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Multiple UAB Blazers Entering Transfer Portal

By
Iliyan Lakhani
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Given the dismal performance of the UAB Blazers this season, it came as little surprise when many experts predicted the departure of several key players on both sides of the ball. This outcome seemed inevitable, especially as head coach Trent Dilfer struggled to meet expectations throughout the campaign. The Blazers experienced some of their worst performances in program history, and the lack of success left their top talents with compelling reasons to seek new opportunities in the transfer portal.

Football - UAB Athletics

Photo Cred: UAB

One of the first to make the move was UAB’s starting quarterback, Jacob Zeno. A seasoned veteran, Zeno faced numerous challenges throughout the season, both on and off the field. Before being sidelined with a shoulder injury, Zeno had accounted for 916 yards, six touchdowns, and five interceptions—numbers that clearly reflected his struggles and the overall struggles of the offense. These statistics, coupled with the team’s overall performance, made it increasingly evident that Zeno was likely to seek a fresh start elsewhere, signaling the end of his time at Protective Stadium.

The departure of Zeno, while significant, was not the only major loss for UAB. Lee Beebe Jr., the face of the Blazers’ offense, also entered the transfer portal, marking a devastating blow to the team’s already fragile offense. Beebe Jr. had been a critical component of the Blazers’ game plan, particularly in their aggressive rushing attack. Although the Blazers only managed to secure three wins this season, Beebe Jr. played an essential role in moving the ball downfield and finding the end zone. Without his contributions, it is hard to imagine the Blazers would have had any victories at all. His decision to leave UAB further emphasized the team’s struggles and the lack of stability within the program.

Over the past three seasons, Beebe Jr. became a fan favorite and a symbol of resilience in the city of Birmingham. The Blazers gave him the chance to play competitive football, and he worked tirelessly to prove himself. This season, Beebe Jr. had a career-high in carries and emerged as one of the top running backs in the conference, rushing for a total of 1,103 yards and eight touchdowns. Had UAB been more successful on the field, Beebe Jr. would have easily been recognized as one of the conference’s premier talents. However, with the Blazers’ poor record and limited national attention, his outstanding individual performance went largely unnoticed.

UAB Blazers to Reinstate Football Program

Photo Cred: UAB

As two standout players with significant experience, both Zeno and Beebe Jr. were eager to move on to programs where they could compete at a higher level and improve their chances of reaching the NFL. With their aspirations of making, it to the professional ranks, staying at a struggling UAB team, which finished the season with a dismal 3-9 record, would have limited their visibility and draft prospects. As they pursue opportunities with winning programs, they hope to enhance their exposure and prove their worth to NFL scouts.

For UAB, this exodus of talent leaves the team in a precarious position. Head coach Trent Dilfer now faces the daunting task of rebuilding a roster that has lost some of its most dynamic players. The Blazers will need to make a significant push in recruiting to replenish their talent pool and revitalize the program. They will also need to hope that the remaining players on the roster can step up and help shift the narrative next season. With a commitment to improvement, it remains to be seen whether UAB can rebound from this challenging season and regain relevance in college football.

Alabama QB Jalen Milroe Awarded NFF’s 35th William V. Campbell Trophy

By
Stephen Patrick
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Dual-threat QB and cum laude graduate claims college football’s premier scholar-athlete award, receiving a $25,000 postgraduate scholarship.

LAS VEGAS (Dec. 10, 2024) – University of Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe has been named the 35th recipient of the prestigious William V. Campbell Trophy at tonight’s 66th National Football Foundation Annual Awards Dinner Presented by Las Vegas.

The Campbell Trophy ranks as one of college football’s most sought-after and competitive awards, recognizing an individual as the absolute best in the country for his combined academic success, football performance and exemplary leadership. Awarded since 1990, the 24-inch, 25-pound bronze trophy comes with a $25,000 postgraduate scholarship.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL FOOTBALL FOUNDATION & COLLEGE HALL OF FAME

Founded in 1947 with early leadership from General Douglas MacArthur, legendary Army coach Earl “Red” Blaik and immortal journalist Grantland Rice, The National Football Foundation & College Hall of Fame is a non-profit educational organization that runs programs designed to use the power of amateur football in developing scholarship, citizenship, and athletic achievement in young people. With 120 chapters in 47 states, NFF programs include the criteria, selection and induction of members of the College Football Hall of Fame; the Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta; Future For Football; I Played; the William V. Campbell Trophy®; the NFF National Scholar-Athlete Class Presented by Fidelity Investments; the NFF National High School Academic Excellence Awards presented by the Rose Bowl Legacy Foundation & Hatchell Cup presented by the Original Bob’s Steak & Chop House; and a series of programs and initiatives to honor the legends of the past and inspire the leaders of the future. NFF corporate partners include Bruin Capital, Catapult, Delta Air Lines, Fidelity Investments, Hampshire Companies, CAA Executive Search, Jostens, Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, New York Athletic Club, Pasadena Tournament of Roses, the Rose Bowl Legacy Foundation and the Sports Business Journal. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @NFFNetwork and learn more at footballfoundation.org.

Berlin to Host Regular Season NFL Game in 2025

By
Stephen Patrick
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A view from the 50 yard line before an NFL football game between the Carolina Panthers and the New York Giants at Allianz Arena in Munich, Germany, Sunday, Nov. 10, 2024. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
BERLIN, GERMANY — Dec. 11, 2024 — The National Football League will play its first-ever regular season game in Berlin, Germany in 2025 as the league continues to prioritize global growth and expand its global footprint.

The 2025 NFL Berlin game will be played at the Olympic Stadium as part of a multiyear commitment to playing games in the sports metropolis.

The NFL has successfully held regular season games in Munich and Frankfurt since 2022, with the game in Berlin set to mark the fifth NFL regular season game in Germany and the first in the German capital.

“Germany has a rich tradition of American football, and the NFL has a deep history with the city of Berlin,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. “We first held a preseason game at the Olympic Stadium 34 years ago, before it was home to NFL Europe’s Berlin Thunder in the early 2000s. Now, with almost 20 million NFL fans in Germany, we’ll make a historic return to the city playing a regular season game for the first time as we open the next chapter in our relationship with Berlin.”

“This long-term partnership with the NFL will continue to boost Berlin as a global sports metropolis, as well as excite fans at the Olympic Stadium,” said Senator for the Interior and Sports, State of Berlin, Iris Spranger. “The 2025 NFL Berlin game means worldwide visibility, numerous international guests, increased tourism and high economic value across the city. We’re looking forward to an incredible game and an ongoing successful partnership with the league, as we continue to strengthen the presence of American football throughout the state.”

In addition to the game, the NFL will work with the Berlin Senate across their major sports development program to grow and develop flag football — the non-contact format of the game that will be included in the Olympic Games Los Angeles 2028 (LA28) — in Berlin’s schools and clubs.

The NFL played five American Bowl games at the Olympic Stadium between 1990 and 1994, and it was also home to NFL Europe’s Berlin Thunder from 2003-07. The Olympic Stadium has hosted the 1936 Summer Olympic Games, the FIFA Men’s World Cup (1974 and 2006), a FIFA Women’s World Cup (2011), six UEFA EURO 2024 matches, including the final, and world and European athletics championships. The Olympic Stadium is also the home of the football club Hertha BSC.

Beginning in 2025, the NFL can schedule up to eight league-operated international regular season games per season. A commitment to playing two regular season games in London at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and one game in Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium – home to Real Madrid C.F., have already been announced for 2025. Other games and locations will be confirmed in the weeks and months ahead.

Fifty-five regular season NFL games have been played around the world throughout the league’s history, with London, Munich, Frankfurt, São Paulo, Mexico City and Toronto all hosting games to date.

The NFL will announce participating teams, schedule and ticket information in the coming months.

Fans can register their interest here: nfl.com/berlin.
For more from NFL Communications, visit  media.nfl.com

Top Basketball Recruit AJ Dybantsa Historically Chooses BYU

By
Stephen Patrick
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AJ Dybantsa, is regarded as the top high school basketball player prospect. The 6-foot-9 forward announced that he’s committing to BYU. He selected the Cougars over Alabama, Kansas, and North Carolina. Dybantsa is projected to be the top overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. This is a historic day for BYU athletics. Dybantsa’s announcement is arguably the biggest catch in the program’s history. The forward has an impressive combination of size, athleticism, and skills.

AJ Dybantsa commits to BYU: Why top-ranked 2025 recruit chose Cougars

Photo Cred: USA Today

The landscape of college sports has undergone a dramatic shift in recent years, thanks in large part to the introduction of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, which have leveled the playing field for programs across the country. With NIL, smaller schools that may not traditionally be able to compete financially with powerhouse programs are now able to offer highly lucrative deals to top-tier recruits. This change has fundamentally altered the recruiting process, making it possible for these schools to attract elite athletes that may have previously been drawn to larger, more established programs.

Thanks NIL Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) Dybantsa was offered in the $5 million-$7 million range. Dybantsa has all the makings of a high-level college basketball player. His skills include elite scoring, top tier defense, and an impressive basketball IQ. With his talent, Dybantsa holds the has the potential to become a great wing player at the next level.

He will join an already talented roster that hopes to in the national title race. The Cougars will return a strong core of experienced players, including seniors Dallin Hall, Keba Keita, Richie Saunders, and Dawson Baker, who have already proven themselves as key contributors to the team’s success. Alongside them, rising stars like Brody Kozlowski, Elijah Crawford, and highly rated freshman Xavion Staton will look to build on their development and push BYU into the national spotlight.

“I went on my visit, head coach all the way down to the analytics guy, analytics guy all the way to the dietician is all NBA staff, even the strength coach,” Dybantsa said on ESPN’s “First Take” on Tuesday after announcing his decision.

“So if it’s all NBA, I’m trying to get the NBA. I think it’s going to be the best development for me.”

AJ Dybantsa Commits to BYU Over Alabama

Photo Cred: SI

Dybantsa’s commitment will undoubtedly make the Cougars a serious contender for their first-ever Final Four appearance — a feat they may even achieve this season, given the talent on the roster. The combination of veteran leadership and Dybantsa’s explosive potential gives BYU a unique chance to make a deep tournament run, with aspirations of a national championship within reach. Additionally, the futures of players like Egor Demin and Kanon Catchings will be intriguing to watch as the season unfolds, as both have the potential to contribute significantly to BYU’s success. With Dybantsa in the fold, BYU’s basketball program is positioned for what could be one of the most exciting and successful eras in its history.

The Best Bowl Games Outside of the CFB Playoffs

By
Stephen Patrick
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The College Football Playoffs are set! But there are plenty of thrilling matchups to look forward to outside the playoff picture. These bowl games feature top-tier programs and ranked teams. From Deion Sanders bring Colorado back from the head to the clash of storied programs, these games promise to deliver. Here’s a look at some of the best bowl games to catch this postseason.

Alamo Bowl: BYU vs. Colorado

Alamo Bowl) BYU vs Colorado in the Alamo bowl : r/CFB

Photo Cred: ABC

The Alamo Bowl will be a thrilling game. Stars Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter have confirmed they will play. This is the game that looked like the Big 12 Championship game before upsets. BYU is 10-2. They feel unfairly overlooked by the playoff selection committee, despite beating SMU. These two top 20 Big 12 teams didn’t meet in the regular season.

Citrus Bowl: South Carolina vs. Illinois
South Carolina heads into bowl season as one the hottest teams. USC had an outside chance of the CFB Playoffs two weeks ago. The Gamecocks for thier first 10 or more season since 2013 under Steve Spurrier. Illinois is eyeing its first 10-win season since 2001. A victory would be a significant coach, Bret Bielema.

Holiday Bowl: Syracuse vs. Washington State
This game features a compelling clash between Syracuse and Washington State, two teams looking to end their seasons on a high note. Syracuse upset Clemson to enter the top 25. Washington State made it into the top 25 numerous times this season. Both squads have been hard to predict, with flashes of brilliance followed by moments of inconsistency.

ReliaQuest Bowl: Michigan vs. Alabama
The ReliaQuest Bowl presents a matchup between two powerhouse programs, Michigan and Alabama. Both teams are under first year coaches. Michigan, under Sherrone Moore, is riding high after a stunning upset of Ohio State. Alabama, meanwhile, is one of three three-loss SEC teams ranked just outside the playoff picture. Will the tide be ready to play this game after being the first team out of the playoffs?

Pop-Tarts Bowl: Miami vs. Iowa State

Cyclones To Face Miami In Pop-Tarts Bowl - Iowa State University Athletics

Photo Cred: ABC

Heisman finalist Cam Ward will play in this top 25 match up. It’s Miami’s high-powered offense vs Iowa State’s resilient defense. Iowa State’s was one game away from the College Football playoffs. The game against Arizona State was marred by three costly turnovers in the second half. Even with the loss they could finish the season at 11 wins.

NFL Announces International Player Pathway Program Class of 2025

By
Stephen Patrick
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Photo Cred: NFL
NEW YORK — Dec. 9, 2024 — The NFL has announced its International Player Pathway (IPP) program Class of 2025 featuring 14 athletes representing 13 nations around the world, as the league continues to focus on creating more opportunities for talented international athletes to play the game at the highest level.

Established in 2017, the IPP program identifies elite global talent with the aim of providing selected athletes the opportunity to improve and develop their skills, and ultimately earn a spot on an NFL roster.

Starting in January 2025, athletes on the program are invited to train in American football — both on the field and in the classroom — for 10 weeks at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, before showcasing their skills in front of NFL club scouts as part of the University of South Florida’s Pro Day in March.

Players can be signed as a free agent or, if eligible, selected during the 2025 NFL Draft. Each NFL club is permitted one roster exemption for a qualifying international player from the start of the club’s offseason program through the roster reduction to 53 players. At that time, qualifying international players are eligible to be signed to a 17th practice squad roster spot reserved for international athletes across any of the 32 teams.

The program has historically welcomed athletes from diverse sporting backgrounds, including rugby, basketball, Gaelic football, track & field and more, and is supported by elite football coaching staff.

“The Class of 2025 is an exciting one, and we are delighted to welcome these talented athletes from around the world to the International Player Pathway program,” said Executive Vice President International, Events and Club Business at the NFL Peter O’Reilly. “Focusing on our global football development efforts and fostering international talent is crucial to growing our game globally. The IPP program offers life-changing opportunities for international talent, and we look forward to following their progress in the weeks and months ahead.”

The International Player Pathway Program Class of 2025 includes:

PLAYER COUNTRY
Jordan Petaia Australia
Laitia Moceidreke Australia
Laki Tasi Australia
Jeneiro Wakeham Fiji
Joachim Trouabal France
Maceo Beard France
Leander Wiegand Germany
Aaron Sexton Ireland
Rojé Stona Jamaica
Nathaniel Salmon New Zealand
Paschal Ekeji Jr Lesotho / Nigeria / South Africa
Dante Barnett United Kingdom
Mapalo “Maz” Mwansa United Kingdom / Zambia
TJ Maguranyanga Zimbabwe

A group of specialists, consisting of international kickers and punters, will also join the wider Class of 2025 in the coming weeks.

The IPP program is part of a long-term commitment by the NFL and its 32 clubs to accelerate global football development efforts and establish a pathway for international talent to play the game at the highest level.

Since its inception, 41 international players have signed with NFL teams (allocated, drafted or signed as a free agent), with 23 IPP athletes currently on NFL rosters. Six of these players — Jordan Mailata (Australia), Jakob Johnson (Germany), Efe Obada (United Kingdom), Sammis Reyes (Chile), Thomas Odukoya (Netherlands) and David Bada (Germany) — have seen active rosters since 2017.

For more information on the International Player Pathway program, visit: www.nfl.com/international/player-pathway.

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International Player Pathway Program Appendix:

Media Kit:

For a full media kit, including further information and imagery on each of the international players, download: NFL IPP Class of 2025 – Media Guide

To learn more about the IPP and the IPP Class of 2024, watch: The Pathway Series

International Player Definition: A qualifying International Player (IP) is defined as a player whose citizenship and principal place of residence are outside the United States and Canada, and who has a maximum of two years of United States high school experience. In addition, an IP must: (i) satisfy all NFL player eligibility rules; and (ii) have been eligible for a prior NFL Draft. An IP can also play any position, including kicker or punter.

Relevant IPP Program Rules: Each of the 32 NFL clubs can fill a 17th roster spot on the practice squad with a qualifying international player. A player may be an International Practice Player for a maximum of three (3) seasons, with a season defined as being on the Practice Squad or Active/Inactive List for at least six games (a bye week counts as a game). After an IP’s third season as an International Practice Player, the player remains eligible to be signed to a club’s Active/Inactive List or Practice Squad subject to standard roster rules (i.e., Standard, Exception, Veteran player).
For more from NFL Communications, visit  media.nfl.com

CFB Playoffs Goes through the Oregon Ducks

By
Kellan Quinn
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The No. 1 Oregon Ducks are your Big 10 champions. Although the 2024-25 season got off to a shaky start, Oregon hasn’t looked back for a second and has dominated the nation ever since. Their victory over Penn State on Saturday marked their second win against a top five program, following their triumph over Ohio State in October. But let’s break down how it all went down in Indy. From the very first possession, the Ducks came out firing.

Oregon football vs. Penn State: Final score, highlights

Photo Cred: The Register Guard

They marched down the field and scored the opening points of the game, thanks to a beautiful hurdle from Kenyon Sadiq, who entirely cleared the defender. That opening possession set the tone for the rest of the game. Oregon was unconscious on the offensive side, making big plays at will and showing incredible poise. As usual, Dillon Gabriel led the charge with 283 yards and four touchdowns on 22-of-32 passing. Jordan James and Noah Whittington powered the ground game, with 87 and 82 rushing yards, respectively.

James also had two touchdowns. The hero of the night, though, was Tez Johnson. With 11 receptions for 181 yards and a touchdown, the adopted brother of Broncos QB Bo Nix should see a spike in his draft stock after his masterclass performance. A lesser team than Penn State might have folded after the Ducks’ electrifying first possession. But the Nittany Lions showed they had firepower too. On their first drive, Penn State calmly and decisively marched down the field. Though they were forced to settle for a field goal, they made it clear they weren’t rattled by Oregon’s fast start.

Although they never led, Penn State was constantly threatening to tie the game or even take the lead. The Nittany Lions actually outgained the Ducks 518-466, and quarterback Drew Allar was fantastic. He threw for 226 yards and three touchdowns, and his running game stood out as well. Allar made several smart decisions to take off with the ball himself, finishing the game with 54 rushing yards. One baffling aspect of Penn State’s strategy was their use of trick plays.

Penn State Defender Throw Up Vs. Oregon Ducks In Big Ten Championship?

Photo Cred: SI

No fewer than three times, Penn State attempted highly telegraphed trickery that had no effect on the Oregon defense. Given how effective the Penn State offense was on Saturday, these gimmick plays proved to be wasted opportunities. The Nittany Lions fought valiantly and were just a score and a two-point conversion away from tying the game when Oregon DB Nikko Reed made an incredible diving interception to seal the game.

This defensive play led Oregon to their first-ever Big 10 Championship victory. Both teams from Saturday’s matchup have earned spots in the College Football Playoff bracket. Oregon will face the winner of the Ohio State vs. Texas game in the Rose Bowl, while Penn State will face SMU in the opening round.

Syracuse struggles continue in a 69-64 loss to Notre Dame

By
Michael DiNatale
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Syracuse basketball (4-4, 0-1) began ACC play by traveling to face Notre Dame (5-5, 1-0). The Orange were coming off a 26-point loss to Tennessee and continued to struggle offensively. Syracuse failed to make a three-pointer throughout the game, shooting 0-for-9 from beyond the arc. They were outscored by 24 points from three-point range. This marked the first time since 2014 that Syracuse had gone an entire game without a made three-pointer.

Notre Dame 69, Syracuse 64: Orange fall in first ACC road game

Photo Cred: MSN

The Orange were once again without junior guard JJ Starling, who is expected to be sidelined indefinitely due to a broken wrist. Starling, who averages 19.8 points per game, was sorely missed. SU needed its experienced players to step up, but it was freshman Donnie Freeman who took the lead, scoring 20 points and grabbing 11 rebounds.

Junior Chris Bell, expected to be a breakout player this season, struggled again, scoring just 4 points and making only 1 field goal. Last season, Bell averaged 12 points per game and shot 42% from three, but through eight games this season, he is averaging just 6.6 points per game on 34% shooting from three. As the team’s best shooter, Bell’s struggles were especially costly, particularly when the team failed to make a single three-pointer throughout the game.

Notre Dame 69, Syracuse 64: Orange fall in first ACC road game

Photo Cred: MSN

After the loss, the Orange head coach Adrian Autry discussed the team’s approach moving forward and the future of its minute rotation.

“This team is still without JJ, we’re not shooting the ball well, we just have to adjust and go game by game. See if someone is making shots or giving some type of lift,” Autry said.

He suggested that lineups would continue to be adjusted each game depending on who is performing well. However, the constant changes to the rotation and inconsistent minutes are likely causing players to struggle in unfamiliar roles. To turn the season around, I believe Autry needs to establish a more consistent rotation, allowing players to settle into their roles and gain confidence.

FWAA-NFF Super 16 Poll: Week 15 (December 8)

By
Memphis Spence
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Image

As the college football season heads into its final stretch, the FWAA-NFF Super 16 Poll has revealed its Week 15 rankings, showcasing the top 16 teams across the country. With the race for the College Football Playoff spots heating up, this poll offers a snapshot of the teams that are currently performing at the highest level.

Here’s a look at the Week 15 rankings:

  1. Oregon
  2. Georgia
  3. Texas
  4. Indiana
  5. Notre Dame
  6. Boise State
  7. Tennessee
  8. Ohio State
  9. Penn State
  10. Ole Miss
  11. Arizona State
  12. Clemson
  13. SMU
  14. Alabama
  15. South Carolina
  16. Miami (FL)

Key Takeaways from the Rankings

Oregon takes the top spot in the Week 15 poll, signaling a dominant season under head coach Dan Lanning. With standout performances on both sides of the ball, the Ducks have been a force this year and are well-positioned to make a push for a playoff spot.

Georgia comes in at No. 2, continuing to showcase their elite defense and offensive firepower. As the defending national champions, Georgia remains a formidable team that many will expect to make a deep run in the postseason.

Texas, at No. 3, has impressed this season with their strong performance in their first season in the SEC. They showed the deeper SEC conference is no problem for them.

Indiana, ranked fourth, their rise has turned heads this season, as they continue to prove they belong in the upper echelon of college football.

At No. 5, Notre Dame has had a solid season with key wins, and their ranking solidifies their place among the best teams in the nation. With an all-around balanced squad, the Fighting Irish remain a top contender.

Boise State at No. 6 is a notable presence from the Group of Five conferences. Their continued success on the national stage has made them a fixture in the Super 16 rankings, challenging the traditional powerhouses of college football.

Tennessee (No. 7) and Ohio State (No. 8) are both perennial powers that continue to make waves in their respective conferences. Ohio State, in particular, remains a heavy favorite in the Big Ten race, while Tennessee is making strides in the SEC.

Penn State, ranked ninth, rounds out the top ten. The Nittany Lions have been one of the most consistent teams in college football this season.

Beyond the top 10, Ole Miss (No. 10) and Arizona State (No. 11) provide some interesting stories, continuing to fight for prominence in their conferences. Meanwhile, Clemson (No. 12) is another team that will not be overlooked, and SMU (No. 13) has been impressive in the Group of Five.

Alabama (No. 14) and South Carolina (No. 15) are both SEC programs that have been resilient all season long, with Alabama continuing to face challenges in a tough SEC environment. Finally, Miami (FL) at No. 16 rounds out the Super 16 poll, reflecting their efforts to rebuild and become competitive once again.

Seven From Sunday – Week 14

By
Stephen Patrick
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Photo Cred: NFL
NEW YORK –– Dec. 8, 2024 –– A look at seven statistical highlights from games played during the 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. ET windows on Sunday, December 8, the 14th week of the 2024 season.

  • With two games remaining in Week 14, six games were decided by six-or-fewer points. Two teams – Detroit and Miami – recorded the game-winning score on the final play of the game.

    There have been 98 games this season decided by six-or fewer points, the most such games through Week 14 in NFL history, and 112 games decided by seven-or-fewer games, tied with the 2016 season for the most such games through Week 14 in NFL history.

    There have been 119 games decided by eight-or-fewer points this season, the third-most such games through Week 14 in NFL history, trailing only 2016 (122 games) and 2022 (121).

The Los Angeles Rams defeated Buffalo, 44-42, in the highest scoring game of the 2024 season, It marked the second game in NFL history featuring five combined touchdown passes, five combined rushing touchdowns and no turnovers (Kansas City vs. Denver on Dec. 19, 1965).

The Philadelphia Eagles extended their winning streak to nine games today, while the Detroit Lions won their franchise-record 11th consecutive game on Thursday. This marks the first time since 2009 (Indianapolis Colts and the San Diego Chargers in the AFC) in which two teams from a single conference have active winning streaks of nine-or-more games at the same time.

With a victory today, along with losses by Atlanta and Arizona, the Philadelphia Eagles clinched a postseason berth for the fourth-consecutive season, their longest streak since securing five straight playoff appearances from 2000-04.

With a victory on Thursday Night Football, the Detroit Lions clinched a postseason berth in consecutive seasons for the first time since securing three straight playoff appearances from 1993-95.

With a victory tonight on Sunday Night Football, the Kansas City Chiefs can clinch their ninth-consecutive AFC West division title.

  • Los Angels Rams running back Kyren Williams recorded two rushing touchdowns and wide receiver Puka Nacua totaled 12 receptions for 162 yards with two touchdowns (one receiving, one rushing) in the Rams’ 44-42 victory over Buffalo.

Nacua, playing in his 25th career game today, has 159 receptions, surpassing Michael Thomas (157 receptions) for the second-most by a player in his first 25 career games in NFL history. Only Odell Beckham Jr. (176 receptions) has more.

Nacua has 2,194 receiving yards, surpassing Justin Jefferson (2,175 receiving yards) for the fourth-most ever by a player in his first 25 career games. Only Odell Beckham Jr. (2,625 receiving yards), Charlie Hennigan (2,468) and Bill Groman (2,453) have more.

Nacua has 11 career games with at least 100 receiving yards, surpassing Justin Jefferson (10 games) for the second-most such games by a player in his first 25 career games in the Super Bowl era. Only Odell Beckham Jr. (15 games) has more.

Nacua is the fifth player ever with at least 10 receptions and 100 receiving yards in three games within his first 25 career games, joining Odell Beckham Jr. (four games), Lionel Taylor (four), Gary Clark (three) and Marques Colston (three).

Williams has 1,013 rushing yards and 12 rushing touchdowns this season and totaled 1,144 rushing yards and 12 rushing touchdowns last season. He is the fifth player since 2000 with at least 1,000 rushing yards and 12 rushing touchdowns in two of his first three career seasons, joining Shaun Alexander (2001-02), Adrian Peterson (2007, 2009), Clinton Portis (2002-03) and Pro Football Hall of Famer LaDainian Tomlinson (2002-03).

  • Buffalo quarterback Josh Allen totaled 424 yards (342 passing, 82 rushing) and six touchdowns (three passing, three rushing) in Week 14.

Allen is the first player in NFL history to record three touchdown passes and three rushing touchdowns in a single game.

Allen joined Kordell Stewart as the only players in NFL history with at least three touchdown passes and two rushing touchdowns in multiple career games.

Allen has five career games with at least two touchdown passes and two rushing touchdowns, surpassing Pro Football Hall of Famer Steve Young (four games) for the most in NFL history.

Allen has 11 career games with at least two rushing touchdowns, surpassing Cam Newton (10 games) for the second-most by a quarterback in NFL history. Only Jalen Hurts (15 games) has more.

Allen has nine rushing touchdowns this season, his fifth-career season with at least eight rushing touchdowns, the most by a quarterback in NFL history.

  • The Philadelphia Eagles totaled 209 rushing yards in their 22-16 victory over Carolina, as quarterback Jalen Hurts recorded three touchdowns (two passing, one rushing) and running back Saquon Barkley had 124 rushing yards.

Philadelphia is the first team since Washington in 1983 with at least 100 rushing yards and a rushing touchdown in 12 of their first 13 games of a season.

Hurts has 36 career games with a rushing touchdown, tied with Pro Football Hall of Famer Steve Young (36 games) for the third-most by a quarterback in NFL history. Only Cam Newton (64) and Josh Allen (50) have more.

Hurts has 13 rushing touchdowns in 2024, his third-consecutive season with at least 13 rushing touchdowns. He becomes the fourth player since 2000 to record at least 13 rushing touchdowns in three-or-more consecutive seasons, joining Pro Football Hall of Famer LaDainian Tomlinson (six straight seasons from 2002-07), Shaun Alexander (five straight from 2001-05) and Priest Holmes (three straight from 2002-04).

Barkley has a Philadelphia franchise-record 1,623 rushing yards this season, the second-most by a player in his first 13 games of a season since 2000, trailing only Chris Johnson (1,626 in 2009).

  • Minnesota quarterback Sam Darnold completed 22 of 28 pass attempts (78.6 percent) for 347 yards and five touchdowns with no interceptions and a 157.9 passer rating in the Vikings’ 42-21 victory over Atlanta.

Wide receiver Jordan Addison recorded eight receptions for 133 and three touchdowns – including a 49-yard touchdown reception – and wide receiver Justin Jefferson totaled seven receptions for 132 yards and two touchdowns in the victory.

Darnold is the ninth quarterback in NFL history and first since Aaron Rodgers on Oct. 20, 2019 with at least 325 passing yards, five touchdown passes, a completion percentage of 75-or-higher and a passer rating of 155-or-higher with no interceptions in a game.

Jefferson has 7,069 career receiving yards in 73 games, surpassing Torry Holt (82 games) as the third-fastest player in NFL history to reach 7,000 receiving yards. Only Pro Football Hall of Famer Lance Alworth (72 games) and Julio Jones (72) reached the mark in fewer games.

Today marked Jefferson’s 33rd career game with at least 100 receiving yards and 22nd career game with at least 125 receiving yards, both the most-ever by a player in his first five seasons.

Jefferson has 18 career games with at least 100 receiving yards and a touchdown reception, surpassing Charley Hennigan (18 games) for the fourth-most ever by a player in his first five seasons. Only Pro Football Hall of Famers Lance Alworth (24), Randy Moss (24) and Jerry Rice (21) have more.

Addison has five career touchdown receptions of at least 40 yards, becoming the first player with at least five touchdown receptions of at least 40 yards in his first two seasons since Ja’Marr Chase (eight touchdowns from 2021-22).

  • Miami quarterback Tua Tagovailoa completed 33 of 47 pass attempts (70.2 percent) for 331 yards and two touchdowns with no interceptions and a 104.1 passer rating, while wide receiver Tyreek Hill recorded 10 receptions for 115 yards and a touchdown in the Dolphins’ 32-26 victory over the New York Jets in overtime.

Tagovailoa – who completed 29 of 40 passes with four touchdowns and no interceptions in Week 12 and completed 37 of 46 passes with two touchdowns and no interceptions in Week 13 – is the first player in NFL history with at least 40 pass attempts, multiple touchdown passes and no interceptions in three consecutive games within a single season.

Hill has 11 career games with at least 10 receptions, 100 receiving yards and a touchdown reception, tied with Antonio Brown (11 games) and Michael Thomas (11) for the second-most such games by a player in his first nine seasons in NFL history. Only Davante Adams (14 games) has more.

Hill has five touchdown receptions in 2024, becoming the fifth player ever with at least five touchdown receptions in each of his first nine seasons, joining Pro Football Hall of Famers Marvin Harrison and Don Hutson as well as Marques Colston and Amari Cooper.

  • San Francisco quarterback Brock Purdy completed 20 of 25 pass attempts (80 percent) for 325 yards and two touchdowns with no interceptions and a 145.4 passer rating, while tight end George Kittle recorded six receptions for 151 yards in the 49ers’ 38-13 victory over Chicago.

Purdy has six career games with a passer rating of 140-or-higher, surpassing Ed Brown (five games from 1954-56) and Frank Filchock (five games from 1939-40) for the most such games by a quarterback in his first three seasons in NFL history

Purdy has 13 career games with a passer rating of 120-or-higher, surpassing Russell Wilson (12 games) for the most such games by a quarterback in his first three seasons in NFL history

Kittle has 7,074 receiving yards in 109 career games, surpassing Antonio Gates (119 games) as the third-fastest tight end to reach 7,000 receiving yards in NFL history. Only Rob Gronkowski (100 games) and Travis Kelce (104) reached the mark in fewer games.

Kittle has 19 career games with at least 100 receiving yards, surpassing Antonio Gates (18 games) and Pro Football Hall of Famer Jackie Smith (18) for the fourth-most by a tight end in his first eight seasons in NFL history. Only Rob Gronkowski (26 games), Travis Kelce (25) and Pro Football Hall of Famer Kellen Winslow Sr. (24) have more.

Kittle has five career games with at least 150 receiving yards, becoming the third tight end in NFL history with five such career games, joining Pro Football Hall of Famer Shannon Sharpe (six games) and Travis Kelce (five, heading into Sunday Night Football).

  • Additional notes from Week 14:
  • Pittsburgh quarterback Russell Wilson recorded two touchdown passes with no interceptions as the Steelers improved to 10-3 with a 27-14 victory over Cleveland.
    • Wilson has 73 career games with at least two touchdown passes and no interceptions, tied with Pro Football Hall of Famer Peyton Manning (73 games) for the fifth-most such games in NFL history. Only Tom Brady (122 games), Aaron Rodgers (108), Drew Brees (88) and Pro Football Hall of Famer Brett Favre (74) have more.
  • The New York Jets’ Aaron Rodgers and Davante Adams connected for a touchdown in Week 14, their 79th touchdown connection, including the postseason, and third this season.
    • Rodgers and Adams surpassed Ben Roethlisberger and Antonio Brown (78 touchdowns) for the fourth-most touchdown connections between a quarterback-wide receiver duo in NFL history, including the postseason. Only the Pro Football Hall of Fame duos of Peyton Manning and Marvin Harrison (114 touchdowns) and Steve Young and Jerry Rice (92), as well as Hall of Famer Dan Marino and Mark Clayton (82) have more.
  • Carolina wide receiver Adam Thielen recorded nine receptions for 102 yards in Week 14.
    • Thielen has 8,063 career receiving yards, becoming the fourth undrafted player in the common-draft era with at least 8,000 career receiving yards, joining Antonio Gates (11,841 receiving yards), Rod Smith (11,389) and Wes Welker (9,924).

      Thielen has 25 career games with at least 100 receiving yards, joining Rod Smith (30 games) and Wes Welker (28) as the only undrafted players since 1967 with 25 career games with 100-or-more receiving yards.

  • Las Vegas tight end Brock Bowers recorded three receptions for 49 yards in Week 14.
    • Bowers has 87 receptions this season, surpassing Sam LaPorta (86 receptions in 2023) for the most receptions by a rookie tight end in NFL history.

      Bowers has 933 receiving yards, surpassing Jeremy Shockey (894 receiving yards in 2002) for the third-most receiving yards by a rookie tight end in NFL history. Only Pro Football Hall of Famer Mike Ditka (1,076 receiving yards in 1961) and Kyle Pitts (1,026 in 2021) have more.
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