Ben Johnson Named Chicago Bears Head Coach: A New Era

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January 20, 2025

ben-johnson-jared-goff-feat-USATSI_24868617-1024x508 — Photo Cred: Yahoo

Ben Johnson, the acclaimed offensive coordinator of the Detroit Lions, has been appointed as the Chicago Bears next head coach. He is known for his innovative play calls. His hiring signals the beginning of a new chapter for the Bears as they seek to rebuild and reinvigorate their franchise. Johnson’s coaching started University of North Carolina, where he was inspired by his offensive coordinator, John Shoop.

Photo Cred: Newsweek

After completing his college career, Johnson began his coaching career as a graduate assistant for the Boston College Eagles in 2009. Just two years later, in 2011, he was promoted to tight ends coach. His NFL journey began in 2012 with the Miami Dolphins, where he served as an assistant coach, working with quarterbacks, tight ends, and wide receivers. As offensive coordinator for the Lions from 2021 to 2024, Johnson quickly gained a reputation as one of the league’s most forward-thinking and effective playcallers.

Under his leadership, the Lions’ offense became one of the NFL’s most potent units. Detroit finished 2023 with a remarkable 15-2 record, ranking second overall in total offense and No. 1 in points scored. Over his three seasons at the helm, Johnson helped the Lions average 28.2 points per game from 2022 to 2024 — the highest in the league during that period. The team’s offensive success stands in stark contrast to the Bears’ recent struggles on that side of the ball. For context, the Lions scored at least 26 points per game in each of Johnson’s three seasons as offensive coordinator.

In comparison, the Bears have reached that mark only four times in franchise history — in 1985, 2006, 2013, and 2018 — all during the Super Bowl era. The Bear’s offensive struggles have been a major factor in their ongoing difficulties. In 2024, the team finished with a 5-12 record, placing them last in the NFC North standings. Since legendary coach George Halas retired after the 1967 season, only one of the Bears’ last 12 full-time head coaches have finished his first season with a winning record. The exception was Matt Nagy, who led Chicago to a 12-4 finish and an NFC North title in 2018.

Photo Cred: NBC

With his proven track record of success and reputation for developing high-scoring offenses, Johnson offers the Bears hope for a brighter future. His arrival represents a fresh, dynamic approach to an offense in need of revitalization. As he takes the helm in Chicago, Johnson will have the opportunity to shape the Bears’ future, leading them back to contention in the NFC North and beyond.

Can Syracuse Turn Around Thier Season?

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Michael DiNatale

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January 20, 2025

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MM25JFKECNHWBMNJ4EHYUS2COA — Photo Cred: CUSE.com

The Syracuse Orange mounted a thrilling comeback from a 17-point deficit in the first half to defeat the Fighting Irish 77-69. Both teams entered this game desperate for a win to stay in contention in the ACC. Notre Dame dominated the first half, slowing Syracuse’s offense at every turn, and it appeared the game might get out of hand early. However, the Cardiac Cuse surged in the second half, led by head coach Adrian Autry.

Photo Cred: Syracuse

Autry, who has faced criticism for the team’s struggles this season, demonstrated his willingness to stick with a hot lineup, which paid off today. He relied heavily on two veterans—guard JJ Starling and center Eddie Lampkin—to lead the charge. Junior guard Kyle Cuff Jr. also came off the bench to contribute 13 much-needed points. Lampkin’s energy was especially evident in the second half, where his physicality and speed took over the game.

The graduate student scored 13 points, grabbed 11 rebounds, and dished out four assists. He was instrumental in the pick-and-roll, both scoring and setting up teammates. Lampkin combined power and finesse to break down the Fighting Irish defense and help Syracuse take control. JJ Starling had a standout performance, logging 21 points against his former team.

While he struggled in the first half, he found his rhythm in the second, finishing 7-of-20 from the field. Starling’s playmaking was critical in orchestrating the Syracuse offense, running both point guard and shooting guard positions. His chemistry with Lampkin in the pick-and-roll was particularly effective in the paint. Late in the game, Syracuse led 69-65 with just over two minutes remaining.

Notre Dame didn’t regain possession until only 1:11 remained on the clock. During that stretch, Syracuse’s persistence on the offensive boards was evident, grabbing five offensive rebounds. Lampkin drew a foul during the sequence, though he missed both free throws. Despite not scoring during the possession, the Orange maintained possession for over a minute during crunch time. This grit and determination ultimately allowed Syracuse to hold off the Fighting Irish and secure the win.

The Cardiac Cuse showed their trademark resilience once again. Syracuse will continue, hoping to secure a crucial Quad 1 win. The Tigers will present one of the toughest challenges of the season. While Autry and the Orange showed their tenacity against Notre Dame, they have a lot of work ahead if they want to stay in the ACC race.

Oakland Set to Face Adrian in Key MCHC East Matchup

College

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Noah Stalker

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January 19, 2025

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The Golden Grizzlies are coming off a well-timed two-week break, during which they posted a solid record of 1-0-1 in a two-game series against the Michigan State Spartans. This rest has given the team a chance to regroup and refocus as they prepare for the challenges ahead. On the other hand, the Bulldogs will be playing their first game of the new year, which could potentially make them a bit rusty, but they’ll undoubtedly be looking to start the year strong.

Currently, Oakland finds themselves trailing Lawrence Tech in the MCHC East Division standings, and they are eager to close the gap. With a record of 17-2-1-1, the Golden Grizzlies will need to maintain their high level of performance throughout the remainder of the season. To do so, they will rely heavily on their top players to continue producing at a high level. Brandon Danou has been Oakland’s offensive leader this season, and his incredible play has been a major factor in the team’s success.

With a remarkable 24 goals and 48 points, Danou currently leads the division in both categories. His hot streak shows no signs of slowing down, as he is currently riding a five-game goal streak, including three goals in the recent series against Michigan State. He will undoubtedly be a key player to watch in this matchup. Another key figure in Oakland’s offense is Connor Crawford, who has been a consistent contributor all season.

He recently put on a show in their last game, recording a hat trick in the series finale against Michigan State. Crawford’s ability to find the back of the net could prove crucial in this upcoming game, and the Golden Grizzlies will be hoping he can maintain his momentum. On the other side, Adrian will need to find ways to break through Oakland’s defense if they hope to keep pace in this matchup.

The Bulldogs have struggled to generate offense this season, as no player on their roster has scored more than nine goals. James Schmidt leads the team in scoring with nine goals, but Adrian will need more from their top players to have any chance against a high-powered team like Oakland. The rest of the season seems promising to be an exciting one, with Oakland looking to make a statement in the new year.

Finalists Announced for the 14th Annual NFL Salute to Service Award Presented by USAA

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Stephen Patrick

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January 19, 2025

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NEW YORK – Jan. 16, 2025 – The NFL and USAA, an official NFL Salute to Service partner, announced Minnesota Vikings running back Aaron Jones, San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle and Los Angeles Chargers defensive end Morgan Fox as finalists for the 14th annual Salute to Service Award presented by USAA.

The Salute to Service Award is part of the NFL and USAA’s year-round commitment to recognize and honor the military and veteran community. Through the Salute to Service initiative, the NFL and its teams come together to honor, empower and connect with service members, veterans and their families. The 32 award nominees from each team were announced in November and consisted of active and retired players, coaches and team executives and personnel who best demonstrated support for the military community.

The Salute to Service Award recipient will be announced in February and recognized at NFL Honors presented by Invisalign on Thursday, Feb. 6, 2025.

“Our three finalists for the 2024 Salute to Service Award are all deserving of recognition for their long-standing and unwavering commitment to honoring the military community,” said USAA Senior Vice President and head of Military Affairs, Major General (Ret.) John Richardson. “We commend Aaron Jones, George Kittle and Morgan Fox for continually using their platforms as NFL players to advance and enrich the lives of our military service members and their families, putting service to others above themselves.”

USAA will contribute $25,000 in the award recipient’s honor to the official aid societies representing each of the military branches. The NFL Foundation will match that donation, which will go directly to the recipient’s military charity of choice. The award recipient will also receive a specially designed military challenge coin which is presented to members of the military community to demonstrate membership, recognize excellence or boost morale.

Fans were once again able to vote for their favorite nominees, and the finalists were ultimately decided based on a consensus fan vote, an NFL internal committee and USAA. Nominees were also evaluated on the positive impact of their efforts to support the military community, the type of service conducted, the thoroughness of their support and their level of commitment.

A panel of judges, consisting of representatives from the U.S. military community, the NFL and USAA, will determine the Salute to Service Award recipient, and includes Chad Hennings, Air Force Academy graduate and three-time Super Bowl champion; Jim Mora, Sr., Marine Corps veteran and former NFL head coach; Lenny Bandy, U.S. Marine Corps veteran and NFL Vice President of Security; Major General (Ret.) John Richardson, USAA Senior Vice President and head of Military Affairs, and Joe Cardona, New England Patriots long snapper, U.S. Naval Reservist and 2023 Salute to Service Award recipient.

Since 2011, USAA has used its sponsorship to honor and appreciate service members, veterans and their families by creating unique opportunities that bring the military community and the NFL closer together.

To learn more about the Salute to Service Award presented by USAA, please visit NFL.com/Salute. Below is an overview of the three finalists.

Aaron Jones, Sr., Minnesota Vikings running back
Aaron Jones, Sr., embodies each tenant of the NFL’s Salute to Service initiative to honor, empower and connect service members, veterans and their families. Aaron honors current and former U.S. Military service members including his late father, Alvin Jones, Sr., who served 29 years in the U.S. Army and mother, Vurgess, who served 27 years in the U.S. Army — both are retired as sergeants major. Aaron honors his older brother, Xavier, who serves in the U.S. Air Force through his A&A All the Way Foundation. Founded in 2020 by Aaron and his twin brother Alvin, Jr., the nonprofit emphasizes the support of youth in military families. Aaron’s commitment to the military community connects families and young people who have experienced the difficulties of deployment, regular change and relocation and the uncertainties that often accompany military life. Aaron calls on his own childhood experience, when his parents were deployed to Iraq, and he saw firsthand the sacrifices made to serve one’s country. A&A All the Way holds an annual gala to raise money that empowers military families by providing them with necessary resources and care. Aaron and his family have donated their own time and resources to provide military families with joy-filled experiences, such as trips to the zoo or movie nights. Aaron over the years has participated in Huddle for Heroes events, writing letters to active-duty military members, and meet-and-greets for T.A.P.S. families who have lost loved ones from the military or veteran community. Less than two months after signing with Minnesota in free agency, Aaron took part in a visit to the local United Heroes League and connected with young people and military members.

George Kittle, San Francisco 49ers tight end
George Kittle’s connection is personal, rooted in family with his Uncle Pat and Grandfather Carl among loved ones who’ve served. Kittle hosts military and frontline heroes at every game, donating over 400 tickets in six years. Founding Hidden Pearls Podcast (HPP) in 2020, Kittle and his family amplify community stories, including those of nearly 60 veterans. Inspired by these stories, he and his family created an app offering free mental health resources to veterans, including the meditative practices he uses while playing. Kittle has donated over $250,000 to military nonprofits and further highlighted military organizations through My Cause My Cleats. Kittle’s connection with service members goes beyond their introduction. After gifting the family of fallen Army soldier SGT Martin LaMar Super Bowl tickets, Kittle continues to host them at training camp and keeps SGT LaMar’s Purple Heart in his locker. Army veteran Chris Kleinsorge handed a uniform he wore in Afghanistan to Kittle’s wife, Claire, during an away game on behalf of all military veterans. Understanding the uniform’s importance, Kittle flew Kleinsorge and his wife to a 49ers home game. These are just two of countless stories that exemplify Kittle’s dedication to the military community. Kittle is an active participant in the team’s Salute to Service programming and goes the extra mile to create opportunities to uplift the military community.

Morgan Fox, Los Angeles Chargers defensive end
Chargers’ defensive lineman Morgan Fox has dedicated his philanthropic efforts to serving veteran and active-duty military communities. Morgan grew up in the military community and experienced the sacrifice of service members and their families first-hand. During the offseason, the team traveled to U.S. Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, where Morgan addressed the military members and their families in attendance prior to practice. This November, Morgan will host a chalk talk with 100 warriors from the nonprofit Wounded Warrior Project, speaking on the challenges of overcoming adversity. Morgan participated in the Chargers Community Corner program to provide 100 club level game tickets to military and Veteran focused nonprofits. He celebrated the grand re-opening of the U.S. Vets Long Beach dining hall renovation and served meals to over 300 veterans. For the past two seasons, he has hosted warriors from the Wounded Warrior Project at the Chargers practice facility, supported our nation’s fallen heroes through the nonprofit Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, and talked about the parallels between elite athletes and veterans with the Pat Tillman Foundation. During Salute to Service month over the past two years, Morgan has created his own merchandise with all proceeds going to the Headstrong Project and the Wounded Warrior Project. On the field, Morgan has raised awareness and funds through My Cause My Cleats for nonprofit organizations including Wounded Warrior Project, the Headstrong Project, Merging Vets and Players, One Tribe Foundation and War Heroes on Water. These organizations support and assist veterans in overcoming mental and emotional struggles that they face after their service has ended. Morgan ongoing support of our nation’s military and veterans has never wavered and will continue far beyond his playing career.

Media Contact:
A’Maiya Allen, NFL, AMaiya.Allen@nfl.com
Christian Bove, USAA, Christian.Bove@usaa.com

For more from NFL Communications, visit media.nfl.com

Ohio State Punches Ticket to the National Championship

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Nathan Boggs

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January 14, 2025

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CFP-Cotton-Bowl-Football-25 — Photo Cred: Toledo Blade

After a devastating loss to their archrivals, Michigan, the Buckeyes were forced to do some soul-searching. With fans calling for Ryan Day’s firing after failing with a “20-million-dollar roster,” the team found itself with its back against the wall. But with one last opportunity to salvage the season through the expanded college football playoffs, Ohio State wasn’t about to squander it. After dominating the first two rounds of the playoffs—defeating Tennessee and avenging their earlier loss to Oregon—the Buckeyes now faced Texas in the Cotton Bowl for a spot in the National Championship.

Photo Cred: Dispatch

The stage was set for an all-time classic. Jerry’s World was filled with scarlet, though mostly burnt orange, for the 89th Cotton Bowl. Texas received the opening kickoff but was quickly stopped in Ohio State territory on a fourth down. The Buckeyes, like every opening drive in these playoffs, started strong, taking the ball downfield with a balanced mix of run and pass. The drive culminated in a 9-yard touchdown run by Quinshon Judkins, giving Ohio State an early 7-0 lead. Following that early score, it was mostly a punt-fest for the remainder of the first half.

Ohio State’s defense kept Quinn Ewers and the Texas offense in check, while Ohio State’s offense struggled with penalties and getting off schedule. Texas couldn’t get anything going until just before halftime, when Ewers connected with Jaydon Blue on an 18-yard pass to tie the game at 7. However, there were still 29 seconds left on the clock—a small window, but Ohio State made the most of it. On the very first play of their ensuing drive, Chip Kelly called a perfectly executed screen pass for TreVeyon Henderson.

Photo Cred: Yahoo Sports

Henderson followed his lead blockers, made some crucial cuts, and burst through the Texas defense, taking the pass 75 yards for a touchdown to reclaim the lead before halftime. After a few defensive stops by both teams, Texas managed to tie the game again at 14-14 when Ewers found Blue once more, this time on a 26-yard pass, mirroring their earlier connection. With the game knotted at 14 entering the fourth quarter, Ohio State began their final drive, looking to Will Howard and the passing game.

Howard and his receivers came through, converting key third and fourth downs to extend the drive and eat up clock. Howard completed 7 of 9 passes on the drive and even had an 18-yard run on a crucial fourth down. The drive culminated with Quinshon Judkins’ second touchdown of the game—a 1-yard run that put Ohio State back in front, 21-14. Texas had about seven minutes left to answer, and they started moving the ball downfield, with Ewers connecting on some deep passes. The Longhorns found themselves with a first-and-goal at the Ohio State 1-yard line.

On first down, the Buckeyes stuffed an inside run to keep the ball at the 1-yard line. On second down, Texas tried an outside pitch, but Ohio State’s star safeties, Caleb Downs and Lathan Ransom, combined for a loss of 7 yards. This set up a third-and-goal from the 8-yard line, where Jack Sawyer deflected Ewers’ pass attempt, setting up a decisive fourth-and-goal with just 2 minutes remaining. On fourth down, Ewers dropped back to pass, rolled to his left, but couldn’t escape Jack Sawyer, who strip-sacked Ewers.

Photo Cred: Texas Public Radio

Sawyer picked up his own forced fumble and raced down the Ohio State sideline for a game-sealing scoop-and-score. The Buckeyes’ fans erupted in celebration, while Texas was left in disappointment. Sawyer’s long run was a flashback to Ezekiel Elliott’s iconic run against Alabama in the 2015 College Football Playoffs. With that touchdown, Jack Sawyer punched Ohio State’s ticket to the National Championship.

Ohio State now faces a familiar foe in Notre Dame. The Buckeyes and Irish have squared off in home-and-home matchups over the past two seasons, with Ohio State winning both games. Last season’s game ended with Ohio State scoring on the final play to win in South Bend. Notre Dame’s head coach, Marcus Freeman, is also familiar with Ohio State, having been a former player and coach for the program.

Ohio State will have its hands full, as Notre Dame has turned their season around after an early loss to Northern Illinois. Since then, the Irish have found various ways to win and have been on a roll in these playoffs. On the other hand, Ohio State has also turned things around with an offensive explosion.

NFL Family Contributes $5 Million to Los Angeles Wildfire Relief Efforts

By

Stephen Patrick

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January 14, 2025

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chiefs-taylor-swift-edits — Photo Cred: A to Z sports

LOS ANGELES – January 10, 2025 – The NFL family is providing $5 million to support communities affected by the wildfires in the greater Los Angeles region. Led by individual contributions from clubs and ownership groups from the Los Angeles Chargers, Los Angeles Rams, Minnesota Vikings, Houston Texans and NFL Foundation, these funds will deliver vital resources to local organizations supporting those affected by the wildfires.

“We are heartbroken over the devastating losses experienced by so many in the Los Angeles area and inspired by the heroism of first responders and residents who have supported their neighbors,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. “The NFL family is committed to working with the Los Angeles Chargers and Los Angeles Rams to support their local communities in their time of need.”

The Los Angeles Rams are supporting two organizations working around the clock to help keep the Los Angeles community safe during this tragic time: the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation, benefitting both County and City Fire Departments, and American Red Cross. The Kroenke Family – through their Kroenke Family Foundation and on behalf of their sports organizations and business entities – will donate $1 million benefitting the LAFD Foundation.

“On behalf of our family and the Los Angeles Rams, our thoughts are with everyone affected by the unfathomable fires and destruction. We are beyond grateful for the tireless efforts of our first responders who continue to protect our community as well as individuals who continue to help our neighbors in need. We know there are both immediate and long-term needs and our family and the Rams are committed to doing our part to support recovery efforts now and into the months and years ahead,” said the Kroenke Family.

The Los Angeles Chargers are furthering their targeted funding of American Red Cross relief efforts, the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation, Team Rubicon and several pet rescue organizations across the region sheltering animals displaced by the wildfires.

“The displays of heroism from first responders and residents alike in the face of these devastating wildfires has been remarkable,” said Chargers Owner and Chairman of the Board Dean Spanos. “Our hearts are with the tens of thousands of Angelenos who have been displaced, the firefighters of the LAFD and departments from around the state who have tirelessly fought to prevent loss of life and property, the police officers keeping us safe and informed, and all those among us who have stepped up to assist one another in this incredible time of need.”

In addition, on Saturday afternoon and Monday night, Los Angeles Chargers and Rams players, coaches and staff will wear custom, team-specific LAFD hats and shirts. These team-specific LAFD hats and shirts will be available for retail purchase, with proceeds from Chargers apparel supporting the LAFD Foundation and proceeds from Rams apparel supporting the LAFD Foundation and American Red Cross. Game-worn jerseys and select game-used footballs from both Wild Card games will be auctioned off on NFL Auction with proceeds going to the support the American Red Cross.

Further, the 50% of the Rams 50/50 Raffle from Monday’s game that benefits the Los Angeles Rams Foundation will be donated to the LAFD Foundation and American Red Cross.

The Minnesota Vikings and the Wilf Family Foundations are providing a matching $1 million contribution to support on-the-ground relief efforts in communities affected by the California wildfires. The Houston Texans are also donating $1 million to support relief efforts and first responders in the greater Los Angeles region.

The NFL Foundation, the league’s philanthropic arm, is complementing these club contributions with a matching $1 million donation to support relief efforts. The NFL is also partnering with the American Red Cross to support the organization’s efforts in providing shelter, food, and supplies to people affected by the wildfires. Visit redcross.org/NFL to donate and support the organization’s lifesaving efforts.

About NFL Foundation

The National Football League Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of those touched by the game of football – from players at all levels to communities across the country. The NFL Foundation and its members, the 32 NFL clubs, support the health, safety and wellness of athletes, youth football, and the communities that support our game. Over the past 50 years, the NFL Foundation has become one of the leading philanthropic entities in America, contributing to NFL team communities, national and international disaster relief efforts, and societal issues. For more information on the NFL Foundation, visit: www.NFLFoundation.org.

Media Contact

Ian Martin, Ian.Martin@nfl.com

For more from NFL Communications, visit media.nfl.com

New York Jets, Cleveland Browns and Jacksonville Jaguars to Play in 2025 NFL London Games

By

Stephen Patrick

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January 13, 2025

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LONDON — Jan. 10, 2025 — The National Football League today announced the designated teams set to play in London as part of the 2025 NFL International Games.

The New York Jets, Cleveland Browns and Jacksonville Jaguars will each play international games in London during the 2025 regular season.

Tottenham Hotspur Stadium — the only purpose-built NFL stadium outside of the U.S. — will host games featuring both the Jets and the Browns, while the Jaguars will return to Wembley Stadium as part of their multi-year commitment to playing a game in the U.K., in what will be their 14^th game in the capital.

“We look forward to welcoming the Jets, Browns and Jaguars to London as part of the 2025 NFL International Games,” said NFL U.K. & Ireland General Manager Henry Hodgson. “This season will see us surpass 40 regular season games in the capital, a testament to the role the U.K. has played in growing the game globally. The London games are a continued catalyst for year-round fan engagement and we are focused on serving our 15 million fans, reaching new communities and driving growth in flag football participation, which now sees over 100,000 young people play the game.”

“We are excited to bring the unique and entertaining atmosphere of a New York Jets home game to London as part of the 2025 NFL International Games,” said New York Jets President Hymie Elhai. “It is another great opportunity for our organization to build upon our brand and fandom in the U.K. which we have enjoyed cultivating the last few years. The success of the NFL’s international games speaks directly to the sport’s increasing global reach, and we are proud to continue as ambassadors of the game.”

“We’re thrilled to be named a designated team for the 2025 NFL London Games, making our second international trip as a club and our first time playing at the incredible Tottenham Hotspur Stadium,” said Haslam Sports Group COO David Jenkins. “We look forward to playing in front of our fans in the U.K. this upcoming season and to help continue to grow both the Browns and the NFL’s global popularity.”

“We are once again delighted that we will be back in London later this year for our 14^th game in the capital and are grateful for our extended partnership with the Football Association that makes it possible to play another home game at Wembley Stadium, one of the world’s most iconic stadiums and the Jaguars’ home away from home,” said Jacksonville Jaguars Owner Shad Khan. “The game is the pinnacle of the amazing work we do every day at a grassroots level and I’m proud that our JagTag flag football program reached over 100,000 young people in 2024, helping to grow the sport of American football outside the U.S.”

The Jets and the Jaguars hold marketing rights in the U.K., as part of the league’s Global Markets Program — an initiative that awards NFL clubs international marketing rights to build brand awareness and fandom beyond the U.S., through fan engagement, events and commercial opportunities.

Each team’s opponent, along with the game dates and kickoff times will be announced when the full 2025 schedule is revealed this spring.

Beginning in 2025, the NFL can schedule up to eight league-operated regular season games internationally.

The NFL will also play regular season games in Madrid, Spain at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home to Real Madrid C.F., and in Berlin, Germany at the Olympic Stadium.

Fifty-five regular season NFL games have been played around the world throughout the league’s history, with London hosting 39 of those games to date.

The Jets have played four regular season games internationally, including London (three) and Toronto (one). The Browns have also played in one regular season game in London.

Fans can register for information around the 2025 NFL London games here: nfl.com/london.

For more from NFL Communications, visit media.nfl.com

Connor Crawford’s Hat Trick Lifts Oakland Past MSU

Hockey

By

Noah Stalker

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January 13, 2025

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Connor Crawford and the Oakland Golden Grizzlies took care of business in East Lansing today, defeating the Michigan State Spartans 7-4 in an exciting matchup. The Golden Grizzlies came out strong and controlled much of the game, despite a late push from Michigan State. Oakland wasted no time establishing their presence on the ice, jumping out to a 2-0 lead late in the first period. Crawford, who was central to the team’s success, played a key role in getting his team on the board.

Brandon Danou, the team’s leading scorer, also added a goal to put the Golden Grizzlies firmly in control early on. As the second period began, Oakland continued to apply pressure, with Jack Abbo scoring a goal to extend the lead to 3-0, leaving the Spartans with an uphill battle. However, Michigan State wasn’t about to roll over. They responded with a flurry of offense, scoring three unanswered goals to tie the game. Two of those goals came on the power play, highlighting the Spartans’ ability to capitalize on their opportunities with the man advantage.

Jack Ceccacci was instrumental in Michigan State’s comeback, scoring two of the three goals to help even the score at 3-3. Just when it seemed like the Spartans might take control, Oakland’s Julius Sainte-Marie found the back of the net in the final minutes of the second period, putting the Golden Grizzlies back on top 4-3. Once the third period began, Oakland put the game out of reach. Danou, once again stepping up as a key offensive contributor, scored a power-play goal to increase Oakland’s lead to two.

Photo Cred: Noah Stalker

The Spartans briefly responded with a goal from Joe Fracessi, but it wasn’t enough to maintain any momentum. With the game winding down, Crawford put the finishing touches on his standout performance, scoring his second goal of the game to restore the Golden Grizzlies’ two-goal advantage. He then completed his hat trick with an empty-net goal to seal the victory and give Oakland the 7-4 win.

The victory pushes Oakland’s record to 17-2-1-1 on the season, allowing them to stay firmly in the hunt in the MCHC East division. Michigan State, meanwhile, falls to 11-6-1-1, as their hopes of a comeback were dashed by Oakland’s efficient offense and defensive resilience. Looking ahead, the Golden Grizzlies will face off against the Adrian Bulldogs on January 24th at the Birmingham Ice Arena in Birmingham, Michigan. Meanwhile, the Spartans will look to bounce back as they travel to Ft. Myers, Florida, to take on Florida Gulf Coast on January 19th.

Are the Eagles Ready for a Super Bowl Run?

By

Michael DiNatale

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January 13, 2025

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On the opening kickoff, Green Bay fumbled the ball, allowing the Eagles to jump ahead early. Jalen Hurts connected with Jahan Dotson in the back of the end zone for an 11-yard touchdown. It seemed like the Eagles had seized control and would dominate throughout the game, but the offense wasn’t particularly sharp. It was the play of Philadelphia’s No. 1-ranked defense that ultimately carried them to victory.

Photo Cred: USA Today

Despite the win, the Eagles were outgained by 12 yards. Jalen Hurts showed clear signs of rust, starting strong but then going 0 for 7 after completing his first six passes. The offense struggled to move the ball through the air. Though Saquon Barkley rushed for 119 yards, there were stretches where Philadelphia couldn’t find a rhythm on offense. Much of that was due to Green Bay’s strong defense, which successfully contained star wide receiver A.J. Brown to just one catch for 10 yards. Despite the offensive struggles, the Eagles’ defense played elite-level football, making it unnecessary for the offense to carry the load.

Vic Fangio’s defense, ranked No. 1 in the regular season, showcased exactly why they earned that distinction. The Packers, already hampered by offensive injuries, faced even more challenges. The Eagles forced four turnovers, three of which came from their defense. Cornerback Darius Slay grabbed the first interception when the Packers attempted a deep shot to wide receiver Dontayvion Wicks. Linebacker Zack Baun made a key interception of Jordan Love with 45 seconds remaining in the first half. Rookie cornerback Quinyon Mitchell sealed the game with an interception in the end zone at the two-minute warning.

The Eagles’ defense led the way, not allowing a slow offensive night to cost them the game. Philadelphia has leaned on its defense all season, allowing the offense to play a more complementary role, relying on the run game and short-to-medium passes to move the ball. Despite weapons like A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, there weren’t many explosive plays in this Wild Card matchup. It will be interesting to see whether Offensive Coordinator Kellen Moore sticks with the run game or looks to add more explosive elements to the offense as the postseason progresses.

In their 22-10 win against the Green Bay Packers, Philadelphia demonstrated just how dynamic their defense can be—even when the offense isn’t clicking. The Packers are a solid football team, but if the Eagles are to win on the road against the Detroit Lions, their offense will need to sharpen up compared to what was displayed on Sunday night.

Mike Vrabel Named New England Patriots New Head Coach

By

Stephen Patrick

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January 12, 2025

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250111-Mike-Vrabel-aa-536-c4f250 — Photo Cred: Fox

Mike Vrabel, a former linebacker for the New England Patriots and head coach for the Tennessee Titans, has been named the Patriots’ new head coach. Vrabel’s NFL career began in 2001 when he was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers but was soon traded to the New England Patriots He takes over from Jerod Mayo, who was let go following a 4-13 season. Many ponder why the Patriots didn’t make the hire last year. It seems unfair to Mayo. The Patriots were in a complete rebuild with a rookie QB and lackluster roster. Vrabel was a key figure in the Patriots’ defense during their Super Bowl-winning years in the early 2000s. He brings a wealth of experience both as a player and a coach.

Photo Cred: ESPN

Vrabel was known for his leadership and big play ability. Vrabel amassed 740 tackles, 57 sacks, 11 interceptions, and 10 forced fumbles. On offense he recorded 10 receptions and 10 receiving touchdowns, showcasing his unique two-way skills. After retiring 2010, Vrabel transition to coaching.

He first served as linebackers coach for the Houston Texans. Teams quickly recognized his potential and in 2018 he hired as the head coach of the Tennessee Titans. Vrabel had a 54-45 record and a 2-3 playoff record. The brightest spot was in 2019 when the Titans went to the AFC Championship Game. In the 2020 playoffs the Titians bet the top-seeded Baltimore Ravens. He was named the NFL Coach of the Year after leading the Titans to the #1 seed.

Photo Cred: Yahoo

Now, Vrabel returns to New England, where he was part of the foundation of the Patriots’ championship culture under head coach Bill Belichick. With his deep understanding of the organization and proven track record as a head coach, Vrabel is well-positioned to lead the Patriots back to prominence. His hiring marks a new era for New England, which is looking to rebuild after a difficult stretch under Mayo. Vrabel’s reputation as a tough, no-nonsense leader should resonate well with both players and fans alike, providing the team with the leadership and direction it needs to regain its competitive edge.

Vrabel will be working with a young QB. Drake Maye didn’t get his first start until Week 6, a questionable decision that likely played a role in the Patriots parting ways with their one-and-done head coach, Jerod Mayo. After taking over, he faced a tough road, losing nine of his 11 games. On the season, Drake Maye posted 2,276 passing yards, 15 passing touchdowns, 421 rushing yards, and two rushing touchdowns. Despite his individual stats, the team’s struggles were too much to overcome. Vrabel helped turn Ryan Tannehill into a high-quality starter. Can he do the same in New England?

Photo Cred: Fox

With his background as both a player and a coach, Vrabel brings a unique perspective to place the team in championship contention. Stepping into the head coach role, fans are optimistic. As a new chapter unfolds for the franchise, all attention will be on Vrabel as he works to return the Patriots to their rightful position among the NFL’s top teams.

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