Rosters Announced For 2025 Pro Bowl Games

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January 2, 2025

NEW YORK — Jan. 2, 2025 — The NFL today announced the AFC and NFC rosters for the 2025 Pro Bowl Games.

Player selections for the AFC and NFC rosters for the Pro Bowl Games were determined by the consensus votes of fans, players and coaches, with each group’s vote counting as one-third toward determining the all-star players. The NFL is the only sports league that combines voting by fans, coaches and players to determine its all-star teams. NFL players and coaches voted on Friday, Dec. 27.

For the second consecutive year, the NFL will return to Orlando to celebrate the league’s best players at the 2025 Pro Bowl Games presented by Verizon. As in past years, the Pro Bowl Games provides fans with an unmatched opportunity to vote for their favorite players to compete in a multi-day AFC versus NFC competition, featuring Pro Bowl Skills and culminating in an action-packed flag football game, led by head coaches Peyton and Eli Manning.

The 2025 Pro Bowl Games, hosted in partnership with Florida Citrus Sports, Orange County, and the City of Orlando, on Sunday, Feb. 2 promises fans a day filled with thrilling AFC versus NFC action. On Sunday, ticketholders will experience the league’s 88 biggest stars go head-to-head in new and fan-favorite competitions, face-off in an epic flag football game, and enjoy a variety of family friendly activities, giveaways, and interactive experiences. Sunday’s events will also be televised from 3-6 p.m. ET on ESPN and ABC.

In addition to Sunday’s event, ESPN will air the Pro Bowl Skills Show live on Thursday, Jan. 30, from 7-8:30 p.m. ET. This made-for-TV event will feature the NFL’s top players as they take on unique competitions designed to showcase their competitiveness on-and-off the field. Announced in December, the 2025 Pro Bowl Games presented by Verizon will combine fresh and fan-favorite skills, with cumulative scoring from Thursday’s skills contests building up to the highly anticipated flag football matchup on Sunday. For more information on the Pro Bowl Games, visit NFL.com/pro-bowl-games/event-info/.

On Location, the official hospitality partner of the NFL, will offer guests elevated hospitality packages for a one-of-a-kind experience at the 2025 Pro Bowl Games, including field access throughout the game, access to closed practice sessions, player introductions and premium seating to the game. Fans interested in tickets and hospitality packages can visit On Location’s website at OnLocationExp.com/probowl.

Twenty-eight teams had at least one player selected to the 2025 Pro Bowl Games roster and 22 clubs had multiple players chosen as all-stars. The Baltimore Ravens led all teams with nine Pro Bowl selections while the Detroit Lions (seven players), Minnesota Vikings (six), Philadelphia Eagles (six), Dallas Cowboys (five) and Kansas City Chiefs (five) each placed at least five players on the Pro Bowl roster.

The AFC quarterbacks are:

Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills (third selection), who has 41 touchdowns (28 passing, 12 rushing, one receiving) this season and became the first player in NFL history with at least 25 touchdown passes and 10 rushing touchdowns in multiple career seasons.
Joe Burrow of the Cincinnati Bengals (third selection), who leads the NFL in passing yards (4,641) and touchdown passes (42) entering Week 18 and became the first player in NFL history with at least 250 passing yards and three touchdown passes in eight consecutive games.
Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens (fourth selection), who has 4,807 yards (3,955 passing, 852 rushing) and 43 touchdowns (39 passing, four rushing) and a league-leading 121.6 passer rating entering Week 18 and became the first quarterback in NFL history with at least 500 rushing yards in seven consecutive seasons and the all-time leading rusher among quarterbacks (6,110 rushing yards entering Week 18).

The NFC quarterbacks are:

Jayden Daniels of the Washington Commanders (first selection), who became the fourth rookie quarterback in NFL history with at least 30 combined passing and rushing touchdowns and set the record for the most rushing yards by a rookie quarterback in NFL history (864 rushing yards entering Week 18).
Sam Darnold of the Minnesota Vikings (first selection), who ranks fourth in the NFL in passing yards (career-high 4,153) and fifth in touchdown passes (career-high 35) and became the first starting quarterback in NFL history to record 14 wins in his first season with a team.
Jared Goff of the Detroit Lions (fourth selection), who ranks second in the league in passer rating (113.6) and passing yards (4,398) and fourth in touchdown passes (36) and became the first player with at least 275 passing yards, two touchdown passes and a passer rating of 135-or-higher in five games within a single season in NFL history.

Jayden Daniels is the fourth rookie quarterback since 1970 to be selected to the initial Pro Bowl roster, along with Robert Griffin III (2012 season), Pro Football Hall of Famer Dan Marino (1983 season) and Dak Prescott (2016 season).

Kansas City’s Travis Kelce was chosen to his 10th Pro Bowl, trailing only Pro Football Hall of Famer Tony Gonzalez (14) and Jason Witten (11) for the most Pro Bowl selections among tight ends all-time.

San Francisco’s Kyle Juszczyk was selected to his ninth Pro Bowl, the most ever by a fullback.

Indianapolis’ Quenton Nelson is the third offensive lineman to be selected to the Pro Bowl in each of his first seven career seasons since 1970, joining Pro Football Hall of Famer Joe Thomas (first 10 seasons) and Richmond Webb (first seven).

Cincinnati’s Ja’Marr Chase is the fourth wide receiver to be selected to the Pro Bowl in each of his first four seasons since 1970, joining Tyreek Hill (first eight seasons), A.J. Green (first seven) and Isaac Curtis (first four).

Dallas’ Micah Parsons is the first defensive player to be named to the Pro Bowl in each of his first four career seasons since Aaron Donald (first 10 seasons from 2014-23).

Twenty-four of the players selected to the Pro Bowl today are first-time all-stars, including rookies Brock Bowers (Las Vegas), Jayden Daniels (Washington) and Jared Verse (Los Angeles Rams).

2025 PRO BOWL GAMES PLAYERS BY POSITION

(*First-time Pro Bowl selection; Bold/Italic: Starter)

AFC

OFFENSE (21)

	QUARTERBACKS (3)		TIGHT ENDS (2)
	*Josh Allen, Buffalo*	*	*Brock Bowers, Las Vegas*
	Joe Burrow, Cincinnati		Travis Kelce, Kansas City
	Lamar Jackson, Baltimore
			TACKLES (3)
	WIDE RECEIVERS (4)		*Dion Dawkins, Buffalo*
	*Ja’Marr Chase, Cincinnati*		Rayshawn Slater, Los Angeles Chargers
*	Nico Collins, Houston		*Laremy Tunsil, Houston*
*	Zay Flowers, Baltimore
*	*Jerry Jeudy, Cleveland*		GUARDS (3)
			*Quenton Nelson, Indianapolis*
	RUNNING BACKS (3)		Trey Smith, Kansas City
	*Derrick Henry, Baltimore*		*Joe Thuney, Kansas City*
	Joe Mixon, Houston
	Jonathan Taylor, Indianapolis		CENTERS (2)
			*Creed Humphrey, Kansas City*
	FULLBACK (1)		Tyler Linderbaum, Baltimore
	*Patrick Ricard, Baltimore*

DEFENSE (18)

DEFENSIVE ENDS (3)		INSIDE/MIDDLE LINEBACKERS (2)
Maxx Crosby, Las Vegas	*	Zaire Franklin, Indianapolis
*Myles Garrett, Cleveland*		*Roquan Smith, Baltimore*
*Trey Hendrickson, Cincinnati*

Bryce James Commits to Arizona

College

By

Stephen Patrick

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January 1, 2025

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Bryce James, the youngest son of NBA icon LeBron James, is an emerging basketball talent who currently plays as a shooting guard for Sierra Canyon High School in California. A three-star recruit in the class of 2025, as ranked by Rivals, Bryce is steadily carving out his own path in the world of basketball. Despite his father’s legendary status, Bryce is already building a reputation of his own. He has visited several prestigious programs during his recruitment process, including USC, where his older brother Bronny James played for a season, and Notre Dame, where he explored his options, this fall.

Photo Cred: LA Times

During the summer, Bryce demonstrated his potential while playing on the Nike EYBL circuit with Strive For Greatness, the AAU team founded by LeBron. In 14 games, Bryce averaged 6.9 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 0.9 assists per contest. He played an average of 22 minutes per game and posted shooting percentages of 39.0 percent from the field, 36.8 percent from beyond the three-point line, and 64.0 percent from the free-throw line. These statistics reflect his ability to contribute across multiple facets of the game while continuing to develop his skills. Bryce’s performance on the EYBL circuit is helping him solidify his standing as a promising prospect with plenty of upside.

As for recruitment, Bryce has already received scholarship offers from top-tier programs such as Notre Dame, Ohio State, and Duquesne. With his talent continuing to draw attention, several other schools are keeping a close eye on his development, which promises to be a major storyline over the next few years. Bryce’s high school career has been marked by a series of moves that reflect his pursuit of growth and opportunity. He started his career at Sierra Canyon, a school renowned for producing elite basketball talent.

Photo Cred: ESPN

However, in May 2023, Bryce transferred to Campbell Hall for a short stint, then moved again to Notre Dame High in August. In November 2023, Bryce returned to Sierra Canyon, where he continues to refine his game in preparation for the next step in his basketball journey. At 6 feet 4 inches tall and weighing 165 pounds, Bryce possesses a lean but athletic frame that gives him an advantage on both ends of the court. His combination of size, shooting ability, and basketball IQ makes him a highly intriguing prospect for collegiate programs across the nation.

In addition to his on-court potential, Bryce, like his older brother Bronny, has signed a name, image, and likeness (NIL) deal with Klutch Sports, the agency that has long represented his father, LeBron. This deal highlights the growing attention surrounding Bryce as his basketball career continues to unfold. As Bryce matures as a player, his journey will continue to captivate basketball fans. With a strong foundation and plenty of potential, Bryce James is undeniably a player to watch in the coming years, as he looks to make his mark on the sport just like his father and brother.

Texans WR Tank Dell Out for Season After Knee Injury

By

Serenity Martin

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December 29, 2024

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gettyimages-2190980697 — Photo Cred: ESPN

Houston Texans wide receiver Tank Dell will miss the remainder of the 2024 season after suffering a significant knee injury during a 27-19 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. The injury occurred in the third quarter while Dell made a remarkable catch from rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud in the back of the end zone. Unfortunately, Dell collided with his teammate Jared Wayne during the play, and the impact caused him to fall awkwardly. Dell was immediately carted off the field on a stretcher and rushed to Kansas Medical Center for further evaluation.

Tank Dell injury update: Severity, diagnosis, timeline revealed on gruesome Texans WR injury

Photo Cred: On3.com

After the game, Stroud, visibly shaken by the incident, opened up about his emotions. “It’s not easy to just let it go, especially because that’s my best friend,” Stroud said. “I tried to do the best I could. My teammates helped me up. I appreciate the guys talking to me as I was going through it.” The bond between Stroud and Dell has been evident throughout the season, and the loss of his top receiving target has been a significant blow to both the quarterback and the team.

On Monday, Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans provided an update on Dell’s condition, confirming that the young wide receiver had sustained a torn ACL, a dislocated knee, and additional damage to his MCL, LCL, and meniscus. Ryans acknowledged the gravity of the situation, saying, “This is a tough moment for Tank. Right now, the focus is just on him going through this process—getting the surgery, getting recovered. We’ll deal with next season when it comes.”

Dell, who had emerged as a key weapon in the Texans’ offense, was enjoying a breakout year in his second season. With 51 receptions for 667 yards and three touchdowns, he had become a reliable target for Stroud and a promising piece in the Texans’ rebuilding offense. The injury, which ends his season prematurely, marks another unfortunate setback for the 23-year-old wide receiver, whose promising rookie campaign was also cut short by a fractured fibula.

C.J. Stroud Discusses Tank Dell's Knee Injury, Calls Texans WR His 'Best Friend' | News, Scores, Highlights, Stats, and Rumors | Bleacher Report

Photo Cred: Bleacher Report

As Dell embarks on a long and challenging recovery process, the team and fans will closely monitor his progress. The severity of the injury raises concerns about his availability for the 2025 season, and while the Texans are optimistic about his eventual return, it’s unclear when—or if—he will fully recover in time for next year. The road ahead is uncertain for Dell, but with his strong work ethic and resilience, many believe he will come back stronger.

For now, the Texans’ focus remains on supporting Dell through his recovery and ensuring that he receives the care and resources needed to return to the field in the future. The loss of such a key player, however, leaves a sizable void in the offense, as Dell had become one of the most exciting young receivers in the league.

Jonathan Taylor, Isaiah Pola-Mao & Jason Sanders Named Week 16 AFC Players of the Week

By

Stephen Patrick

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December 29, 2024

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NEW YORK — Dec. 24, 2024 — Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor, Las Vegas safety Isaiah Pola-Mao and Miami Dolphins kicker Jason Sanders are the AFC Offensive, Defensive and Special Teams Players of the Week for Week 16 (December 19, 21-23).

OFFENSE: RB JONATHAN TAYLOR, INDIANAPOLIS COLTS

Taylor led the NFL in Week 16 with 218 rushing yards (7.5 yards per carry) and three rushing touchdowns in the Colts’ 38-30 win over the Titans. He became the sixth player all-time with at least 200 scrimmage yards and two touchdowns in four games within in his first five seasons in NFL history and the fifth player since 1990 with at least 185 rushing yards and a rushing touchdown in four games within his first five career seasons.

This is the third-career Offensive Player of the Week award for Taylor. He joins Pro Football Hall of Famer Edgerrin James (six-time winner) as the only Colts running backs to earn the honor three-or-more times.
- 2021: Week 11
- 2022: Week 10
- 2024: Week 16

Taylor becomes the first former Wisconsin running back and joins Russell Wilson (11-time winner) as the only former Wisconsin players to win Offensive Player of the Week three-or-more times.

DEFENSE: S ISAIAH POLA-MAO, LAS VEGAS RAIDERS

Pola-Mao recorded nine tackles and two forced fumbles in Las Vegas’ 19-14 win over Jacksonville. His two forced fumbles were the most by any player in Week 16. Pola-Mao is the first defensive back to record nine tackles and two forced fumbles in a game since Week 12, 2023 (Josh Metellus).

This is Pola-Mao’s first-career Defensive Player of the Week award, becoming the second Raiders defensive back to earn the honor in the past 10 seasons (2015-24), joining Jeff Heath (Week 10, 2020).

Pola-Mao becomes the fourth former USC defensive back to win Defensive Player of the Week in the past 20 seasons (2005-24), joining Pro Football Hall of Famer Troy Polamalu (six-time winner), Nickell Robey-Coleman (Week 5, 2016) and Terrell Thomas (Week 8, 2013).

SPECIAL TEAMS: K JASON SANDERS, MIAMI DOLPHINS

Sanders converted all five of his field goal attempts, including field goals of 44, 48 and 54 yards, and both of his point-after attempts in the Dolphins’ 29-17 win over the 49ers. His 17 points scored were the most among kickers in Week 16.

This is the sixth-career Special Teams Player of the Week award for Sanders, the third-most Player of the Week awards in Dolphins history, trailing only Pro Football Hall of Famers Dan Marino (18-time winner) and Jason Taylor (seven).
- 2019: Weeks 10, 13
- 2020: Weeks 5, 16
- 2023: Week 16
- 2024: Week 16

Sanders becomes the second former New Mexico player to earn six-or-more Player of the Week awards, joining Pro Football Hall of Famer Brian Urlacher (seven-time winner).

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

2024 College Football Playoff Quarterfinals Preview

By

Arnav Sarkar

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December 29, 2024

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CFP_Bracket_241221_Ohio-State_16x9 — Photo Cred: CFP

Despite electric home environments at Penn State, Notre Dame, Ohio State, and Texas, the first round was mostly disappointing for many college football fans. Each higher seed won by double digits, leading many to reconsider letting teams like Indiana and SMU into the tournament despite their eleven-win seasons on lighter schedules. Even Clemson and Tennessee came up short against the Longhorns and Buckeyes, who bounced back impressively after painful losses in their previous outings. Regardless, the twelve-team playoff is underway, moving to the next stage, where traditional bowl sites will host the quarterfinals. Here’s my preview of each second-round matchup, complete with game picks and what to expect when each team has the ball.

Fiesta Bowl- #6 Penn State vs #3 Boise State

Photo Credit: NCAA.com

After a 38-10 trouncing of SMU in Happy Valley, the Nittany Lions face a stiffer test in Boise State on New Year’s Eve. The Broncos are 12-1, with their only loss coming to #1 Oregon by three points in Week 2. The Mountain West champions earned a first-round bye on the back of Heisman runner-up Ashton Jeanty’s remarkable 2,497 rushing yards and 29 touchdowns, even while teams focused on stopping him and Jeanty rested in several second halves. He has a shot at breaking Barry Sanders’ single-season rushing record, needing 132 yards against Penn State—something he has achieved numerous times this season. The question for Boise State is how quarterback Maddux Madsen will perform. With Penn State boasting a top-ten rushing defense and an elite defensive line, Madsen will need to deliver through the air. If Boise State can balance its offense and not rely too heavily on Jeanty, it should be able to keep pace with Penn State, making for an intriguing contest.

On the other side, Penn State features two standout tailbacks in Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen. The Nittany Lions’ offense revolves around the ground game, but quarterback Drew Allar has improved this season, passing for over 3,000 yards and 21 touchdowns. Despite lacking a true star receiver, Penn State has leveraged offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki’s creativity to move the ball through the air and complement its running backs. The Boise State defense ranks second in the nation in sacks but struggles against the pass and can be prone to big plays. With both teams focusing on shutting down the other’s run game, whichever quarterback performs better in the air will give his team the upper hand. Given the Nittany Lions’ defensive playmaking, including two pick-sixes against SMU and an offense that put up 37 points on Oregon, they should have enough to advance.

Prediction: Penn State 34, Boise State 24

Peach Bowl- #5 Texas vs #4 Arizona State

Photo Credit: NCAA.com

The New Year kicks off with the Peach Bowl between SEC runners-up Texas and Big 12 champions Arizona State. Texas’ only losses were to Georgia, and the Longhorns pulled away from Clemson to advance. Star quarterback Quinn Ewers has CFP experience, while fan-favorite backup Arch Manning has been used in packages to keep defenses guessing. Running back Jaydon Blue has been a dynamic playmaker, and receivers Isaiah Bond (an Alabama transfer) and Gunnar Helm have been reliable options. Texas also has one of the best offensive lines in the country, which should give Ewers time to throw and pose a challenge for Arizona State’s defense. The Sun Devils average just 1.62 sacks per game, which ranks outside the top 100, and struggle to pressure quarterbacks. Arizona State’s defensive back Xavion Alford will need to step up to prevent Texas from taking control.

When Arizona State is on offense, running back Cam Skattebo will be the focal point for the Texas defense. Skattebo rushed for 1,568 yards and 19 touchdowns, adding 506 receiving yards and three touchdowns. However, he hasn’t faced a defense like Texas, ranked 12th in rush defense. Arizona State’s previous opponents have averaged 80th in run defense efficiency. Texas has the advantage on both sides of the line, making this a tough matchup for ASU. Without star receiver Jordyn Tyson and with an inexperienced quarterback in Sam Leavitt, the Sun Devils will have a difficult task. While they exceeded expectations by winning the Big 12, their run should end here unless Skattebo can put together a monumental performance.

Prediction: Texas 37, Arizona State 17

Rose Bowl- #8 Ohio State vs #1 Oregon

Photo Credit: NCAA.com

The iconic Rose Bowl hosts one of the best matchups of the season, as Ohio State looks to avenge its only regular-season loss—a 32-31 thriller against Oregon in Week 7. Both teams demonstrated their offensive power, with Ohio State failing to get a game-winning field goal attempt when quarterback Will Howard was unable to slide in time. Now, with higher stakes, both teams will have much to prove.

After a tough loss to Michigan, Ohio State showed its potential in a dominant victory over Tennessee, with Jeremiah Smith leading the way with 103 yards and two touchdowns. The Buckeyes’ run game also regained form, with TreVeyeon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins both scoring two touchdowns each. Expect the Buckeyes’ offense to be firing on all cylinders in sunny Pasadena. Oregon’s defense, already susceptible to the run, won’t have the home crowd advantage, which should allow Ohio State to score more than they did in the first meeting.

Ohio State’s defense played a dominant role against Tennessee, but they will face a much more formidable offensive line in Oregon. The Ducks boast a powerful running back duo in Jordan James and Noah Whittington, along with a dynamic downfield threat in wide receiver Tez Johnson. Expect a high-scoring shootout, with both teams trying to outdo each other offensively. However, Ohio State’s defense will make enough plays to secure the win and advance.

Prediction: Ohio State 40, Oregon 34

Sugar Bowl- #7 Notre Dame vs #2 Georgia

Photo Credit: NCAA.com

The tripleheader wraps up with a thrilling Sugar Bowl between Notre Dame and Georgia for the final spot in the semifinals. Notre Dame advanced after a 27-17 victory over Indiana, although the game was less competitive than the score suggests. Georgia earned the #2 seed after defeating Texas in the SEC Championship game, and they are fresh off two consecutive national championships in the four-team playoff.

Notre Dame features Duke transfer Riley Leonard, who passed for nearly 2,300 yards and 17 touchdowns while rushing for 751 yards and 15 touchdowns. Running back Jeremiyah Love brings speed to the Irish rushing attack, while Jordan Faison leads the team in receiving. Against Georgia’s stout defense, Notre Dame will need to establish the run game and control the line of scrimmage to be successful.

Georgia will turn to backup quarterback Gunner Stockton due to an injury to Carson Beck. Stockton has a solid supporting cast, including running backs Nate Frazier and Trevor Etienne, as well as wide receivers Arian Smith, Dominic Lovett, and Dillon Bell. Despite missing Beck, the Bulldogs still have a powerful offense, but the Irish defense, led by linebacker Jack Kiser and safety Xavier Watts, will aim to rattle Stockton. If Notre Dame can make enough plays on both sides of the ball, they will have a shot to pull the upset and earn their first-ever victory over Georgia.

Prediction: Notre Dame 27, Georgia 20

Semifinal predictions: Ohio State vs Texas in the Cotton Bowl, Notre Dame vs Penn State in the Orange Bowl.

Miller Moss Transfers to UofL to Compete for Starting QB

By

Stephen Patrick

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December 26, 2024

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The Louisville Cardinals are once again making a significant move in the transfer portal. USC quarterback Miller Moss will join UofL for the2024 season. Moss is ranked as the No. 10 overall player and No. 3 quarterback in the transfer portal. He will have one year of eligibility remaining. This move places Moss in an advantageous position as he seeks to finish his college career on a high note. At Louisville, he will have the opportunity to step into a system that has seen success in quarterback development, particularly under Brohm’s tutelage.

Photo Cred: LA Times

Known for his expertise in cultivating prolific offenses and his ability to maximize the potential of his quarterbacks, Brohm has created a dynamic and high-powered offensive system that could serve as the perfect stage for Moss to shine and make a strong case for a professional future. Moss arrives at Louisville with an impressive career resume. Over his time at USC, he threw for 3,469 yards and 27 touchdowns, completing 65.9% of his passes. In the 2024 season, Moss played in 12 games, throwing for 2,555 yards and 18 touchdowns.

He started nine games before losing the starting role but had some memorable performances, including a standout game against LSU in which he threw for 378 yards and three touchdowns. Moss also impressed against Michigan, where he passed for three touchdowns. Despite losing the starting spot later in the season, Moss showcased his talent and ability to compete at a high level against some of the toughest defenses in college football. Moss’s transfer comes as Louisville’s current starting quarterback, Tyler Shough, departs after a record-breaking season.

Photo Cred: SI

Shough, who started all 12 games for the Cardinals in 2024, passed for 3,195 yards, 23 touchdowns, and just six interceptions. It made him the 13th player in Louisville history to throw for over 3,000 yards in a single season. Shough’s impressive performance under Brohm’s system has elevated his draft stock, putting him in position for a potential shot at the NFL.

As Shough moves on, Louisville is looking to continue building on the success of its quarterback development and high-powered offensive play, and Moss appears to be the perfect candidate to keep the momentum going. The addition of Moss adds further depth to a program that has made great strides under Brohm’s leadership. With the potential for Moss to step in as the starting quarterback, the Cardinals will be looking to build on the momentum of a successful season and continue their rise as a force in college football.

Moss, who is now poised for a productive final year, will look to take full advantage of the opportunity, playing in an offense that has proven successful at developing quarterbacks and putting up big numbers. His decision to transfer to Louisville is a strategic move to position himself for a successful final college season and potentially further his football career at the professional level. Under Brohm’s guidance, Louisville is set to continue its trend of strong quarterback play and offensive firepower, and with Moss now in the fold, the Cardinals will look to build on their success and remain competitive in the coming season.

Mark Pope, The Right Man to Lead UK!

By

Andrew Bruner

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December 21, 2024

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73897270007-usatsi-23026802 — Photo Cred: Online Athens

What a day April 14 was to be a Wildcats fan. The University of Kentucky (UK) introduced their new men’s basketball head coach, Mark Pope, after hiring him two days earlier. Pope came from BYU, where he saw just as much tournament success as the Wildcats. I’ll be honest and say that he was not the first person I had in mind to fill the vacancy of former HC John Calipari. I didn’t even get a chance to speculate on who could fill that role, as it was only a few days after Calipari himself left for Arkansas. My guy was probably Billy Donovan, while other fans/students I talked to also seemed to have choices that didn’t tend to be Mark Pope. With that being said, I like the hire for the Wildcats. If there’s one thing Kentucky needed after Coach Cal resigned, it was a coach who wanted to be here. I think that was the intent of our Athletic Director (Mitch Barnhart), which is probably why he quickly locked in on Pope as his new HC.

Photo Cred: The Courier-Journal

“Attending that press conference was the greatest moment I’ve had being a Kentucky fan,” said a friend who is a diehard fan of the team. Many others who I have talked to expressed the same sentiment. A few things Pope should bring to UK will be his incredible charisma, pride, and joy. In terms of philosophy and style of play, he focuses on flexibility and versatility. Notably, he wants his players to put up a shot within 14 seconds of the shot clock as well as aim for 35 three-pointers per game. I think Barnhart is banking on the storied history of our college basketball program and hoping that it, in addition to Pope’s charisma, will be enough to offset the inevitable loss of master recruiter John Calipari. It’s a bold strategy if Barnhart and Pope play their cards right, and I think it’s worked so far!

The Coaching Effect on Transfers

The loss of Coach Cal was in full effect when big man Zvonimir Ivisic, better known as Big Z, announced that he would be decommitting from Kentucky to head to Arkansas. While disappointing, Z’s move was unsurprising. In addition, guards Adou Thiero and D.J. Wagner also made the move to Ark. alongside Big Z. UK fans should not be too upset about losing Calipari’s guys, though. Mark Pope brought G Jaxson Robinson and SG Collin Chandler, who flipped his commitment from the Cougars, with him. Our incoming transfers were filled with experience, as we added six graduate student seniors, a senior, and a junior. The Wildcats also added two local freshmen, PG Travis Perry and SG Trent Noah, as a part of our 2024 commitments.

Photo Cred: On3.com (L- Pope, R- Robinson)

How Has the 2024 Season Gone So Far?

Pope has definitely deserved the chance to show what he can do as head coach of the Wildcats. Kentucky is 10-1 so far, which included an undefeated month of November. We’re currently ranked No. 4 in the nation, managing more than 80 points in eight games and winning by double digits in seven of them. A win over then-No. 6 Duke in the Champions Classic vaulted us into the top 10. The Wildcats followed the victory by hosting, and winning, the BBN Invitational that featured Lipscomb, Jackson State, and Western Kentucky.

Photo Cred: The Courier-Journal

December has been tougher for UK, as they lost 70-66 to Clemson in the ACC-SEC Challenge. Four days later, Kentucky had to go to overtime in the Battle in Seattle to knock off then-No. 7 Gonzaga by one point. The Battle of the Bluegrass matchup against Louisville five days ago was just an eight-point victory, despite the Cardinals only leading once the entire game. We do have one big non-conference matchup remaining: the CBS Sports Classic at Madison Square Garden, where we take on Ohio State. The game will start at 5:30 PM Eastern today. The Wildcats’ SEC regular season will kick off with a rivalry game at home against Florida on Jan. 4.

How Are the Players Doing?

Junior guard Otega Oweh, who joined us from Oklahoma, leads the team in points (15.7) and steals (1.4). Graduate student center Amari Williams, previously of Drexel, leads with 9.1 rebounds and 1.6 blocks. Graduate student guard Lamont Butler (San Diego State) has 4.1 assists and a 60.8 FG shooting percentage for us. Senior forward Ansley Almonor (Farleigh Dickinson) is the only player shooting 90% or better on free throws, with a minimum of 10 minutes played per game. Lastly, graduate student guard Koby Brea (Dayton) is by far our best three-point shooter, with a 53.1 percentage.

Photo Cred: A Sea Of Blue (Williams)

Some fans were worried about the lack of tournament success Pope had at BYU. In his five seasons in charge, he failed to make it to March Madness thrice and lost in the first round the other two times. While the Cougars made it to the NIT in the 2021-22 season, they were bounced out in the quarterfinals. However, with a clean slate and the drive to succeed, he’s someone who knows what an honor it is to get a job like this one. I am confident in his success and do think he is the right man to lead UK. Welcome home, Mark Pope!

The Hoosiers & Irish Take Center Stage in Historic Showdown

By

Cody Shonk

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December 19, 2024

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Since the induction of the College Football Playoff in 2014, no two teams from the same state have been matched against each other, that changes in South Bend. Notre Dame (11-1) will host Indiana (11-1) in the opening round of the CFB Playoff, a historic first on many levels. This marks the first time a team gets a “home” game in the expanded playoff format, but how much of a home game will it really be for Marcus Freeman and the Fighting Irish when Curt Cignetti’s Hoosiers are only a short bus ride away from the iconic Touchdown Jesus?

Photo Cred: SI

We’re likely in store for a sea of crimson and gold surrounding the gridiron this weekend. This matchup is expected to be an absolute shootout, with Vegas setting the over/under at 51.5 points. The Hoosiers come into this game with slightly better offensive production, averaging 43.3 points per game (2nd in the nation), while the Irish are right behind them in 3rd at 39.8.

Both teams are nearly even on the defensive side as well, with Indiana giving up 14.6 points per game and Notre Dame surrendering just 13.5. Yet, as of writing this, Vegas has Notre Dame favored by 7.5 points with a -285 moneyline. This raises the question: With such statistical similarities, why isn’t this game expected to be closer? The answer may become clearer when we review the course of the season. When we compare each team’s performance in the one common opponent they shared this season, Purdue, it highlights contrasting offensive approaches.

Photo Cred: IU

Notre Dame amassed 578 total yards of offense, with 216 yards through the air and an astounding 362 on the ground. Quarterback Riley Leonard and running back Jeremiyah Love each tallied over 100 rushing yards, combining for four touchdowns. Leonard also managed the game well through the air, with 112 passing yards and a 68.7% completion rate. On the other hand, the Hoosiers were more pass-heavy against Purdue, racking up 349 passing yards while still managing 233 yards rushing. Quarterback Kurtis Rourke, along with wide receiver Elijah Sarratt, put on a clinic.

Rourke threw for 349 yards, completing 74.1% of his passes and tossing six touchdowns. Sarratt caught eight passes for 165 yards and two touchdowns, including a breathtaking 84-yard score. Both Notre Dame and Indiana will rely heavily on big defensive plays. The Irish secondary, led by Xavier Watts and Benjamin Morrison, will need to lock down any deep-ball opportunities the Hoosiers might attempt.

Watts, the reigning Bronko Nagurski winner with six interceptions this season, is expected to play a key role in limiting big plays, while Notre Dame boasts the third-best pass defense in the nation, allowing only 151.1 passing yards per game. For Indiana, their defensive front is led by the inside/outside duo of Tyrique Tucker and Mikail Kamara. Kamara leads all of FBS in quarterback pressures and contributes to Indiana’s nation-leading run defense, allowing just 70.8 yards per game. Each team’s defensive specialty appears to be a direct counter to the other’s offensive strengths, which begs the question: Why does the spread seem so favorable to one side? This is a historic matchup with all the makings of a new CFB rivalry.

Norfolk State Hires Michael Vick as Head Coach

By

Serenity Martin

-

December 19, 2024

0

Former NFL star and four-time Pro Bowl quarterback Michael Vick has been named the head coach of Norfolk State University’s football team, marking an exciting new chapter in both his career and the university’s athletic program. Vick’s appointment comes as a thrilling development for both the Norfolk State community and college football fans, signaling the beginning of a new era for the Spartans. Known for his electrifying career as a dual-threat quarterback, Vick’s journey from a standout at Virginia Tech to becoming the first African American quarterback to be selected with the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL Draft has captivated football fans across the nation.

Photo Cred: NPR

“It’s an honor to announce that I’ll be the new head coach of Norfolk State University… looking forward to coming back home,” Vick shared in a heartfelt Facebook post on Tuesday night. His announcement comes as he steps into a role that blends his passion for football with his deep connection to his roots in Virginia.

Vick, a Newport News native, has long been a fixture of Virginia’s football legacy. As a standout at Virginia Tech, he led the Hokies to the 1999 national championship game, one of the most memorable seasons in the school’s history. His remarkable college career set the stage for an even more groundbreaking professional journey. In 2001, Vick made history as the first African American quarterback ever selected with the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL Draft, a milestone that would redefine expectations for the position.

Over the course of his 13-year career in the NFL, Vick became known for his electrifying playing style, blending speed, agility, and an unorthodox, dynamic arm. While his career was also marred by a high-profile scandal that brought controversy and legal challenges, Vick managed to rebuild his life and career, ultimately becoming a respected figure in the league once again. His legacy includes not just his on-field successes but also his personal growth and dedication to mentoring others.

Photo Cred: Fox

Vick’s playing style revolutionized the quarterback position, as his dual-threat capabilities set a new precedent for mobile quarterbacks. He became one of the most exciting and unpredictable players in NFL history, capable of changing the game with both his arm and his legs. Statistically, Vick remains one of the NFL’s all-time top rushing quarterbacks, recording 6,109 career rushing yards. His ability to extend plays with his legs and his playmaking skills reshaped the way the quarterback position was viewed, inspiring a generation of mobile quarterbacks to follow in his footsteps.

Now, as head coach of Norfolk State, Vick is poised to bring his wealth of experience, knowledge, and passion for the game to the next generation of football players. His return to Virginia is both a personal and professional homecoming, and he is eager to contribute to the development of young athletes, on and off the field. Vick’s new role signals a new era for Norfolk State’s football program, and many are excited to see how his unique vision and leadership will shape the team’s future.

Festive Uniform Patch to be Worn by the Four Competing NFL Holiday Remix Teams

By

Stephen Patrick

-

December 18, 2024

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NEW YORK — Dec. 18, 2024 — This year, a new global holiday tradition of Christmas Day NFL games on Netflix begins.

To celebrate the occasion, each of the four competing teams in the NFL Holiday Remix – the Baltimore Ravens, Houston Texans, Kansas City Chiefs and Pittsburgh Steelers – will wear a festive, holiday-inspired uniform patch during their games on Saturday, Dec. 21 and again on Christmas Day. Featuring the NFL shield backed by two candy canes, the special holiday jersey patch can be viewed and downloaded here.

On Saturday, Dec. 21, the NFL Holiday Remix begins with the Texans facing the Chiefs at 1 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock, followed by the Steelers versus the Ravens at 4:30 p.m. ET on FOX. The second part of the NFL Holiday Remix takes place on Christmas Day and is available to a worldwide audience on Netflix when the Chiefs face the Steelers at 1 p.m. ET, followed by the Ravens visiting the Texans at 4:30 p.m. ET. In keeping with the NFL’s long-standing tradition, the Netflix Christmas Day games will air on broadcast TV in the markets of the competing teams and be available on U.S. mobile devices with NFL+.

“The NFL on Christmas has become a holiday staple with families coming together to celebrate and watch NFL games,” said Tim Ellis, NFL executive vice president of marketing. “This year, we look forward to the start of a new holiday tradition with Netflix which will be seen around the world, and these holiday-inspired uniform patches are a great touch to mark this special occasion.”

This year begins the first of a three-season partnership with Netflix to broadcast NFL games on Christmas Day in what will serve as a must-see cultural and global event. Each game on Christmas Day will be available globally to Netflix subscribers in English, French, Spanish, Portuguese and German in various countries around the world.

NFL Christmas Gameday on Netflix starts 11 a.m. ET with a live pregame show from NFL Network’s studios in Los Angeles and onsite at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh. Host Kay Adams anchors the coverage from Los Angeles, joined by analysts Drew Brees, Robert Griffin III, Mina Kimes and Manti Te’o, while host Laura Rutledge and analysts Devin McCourty and Jason McCourty are live from Pittsburgh. Additionally, comedians Bert Kreischer and Nate Bargatze join live.

For Chiefs-Steelers at 1 p.m. ET, play-by-play announcer Ian Eagle, analysts Nate Burleson and JJ Watt, and sideline reporters Melanie Collins and Stacey Dales are on the call.

For Ravens-Texans at 4:30 p.m. ET, play-by-play announcer Noah Eagle, analyst Greg Olsen, and sideline reporters Jamie Erdahl and Steve Wyche are on the call. During halftime of Ravens-Texans, the Netflix Christmas Day Halftime Show airs featuring Beyoncé.

Across both games, Ian Rapoport will be standing by with breaking news and former NFL official Gene Steratore will provide insight from a rules perspective.

The NFL first played games on Christmas Day in 1971 and held games on the holiday on a semi-regular basis beginning in 1989. Since 2020, NFL games on Christmas Day have been a holiday staple with last year’s three Christmas Day games (Las Vegas Raiders versus Kansas City Chiefs, New York Giants versus Philadelphia Eagles and Baltimore Ravens versus San Francisco 49ers) ranking among the top 25 most-viewed TV programs of 2023, with the Raiders-Chiefs game being the second most-watched Christmas Day NFL game on record. In total, the NFL has played 30 games on Christmas Day prior to this year.

Season-to-date, NFL viewership is 17.8 million per game (excluding NFL Network international games, Peacock and ESPN+), tied for the highest average through Week 15 since 2015. Additionally, NFL games rank as 47 of the top 50 shows on TV since the start of the 2024 season.

Media Contact: Andrew Howard, Andrew.Howard@nfl.com

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

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