| Jul 24, 2024 |
| NFL and Hispanic Heritage Foundation Partner with Procter & Gamble to Grow ‘NFL Latino Youth Honors’ for Student-Athletes |
| League Initiative Helps Recognize Trailblazing Latino Youth Football Players Across NFL Club Markets
NEW YORK — July 24, 2024 — The National Football League and the Hispanic Heritage Foundation (HHF) along with Procter & Gamble are proud to announce the second annual ‘NFL Latino Youth Honors’ recognizing outstanding high school tackle and flag football athletes from around the country for their academic and athletic excellence. Procter & Gamble will serve as presenting sponsor of the Latino Youth Honors. The NFL and the HHF have highlighted impactful Latinos for many years, but this program is fully focused on honoring outstanding Latino youth football players. This initiative celebrates high school seniors across NFL club markets who excel in the classroom and on the football field. Thanks to Procter & Gamble’s commitment to the program, eight high school seniors will each receive a grant award that can be used for college, including $25,000 grants for both the male and female national winners and $5,000 grants for each of the six other finalists. “The NFL and Hispanic Heritage Foundation have a rich history of celebrating excellence within Latino communities and the ‘NFL Latino Youth Honors’ program is the perfect way to commemorate Latino students and their inspiring stories, as well as motivate future fans and athletes of this great sport,” said Marissa Solis, NFL senior vice president of global brand & consumer marketing. “The program was a huge success in its inaugural season a year ago and with Procter & Gamble’s participation, we will elevate the ‘NFL Latino Youth Honors’ to new heights.” All 32 NFL teams are invited to select a male and female high school senior football player to represent their team and submit these exemplary student-athletes to be considered for this year’s program. The selection criteria for the “NFL Latino Youth Honors” program includes:
This selection process will bring forth 64 remarkable student-athletes who will be nominated for the 2024 NFL Latino Youth Honors. Once the NFL and HHF receive all nominations, a panel will convene to choose eight outstanding finalists — each representing one of the NFL’s eight divisions. “Procter & Gamble has a long history of collaborating with the NFL to create programs that enhance our ability to reach and serve more consumers and enrich communities,” said Janet Fletcher, senior director of sports marketing at P&G. “We are proud to be this year’s presenting sponsor of the Latino Youth Awards and, together with the NFL and HHF, celebrate the outstanding achievements of Latino youth football players in the classroom, on the field of play, and in their communities.” The eight finalists will each receive a grant award that can be used for college and are set to participate in a variety of special events taking place in New Orleans during Super Bowl LIX Week. Activities will be designed to provide mentorship, guidance and resources to pursue careers in professional sports and all eight finalists will attend the Super Bowl. During that week, a male and female national winner will be announced at NFL Honors, with the recipients receiving an invitation to HHF’s National Youth Awards ceremony later in 2025. “Our partnership with the NFL has always focused on highlighting impactful Latinos and the ‘NFL Latino Youth Honors’ program does exactly that, celebrating the many talents and achievements of young Latinos who are outstanding student-athletes on the field and in the classroom, as well as leaders in their community,” said Jose Antonio Tijerino, President and CEO of HHF. “We look forward to another year of honoring these inspiring Latinos from the league’s 32 club markets while motivating the next generation of Latino talent to aspire for a brighter future.” ### About Procter & Gamble About the Hispanic Heritage Foundation (HHF) Media Contacts |
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NFL and Hispanic Heritage Foundation Partner with Procter & Gamble to Grow ‘NFL Latino Youth Honors’ for Student-Athletes
NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE ANNOUNCES NEW ERA CAP AS OFFICIAL OUTFITTER OF NFL SCOUTING COMBINE
| Jul 24, 2024 |
| NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE ANNOUNCES NEW ERA CAP AS OFFICIAL OUTFITTER OF NFL SCOUTING COMBINE |
| NFL’s expanded partnership with New Era Cap will provide all performance apparel and headwear used by NFL Combine participants and bring new apparel line to athletes and fans
New York & Buffalo – July 24, 2024 – The National Football League and New Era Cap, LLC, the international sports and lifestyle brand, today announced a multiyear agreement making New Era the Official Outfitter of the NFL Scouting Combine beginning in 2025. New Era will provide all performance apparel and headwear used by NFL Combine participants including outerwear, baselayer, compression wear, fleece, pants, shorts, caps, knits, headbands, socks and more. The agreement expands the NFL’s partnership with New Era, which has been the league’s official on-field cap provider since 2012. In addition to designing and producing the NFL’s high-profile Sidelines Collection, New Era also creates unique cap collections for several league initiatives and moments including Crucial Catch, Salute to Service, Inspire Change, NFL Draft and Super Bowl Championship celebrations. “New Era was born in Buffalo – a football town through and through. This game is proudly part of our hometown’s identity, and we couldn’t be more excited to deepen our relationship with the NFL,” said Chris Koch, 4th generation CEO of New Era. “For more than a decade, New Era Cap has been at the center of some of the biggest moments in NFL athletes’ careers – from the caps they wear when their name is called on Draft Day to the ones that top off a Super Bowl Championship. We’re excited to now have the opportunity to outfit the NFL Combine and play a part in another key milestone during athletes’ NFL journeys.” As part of the agreement, New Era will hold retail rights to a variety of NFL Scouting Combine products. Next year, fans will be able to shop the look the athletes will wear along with NFL Combine collections in team colors and designs including t-shirts, hoodies, shorts and polo shirts. The 2025 NFL Scouting Combine, which will be held Feb. 24 through March 3, brings together more than 300 of the best college football players who are invited to participate in four days of training at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana, for evaluation by all 32 NFL teams in advance of the NFL Draft. “New Era Cap has been a key longtime partner of the NFL, and we are excited to expand the partnership by designating them as our official NFL Scouting Combine outfitter,” said Joe Ruggiero, senior vice president of consumer products at the NFL. “The Combine marks a transformative moment in a prospect’s football career. New Era will now be integral to that experience, offering high-performance apparel, helping to enable prospects to perform at their full potential.” Official Combine products will be available to fans beginning in April 2025 with team-specific offerings on sale in June 2025, just in time for training camps. Fans can follow New Era social media channels for the latest updates and will be able to shop the collection at neweracap.com. About New Era Cap Since 1920, New Era has been hand-crafting the finest headwear in the world. Today, with an expansive portfolio of global licenses, the addition of apparel and accessories lines, and 1,000+ worldwide retail store network, the brand is a market leader rooted in sports and an influencer of street and lifestyle culture around the world. The Company is headquartered in Buffalo, N.Y., and its products are sold in 110+ countries. For more information on New Era’s global offices and partnerships, visit www.neweracap.com and social channels @neweracap. Media Contacts: John Mackowiak, jmackowiak@ |
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Elite 10: Ranking the Best Quarterbacks in the NFL
In the fast-paced world of NFL quarterbacks, where every throw counts and every decision can sway the outcome of a game, here’s a detailed ranking of some of the top quarterbacks in the league based on their recent performances and impact:
- Patrick Mahomes: Known for his incredible arm strength and play making abilities, Mahomes remains a top-tier quarterback in the league. His ability to improvise under pressure and deliver accurate throws downfield has kept the Chiefs competitive in every game. Mahomes is clearly the best QB in the league.
Photo Cred: SI - Joe Burrow: The Bengals star, Burrow’s poise under pressure and accuracy have quickly made him a fan favorite. His ability to lead the Bengals to key victories has solidified his position as one of the promising young quarterbacks in the NFL.
- Lamar Jackson: A dynamic dual-threat quarterback, Jackson’s speed and agility make him a nightmare for opposing defenses. His ability to extend plays with his legs while also making accurate throws has elevated the Ravens’ offense to new heights.
- Josh Allen: Known for his grit and determination, Allen’s leadership and ability to extend plays keep him in the conversation. His athleticism and resilience make him a formidable opponent on the field. Photo Cred: Boston.com
- Matthew Stafford: Stafford’s move to the Rams has revitalized his career, showcasing his deep ball accuracy and experience. His partnership with a strong receiving corps has made the Rams a formidable offensive force in the league.
- Aaron Rodgers: Despite his age, Rodgers continues to deliver with precision passes and veteran leadership for the Packers. His ability to read defenses and make quick decisions remains unparalleled, making him a constant threat in any game situation.
- Jared Goff: Goff’s transition to the Lions hasn’t dulled his ability to move the ball effectively and lead his team. His experience and field vision continue to be assets for the Lions as they rebuild their roster.
- C.J. Stroud: As a newcomer, Stroud has shown potential with the Buckeyes, displaying strong arm talent and field vision. His ability to lead Ohio State’s offense with poise and accuracy has garnered attention in both college and potentially in the NFL. Photo Cred: The Hills
- Dak Prescott: Coming off a strong season with the Cowboys, Prescott combines athleticism with clutch performances. His leadership on and off the field has been instrumental in the Cowboys’ resurgence as playoff contenders.
- Tua Tagovailoa: Tagovailoa has shown promise with the Dolphins, demonstrating strong decision-making and accuracy. His ability to manage games effectively and make timely throws has been crucial for the Dolphins offensive strategy.
Photo Cred: SI
Photo Cred: Boston.com
Photo Cred: The HillsThese rankings are based on recent performances, overall impact on their teams, and their ability to influence games with their skills. As the NFL season progresses, these rankings may shift based on player performance and team dynamics. Each quarterback brings a unique set of skills and strengths to their respective teams, making the competition among them both fierce and thrilling for fans.
2024 NFL Record and Fact Book Now Available
| Jul 23, 2024 |
| 2024 NFL Record and Fact Book Now Available |
| The 2024 NFL Record & Fact Book is now posted and available for download on nflcommunications.com or by clicking here.*
The downloadable version of this publication is in a bookmarked format that corresponds with the table of contents. The online version of the Record & Fact Book also includes a supplemental section with expanded information that is not available in the printed guide. The supplemental section in the digital-only version includes:
*Note: To access the Record & Fact Book, users must first sign in to nflcommunications.com. Official NFL publications are located under the publications & logos menu. |
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Inside the NBA May Still Have Life
TNT has made a bold move in response to the NBA’s $1.8 billion annual contract deal with Amazon. They have submitted an offer that matches Amazon’s package. This offer would continue the production of “Inside the NBA.” It’s the premier studio show for NBA coverage. The NBA has yet to respond, leaving the future of their longstanding partnership in question.
Photo Cred: Warner Bros
The NBA’s preference for honoring the Amazon deal underscores the growing influence of streaming over traditional cable television. If the NBA upholds the Amazon contract, it signals the end of an era for TNT’s NBA coverage “Inside the NBA” featuring Shaquille O’Neal, Ernie Johnson, Kenny Smith, and Charles Barkley would be in their last year this upcoming season. This prospect has sparked concern among fans, who have expressed outrage over the potential departure of the iconic show from TNT.
In a statement, TNT affirmed its commitment to continue producing Inside the NBA. The statement did not directly mention Amazon. It conveyed TNT’s readiness to extend their 40-year partnership with the NBA into the future.
“We have reviewed the offers and matched one of them,” TNT’s statement declared. “This will allow fans to keep enjoying our unparalleled coverage, including the best live game productions in the industry and our iconic studio shows and talent, while building on our proven 40-year commitment for many more years.
Photo Cred: Front Office Sports
“Our matching paperwork was submitted to the league today,” the statement continued. “We look forward to the NBA executing our new contract.”
The NBA faces a potential showdown among TNT and Amazon. With fan sentiment and viewership preferences likely to influence the league’s ultimate decision on its broadcasting future.
Summer Shake-Ups: NBA’s Latest Headlines and Moves
Notable NBA moves include Klay Thompson joining the Dallas Mavericks after his storied tenure with the Golden State Warriors. Chris Paul’s transition to the San Antonio Spurs brings veteran leadership. Bronny James has shown flashes of skill with the Los Angeles Lakers during Summer League play. Additionally, the Clippers’ trade of Russell Westbrook to the Utah Jazz has reshaped expectations heading into the new season. Westbrook will have a contract buyout to sign with the Nuggets. It highlights a summer filled with pivotal decisions and strategic maneuvers across the league.
A New Chapter Begins as Klay Thompson Joins Dallas Mavericks
Photo Cred: Yahoo Sports
Klay Thompson, a pivotal figure in the Golden State Warriors’ illustrious championship era, has decided to part ways with the team after 13 seasons. He embarks on a new journey with the Dallas Mavericks. Thompson signed a three-year, $50 million contract facilitated by a multi-team sign-and-trade. The deal involves Mavericks’ guard/forward Josh Green and future draft picks. The decision was driven by the Mavericks’ competitive drive, recent playoff success, financial considerations, and personal preferences.
Thompson leaves behind a rich legacy with the Warriors. He formed a dominant trio alongside Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. They achieved multiple championships, etching their names into NBA history with record-breaking performances.
Chris Paul Joins San Antonio Spurs
Photo Cred: BR
NBA veteran Chris Paul has announced his move to the San Antonio Spurs, marking a significant chapter in his illustrious career. The deal, valued at $11 million for one year, follows Paul’s season with the Golden State Warriors, where he played 58 games, starting 18, and maintained impressive averages of 9.2 points, 6.8 assists, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.20 steals per game in just over 26 minutes of play. Paul’s addition brings invaluable experience and playmaking expertise to the Spurs’ roster, enhancing their prospects for the upcoming season.
Bronny James Plays in Summer League
Photo Cred: AP News
Bronny James, the promising rookie for the Lakers and son of NBA legend LeBron James, showcased his burgeoning talent with a standout performance in Summer League, scoring 13 points in a crucial game against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Despite initial challenges earlier in the summer, James has steadily found his rhythm, highlighted by a notable 12-point outing against the Atlanta Hawks. In his latest match, James shot an efficient 5 for 10 from the field and made significant contributions with five rebounds, three assists, and two blocked shots. His performances underscore his potential to make a substantial impact as he adapts to the demands of professional basketball.
Clippers Trade Russell Westbrook to Jazz in Strategic Move, Westbrook Will Sign with Nuggets
Photo Cred: FB
In a surprising development, the Clippers have executed a strategic sign-and-trade, sending Russell Westbrook to the Utah Jazz in exchange for Kris Dunn. The deal also includes additional assets heading to Utah: a swap of 2nd-round picks in 2030. Also the draft rights to Balsa Koprivica and cash considerations. This trade represents a significant roster adjustment for both teams, with the Clippers aiming to strengthen their lineup while the Jazz secure a high-profile addition in Westbrook, reshaping their dynamics for the upcoming season. Russell Westbrook will have a buyout to sign with the Nuggets.
Forecasting the AFC North: Who Will Rise to the Top?
Heading into the 2024 season, the AFC North promises to be a battleground of titans, each team poised to make significant strides towards hoisting the Lombardi Trophy. Renowned for its fierce competition and storied rivalries, this division stands on the brink of a historic season where all four teams could potentially clinch playoff berths—an unprecedented achievement in recent NFL history.
Baltimore Ravens: MVP Lamar Jackson Leads the Charge
Photo Cred: Matt York/AP
The Baltimore Ravens enter the season with Lamar Jackson at the helm, continuing to redefine quarterback play with his unmatched dual-threat ability. Jackson’s 2023 campaign was a showcase of his skills, amassing over 3,600 passing yards and 800 rushing yards. While the Ravens narrowly missed a Super Bowl appearance, Jackson’s leadership secured them a division title and the coveted #1 seed. For an offense that already excelled in executing read option plays, they have a chance to be a lot better in 2024.
Lamar’s rushing ability has spearheaded Ravens ground game for years, and it’s about to get even better. Over the offseason, Baltimore signed former Tennessee Titan, running back Derrick Henry to lead the running back room. Opposing linebackers will now have to deal with the power of Henry and the quickness of Lamar Jackson on the field at the same time.Adding Derrick Henry to their roster from the Titans strengthens an already formidable ground game, complementing Jackson’s electrifying speed and impeccable decision-making in the read-option offense. Despite changes in defensive personnel and coaching with Mike Macdonald’s departure, Baltimore remains poised to dominate by dictating game tempo through their dynamic offensive strategies.
Cincinnati Bengals: Joe Burrow Returns to Full Strength
Photo Cred: AP News
After battling injuries in 2023, Joe Burrow returns to lead the Cincinnati Bengals with renewed vigor. With previous AFC Championship and Super Bowl appearances, Burrow’s experience and leadership are pivotal as the Bengals seek to reclaim the division crown. Supported by an emerging roster and bolstered by key offseason acquisitions, Burrow aims to guide the Bengals back into contention with an explosive offense and a revitalized defensive strategy.
With a full offseason of rest, Bengals fans hope a healthy Burrow will return the team back to where they left off in 2022.The last two seasons that Burrow was healthy, the Bengals had two AFC Championship game appearances and one Super Bowl appearance. If Burrow can put up his usual numbers and stay healthy throughout the season, then the Bengals can go from worst to first in the AFC North.
Cleveland Browns: Defensive Dominance and Offensive Potential
Photo Cred: USA Today
The Cleveland Browns emerge into the 2024 season with a reputation for defensive prowess, highlighted by Myles Garrett’s dominant performance leading the league’s top-ranked defense in various metrics such as total defense, passing defense, and third-down efficiency. The Browns ferocious front seven is led by the 2023 defensive player of the year, Myles Garrett. Last year he recorded 14 sacks and four forced fumbles. Despite quarterback challenges in the previous season, Coach Kevin Stefanski guided the Browns to an 11-6 record and a wildcard berth, underscoring their resilience.
For the Browns to advance further in 2024, their success hinges on rejuvenating their offense to complement the stellar defense that retains key playmakers. The resurgence of stars like Deshaun Watson and Nick Chubb will be critical in realizing Cleveland’s ambitions for postseason success. With one of the best defenses in the league, the viability of
quarterback Deshaun Watson and running back Nick Chubb, both injured in 2023, will
determine how far the Browns will go in the AFC.
Pittsburgh Steelers: A Two-Pronged Quarterback Strategy
Photo Cred: Joe Sargent/Getty Images
In response to quarterback challenges last season, the Pittsburgh Steelers made bold moves to strengthen their roster. Following Kenny Pickett’s departure, the Steelers secured Russell Wilson, a seasoned Super Bowl champion known for his clutch performances, and Justin Fields, a promising young quarterback on a budget-friendly contract. Under the guidance of the experienced Mike Tomlin, the Steelers aim to return to AFC contention with their revamped quarterback lineup.
Blending veteran experience with emerging talent, Pittsburgh is poised to challenge their division rivals and stake their claim in the competitive AFC landscape. The insanity of both these signings is that the Steelers are paying under five million dollars this year for both quarterbacks combined. While Russell Wilson will make just under $40 million this year, the Steelers are only paying him $1.2 million because the Denver Broncos must cover the rest, which totals to $38 million. As for Fields, he is still on his rookie contract, and Pittsburgh only must pay him $3.2 million.
As each AFC North contender embarks on the 2024 season with distinct narratives and strategic enhancements, the stage is set for a fierce divisional showdown. With teams bolstering their rosters, refining their strategies, and leveraging key acquisitions, the battle for the division crown and beyond promises to be one of the most thrilling in recent memory. Football fans can expect nothing short of electrifying performances, dramatic comebacks, and the relentless pursuit of football’s ultimate prize—the Lombardi Trophy.
NFL Network’s ‘Training Camp Back Together Weekend Presented by YouTube TV’ and ‘Inside Training Camp’ Coverage
| Comprehensive Coverage of “Training Camp: Back Together Weekend” on Saturday, July 27 and Sunday, July 28 “Inside Training Camp” Coverage Begins Monday, July 29 INGLEWOOD, Calif. — July 22, 2024 — NFL Network provides extensive coverage of “Training Camp: Back Together Weekend Presented by YouTube TV” Saturday, July 27 and Sunday, July 28, and all 32 NFL training camps with daily editions of “Inside Training Camp” Monday, July 29 through Wednesday, Aug. 7. For the fourth consecutive year, all 32 NFL teams will kick off Training Camp by holding practices with club-led fan events. This year’s edition of “Training Camp: Back Together Weekend” will feature celebrations that will once again span two days – Saturday, July 27 and Sunday, July 28 – with complete coverage across NFL Network and NFL+, as well as ABC and ESPN. Beginning at 10 a.m. ET on Saturday, July 27 and continuing at 3 p.m. ET on Sunday, July 28, NFL Network provides 16 hours of live “Training Camp: Back Together Weekend” coverage over the two days as teams across the league hit the field. Saturday’s coverage features Rhett Lewis and Gerald McCoy live with the Kansas City Chiefs; Rich Eisen and Jane Slater live with the Dallas Cowboys; and Mike Yam and Maurice Jones-Drew live with the Los Angeles Rams, along with on-location reports from camps across the league. On Sunday, Jones-Drew and Chris Rose anchor NFL Network’s “Training Camp: Back Together Weekend” coverage from NFL Network’s studios in Los Angeles. Listed below is a breakdown of NFL Network’s “Training Camp: Back Together Weekend” on-location coverage: “Inside Training Camp” on NFL Network kicks off Monday, July 29 and provides daily coverage through Wednesday, Aug. 7. Coverage starts at noon ET July 29 – Aug. 2 and on Aug. 4, at 3 p.m. ET on Aug. 3, and at 2 p.m. ET Aug. 5-7. As teams report to camp and take the field, NFL Network is there to provide in-depth coverage and access, interviews with players and coaches, analysis from former players, head coaches and front office executives, and live reports from reporters stationed at training camp sites. For NFL Network’s “Inside Training Camp” coverage, hosts MJ Acosta-Ruiz, Patrick Claybon, Rhett Lewis, Chris Rose, Colleen Wolfe and Mike Yam are joined by analysts Brian Baldinger, Bucky Brooks, David Carr, Cynthia Frelund, Pep Hamilton, Daniel Jeremiah, Gerald McCoy, Scott Pioli, Michael Robinson and Marc Ross to provide analysis and interviews. Also lending their voices throughout are NFL Media Insiders Mike Garafolo, Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport, senior national columnist Judy Battista, chief national reporter Steve Wyche, and NFL Network reporters Taylor Bisciotti, Jeffri Chadiha, Bridget Condon, Stacey Dales, Omar Ruiz, Jane Slater, Sara Walsh and Cameron Wolfe providing the latest news reports from training camps around the league. Editions of “The Insiders” air Wednesday, July 31 and Friday, Aug. 2 at 7 p.m. ET, and Monday, Aug. 5 through Wednesday, Aug. 7 at 6 p.m. ET on NFL Network, with Battista, Garafolo, Pelissero, Rapoport and a rotating list of NFL Network reporters providing the latest news from around the league. Digitally, NFL.com offers extensive coverage throughout training camps, highlighted by: · NFL.com’s “Around the NFL” writers track the latest news out of camps each day, from roster changes and position battle updates to the latest depth chart buzz. Throughout training camp, new episodes of the “NFL Daily” podcast with Gregg Rosenthal and “Move the Sticks” podcast with Daniel Jeremiah and Bucky Brooks will provide additional analysis, available wherever you listen to podcasts. As previously announced, NFL Network’s Emmy Award-winning show “Good Morning Football” returns on Monday, July 29 at 8 a.m. ET with Jamie Erdahl, Peter Schrager, Kyle Brandt, Akbar Gbajabiamila and Sherree Burruss. Additionally, a new two-hour series titled “GMFB: Overtime” streams for free on The Roku Channel Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. – noon ET starting Monday, July 29. |
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Staten Island Giants win Girls 18U Title at NFL Flag Championships
| Jul 21, 2024 |
| Staten Island Giants win Girls 18U Title at NFL Flag Championships |
| CANTON — July 21, 2024 — In a game where every possession would matter, Staten Island Giants coach Michael Colt knew he couldn’t afford to waste any opportunities.
So when his team went on offense with a minute and a half left before intermission, he was looking for momentum. Staten Island found it, and the pivotal series propelled the Giants to a 28-7 victory over the APEX Predators Chargers in the Girls 18U title game at the NFL Flag Championships on Sunday in Canton, Ohio. “I wanted to steal a possession at the end of the half, even if we had to use all three timeouts,” Colt said. “I just wanted to steal that possession because I knew that they were coming out with the ball (for the second half), and I didn’t want to have that momentum switch. “We had a big play, got a few yards down the field, and I said, ‘Hey, we’re gonna go all in on this drive.’ And you know, that’s what we did.” The Giants completed four consecutive passes to move the ball to the Chargers’ 6 with time for one more play before halftime. A defensive holding call in the end zone then gave Staten Island an untimed down from the 1. Valentina Fanetti hit Olivia Rijo with a quick dart for a 14-7 lead, and the Giants never looked back. Fanetti, who had misfired on her first three pass attempts, reeled off 14 consecutive completions with four touchdowns (plus four conversions) in earning game Most Valuable Player honors. “I will owe it to the girls,” she said afterward. “They told me what they saw out there; I told them what I saw out there. We gave it our all. “We all agreed to just run our routes 100 percent no matter what. Decoy, getting the ball, extra second look, third look. We all ran our routes hard. and that’s what a championship team does.” After her rough start, which included a sack on the first play from scrimmage, Fanetti got locked in and later found Jade Mazziotta from 15 yards out for the Giants’ first score, tying the game at 7-7. Allison Gandlin, who at NFL Honors early this year was named NFL Flag Player of the Year, caught two touchdown passes in the second half – from 8 and 5 yards, the latter coming one play after APEX Predators turned the ball over on downs. The Chargers looked sharp early, moving rapidly with their first possession. Brooklyn Hill snagged a perfectly placed throw from Maci Joncich and snuck her foot into the back corner of the end zone to give APEX a 7-0 lead. Joncich finished with only 58 yards passing, however, as the Giants constantly pressured her and covered well. Jaylani Palmer made four catches for 32 yards. Rijo and Gandlin combined for 11 receptions for 94 yards for the Giants. Fanetti finished 14-of-17 for 116 yards and no turnovers. She said her quiet postgame exterior belied her true feelings. “I’m definitely feeling emotional. You can’t see it now, but I’ll probably cry about this later,” she said. “These girls are really family. … We’re together because we’re the best 10 as a family. We really are there for each other, and I get teary when I say this, but I love every single one of these girls, always. And I’ll always have their backs.” The win capped a long journey for the Giants. “So this group of young women, we started this program in 2019,” Colt said. “Some of these girls were part of our first team that we ever decided to travel with. In 2021, during COVID, we lost our co-founder, Coach James. Later that year, we came back at NFL Flag Nationals and won our first national championship in the 14U girls division. … To come back and win it where we first won our first summer nationals, to come back and finish the girl’s story here, is just an amazing experience.” Stephanie Kwok, an NFL vice president in charge of Flag Football, deemed the weekend in Canton a success. “It was everything we hoped for and more,” she said of the 280-team tournament. “Being able to showcase all these teams, all of these boys, all of these girls. To make sure that they had a weekend where they were the focus, and they were spotlighted. “And then having that broadcast, I think that the broadcast was amazing. ESPN did such a good job showcasing all of the teams. And just walking around the grounds, there was so much energy from all of the parents, coaches and players,” she continued. “It was just a great experience here at the Hall of Fame.” Semifinals APEX Predators Chargers 28, Bad Rabbits Raiders 7 In their semifinal, Joncich and Palmer connected on four scoring plays, including a length-of-the-field 45-yarder, as APEX beat the Bad Rabbits (Raiders), 28-7. APEX scored first on a safety following a Bad Rabbits fumble in the end zone. On the ensuing possession, Joncich found Palmer, who made a nifty toe-tap in the back corner of the end zone, for a 13-yard scoring play. The Bad Rabbits scored on the final play of the first half – Camila Urzua passing 4 yards to Sofia Ayala – and converted to make it 9-7. The pair had connected on a 14-yard pass to set up the score. That momentum carried over into the second half, with the Bad Rabbits taking the initial possession into scoring range, but a Sinai Carter interception for APEX stopped the drive. Two plays later, Palmer made an over-the-shoulder catch and took the Joncich pass 45 yards. Another interception, by Hill, set up a short field moments later. Joncich and Palmer connected from the 2 to push the lead to 22-7. In final minute, the tandem closed the scoring with a 3-yard TD play. Joncich completed 11 of her 17 passes for 143 yards. Palmer had six receptions for 94 yards. For the Bad Rabbits, Urzua completed 11 of 20 passes for 104 yards. Ayala had six receptions for 53 yards. Staten Island Giants 7, Texas Fury Falcons 0 Fanetti found Janasia Wilson on a third-and-goal pass from the 7 for the game’s only score as the Giants won a defensive battle. They winning play came with 2:06 left. The Fury responded by driving to the 11 in the waning seconds, but an incompletion at the 2 ended the game. Staten Island put together the only serious threat of the first half, but a pass break-up in the end zone by the Fury’s Hannah Jayes ended the drive. The Giants also drove deep on their first possession of the second half, but a sack from Caroline Jayes of the Fury forced a turnover on downs. Fanetti completed 16 passes for 142 yards. Allison Gandlin made seven catches for 67 yards. Rusher KyLee Caetano contributed a sack and provided constant pressure on the Fury’s standout quarterback, Ava Wallace, who finished the game with 114 yards passing on 16 completions in 25 attempts. Mary Nell Thompson caught eight passes for a team-high 62 yards. Media Contacts: Avis Roper, Avis.Roper@nfl.com |
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What Direction Are The Atlanta Hawks Headed In?
After a disappointing exit in the play-in tournament, Atlanta Hawks fans are left questioning the team’s long-term trajectory. The franchise made significant moves in the offseason. They secured the first overall pick in the lottery and selected Zacharie Risacher, a highly-touted prospect from France. However, they also made the tough decision to trade veteran guard Dejounte Murray to the New Orleans Pelicans. It signaled a potential shift in strategy.
Despite these moves suggesting a rebuild, the presence of three-time All-Star Trae Young on the roster adds complexity. Young, widely regarded as a generational talent, is now entering his prime. He has led the Hawks to one deep playoff run and a Conference Finial. This raises the crucial question: what is Atlanta’s front office planning behind closed doors? With Young anchoring the team alongside experienced veterans like Bogdan Bogdanović and Clint Capela, the front office aims to expedite the rebuilding process while focusing on enhancing length and defensive prowess.
Photo Cred: USA Today
Their acquisitions of Larry Nance Jr. and Dyson Daniels from New Orleans underscore this strategic emphasis. Risacher’s selection aligns with these priorities, given his impressive physical attributes and potential to bolster the team’s defensive capabilities. The emergence of star forward Jalen Johnson has been instrumental in shaping Atlanta’s future outlook. At just 22 years old, Johnson took a significant leap in his third season. He averaged 16.0 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 3.6 assists while showcasing efficiency both inside and outside the arc.
Under the guidance of head coach Quin Snyder, Johnson is poised to assume a larger role next season, with expectations of evolving into another cornerstone player for the Hawks. Snyder’s coaching philosophy revolves around an effective, complementary style of basketball that maximizes Young’s playmaking talents. The team will thrive on a drive-and-kick strategy, leveraging the athleticism of players like Johnson and Nance Jr. to capitalize on scoring opportunities near the rim.
Photo Cred: KSL Sports
This approach fosters an environment where each player can excel in their designated roles. They have flexibility for adjustments as the season progresses. State Farm Arena promises to be a stage where NBA enthusiasts can witness a team brimming with offensive firepower and defensive tenacity. Looking ahead, Atlanta finds itself in a win-win scenario for the upcoming season.
With Young’s leadership and the potential contributions of their revamped roster, the Hawks are positioned to compete for a playoff spot in the wide-open Eastern Conference. Alternatively, missing out on the play-in tournament would place them in the lottery, presenting an opportunity to further fortify their roster and develop the next NBA superstar. This pivotal juncture underscores the strategic foresight of Atlanta’s front office as they navigate the competitive landscape of professional basketball.
