National Football League and Enthusiast Gaming Announce Season 3 of NFL Tuesday Night Gaming

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August 27, 2024

Season 3 to debut on September 3, 2024, ahead of NFL Kickoff

New season to feature revamped format to bring fans closer than ever to their favorite gaming creators and NFL players

New York and Los Angeles – August 27, 2024 – The National Football League (the “NFL”) and Enthusiast Gaming Holdings Inc. (“Enthusiast Gaming” or the “Company”) (TSX: EGLX) jointly announced today that the third season of the popular video game series, NFL Tuesday Night Gaming (NFL TNG), will debut on Sept. 3, 2024, on NFL TNG’s YouTube with a brand-new show format that will bring fans closer than ever to the gaming creators and NFL stars they love.

“As ‘NFL Tuesday Night Gaming’ continues to build on its success, we’re excited to showcase a revamped format that will capture even more fun moments between top gaming creators and NFL players,” said Ed Kiang, vice president of video gaming at the NFL. “Collaborating with Enthusiast Gaming has enabled the NFL to deepen its reach across the gaming community and we expect season three to be our most popular yet.”

The 26-episode season has evolved from a competitive, tournament-style storyline to a new lifestyle-focused content format that invites fans to discover more about the lives and personalities under the helmets and headsets. The format has been reimagined around the energy and hype of the couch co-op matchups from season one and season two, delivering what the gaming community connects with the most: personality-driven content, competitive fun and intimate interactions.

Also returning in season three for a total of five episodes is NFL Family Game Night (NFL FGN), a special NFL TNG mini-series targeted toward kids and parental co-viewing audiences. Each episode brings together NFL players, NFL Legends and their families to play family-friendly, brand-safe video games with gaming content creators. Jenny ‘JennySmiles’ Simile returns to NFL FGN as a host and will be joined this season by Wynndham ‘Wynnsanity’ Curtis, one of North America’s largest mobile gaming content creators with over two million followers.

NFL TNG’s season three debut episode follows the successful release of the special NFL Flag episode, live from the NFL Flag Championships in Canton, OH, and episode one of NFL FGN. These episodes combined for over 9,000,000 impressions.

“We’re now entering a third season of our partnership with the National Football League, and it is evident that we are creating the captivating content that gaming audiences gravitate towards,” said Adrian Montgomery, Board Chairman and Interim CEO of Enthusiast Gaming. “With our engaged communities, Enthusiast is uniquely positioned to create this content and integrate brands in meaningful ways.”

Fans can tune in to NFL Tuesday Night Gaming every Tuesday during the 2024 NFL season on NFL TNG‘s YouTube channel. To learn more about NFL Tuesday Night Gaming, visit www.NFLTNG.com.

Media Contacts: Liana Bailey, liana.bailey@nfl.com, Enthusiast Gaming, press@enthusiastgaming.com

About NFL Tuesday Night Gaming

NFL Tuesday Night Gaming is a one-of-a-kind gaming and lifestyle program bringing a new form of entertainment to gaming and sports fans year-round. Uniting the most exciting personalities from gaming and the NFL to play popular video games, NFL TNG allows fans to connect more with their favorite content creators and players. Since debuting on September 3rd, 2022, more than 48 episodes have been filmed to date and are available on the official NFL TNG YouTube channel, @NFLTNG.

About Enthusiast Gaming

Enthusiast Gaming is the leading gaming media and entertainment company in North America, building the largest platform for video game enthusiasts and esports fans to connect and compete worldwide. Combining the elements of its five core pillars: creators, content, communities, games, and experiences, Enthusiast Gaming provides a unique opportunity for marketers to create integrated brand solutions to connect with coveted Gen Z and Millennial audiences. Through its proprietary mix of digital media, content and gaming assets, Enthusiast Gaming continues to grow its network of communities, reflecting the scale and diversity of gaming enthusiasts today.

Contacts:

Enthusiast Gaming: Felicia DellaFortuna, CFO

Investors: investor@enthusiastgaming.com

Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains certain statements that may constitute forward-looking information under applicable securities laws. All statements, other than those of historical fact, that address activities, events, outcomes, results, developments, performance or achievements that Enthusiast Gaming anticipates or expects may or will occur in the future (in whole or in part) should be considered forward-looking information. Often, but not always, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects”, “is expected”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “anticipates”, or “believes” or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases, or statements formed in the future tense or indicating that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” (or other variations of the forgoing) be taken, occur, be achieved, or come to pass. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the Company’s strategic plans, and details pertaining to the distribution and composition of the NFL TNG programming.

Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and analyses made by the Company in light of its experience and its perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, including, but not limited to, expectations and assumptions concerning interest and foreign exchange rates; capital efficiencies, cost saving and synergies; growth and growth rates; the success in the esports and media industry; and the Company’s growth plan. While Enthusiast Gaming considers these assumptions to be reasonable, based on information currently available, they may prove to be incorrect. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements necessarily involve known and unknown risks, including, without limitation, risks associated with general economic conditions; the timing and filing of the final base shelf prospectus and corresponding Registration Statement; the potential offering of any Securities by the Company; uncertainty with respect to the completion of any future offering; the ability to obtain applicable regulatory approvals for any contemplated offerings; the ability of the Company to negotiate and complete future funding transactions; adverse industry events; and future legislative, tax and regulatory developments. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list is not exhaustive. For more information on the risk, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause anticipated opportunities and actual results to differ materially, please refer to the public filings of Enthusiast Gaming which are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Readers are further cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements as there can be no assurance that the plans, intentions or expectations upon which they are placed will occur. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement and reflect our expectations as of the date hereof, and thus are subject to change thereafter. Enthusiast Gaming disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.

Neither the TSX Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

For more from NFL Communications, visit NFLCommunications.com and follow @NFL345.

Big Ten Announces New Football Tiebreaking Procedures

By

Stephen Patrick

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August 26, 2024

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2024 Big Ten Football Tiebreaker Procedures (PDF)

ROSEMONT, Ill. (Aug. 26, 2024) – The Big Ten Conference on Monday announced new football tiebreaking procedures for the 2024 Discover Big Ten Championship Game, the first in Big Ten history to match the No. 1 and No. 2 teams in the overall conference standings.

If two teams are tied in the Big Ten standings (conference games only), the following steps will be taken until a determination is made (condensed version below with full version attached):

The tied teams will be compared based on head-to-head matchups during the regular season.
The tied teams will be compared based on record against all common conference opponents.
The tied teams will be compared based on record against common opponents with the best conference record and proceeding through the common conference opponents based on their order of finish within the conference standings.
The tied teams will be compared based on the best cumulative conference winning percentage of all conference opponents.
The representative will be chosen based on the highest ranking by SportSource Analytics (team Rating Score metric) following the regular season.
The representative will be chosen by random draw among the tied teams conducted by the Commissioner or designee.

Additional information, including the process for three-or-more tied teams, is included in the attached document.

The 2024 Discover Big Ten Championship Game will be held on Saturday, December 7, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis and will be broadcast for the first time on CBS. The winner will represent the conference as the Automatic Qualifier (AQ) to the College Football Playoff.

The Big Ten Football season kicks off this weekend with all 18 teams in action, beginning with three contests on Thursday evening, two on Friday, 12 on Saturday and one on Sunday. The 2024 campaign will be the first to feature a full slate of Big Ten games on three broadcast networks (CBS, FOX, NBC), supported by exclusive cable and streaming coverage all season on Big Ten Network, FS1 and Peacock.

For more information, contact:

Paul Kennedy

Big Ten Conference

(847) 696-1010

mediainquiries@bigten.org

Does Spencer Rattler Have a Future in New Orleans?

By

Iliyan Lakhani

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August 26, 2024

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After the retirement of NFL legend Drew Brees, the New Orleans Saints have grappled with significant challenges at the quarterback position. Since Brees departure, the team has cycled through various signal-callers. They include Jameis Winston and Andy Dalton, in an effort to find a long-term solution. Despite these efforts, the Saints have yet to identify a quarterback who can provide the stability. The team had pressing needs heading into the 2024 NFL Draft.

Photo Cred: AP News

The New Orleans office hopes that a high-caliber prospect might slip and become available in later rounds. To their surprise, former four-star recruit Spencer Rattler fell to the fifth round of the draft. Rattler’s slide down the draft board was attributed to several factors, but his talent and potential remain undeniable. A native of Arizona, Rattler played a total of five seasons in college football—three with Oklahoma and two with South Carolina.

His collegiate career was highlighted by an exceptional 2020 season with the Sooners, during which he threw for over 3,000 yards, accumulated 34 touchdowns, and committed only seven interceptions. However, Rattler’s performance in the following seasons showed a slight decline. While he continued to post impressive yardage, his interception numbers increased, raising concerns among NFL scouts. These issues, combined with the rise of other highly-ranked quarterbacks, contributed to his unexpected drop in the draft.

Photo Cred: Who Dat Dish

By the time the fifth round rolled around, the Saints decided to seize the opportunity. Rattler was picked 150th overall. This choice represented a low-risk, high-reward scenario. Currently, Rattler is listed as the third-string quarterback on the depth chart, a typical position for a fifth-round pick embarking on his NFL journey. Nonetheless, there is potential for him to ascend the ranks should early-season struggles occur.

Derek Carr, a four-time Pro Bowler, had a mixed performance last season, guiding the team to a 9-8 record. But he also committed eight interceptions and seven fumbles. Should Carr encounter difficulties at the start of the current season, the coaching staff may opt to give Rattler a chance to showcase his abilities and evaluate his potential contributions. For Rattler to secure a prominent role, the Saints will need to provide him with a fair opportunity to compete for the starting position.

Photo Cred: AP News

His strong arm, football IQ, and pocket awareness are notable strengths that could serve him well in the NFL. The coaching staff is expected to offer him a chance to prove himself behind the scenes. They’ll focus on refining his consistency, accuracy, and confidence. If Rattler approaches this opportunity with dedication and a willingness to learn from the veteran players around him, he could emerge as a key figure for the Saints and potentially evolve into the franchise quarterback they have been searching for over the past few seasons.

2024 NFL Preseason Individual & Team Statistical Leaders

By

Stephen Patrick

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August 26, 2024

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NEW YORK — Aug. 26, 2024 — Listed below are the final individual and team preseason leaders in the AFC and NFC.

Quarterback TREY LANCE of the Dallas Cowboys led the NFL with 662 passing yards and 168 rushing yards, and New Orleans wide receiver A.T. PERRY led the league in receiving yards with 176.

The Dallas Cowboys finished the 2024 preseason with the top-ranked offense, averaging 387.0 yards per game. The Philadelphia Eagles led the league in total defense, allowing 205.3 yards per game.

2024 NFL PRESEASON LEADERS

Individual			Team
Touchdowns	Tr. Jackson, Min., NFC	3	Total Offense	Dallas, NFC	387.0
	14 tied, AFC	2	(Yards Per Game)	Tennessee, AFC	373.0

Rushing Yards	Lance, Dal., NFC	168	Points	Chicago, NFC	115
	Gore, Buf., AFC (R)	163		Denver, AFC	99

Rushing TDs	6 tied, AFC	2	Rushing Yards	Dallas, NFC	158.7
	11 tied, NFC	2	Per Game	Jacksonville, AFC	150.0

Longest Run	D. Davis, LAC, AFC	70t	Rushing TDs	Indianapolis, AFC	7
from Scrimmage	McIntosh, Sea., NFC	56t		Chicago, NFC	6

Passer Rating	M. Jones, Jax., AFC	115.9	Pass Attempts	Houston, AFC	132
	Ja. Hall, Min., NFC	112.5		2 tied, NFC	119

Passing Yards	Lance, Dal., NFC	662	Completions	2 tied, AFC	85
	M. Jones, Jax., AFC	421		Dallas, NFC	76

Passing TDs	Ja. Hall, Min., NFC	4	Passing Yards	Cleveland, AFC	237.3
	5 tied, AFC	3	Per Game	San Francisco, NFC	236.3

Receptions	Thompson, TB, NFC	15	Passing TDs	Jacksonville, AFC	7
	Hutchinson, Hou., AFC	12		Minnesota, NFC	7

Receiving Yards	Perry, NO, NFC	176	Fewest Sacks	2 tied, NFC	2
	Fehoko, LAC, AFC	170	Allowed	2 tied, AFC	4

Receiving TDs	Tr. Jackson, Min., NFC	3	Most 2-Point	Buffalo, AFC	2
	5 tied, AFC	2	Conversions	2 tied, NFC	1

Longest Rec.	Fehoko, LAC, AFC	78t	Total Defense	Philadelphia, NFC	205.3
	J. Jones, Min., NFC (R)	71t	(Yards Per Game)	Jacksonville, AFC	209.3

Punt Return	Eskridge, Sea., NFC	41.0	Pts. Allowed/Game	Jacksonville, AFC	6.7
Average	McAllister, LV, AFC	37.3		Chicago, NFC	11.8

Kickoff Return	Washington, Jax., AFC	73.0	Rushing Yds.	Minnesota, NFC	82.7
Average	Guerendo, SF, NFC (R)	61.0	Allowed/Game	New England, AFC	83.0

Punting Average	Gill, Den., AFC	48.6	Rushing TDs	3 tied, NFC	0
(Net)	Taylor, Chi., NFC (R)	44.8	Allowed	Jacksonville, AFC	1

Points	Santos, Chi., NFC	31	Passing Yards	N.Y. Jets, AFC	108.0
	Lutz, Den., AFC	27	Allowed/Game	Philadelphia, NFC	115.3

Field Goals	Aubrey, Dal., NFC	8	Passing TDs	N.Y. Jets, AFC	0
	5 tied, AFC	6	<

NFL Continues Partnership with National Council on Problem Gambling with New Three-Year, $6.4 Million Commitment

By

Stephen Patrick

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August 25, 2024

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NFL and NCPG to Continue Impactful Responsible Gambling Initiatives

Ongoing Partnership will Support Initiatives to Minimize Gambling Harm and Support Affected Individuals

New York – August 22, 2024 – The National Football League (NFL) today announced an extended partnership with the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) to bolster nationwide problem gambling prevention services and promote responsible gambling initiatives. As the sports betting landscape continues to evolve, this renewed commitment addresses the critical need for resources in responsible and problem gambling.

This three-year, $6.4 million commitment from the NFL Foundation to NCPG follows the NFL’s original three-year, $6.2 million grant awarded in October 2021, the largest in NCPG’s nearly 50-year history. The new grant will enable the continued expansion of NCPG’s critical initiatives, ensuring that the organization can sustain and build upon its significant progress since 2021.

“Our partnership with NCPG underscores the vital impact of their work and our ongoing commitment to advocate for and support responsible gambling initiatives,” said Anna Isaacson, NFL Senior Vice President of Social Responsibility. “We are proud to leverage our platform and resources with NCPG’s expertise to raise awareness, provide education and help prevent problem gambling. We look forward to our continued partnership with NCPG and expanding the reach of their impactful programs.”

The NFL’s funding supports three key NCPG initiatives: modernizing and strengthening the National Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-GAMBLER) – a crucial resource for accessing problem gambling treatment – in order to enhance the helpline’s efficiency, improve access across the country and ensure that everyone who reaches out receives high-quality care; developing and implementing the Agility Grants program – the first national grant initiative designed to reach communities underserved by problem gambling prevention programs; and awareness efforts – including the ResponsiblePlay.org website – to educate fans and the public on responsible gambling practices.

“We are profoundly grateful for the NFL’s renewed investment in NCPG, which will enable us to grow the essential prevention, education and awareness initiatives that were established through their initial grant,” said Keith Whyte, NCPG Executive Director. “This partnership has been instrumental in advancing our mission of minimizing gambling related harm. We look forward to building on the significant progress we’ve made together over the past three years and exploring new avenues for impact.”

Results and Impact of Partnership to Date

National Problem Gambling Helpline Modernization Project: Since the 2021 grant, the National Problem Gambling Helpline has undergone significant modernization. The grant enabled funding for upgraded technology, increased staffing and enhanced data collection efforts from the 28 contact centers that comprise the National Problem Gambling Helpline Network. Data collection efforts are key to providing NCPG with insights into contact trends, allowing the organization to better advocate for federal funding that supports problem gambling prevention, education and treatment efforts.

The grant also enabled US-wide licensing for the 1-800-GAMBLER number, to reduce confusion resulting from multiple state-specific helplines and ensure seamless routing to designated state contact centers. Use of the helpline grew 104% from 2020 to 2023, which NCPG attributes primarily to the increased promotion and awareness of the helpline.

Agility Grants: The Agility Grants fill gaps in problem gambling prevention programming across the United States. They fund projects reaching populations at higher risk of developing a gambling problem, including middle school, high school and college students and communities disproportionately affected by problem gambling. The grants focus on programs that minimize harm on a primary level (those who have not yet gambled) and on a secondary level (those who have limited gambling experience). To date, the program has provided nearly $1 million in grants to 26 innovative problem gambling prevention programs across 17 states, reaching over 40,000 individuals.

Agility Grant funding has supported the following projects and organizations, among others:

The Ohio State University’s “Buckeyes Know the Stakes,” program which seeks to educate students through robust problem gambling prevention events and marketing campaigns.
Freedom House of Mecklenburg, Inc.’s “Problem Gambling Primary and Secondary Prevention Curriculum Development,” a collaborative school-based project that incorporates an evidence-based problem gambling prevention curriculum across 49 Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) middle schools.
The Hispanic Urban Minority Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Outreach Program (UMADAOP) and their education campaign for Hispanic youth in Cleveland, Ohio, to raise awareness of problem gambling behaviors in middle and high school students.

Awareness Efforts: Additionally, NCPG awareness and advocacy efforts have significantly raised public awareness about responsible gambling initiatives and where to get help and access resources for gambling addiction. The most prominent initiative was the launch of the ResponsiblePlay.org website in 2021, which has since reached approximately 750,000 visitors. The website provides a series of tips for visitors to keep gambling fun, offers basic facts about problem gambling and explains where people can get help for problem gambling, whether they are directly or indirectly affected by it.

Media Contacts:

Alex Riethmiller, NFL, alex.riethmiller@nfl.com
Cait Huble, NCPG, CaitH@ncpgambling.org

About the National Council on Problem Gambling

The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) is the only national nonprofit organization that seeks to mitigate gambling-related harm. NCPG is neutral on legalized gambling. If you or someone you know may have a gambling problem, contact the National Problem Gambling Helpline, which offers hope and help without stigma or shame. Call 1-800-GAMBLER, text 800GAM, or visit www.1800gamblerchat.org. Help is available 24/7 – it is free and confidential.

JuJu Watkins is set to Record a Historic Season for USC

By

Iliyan Lakhani

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August 25, 2024

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The USC Trojans have long been recognized as a powerhouse in NCAA basketball, consistently producing superstar talents who make significant impacts at the professional level. This tradition of excellence shows no signs of slowing down, particularly with the emergence of women’s basketball phenom JuJu Watkins. Following an extraordinary freshman season, Watkins is poised to become the next generational standout for the Trojans.

Photo Cred: CBS

College basketball, in contrast to its professional counterpart, is often more team-oriented than focused on individual isolation plays. Success in college hoops is frequently defined by effective ball movement, breaking down defenses, and creating open shot opportunities. Under the guidance of head coach Lindsay Gottlieb, Watkins’ game will be tailored to her unique skill set. Her one-of-a-kind talent means that the Trojans will design plays that capitalize on her strengths, such as off-the-ball movement, setting screens, and executing cuts behind defenses.

This approach will enable Watkins to exploit open lanes and score in various ways. During her inaugural collegiate season, Watkins led the Trojans to the Elite Eight. She firmly established USC as one of the premier teams in the nation. The guard is a former five-star recruit. She averaged an impressive 27.1 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game over 34 contests. Her outstanding performance earned her several prestigious awards, including the Pac-12 Rookie of the Year and AP All-American honors.

These accolades underscore Watkins’ immense potential and hint at a future filled with even greater achievements. As the next season approaches, opponents will undoubtedly develop extensive scouting reports to counteract Watkins’ two-way dominance. However, stopping her from taking over a game will prove nearly impossible. With an unmatched passion for scoring and an exceptional basketball IQ, Watkins is adept at navigating double teams and overcoming defensive traps. Her ability to make crucial plays will force opposing teams to make difficult decisions on how to defend her.

Photo Cred: USA Today

Looking ahead, Watkins is set to elevate her game to unprecedented heights. The Trojans are well-positioned for a potentially historic season. USC has a strong supporting cast and a head coach who possesses a deep understanding of the game beyond mere statistics. JuJu and company is poised for a championship-caliber run. If Watkins continues to progress at her current rate, the Trojans may very well emerge as the top team in the country, making a formidable bid for the national title.

Exploring the Heart of College Football & Its Unsung Heroes

College

By

Terrance Biggs

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August 22, 2024

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The 2024 NCAA football season is just around the corner, set to kick off in the next two weeks. When most people think of “college football,” they envision massive stadiums packed with fans and the festive atmosphere of tailgates. People think of enthusiastic fans, who may be too inebriated to make it into the game, enjoy food, and watch on large screens. While this vibrant scene is a staple of the sport, it doesn’t capture the full essence of what college football truly represents.

Small Dots

Photo Cred: NESN

The media often fixates on the grandeur of major football programs, driven by lucrative television contracts and substantial revenue. Yet, this focus obscures the rich, diverse world of college football that extends beyond the spotlight. Many of the sport’s oldest rivalries, steeped in tradition, seldom make it to mainstream television.

Take, for instance, “The Biggest Little Game in America,” a storied rivalry between Williams and Amherst Colleges in Massachusetts. It dates back to 1884. This rivalry predates the admission of twelve states to the Union. It has been a source of intense passion for six generations of alumni. While many players from these smaller schools won’t make it to the NFL, the memories and experiences they gain from competing for their schools are deeply cherished.

The Work of Dozens

Photo Cred: Facebook

Conferences at the Division II and III levels deserve recognition for their remarkable efforts. Unlike major conferences like the Southeastern Conference, which has a large full-time staff, smaller conferences achieve similar results with minimal resources. Conferences such as the Landmark, SCIAC, Midwest, and ODAC operate with teams small enough to fit in a compact car. They manage to market and promote their teams effectively. These conferences maintain a robust presence on social media. And they ensure that their football programs and games receive the attention they deserve throughout the year, without any fuss or complaints about their limited staff.

Success Among Clutter

Photo Cred: Commonwealth Coast Conference

This summer, the Commonwealth Coast Conference underwent a rebranding, emerging as the Conference of New England (CNE). By adopting a name that represents an entire region, the CNE aims to highlight its football programs and elevate their profile. Commissioner Patrick Colbert and his team worked tirelessly to ensure the successful launch of the CNE. They faced challenges from unexpected sources like cosplay journalists. The CNE’s new identity is set to bring a fresh appeal to its football teams and expand its reach in the football-rich New England market. Partnering with the NEWMAC for a football alliance, the CNE hopes to strengthen its presence and enhance its visibility.

Financial Obstruction

To generate additional revenue for their member schools, conferences such as Landmark and NEWMAC have teamed up with FloSports to offer a subscription-based content service. While this approach aims to boost finances amid enrollment challenges, it has faced criticism from those who misunderstand the necessity of revenue in sustaining schools. MIAA Commissioner Mike Racy’s initiative to launch the MIAA Network, which covers conference sports, was met with skepticism.

Photo Cred: Roku

However, early results indicate success, with member schools benefiting from subscription-generated funds. In a sport like football, where travel expenses can quickly deplete an athletic budget, this additional revenue is invaluable. Critics who resist change often do so out of nostalgia. They forget that financial stability is crucial for keeping college football programs viable. The struggles faced by recently shuttered institutions like Alderson Broaddus University underscore the importance of adapting to ensure the survival of college football.

Can Coach Prime Lead the Buffaloes to Glory?

By

Jordan DeBusk

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August 21, 2024

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The dog days of summer are almost over, and for sports enthusiasts, this can mean only one thing: the eagerly anticipated return of football. With less than a week until the 2024 College Football season kicks off, excitement and hope are at an all-time high across all 134 schools and their fanbases. This is the only period in the season when every team can genuinely believe they have a chance at reaching the newly expanded College Football Playoff. The playoff field is expanding from four to twelve teams, and there’s now a guaranteed spot for a Group of Five team, fueling optimism and speculation among fans.

Photo Cred: USA Today

One of the most talked-about teams heading into the new season is the Colorado Buffaloes, led by the charismatic Deion Sanders. Famously known as “Primetime” from his illustrious playing days, Sanders is entering his fifth year as a head coach and his second at Colorado. In the relatively brief time he has been in Boulder, Sanders has made a significant impact both on the field and in the media. His confidence, combined with a flair for showmanship, has placed Colorado at the forefront of the modern college football landscape.

Recent developments, such as the introduction of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals and changes in the transfer portal, have made Boulder a much more attractive destination for college athletes. Before Sanders’ arrival, Colorado had only two winning seasons since 2005, with one of those being a shortened 2020 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The program had been stuck in a cycle of mediocrity until Sanders’ arrival following the 2022 season. Since Sanders’ hiring in December, Colorado has experienced a surge in national media attention.

This spotlight is not only due to Sanders’ larger-than-life personality but also because of the substantial changes he has made to the team. The departure of numerous players and the subsequent influx of new talent have been significant. Last year, the Buffaloes showed signs of promise with notable victories over Colorado State and Nebraska. Quarterback Shedeur Sanders emerged as one of the nation’s top QBs, and Travis Hunter demonstrated his unique ability to excel on both offense and defense. Despite these bright spots, the team finished with a 4-8 record, underscoring the need for further improvement.

Photo Cred: USA Today

This offseason, Coach Prime has been proactive, bringing in 55 new players to revamp the roster. A key addition is five-star offensive tackle Jordan Seaton, who is expected to significantly strengthen a line that struggled last season, allowing 56 sacks—the second most in the FBS. Joining Seaton are transfers Kahlil Benson from Indiana, Justin Mayers from UTEP, and Tyler Johnson from Houston. Benson, who started all 12 games for Indiana last year, allowed only one sack, while Mayers and Johnson bring a wealth of experience and stability to the line. Additionally, the return of Tyler Brown, who was sidelined last season due to transfer eligibility rules, is expected to bolster the offensive line further.

The running back position also saw significant changes with the departures of Dylan Edwards, Anthony Hankerson, Sy’veon Wilkerson, and Alton McCaskill. To address these gaps, Colorado has added Dallan Hayden from Ohio State and Isaiah Augustave from Arkansas, both four-star recruits with potential. They will be joined by returning player Charlie Offerdahl and freshmen Micah Welch and Brandon Hood. This new group aims to improve a running game that failed to produce a single 100-yard rusher last season.

The receiving corps is generating considerable excitement. Travis Hunter returns with the opportunity to solidify his status as a potential Heisman candidate, thanks to his impressive skills on both offense and defense. Jimmy Horn Jr., who scored six touchdowns last season, and Omarion Miller return, complemented by high-profile transfers Will Sheppard from Vanderbilt and LaJohntay Wester from FAU. Sheppard accumulated 152 receptions for 2,067 yards and 21 touchdowns at Vanderbilt, while Wester notched 2,703 yards and 21 touchdowns at FAU, including 108 receptions for 1,168 yards last season.

On defense, while the changes are less dramatic, there are still important additions. Arizona State transfer B.J. Green II, who recorded 13.5 sacks over three years, and Pittsburgh transfer Dayon Hayes, who had 10.5 tackles for loss and four sacks last season, are significant newcomers. Samuel Okunlola, also from Pittsburgh, brings additional depth with his strong freshman performance.

Photo Cred: USA Today

The linebacker group features the return of LaVonta Bentley, who led the team in sacks last year, and Trevor Woods, transitioning from safety to linebacker. Nikhai Hill-Green, bringing experience from Michigan and Charlotte, is expected to play a key role. In the secondary, Shilo Sanders and Cam’Ron Silmon-Craig return, and Travis Hunter will again play both ways. Transfers Preston Hodge, D.J. McKinney, and Colton Hood are also set to contribute, providing stability and depth to the defensive backfield.

Overall, the Buffaloes and Coach Prime represent one of the most intriguing storylines for the 2024 season. While a playoff berth might be optimistic, a bowl game should be a realistic goal. The schedule is challenging, featuring five teams ranked in the preseason top 25 AP poll and rivalry games against Colorado State and Nebraska. With the infusion of new talent and improvements from last season, a 7-5 record with a few potential upset victories seems attainable. If the Buffaloes can secure at least four wins in their first six games, a bowl appearance under Coach Prime is very likely.

NFL’s 2024 Artist Replay Initiative Spotlights Diverse and Emerging Artists

By

Stephen Patrick

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August 21, 2024

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Renowned Photographer Cam Kirk Curates League’s Art Program That Will Culminate in Exclusive Gallery During Art Basel

NEW YORK — Aug. 21, 2024 — The National Football League announced the return of its Artist Replay program for 2024, reimagined to spotlight BIPOC and emerging artists throughout the season and culminating in an exclusive gallery during Art Basel. Renowned photographer Cam Kirk will curate five artists inspired by the world of football, as they each design and create one-of-a-kind pieces that will be on display at Miami Art Week.

Established to amplify diverse voices, the Artist Replay program connects the NFL’s rich culture with the broader arts community. Beginning in September and going throughout the season, the NFL will spotlight these five artists in content that gives an in-depth look at their artistic journeys, the creative process in their chosen mediums and the inspiration behind their Artist Replay pieces. Each profile video will set the stage for a special gallery event during Art Basel in Miami, where their designs will be displayed, providing a unique glimpse into the cultural impact of football through art.

“NFL Artist Replay blends the worlds of art and football, and with Cam’s artistic expertise and guidance, this program will bring to life talented artist interpretations of the sport,” said Eddie Capobianco, vice president of influencer marketing at the NFL. “Being able to feature their pieces in all different mediums at Art Basel is a huge opportunity to authentically connect with football fans and art lovers on a whole new level.”

Kirk, known for his work with prominent hip-hop artists like Megan Thee Stallion, Migos, Future and 21 Savage, brings a unique perspective to the program, further connecting the worlds of sports and culture.

“The goal is always to create platforms for diverse artists to shine, and where their work can resonate with people around the world,” said Cam Kirk, photographer, program curator, and founder of Cam Kirk Studios. “By amplifying their art, we’re not only elevating their voices but also deepening the connection between the game and its fans.”

As part of the program, the five selected artists will join Kirk in Miami in December to showcase their work at the NFL’s Art Basel gallery event. The artist selection includes:

Cristina Martinez, contemporary visual artist (Seattle, WA)
Julian Gaines, painter (Portland, OR)
Sophia Yeshi, illustrator and designer (Brooklyn, NY)
Murjoni Merriweather, sculptor (Temple Hills, MD)
Mike Ham, oil painter and illustrator (New York, NY)

Since its inception, the Artist Replay program has been a platform for diverse artistic expressions and this season promises to build on the initiative, bringing even more voices and stories to the forefront.

NFL Artist Replay will be featured across NFL platforms, highlighting the artists and their work at nfl.com/artistreplay.

Media contact: Paula Ngon, paula.ngon@nfl.com

For more from NFL Communications, visit NFLCommunications.com and follow @NFL345.

Top 5 NFL Head Coaches on the Hot Seat this Season

By

Sean Tessler

-

August 21, 2024

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Every NFL head coach faces pressure to win games, but some are under immense scrutiny and risk losing their job if their team underperforms this season. While many coaches face high expectations, these five stand out as being in particularly precarious positions. Here’s a deeper look at the top five coaches on the hot seat:

5. Nick Sirianni

Photo Cred: Getty Images

A year ago, it would have been almost unthinkable to suggest that Nick Sirianni could be on the hot seat. The Eagles, under his leadership, had just come off a Super Bowl appearance and seemed poised for continued success. However, the 2023 season delivered a dramatic fall from grace. After starting with a remarkable 10-1 record, the Eagles stumbled in the final stretch, losing six of their last seven games. The culmination was a 32-9 defeat to the Buccaneers in the Wild Card Round of the playoffs.

During this period, a significant rift emerged between Sirianni and quarterback Jalen Hurts. Reports indicated a ‘lack of trust’ and differing philosophies on offensive strategy. To address these issues, the Eagles brought in offensive coordinator Kellen Moore in the offseason, hoping to reconcile Hurts’ and Sirianni’s visions for the offense. If the Eagles’ performance doesn’t improve in 2024 and they fail to meet expectations, Sirianni could find himself on the outs.

4. Dennis Allen

Photo Cred: Michael C. Herbert/ New Orleans Saints

Dennis Allen has had a rocky tenure as head coach of the New Orleans Saints, with both of his seasons falling short of fan expectations. In 2022, the team struggled to a 7-10 record and finished third in a division where no team had a winning record. The following year, the Saints posted a slightly improved 9-8 record but still missed the playoffs, which was a significant disappointment given the close nature of their season.

The competition in the NFC South has only intensified, with the Atlanta Falcons making notable improvements at quarterback and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers retaining a solid roster. With heightened expectations for the Saints to at least reach the playoffs, Dennis Allen faces a make-or-break situation. If he fails to guide the team to postseason play, it could mark the end of his head coaching career.

3. Brian Daboll

Photo Cred: Getty Images

Brian Daboll’s inclusion on this list is unexpected given his impressive achievements just two years ago. In 2022, he was awarded the Coach of the Year for leading the New York Giants to the divisional round of the playoffs. He turned around a team that had been struggling for years. However, the 2023 season was a dramatic reversal of fortunes. The Giants began the year with a disheartening 40-0 loss to the Dallas Cowboys and the season never recovered. Injuries, particularly at the quarterback position, contributed to a disappointing 6-11 finish and a missed playoff opportunity.

With the departure of running back Saquon Barkley and no significant upgrades to the quarterback room, the Giants face an uphill battle. Daboll must navigate these challenges and make the most of the talent available. Failure to do so could lead to him coaching his final season with the Giants.

2. Robert Saleh

Photo Cred: AP Photo/ Steven Senne

Robert Saleh’s tenure with the New York Jets has been marked by persistent quarterback issues, contributing to the team’s 13-season playoff drought, the longest in the NFL. The arrival of Aaron Rodgers was supposed to be a game-changer for the Jets. However, just four plays into the 2023 season, Rodgers suffered a torn Achilles, derailing the team’s playoff aspirations.

Despite the setback, the Jets have built a strong defense, highlighted by standout players like cornerback Sauce Gardner. With Rodgers returning and the roster bolstered, the Jets are expected to contend. If Saleh fails to lead the team to the playoffs for a 14th consecutive year, he will likely face significant scrutiny and possibly be let go.

1. Mike McCarthy

Photo Cred: USA Today

The NFC East could see substantial changes in coaching staff by 2025, and Mike McCarthy is at the forefront of this potential upheaval. Like Sirianni and Daboll, McCarthy has experienced regular-season success and some postseason achievements. However, his tenure with the Dallas Cowboys has been marred by repeated playoff disappointments. The most recent setback came when the Cowboys were soundly beaten by the Packers, 48-32, on their home field.

This loss was particularly notable as it marked the first time a seventh-seeded team had ever defeated a second-seeded team in the playoffs. Despite this, owner Jerry Jones chose to retain McCarthy for the upcoming season. With high expectations for the Cowboys and a strong roster, the pressure is on McCarthy to deliver. Another postseason collapse or failure to make the playoffs could very well lead to his dismissal. Jones will likely be seeking a new direction for the team.

Each of these coaches faces a critical season ahead, and their ability to navigate the challenges and meet expectations will be crucial to their job security. The stakes are high, and failure could lead to significant changes for their respective teams.

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