| NEW YORK – Sept. 8, 2024 – Today, Roc Nation, Apple Music, and the NFL announced Kendrick Lamar will perform at the APPLE MUSIC SUPER BOWL LIX HALFTIME SHOW at The Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, LA on Sunday, February 9, 2025, airing on FOX.
“Rap music is still the most impactful genre to date. And I’ll be there to remind the world why. They got the right one.” – Kendrick Lamar “Kendrick Lamar is truly a once-in-a-generation artist and performer. His deep love for hip-hop and culture informs his artistic vision. He has an unparalleled ability to define and influence culture globally. Kendrick’s work transcends music, and his impact will be felt for years to come.” – Shawn “JAY-Z” Carter
Photo Cred: Entertainment Weekly “The Apple Music Super Bowl Halftime Show is a celebration of the music we love and the incredible artists who make it, all on the world’s biggest stage. Apple is thrilled to bring this show, starring the absolutely incomparable Kendrick Lamar, to fans worldwide with Apple Music’s industry leading Spatial Audio quality along with tons of exclusive videos, interviews, playlists and so much more across Apple Music.” – Oliver Schusser, Apple’s Vice President of Apple Music, Apple TV+, Sports, and Beats. “Few artists have impacted music and culture as profoundly as Kendrick Lamar. Time and time again, Kendrick has proven his unique ability to craft moments that resonate, redefine, and ultimately shake the very foundation of hip-hop.” – Seth Dudowsky, Head of Music at the NFL. “We’re excited to collaborate with Kendrick, Roc Nation, and Apple Music to deliver another unforgettable Halftime Show.” Multi-Platinum, Grammy and Emmy award winning artist and co-founder of creative imprint pgLang, Kendrick Lamar, has achieved massive critical and cultural success since his debut album good kid, m.A.A.d city released in 2012. Since its release, Lamar has accumulated 17 Grammy wins, and became the first non-classical, non-jazz musician to win a Pulitzer Prize for his 2017 album DAMN. Lamar’s latest album Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers, was released in May 2022. In April of this year, “Like That” by Future, Metro Boomin, and Kendrick Lamar spent three weeks at Number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and in June, Lamar’s record-breaking, “Not Like Us” spent two weeks at Number 1. Creative Direction for Lamar’s performance will be provided by pgLang. The Apple Music Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show telecast will be produced by DPS with Roc Nation and Jesse Collins serving as executive producers, and Hamish Hamilton serving as director. Roc Nation will also serve as the strategic entertainment advisor of the live performance. Apple Music’s multi year partnership with the NFL and Roc Nation brings together the Super Bowl Halftime Show — the most-watched musical performance of the year — with Apple Music, which celebrates musicians, songwriters, producers, and fans, and offers the world’s best music listening experience with a catalog of over 100 million songs and immersive sound powered by Spatial Audio. Apple revolutionized the music experience with iPod and iTunes and continues the award-winning tradition with Apple Music. Follow @AppleMusic on TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter. Earlier this year, The Apple Music Super Bowl LVIII Starring Usher became the most-watched halftime performance of all time and garnered three 2024 Emmy nominations, including Outstanding Variety Special (LIVE). In 2023, The Apple Music Super Bowl LVII Halftime Show Starring Rihanna scored five Emmy nominations, taking home two, including Outstanding Directing For A Variety Special, a first in Super Bowl Halftime history. In 2022, Super Bowl LVI Halftime Show Starring Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, and Kendrick Lamar garnered five Creative Arts Emmy nominations. The critically acclaimed performance won three Emmys, including Outstanding Variety Special (Live), a first-ever for the show. # # # Media Contacts: Roc Nation: NFL: Apple Music: Kendrick Lamar and pgLang: Amanda Silverman, Amanda.Silverman@ledecompany. Meredith O’Sullivan, Meredith.OSullivan@
|
| For more from NFL Communications, visitmedia.nfl.com |
Kendrick Lamar to Perform at Apple Music Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Kendrick-Lamar-Super-Bowl-090824-02-142fe0bc772546f8aa316bcbcb7c1b77.jpg)
Jacob Zeno: Evaluating His Potential as an NFL Prospect
Over the past decade, the UAB Blazers have seen several of their standout players make the leap to the NFL. It’s a testament to the program’s ability to develop professional-level talent. This achievement is the culmination of years of rigorous training, unwavering dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Despite the challenging odds, starting quarterback Jacob Zeno appears poised to be the next Blazer to enter the NFL.
Photo Cred: UAB
As he embarks on what is likely his final collegiate season, professional scouts will be closely watching him. From San Antonio, Texas, Zeno initially committed to the Baylor Bears. At that time, Baylor seemed like the perfect fit, offering Zeno an excellent opportunity to showcase his skills. However, the COVID-19 pandemic brought unforeseen changes, compelling Zeno to enter the transfer portal.
His journey led him to Birmingham, where he embraced a new chapter with the Blazers, eager to make his mark. Upon arriving at UAB, Zeno quickly adapted to his new environment and began working diligently to earn his place on the team. The coaching staff gradually integrated him into the lineup, eventually naming him the starting quarterback for the 2023 season. Zeno’s debut performance was nothing short of spectacular.
In his first official game, he amassed over 300 total yards, threw for three touchdowns, and completed 38 of 41 passes. His remarkable statistics left no doubt in the mind of head coach Trent Dilfer that Zeno was a key player for the Blazers’ future. He continued to impress throughout the season, finishing with nearly 3,300 passing yards and 24 touchdowns. During the summer, Zeno dedicated himself to preparing for what could be the most pivotal season of his career.
Photo Cred: Baylor
With the prospect of transitioning from a college star to an NFL hopeful, Zeno focused on honing his skills and improving his understanding of the game. His natural talent is evident—he possesses a powerful arm and an intuitive sense of the game that drives his offensive capabilities. However, to enhance his draft prospects, he must further develop his ability to read defenses from a professional perspective. This refinement will be crucial in capturing the attention of NFL scouts.
Despite his impressive performances, Zeno remains an overlooked prospect as the 2025 NFL Draft approaches. The success of UAB this season hinges largely on his performance. It places significant pressure on him to lead the offense effectively. There is little margin for error, and Zeno’s ability to perform under pressure will be critical in boosting his draft stock. For the former three-star recruit, the path to the NFL is both challenging and exhilarating. His journey from college standout to professional player will require a combination of skill, resilience, and patience as he strives to make a name for himself in the big leagues.
Revamping the Patriots: A New Era of Excellence?
As the New England Patriots embark on the 2024 season, a new chapter unfolds in Foxborough under former Patriots linebacker and assistant coach Jerod Mayo. After 24 years of the 6-time Super Bowl Champion Bill Belichick at the helm, the team is now in complete rebuild mode following their dynasty. With most key contributors having retired or moved on, the Patriots are starting fresh with 3rd overall pick Drake Maye from North Carolina. Below, we’ll explore how the Patriots can build around their young quarterback and return to prominence as they did in the early 2000s.
Photo Cred: Patriots
Current Starting Roster
Offense
QB: Drake Maye
WR1: Demario “Pop” Douglas
WR2: Ja’Lynn Polk
TE1: Hunter Henry
TE2: Austin Hooper
RB: Rhamondre Stevenson
LT: Chukwuma Okorafor
LG: Sidy Sow
C: David Andrews
RG: Laydon Robinson
RT: Mike Owenu
Defense
LE: Keion White
DT: Davon Godchaux
DT: Daniel Ekuale
OLB: Anfernee Jennings
LB: Ja’Whaun Bentley
LB: Jahlani Tavai
CB: Jonathan Jones
CB: Marcus Jones
CB: Christian Gonzalez
S: Jabrill Peppers
S: Kyle Dugger
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73263170/1171052798.0.jpg)
Photo Cred: Patriots
Roster Reconstruction Pre-Free Agency
Who Should The Patriots Keep?
As the Patriots continue their roster development, several key players should remain integral to their rebuilding efforts:
- Christian Gonzalez, CB
The second-year player from Oregon has the potential to be the next Stephon Gilmore, with elite speed and playmaking skills. Despite a season cut short by injury, Gonzalez’s performance was promising, with an 80.8 PFF score and 17 tackles. - Drake Maye, QB
The Patriots invested heavily in Drake Maye with their first-round pick. He demonstrated poise and potential during preseason and training camp, outplaying starter Jacoby Brissett. Given his status as a project quarterback, it’s crucial to protect him from injury with a solid supporting cast. - Demario Douglas, WR
Demario “Pop” Douglas emerged as a promising slot receiver last season, with over 500 yards and 49 catches. His athleticism and potential to replicate the success of past Patriots slot receivers make him a key player for the future. - Rhamondre Stevenson, RB
As the top weapon in the Patriots’ offense, Stevenson has accumulated about 2,200 scrimmage yards and 11 touchdowns over the past two years. His 4.5 yards per carry makes him a reliable asset for the next few seasons. - Kyle Dugger, S
Kyle Dugger, a standout D-2 prospect, has developed into a key player with 109 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and 2 interceptions last season. His consistency and ability to stop the run and make plays in the secondary are invaluable. - Christian Barmore, DT
Barmore’s presence in the middle of the defense is crucial, with a career-high 8.5 sacks last season. His ability to handle double teams and create pressure is essential for the pass rush. - Ja’Whaun Bentley, LB
Bentley, the leader of the defense, led the team in tackles last season and showed improved blitzing ability with a career-high 4.5 sacks. His leadership and tackling prowess make him a cornerstone for the defense.
Who The Patriots Should Cut and Not Bring Back
To maximize cap space and flexibility, the Patriots should consider releasing or not re-signing the following players:
- K.J. Osborn
Despite solid performances over the past three seasons, Osborn is on a one-year deal and with younger, more explosive receivers like Ja’Lynn Polk and Javon Baker on the roster, he may not be worth his $5-7 million salary. - Davon Godchaux
Godchaux has not lived up to expectations, with a PFF score below 53.1 since 2021 and limited pass-rushing impact. Moving on from his $18 million contract could free up valuable cap space. - Raekwon McMillan
McMillan has been largely ineffective since joining the Patriots, with limited playing time and only 35 tackles in three years. Releasing him could clear $2.99 million in cap space. - Jacoby Brissett
With Drake Maye as the future, Brissett’s role as a bridge quarterback is redundant. Given his potential market value, it’s wise for New England to avoid re-signing him for $8-10 million.
Free Agency and Draft
Who Should The Patriots Target During FA?
- Tee Higgins
A 6’4” receiver like Higgins could provide a significant boost to the Patriots’ receiving corps, offering a big-bodied target similar to what Maye had with Devontez Walker in college. - Hassan Reddick
Reddick could serve as a one-year replacement for Matthew Judon, bringing a proven pass-rushing presence with 50.5 sacks since 2020. - Stefon Diggs
Adding Diggs, one of the league’s top route runners, could boost the passing game, especially if Kendrick Bourne’s performance declines post-injury. - Chase Young
The former 2nd overall pick offers immense potential and could rejuvenate his career under Jerod Mayo’s guidance, despite concerns over his injury history. - James Daniels
A versatile veteran, Daniels could solidify the offensive line and offer flexibility, especially if Laydon Robinson doesn’t pan out. - Jedrick Wills Jr.
Replacing Vederian Lowe with Wills Jr. could enhance protection for Maye and improve the run game, given Wills’ potential to hit his prime soon.
How Should The Patriots Draft Look?
Projected to have a top 5 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Patriots should focus on addressing the following needs:
Teams Needs: OT, WR, CB, LB, RB, DL, IOL
Round 1, Pick 2: Travis Hunter, Colorado, WR/CB
Round 2, Pick 34: Patrick Payton, Florida St, EDGE
Round 3, Pick 66: Dontay Corleone, Cincinnati, DL
Round 3, Pick 84: Earnest Greene, Georgia, IOL
Round 4, Pick 102: Nick Emmanwori, South Carolina, CB
Round 5, Pick 139: Jake Briningstool, Clemson, TE
Round 7, Pick 215: Jalen Royal, Utah State, WR
Round 7, Pick 218: Riley Mahlam, Wisconsin, OT
Round 7, Pick 229: Jo’Quavious Marks, USC, RB
Conclusion and Final Trades
As the offseason concludes and training camp begins, the Patriots might make a splash trade, such as acquiring a star tackle like Trent Williams if contract issues arise. Adding a top left tackle could improve protection for Drake Maye and strengthen the offensive line.
With the Patriots currently having one of the weaker skill position groups, these moves should enhance their passing attack and ground game. Retaining young core players and integrating veteran talent will help unlock Drake Maye’s potential and complement an elite defense. General Manager Eliott Wolf faces significant tasks this offseason, but the goal is to establish a new version of “The New Patriot Way.” With the hiring of former Browns Coach Alex Van Pelt as offensive coordinator and Patriots linebacker Dont’a Hightower as an assistant coach, the team is blending internal continuity with new talent. As the roster comes together, the Patriots aim to become a playoff contender within the next 2-3 years.
North Carolina’s Ritzie earns Outland Trophy National Player of the Week
DALLAS (FWAA) – North Carolina defensive tackle Jahvaree Ritzie was a nemesis in the Minnesota backfield last Thursday and posted a career-high three sacks among six tackles as the Tar Heels escaped the Twin Cities with a 19-17 win. The defensive presence has earned Ritzie the Outland Trophy National Player of the Week honor for games during the weekend of Aug. 31, as selected by the Football Writers Association of America.
This is the second season for the FWAA to select an Outland Trophy National Player of the Week as part of the NCFAA’s weekly national honors from 12 awards. The recipient of the 2024 Outland Trophy will be announced on The Home Depot College Football Awards, live on ESPN on Dec. 12. The official presentation to the winner will be made at the Outland Trophy Awards Dinner sponsored by Werner Enterprises and produced by the Greater Omaha Sports Committee in Omaha, Neb., on Jan. 22, 2025.
The weekly winners, including Ritzie this week, are added to the Outland Trophy watch list going forward.
Ritzie was the mainstay along the North Carolina defensive front. The 6-4, 290-pound graduate student from Kernersville, N.C., impacted the passing game with his three sacks that tie for the national lead with one other, and his six tackles helped hold Minnesota, annually one of the country’s top rushing units, to only 78 yards for the game and only 15 in the second half. Included in the mix was Ritzie’s 100th career tackle.
The three sacks – a stat that doubled his career sack mark of 2.5 in three previous UNC seasons – are the most in a single game by a North Carolina player since Tomon Fox had three against Miami in 2019 and tie for third all-time in program history for a single game.
It’s a fine start to the season for a defensive tackle who posted 25 tackles, three QB pressures, a pass breakup, a forced fumble, a half-sack and a half-tackle for loss in the 2023 season. The defensive line has been a point of emphasis under new UNC defensive coordinator Geoff Collins. Ritzie’s best season came in 2022 when he had 48 total tackles with one sack and two tackles for loss.
North Carolina guard Jonathan Cooper was a finalist for the Outland Trophy in 2012, the Tar Heels’ only previous representation in the award’s history.
The Tar Heels host Charlotte at 3:30 p.m. ET this week on the ACC Network.
The Outland Trophy winner is chosen from finalists who are a part of the annual FWAA All-America Team. The FWAA All-America Committee, after voting input from the entire membership, selects a 26-man first team and eventually three Outland finalists. Committee members, then by individual ballot, select the winner. Only interior linemen on offense or defense are eligible for the award; ends are not eligible.
The Outland Trophy, celebrating 79 years since its founding, is the third-oldest major college football award. Created in 1946 when Dr. John Outland presented the FWAA with a financial contribution to initiate the award, the Outland Trophy has been given to the best interior lineman in college football ever since. Dr. Outland, an All-American at the University of Pennsylvania in the late 1890s, eventually took up practice in Kansas City, Mo. An avid outdoorsman, Dr. Outland believed linemen did not get the credit they deserved and wanted an award to recognize them.
The Outland Trophy is a member of the National College Football Awards Association. Founded in 1997, the NCFAA includes college football’s most prestigious awards and its 24 awards have honored more than 900 recipients dating back to 1935. This season, 12 NCFAA awards will honor national players of the week each Tuesday.
Werner Enterprises, Inc. delivers superior truckload transportation and logistics services to customers across the United States, Mexico and Canada. With 2022 revenues of $3.3 billion, an industry-leading modern truck and trailer fleet, more than 14,000 talented associates and our innovative Werner EDGE technology, we are an essential solutions provider for customers who value the integrity of their supply chain and require safe and exceptional on time service. Werner provides Dedicated and One-Way Truckload services as well as Logistics services that include 1truckload brokerage, freight management, intermodal and final mile. As an industry leader, Werner is deeply committed to promoting sustainability and supporting diversity, equity and inclusion. Werner Enterprises common stock trades on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol “WERN.” For further information about Werner, visit the company’s website at werner.com.
The Greater Omaha Sports Committee, founded in 1977, is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, consisting of more than 1,300 men and women from the City of Omaha, the State of Nebraska, and others. The Committee serves to communicate, develop, initiate and promote sports activities in the Greater Omaha sports area. In addition to the Outland Trophy Award Events and Dinner, the Greater Omaha Sports Committee promotes high school, college, and professional sports in the Greater Omaha area and the Midwest. For more information contact Bob Mancuso Jr., Chairman at bmancuso@showofficeonline.com or see showofficeonline.com.
Founded in 1941, the Football Writers Association of America consists of 1,300 men and women who cover college football. The membership includes journalists, broadcasters and publicists, as well as key executives in all the areas that involve the game. The FWAA works to govern areas that include game-day operations, major awards and its annual All-America team. For more information about the FWAA and its award programs, contact Steve Richardson at tiger@fwaa.com.
All NCFAA logos can be downloaded from collegepressbox.com or the following link: https://www.dropbox.com/
UNLV’s Woodard earns Bronko Nagurski Trophy National Player of the Week
|
Each week during the regular season, the FWAA has selected a Bronko Nagurski National Defensive Player of the Week since 2001. The FWAA and the Charlotte Touchdown Club will announce finalists for the 2024 Bronko Nagurski Trophy on Nov. 20. The national defensive player of the year will be chosen from those finalists who are part of the 2024 FWAA All-America Team and presented with the trophy at the Bronko Nagurski Awards Banquet on Dec. 9 at the Charlotte Convention Center.Tyler Announces The Earl Campbell Tyler Rose Award National Player of the Week
Tyler Announces The Earl Campbell Tyler Rose Award National Player of the Week
TYLER, Texas – Boise State running back, Ashton Jeanty has been named The Earl Campbell Tyler Rose Award National Player of the Week for the first week of the college football season.
Jeanty had 20 carries for 267 yards and six rushing touchdowns, both of which were program records and the latter of which matched the Mountain West record, in a 56-45 win at Georgia Southern.
The junior running back had two touchdown runs of 75 yards or more, opening the scoring with a 77-yard touchdown in the first quarter, which was the 11th-longest in program history. He added a 75-yard scoring run in the fourth quarter. Jeanty also averaged 13.4 yards per carry and turned in his third career 200-yard rushing game.
Ashton Jeanty is a graduate of Lone Star High School in Frisco, Texas.
Honorable Mention Week 1:
HUDSON CARD, QB, PURDUE
Austin, TX (Lake Travis HS)
Senior
24/25 – 273 yards, 4 TD | 3 carries – 16 yards
W 49-0 vs. Indiana State
TAYLEN GREEN, QB, ARKANSAS
Lewisville, TX (Lewisville HS)
RS-Junior
16/23 – 229 yards, 2 TD | 6 carries – 88 yards, 2 TD
W 70-0 vs. Arkansas Pine-Bluff
JA’QUINDEN JACKSON, RB, ARKANSAS
Dallas, TX (Duncanville HS)
RS-Senior
8 carries – 101 yards, 2 TD
W 70-0 vs. Arkansas-Pine Bluff
BRANT KUITHE, TE, UTAH
Katy, TX (Cinco Ranch HS)
Senior (7th yr.)
4 catches – 69 yards, 3 TD
W 49-0 vs. Southern Utah
JOHN MATEER, QB, WASHINGTON STATE
Little Elm, TX (Little Elm HS)
RS-Sophomore
11/17 – 352 yards, 5 TD | 2 carries – 55 yards, TD
W 70-30 vs. Portland State
CHANDLER MORRIS, QB, NORTH TEXAS
Highland Park, TX (Highland Park HS)
Junior
32/41 – 415 yards, 3 TD
W 52-38 @ South Alabama
SHEDEUR SANDERS, QB, COLORADO
Dallas, TX (Trinity Christian)
Senior
26/34 – 445 yards, 4 TD, INT + 17 yards rushing
W 31-26 vs. North Dakota State
BRENDAN SORSBY, QB, CINCINNATI
Denton, TX (Lake Dallas HS)
RS-Sophomore
22/31 – 383 yards, 2 TD + 5 yards rushing, 2 TD
W 38-20 vs. Towson
CAM WARD, QB, MIAMI
West Columbia, TX (Columbia HS)
Senior (5th yr.)
26/35 – 385 yards, 3 TD, INT | 3 carries – 33 yards
W 41-17 @ Florida
DAMON WARD JR, WR, NORTH TEXAS
Beaumont, TX (West Brook HS)
Senior (6th yr.)
12 catches – 230 yards, 2 TD
W 52-38 @ South Alabama
THE EARL CAMPBELL TYLER ROSE AWARD
The Earl Campbell Tyler Rose Award, announced in 2012 by the Tyler Chamber and SPORTyler, recognizes the top offensive player in Division I football who also exhibits the enduring characteristics that define Earl Campbell: integrity, performance, teamwork, sportsmanship, drive, community, and tenacity; specifically tenacity to persist and determination to overcome adversity and injury in pursuit of reaching goals.
In addition, the nominee must meet one or more of the following criteria: Played football and graduated from a Texas High School and/or playing at a four year D1 Texas college.
For more information about The Earl Campbell Tyler Rose Award go to www.earlcampbellaward.com or contact Cindy Smoak, SPORTyler, Tyler Area Chamber of Commerce: csmoak@tylertexas.com or 903-595-7226.
Get the most up-to-date information by following us on social media at twitter.com/campbellaward or facebook.com/campbellaward.
Four Players from Three Conferences Earn Paul Hornung Award Honor Roll in Week One
Four Players from Three Conferences Earn Paul Hornung Award Honor Roll in Week One
Award Presented by Texas Roadhouse to Most Versatile Player in Major College Football
Louisville, Ky. – Sept. 4, 2024 – Four players representing the Big 12, ACC and Big Ten were named to the Paul Hornung Award Honor Roll for their performances in week one of the college football season. Making the list are Quali Conley, Arizona; Travis Hunter, Colorado; Desmond Reid, Pitt; and Nicholas Singleton, Penn State. For his performance in Colorado’s win over FCS powerhouse North Dakota State, Hunter will be honored by the National College Football Awards Association as the Paul Hornung Award Player-of-the-Week.
Arizona senior running back/return specialist Quali Conley touched the ball 14 times three different ways and scored three touchdowns in the Wildcats’ 63-19 win over New Mexico at home. Conley caught three passes, returned one kickoff and carried the ball 10 times for 90 yards and ran for three scores in the second half when Arizona blew the game open. Colorado junior defensive back/wide receiver Travis Hunter played 129 snaps on offense and defense, all but two plays from scrimmage, and scored three times as the Buffalos twice came from behind to defeat North Dakota State 31-26 at home.
Hunter made three tackles on defense and on offense caught seven passes for 132 yards and three touchdowns, including a three-yard scoring reception in the fourth quarter that proved to be the game-winner. Pitt junior running back/return specialist Desmond Reid touched the ball 19 times three different ways, scored two different ways and accounted for 234 all-purpose yards in the Panthers’ 55-24 win over Kent State at home. Reid scored on a 78-yard punt return in the first quarter and added a 46-yard scoring run in the third quarter while accounting for four first downs from scrimmage. He also caught three passes and made one fair catch.
Penn State junior running back/return specialist Nicholas Singleton touched the ball 17 times three different ways and scored once in the Nittany Lions’ hard-fought, 34-12 win over West Virginia in Morgantown. Singleton rushed for 113 yards and a third quarter score that spotted Penn State a three-touchdown lead. He also returned three kickoffs, caught one pass and accounted for five first downs from scrimmage.
The Louisville Sports Commission successfully launched the Paul Hornung Award in 2010 to honor its namesake and native son, and to promote outstanding performances by versatile college football players who often go unnoticed. Each week during the regular season, a panel of college football experts selects players for the Paul Hornung Award Honor Roll based on performance. A national selection committee comprised of 18 sports journalists and former NFL stars votes for the Hornung Award finalists and the winner, with fan voting powered by Texas Roadhouse comprising the 19th vote.
ABOUT Louisville Sports Commission
The Louisville Sports Commission (LSC) is a Louisville, Kentucky-based 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to create a legacy of economic and social vitality through sports. The LSC attracts and hosts sporting events and activities that have a positive economic impact on Louisville, enhance the area’s image as a premier sports destination and promote active lifestyles to improve the quality of life for community members of all ages. More information is available online at www.louisvillesports.org, www.facebook.com/
ABOUT Texas Roadhouse
Texas Roadhouse was founded by Kent Taylor in 1993 and has more than 650 locations in 49 states and 11 foreign countries. This Louisville-based company has a family of three brands, including Bubba’s 33 with 50 locations in 15 states and Jaggers with over 10 locations in multiple states. Bubba’s 33 was founded in 2013 and Jaggers in 2014, each with their own signature menu items and made-from-scratch food. All three concepts have received national and local recognition. For more information, visit www.texasroadhouse.com.
ABOUT National College Football Awards Association
The Paul Hornung Award is a member of the National College Football Awards Association (NCFAA). Founded in 1997, the NCFAA includes college football’s most prestigious awards and its 24 awards have honored more than 900 recipients dating back to 1935. This season, 13 NCFAA awards will honor national players of the week each Tuesday. For more information about the NCFAA and its award programs, visit the redesigned NCFAA.org or follow on Twitter at @NCFAA
NFL AND ROC NATION LAUNCH 2024 SONGS OF THE SEASON
2024 Songs Of The Season Launches With New Music From Star Flau’jae’s Single “Came Out A Beast” Featuring Lil Wayne via ROC Nation Distribution
New York, NY — Thursday, September 5, 2024 — The NFL and Roc Nation today launched 2024 Songs of the Season, a season-long initiative highlighting music from superstars and emerging artists of all genres via ROC Nation distribution. Fans will hear songs across NFL platforms and league broadcast partners throughout the 2024-2025 season including on NFL Network, NFL+, @NFL social, in-game broadcasts, in NFL stadiums, across club social channels, and more. Songs of the Season continues to support the NFL’s Inspire Change platform, advancing social justice initiatives. “Music is such an integral part of everything we do at the NFL, and this year’s Songs of the Season is all about capturing the energy and passion that defines the sport,” said Seth Dudowsky, head of music at the NFL. “We’re thrilled to once again partner with Roc Nation to showcase artists whose music will enhance the fan experience throughout the season, whether you’re at home or at an NFL stadium.” Flau’jae’s explosive hit “Came Out A Beast,” featuring the incomparable Lil Wayne, leads this year’s Songs of the Season playlist. “I’m hyped for the NFL season to kick off, and having my song featured as the top track means so much to me, especially alongside a legend like Lil Wayne,” said Flau’jae. “I’m a competitor at heart, whether it’s on the court or in the studio, so I cannot wait to see my music bring that same energy to the game.” Flau’jae, born in Savannah, Georgia, is the first McDonald’s All-American to join the LSU women’s basketball team, helping to lead the team to their first NCAA national championship title in her freshman year. Signed to ROC Nation distribution, Flau’jae recently released her debut studio EP, BEST OF BOTH WORLDS. The NFL Songs of the Season playlist, including Flau’jae’s “Came Out A Beast” featuring Lil Wayne, is available now on Apple Music and all digital service providers. 2024 Songs of the Season 1. Flau’jae, Lil Wayne 2. AKINYEMI, Anwar Sawyer, Eli Evnen 3. Antha Pantha 4. BOHNES 5. Benny The Butcher 6. Dorothy 7. Daniel Church 8. Humble Soles, DJ Clue, RJAE, Johnny Cocoa, Reuben Vincent 9. John B, Natania 10. Joaquin Bynum 11. Miles Barker, Anwar Sawyer, Rachael Chevlin 12. Rapsody 13. CJ Francis & Park3r Media Contact |
| For more from NFL Communications, visitmedia.nfl.com |
UAB Powers Through Alcorn State, 41-3, in Season Opener
Led by second-year head coach Trent Dilfer, the UAB Blazers delivered a resounding performance on Thursday evening. They overpowered Alcorn State 41-3 in front of a spirited home crowd at Protective Stadium. Despite an initial delay caused by a lightning strike within six miles of the stadium, the Blazers were relentless once the game commenced. Dilfer’s meticulous preparation, combined with precise execution on both sides of the ball, set the stage for an impressive season opener.
Photo Cred: UAB
Starting quarterback Jacob Zeno orchestrated a masterful display against the Braves’ defense. Whether executing check-downs or launching deep passes, Zeno demonstrated why he’s a key asset for the Blazers. Although he did throw one interception, Zeno completed 23 of 33 passes for 215 yards and two touchdowns. He also showcased his mobility with a 26-yard scramble to start the second quarter. He averaged 7.4 yards per carry on the ground.
Sophomore running back Lee Beebe Jr. was another standout performer. He thrived under the bright lights in front of over 21,000 fans. Beebe Jr. rushed for 82 yards and scored two touchdowns, averaging an impressive 5.5 yards per attempt. Freshman receiver Kam Shanks also made a significant impact, contributing six receptions for 73 yards. Their combined efforts, aided by Zeno’s stellar performance, provided Blazer fans with early-season bragging rights and set a high bar for the rest of the year.
On the defensive side, UAB was equally dominant. Senior cornerback Colby Dempsey electrified the crowd with a momentum-shifting interception in the second quarter. The defense as a whole was formidable, recording five sacks, five pass deflections, and eight tackles for loss. Their relentless pressure forced Alcorn State to cycle through three different quarterbacks, underscoring UAB’s defensive supremacy and sending a clear message to the rest of the conference.
Photo Cred: UAB
While the season opener was a significant victory, the Blazers must now turn their focus to UL Monroe. This next challenge will require equally rigorous preparation. UAB will face formidable opponents who will test their strategies and adaptability. Coach Dilfer and his staff will need to meticulously study film and analyze data to ensure their game plan remains effective under the Louisiana spotlight. Success in this next game will be crucial. It will position the Blazers favorably against future conference rivals such as Army, Tulane, and Tulsa.
