Big Ten Athletes Bring Home 98 Medals from Paris Olympics

Uncategorized

By

-

August 13, 2024

ROSEMONT, Ill. – Big Ten Conference athletes past and present won a total of 98 medals as the 2024 Summer Olympic Games concluded August 11 in Paris, France.

A total of 356 athletes with ties to the 18 Big Ten Conference institutions traveled to Paris — a group that consisted of active student-athletes, alumni, transfer students and coaches competing as athletes. The Big Ten contingent represented 64 nations.

Photo Cred: SI

A look at some of the numbers from Paris:

The Big Ten accumulated 98 total medals — 27 gold, 31 silver and 40 bronze. The total medal count and number of golds surpassed the previous conference records of 51 and 22 respectively, set at the Tokyo Games held in 2021.

The Big Ten accounted for 26 percent of the 257 medalists that took the podium for the U.S. Olympic Team.
Big Ten athletes won medals for 13 different countries and territories: Australia, Canada, Dominica, France, Germany, Great Britan, Hong Kong, Netherlands, Poland, Puerto Rico, Spain, New Zealand and United States.
Fourteen medalists, along with 78 other Olympians, are expected to return to campus and compete in various sports this year in the Big Ten Conference.
Six athletes won multiple medals:

Siobhán Haughey, Michigan (2016-19), Hong Kong, Swimming — 2 bronzes
Charlie Swanson, Michigan (2016-20), United States, Swimming — gold, silver
Hunter Armstrong, Ohio State (2020-22), United States, Swimming — gold, silver
Stephen Nedoroscik, Penn State (2017-20), United States, Gymnastics — 2 bronzes
Rai Benjamin, UCLA/USC (2016-18), United States, Track & Field — 2 golds
Nicole Yeargin, USC (2020-21), Great Britain, Track & Field — 2 bronzes

Maryland’s Thea Lafond (2012-15) became the first-ever medalist for the Commonwealth of Dominica, winning the triple jump competition.

Listed below are the medal winners:

Gold (27):
Lilly King, Indiana (United States) — Women’s Swimming, 4x100m Medley Relay
Matt King, Indiana (United States) — Men’s Swimming, 4x100m Freestyle Relay-Prelim
Thea Lafond, Maryland (Dominica) — Women’s Track & Field, Triple Jump
Alyssa Thomas, Maryland (United States) — Women’s Basketball
Charlie Swanson, Michigan (United States) — Men’s Swimming, Mixed 4x100m Medley Relay-Prelim
Hunter Armstrong, Ohio State (United States) — Men’s Swimming, 4x100m Freestyle Relay
Cole Hocker, Oregon (United States) — Men’s Track & Field, 1,500m
Sabrina Ionescu, Oregon (United States) — Women’s Basketball
Elisa Mevius, Oregon (Germany) — Women’s 3×3 Basketball
Sam Coffey, Penn State (United States) — Women’s Soccer
Alexis Holmes, Penn State (United States) — Women’s Track & Field, 4x400m Relay
Alyssa Naeher, Penn States (United States) — Women’s Soccer
Kahleah Cooper, Rutgers (United States) — Women’s Basketball
Casey Murphy, Rutgers (United States) — Women’s Soccer
Jordan Chiles, UCLA (United States) — Women’s Gymnastics, Team
Jrue Holiday, UCLA (United States) — Men’s Basketball
Mallory Swanson, UCLA (United States) — Women’s Soccer
Rai Benjamin, UCLA/USC (United States) — Men’s Track & Field, 400m Hurdles
Rai Benjamin, UCLA/USC (United States) — Men’s Track & Field, 4x400m Relay
Croix Bethune, USC (United States) — Women’s Soccer
Aaron Brown, USC (Canada) — Men’s Track & Field, 4x100m Relay
Andre De Grasse, USC (Canada) — Men’s Track & Field, 4x100m Relay
Anni Espar, USC (Spain) — Women’s Water Polo
Twanisha (TeeTee) Terry, USC (United States) — Women’s Track & Field, 4x100m Relay
Jacob Dawson, Washington (Great Britain) — Men’s Rowing, Eight
Kelsey Plum, Washington (United States) — Women’s Basketball
Rose Lavelle, Wisconsin (United States) — Women’s Soccer

Silver (31):
Jordyn Poulter, Illinois (United States) — Women’s Volleyball
Rajeev Ram, Illinois (United States) — Men’s Tennis, Doubles
Anna Peplowski, Indiana (United States) — Women’s Swimming, 4x200m Freestyle-Prelim
Blake Pieroni, Indiana (United States) — Men’s Swimming, 4x200m Freestyle Relay
Kennedy Blades, Iowa (United States) — Women’s Wrestling, Freestyle 76kg
Spencer Lee, Iowa (United States) — Men’s Wrestling, Freestyle 57kg
Abby Andrews, Michigan (Australia) — Women’s Water Polo
Abby Dent, Michigan (Canada) — Women’s Rowing, Eight
Charlie Swanson, Michigan (United States), Men’s Swimming, 4x100m Medley Relay
Sarah Bacon, Minnesota (United States) — Women’s Diving, Synchronized 3m Springboard
Jordan Larson, Nebraska (United States) — Women’s Volleyball
Kelsey Robinson, Nebraska (United States) — Women’s Volleyball
Justine Wong-Orantes, Nebraska (United States) — Women’s Volleyball
Hunter Armstrong, Ohio State (United States) — Men’s Swimming, 4x100m Medley Relay
Keana Hunter, Ohio State (United States) — Artistic Swimming, Team
Ruby Remati, Ohio State (United States) — Artistic Swimming, Team
Jessica Hull, Oregon (Australia) — Women’s Track & Field, 1500m
Micha Hancock, Penn State (United States) — Women’s Volleyball
Joe Kovacs, Penn State (United States) — Men’s Track & Field, Shot Put
Haleigh Washington, Penn State (United States) — Women’s Volleyball
Annie Drews, Purdue (United States) — Women’s Volleyball
Tom Daley, UCLA (Great Britain) — Men’s Diving, Synchronized 10m Platform
Sienna Green, UCLA (Australia) — Women’s Water Polo
Bronte Halligan, UCLA (Australia) — Women’s Water Polo
Daniella Ramirez, UCLA (United States) — Artistic Swimming, Team
Anna Cockrell, USC (United States) — Women’s Track & Field, 400m Hurdles
Tilly Kearns, USC (Australia) — Women’s Water Polo
Logan Ullrich, Washington (New Zealand) — Men’s Rowing, Four
Gert-Jan van Doorn, Washington (Netherlands) — Men’s Rowing, Eight
Lauren Carlini, Wisconsin (United States) — Women’s Volleyball
Dana Rettke, Wisconsin (United States) — Women’s Volleyball

Bronze (40):
Brittany Brown, Iowa (United States) — Women’s Track & Field, 200m
Eve Stewart, Iowa (Great Britain) — Women’s Rowing, Eight
Siobhán Haughey, Michigan (Hong Kong) — Women’s Swimming, 100m Freestyle
Siobhán Haughey, Michigan (Hong Kong) — Women’s Swimming, 200m Freestyle
Paul Juda, Michigan (United States) — Men’s Gymnastics, Team
Alena Olsen, Michigan (United States) — Women’s Rugby Sevens
Fred Richard, Michigan (United States) — Men’s Gymnastics, Team
Maximillien Chastanet, Ohio State (France) — Men’s Fencing, Team Foil
Eleanor Harvey, Ohio State (Canada) — Women’s Fencing, Individual Foil
Matt Anderson, Penn State (United States) — Men’s Volleyball
Aaron Brooks, Penn State (United States) — Men’s Wrestling, Freestyle 86kg
Kayla Canett, Penn State (United States) — Women’s Rugby Sevens
Laura Freigang, Penn State (Germany) — Women’s Soccer
Maxwell Holt, Penn State (United States) — Men’s Volleyball
Renata Knapik-Miazga, Penn State (Poland) — Women’s Fencing, Epee, Team
Stephen Nedoroscik, Penn State (United States) — Men’s Gymnastics, Team
Stephen Nedoroscik, Penn State (United States) — Mens Gymnastics, Pommel Horse
Aaron Russell, Penn State (United States) — Men’s Volleyball
Sebastian Rivera, Northwestern/Rutgers (Puerto Rico) — Men’s Wrestling, Freestyle 65kg
Chase Dodd, UCLA (United States) — Men’s Water Polo
Ryder Dodd, UCLA (United States) — Men’s Water Polo
Max Irving, UCLA (United States) — Men’s Water Polo
Micah Ma’a, UCLA (United States) — Mens Volleyball
Garrett Muagututia, UCLA (United States) — Men’s Volleyball
Micah Christenson, USC (United States) — Men’s Volleyball
Hannes Daube, USC (United States) — Men’s Water Polo
Yemi John, USC (Great Britain) — Women’s Track & Field, 4x400m Relay-Prelim
Marko Vavic, USC (United States) — Men’s Water Polo
Nicole Yeargin, USC (Great Britain) — Women’s Track & Field, 4x400m Relay
Nicole Yeargin, USC (Great Britain) — Women’s Track & Field, Mixed 4x400m Relay-Prelim
Christopher Carlson, Washington (United States) — Men’s Rowing, Eight
Holly Dunford, Washington (Great Britain) — Women’s Rowing, Eight
Rielly Milne, Washington (United States) — Men’s Rowing, Eight
Evan Olson, Washington (United States) — Men’s Rowing, Eight
Pieter Quinton, Washington (United States) — Men’s Rowing, Eight
Tabea Schendekehl, Washington (Germany) — Women’s Rowing, Quadruple Sculls
Phoebe Spoors, Washington (New Zealand) — Women’s Rowing, Four
Simon van Dorp, Washington (Netherlands) — Men’s Rowing, Single Sculls
Sami Whitcomb, Washington (Australia) — Women’s Basketball
Alev Kelter, Wisconsin (United States) — Women’s Rugby Sevens

Contact:
Daniel Jankowski
Associate Director, Communications
(847) 737-8635
djankowski@bigten.org

Iowa Linebackers Jay Higgins & Nick Jackson Named to Butkus Award Watch List

By

Stephen Patrick

-

August 13, 2024

0

IOWA CITY, Iowa – University of Iowa linebackers Jay Higgins and Nick Jackson have been named to the Butkus Award Watch List, it was announced Tuesday. Higgins and Jackson are two of 51 linebackers named to the watch list this season – a nod to the storied “51” pro jersey worn by the award’s namesake, the late Dick Butkus. Candidates represent 44 colleges and universities and includes two 2023 semifinalists – Higgins and Alabama’s Deontae Lawson.

Photo Cred: USA Today

Iowa is one of seven programs, along with Alabama, Kentucky, Ohio State, Oklahoma State, South Carolina and Utah, to have two linebackers on the list. Higgins (6-foot-2, 232 pounds) recorded 171 tackles (79 solo, 92 assists) during the 2023 season, which led the Big Ten and ranked third nationally. The tackle total tied Iowa’s single-season record. The Indianapolis native was a FWAA first-team All-American.

This season, Higgins is Phil Steele’s Preseason National Defensive Player of the Year. He is also on the watch lists for the Bronko Nagurski Trophy, Chuck Bednarik Award and Wuerffel Award, while being a preseason first-team All-America selection. Jackson (6-2, 235), finished with 110 tackles (51 solo, 59 assists) to rank second on the team and fourth in the Big Ten in his first season as a Hawkeye. The Atlanta native earned third-team All-Big Ten honors by the league media and honorable mention recognition by the league coaches in 2023.

Jackson, who enters his sixth year with 464 tackles – the 12th-most in FBS history – has also been named to the Nagurski and Bednarik Watch Lists leading into the 2024 campaign. Jack Campbell won the Butkus Award in 2022, while Larry Station finished second in the voting in 1985. Josey Jewell was a finalist in 2016 and the program had semifinalists in 2005 (Chad Greenway), 2017 (Jewell), 2021 (Campbell) and 2023 (Higgins). Award semifinalists are expected to be named Nov. 4, with finalists named Nov. 25 and the winner named by Dec. 10.

Appearing on the watch list is not a requirement to win the award. The 2024 Butkus Award winners at the high school, college and pro level will be honored at an event planned for early 2025 at Memorial Stadium at the University of Illinois as part of the Big Ten Network television special. The 51-person Butkus Award selection committee comprised of coaches, scouts and journalists guides the selection process emphasizing qualities that defined Dick Butkus’ career: toughness, on-field leadership, competitiveness, football character and linebacking skills. The award is increasingly focused on recognizing linebackers who consistently play off the ball on their feet in a two-point stance in traditional form. The Hawkeyes open the 2024 season Aug. 31, hosting Illinois State at 11 a.m. (CT) inside Kinnick Stadium. The game is sold out.

HAWKEYES ON 2024 WATCH LISTS
* Sebastian Castro – Bronko Nagurski Trophy (D-POY) // Chuck Bednarik Award (D-POY) // Jim Thorpe Award (DB)
* Jay Higgins — Butkus Award (LB) // Bronko Nagurski Trophy (D-POY) // Chuck Bednarik Award (D-POY) // Wuerffel Award (community service)
* Nick Jackson — Butkus Award (LB) // Bronko Nagurski Trophy (D-POY) // Chuck Bednarik Award (D-POY)
* Leshon Williams — Doak Walker Award (RB)
* Logan Jones – Outland Trophy (OL) // Rimington Award (C)
* Drew Stevens – Lou Groza Award (PK)
* Luke Elkin — Mannelly Award (LS)
* Cade McNamara – Comeback POY
* Luke Lachey – Mackey Award (TE) // Comeback POY

James Allan
Associate Director, Strategic Communications

Football (Secondary), Men’s Basketball, Women’s Golf, Women’s Tennis
S300 Carver-Hawkeye Arena | Iowa City, Iowa | 52242
Mobile: 319-530-5792 | Office: 319-335-6439

Twitter: @jcallan04

NFL Network Carries Six Preseason Week 2 Games Live

By

Stephen Patrick

-

August 13, 2024

0

Live Preseason Week 2 Schedule Kicks Off Thursday, Aug. 15 with Philadelphia Eagles versus New England Patriots at 7 p.m. ET

Quadruple-Header of Live Games on NFL Network Saturday, Aug. 17 Starting at 1 p.m. ET

Green Bay Packers versus Denver Broncos on Sunday, Aug. 18 at 8 p.m. ETINGLEWOOD, Calif. — Aug. 13, 2024 — NFL Network’s Preseason Week 2 schedule features six live games – including a quadruple-header on Saturday, Aug. 17 – and re-airs of every game.

NFL Network’s live schedule of Preseason Week 2 games kicks off Thursday, Aug. 15 when the New England Patriots host the Philadelphia Eagles at 7 p.m. ET. Leading up to the game, “NFL GameDay Kickoff” airs at 6 p.m. ET with host Rhett Lewis, and analysts Daniel Jeremiah and Bucky Brooks. Following the game, “NFL GameDay Final” airs at 10 p.m. ET with Lewis, Jeremiah and Brooks.

On Saturday, Aug. 17, NFL Network broadcasts a quadruple-header, starting at 1 p.m. ET when the Chicago Bears host the Cincinnati Bengals. Saturday’s quadruple-header continues at 4 p.m. ET when the Kansas City Chiefs host the Detroit Lions, followed by the Buffalo Bills versus the Pittsburgh Steelers at 7 p.m. ET. The quadruple-header concludes at 10 p.m. ET when the Las Vegas Raiders host the Dallas Cowboys. “NFL GameDay Kickoff” airs at noon ET with Rhett Lewis, Brian Baldinger and Steve Wyche.

NFL Network’s Preseason Week 2 live coverage concludes Sunday, Aug. 18 at 8 p.m. ET with the Green Bay Packers versus the Denver Broncos. Leading up to the game, “NFL GameDay Kickoff” airs at 7 p.m. ET with host Mike Yam, and analysts Gerald McCoy and Brian Baldinger. Following the game, “NFL GameDay Final” airs at 11 p.m. ET with Yam, McCoy and Baldinger.

Live preseason games on NFL Network are subject to blackouts in the local markets of the participating teams as they will be available on broadcast television in those areas. NFL Network also provides re-airs of every Preseason Week 2 game.

NFL Network– including 21 live preseason games – is available across devices with NFL+, and on an authenticated basis through NFL Network distributors’ apps and sites and NFL platforms. For more information, visit NFL.com/watch. NFL+ provides access to live out-of-market preseason games and is available through NFL digital properties (NFL.com and the NFL app). For more information, visit NFL.com/plus.

The 2024 NFL season is almost here, and single game tickets are on sale now. Visit NFL.com/tickets to purchase tickets. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster, SeatGeek and Sports Illustrated Tickets – members of the NFL Ticket Network.

NFL Network’s 2024 Preseason Week 2 Schedule

Thursday, Aug. 15
7 p.m. ET – Philadelphia Eagles vs. New England Patriots – LIVE
11 p.m. ET – Philadelphia Eagles vs. New England Patriots
2 a.m. ET – Washington Commanders vs. New York Jets
5 a.m. ET – Philadelphia Eagles vs. New England Patriots

Friday, Aug. 16
2 p.m. ET – Las Vegas Raiders vs. Minnesota Vikings (Preseason Week 1)
4:30 p.m. ET – Philadelphia Eagles vs. New England Patriots
8 p.m. ET – Chicago Bears vs. Buffalo Bills (Preseason Week 1)
Midnight ET – Denver Broncos vs. Indianapolis Colts (Preseason Week 1)
3 a.m. ET – Kansas City Chiefs vs. Jacksonville Jaguars (Preseason Week 1)

Saturday, Aug. 17
6 a.m. ET – Dallas Cowboys vs. Los Angeles Rams (Preseason Week 1)
9 a.m. ET – Philadelphia Eagles vs. New England Patriots
1 p.m. ET – Cincinnati Bengals vs. Chicago Bears – LIVE
4 p.m. ET – Detroit Lions vs. Kansas City Chiefs – LIVE
7 p.m. ET – Buffalo Bills vs. Pittsburgh Steelers – LIVE
10 p.m. ET – Dallas Cowboys vs. Las Vegas Raiders – LIVE
1 a.m. ET – Los Angeles Rams vs. Los Angeles Chargers
3:30 a.m. ET – Seattle Seahawks vs. Tennessee Titans

Sunday, Aug. 18
6 a.m. ET – Atlanta Falcons vs. Baltimore Ravens
9 a.m. ET – Washington Commanders vs. Miami Dolphins
11:30 a.m. ET – Detroit Lions vs. Kansas City Chiefs
2 p.m. ET – Buffalo Bills vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
4:30 p.m. ET – Dallas Cowboys vs. Las Vegas Raiders
8 p.m. ET – Green Bay Packers vs. Denver Broncos – LIVE
Midnight ET – New Orleans Saints vs. San Francisco 49ers
2:30 a.m. ET – Arizona Cardinals vs. Indianapolis Colts
5 a.m. ET – New York Giants vs. Houston Texans

Monday, Aug. 19
Noon ET – Minnesota Vikings vs. Cleveland Browns
3 p.m. ET – New York Jets vs. Carolina Panthers
8 p.m. ET – Buffalo Bills vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
1 a.m. ET – Detroit Lions vs. Kansas City Chiefs
3:30 a.m. ET – Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Jacksonville Jaguars

Tuesday, Aug. 20
Noon ET – Atlanta Falcons vs. Baltimore Ravens
3 p.m. ET – Cincinnati Bengals vs. Chicago Bears
8 p.m. ET – Dallas Cowboys vs. Las Vegas Raiders
1 a.m. ET – New Orleans Saints vs. San Francisco 49ers
3:30 a.m. ET – Seattle Seahawks vs. Tennessee Titans

Wednesday, Aug. 21
Noon ET – Washington Commanders vs. Miami Dolphins
3 p.m. ET – New York Giants vs. Houston Texans
8 p.m. ET – Green Bay Packers vs. Denver Broncos
1 a.m. ET – Los Angeles Rams vs. Los Angeles Chargers
3:30 a.m. ET – Arizona Cardinals vs. Indianapolis Colts

Thursday, Aug. 22
2 p.m. ET – Cincinnati Bengals vs. Chicago Bears
4:30 p.m. ET – Detroit Lions vs. Kansas City Chiefs

***Please note that all live games on NFL Network are subject to local blackouts as they will be available on broadcast television in those areas***

The following broadcast teams will be calling each Preseason Week 2 matchup on NFL Network:

Game	Play-by-Play	Analyst	Sideline
Eagles vs. Patriots	N/A	Scott Zolak, Jason McCourty & Devin McCourty	Steve Burton
Falcons vs. Ravens	Gerry Sandusky	Rod Woodson	Evan Washburn
Bengals vs. Bears	Adam Amin	Jim Miller	Lou Cannelis
Giants vs. Texans	Kevin Kugler	ND Kalu & John Harris	Shelby Coppedge
Lions vs. Chiefs	Ari Wolfe	Trent Green	Matt McMullen
Vikings vs. Browns	Chris Rose	Nathan Zegura	Aditi Kinkhabwala
Bills vs. Steelers	Bob Pompeani	Charlie Batch	Missi Matthews
Jets vs. Panthers	Anish Shroff	Steve Smith Sr.	Carla Gebhart
Commanders vs. Dolphins	Steve Goldstein	Kim Bokamper	Mike Cugano
Seahawks vs. Titans	Paul Burmeister	Charles Davis	Cory Curtis
Rams vs. Chargers	Noah Eagle	Dan Fouts	Jaime Maggio
Cardinals vs. Colts	Greg Rakestraw	Rick Venturi	Larra Overton
Buccaneers vs. Jaguars	Brian Sexton	Bucky Brooks	Brent Martineau
Cowboys vs. Raiders	Jason Horowitz	Rich Gannon & Matt Millen	N/A
Saints vs. 49ers	Adam Amin	Mark Sanchez	Kristina Pink
Packers vs. Broncos	Steve Levy	Ryan Harris	Scotty Gange & Cynthia Frelund

For every live preseason game on NFL Network, alternate feeds will be shown in the primary markets of the two competing teams. Here are the alternate feeds for Preseason Week 2 games:

In Philadelphia and New England markets on Thursday, Aug. 15 at 7 p.m. ET – Kansas City Chiefs vs. Jacksonville Jaguars (Preseason Week 1)
In Cincinnati and Chicago markets on Saturday, Aug. 17 at 1 p.m. ET – New York Giants vs. Houston Texans – LIVE
In Detroit and Kansas City markets on Saturday, Aug. 17 at 4 p.m. ET – Atlanta Falcons vs. Baltimore Ravens
In Buffalo and Pittsburgh markets on Saturday, Aug. 17 at 7 p.m. ET – Washington Commanders vs. Miami Dolphins – LIVE
In Dallas and Las Vegas markets on Saturday, Aug. 17 at 10 p.m. ET – Minnesota Vikings vs. Cleveland Browns
In Green Bay and Denver markets on Sunday, Aug. 18 at 8 p.m. ET – New York Giants vs. Houston Texans (Aug. 17)

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

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

Seattle Shows Promising Performance in Victory Over Chargers

By

Sean Tessler

-

August 12, 2024

0

Saturday’s 16-3 triumph over the Los Angeles Chargers marked Mike MacDonald’s first win as the Seahawks head coach. The game offered promising signs that Seattle’s defense is heading in the right direction.

Improvement in the Front Seven

Photo Cred: Photo Cred: USATS

Seattle’s defense struggled significantly last season, particularly against the run. In 2023, the Seahawks allowed nearly 140 rushing yards per game and an average of 4.6 yards per carry, ranking them among the worst in the NFL. However, Saturday’s game provided hope for a turnaround. The Seahawks limited the Chargers to just 77 rushing yards and 4.3 yards per carry. Moreover, Seattle’s defense showed marked improvement on third downs, where they had previously struggled.

In 2023, the Seahawks allowed opponents to convert over 46% of third downs, contributing to an average time of possession of just under 27 minutes—dead last in the league. Seattle held the Chargers to just 2-of-13 on third downs (a 15% success rate). This efficiency allowed the Seahawks’ offense to control the game, resulting in a time of possession of over 39 minutes, nearly doubling the Chargers’ time on the field. If this trend continues, the Seahawks could lead the league in average time of possession.

A Bunch of Ball Hawks

Photo Cred: USATS

Seattle’s secondary has been bolstered by savvy draft picks like Riq Woolen, Devon Witherspoon, and Coby Bryant. On Saturday, they continued to make their mark. Although Woolen played only a few drives, he allowed no completions and nearly secured an interception. Coby Bryant, in particular, stood out with an interception and nearly had another.

Bryant, who has had to adapt from cornerback to safety and overcome a toe injury, attributed his performance to the rigorous practices under Coach MacDonald. “I feel like Coach Mike (MacDonald) challenges us really hard in practice, which helps us perform better in games,” said Bryant in a press conference.

Seattle’s secondary will need to maintain this level of play to improve upon their 2023 performance, where they ranked poorly in passing yards allowed. The Seahawks’ preseason success was evident as they limited the Chargers to just 121 passing yards and no touchdowns.

Byron Murphy II’s Debut

Photo Cred: Staph Chambers/Getty Images

Byron Murphy II, the 16th overall pick in the 2024 draft, made an immediate impact in his NFL debut. Murphy II recorded a tackle for loss and came close to a sack. Despite his strong performance, he acknowledged areas for improvement. “It’s a learning experience. Finishing plays is something I need to work on,” Murphy II said post-game.

Seattle hopes Murphy II’s debut is a sign of the dominant presence he will bring to the Seahawks’ front seven, potentially transforming their defensive line into a formidable force.

Preseason Super 16 Poll

College

By

Memphis Spence

-

August 12, 2024

0

The pollsters consist of FWAA members and College Football Hall of Famers. The poll aims to draw on the vast knowledge of the group and their extensive experience in college football.

Rank	School	Points	X Handle	# Hashtag
1	Georgia	835	@GeorgiaFootball	#GeorgiaFootball
2	Ohio State	760	@OhioStateFB	#GoBucks
3	Texas	734	@TexasFootball	#HookEm
4	Oregon	685	@oregonfootball	#GoDucks
5	Alabama	601	@AlabamaFTBL	#RollTide
6	Ole Miss	486	@OleMissFB	#HottyToddy
7	Penn State	460	@PennStateFball	#WeAre
8	Notre Dame	450	@NDFootball	#GoIrish
9	Florida State	428	@FSUFootball	#KeepCLIMBing
10	Michigan	422	@umichfootball	#GoBlue
11	Missouri	262	@MizzouFootball	#Mizzou
12	LSU	247	@LSUfootball	#GeauxTigers
13	Utah	234	@Utah_Football	#GoUtes
14	Tennessee	160	@Vol_Football	#PoweredByTheT
15	Clemson	154	@ClemsonFB	#clemson
16	Oklahoma	117	@OU_Football	#OUDNA

OTHERS RECEIVING VOTES:

Miami, FL (56), Oklahoma State (45), Washington (40), Kansas State (38), Texas A&M (32), Arizona (14), Iowa (13), USC (12), NC State (9), Auburn (9), Florida (8), Rutgers (7), Iowa State (7), Houston (6), Louisville (3), Virginia Tech (3), Tulane (2), Wisconsin (2), Nebraska (1), Boise State (1), Mississippi State (1).

NOTES:
Georgia dominated the Super 16 Preseason Poll with 38 of 54 first place votes, marking the Bulldogs’ 35^th all-time appearance at No. 1. Georgia continues to have the second-most appearances at No. 1, only behind Alabama’s 61 appearances in the top spot. Their appearance at No. 1 also marks the 56^th time in the last 57 weeks an SEC team has claimed the top ranking.

Ohio State finished second with 11 first place votes and 75 points behind Georgia, and Texas claimed the No. 3 spot with two first place votes.

Oregon’s No. 4 ranking marks the highest ranking for the Ducks since being ranked No. 3 on Nov. 14, 2021.

No. 5 Alabama maintains its streak as the only team to appear in the poll each week dating back to 2014, a span of 135 weeks.

Ole Miss landed at No. 6, marking the highest ranking for the Rebels since claiming the No. 3 spot on Sept. 27, 2015.

Defending national champion Michigan will start the season at No. 10, the lowest for the Wolverines since claiming the No. 10 ranking on Oct. 31, 2021.

The SEC is represented in the poll by eight teams, which is a record for appearances in a single week. The Big Ten had four teams in the poll, followed by the ACC with two, the Big 12 and FBS Independents with one each.

The eventual national champion has been ranked in the top six of the preseason poll eight times since 2015. Alabama in 2017 is the only national champion to start the season ranked No. 1 in the preseason poll.

Sincerely,

The FWAA-NFF Super 16 Poll Support Team

Steve Richardson: tigerfwaa@gmail.com or 214-870-6516

Phil Marwill: pmarwill@footballfoundation.com 917-579-4256

Cody Kellner: cody_kellner@hotmail.com or 254-214-4242

AP TOP 25 COLLEGE FOOTBALL POLL

College

By

Stephen Patrick

-

August 12, 2024

0

RANKINGS

Released August 12

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

OTHERS RECEIVING VOTES:

Louisville 111, Virginia Tech 77, Boise St. 47, SMU 33, Iowa St. 33, Liberty 32, Washington 23, West Virginia 17, Memphis 16, Nebraska 16, Wisconsin 15, UTSA 6, Tulane 5, Appalachian St. 4, Kentucky 3, Auburn 2, Colorado 1.

Micah Parsons is the Best Defensive Player in the NFL

By

Iliyan Lakhani

-

August 12, 2024

0

The Dallas Cowboys defense has long been a formidable force in the NFL. They have edge rusher DeMarcus Lawrence with four Pro Bowl selections. At defensive back is superstar cornerback Trevon Diggs with an All-Pro selection in 2021. To further strengthen their defense, Dallas selected Penn State linebacker Micah Parsons 12th overall.

Photo Cred: Pro Football Network

Parsons accumulated 6.5 sacks, 19 tackles for loss, five pass deflections, and six forced fumbles with the Nittany Lions. His athleticism was on full display at the combine. He recorded a 34-inch vertical jump and a blazing 4.36-second 40-yard dash. These impressive statistics, combined with his generational frame of 6-foot-3 and 246 pounds, provided compelling reasons for the Cowboys to draft the former five-star recruit in the first round.

After Parsons’ rookie season in Dallas, it was clear he would be a key part of the defense. He delivered one of the most impressive rookie campaigns in NFL history. The linebacker totaled 13 sacks, three pass deflections, and three forced fumbles. Parsons earned him a Pro Bowl, First-Team All-Pro honors, and an AP Defensive Rookie of the Year award.

In his second season, Parsons had a defensive touchdown, 13.5 sacks, three forced fumbles, and three pass deflections. He was again named to the Pro Bowl and First-Team All-Pro. He finished second in Defensive Player of the Year voting and eighth in MVP. NFL coaches began to fear Parsons’ ability to dismantle opposing offensive lines, and he was emerging as one of the league’s premier faces.

Photo Cred: ABC

At just 25 years old, heading into his fourth season, Parsons has only begun to tap into his potential for McCarthy and the Cowboys. His versatility allows him to impact various facets of the game, whether rushing the passer or defending against the run. Parsons is undoubtedly one of the most dominant players in the NFL. If the Cowboys win the NFC East and Parsons delivers standout performances, he could very well be considered for the MVP award as the league’s best defender.

Does Stephen Curry Qualify as Top Ten in NBA History?

By

Iliyan Lakhani

-

August 12, 2024

0

221117104349-steph-curry — Photo Cred: SKY Sports

Emerging from Davidson College, Stephen Curry was hailed as one of the most electrifying scorers to enter the NBA Draft. Despite his modest six-foot-two stature, Curry possessed a jump shot that would come to define a generation. His ability to move off the ball, shoot from virtually any distance, and set up his teammates was unparalleled. While many teams overlooked him due to his size, the Golden State Warriors and Jerry West recognized his potential. They selected him at number seven—a decision that would forever alter the game.

Photo Cred: CNN

Although Curry did not win Rookie of the Year, he made an immediate impact during his first season with the Warriors. He averaged 17.5 points per game and shooting nearly 44% from three-point range on 4.8 attempts. These statistics hinted at the rise of a superstar in the Bay Area. By the age of 24, the Davidson sharpshooter had secured a spot in the All-Star rotation and made a strong case for the league’s Most Improved Player award.

The following season, Golden State’s home-grown core of Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green dominated a tough Western Conference. They faced LeBron James and Kyrie Irving in the NBA Finals, capturing the championship in six games. Curry delivered a legendary performance in his first Finals appearance, averaging 28.3 points per game on a 60.7 true shooting percentage. By this point, he was widely regarded as one of the best players in the world.

Photo Cred: Sky Sports

Curry’s impact extends beyond the court, influencing the global basketball community in profound ways. His distinctive style of play has inspired countless young players to emulate his skills. Fans have adopted his diet, pre-game rituals, off-ball movements, and jump shot techniques. All in an effort to replicate his on-court success. As a world champion, Curry has become a role model, and his influence has propelled him to the forefront of the NBA. His signature shoe with Under Armour, released in 2015, became a coveted item for fans of all ages.

Over the next nine seasons, Curry earned eight All-Star selections, eight All-NBA Team honors, and three championships. He won two MVP awards and one Finals MVP. He holds several records, including the most three-pointers made in a season and numerous franchise milestones in points, assists, steals, and games played. No player in history has impacted the game quite like Curry, solidifying his place in elite company. Given his remarkable statistics and accolades, it would be a mistake to overlook the seventh-overall pick in any discussion of the greatest players of all time.

The Pelicans Can Win the Western Conference Next Season

By

Sean Tessler

-

August 9, 2024

0

As the regular season nears its end, NBA front offices face a pivotal moment. Some teams aim for immediate championship contention, while others build for the future. The New Orleans Pelicans have managed to strike a balance between these two objectives in recent months. They have bolstered their roster with top-tier talent while offloading unfavorable contracts and addressing previous liabilities in their rotation.

The Pelicans’ front office made a significant move by acquiring Dejounte Murray from the Atlanta Hawks. While parting with quality players like Dyson Daniels and Larry Nance Jr., they brought in a player dedicated to contributing on both ends of the court. In his two seasons with the Hawks, Murray earned a reputation as a subpar defender, largely due to the heavy offensive responsibilities placed on him, which drained his defensive energy.

Photo Cred: NBA

With the Pelicans, Murray will not carry the primary scoring duties. Instead, head coach Willie Green will expect him to play hard, focus on defense, and facilitate in the half-court. This role mirrors what Murray did in his final season with the Spurs, where he earned his first All-Star selection. At just 27 years old, Murray has the potential to revert to his previous defensive form.

Alongside Murray, the Pelicans boast a formidable trio: Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram, and CJ McCollum. These players will overwhelm opponents with their scoring ability and athleticism. Additionally, Green has valuable role players in Herb Jones and Trey Murphy coming off the bench. The roster is rich with star power, experience, and depth. If managed well, there’s little doubt the Pelicans could secure a top-three seed in the Western Conference.

Photo Cred: NBA.com

The team’s primary concern is its injury history, particularly with Williamson. Although Williamson is a force in the paint, capable of finishing through contact and dunking with ease, the Pelicans struggle significantly when he is out. For New Orleans to make a deep playoff run, the health and availability of Williamson will be crucial as the season progresses.

Memphis Spence’s Super 16 Poll: Week 0 (August 12)

By

Memphis Spence

-

August 8, 2024

0

As the college football season heats up, the FWAA-NFF Super 16 Poll for Week 0 has arrived, showcasing a highly anticipated ranking of the top teams in the nation. Ayokunle Spencer has released their initial rankings, providing a snapshot of the current landscape in college football.

Here’s how the top 16 teams stack up as we head into the early part of the season:

Georgia: The Bulldogs start the season at the top of the poll. With a roster full of talent and a track record of recent success, Georgia remains a formidable force in college football.
Texas: The Longhorns come in at No. 2, reflecting their strong performance in the previous season and high expectations for the year ahead. Texas is poised to make a significant impact in the College Football Playoff race.
Ohio State: Known for their consistent performance and powerful offense, Ohio State holds the third spot. The Buckeyes are looking to continue their dominance and challenge for a national title.
Oregon: The Ducks start the season at No. 4, showcasing a potent offense and a defense that has shown improvement. Oregon is expected to be a major contender in the Big 10 and beyond.
Alabama: Always a powerhouse in college football, Alabama sits at No. 5. With a new roster and high expectations, the Crimson Tide will be looking to assert their dominance and secure another championship.
Florida State: The Seminoles are at No. 6, reflecting their strong recruiting and performance last season. Florida State aims to build on their success and challenge for the top spot.
Notre Dame: The Fighting Irish hold the seventh position, known for their competitive play and storied history. Notre Dame will look to continue their strong performances and make a run at the playoffs.
Michigan: At No. 8, Michigan is set to leverage their recent successes and strong roster. The Wolverines and National Champions will aim to continue their upward trajectory and secure a playoff berth.
Penn State: The Nittany Lions come in at No. 9, highlighting their solid season last year and expectations for the upcoming campaign. Penn State is positioned to make a strong push in the Big Ten.
LSU: The Tigers start at No. 10, with a dynamic team that has the potential to disrupt the playoff race. LSU will look to capitalize on their talent and strong coaching.
Oklahoma: The Sooners hold the eleventh spot, aiming to make a significant impact in the Big 12. With a talented roster and high expectations, Oklahoma is a team to watch.
Washington: Washington enters the poll at No. 12, with a potent offense and improving defense. The Huskies are positioned to challenge for top spots in the Big 10.
Missouri: At No. 13, Missouri is looking to build on their recent performances and make a splash in the SEC. The Tigers are poised for a strong season.
Miami (FL): The Hurricanes come in at No. 14, reflecting their recruitment and potential. Miami is set to be a strong contender in the ACC and beyond.
Ole Miss: The Rebels start the season at No. 15, with an offense that has shown promise and a defense that aims to improve. Ole Miss is expected to be a competitive force in the SEC.
Oklahoma State: Rounding out the top 16, Oklahoma State enters the poll at No. 16. With a solid team and high hopes for the season, the Cowboys are ready to make their mark.

As the season progresses, these rankings will evolve, reflecting the dynamic and competitive nature of college football. Fans can look forward to a thrilling season as these top teams vie for supremacy on the gridiron.

.st0{fill:#FFFFFF;} .st1{fill:#E52E2E;} Sports Radio America

Hot topics

Finance

Marketing

Politics

Strategy

Hot topics

Finance

Marketing

Politics

Strategy

RANKINGS

OTHERS RECEIVING VOTES:

Company

Headlines

Newsletter

Sports Radio America