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Jerimiah Smith Breaks Cris Carter’s Record in Shutout

By
Nathan Boggs
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Ohio State delivered a commanding 45-0 victory over Purdue at home, boosting their season record to 8-1. The Buckeyes were in control from the outset, with a pivotal play early in the first quarter when they blocked a Purdue punt, setting them up at the Boilermakers’ 8-yard line. Ohio State capitalized quickly, with Will Howard rushing for a touchdown, giving the Buckeyes a 7-0 lead. From there, they never looked back, scoring on their next two drives to take a dominant 21-0 lead into halftime.

Why Ohio State football's win vs. Purdue provided a glimpse of the 2025 Buckeyes - cleveland.com

Photo Cred: Cleveland.com

Just before the break, Howard connected with standout freshman Jerimiah Smith on a 17-yard crossing route for a touchdown. This was Smith’s ninth receiving touchdown of the season, breaking Ohio State legend Cris Carter’s freshman touchdown record. Smith also set new Ohio State freshman records for receptions, with 45, and receiving yards, with 765. He finished the game with 6 catches for 87 yards and a touchdown, continuing his impressive season.

Howard had an outstanding day at quarterback, completing 21 of 26 passes for 260 yards and three touchdowns. He also added a rushing score, leading a balanced and efficient offense that saw eight different Buckeyes catch passes. The ground game complemented Howard’s performance, with Ohio State piling up 173 rushing yards as a team. The offense, now firing on all cylinders, appears to be peaking at the right time as the Buckeyes approach the end of the regular season.

Ohio State kept the pressure on in the second half, scoring on their first three drives and adding a defensive touchdown to seal the blowout at 45-0. The Buckeye defense was relentless, recording four sacks, five tackles for loss, and forcing two turnovers, all while pitching a shutout. It was a comprehensive performance of complementary football, with both the offense and defense dominating the game.

Why Ohio State football's win vs. Purdue provided a glimpse of the 2025 Buckeyes - cleveland.com

Photo Cred: Cleveland.com

Though Purdue entered the game with a 1-7 record, Ohio State’s dominance was still impressive, showing they can handle business against overmatched opponents. The Buckeyes now turn their attention to a road trip to Chicago, where they’ll face Northwestern in another game where they’ll be heavy favorites. However, tougher challenges loom, as Ohio State will finish the regular season with back-to-back games against No. 8 Indiana and bitter rival Michigan. The Indiana matchup will carry significant Big Ten Championship implications, while the Michigan game presents an opportunity for the Buckeyes to break a three-game losing streak against their storied rivals.

The Cavaliers are the Biggest Surprise in the NBA Season

By
Nathan Boggs
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As the NBA season has started, the Cleveland Cavaliers have stunned the league, boasting a perfect 12-0 record. This is a remarkable turnaround from the previous season, where the Cavaliers finished as the 4th seed in the Eastern Conference. Their 2023-2024 campaign saw them battle through a grueling first-round playoff series against the Orlando Magic, ultimately winning 4-3. However, their postseason hopes were dashed when they faced the Boston Celtics in the second round, losing the series 4-1.

NBA round-up: Cleveland Cavaliers continue winning run with victory over Chicago Bulls - BBC Sport

Photo Cred: BBC

Following this disappointing playoff exit, the Cavaliers made a bold decision to part ways with head coach JB Bickerstaff. Bickerstaff, who had been with the organization since 2019 posted a 170-159 record during his tenure. He led the team to the play-in tournament and the playoffs twice. But despite the team’s occasional successes, there was a lingering sense of underachievement. Darius Garland, who had shown flashes of brilliance, struggled with consistency, and although Donovan Mitchell’s leadership led to wins, the team often lacked cohesion and failed to maintain momentum.

In the offseason, the Cavaliers refrained from making any major roster changes, opting instead for a leadership shift. They hired Kenny Atkinson, a seasoned assistant coach from the Golden State Warriors. Atkinson, who had helped guide the Warriors to an NBA championship in 2022, was handed the same roster Bickerstaff had but was tasked with maximizing its potential. After a summer of preparation, the results have been nothing short of extraordinary. The Cavaliers are now 11-0, becoming the first team since the 2015-16 Warriors, who finished the season 73-9, to start a season with 10 consecutive wins.

Where to watch Cavs vs. Pelicans NBA FREE STREAM today - cleveland.com

Photo Cred: Cleveland.com

Cleveland’s success can largely be attributed to their offensive firepower and unselfish team play. They lead the league in offensive rating and shooting percentage, with three of their starters averaging over 18 points per game—Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, and Evan Mobley—while Jarrett Allen closely follows with 14 points per game. Beyond individual performances, the Cavaliers have dominated opponents on both ends of the floor. Their recent 41-point halftime lead against the Golden State Warriors is a testament to their overwhelming dominance.

What’s most impressive is how fluid and cohesive the team has become under Atkinson’s leadership. Darius Garland, who had struggled to regain his All-Star form from 2022, has rediscovered his shooting touch. He’s playing with renewed confidence. Evan Mobley, now stronger and more assertive, has become a force in the paint, and Donovan Mitchell and Jarrett Allen have continued their consistent, high-level play. The Cavaliers’ bench has also been a critical factor. They are contributing an impressive 40 points per game, ensuring that the team maintains its intensity even when the starters are resting.

Cavaliers Head Coach Knows He Has ...

Photo Cred: SI

Atkinson seems to have unlocked something special within this group. He transformed a team that once lacked consistency into a well-oiled machine. The Cavs are not just winning games—they’re dominating from start to finish. Fans and analysts alike can see a palpable shift in the team’s mentality. They play with freedom, selflessness, and confidence. If their early season form is any indication, the Cleveland Cavaliers are poised to be a serious contender for the championship this year.

Oregon Ducks Show their No 1 Ranking isn’t a Fluke

By
Kellan Quinn
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The No. 1 Oregon Ducks may have gotten the victory on Saturday against the Maryland Terrapins, but it was far from their best performance of the season. Despite a comfortable 21-point win, Oregon’s sloppy play left plenty to be desired and gave fans and analysts plenty to talk about. One of the few bright spots for the Ducks was quarterback Dillon Gabriel, who made history with a significant milestone. His touchdown pass to backup lineman Gernnoris Wilson early in the second half brought his total to 179 touchdowns in his NCAA career, breaking former NFL quarterback Case Keenum’s record set during his time at the University of Houston.

Oregon Ducks Football: What We Learned vs Maryland | FishDuck

Photo Cred: FishDuck

Gabriel’s historic moment highlighted the night, but it couldn’t fully overshadow Oregon’s struggles on the field. From the very first possession, it was clear that this wasn’t going to be a smooth ride for the Ducks. On Maryland’s opening drive, Oregon managed to force a punt, but a roughing-the-kicker penalty gave the Terrapins new life, allowing them to march down the field and settle for a field goal. This was just the beginning of a long night for Oregon in the penalty department, as the team racked up 12 penalties for 95 yards—nearly three times their usual total.

Head coach Dan Lanning didn’t sugarcoat his team’s mistakes. “We weren’t focused. I feel like our guys had good energy and enthusiasm, but we put ourselves in bad spots defensively and hurt ourselves with pre-snap penalties on offense,” Lanning said in a post-game interview. While Oregon was far from sharp, Maryland had an even rougher night. Quarterback Billy Edwards Jr. struggled to find his rhythm, completing just 22 of 44 passes for 206 yards.

Oregon-Maryland score today: Live updates, channel for Week 11 game

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Though he managed to throw one touchdown, his performance was marred by three costly turnovers—two interceptions and a fumble that was returned for a scoop-and-score touchdown by Oregon. These mistakes proved too much for the Terrapins to overcome. One bright spot for Maryland was wide receiver Ty Felton, who quietly put together an impressive game.

Felton hauled in seven catches for 72 yards, providing the Terrapins with their only consistent offensive threat throughout the night. However, his efforts weren’t enough to shift the tide in Maryland’s favor. As the Ducks move forward, they’ll look to clean up their mistakes and regain their dominant form when they travel east to face the Wisconsin Badgers in Madison.

Seven From Sunday – Week 10

By
Stephen Patrick
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Photo Cred: NFL
NEW YORK –– Nov. 10, 2024 –– A look at seven statistical highlights from games played during the 9:30 a.m., 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. ET windows on Sunday, November 10, the 10th week of the 2024 season.

  • With two games remaining in Week 10, eight games were within one score (eight points) in the fourth quarter and seven games were decided by six-or-fewer points, including three teams – Baltimore, Carolina and San Francisco – that recorded the game-winning points in the final two minutes of regulation or in overtime.There have been 82 games decided by seven-or-fewer points and 72 games decided by six-or-fewer points this season, both the most such games through Week 10 in NFL history.

    Kansas City linebacker Leo Chenal blocked a field goal on the final play of regulation in the Chiefs’ 16-14 comeback win over Denver to improve to 9-0 this season and become the fifth reigning Super Bowl champion to win its first nine games, joining the 2011 Green Bay Packers (began 13-0), 1998 Denver Broncos (began 13-0), 2015 New England Patriots (began 10-0) and 1990 San Francisco 49ers (began 10-0).

    Chenal is the second player in the past 10 seasons (2015-24) to block a field goal on the final play to win, joining Payton Turner (Sept. 11, 2022, with New Orleans).

    The Los Angeles Chargers defeated Tennessee, 27-17, and became the fourth team since 1990 to allow 20-or-fewer points in each of their first nine games of a season, joining the 1990 New York Giants (first 10 games), 2013 Kansas City Chiefs (first nine) and 1999 Jacksonville Jaguars (first nine).

  • Philadelphia quarterback Jalen Hurts totaled four touchdowns (two passing, two rushing) and a 115.0 rating in the Eagles’ 34-6 win at Dallas.Hurts has 10 rushing touchdowns this season and is the first quarterback in NFL history to reach the mark in four consecutive seasons and in four career seasons.

    Hurts is the first quarterback in NFL history with a touchdown pass, a rushing touchdown and a passer rating of 100-or-higher in four consecutive games, surpassing Jim Hart (three consecutive games in 1968 with the St. Louis Cardinals), Jeff Hostetler (three in 1993 with the Los Angeles Raiders) and Lamar Jackson (three in 2020 with the Baltimore Ravens).

    Hurts is the sixth quarterback since 1970 with both a passing touchdown and a rushing touchdown in four consecutive games in a single season, joining Justin Fields (five consecutive games in 2022), Kyler Murray (five in 2020), Josh Allen (four, twice, in 2023), Joshua Dobbs (four in 2023) and Michael Vick (four in 2010).

  • Kansas City tight end Travis Kelce recorded eight receptions for 64 yards and one touchdown in the Chiefs’ Week 10 win over Denver.Kelce has 95 career touchdown receptions, including the postseason, and surpassed Jimmy Graham (94 touchdown receptions) for the fourth-most touchdown receptions by a tight end in NFL history, including the postseason. Only Antonio Gates (118), Pro Football Hall of Famer Tony Gonzalez (115) and Rob Gronkowski (107) have more.

    Kelce has 60 receptions this season and is the sixth player all-time with at least 60 receptions in 11 consecutive seasons, joining Larry Fitzgerald (15), Jason Witten (15), Pro Football Hall of Famers Tony Gonzalez (15) and Jerry Rice (11) as well as Derrick Mason (11).

  • San Francisco quarterback Brock Purdy, in his 15th-career regular-season road start, passed for 353 yards with two touchdowns and a 119.3 rating in the 49ers’ 23-20 win at Tampa Bay.Purdy has 13 career games with at least two touchdown passes and a passer rating of 115-or-higher, tied with Justin Herbert (13 games) for the second-most such games by a quarterback in his first three seasons in NFL history. Only Patrick Mahomes (14 games) and Russell Wilson (14) have more.

    Purdy became the second quarterback since 1950 with a passer rating of 100-or-higher in 10 of his first 15 career road starts, joining Patrick Mahomes (11 starts).

  • Buffalo quarterback Josh Allen totaled 330 yards (280 passing, 50 rushing) with a rushing touchdown in the Bills’ 30-20 win at Indianapolis.Allen has 71 career regular-season wins and surpassed Tom Brady (70) for the fourth-most regular-season wins by a quarterback in his first seven seasons in NFL history. Only Russell Wilson (75), Patrick Mahomes (74) and Joe Flacco (72) have more.
  • Arizona quarterback Kyler Murray recorded three touchdowns (two rushing, one passing) in the Cardinals’ 31-6 win over the New York Jets.Murray has 30 career rushing touchdowns and became the fifth quarterback ever with at least 30 rushing touchdowns in his first six seasons, joining Josh Allen (53), Jalen Hurts (51 in first four seasons), Cam Newton (48) and Pro Football Hall of Famer Otto Graham (33).

    Murray is the fourth quarterback in NFL history to record at least three rushing touchdowns in each of his first six seasons, joining Josh Allen, Pro Football Hall of Famer Otto Graham and Cam Newton.

  • Carolina running back Chuba Hubbard rushed for 153 yards and one touchdown in the Panthers’ 20-17 win in overtime over the New York Giants in Munich, Germany.The Panthers win in Week 10 marked the third-ever international game to go to overtime, along with Cincinnati (27) and Washington (27) on Oct. 30, 2016, at Wembley Stadium in London, and Atlanta (34) and Buffalo (31) on Dec. 1, 2013 at Rogers Centre in Toronto, Canada).

    Hubbard is the fourth player to rush for at least 150 yards in an international game, joining Chris Ivory (166 rushing yards on Oct. 4, 2015, with the New York Jets), Carlos Hyde (160 rushing yards on Nov. 3, 2019, with Houston) and Travis Etienne (156 rushing yards on Oct. 30, 2022, with Jacksonville), with each of the three previous occurrences happening at Wembley Stadium in London.

  • Additional notes from Sunday include:
    • New Orleans running back Alvin Kamara had 109 scrimmage yards (55 rushing, 54 receiving) in the Saints’ 20-17 win over Atlanta.Kamara has 6,544 rushing yards and surpassed Mark Ingram (6,500 rushing yards) as the all-time leading rusher in Saints franchise history.

      Kamara has 24 career games with at least 50 rushing yards and 50 receiving yards, surpassing Tiki Barber (23 games) and Pro Football Hall of Famer LaDainian Tomlinson (23) for the third-most such games in NFL history. Only Pro Football Hall of Famer Marshall Faulk (41) and Christian McCaffrey (30) have more.

      Kamara has 1,136 scrimmage yards this season and is the third player since 2000 with at least 1,100 scrimmage yards in each of his first eight seasons, joining Matt Forte and Pro Football Hall of Famer LaDainian Tomlinson.

    • New York Giants rookie wide receiver Malik Nabers had six receptions in Munich and has 61 receptions this season, tied with Puka Nacua (61 receptions) for the most receptions by a player in his first eight career games in NFL history.
    • Chicago wide receiver Keenan Allen had five receptions in Week 10 and has 930 receptions in 146 career games, surpassing Antonio Brown (928 receptions) for the most receptions by a player in his first 150 career games in NFL history.
For more from NFL Communications, visit  media.nfl.com

FWAA-NFF Super 16 Poll: Week 11 Rankings (Nov. 10)

By
Memphis Spence
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FWAA-NFF Super 16 Poll: Week 11 Rankings (Nov. 10)

Ayokunle Spencer released his FWAA-NFF Super 16 Poll for Week 11, highlighting the top teams in college football as voted by a distinguished panel of experts. Oregon leads the rankings at No. 1, with Ohio State and Texas rounding out the top three. Notable movers this week include Indiana, now sitting at No. 4, and BYU climbing to No. 5.

Oregon Ducks Football 2024 Predictions and Preview - VSiN

Photo Cred: VSIN

Here is a breakdown of the Week 11 rankings:

  1. Oregon
  2. Ohio State
  3. Texas
  4. Indiana
  5. BYU
  6. Tennessee
  7. Notre Dame
  8. Penn State
  9. Ole Miss
  10. Georgia
  11. SMU
  12. Miami (FL)
  13. Texas A&M
  14. Alabama
  15. Boise State
  16. Army West Point

As the season heads into its final stretch, teams continue to jockey for positioning in the polls, with many vying for a spot in the coveted College Football Playoff. Week 12 promises to bring more excitement as these programs face tough competition, and the rankings may shift once again.

The Lombardi Award™ Committee Releases the 12 Semifinalist

By
Stephen Patrick
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The Lombardi Award™ Committee Releases the 12 Semifinalist

HOUSTON (November 7, 2024) – The Lombardi Award™ Committee is excited to announce the 12 semifinalists for the 2024 Lombardi Award™. These athletes, selected from a preseason watchlist of over 90 players, are the very best from all FBS conferences and independents and represent the key values of character, discipline, and excellence.

2024 marks the 51st anniversary of the award which has been handed out in Houston, Texas since its inception. This year’s award dinner will take place on December 11, 2024, and net proceeds from gala sponsorship and table sales are dedicated to supporting cancer research and families and patients battling cancer.

The Lombardi Award™ was established in 1970 in memory of legendary coach Vince Lombardi. It is presented to outstanding linemen who best epitomize his values of leadership, courage, performance and discipline on and off the field. These semifinalist are consistently showing the values of strength, agility, and football acumen in their respective positions.

The Lombardi Award™ represents much more than the distinction involved. It memorializes the perspiration, dedication, and perseverance of these exceptional athletes. As they compete on the gridiron, they inspire future generations of football players and continue the legacy of a coaching icon.

2024 Lombardi Award Semifinalists

AAC Army Kyle Lewis DL
AAC Boston College Donovan Ezeiruaku DE
AAC Navy Colin Ramos LB
ACC Virginia Tech Antwaun Powell-Ryland DL
Big 10 Iowa Jay Higgins LB
Big 10 Penn State Abdul Carter DE
SEC Georgia Mykel Williams LOLB
SEC LSU Will Campbell OT
SEC South Carolina Kyle Kennard Edge
SEC Tennessee James Pearce Jr. DE
SEC Texas A&M Nic Scourton DE
SEC Texas Kelvin Banks Jr OT

For more information, click here.

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Coach Cal at Arkansas- A UK Fan’s Perspective

By
Andrew Bruner
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Photo Cred: West Kentucky Star - Sports

Getting what you wish for can be funny, can’t it? In March, you might recall that I raged about Kentucky’s third straight postseason failure. I questioned whether it was time for John Calipari to go. Then, on April 10, after 15 long years in the bluegrass state, Coach Cal made the surprising decision to leave UK for the head coaching position at the University of Arkansas.  

Ultimately, I got what I wanted, but that doesn’t mean the decision doesn’t sting. Knowing that the university had already announced he would return, only for him to change his mind and leave will do that to a person. According to some reports, we no longer owe him as much money as we did because he breached his contract by talking to Arkansas. If I look at it that way, it’s not so upsetting. Many of us Kentucky fans got what we wanted, and our school may pay him less on the way out. 

Everything Calipari said in first Arkansas press conference | Lexington Herald Leader

Photo Cred: Lexington Herald Leader 

I feel much more mellow-headed about this move from Coach Cal than many other Kentucky fans seem. As I stated before, it was time for a change, and I’m glad that one is coming. Many fans are angry with Calipari about how he’s leaving, but I can’t say I’m in that same boat. Whatever you think of him, he’s earned the right to save his reputation by leaving UK before he gets fired. There’s no way he didn’t know that he was on the hot seat for us heading into next year. While many are upset, I respect it.  

In his parting press conference, Calipari had this to say about his time in Kentucky: “Again, it’s been a dream, what we’ve been able to do for 15 years. Time for another voice. And you know I’m always going to be a fan. Thank you.” How can I be upset with the man when I completely agree with what he said? The four keywords in this sentence are “Time for another voice.” Coach Cal just summed up the entire article I wrote in March in four simple words. I respect that he can recognize that what he was doing here wasn’t quite working to the level we’d all like and that things could possibly change with another voice.  

John Calipari is leaving Kentucky basketball for Arkansas | Kentucky Wildcats Podcast - YouTube

Photo Cred: YouTube 

Maybe his way can still work, but he probably needs to start from the very beginning once again to do it. Kentucky was no longer willing to wait to see if he could find that spark again. The pressure is just too high to justify it. We’re second all-time in NCAA tournament wins and the one team with a shot of surpassing UCLA’s 11 wins. Every Kentucky fan would like to see us overtake that spot in our lifetimes! We just weren’t on the right track with Calipari these past few years. You’ll never hear him say it, but he was ultimately looking for a job with lower stakes and more security. There’s nothing wrong with him wanting that, just like there’s nothing wrong with Kentucky fans being happy he’s gone.  

I wish the basketball Hall of Famer luck and a thank you for that 2012 championship! Coach Cal, you’ve earned your spot in the Hall of Fame, but it’s time for a new voice in the Kentucky locker room. While I have no idea how Calipari’s return to Rupp Arena will go, I know it will be entertaining. Even if Kentucky fans feel harshly, it’s best to be grateful for what the guy gave you and hope his decision was best for both sides. UK fans, don’t worry, I have something to say about the Mark Pope hire too! 

Wildcats Roll To 8th NCAA Title, Coach Calipari's 1st | WYSO

Photo Cred: WYSO

Will Lamar Jackson Win His Third NFL MVP?

By
Sean Tessler
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0

Lamar Jackson currently leads the league in yards per attempt (9.3) and touchdown-to-interception ratio (20-to-2). He’s also doing this while working with three new starters on the offensive line. This season, Jackson has converted 44.7% of his pass attempts into first downs—an elite mark. And this season the Cincinatti Bengals have had front row view of Jackson this year.

Lamar Jackson desperately rallies Ravens, falls 27-20 to Chiefs for 5th loss in 6 meetings – KGET 17

Photo Cred: KGET

Despite a late rally from Joe Burrow and Jamar Chase, the Ravens held on to improve to 7-3. The game started slowly, with both defenses dominating early. Baltimore’s high-powered offense was stifled in the first half, as Cincinnati held Derrick Henry in check and limited the Ravens to just seven points—their lowest first-half total of the season. The Ravens’ defense also held strong, forcing multiple Cincinnati punts. But the Bengals dominated time of possession, nearly doubling Baltimore’s in the first 30 minutes. Despite this, Cincinnati led only 14-7 at halftime, keeping the game within reach.

Early in the third quarter, it looked like the Bengals were ready to pull away. After a Ravens punt, Burrow immediately hit Chase for a 67-yard touchdown, electrifying the Cincinnati crowd and giving the Bengals a two-score lead. Their defense followed up with another stop, giving the ball back to Burrow and his offense. But momentum shifted midway through the third quarter when the Ravens’ defense forced a crucial fumble from running back Chase Brown. Baltimore wasted no time capitalizing, scoring four consecutive touchdowns to surge ahead. By the time they reached the end zone for the last time, the Ravens had turned the game around, leading 35-28.

Lamar Jackson injures hand: Ravens QB hurt vs Bengals Thursday night

Photo Cred: USA Today

With under two minutes left in the game, the Bengals launched one final drive. Burrow led them downfield with precision, converting a key fourth down to keep their hopes alive. With just 50 seconds remaining, Burrow found Chase for what appeared to be the game-tying touchdown. Rather than playing for overtime, the Bengals opted for a two-point conversion to win it outright. On the deciding play, the Ravens’ defense came up big, forcing Burrow into an incomplete pass and preserving their slim lead. A successful onside kick recovery by Baltimore sealed the 35-34 victory, preventing Cincinnati’s comeback from becoming a reality.

The Bengals were frustrated after the game, as two controversial non-calls on the Ravens’ defense went unaddressed. Tight end Mike Gesicki appeared to be held on the two-point attempt, and Burrow may have taken a hit to the facemask as he released the ball. Either call could have given Cincinnati a chance to win. The loss drops the Bengals to 4-6 as they prepare to face the LA Chargers next week on Sunday Night Football. Meanwhile, the Ravens will look to extend their division lead when they face the Pittsburgh Steelers on CBS.

NFL Celebrates U.S. Military Through Salute to Service

By
Stephen Patrick
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0
NEW YORK – Nov. 7, 2024 – The NFL announced today the continued support of Salute to Service, the league’s commitment to honor, empower and connect with the country’s military community. Throughout the month of November, the collective NFL family, including all 32 clubs and players, will reinforce their support and gratitude to those who have and continue to serve. Salute to Service will come to life on-field during Weeks 10-12 of the regular season and will be complemented by special events and activations in communities across the country.

“Every day, the brave men, women, and families serving in our armed forces make countless sacrifices to uphold our great nation’s freedom and security. Because of their sacrifice, the entire NFL family can participate in and enjoy the game of football,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. “Salute to Service represents our year-round commitment to the military community, and we are proud to recognize and honor our country’s service members, veterans and their families.”

Salute to Service is anchored through league partnerships with five charitable organizations that support the military community: the Bob Woodruff Foundation, Pat Tillman Foundation, Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), the United Service Organizations (USO) and Wounded Warrior Project. Since 2011, the NFL has raised more than $73 million for our Salute to Service charitable partners to help advance their ongoing missions to uplift our nation’s military community through targeted programs, resources and support.

USAA, an official NFL Salute to Service partner, has honored and appreciated active-duty military, veterans and their families alongside the NFL since Salute to Service was created in 2011. This partnership creates exclusive opportunities that bring the military community and the NFL closer together on a year-round basis through visits to military installations and by hosting thousands of military members and their families at events including the NFL Draft, training camps, Salute to Service games, and the Super Bowl.

Salute to Service Charitable Partners

Alongside our Salute to Service charitable partners, the NFL works to engage and support service members, veterans and their families in communities across the globe.

  • Bob Woodruff Foundation – The NFL works with the Bob Woodruff Foundation (BWF) to ensure that our nation’s veterans, service members, their families and their caregivers have stable and successful futures. Through this partnership, the NFL and BWF provide vital grants and funds to veterans’ support organizations across the country to support our nation’s veterans. The NFL-BWF Salute to Service grant pipeline has collectively served more than 611,000 veterans through 110 grants. As part of the NFL-BWF Salute to Service grant portfolio, the NFL teams up with the BWF and Move United to help fund the USA Wheelchair Football League, a first of its kind football league for adults with disabilities, particularly veterans, to reach their highest potential through a competitive, fast-paced, team sport. Throughout the year, the NFL and BWF team up to host marquee USA Wheelchair Football League events honoring veterans who participate in the league at NFL tentpole events, including the 2024 NFL Draft and Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans.
  • Pat Tillman Foundation – The NFL collaborates with the Pat Tillman Foundation to fund and support remarkable active-duty service members, veterans, and military spouses through scholarships that help them scale their impact as they develop into the next generation of leaders. The legacy of Pat Tillman continues to be carried forward by the nearly 1,000 Tillman Scholars, who are dedicated to service beyond self and embody the principles that Pat stood for: service, scholarship, humble leadership, and impact. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Foundation, which was recently celebrated at the annual Tillman Honors Gala where the NFL was recognized as a Champion Awardee for the league’s continued dedication to the organization’s mission. Learn more about Pat’s impact through interviews with those who knew him best, including his former teammate, NFL Legend Jake Plummer, and the owner of the Arizona Cardinals, Michael Bidwill.
  • Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) – The NFL partners with Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) to directly fund core programming that supports all those grieving the loss of a military or veteran loved one, including by providing unique opportunities for surviving families to come together around the game of football. Recently, the NFL facilitated a trip for TAPS families to watch the New York Jets take on the Minnesota Vikings in the first international game in London during the 2024-2025 regular season. During the trip, these families were connected with families in the U.K. who are similarly mourning the loss of a service member to build bonds and connections with surviving families overseas.
  • USO – For nearly 60 years, the NFL has partnered with the USO to express gratitude and thanks to the people serving in our nation’s military. This includes funding the development of USO centers at military bases across the globe. Central to this partnership is the annual NFL-USO Tour, which connects NFL players and Legends with U.S. service members and their families at military bases overseas. The NFL also continues to team up with the USO on the Salute to Service Showdown, an EA SPORTS™ Madden NFL 25 tournament bringing U.S. active-duty, Reserve and National Guard members around the world together through the fun of football and gaming. The tournament kicked off in September with qualifiers participating from regions around the world. The top eight service members will participate in the tournament finals at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Salute to Service game on November 10 when they host the San Francisco 49ers. The winners of the tournament will receive tickets and travel accommodations to Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans.
  • Wounded Warrior Project – Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) provides free, life-changing support to post-9/11 veterans, families, and caregivers. Since 2011, the NFL has proudly partnered with WWP to invest in diverse, impactful programs like Project Odyssey that help warriors and their families heal, strengthen resilience, boost self-confidence, and build lasting connections that sustain their mental wellness and overall well-being.

Salute to Service On-Field and During Broadcast

During Weeks 10-12, Salute to Service will come to life on-field with stencils, banners, goal post wraps, game balls, helmet decals, and custom Wilson, New Era and Nike gear. Salute to Service apparel is available for purchase at NFL Shop and in stadium retail stores. The NFL does not profit from the sale of Salute to Service products, with proceeds donated to the NFL’s Salute to Service charitable partners. Fans can also bid on authentic, game-worn gear and other memorabilia to raise money for the NFL’s Salute to Service charitable partners. Text STSBID to 635635 and opt-in or visit NFL Auction to bid.

As part of this year’s broader “We See You” umbrella marketing campaign and building upon the concept of Everyday Strength, this season’s Salute to Service broadcast spot features Los Angeles Chargers’ defensive end Morgan Fox. With a father who is an Army Veteran and a Wounded Warrior Project member, Morgan serves as a role model in the military community by helping veterans manage their invisible wounds, such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression. The spot will air in broadcast during Weeks 10-12 and will also come to life through the NFL’s social and digital platforms. View the spot here.

Salute to Service Award Presented by USAA

Last week, the NFL and USAA announced the 2024 nominees for the annual NFL Salute to Service Award presented by USAA. The Salute to Service Award recognizes NFL players, coaches, staff and alumni who have demonstrated a commitment to honoring and supporting military and veteran communities.

Returning this year is an opportunity for fans to vote for their favorite nominee to help determine the award’s three finalists. To see all the nominees and vote, fans can visit NFL.com/SaluteFanVote from now until the end of November. One vote per day, per fan is permitted. The finalists will be announced in January, and the recipient will be recognized at NFL Honors, a primetime awards special to air nationally in February during the week of Super Bowl LIX. For more information on how USAA honors and appreciates our military, please visit www.usaa.com/NFL.

Salute to Service Career Summit Presented by NFL Player Care Foundation (PCF)

The NFL Player Care Foundation (PCF) will host the inaugural Salute to Service Career Summit to educate NFL Legends about career opportunities in the military and government. The NFL Player Care Foundation (PCF) is an independent organization dedicated to helping retired players improve their quality of life, including through workforce development and career programs. In addition to the military, Department of Defense (DoD), and more, NFL Salute to Service charitable partners, including the Bob Woodruff Foundation, Pat Tillman Foundation, USO and Wounded Warrior Project, will participate in the event to network with NFL Legends and discuss career pathways at their organizations.

Collaboration with NFL Partners to Support Our Nation’s Service Members and Veterans

The NFL is also proud to collaborate with our league partners to forge a stronger connection with the military community.

TCL is teaming up with the NFL and Salute to Service charitable partner USO to donate TCL big screen TVs up to 98” to USO Centers across the globe. As the Official TV of the NFL, TCL will also take part in this year’s Salute to Service Showdown, gifting finalists of the video game tournament with its award-winning televisions that feature advanced gaming capabilities. TCL will round out their contribution by donating $20,000 to the USO to support the organization’s mission of strengthening the well-being of the people serving in our nation’s military and their families.

Crown Royal launched its new Hall of Heroes program to recognize veterans in communities across the country. Through this program, fans can nominate a veteran in their hometown for the opportunity to be inducted into the first-ever Hall of Heroes at the 2025 NFL Draft in Green Bay, WI alongside NFL Legend Demarcus Ware. Fans can submit their nomination here.

Gillette, the official grooming partner of the NFL, is paying heartfelt homage to service members, veterans and their families with a new limited-edition GilletteLabs razor featuring the NFL Salute to Service Arctic Camo design, available now at Walmart. Through NFL Salute to Service, Gillette is proud to continue its support of Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) with a donation of $250,000, directed to the TAPS Military Mentor program. Through the program, Military Mentors support the children left behind with many things — including teaching them to shave in the absence of a parent at home.

Bread Financial, the service provider for the NFL Extra Points Visa© Credit Card, is donating $100,000 to the Bob Woodruff Foundation (BWF) in support of the USA Wheelchair Football League. The donation, made on behalf of the NFL Extra Points Reward Program and driven by card member sales in early October, represents Bread Financial’s fourth year supporting Salute to Service and our shared commitment to help veterans live more stable and successful lives.

Additionally, NBC Sports Next, the sports technology division of the NFL’s broadcast partner NBC, in November will begin its fourth year of supporting the NFL’s Salute to Service partners through its “Round-Up” campaign. NBC Sports Next is the industry’s leading provider of golf course operations software and services to more than 11,000 courses worldwide, and operates the world’s largest online tee time marketplace through its GolfNow and TeeOff websites. Users booking tee times on GolfNow or TeeOff throughout November will be provided the opportunity to round up the total cost of the reservation to an even-dollar figure, with the additional contribution going to the NFL’s Salute to Service partners.

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About the Bob Woodruff Foundation:

The Bob Woodruff Foundation was founded in 2006 after reporter Bob Woodruff was wounded by a roadside bomb while covering the war in Iraq. Since then, the Bob Woodruff Foundation has raised awareness about the tough challenges veterans and military families are facing, and invested in solutions to help support them in the next chapter of their lives. To date, the Bob Woodruff Foundation has invested over $165 million to ensure that our nation’s veterans, service members, and their families — those who stood for us — have stable and successful futures. Visit the Bob Woodruff Foundation for more information.

About the Pat Tillman Foundation:

The Pat Tillman Foundation identifies remarkable active-duty service members, veterans, and military spouses as the next generation of leaders. It helps them scale their impact as they enter their next chapter of service beyond self through academic scholarships, lifelong leadership development, and a global community of peers and supporters. This year is a significant milestone for the Pat Tillman Foundation as it marks 20 years of honoring Pat’s legacy by investing in the potential of those who have served. For more information on the Pat Tillman Foundation and the impact of the Tillman Scholars, visit pattillmanfoundation.org.

About Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS):

TAPS is the national nonprofit organization providing compassionate care and comprehensive resources for all those grieving a death in the military or veteran community. TAPS — which, in the last 30 years, has become synonymous with 24/7, lifelong support for all grieving a military or veteran death — provides resources during each step of a survivor’s walk through grief with a combination of peer-based support, the 24/7 National Military Survivor Helpline, in-person events, community-based care, casework assistance, and grief and trauma resources. The TAPS mission has touched more than 100,000 survivors, casualty assistance officers, chaplains, and bereavement supporters since its founding.

About the USO:
The USO is the leading nonprofit dedicated to the well-being of all people serving in the U.S. military and their families. Since 1941, the USO has been by the side of service members throughout their military service. Impactful support is provided through our 250+ locations around the world, a robust care package delivery program, global entertainment, military spouse and youth programming, and much more, all made possible by dedicated donors, corporate partners, volunteers and staff. To learn more and support our critical mission around the globe, please visit USO.org or follow us on Facebook, Twitter/X, Instagram and LinkedIn.

About Wounded Warrior Project:

Since 2003, Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) has been meeting the growing needs of warriors, their families, and caregivers — helping them achieve their highest ambition. Learn more about Wounded Warrior Project.

Media Contact:

Ian Martin, Ian.Martin@nfl.com
For more from NFL Communications, visit  media.nfl.com

Voting Begins for 2024 NFL Fan of the Year Presented by Captain Morgan

By
Stephen Patrick
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NEW YORK — Nov. 7, 2024 — The NFL today announced the 32 nominees from all 32 clubs for the 2024 NFL Fan of the Year contest presented by Captain Morgan. This annual celebration recognizes the extraordinary fans who spice up gameday through their unwavering love of football, embody the essence of true fandom, and inspire their community throughout the year.

The chosen nominees will represent their respective teams at Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans on Feb. 9, 2025. Fans can support their favorite nominee by voting online at NFL.com/fanoftheyear until polls close at 11:59 p.m. ET on Feb. 5, 2025.

The contest will identify one winner as the Ultimate Fan of the Year who will be announced at NFL Honors presented by Invisalign, the league’s primetime awards show, during Super Bowl week in New Orleans on Feb. 6, 2024. Additionally, throughout the season, all 32 nominees will receive special prizes and have the opportunity to participate in exclusive experiences.

Fans can visit NFL.com/fanoftheyear, as well as their team’s website and social handles, to discover the stories of these extraordinary nominees and vote for their favorite.

Below are the 32 Fan of the Year nominees:

 Club  Nominee
 Arizona Cardinals  Kenny Salinas
 Atlanta Falcons  Tripp Warrick
 Baltimore Ravens  Cindy Layton
 Buffalo Bills  “The Chefs” – Richard “Poo” Peterson / Derrick “Norm” Norman
 Carolina Panthers  David McClelland
 Chicago Bears  Mackenzie Currans
 Cincinnati Bengals  Jeremy “Bengals Captain” Conley & Jessica “Who Bae” Conley
 Cleveland Browns  Lawrence Schmitz
 Dallas Cowboys  Amanda Foster
 Denver Broncos  Shelly Jenks
 Detroit Lions  Megan Stefanski
 Green Bay Packers  David Lucero
 Houston Texans  Pati Cream
 Indianapolis Colts  Seth Irskens
 Jacksonville Jaguars  Melissa Fullmore
 Kansas City Chiefs  Tom Masterson
 Las Vegas Raiders  Jena Magallanes
 Los Angeles Chargers  James Ebo
 Los Angeles Rams  Gary Young
 Miami Dolphins  Lisa Siegel
 Minnesota Vikings  Betsy Fine
 New England Patriots  Dan Sweeney
 New Orleans Saints  Jonathan Roberts
 New York Giants  Kyle Searfoss
 New York Jets  Joseph Abramski
 Philadelphia Eagles  Frank Crinite
 Pittsburgh Steelers  Taylor Sinnott
 Seattle Seahawks  Terri Fletcher
 San Francisco 49ers  Sofia Villalpando
 Tampa Bay Buccaneers  Matt Algeri
 Tennessee Titans  Adam McMillan
 Washington Commanders  Dale McCord

Additionally, the NFL’s International Fan of the Year contest has returned for its second season, celebrating international fans and expanding its participant pool to nine global markets. Fans from around the world can nominate themselves through Nov. 15, and all 32 international nominees will be announced on Feb. 24, 2025.

Media Contact

Paula Ngon, Paula.Ngon@nfl.com
For more from NFL Communications, visit  media.nfl.com
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