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coolrahulsarin · 2 years ago

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Quarterbacks play well in preseason loss to Broncos – NBC Sports Bay Area & California

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Quarterbacks play well in preseason loss to Broncos – NBC Sports Bay Area & California

SANTA CLARA — The 49ers displayed a portion of their regular-season offense for 5 minutes, 45 seconds Saturday night.

While running back Christian McCaffrey, tight end George Kittle and left tackle Trent Williams were not on the field when the 49ers lined up against the Denver Broncos in a preseason game at Levi’s Stadium, starting quarterback Brock Purdy and his three best wide receivers were together again. for an opening drive that covered 68 yards in nine plays.

Trey Lance led the 49ers on three late scoring drives, and rookie kicker Jake Moody barely got a 32-yard kick inside the right post as time expired for a 21-20 win over the Broncos.

Purdy showed he’s ready for the 49ers’ regular season opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday, September 10, as he completed 4 of 5 passing attempts for 65 yards. Deebo Samuel caught two passes for 39 yards, while Brandon Aiyuk had a reception for 15 yards and Jauan Jennings added an 11-yard catch.

After Purdy’s one-series stint, the focus turned to the true quarterback competition: that of the backup job.

Here are three takeaways from the second of the 49ers’ three preseason games:

Darnold vs. Lance for No. 2

Quarterback Sam Darnold had a solid outing after entering in the first quarter, and Trey Lance also had his moments.

Darnold’s final drive ended with a touchdown, while Lance was intercepted for his first drive. After that, Lance was ready to lead the 49ers on three straight game-winning scoring drives.

Lance led a seven-play, 75-yard drive that he capped with a 22-yard touchdown pass to rookie tight end Cameron Latu. The 49ers’ two-point conversion attempt to tie the game was delayed until the 17-yard line when the non-uniform starters ran onto the field to celebrate.

Lance then led the 64-yard drive that ended with Moody’s game-winning field goal.

Lance completed 12 of 18 pass attempts for 173 yards with one touchdown and one interception.

Darnold was involved in 27 snaps and completed 11 of 14 passes for 109 yards, including an 11-yard touchdown run to fullback Jack Colletto on his final play of the game. The veteran quarterback threw an interception, but he won’t be demoted for it. His pass intended for Ronnie Bell caught the rookie in the hands and was caught on the rebound by Essang Bassey.

Darnold’s best throw of the night was a dart past Jennings under pressure for 21 yards. However, the play was annulled by Jon Feliciano’s holding penalty.

Darnold was sacked twice, but also gained 18 yards in two scrambles.

Lance got off to a rough start when he tried to concede a short pass to running back Jeremy McNichols. However, defensive end Matt Henningsen got it, and defensive lineman Elijah Garcia made the sprawling interception.

Ray-Ray’s replacement in the return game

Bell, the rookie receiver, had an up-and-down game. He was up as a comeback man and had another down moment as a catcher. But he also finished strong on offense.

It was much worse for fellow rookie D’Shawn Jamison, whose missed punt inside the 10-yard line converted into a quick seven Broncos points.

Meanwhile, Bell handled the punts flawlessly. He made a punt in the third quarter at the 7-yard line and pushed through the crowd for a 28-yard return to the 49ers 35-yard line.

But for the second straight game, Bell was unable to catch a well-thrown pass and the ball drifted to the defense for an interception. Bell also fumbled at the end of an eight-yard reception. His teammate Troy Fumagalli recovered the fumble.

Bell finished with seven receptions for 114 yards, including a 43-yard catch and run to set up the winning field goal.

Bell, a seventh-round draft pick out of Michigan, is fighting for one of five or six receiving spots. He appears to be in good shape to make the team and perhaps handle comeback duties to open the season.

Veteran Ray-Ray McCloud remains questionable through the early part of the regular season with a broken wrist. McCloud underwent surgery last Friday.

Sophomore wide receiver Danny Gray had a 23-yard kickoff return to open the game. However, he was ruled out of Saturday’s game with a shoulder injury after missing the first preseason game with a hip strain.

Considering options in nickel backing

The 49ers are looking at their options at the nickel job after Isaiah Oliver failed to secure the starting job through the first three weeks of practices and one preseason game.

When the 49ers defense took the field against the Broncos starters, Ambry Thomas and Charvarius Ward started at cornerback. When the 49ers turned to their nickel defense, Deommodore Lenoir came on as a nickel backup.

Defensive coordinator Steve Wilks said this week that the team would look for ways to put its top five defensive backs on the field in passing situations, and that could mean having Thomas or Samuel Womack on the field.

Lenoir and Ward are the presumed starting corners and Lenoir has the skill set and system knowledge to move inside and line up against the opposing wide receiver.

After the first series, Womack and Thomas played the cornerback positions with Oliver coming on as nickel back. On Oliver’s first play, he missed Denver tight end Greg Dulcich’s tackle, allowing him to rack up another 10 yards for an 18-yard gain on a 3rd and 8 play.

#Quarterbacks #play #preseason #loss #Broncos #NBC #Sports #Bay #Area #California

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irxnlegacy · 3 years ago

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Comic and MCU Ironheart from Marvel's Iron-Man - penned by Jasmine

RULES. BIO. VERSES || INTEREST CHECKER || OPEN STARTERS || WISHLIST

EST 2016 🛠️ BETA EDITOR 🛠️ LOW ACTIVITY. 🛠️ PROMO

Name: Adrienna Keleece "Riri" Williams

Age: 15-18.

Height: 5"2.

Nationality: Trinidadian American.

Born: Chicago (currently living in New York).

Skills: Engineering, mechanizing, computer coding

Warning: THIS IRON-MAN IS CANONICALLY A BLACK GIRL. She did not replace Tony Stark and they co-exist in the comics with Pepper, Rhodey, and the other Iron-Men. Do not follow me if this upset you. Any hate towards my muse or myself will be removed and the harassers will be blocked.

I only accept raceswapped muses who's stories are not connected to their race. So no white versions of characters of color just as Black Panther, Storm, Ms. Marvel/Kamala Khan, or Spider-Man/Miles Morales.

Multiverse: I have a comic (Earth 616), MCU verse (anti-Endgame), and fantasy verse based on Marvel's Champions: WeirdWorld (with World of Warcraft influence)

Relationships: My main ships are VivHeart, Kon x Riri, and Azari x Riri. My muse is bisexual so all genders are welcome. No adult muses or young versions of Tony, Pepper, or Rhodey.

I also accept other children of Riri; OCs please have an about page.

WISHLIST

Marvel: (comic, Sony, or MCU) Ronnie or Demetrius Williams, Midnighter, Anthony Ramos/The Hood, Natalie, T'Challa, Rhodey, Pepper, Nate Richards/Iron-Lad, Superior!Iron-Man, T'Chaka, Ramonda, Okoye, M'Baku, Killmonger, Jefferson and Rio Morales, Earth-42 Miles (to ship), Yusef or Muneeba Khan, Patvitr Prabhakar, Spider-Byte, Jessica Drew.

DC: (comic, DCAU or DCEU) Clark Kent, Lois Lane, Johnathan and Martha Kent, Jon Kent (pre-age up), Kara Danver/Kent/Zor-El, Lex Luthor, Natasha and John Henry Irons, Cyborg Superman, Eradicator and Krypto the Superdog

⚙️ Mun is a 33-year-old freelance graphic designer with anxiety. So please be patient with me. My other RP blogs are @swordsxandxsakuras @aranaboricua and @seafoamseashells. My Discord is FourEyedFreezy have if you wish to RP privately. ⚙️

#(pinned post)

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lfthinkerwrites · 7 years ago

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A Riddle for a Bat, pt. 5

Title: A Riddle for a Bat

Fandom: Batman

Pairing: Riddlebat

Rating: T

Chapter Summary: Bruce finds out a bit more about Edward Nigma's background before their 'partnership' officially begins.

Previous Chapters: 1/2/3/4

AO3 Link

After making sure Dick was comfortable, Bruce allowed himself to sleep. By early afternoon he was up, showered and sitting at the Batcomputer. According to the news reports, all of the patients at Gotham City General had been evacuated, including Carmine Falcone. He'd have to check in with Gordon tonight to make sure that the elderly mobster had agreed to police protection. For now, Bruce was focused on background research for another person entirely.

He was looking right now at a five-year-old file picture of a man he'd obtained from the GCPD server. The text below the picture read Nashton, Edward. Cybercrime Division. Bruce considered the picture. Nigma hadn't apparently been as ostentatious at GCPD as he was now. He was wearing a blue sweater vest over a plain white dress shirt. His auburn hair hung loose, rather than the slicked back look he seemed to favor in the present. His personality, on the other hand, hadn't seemed to change much. His smirk in the old photograph was just as cocky and self-satisfied as the smirk he'd worn the previous evening. Even then, he seemed to carry himself as a man who knew the answers to all of life's questions and who wasn't shy about letting others know that. Bruce leaned forward in his seat, resting his elbows on the desk and folding his hands in thought. What had happened in the five years between Nigma's departure from GCPD and now to make the man what he was? And why had he left GCPD in the first place?

Bruce was so engrossed in the picture that he almost didn't hear Alfred coming up behind him, carrying a tray with a plate of food and a cup of coffee. "Who is that you're looking at, Master Bruce?"

"I'm surprised you don't recognize him, Alfred," taking the cup when Alfred set the tray down next to him. He took a long sip of coffee before he continued, "He's only been on the news at least once a week for the past six months."

Alfred made a small noise of surprise. "My word. That's Edward Nigma? I hardly recognized him without any hint of green on."

"This is back when he worked for GCPD," Bruce explained. "He was part of the cybercrime division." It occurred to Bruce that every time he pulled information from the GCPD server, he had Nigma to thank for it. He reflexively scowled. "I wanted to find out as much as I can about him before I approach him tonight."

"And what have you found out so far?"

Bruce tapped a few keys. "Nothing much. He has no family listed. The earliest records I can find about him are his college transcripts from Gotham University. And according to his personnel file, he was a model employee. There were no complaints about him from other officers. There's no criminal record for him either."

"Well, I'd imagine not. Even someone as unscrupulous as Loeb was had to have some hiring standards."

Bruce took another sip of coffee. "Nigma was a hacker Alfred. He might have been able to cover his tracks before he came to GCPD." He typed a few commands on the computer. "When I encountered him at the party, I thought I could detect a bit of a New England inflection when he spoke. I'm expanding the search to include any records about him from Massachusetts, Connecticut, Vermont, Maine, New Hampshire and Rhode Island."

"This Nigma character has made quite an impression on you, hasn't he Sir?"

Bruce frowned a bit at the teasing tone in Alfred's voice. "He's been operating an information network under everyone's noses for months, possibly years. I don't like that."

"No of course not. I suppose that was why you were staring so intently at his picture when I came in as well?"

Bruce said nothing but closed the picture of Nigma. He focused instead on a court record that the search had returned. It was a record from Connecticut that was over twenty years old. Bruce rubbed his chin. Unless Nigma had access to one of Ra's Lazarus Pits, this couldn't be about him. He took a look at the article anyway. "Did you find something, sir?" Alfred asked.

"It's a court transcript from Connecticut," Bruce took a closer look. "Regarding the sentence of a William Nashton."

"A relative of Nigma's, perhaps?"

"Most likely," Bruce answered. He read further. "Twenty-five years ago, William Nashton was arrested on charges that he-" Bruce paused slightly as he read the next lines. This was something he hadn't expected.

"He what, Master Bruce?"

Bruce sighed. "That he severely and repeatedly beat his son."

"Oh dear," Alfred said. "Do you think this is Nigma's father?"

Bruce leaned back in his chair. "The son's name isn't mentioned, but the timeline fits. The article says that the son was taken into foster care and never returned to his father's custody. There's no mention of any mother." This would explain why there was no family listed, as well as the lack of any information about Nigma before he was college age. He must have come straight to Gotham after he aged out of the system. Bruce closed the windows and stood up. "I think I've found out all I can about who he was before GCPD. I'm still no closer to finding out why he left, or what his connection to Thorne might be."

"Perhaps given his background, he has an inherent distaste for thugs like Thorne."

Bruce shook his head. "I don't think that's it. He'd be just as hostile towards Falcone and Maroni if that was the case. The way he spoke about Thorne in his office...there's something more personal there." Bruce's first thought was that it was connected to Nigma's departure from GCPD. Gordon had sworn up and down that Nigma wouldn't be on the take. Perhaps Thorne had approached him with a bribe and Nigma had rejected it? Loeb was believed to be in the pockets of one of the crime families. The only reason why it had never been proven was that he'd been murdered while in custody before his corruption trial years ago. If Loeb was in Thorne's pocket, that could explain the argument in his office. Perhaps he'd forced Nigma out...but then again, Gordon had been approached for bribes numerous times and he'd never been forced out. And if Thorne had thought Nigma was too dangerous to be allowed to be not on his payroll, he more than likely would have had him killed, just as he and the other families had killed people who inconvenienced them. Bruce shook his head. The more he found out about the man, the less he understood. "I'll figure it out, Alfred."

"I'm sure you will sir," Alfred said reassuringly. "In the meantime, I've made up the downstairs guest room for Master Dick to stay in while he's recovering. He and I have decided to tell the university and anyone else who may inquire that he was in a car accident to explain his leave of absence."

"Good," Bruce said. "He can help me out by monitoring the chat on the scanners and doing research."

"And I'm sure he'll be delighted to do so," Alfred said in a droll tone. "Also, Ms. Vreeland called. She insisted on taking you out to lunch since you had to leave her party early last night."

"Wonderful." Bruce was about to ask him to think of an excuse not to go but thought better of it. Veronica had taken quite a shine to Nigma. Perhaps there was something she could tell him that the computer couldn't. "Well, I do have some time to kill before I meet with Gordon."

"Bruce! Darling!" Veronica's wide smile fell almost the instant Bruce sat in the wooden chair on the opposite end of the small round table on the outdoor terrace of the Rose Cafe. "What happened to you? You look like you barely slept last night!"

Bruce had managed to clean up for his visit with Veronica, but there wasn't much he could do about the bags under his eyes. He brought his hand up to pinch the bridge of his nose to exaggerate how exhausted he was. "I didn't," he answered truthfully. "Dick, my ward, was in a car accident last night."

Veronica brought her hand up to her mouth. "Oh my goodness! Is he alright?"

"He has a broken leg, but he'll be fine. He's staying at Wayne Manor for a bit to recover. Needless to say, I had a bit of a late night after I left."

Veronica visibly sighed with relief. "Well, that's good. That he'll be alright I mean, not that he broke his leg. And here I was, ready to scold you for not taking care of yourself!"

Bruce had to smile. Veronica could be a bit overdramatic and trying company at times, but she was deep down, a good person. "Thank you for that Ronnie."

Veronica smiled again. "No need to thank me at all, Bruce. To tell the truth, after you and Eddie left last night, the party got a bit dull." She let out a sigh. "I tried to invite Eddie out too, but he said he was busy on a case."

Here was the opening. "Oh?" he asked. "Did he at least tell you what he was working on?"

Veronica shook her head. "No. He did tell me one thing though." She took a quick look round to make sure the customers sitting around them weren't listening in before she leaned forward, conspiratorially. "He saw Batman last night."

Bruce pretended to be interested. "Oh? Did he now?"

"He did. He was very excited about it too. You should have heard him, Bruce, it was like a child meeting Santa Claus for the first time." She leaned back to laugh a bit. "It was actually quite adorable."

Bruce raised an eyebrow. From his limited experience, 'adorable' wasn't a word he would use to describe Edward Nigma. "Adorable? Really Ronnie?"

"Yes Bruce, really. Oh, I know you don't like him much, but you really should give him a chance. When he's not doing his 'genius private investigator' routine, he can actually be a little sweetheart."

Somehow, Bruce truly doubted that. "And you know this..."

Veronica took a sip out of her spring water before she answered. "Well, for starters, despite what you might think of PIs, he's not sleazy at all. He made no overtures to me, he listened to me when I told him about my problems and he didn't attempt to overcharge me in the slightest."

Just because Nigma was capable of showing basic respect to a wealthy client didn't mean he was in any way altruistic. Bruce was about to tell Veronica this when she continued, "After he recovered my diamonds actually, I stopped by his office to thank him. He was already talking to another client of his. It was a young mother and her son. When she left, I ran into her in the hallway and you know what she told me he did for her?"

"Caught her husband in an affair and made sure she got a large divorce settlement?" Bruce asked.

He was surprised by the genuine scowl on Veronica's face. "Oh Bruce, must you be so cynical? As a matter of fact, she wasn't wealthy at all. And her husband wasn't cheating on her. He was beating her."

Bruce actually was stunned by this. Nigma had billed himself as a private detective to the elite of Gotham's society. "What did Nigma do for her?" he asked, now genuinely curious.

"He helped her and her son get away from the creep. He was able to get them to a shelter and he got enough evidence about the man to get him sent to jail for years. He didn't charge her a penny either. He even gave her money to get a plane ticket out of Gotham and back to her family in Michigan!" When Bruce said nothing in response, she smiled. "Well, after hearing that, how could I not fall for him, just a bit?"

It made sense, Bruce supposed, that given Nigma's background, that he may have an aversion to abusers. But this...this didn't fit at all with the smug, self-centered man he'd met the night before. Then again...he had shown a genuine regard for Gordon the previous evening. Bruce idly listened as Veronica continued to chat. The more he found out about Edward Nigma, the less he understood him.

Bruce had been perched on the rooftop of the office building for over an hour, staring through his binoculars into the old brownstone building across the street and at one office in particular. Night had long since fallen over Gotham City and with it came the chatter of the evening crowd. As expected, the murders of Ricci and Maroni men, as well as the attempt on Falcone's life had been the talk of the town. Summer Gleason had provided continuous updates throughout the day, which Bruce had largely kept up with. When he had stopped by GCPD, Gordon had confirmed that Falcone had gone into police protection. However, his health had suffered a decline due to the stress of the attack so he would be unavailable for any further information. Maroni had lawyered up and wasn't talking to anyone. Bruce would pay a visit to him as well, but for now, the man in the office he was scoping out was his best source of information.

Dick's voice crackled in the intercom in his cowl. "Any sign of Nigma?"

"Not yet," Bruce answered. It was well after 9:00 and his search earlier didn't turn up any home address. Where could he be? Finally, Bruce saw a light turn on. "I've gotta go. There's a light on in his office."

"OK. What do you want me to do in the meantime?"

"Keep your eyes and ears open and check in with me if anything happens. I'll check in later." Bruce put his binoculars away and took out his grappling hook, aiming it at the very same fire escape he used to get into the office the previous night. He landed on it just in time to see Nigma pass in front of the window. Bruce watched as he took off his green suit jacket and hung it up on the coat rack by the front door to the office. Nigma turned to face the window and his eyes widened when he saw Bruce on the fire escape. So much for the element of surprise. Bruce slid the window open and stepped into the office. "Busy night, Nigma?"

For a moment Nigma didn't say anything. Then, much to Bruce's irritation, he chuckled. "Well well. Back again already. Am I just that intriguing, Dark Knight?"

Bruce ignored the man's jibe as he strode forward. "We need to talk. I trust you heard about the bombing at the hospital last night."

A dark look came across the man's face. "I did. I had nothing to do with, in case you're wondering."

"I know you didn't Nigma," Bruce said. He continued to advance toward Nigma, stopping only when he was barely a foot from the other man. He didn't miss how the private detective tensed up slightly, or that his face was faintly flushing. "I saw the man behind the attacks."

Nigma's expression turned into that of interest. "You did?" Then she smirked in triumphant realization. "And you don't know who he is. But you think that I do. You need my help."

"I need your informants' help," Bruce corrected. "All I need from you is to take me to them."

Nigma's grin didn't falter in the slightest. "So I take it this means we're partners now?"

Bruce glared slightly at the other man. "Here are the ground rules: this is my investigation. You follow my lead. You do exactly what I tell you to do. And you tell no one about this. Understood?"

Nigma glared back at Bruce, not wavering for a moment. "I'm a detective too, I'll have you know. And a great one. I'm not some little foot soldier you can dictate orders to. And you don't say anything to my informants without me being present." He pointed his finger directly at Bruce's face. "I've spent a long time cultivating some of these sources and I'm not about to have you scare them away!"

Bruce leaned forward so that his face was only inches away from Nigma's. He watched the other man's green eyes widen a bit from fright, and a bit from another emotion Bruce didn't want to think about. "Those are my terms Nigma. Take it or leave it." He watched as Nigma's brow creased in thought then as his shoulders sagged.

"Fine," he said at last. "Let me just get my coat back on."

Bruce took a step back and watched as Nigma put his green jacket back on and grabbed a cane from off of a hook on the wall. Bruce noticed that the cane handle was in the shape of a question mark. "I didn't realize you needed a cane."

"Just an aesthetic choice," Nigma explained. He turned to give Bruce a cheeky grin. "It has other purposes as well. Maybe you'll see." He held his arm out in a flourish. "So! Ready to go partner?"

Bruce was already starting to regret this. "Just keep the theatricality to a minimum, please."

"Oh, you're hardly one to talk, Mr. 'Dresses up like a bat and dangles thugs from rooftops'."

Bruce resisted the urge to roll his eyes. "I'd like to speak with your Falcone sources."

Nigma grinned. "Very well then. Your car or mine?"

"My car," Bruce said. "It's parked across the street. Don't touch anything in it."

If anything, Nigma became more excited. "Going to Pandora's Box in the Batmobile. The girls will never believe it."

"Pandora's Box?"

"Oh, you haven't heard of it? I suppose not, given your reputation for lawful behavior. It's a perfectly charming little-"

"S&M club," Bruce finished. He had to suppress a smirk of his own when he saw Nigma's look of surprise. "Somehow I'm not surprised that you're familiar with it."

Nigma's face flushed at the implication. "I don't have to take that from a man in-never mind. Shall we?"

Bruce gestured towards the front door. "After you." As he watched Nigma open the door, Bruce couldn't help but feel that he'd made a mistake. It couldn't be helped though. If he wanted answers about the gang war and about Nigma himself, he had to go through with this.

#riddlebat #a riddle for a bat #bruce finds out more about ed than he thought he would

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tkmedia · 4 years ago

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Better, worse or same? Lamar Jackson and Ravens' O look more dangerous

6:00 AM ETOWINGS MILLS, Md. -- The Baltimore Ravens have been the NFL’s highest-scoring team in Lamar Jackson’s first two full seasons as a starting quarterback.So, why did the Ravens' biggest free-agent additions and their top draft pick address offense?Baltimore, which has averaged 31.2 points in the regular season with Jackson, has totaled 32 points in Jackson’s three postseason losses. After a 17-3 divisional playoff loss in Buffalo, the Ravens signed guard Kevin Zeitler and wide receiver Sammy Watkins in free agency and drafted wide receiver Rashod Bateman in the first round.With training camp starting July 28, are the Ravens better, worse or the same on offense?Here is a position-by-position analysis for 2021:

Quarterbacks

Additions: NoneLosses: Robert Griffin IIIReturners: Lamar Jackson, Trace McSorley and Tyler HuntleyBetter, worse or the same? Same, even though there will be a new primary backup to Jackson.The Ravens didn’t re-sign Griffin III, who was the least effective of Baltimore’s reserve quarterbacks. McSorley and Huntley showed more big-play potential in limited playing time. So, the upside of McSorley and Huntley cancel out RG3's experience.It’s uncertain at this point who will win the battle between McSorley and Huntley, and the Ravens will likely keep only two quarterbacks on the season-opening 53-man roster for the first time since 2017. This is a calculated risk for Baltimore, which didn’t want to use limited cap space on a viable veteran backup, especially because Jackson has proved to be more durable than many expected.Andy Lyons/Getty Images

Running backs

Additions: Nate McCraryLosses: Mark Ingram IIReturners: J.K. Dobbins, Gus Edwards, Justice Hill, Ty’Son Williams, Patrick Ricard (FB)Better, worse or the same? SameThe loss of Ingram isn’t much of a loss. A Pro Bowl runner in 2019, Ingram was a healthy scratch in six games last season, including both playoff games.Dobbins and Edwards form one of the league’s best running back tandems. During Baltimore’s season-ending five-game win streak, they totaled 762 yards rushing and eight touchdowns.The bad news for AFC North defenses is the Ravens’ running back situation should remain the same for a while. Dobbins and Edwards are under contract through 2023.

Wide receivers

Additions: Sammy Watkins, Rashod Bateman, Tylan Wallace, Deon Cain, Devin GrayLosses: Willie Snead IV, Dez Bryant, Chris Moore, Antoine Wesley, DeAndrew WhiteReturners: Marquise “Hollywood” Brown, Miles Boykin, Devin Duvernay, James Proche II, Jaylon Moore, Binjimen VictorBetter, worse or the same? Better, and the Ravens are banking on it.The Ravens signed Watkins to a one-year, $5 million deal and used the No. 27 overall pick on Bateman after their wide receivers ranked last in catches and receiving yards for the second straight season. Baltimore was so desperate last season that the team signed Bryant, who hadn’t played in the two previous seasons.This group can improve even more if Brown, a first-round pick in 2019, can deliver some consistency. He finished last season strongly (six touchdowns in last six games), and he just participated in his first full offseason. Boykin and Duvernay, two former third-round picks, can earn more playing time with a strong training camp and preseason.The Ravens need to help Jackson by producing more big plays. Baltimore’s wide receivers totaled 38 catches of 20-plus yards, which were tied for third fewest in the NFL.

Tight ends

Additions: Josh Oliver, Ben Mason, Tony Poljan.Losses: NoneReturners: Mark Andrews, Nick Boyle, Eric Tomlinson, Eli Wolf, Jake BreelandBetter, worse or the same? BetterAndrews, who has 17 touchdown catches the past two seasons, really impressed coach John Harbaugh with his improved route running this offseason. Heading into his contract year, Andrews is set to cash in with another big season.The return of Boyle makes the Ravens and their running game even stronger. Boyle, who is considered the top blocking tight end in the league, missed the final seven games last season with a knee injury.One of Baltimore's more underrated moves was trading a conditional seventh-round pick to the Jacksonville Jaguars for Oliver. He flashed at times this spring and looks like a raw version of Darren Waller, who began his career with the Ravens.The NFL season is almost here. Check out one last offseason move for all 32 teams: Read more » • Full 2021 schedule | Depth charts » • Transactions | Injuries | More NFL »

Offensive line

Additions: Kevin Zeitler, Alejandro Villanueva, Ben Cleveland, Michael Schofield, Ja’Wuan James, Greg Mancz, Adrian Ealy, Foster SarellLosses: Orlando Brown Jr., Matt Skura, D.J. FlukerReturners: Ronnie Stanley, Bradley Bozeman, Patrick Mekari, Tyre Phillips, Ben Powers, Trystan Colon, Ben Bredeson, Andre SmithBetter, worse or the same? Better, at least the Ravens hope so.No group underwent more changes on the Ravens than the offensive line. There is no starter returning to the same spot from last season’s playoffs.Stanley, a first-team All-Pro in 2019, is expected to return at left tackle at some point in training camp after suffering a season-ending ankle injury in Week 8. Bradley Bozeman, a two-year starter at left guard, has moved to his more natural position at center, which was a major trouble spot for Baltimore last season.Zeiter, the team’s biggest free-agent addition, should provide some Marshal Yanda-type stability at right guard. The Ravens made a bold move of trading Orlando Brown Jr. to the Kansas City Chiefs and replacing him at right tackle with Alejandro Villanueva, the former left tackle for the Pittsburgh Steelers.The major question mark is at left guard. Rookie third-round pick Ben Cleveland appears to the be the frontrunner, although he’ll have to beat out Tyre Phillips and Ben Powers. Read the full article

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viraljournalist · 6 years ago

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Biggest Week 10 injury questions for all 32 NFL teams

New Post has been published on https://viraljournalist.com/biggest-week-10-injury-questions-for-all-32-nfl-teams/

Biggest Week 10 injury questions for all 32 NFL teams

7:48 PM ET

NFL NationESPN

After missing recent action, Patrick Mahomes and David Johnson could be back in their respective teams’ active lineups this weekend, and A.J. Green could finally make his 2019 debut.

Our NFL Nation reporters update the top injury question for every team heading into Week 10, with intel gathered directly from the source:

Jump to: ARI | ATL | BAL | BUF | CAR | CHI | CIN CLE | DAL | DEN | DET | GB | HOU | IND JAX | KC | LAC | LAR | MIA | MIN | NE NO | NYG | NYJ | OAK | PHI | PIT | SF SEA | TB | TEN | WSH

AFC EAST

The Bills are in a better position than most in terms of overall team health. Cornerback Kevin Johnson was limited in Wednesday’s practice with a knee injury but did not don a red “non-contact” jersey; this bodes well for his availability Sunday. He’s one of three outside corners on Buffalo’s 53-man roster and his depth is needed as the team prepares for Odell Beckham Jr. and Jarvis Landry. — Marcel Louis-Jacques

Two key veteran starters — center Daniel Kilgore (knee) and safety Reshad Jones — (chest) have missed the past three games, but each could be nearing a return this Sunday; both are practicing for the second consecutive week, and coach Brian Flores deemed them close to a return. It could signal the return of the Dolphins’ best active defensive back in Jones and offensive captain in Kilgore. — Cameron Wolfe

The Patriots held their lone practice of the bye week, and starting safety Patrick Chung (heel/chest) was one of just two players not spotted at the beginning of the full-pads workout (tight end Benjamin Watson was the other). So the bye comes at a good time for Chung, whose ability to match up with opposing tight ends and help in run support makes him a key cog to the defense. — Mike Reiss

Running back Le’Veon Bell (knee) didn’t practice Wednesday (his first miss of the season), but the team is cautiously optimistic that he will be able to play against the Giants. Even if he plays, it could mean more carries for Bilal Powell and Ty Montgomery. Tight end Chris Herndon (hamstring) is probably 50-50. He’s practicing on a limited basis, but he hasn’t been able to cut loose yet. — Rich Cimini

AFC NORTH

There really isn’t much of an injury question for the Ravens this week. Ronnie Stanley, the Ravens’ starting left tackle, missed Wednesday’s practice with a knee injury but is expected to play Sunday against the Bengals. If Stanley surprisingly can’t suit up, James Hurst would fill in for him. The only other Baltimore player who missed practice because of an injury is guard Marshal Yanda, who is dealing with a cold he picked up from his children. — Jamison Hensley

Before Wednesday, A.J. Green (ankle) appeared on track to make his season debut this weekend. But after he missed practice Wednesday, that appears up in the air. If he doesn’t have a full practice Thursday, Green could be in jeopardy of missing another game. This is already the longest injury absence of his NFL career. — Ben Baby

Defensive end Olivier Vernon did not practice while nursing a knee injury suffered Sunday. Coach Freddie Kitchens has called him day-to-day. The good news is that safety Damarious Randall has returned from a hamstring injury, while left tackle Greg Robinson was practicing despite an ankle injury. Tight end Ricky Seals-Jones (knee) was limited to the side, which means for the moment Cleveland has only two healthy TEs, Demetrius Harris and former practice-squad member Stephen Carlson. — Jake Trotter

Will running back James Conner play Sunday? Still recovering from an AC injury to his shoulder suffered in the final minutes of the victory against the Dolphins, Conner didn’t play against the Colts. Conner is expected to be limited in practice this week, but “perk up” in later practices, per coach Mike Tomlin. If Conner can’t go, the Steelers will again lean heavily on Jaylen Samuels and Trey Edmunds — who were ineffective in the red zone in the Week 9 win. — Brooke Pryor

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Field Yates and Stephania Bell give an update on James Conner’s shoulder injury and how fantasy managers should handle him.

AFC SOUTH

The Texans hope their secondary will benefit from the bye week. On Tuesday, coach Bill O’Brien said cornerbacks Bradley Roby (hamstring) and Lonnie Johnson (concussion) as well as safety Tashaun Gipson (back/wrist) are trending in the right direction to be ready to play against Baltimore in Week 11. — Sarah Barshop

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A possible positive sign for the Colts: Quarterback Jacoby Brissett (knee) was a limited participant in practice Wednesday just days after suffering a sprained MCL in his left knee in the first half against Pittsburgh. However, coach Frank Reich said it’s not a “slam dunk” that Brissett plays Sunday against the Dolphins. “This guy is as tough as they come, but we’ve got to do the right thing for him and for our team,” Reich said. “We will just see how it plays out. He is our quarterback. We want him to play and if he’s ready to play, then he will be the starter.” Brian Hoyer will start if Brissett doesn’t play. — Mike Wells

The bye week is coming at the perfect time for wide receiver Dede Westbrook and cornerback D.J. Hayden, both of whom missed Sunday’s game with shoulder/neck injuries. Coach Doug Marrone said both should return to practice Monday, and would be on track to play the following Sunday. In fact, Marrone said he anticipates linebackers Leon Jacobs (hamstring) and Quincy Williams (hamstring) will return to practice Monday as well. That’s three starters and a key reserve the Jaguars will have back for the Colts. — Mike DiRocco

Center Ben Jones missed last weekend’s game against the Panthers due to a concussion, and reserve swing lineman Jamil Douglas started in Jones’ place. Jones was on the field for the individual period Wednesday, and coach Mike Vrabel said Jones is progressing but still not cleared from concussion protocol. — Turron Davenport

AFC WEST

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With the Broncos on their bye week, the health of right tackle Ja’Wuan James continues to be a question that affects the team’s offense. Essentially, the Broncos would like, at minimum, to rotate Elijah Wilkinson and Garett Bolles at left tackle because Bolles continues to struggle to avoid, and then rebound from, penalties in games. But they can’t use Wilkinson to do that when James is not in the lineup, because Wilkinson is starting at right tackle. James played 10 snaps in the season opener when he suffered a knee injury. He injured the same knee 22 plays into the next game he played — Week 8 against the Colts. So with James having been in the lineup just 32 plays all season, Denver continues to try to make do on the offensive line. As Broncos players adjourned for their bye-week break, coach Vic Fangio said, “I don’t know that yet” when asked if James would be able to play Week 11 against Minnesota. — Jeff Legwold

The starting quarterback spot for Sunday’s game against the Titans looks to be Patrick Mahomes’ to lose. The Chiefs increased his workload in practice Wednesday as they began preparations for the Titans. If his knee holds up, there’s a good chance he will play. But Chiefs haven’t committed to that yet, so this could again come down to the end of the week. — Adam Teicher

Linebacker Denzel Perryman is dealing with a knee injury he suffered during last weekend’s victory over the Packers. Perryman did not practice this week, and is questionable for Thursday’s road game against the Raiders. Chargers coach Anthony Lynn said Perryman will be a game-time decision. Perryman has recorded 20 combined tackles over the past three games, so the Chargers could use the Miami product in the lineup. — Eric D. Williams

Center Rodney Hudson missed the win against the Lions after suffering an ankle injury 10 plays into the Raiders’ loss in Houston on Oct. 27. And right tackle Trent Brown went down three plays into the Lions game with a knee injury, though he tried, unsuccessfully, to return while wearing a knee brace. On such a short week, it’s hard to see either O-lineman returning to face the Chargers on Thursday. Which would mean more snaps for center Andre James and tackle David Sharpe, who have both acquitted themselves well in replacing Hudson and Brown thus far. — Paul Gutierrez

NFC EAST

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With a quick turnaround following Monday’s road game, the Cowboys did not have a padded practice Wednesday, and Amari Cooper was a spectator. Cooper hurt his knee in practice last week and banged it into the turf against the Giants, but continued to play. The hope is that rest will help him play Sunday. Leighton Vander Esch (stinger) was on the field for the workout and the belief is he will be able to return after sitting out Monday. If he can’t, then Sean Lee will continue to see action. Safety Jeff Heath has 12 stitches on his knee that could affect his status this weekend, but the expectation is he will be able to play against Minnesota. — Todd Archer

Tight end Evan Engram ruled himself out this weekend against the Jets with what the Giants are calling a “mid-foot sprain.” He wore a boot Wednesday on his left foot. The MRIs were sent to foot specialist Dr. Robert Anderson, but Engram said the belief is that it’s not the dreaded Lisfranc injury. He “dodged a bullet,” as the TE put it. Engram’s hope is that he can return after the Week 11 bye for the game against Chicago. — Jordan Raanan

Eagles wide receiver Alshon Jeffery suffered an ankle injury late in Sunday’s victory against the Bears, but he didn’t seem overly concerned about it after the game. However, couple this latest ailment with the calf strain that hindered Jeffery for much of the first half of the season, and this becomes a much-needed bye week for the veteran, who will have to carry the load now that DeSean Jackson is sidelined for the remainder of the season. “I’m going to take care of my body, that’s about it,” Jeffery said of his plans this week. “I’m not doing too much. Just treatment.” — Tim McManus

Quarterback Case Keenum is still in the concussion protocol, but it might be a moot point because there’s a good chance Dwayne Haskins will continue to start. The bye week will be good for running back Derrius Guice, who is expected to come off the injured reserve list after spraining his left knee. The Redskins hope having an extra week — he would have been eligible to return this week — will help Guice. The week off should also benefit right tackle Morgan Moses (pectoral injury), who should be fine, and defensive lineman Tim Settle, who underwent platelet-rich plasma treatment for a hamstring injury. His status remains uncertain. — John Keim

NFC NORTH

The Bears made it out of Philadelphia with only one noteworthy injury: Nose tackle Eddie Goldman is dealing with a thigh issue. Goldman has just 16 total tackles on the season, but he’s a large body who clogs running lanes up the middle. The Eagles rushed for 146 yards against the Bears in Week 9. Ex-Bear Jordan Howard ran for 82 yards and one touchdown on 19 carries. Goldman played only 11 of 89 defensive snaps in that loss. — Jeff Dickerson

Matthew Stafford (hip/back) was limited in practice, and at this point it doesn’t seem that concerning. But considering the quarterback has had issues with the hip and back over the past season-plus, it’s going to be worth monitoring as the week progresses. Starting guard Joe Dahl (ankle) missed practice as well, which likely means Kenny Wiggins and Graham Glasgow will start for the second consecutive game. Tracy Walker (knee) missed practice again Wednesday, too. But the main one to watch, for now, is Stafford. — Michael Rothstein

Yes, Davante Adams returned last weekend from a four-game absence due to turf toe. And yes, he caught seven passes Sunday against the Chargers, but he still didn’t look like the Adams of old. And here’s why: “I’m obviously healed at this point but as far as being a thousand percent back to myself, I wouldn’t quite say I’m quite there yet,” Adams said. “But I’m able to do a lot of things right now and do what I can to contribute.” — Rob Demovsky

The Vikings are considerably more banged up entering Week 10 than they’ve been at any point this season. Adam Thielen (hamstring), C.J. Ham (ankle) and Ifeadi Odenigbo (shoulder) were held out of practice Wednesday, while Trae Waynes (ankle) and Stephen Weatherly (groin) were limited participants. Thielen aggravating the hamstring injury he initially sustained in Week 7 could put him at risk of missing more time while he heals. When Dalvin Cook dealt with a similar injury last season, Minnesota eventually shut the running back down for several weeks to let him recover instead of allowing him to practice on a limited basis and testing out his hamstring ahead of several games to determine whether he could go. It feels like this could be the course of action Minnesota takes with Thielen to get him back fully healthy as the Vikings look to make a push for the playoffs down the stretch. — Courtney Cronin

NFC SOUTH

Quarterback Matt Ryan, who missed the Falcons’ Week 8 game against Seattle with a sprained right ankle, was limited in practice Wednesday. Coach Dan Quinn stopped short of declaring Ryan ready to play against the Saints on Sunday, but Quinn said during last week’s bye he was optimistic about Ryan’s return. “Feel good,” Ryan said after practice. “Feeling a little bit better every day. That’s what you do when you have something like this. You just try and focus on daily improvement, try to get back to yourself as fast as possible.” Ryan said he always prepares to start, so his mindset hasn’t changed going into this week. He hadn’t missed a game since December 2009 before he was inactive for the loss to the Seahawks. — Vaughn McClure

Defensive end Vernon Butler was having back issues and went for an evaluation Wednesday, so the Panthers signed Wes Horton, who had been with the team previously. Horton knows the system, so it should be an easy adjustment if Butler can’t play Sunday at Green Bay. Butler had stepped up since the loss of Pro Bowl defensive end/tackle Kawann Short. — David Newton

The bye week served the Saints well. They had every player on the practice field Wednesday, including running back Alvin Kamara (ankle/knee), tight end Jared Cook (ankle) and wide receiver Tre’Quan Smith (ankle). Kamara was listed as limited, so it’s possible the Saints might lighten his workload a bit to keep him fresh. But he should still be a big part of the offense. — Mike Triplett

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Stephania Bell expects RB Alvin Kamara will be active Sunday coming off the Saints’ bye week.

Coach Bruce Arians said tight end O.J. Howard (hamstring) would be good to go this weekend after missing the past two games with a hamstring injury, and Cameron Brate continues to play through sore ribs. On the defensive side of the ball, Arians said “there’s a chance” outside linebacker Carl Nassib (groin) will play, but it’s unlikely backup Anthony Nelson (hamstring) will. Cornerback Carlton Davis, who suffered a hip injury during warmups against the Seahawks, is also a question mark at this point. — Jenna Laine

NFC WEST

Right tackle Justin Murray (knee) did not practice again Wednesday, putting his status for Sunday’s game at Tampa Bay in doubt. If he can’t play, Justin Pugh will likely line up at right tackle again and Mason Cole, whom coach Kliff Kingsbury called Arizona’s most valuable lineman because of his versatility, will play left tackle for a second consecutive game. Meanwhile, running back David Johnson (ankle), who missed the past two games and most of the Week 7 game against the Giants, declared that he’s “definitely playing” this weekend, though Kingsbury wasn’t dealing in absolutes. “Hopefully we see what we want this week and we can get him back out there,” the coach said. — Josh Weinfuss

Wide receiver Brandin Cooks has been ruled out against the Steelers as he continues to recover and seek opinions from specialists for the two concussions he suffered last month. In Cooks’ absence, Josh Reynolds is expected to start. Sean McVay also said outside linebacker Clay Matthews, who was sidelined after Week 5 after breaking his jaw, and running back Malcolm Brown, who was inactive the past two games because of an ankle injury, were on track to play. — Lindsey Thiry

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Stephania Bell contemplates how fantasy managers should handle Brandin Cooks due to the uncertainty of his return from his latest concussion.

Reinforcements are on the way for the 49ers’ offense in the form of left tackle Joe Staley (fibula) and fullback Kyle Juszczyk (sprained MCL), both of whom are expecting to play Monday night against Seattle. The question is whether right tackle Mike McGlinchey will also be back from his knee injury. McGlinchey is hopeful that he will return, and said it’s not so much about healing as getting his wind back. “I think I’m just about through the rehab process and it’s about becoming a football player again,” McGlinchey said. — Nick Wagoner

Wide receiver Josh Gordon passed his physical and will practice Thursday when the Seahawks get back to work ahead of their Monday night game against the 49ers. Gordon still has a new offense to learn, and the Seahawks have to figure out where he might fit within it. But coach Pete Carroll said Gordon is “ready to go” physically after dealing with a minor knee injury that landed him on injured reserve with the Patriots. — Brady Henderson

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coolrahulsarin · 2 years ago

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Broncos 20-21 49ers (August 19, 2023) Game Summary

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Broncos 20-21 49ers (August 19, 2023) Game Summary

SANTA CLARA, Calif. — — Trey Lance and Jake Moody got some vindication in the San Francisco 49ers final series.

Lance overcame an interception on his opening drive to set up two fourth-quarter scores, including Moody’s game-winning 32-yard field goal on the final play of San Francisco’s 21-20 win over the Denver Broncos on Saturday night. .

Moody rebounded after missing two field goals last week and an extra point earlier in the game to convert the winner as he tries to show why the Niners used a third-round pick on a kicker.

“There’s pressure in those situations,” coach Kyle Shanahan said. “That’s really what he has to go through, those pressure moments. It was great to generate some of those for him today. It was a step up from last week.”

Lance followed up last week’s shaky start by throwing an interception off a screen pass on his first possession of the game. But he also threw a 22-yard touchdown pass to Cameron Latu and two big passes to Ronnie Bell to set up the game-winning kick.

Lance was 12 of 18 for 173 yards.

“I feel like every time I get on the field, I learn a lot, I get a lot better with every replay,” Lance said. “I just watch as many photos as I can and keep getting as many reps as I can with these guys.”

Lance is in a battle with Sam Darnold to be Brock Purdy’s backup.

Purdy had his first action in a game since injuring his elbow in San Francisco’s NFC title loss at Philadelphia. Purdy underwent surgery on March 10 and returned to training camp, but did not play in the preseason opener in Las Vegas.

He looked good against the Broncos, throwing mostly short passes in his brief action. He went 4-of-5 for 65 yards, thanks in part to Deebo Samuel turning two short passes into long gains, but San Francisco (1-1) settled for a field goal after a sack in the red zone halted the drive. .

“It felt great to be with the guys in a game environment,” Purdy said. “Obviously, it just takes the nerves out a bit, just sets up a game and everything. … It felt really good to be there to drive and the game environment.”

Then Russell Wilson came on for Denver and efficiently moved the Broncos (0-2) down the field on a 13-play drive that also ended in a field goal. After taking up his fourth drive last week to lead Denver within a score on a touchdown pass, Wilson looked his best against a San Francisco defense that had most of its starters out of contention, Nick Bosa.

Wilson completed 3 of 6 passes for 24 yards and also rushed three times for 25 yards before turning the game over to Jarrett Stidham.

“I thought it was smart,” coach Sean Payton said.

Darnold relieved Purdy and completed 11 of 14 passes for 109 yards. He had an interception that deflected off Bell and finished his night with an 11-yard touchdown pass to undrafted rookie fullback Jack Colletto.

Lance then overcame the shaky start to lead the Niners back to victory.

BACK IN ACTION

Broncos running back Javonte Williams started his first action since suffering a season-ending knee injury in Week 4 last year. Williams dropped a screen pass on his first play, but kept busy after that. He had 3 carries for 12 yards and four receptions for 18 yards on two drives.

“It was like a weight was lifted off my shoulders,” Williams said. “I was thinking it was going to hurt. But I didn’t really feel it.”

INJURY REPORT

Niners WR Danny Gray left with a possible clavicle injury after injuring himself on the kickoff return. DL Kerry Hyder Jr. left in the second quarter with a shoulder injury.

Broncos WR Jalen Virgil left the game with a knee injury after getting hurt on a 50-yard reception on the final play of the first half. Virgil was tackled at 1 and time ran out as Jarrett Stidham spiked the ball to try and set up a final play.

UNTIL NEXT TIME

Broncos: Host the Rams in the preseason finale next Saturday night.

49ers: Wrap up preseason at home against the Chargers on Friday night.

——

AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl

#Broncos #49ers #August #Game #Summary

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theuniversitychallengereview · 8 years ago

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Episode 8 - Sheffield Hallam vs Newcastle

I’m going to start this week’s blog by pitching you a TV show, after which I will try and tenuously link it to The Challenge.

Okay, so you know how after elections have been held, there is coverage through the night on just about every channel apart from the porn ones (or maybe even the porn ones, I’ve never checked) and Dave (which is showing reruns of the last election) with a wide variety of guys called David and Jeremy offering up cutting analysis and maybe a few jokes here and there until Laura Kuenssberg blows her whistle and Big Ben Bongs (RIP) to bring about the end of proceedings. The problem with this is that the results are announced before the game even begins, with the ominous sounding of the exit poll toll.

They all sit around debating whether or not the exit poll is right when there’s a very big chance that it’ll be right and an even bigger chance that any inaccuracies won’t be big enough to swing the results in any meaningful way. It takes all of the sporting thrill out of the event, so I am proposing exactly the same show, but without the exit poll.

I mean, I stay up all night to watch anyway, because there are a bunch of fantastic charts, but if there was no inevitability about it all then you could really live in the moment of each constituency announcement. (If anyone from the television is reading this please get in touch) Likewise with Brexit, that would have been an absolutely exhilarating ride for the full ten hours.

Sheffield Hallam, as well reaching the quarter finals of University Challengein 2001, is also a parliamentary constituency. Specifically it was the old seat of Nicholas William Peter Clegg, who lost it in May and then proceeded to make an interminably long speech which, despite feverish flicking through the myriad channels of dirge, I never could escape from.

Like post exit-poll election night TV, University Challenge could also be said to be rather predictable. The last four finals have been all Oxbridge affairs, and half of all series champions have come from those two Universities. This is due in part to the fact that both have dedicated quizzing societies and a great number of exceptional quizzers. But they also get to enter five teams each a year.

When University Challenge went on hiatus in 1987, the Oxford University Quiz Society limped on for a few years and disappeared all together in the early 90s. It was given the kiss of life when Magdalen won consecutive titles just before the turn of the millennium. In those early years of the Paxman era, the triumphs of the Oxbridge colleges, helped by the fact they had multiple entries, spurred them onto the creation of the quizzing dynasty that still exists. Success breeds success.

The University of Manchester is also an example of this, and other institutions with growing quiz societies like Edinburgh and Warwick are steadily improving as they look to challenge the ancient duopoly. If more spaces were open to non-Oxbridge entrants then perhaps we would see a surge in enthusiasm for quizzing spread across more Universities.

Naturally, given the high concentrations of talent, the Oxford and Cambridge “superteams” would be even harder to beat at first, but not unbeatable, given the element of chance in the knockout format. And after a few years, with the appearances divvied up more widely throughout the country, I think there would be a proliferation of interest in quizzing much as there was in Oxford post-revival, and that the gap would even itself out a bit.

I’m not sure why I’ve decided to give this spiel today when the match features no Collegiate teams, but I started my bit about the banning of exit polls without any idea of how I was going to segue and I think I kinda found a throughline (deliciously tenuous, as promised) so I can’t afford to waste it.

Hallam’s quarter final came on their only appearance, whereas Newcastle have made the last eight five times, putting them sixth for the Paxman era, though they've never made it any further, putting them joint forty-ninth for semi-final appearances. At least one of them would have the chance to have the chance of reaching the round robin again by making it to the second round.

Not that either side seemed particularly bothered in taking that chance over the first few questions, with a couple of starters sailing off into the ether, bothered only by a neg from Newcastle’s Reynard. His teammate Nielsen dug them out of the minuses with the first of five ten pointers - the highest of the show.

Brexit made its first appearance of the series (and its second of this blog post) with the picture starter on Googling data. I was then tricked by the bonuses on similar graphs for the searching of three politicians into thinking that the colour of each line represented the party affiliations of the relevant persons. So I was initially very confused by how the blue line could be Nick Clegg (although...), and then vindicated with my guess of Nicola Sturgeon for the yellow line. I’d realised by the time of the red line that I’d been wrong, and Hallam missed the obvious gimme of Dave C for what would have been the only bonus points they picked up all day.

Newcastle like to play quickly when they know their bonuses, though on one occasion this backfires and they interrupt Paxman with an incorrect answer. Fortunately it was the correct answer to the next question - maybe they’d just been trying to take the Two Ronnies Mastermind sketch to futuristic territory.

And talking of predicting answers, pretty much the exact question on the Big Dipper that Brian Jackson got caught for cheating on in Starter For Ten came up, though sadly no one buzzed in before it had been asked. It was one of several Astronomy questions on the episode, some of which were quite delightful, but some of which were tedious ‘which one of the planets’ type things. There are only eight planets in the solar system and you tend to be able to eliminate at least five even if you have no idea what the question is on about so I don’t know why there are always so many of them.

I watched the 2000 Grand Final between Oriel and Durham today, and one of the bonuses essentially amounted to ‘which planet comes after Uranus’. I know Pluto was still alive and kicking back then, so they could maybe have gone for that, but its definitely a sign that the questions weren’t all “much harder back in the day” as is often said.

Regardless of the question difficulty, tonights match was the lowest scoring of the past ten years (and possibly twenty five, I haven’t finished the stats) with the combined total of 210 points being lower than Bristol, Southampton and Warwick achieved on their own already this series.

Final Score: Sheffield Hallam 40 - 170 Newcastle

Hallam certainly won’t be here for the highest scoring loser play-off (they’d be shoe ins if it was lowest scoring losers) and Newcastle will need to up their game if they’re going to have any hopes of making the quarter finals for a sixth time, or the semis for the first.

#university challenge #newcastle #sheffield hallam #bbc2 #jeremy paxman

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junker-town · 6 years ago

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The 6 best offensive lines in the NFL right now

Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

Retired NFL lineman Geoff Schwartz checks in on the top two tiers of OLs a quarter of the way through the season.

Every quarter of the NFL season, I’ll be doing an offensive rankings of sort. I don’t like to rank 1-32, because there are always many units that are close in the rankings. So I’ll use the tier system. Heading into the season, we had the Eagles, Cowboys, Saints, Patriots, and Steelers in the upper tier, followed closely by the Packers, Bears, Colts, and Chiefs.

Let’s see where the offensive lines stand now.

The upper tier after four weeks of the regular season has three of the five from the preseason rankings: the Eagles, Cowboys and Saints. The Patriots’ injuries have slid them down, while the Steelers just haven’t been the same — possibly because of the quarterback situation, but more because they lost their offensive line coach, Mike Munchak, to the Broncos.

It’s also worth mentioning, as longtime NFL reporter John Clayton told me last season, the rule of 150. If your starting offensive line has a combined age of 150 or over, it declines fast due to older players’ diminishing skills and injuries. I hadn’t heard about it, but it applied last year to the Atlanta Falcons, whose OL got worse as the season went along. With a younger right tackle, the Steelers are right at 150, so according to Clayton’s theory, their OL is supposed to decline, which is showing just a bit.

But enough about which ones have fallen. Let’s get to the best of the best right now. These are no order, FYI.

The top offensive line tier

There are just three in this group, at least so far this season.

Philadelphia Eagles

It’s no surprise the Eagles are in this upper tier. They are monsters in the trenches, even with some injuries hampering them. What makes the Eagles’ offensive line so unique is they have big bodies. Brandon Brooks at right guard and Jason Kelce at center are playing at their usual high levels. Both tackles, Lane Johnson and Jason Peters, are ranked in the top 10, according to Pro Football Focus.

As a unit, the Eagles are 12th in adjusted line yards, second in power rank (needing 2 yards or less on third or fourth down), and eighth in stuff rate, all of those according to Football Outsiders. These rushing numbers are all without having an elite-level running back.

In pass protection, they are a physical group, highlighted by Johnson. Their tackles are almost always on an island and give Carson Wentz plenty of time for work.

Here are some highlights of their offensive line, brought to you by Brandon Thorn. If you want weekly offensive line breakdowns and videos, he’s the man to follow.

Brandon Brooks is one of the biggest guards in the NFL, but is also one of the most skilled. Through the first 3 weeks he's shown some impressive variance in his sets & hands. - Snatch & trap - 'Flash' technique - Jump set This after tearing his Achilles 8 months ago pic.twitter.com/J0qppO23Yy

— Brandon Thorn (@BrandonThornNFL) September 26, 2019

Dallas Cowboys

The Cowboys might be the “best” offensive line through the first four weeks. I know, the Saints ate them up in Week 4, but one game shouldn’t change my opinion, or yours, for that manner.

I said before the season that Cowboys center Travis Frederick was the single most important addition for a contender. Having him back has solidified the offensive line and added some protection at left guard, where Connor Williams struggles at times. Zack Martin and Tyron Smith have been their usual excellent selves, and La’el Collins, fresh off a new contract at right tackle, is currently the highest-ranked tackle by Pro Football Focus.

The film backs up how Collins is playing:

Such a great rep by La'el Collins here to get the snatch in vs. Jordan 1v1 & put him on the turf pic.twitter.com/yVLz16Akc2

— Brandon Thorn (@BrandonThornNFL) October 2, 2019

The Cowboys are fifth in adjusted line yards, first in power rank, and seventh in second-level rank, which measures the yards earned between 5-10 on a given run. That shows me the Cowboys are opening up massive holes for the running backs. They are also playing smart football, which is something needed when running some of these RPO-style plays, as evidenced by Smith here:

Y’all ... freaking clinic footwork and execution by the @dallascowboys LT Tyron Smith on Dak Prescott’s long run. The Redskins run a gap exchange to force Dak to pull the ball and Tyron’s footwork and prep allow him to make a tougher block than it looks. Great work pic.twitter.com/V9IJFn3eSU

— Geoff Schwartz (@geoffschwartz) September 17, 2019

New Orleans Saints

The Saints had an outstanding offensive line last season and returned four starters — all but center Max Unger, who retired. His replacement came in the form of Erik McCoy, a rookie from Texas A&M. He’s had his ups and downs, but luckily for the Saints, his ups have been higher than his downs.

Look at this finish by McCoy against the Cowboys:

Erik McCoy having a strong night. pic.twitter.com/bSbS7w3XAZ

— Cole Cubelic (@colecubelic) September 30, 2019

What I love most about the Saints’ offensive line is their versatility. They run a wide variety of run schemes and they excel in their ability to execute those blocks. Here’s an example from Week 1:

This might be the best blocked run play of week 1! All of the @Saints lineman get a plus on this toss play, including rookie center Erik McCoy. Huge hole for Kamara to sprint through. Notice the finish by everyone! up!! @CoachPaintCH pic.twitter.com/5FG1uT11Ag

— Geoff Schwartz (@geoffschwartz) September 12, 2019

While they are big road graders, they also have nimble feet in pass protection, and their right tackle is one of the best in the game.

The second offensive line tier

A few units are knocking on the door of the first tier, but aren’t quite there yet.

Baltimore Ravens

Their offensive line has been great rushing the football. I was wrong on my prediction about Orlando Brown Jr., as I saw him more like Ereck Flowers. The big man has been powerful in the run game, leading this unit to the second-best adjusted line yards rate, while also being third in second-level yards. Also, Brown understands the pass pro isn’t passive.

There's some serious power behind Orlando Brown Jr.'s strikes pic.twitter.com/JtMG6NyNbR

— Brandon Thorn (@BrandonThornNFL) September 25, 2019

Lastly, left tackle Ronnie Stanley has come into his own and is having a Pro Bowl-caliber start to his season.

Indianapolis Colts

The fighting Quenton Nelsons! This dude is amazing at his job, as you’ve seen with the hundreds of videos I’ve posted in the last three seasons (including his last year at Notre Dame). The Colts are ninth in running back yards and seventh in adjusted sack yards.

They weren’t in the upper tier entering the season because of their right side, which is still the side of the line that’s holding them back. Don’t worry, though. They are still an above-average unit.

Green Bay Packers

The Packers continue to have a terrific tackle pass protection unit, led by left tackle David Bakhtiari. Their issue is at right guard, where Billy Turner hasn’t played well, and it’s messing up their pass protection at times. It’s hard to protect at tackle when the quarterback can’t step up in the pocket. The right guard is vital to the pass protection success.

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gizedcom · 5 years ago

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Guerin Emig: A vote of conscience, confidence for Chuba Hubbard as Big 12 Offensive Player of Year | OSU Sports Extra

Sam Ehlinger will likely be the Big 12 Preseason Offensive Player of the Year, scheduled to be announced this week, which is both sensible and predictable given Ehlinger’s accomplishments and the fact he plays the most important position on the league’s most scrutinized team.

I believe he will be first team All-Big 12 quarterback at the end of 2020, assuming there is a 2020 season.

I also believe Oklahoma State running back Chuba Hubbard will be Offensive Player of the Year.

Consider this a vote of conscience, Hubbard having joined basketball coach Mike Boynton as the moral compass of OSU athletics the past several weeks.

Consider this primarily a vote of confidence.

I like Hubbard because I’m confident he is going to be as active in OSU’s offense as he was last year when he touched the ball 351 times.

Wait, you say. Remember what Mike Gundy said last January before the world went insane?

“I don’t see Chuba getting 30 carries a game like he did last year.”

I also remember Gundy saying five minutes later: “We need to have Chuba more involved in the throwing game. It makes us a better offense.”

What’s more likely to happen this season — Gundy giving No. 2 running back LD Brown more carries? Or Hubbard adding to his 23 receptions total from 2019?

I doubt Hubbard equals Joseph Randle’s 43-catch production out of OSU’s 2011 backfield. Surely, though, he can get in the 30s. He caught seven passes at West Virginia alone last fall.

Gundy and newly-installed offensive coordinator Kasey Dunn want Spencer Sanders targeting Tylan Wallace, Dillon Stoner and Landon Wolf downfield, no doubt. They want Sanders handing off to Hubbard more than flipping him screen passes.

I’m confident handing off to Hubbard will be just as effective this year as it was last. Meaning, I’m confident of the following…

* That OSU will figure out a way to play a couple non-conference games.

Hubbard rushed for 477 yards and six touchdowns against Oregon State and Tulsa. It was man barreling over boys.

It would have been the same this September, only now Oregon State isn’t playing in Stillwater and who knows whether the Big 12 will join the Pac-12 and Big Ten in wiping out non-conference games?

* That OSU will figure out a way to fortify an offensive line missing Johnny Wilson, Marcus Keyes and Dylan Galloway from the one that blew open holes a year ago.

Hubbard will be depending on Teven Jenkins and Bryce Bray, the two full-time returning starters, primarily, but also on West Virginia transfer Josh Sills, who should be a starter, and on coach Charlie Dickey, who is charged with rebuilding half his line.

* That Tylan Wallace stays healthy.

With Wallace out wide, defenses must play OSU’s run game honestly. That happened the first half of 2019, before Wallace tore up his knee. Then defenses cheated a little closer to the box and Hubbard’s production dipped.

* That Hubbard stays healthy.

“Chuba was beat up the last part of the season and didn’t practice much,” Gundy also said last January.

He’s going to get beat up again this season. It’s the life of a 2,000-yard running back, no matter how carefully he is protected.

Hubbard still cleared 100 yards in his last three regular-season games of 2019, but he didn’t have the same burst. He got a month of rest before the Texas Bowl, then averaged 8.2 yards per carry against Texas A&M.

I have confidence Hubbard will pick up where he left off when he gets his first touch of 2020, that he’ll keep getting touches both in the run and pass game, that he’ll keep cutting back into wide swaths created by his replenished line, that he and Wallace will be healthier deeper into the season, and that the end result will make him 2020 Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year.

Here’s my Preseason All-Big 12 ballot

Spencer Rattler, Spencer Sanders, Brock Purdy, Charlie Brewer, Alan Bowman and Skylar Thompson make this the deepest position in the conference. No quarterback is more proven, or valuable, than Ehlinger.

Chuba Hubbard, Oklahoma State

Hubbard is obvious. I went with Brooks over Pooka Williams and Breece Hall because of opportunities. Brooks should get plenty of touches with Trey Sermon now at Ohio State.

Wallace is also obvious. I have no idea about the second receiver. Brennan Eagles of Texas? T.J. Vasher of Texas Tech? Charleston Rambo of OU? I sort of think Rattler spreads it around. Parchment should get 15 targets a game at KU.

Charlie Kolar, Iowa State

Wanna drive Big 12 defensive coordinators crazy? Ask them about trying to cover Kolar.

Jack Anderson, Texas Tech

Start with Humphrey and then draw names out of a helmet, honestly.

Wyatt Hubert, Kansas State

Darius Stills, West Virginia

JaQuan Bailey, Iowa State

The Sooners’ Ronnie Perkins would get consideration were he not suspended for the first five games of the upcoming season.

Three triple-digit tacklers from a year ago. OSU’s Amen Ogbongbemiga is a fourth. He narrowly misses the cut.

Anthony Johnson, Iowa State

A leap of faith here on Brown, assuming Grinch’s defense is ready to take the ball twice as much as it did a year ago.

Iowa State safety Greg Eisworth is my nickel.

Austin McNamara, Texas Tech

Joshua Youngblood, K-State

Watch now: Thurman Thomas among former Cowboys interested in showing Mike Gundy, OSU a better way

A look at OSU running back Chuba Hubbard’s career so far

Chuba Hubbard in 2019

Oklahoma State Cowboys running back Chuba Hubbard (30) carries the ball up the middle against against the Texas A&M Aggies during the fourth quarter of the 2019 Texas Bowl at NRG Stadium in Houston, TX, Dec 27, 2019. ERIK WILLIAMS/for the Tulsa World

Chuba Hubbard in 2019

Oklahoma State Cowboys running back Chuba Hubbard (30) looks to block Texas A&M Aggies defensive back Demani Richardson (26) while carrying the ball during the second quarter of the 2019 Texas Bowl at NRG Stadium in Houston, TX, Dec 27, 2019. ERIK WILLIAMS/for the Tulsa World

Chuba Hubbard in 2019

Oklahoma State’s Chuba Hubbard (right) was named to the Preseason Walter Camp 2020 All-American first team. ERIK WILLIAMS/for the Tulsa World, file

Chuba Hubbard in 2019

Oklahoma State’s Chuba Hubbard (left) tries to avoid Oklahoma’s DaShaun White during the bedlam football game in Stillwater, Okla., on Saturday, November 30, 2019. MATT BARNARD/Tulsa World

Chuba Hubbard in 2019

Chuba Hubbard breaks free for a touchdown during Oklahoma State’s football game vs. TCU on Nov. 2, 2019 at Boone Pickens Stadium in Stillwater, Oklahoma. DEVIN LAWRENCE WILBUR/For the Tulsa World

Chuba Hubbard in 2019

Oklahoma State’s Chuba Hubbard (30) carries the ball during the second quarter of an NCAA college football game against West Virginia in Morgantown, W.Va., on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2019. (AP Photo/Chris Jackson)

Chuba Hubbard in 2019

Oklahoma State’s Chuba Hubbard (30) runs with the ball during the first half of the NCAA college football game against Texas Tech, Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019, in Lubbock, Texas. (AP Photo/Brad Tollefson)

Chuba Hubbard in 2019

Oklahoma State running back Chuba Hubbard blows a kiss to the Oklahoma State fans after their 34-27 win over Iowa State after an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 26, 2019, in Ames, Iowa. (AP Photo/Matthew Putney)

Chuba Hubbard in 2019

Oklahoma State’s Chuba Hubbard (left) and Hunter Anthony (right) celebrate a touchdown against Kansas’ during a football game in Stillwater, Okla., on Saturday, November 16, 2019. MATT BARNARD/Tulsa World

Chuba Hubbard in 2019

Oklahoma State’s Chuba Hubbard (left) is hit by Baylor’s JT Woods (right) during a football game in Stillwater, Okla., on Saturday, October 19, 2019. MATT BARNARD/Tulsa World

Chuba Hubbard in 2019

Oklahoma State’s Chuba Hubbard warms up against Baylor during a football game in Stillwater, Okla., on Saturday, October 19, 2019. MATT BARNARD/Tulsa World

Chuba Hubbard in 2019

Chuba Hubbard celebrates with teammates after scoring a touchdown during Oklahoma State’s football game vs. No. 24 Kansas State in Stillwater, Oklahoma at Boone Pickens Stadium, on September 28, 2019. DEVIN LAWRENCE WILBUR/For the Tulsa World

Chuba Hubbard in 2019

Oklahoma State’s Chuba Hubbard (center) is brought down just short of the goal line by Texas defenders during a football game in Austin, Texas, on Saturday, September 21, 2019. MATT BARNARD/Tulsa World

Chuba Hubbard in 2019

Oklahoma State Cowboys running back Chuba Hubbard (30) stiff arms Tulsa Golden Hurricane safety Cristian Williams (3) during the NCAA football between the Oklahoma State Cowboys and the Tulsa Golden Hurricane at Skelly Field at H.A. Chapman Stadium in Tulsa, Okla. on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019. IAN MAULE/Tulsa World

Chuba Hubbard in 2019

Oklahoma State’s Chuba Hubbard (left) runs downfield against McNeese State at a football game in Stillwater, Okla., on Saturday, September 7, 2019. MATT BARNARD/Tulsa World

Chuba Hubbard in 2019

Oklahoma State Cowboys running back Chuba Hubbard (30) poses for a portrait during the Oklahoma State Football media day in Stillwater on August 3, 2019. Tulsa World File photo

Chuba Hubbard in 2019

Oklahoma State Cowboys running back Chuba Hubbard (30) runs the ball during Oklahoma State’s Spring Weekend at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, Okla. on Saturday, April 20, 2019. IAN MAULE/Tulsa World

Chuba Hubbard in 2019

Running back Chuba Hubbard makes a catch at football practice during Oklahoma State’s first day of fall camp at the Sherman E. Smith training center in April 2019. DEVIN LAWRENCE WILBER/For the Tulsa WOrld

Chuba Hubbard in 2018

Oklahoma State’s Chuba Hubbard raises his arms as he scores a touchdown during a football game against Missouri State at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, Okla., on Thursday, August 30, 2018. MATT BARNARD/Tulsa World

Chuba Hubbard in 2018

Oklahoma State Cowboys running back Chuba Hubbard (30) runs through an attempted tackle by Boise State Broncos safety DeAndre Pierce (4) during the NCAA football between the Boise State Broncos and the Oklahoma State Cowboys at Boone Pickens Stadium in Stillwater, Okla. on Saturday, September 15, 2018. IAN MAULE/Tulsa World

Chuba Hubbard in 2018

Oklahoma State’s Chuba Hubbard (bottom) is brought down by Iowa State’s Will McDonald during a football game at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, Okla., on Saturday, October 6, 2018. MATT BARNARD/Tulsa World

Chuba Hubbard in 2018

Oklahoma State’s Chuba Hubbard (center)heads downfield against Texas during a football game in Stillwater, Okla., on Saturday, October 27, 2018. MATT BARNARD/Tulsa World

Chuba Hubbard in 2018

Oklahoma State’s Chuba Hubbard (center) runs downfield under pressure from Oklahoma’s Curtis Bolton (right) at the Bedlam football game in Norman, Okla., on Saturday, November 10, 2018. MATT BARNARD/Tulsa World

Chuba Hubbard in 2018

Oklahoma State’s Chuba Hubbard runs past a pack of West Virginia defenders including Dravon Askew-Henry (right) during a football game at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, Okla., on Saturday, November 17, 2018. MATT BARNARD/Tulsa World

Chuba Hubbard in 2018

Oklahoma State running back Chuba Hubbard runs breaks away from Missouri linebacker Cale Garrett during the first half of the Liberty Bowl NCAA college football game in Memphis, Tenn., Monday, Dec. 31, 2018. JOE RONDONE/The Commercial Appeal via AP

Chuba Hubbard in 2017

Running Back, Chuba Hubbard, 30, runs a pass during a drill at Oklahoma State’s first practice at the Sherman E. Smith practice center in Stillwater on Sunday July 30, 2017. Tulsa World file

Chuba Hubbard in 2017

Oklahoma State’s Chuba Hubbard warms up against Texas Christian during a football game at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, Okla., on Saturday, September 23, 2017. MATT BARNARD/Tulsa World

Chuba Hubbard in 2017

Justice Hill (left) and Chuba Hubbard sign autographs during Fan Appreciation Day at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, Okla., on Saturday, August 4, 2018. MATT BARNARD/Tulsa World

Video: Eric Bailey and Guerin Emig break down Bedlam

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gadgetsrevv · 6 years ago

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Man Utd’s Dan James to continue scoring form tonight, Ronaldo hat-trick and England to thrash Bulgaria in packed international week – The Sun

THE international break gets a bad rep for being a bit dull – but we’re having none of it.

All of the Home Nations are in action during a packed international schedule and SunSport have put together their best bets including England vs Bulgaria and Wales vs Azerbaijan.

Dan James has been in sparkling form since joining United – and is 15/8 to score again in Welsh coloursCredit: Getty Images – Getty

Wales v Azerbaijan – TONIGHT, 7.45pm

IT’S a little bit early to be talking about must-win games.

But this is a must win game. Sorry Welsh fans.

Ryan Giggs‘ side have got off to a shocker in Group E, losing two of their opening three matches against Hungary and Croatia.

So who better to face when you need a win than the group whipping boys Azerbaijan?

It’s three defeats from three for the visitors, who have conceded ten goals in that time – including FIVE last time against Slovakia.

That’s the same Slovakia that the Welsh beat here back in March.

Talking of that game, we need to take a good look at young Dan James.

The Man Utd winger announced himself on the international stage with the winner in that match – and we’re backing him to continue his recent excellent Premier League goalscoring form here.

Dan James has made a scintillating start to his Manchester United careerCredit: AFP

Giggs needs a win and a comprehensive one at that.

But here’s the interesting bit – despite losing every game, Azerbaijan have scored in each of their three qualifiers so far.

They’ve racked up 25 shots despite being dominated possession wise and managed to take the lead away against Croatia despite being 33/1 underdogs.

Football is a funny old game and the 33/20 on both teams to score is WAY too high – you’d be daft not to have a nibble at that price.

Wales’ defence may have been decent so far in qualifying, but with free agent Ashley Williams out it’s left to inexperienced trio Joe Rodon, Tom Lockyer and James Lawrence to provide the rear-guard action in central defence.

All the visitors need is for the ball to fall their way at a set-piece and you could be quids in – even if Gareth Bale and James run riot at the other end.

The home side to win and both teams to find the net is a whopping 3/1 and we’d recommended that’s where you head for the value.

Both teams to score: 33/20

Wales to win and BTTS: 3/1

Dan James to continue scoring streak: 15/8

Scotland v Russia, TONIGHT 7.45pm

IT’S the Scots in qualifying for a major tournament.

Let’s face it, anything could happen.

Russia arrive at Hampden as the higher-rated of the two sides and on the back of three straight win-to-nil’s in Euro qualifying.

That 3-0 horror show from Scotland against Kazakhstan feels like a long time ago, but this is a huge match as they look to reel in the second-placed visitors.

Belgium are streaking away at the top of Group I and seem to have it sewn up, so the battle is on for that other all-important qualifying spot.

Despite their issues on the road, in competitive games Scotland have made Hampden something of a fortress.

Steve Clarke will hope his side can pick up three points against RussiaCredit: Reuters

They last lost a qualifier here in 2015, when Germany turned them over 3-2.

We like the look of the draw – but the safer bet here is to play with the goals market in what could be an open, attacking affair north of the border.

Four of the last five Scotland matches here have seen three goals or more, whilst the free-scoring Russians have netted fifteen times in their opening four qualifiers.

If you’re nervy about the stalemate, take away the worry of picking sides and just stick to the over 2.5 goals market – and wait for the money to roll right in.

Over 2.5 goals at Hampden Park: 29/20

Russia and Scotland to draw: 2/1

England v Bulgaria, Saturday 5pm

SOUTHGATE’s men are heading to fortress Wembley.

In other words, this should be another qualifying procession for the Three Lions.

England were turned over by the Spanish here in the Nations League last year, but before that you’ve got to go back to 2014 for a competitive defeat at the Home of Football.

Bulgaria shouldn’t pose a threat to this record. Key word – shouldn’t.

The visitors have won just one of their last twelve internationals on the road and prop up Group A without a victory.

Gone are the days of banana skin ties in qualifying for England. It’s just at the tournament itself that things traditionally fall apart.

We’re confidently laying it on the line and reckon England win this at a canter.

Southgate‘s side don’t tend to be fast starters – in fact, they’ve not scored in the first 20 minutes of a match since stunning Spain in Seville last term.

Raheem Sterling bagged two goals in England’s win away in SevilleCredit: Reuters

Even in the five-goal demolitions of Czech Republic and Montenegro, it took England nearly half an hour to break their opponents down.

The Three Lions are a tiny 2/5 to be winning at half-time and full-time.

Leave that alone and instead pile on Southgate’s side to score in both halves at 8/15 – whilst it might be worth having a nibble on another home victory with five goals or more.

Raheem Sterling has turned himself into a Man City goal machine in the last two years and is now producing the goods consistently at international level.

Imagine just twelve months ago us recommending you back Sterling at odds on to score in an England game? But that’s what we’re doing.

England to score in both halves: 8/15

Three Lions to win and over 4.5 goals: 12/5

Raheem Sterling to score anytime: 10/11

Ronaldo special

IT’S only a few days since Virgil Van Dijk upstaged Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

The Liverpool centre-back beat both superstars to the Uefa Player of the Year gong – but Ronny might have something to say about that when Portugal face Serbia.

The Nations League winners have made a slow start to their Group B campaign and could only muster a 1-1 draw in the reverse fixture on home soil.

But a fired up Ronaldo is fresh from opening his Juventus account for the season in a terrific 4-3 Serie A win over Napoli.

He looked sharp as ever and it’s only a matter of time before he hits top gear in 2019/20.

If you’re looking for a small stake, big price reward, back CR7 to net an EIGHTH career hat-trick in Portugal colours.

Cristiano Ronaldo to score a hat-trick against Serbia: 20/1

*All odds correct at time of publication.

Ronaldo bagged a hat-trick to land Portugal the Nations League crown back in JuneCredit: PA:Empics Sport

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auburnfamilynews · 6 years ago

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It’s the middle of summer here on the Plains and just one week before Auburn opens fall camp. The Tigers will have five days of practice beginning Monday August 5th before taking a break. There will be 14 days of grueling under-the-summer-sun practices before closing out August 18th. There are always questions heading into fall camp, and this year none will be bigger than …

Who will be named starting quarterback?

Will it be redshirt freshman Joey Gatewood or true freshman Bo Nix? My guess is Coach Malzahn will not make that announcement until right before the Tigers take on Oregon inside AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas on August 31st. On this, I hope I’m wrong but, going by Gus’ track record, it seems to be the most likely scenario.

Who will replace Darius Slayton?

No matter which quarterback gets the starting nod, he will need a good offensive line and go-to quality receivers. Auburn has five returning lineman, but who will be the QB’s favorite target in 2019? Last year’s go-to guy was Darius Slayton, who will be playing for the New York Giants this season after declaring early for the NFL Draft.

The Tigers have a lot of talent here, especially with the return of Eli Stove and Will Hastings from injuries. Other players to watch will be redshirt junior Marquis McClain and redshirt freshman Kolbi Fuqua, both 6-2 receivers who can climb the ladder.

However, sophomore Seth Williams has to be the leader of the pack. The offensive MVP of the A-Day game had a breakout year in 2018, catching 26 passes for 534 yards and five touchdowns.

Who will be the next H-back?

The graduated Chandler Cox was a four-year starter at H-back. While he only had three carries and 11 receptions for 93 yards and a touchdown, he was an important cog in the Malzahn offense, serving primarily as a run blocker.

Who are the prospects? Freshman tight ends Tyler Fromm and Luke Deal will be in the mix, and Harold Joiner could be moved from the tailback stable. But the likely heir apparent is John Samuel Shenker. The redshirt sophomore had three receptions for 40 yards and a touchdown in limited action in 2018.

Who will be the bellcow running back in 2019?

The Tigers have a talented stable of candidates that includes redshirt freshman Harold Joiner and newcomers D.J. Williams and Mark-Antony Richards. The three will be trying to impress new RB coach Carnell Williams to give them a shot.

That may be a big challenge with JaTarvious “Boobee” Whitlow, Kam Martin, and Shaun Shivers returning. Martin has been named to the Doak Campbell Award Watch List, Whitlow is one of eight Tigers placed on the preseason All-SEC team, and Shivers is a track star and home-run threat.

Judging from remarks made recently by Coach Williams, Auburn may not have a featured back in 2019. Williams says his philosophy is to rotate as many guys as possible to keep fresh legs in the backfield. That hearkens back to his days of sharing the load with fellow first-round draft pick Ronnie Brown.

If there is currently a duo on campus that can compare to the Williams/Brown tandem, then the Tigers will be great in shape this season. However, expect Kam Martin to be named the starter with Boobee Whitlow getting more touches and joining the 1,000 yard club by season’s end.

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oselatra · 8 years ago

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Beats, brass and blues: 2017 Fall Arts music preview

A preview of music in Central Arkansas this fall.

Thanks to a thoughtful group of musicians and venue owners, the Central Arkansas music scene continues to prove that it is as vibrant and many-faceted as scenes with far more acclaim, such as Athens, Ga.; Asheville, N.C.; and Portland, Ore. If that seems like hyperbole, consider the range of performances from Arkansas musicians lined up for this fall: jazz saxophonist Pharoah Sanders, a city orchestra performance of the music from "Harry Potter," the St. Mark Sanctuary Choir, "girl gang" Dazz & Brie & The Emotionalz, a performance of William Grant Still's opera "Troubled Island," piano performances in the middle of local libraries. Pair that lineup with some stellar musicmakers lured in from elsewhere, and you've got a few hundred good reasons to get out and do some listening this fall. Here are a few highlights:

For starters, the performance space at UA Pulaski Technical College (CHARTS, the Center for the Humanities and Arts), which is fewer than 10 minutes away from the River Market district, is home to a Sept. 21 performance from Jimmy "Duck" Holmes — cited as the last of the Bentonia bluesmen — for "Blues Trifecta," a concert featuring a talk from blues archivist Dick Waterman and a screening of Samuel D. Pollard's "Two Trains Runnin'." Or, go catch acoustic guitarist Andrew York at The Joint, who's here that same night as part of the Argenta Arts Acoustic Music Series, or the harmonizing duo The Secret Sisters at South on Main. On Sept. 22, pianist Tatiana Roitman Mann joins colleagues Kiril Laskarov and Andrey Dyachenko for "To Life," the next in Roitman Mann's "New Deal Salon" series at New Deal Gallery at 2003 S. Louisiana St. Also that evening, Opera in the Rock presents its rendition of William Grant Still and Langston Hughes' "Troubled Island" at the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center, the Dirty Dozen Brass Band performs at Arkansas Regional Innovation Hub for the 2017 ACANSA Arts Festival and none other than Raekwon the Chef of the Wu-Tang Clan drops into Revolution.

The commemoration of the 60th anniversary of the desegregation of Central High School continues Sept. 23, with a concert from Mavis Staples at Robinson Center Music Hall and the "No Tears Suite," an original jazz piece from Chris Parker inspired by Melba Patillo Beals' memoir, at Central. ACANSA continues with a gospel brunch featuring the St. Mark Sanctuary Choir at Wildwood Park for the Arts Sept. 24. Dazz & Brie and their dynamic vocalist Hope Dixon share a bill at South on Main on Sept. 27 as part of the venue's "Sessions" series; and catch guitarist John Burnette's dulcet, clever tunes from his debut album the next night at South on Main. Also Sept. 28: If you're in Spa City soaking up the last bits of autumn, don't miss Bruiser Queen, a knockout punk rock duo from St. Louis that's performing a free show at Maxine's that night. Nashville rockers Benchmarks return to the White Water Tavern (and unlike their Holiday Hangout appearance, you'll have a chance at a ticket!) with Colour Design Sept. 28, too. The Butler Center's Arkansas Sounds series is bringing Hot Club of Cowtown to town Sept. 29. Rapper-turned-YouTube-sensation Froggy Fresh (formerly Krispy Kreme) lands at Low Key Arts in Hot Springs Sept. 29, and it's early enough that you can catch Ronnie Heart channeling the late Prince at Maxine's later that evening. From Sept. 30-Oct.1, the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra opens its season with "Go Brahms," featuring guest violinist Jennifer Frautschi. Band of Horses lands at the Clear Channel Metroplex Oct. 4, followed the next night by a Contemporary Christian lineup at Verizon Arena (Skillet, Colton Dixon) and some honky-tonk at Revolution courtesy of the Randy Rogers Band.

On Oct. 6-7, the Hot Water Hills Festival springs up on Bathhouse Row's Hill Wheatley Plaza in Hot Springs, featuring sets from Itchy-O, Claire Morales, Vodi and more. Jason Aldean brings "Big Green Tractor" to Verizon Arena Oct. 13. The Akeem Kemp Band takes its rock-solid blues set to Kings Live Music in Conway on Oct. 14. Italian guitarist Beppe Gambetta gives a concert at The Joint Oct. 19; if the punk-blues of Fantastic Negrito's more your thing, catch him at South on Main that same night. Adam Faucett brings his ethereal howl to Kings Live Music on Oct. 20. Bruno Mars devotees gather en masse at Verizon Arena for the crooner's show Oct. 22. Fleetwood Mac fans: Lindsey Buckingham and Christine McVie are sharing a bill at Robinson Center Music Hall on Oct. 25, and on Oct. 28, Robinson hosts the 25th anniversary celebration of the Arkansas Black Hall of Fame, featuring performances from Little Rock native Pharoah Sanders, comedian Luenell and poet Haki Madhubuti. In Conway, Mountain Sprout takes the stage at Kings Live Music, also on Oct. 28. Lucinda Williams graces the stage at Pulaski Tech's CHARTs for Oxford American's "Books, Bourbon and Boogie" Nov. 2. The ASO's River Rhapsody Chamber Series turns its attention to "Spanish Dance" with works from Saint-Saens and Sarasate at the Clinton Presidential Center Nov. 7. Jeff Coleman tickles the ivories on a piano set up at the Sanders Library Nov. 16 in Sherwood as part of Central Arkansas Library System's "Sounds in the Stacks" series, and later that night, the "All-American Road Show" breezes through Verizon Arena, with Chris Stapleton, Marty Stuart and Brent Cobb. On Dec. 6, Bully, the ensemble project from producer/engineer Alicia Bognanno, lands at Stickyz. The piano-centric Bob Boyd Sounds gives a concert at the Ron Robinson Theater on Dec. 8.

Beats, brass and blues: 2017 Fall Arts music preview

#Beats #brass and blues: 2017 Fall Arts music preview

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junker-town · 8 years ago

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Alabama vs. Florida State will be decided by the passing game. Who’s that favor?

The biggest college football season opener of all time could be determined by a pretty simple question: who can pass?

Saturday night, No. 1 Alabama and No. 3 Florida State battle in Atlanta's new Mercedes-Benz monstrosity (8 p.m. ET, ABC). We've talked about this game all offseason, but in the context of magnitude and consequences. Is it the biggest season opener ever? What happens to the losing team's national title chances? Et cetera.

Now it's game week. It's time to talk about matchups.

From the perspective of blue-chip talent, it’s hard to top; both two-deeps feature countless former four- and five-star recruits.

1. Both teams, however, are doing some retooling in their passing games. And either might have the best secondary in the country.

Alabama’s Jalen Hurts and FSU’s Deondre Francois combined to throw for 6,130 yards and 43 touchdowns while going a staggering 24-4 as freshmen last fall.

But while Hurts’ No. 1 target, Calvin Ridley, returns, his next three do not. ArDarius Stewart and tight end O.J. Howard (combined: 99 catches, 1,423 yards, 10.3 yards per target) were his big-play threats, and slot main Gehrig Dieter caught four touchdowns.

It seems even worse for Francois. His top three wideouts — Travis Rudolph, Jesus Wilson, and Kermit Whitfield — are gone, as is star running back Dalvin Cook; they combined for 154 catches and 2,129 yards a year ago.

Contrast that with the opposing secondaries:

Alabama returns Minkah Fitzpatrick — one of the best cornerbacks, safeties, or nickel backs in the country, depending on where he lines up — along with junior safety Ronnie Harrison, cornerback Anthony Averett, and nickel Tony Brown.

FSU’s secondary improved dramatically down the stretch last fall as it adjusted to an injury to star safety Derwin James. Safeties Trey Marshall (suspended for the first half against Bama), A.J. Westbrook, and Ermon Lane came into their own, as did then-freshman corners Levonta Taylor and Kyle Meyers alongside ace Tarvarus McFadden. They are all back, and so is James.

In both my Alabama and FSU previews, I talked about dynamite secondaries and rebuilt receiving corps. And now those units are up against each other. Advantage: defenses.

Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images

Levonta Taylor (1)

Of course, the new leaders in each receiving corps have upside. This is Alabama and Florida State we’re talking about; every player does.

FSU juniors Nyqwan Murray and Auden Tate caught a combined 52 passes for 859 yards and 11 scores, and each came on strong, with 39 of their combined receptions in the last six games of the season, with three 100-yard receiving games between them. By the end of the year, they were scarier than any of the FSU upperclassmen.

Murray was quickly becoming a Francois favorite. He finished having caught 15 of 27 passes thrown at least 10 yards downfield; only Rudolph had more (24). He is listed at just 5’11, 176 pounds, but he is terrifying downfield.

2. FSU has a couple of known targets. Hurts gets Ridley back as a security blanket, but who can he look to downfield?

There could be churn on the Bama two-deep as an incredible crop of freshman receivers — Jerry Jeudy, DeVonta Smith, and Henry Ruggs III in particular — works to supplant upperclassmen who have yet to produce at a high level. Seniors Robert Foster and Cam Sims could start alongside Ridley on Saturday, and they look the part, but they combined for only 19 catches and 207 yards in 2016.

Hurts struggled more than Francois under pressure last season, and former offensive coordinator Lane Kiffin leaned on quick sideline passes to stress defenses horizontally. Hurts threw nearly twice as many passes behind the line of scrimmage as Francois did, and, by a decent margin, he threw more such passes than any other power conference QB.

Hurts was incredibly accurate on such passes. They were basically an extension of the run game. According to CFB Film Room, he completed just 42 percent of passes at least 10 yards downfield, with a 4 percent INT rate. Francois: 50 percent completion rate, 2 percent INT rate.

The more Hurts has to look downfield, the more it helps FSU.

3. But a lot of a team’s passing success is determined by how frequently it has to pass. Bama should be able to run a little.

You could make the case that FSU’s passing game might have more upside than Alabama’s, but the Tide also boast what might be their best offensive backfield yet under Nick Saban. And wow, is that saying something.

Even with scatback extraordinaire Josh Jacobs dealing with a nagging hamstring issue (he’s listed as questionable for Saturday), Bama still brings Damien Harris and Bo Scarbrough.

The junior duo combined for 1,849 yards (6.8 per carry), with Harris dominating in the regular season and Scarbrough going into beast mode down the stretch (last four games: 63 carries, 454 yards, six touchdowns). And if Jacobs is limited or out, then new offensive coordinator will be forced to give all-world freshman Najee Harris more touches. A darn shame.

FSU boasts a similar backfield. Blue-chip freshman: Cam Akers. Big junior with workhorse potential: Jacques Patrick. And the offensive lines probably offset; each has to replace an All-American left tackle (FSU’s Roderick Johnson, Bama’s Cam Robinson), and FSU’s line boasts 54 career starts to Bama’s 67.

The differences in my eyes:

Bama’s backs are more proven. While Patrick has shown plenty of potential, he took a backseat to Cook last year. We don’t know his ceiling (or when Akers will be ready to fulfill his potential).

Bama’s backs don’t have to go against the Bama defense. Alabama’s D ranked first in Rushing S&P+, while FSU ranked 31st. The Tide have more pieces to replace — ends Jonathan Allen and Dalvin Tomlinson, linebackers Reuben Foster, Ryan Anderson, and Tim Williams — and projected starter Raekwon Davis is dealing with a minor injury after taking a gunshot this past weekend. Still, they have linebacker Shaun Dion Hamilton, nose guard Da'Ron Payne, and a host of potential All-Americans. And Alabama hasn’t had a less-than-elite run defense since approximately 1922 (give or take). It’s hard to worry about the Tide holding up.

What Hurts lacks as a proven passer, he makes up for with his legs. Francois is a capable runner (6.6 yards per non-sack carry) but only rushed 5.7 times per game; Hurts rushed 11.5 times per game at a similar clip (6.2 per carry).

Hurts is a legitimate piece of the Bama run game. At least, he was under Kiffin. I’m assuming that will remain the case under new offensive coordinator Brian Daboll, but we won’t know for sure until we see it.

4. Francois is more likely to be capable of digging FSU out of passing-downs holes, but he might end up facing more of them, too.

That probably gives the edge to Bama.

Vegas says: Alabama -7

S&P+ says: Alabama by 7.9

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auburnfamilynews · 6 years ago

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Auburn basketball ended the season as the No.5 ranked team in the country. While that’s the best finish in program history the Tigers may be the only Final Four team not to be included in the top four of the final season poll. Duke, a team eliminated in the Elite Eight, received that honor.

While Duke came into the tourney ranked No.1 Auburn proved their worth by winning 12 consecutive games before losing a one point game on two controversial calls to eventual national champion Virginia. The two calls were almost universally condemned by everyone except the NCAA which has no accountability in place for officiating.

No team had a better run, defeating blue bloods Kansas, North Carolina, and Kentucky. However, the only perennial blue blood they didn’t have a chance to face was Duke, giving coaches cause to place the Blue Devils ahead of the Tigers.

Nevertheless, none of it can take away what this team has accomplished. They won the regular season SEC Championship in 2018 and were SEC Tournament Champions this year. Their 30 wins are the most in the history of the program. Against all odds they sliced their way through the NCAA Tournament to their first ever Final Four and proved they can compete with the elites of college basketball. And all the credit goes to Bruce Pearl who deserves to be National Coach of the Year.

What does the future look like without the graduating Bryce Brown and especially without Jarred Harper who is declaring for the NBA Draft? You can bet that Pearl will have someone to step up.

Of the two leaders, Harper will be the hardest to replace. The best point guard in Auburn history, he was the quarterback of the team. Barring a transfer, expect J’Von McCormick to fill that roll. He played really well this year when given the opportunity. Even with the loss of Bryce Brown and Jared Harper this team is set up to be successful in 2020.

*** All the excitement over the basketball team’s success, has taken attention away from other spring sports. The No.14 softball team is tied with Alabama for first place in the conference coming off a series win over Tennessee.

Auburn is led by junior third baseman Tannon Snow who may be the best player since Kasey Cooper suited up for the Tigers. Called, “A mainstay on defense,” by Coach Mickey Dean, she is also a big threat at the plate. On Monday she was named the SEC Player of the week after she hit .667 with six hits in nine at bats, three home runs, a triple and drove in eight runs while also scoring four. She has at least one hit in 17 of her last 21 games.

*** The baseball team is not fairing as well mainly due to injuries to the pitching staff. Three weeks ago, the Tigers were 18-2. After losing starter Davis Daniel and Jack Owens, the Tigers have now lost seven of the last 10 and sit at 23-10. Just as concerning is the bats have fallen off during that span.

Auburn used five pitchers in their 11-6 loss to Jacksonville State yesterday. The five hurlers allowed 10 hits and walked nine. And things could get even uglier (in SEC competition) if Owen and Daniel remain out of the rotation.

“I knew once we had a couple of starters down, that would call on a lot of these young players, especially pitchers, to do more,” Coach Butch Thompson said. “But … this is our team now and you should grow from it. I’m waiting for us to hit rock bottom and get it all out of our system and reset. I think that’s what I’m looking for more. There’s nowhere else to go.”

Auburn plays Texas A&M in a three-game series in College Station beginning Friday at 6:30 p.m.

*** Our hearts go out to Auburn gymnast Samantha Cerio who suffered multiple horrific injuries to both legs during an NCAA regional at LSU last week. Cerio, a senior, underwent a two and a half hour surgery to repair two dislocated kness and multiple torn ligaments. Auburn team doctor James Andrews did the surgery. The good news is that Coach Jeff Graba said it was an “extreme success” and she is expected to make a complete recovery. However, Samantha’s gymnastics career is over.

***

With the frenzy over Auburn’s run in March Madness, it’s almost hard to believe it’s time for A-Day. New running back coach Cadillac Williams is said to be pleased with his top two backs, especially with the now healthy Jatarvious “Boobee” Whitlow. Kam Martin has beefed up and should give the Tigers a one-two punch out of the backfield.

Yet, the biggest news coming out of the Plains is about the offensive line. I’m hearing the veterans Prince Tega Wanogho, Mike Horton, Kaleb Kim, Jack Driscoll, and Marquel Harrell are looking strong. If that holds true it has to be good news for whomever becomes the starting QB in 2019.

Speaking of which, Redshirt Sophomore Joey Gatewood appears to be in the lead for the race at quarterback. However, if you look at recent A-Day’s the eventual starter has not been No.1 in the spring.

In addition to the A-Day scrimmage, the school has a full slate of events scheduled including an Auburn Legends flag football game led by captains Jason Campbell and Ronnie Brown. Gates will open at 1 p.m. with kickoff at 3 pm.

See ya there!

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auburnfamilynews · 8 years ago

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Fans outside the stadium, the official Jordan-Hare time is...

Two weeks from today we’ll be getting ready for the opener of the 2017 season as Auburn gets ready to meet Georgia Southern. It’s coming quickly, folks. Get ready.

1993 - Auburn 14, Vanderbilt 10

Auburn was in the midst of an undefeated season, but hadn’t really been tested yet. The Tigers were 4-0 heading to Nashville to take on a Commodore team that had won only against Wake Forest. Meanwhile, Auburn hadn’t faced a team with a winning record. That didn’t mean this game wouldn’t be difficult.

The Tigers got up 14-10 as the third quarter ended, but the Commodores were inside the Auburn 10-yard line with roughly thirteen minutes to play. Vandy coach Gerry DiNardo decided to go for it, and the Tiger defense stood tall.

The stop led Auburn to its fifth win of the year, and the Tigers would run the table to go 11-0 in Terry Bowden’s first season.

1958 - Auburn 14, Alabama 8

The Tigers were in the midst of their longest winning streak ever over Alabama -- four games — entering the 1958 season. As defending national champions, Auburn ran out to an 8-0-1 record before the Iron Bowl, with the only blemish coming in a tie against Georgia Tech in Atlanta in the first month of the season.

One year earlier, Auburn had blanked Alabama 40-0 to finish off a perfect year and claim the AP national title, but the Tide had made a big coaching change that offseason, bringing in former player and current Texas A&M coach Bear Bryant.

Alabama was vastly improved, but wouldn’t have quite enough yet to hang with a powerful Auburn team in Bryant’s first year. The Tigers opened up a 14-0 lead and hung on as Bama scored a late touchdown and then couldn’t convert an onside kick.

Auburn finished the year undefeated, but the lone tie and the fact that they didn’t play in a bowl game prevented the Tigers from repeating as national champions. Instead, LSU took the title along with Iowa, as the Bayou Bengals and Billy Cannon finished 10-0 on the year.

14 Years Ago - 2003

If ever there was a year where the expectations blew through the roof, it was 2003. After finishing 2002 on a tear, beating three top ten teams, including Alabama and Penn State, and nearly unseating Georgia as well, Auburn had all the hype in the world.

Jason Campbell had become an efficient quarterback, capable of hitting the big play when necessary, and he was joined in the backfield by two potential All-Americans in Cadillac Williams and Ronnie Brown. Throw in the fact that Auburn had some incredible talent on defense — Karlos Dansby, Dontarrious Thomas, and Carlos Rogers — and it was a perfect recipe for a team destined for greatness.

Leading up to that year, one publication visited the Tiger practice and wrote “they look like an NFL team out there,” while the Sporting News picked Auburn #1 and said that they’d meet Oklahoma in the Sugar Bowl for the national championship. I remember talking to my dad and pondering the possibility of going ahead and purchasing tickets for the BCS title game. We all knew Auburn would be in it. There was no doubt.

Except nobody really considered the loss of Bobby Petrino. He’d gone to be the head coach at Louisville, and it would be a loss that no one else on Auburn’s staff could fill. Instead, Tuberville promoted Hugh Nall (offensive line) and Steve Ensminger (quarterbacks) to be co-coordinators and to run Petrino’s offense. Great! Continuity! National championship, here we come.

Auburn opened the year with USC at home in the return game for the Tigers’ trip to LA the previous season. USC had lost Carson Palmer, Troy Polamalu, and a ton of other talent. They’d be starting some kid named Matt Leinart and nobody had any illusions that they’d be competitive on the Plains.

I was there. August 30, 2003. It’s the reason that I’ve been taught not to EVER EXPECT THAT ANYTHING GOOD WILL HAPPEN.

A few months earlier, in May, Auburn’s beloved radio announcer Jim Fyffe had passed away. In his place now was Rod Bramblett, former baseball play-by-play man, and the seemingly easy choice to fill the booth. To honor Fyffe, the mic man got up before the game on the field and said “When Auburn scores the first touchdown of the day, I want this side to yell ‘Touchdown!’ and I want this side to yell ‘Auburn!’”

It was going to be great. My dad and I were on the “Touchdown” side, and we practiced with great gusto before the inevitable rout of the Western visitors. They wouldn’t be able to handle the humidity or the 22 NFL starters that Auburn had in orange and blue.

Auburn’s first snap went backward as Cadillac got stuffed behind the line. Okay, no problem.

Then Jason Campbell’s first pass was tipped and picked off. Seconds later, Matt Leinart’s first college pass attempt went for a touchdown right in front of the students. Something was terribly wrong.

I sat there and watched Auburn struggle on offense as USC bebopped its way right down the field. They only notched 23 points (which would be low for them in coming years), but they would’ve been fine kneeling the ball after their first score. They shut Auburn out 23-0. The car ride back was a daze. We listened to the disbelief on the postgame radio show. None of the players and coaches could fathom what had happened. Auburn’s ranking — gone.

In the days following, we heard that USC had used slants to jam up Auburn’s defensive line. The coaches spoke of it as if it was some secret weapon that the Trojans had invented and employed for the first time ever. As a kid, I wasn’t totally aware that slants were in fact PRETTY COMMON.

The next week, they’d travel to Georgia Tech. This was a sure win... like Chan Gailey and Reggie Ball, whoever that was, could pose a threat to an angry Auburn team.

Well, they did. A 17-3 Yellow Jacket win later, Auburn was 0-2 and had scored three points combined in its first two games. Something was terribly wrong. The awful incompetence was astounding. Auburn couldn’t get out of its own way.

Finally, the Tigers got to play someone that would basically lay down and die. The Tigers scored their first touchdown of the year against Vanderbilt in week three, winning 45-7 and at least getting something right. Then they blasted Western Kentucky 48-3, but I knew it would all come crashing down again when #7 Tennessee visited Jordan-Hare the following Saturday night.

Tennessee boasted Casey Clausen and a slew of athletic receivers, plus a great linebacker corps that would make Auburn’s running attack work much harder to gain yardage.

Despite the 2-2 record, fans showed up in full force on the Plains. A filled Jordan-Hare with Ron Franklin on ESPN’s broadcast made it hard to look away. Over the first few weeks, the Tigers’ run game hadn’t been churning the way it had been, and we found out why Cadillac in particular was having a tough time. He was tentative.

After breaking his leg the year before, he wasn’t totally sure in its sturdiness. After taking a hit against WKU right on the spot where it broke, he regained his confidence and decided to run hard.

Against Tennessee, he ran 36 times for 185 yards and a touchdown as the Tigers got up 28-7 before holding off a furious rally by the Vols. A Carlos Rogers interception sealed the deal in the final minute and the Tigers got the kind of win we expected once the season started.

There was no rest for the weary, however. Auburn had to travel to Fayetteville for an 11 AM game with Tuberville’s personal nemesis, the Arkansas Razorbacks. After routing Texas and beating Alabama, the Hogs were ranked 7th now, making it the Tigers’ second straight game against a team ranked in that spot.

Again, Cadillac ran wild, going for 150 yards and the game’s only touchdown, and Karlos Dansby notched a key sack at the end to finish off the Razorbacks as Auburn won 10-3. Now they were 4-2 and looking like the team we expected.

The next week, sitting at 4-2, Auburn hosted Mississippi State in what would turn out to Jackie Sherrill’s last Starkville squad. This was Cadillac’s true coming-out party at the midpoint of the year.

Cadillac ran for 161 yards and six touchdowns (five in the first half) as Auburn blew out the Bulldogs 45-13. Junior college transfer Brandon Jacobs also rumbled for 182 yards on the day, finally breaking out in his first extended action of the year.

Things were looking good up until the trip to Baton Rouge. Nick Saban’s fourth team at LSU turned out to be pretty salty, but they hadn’t really turned it on to that point yet. They’d beaten Georgia early in the season, but lost to Ron Zook and Florida in a pretty uncompetitive game before Auburn came in.

LSU quarterback Matt Mauck completed a 64-yard touchdown to Devery Henderson just two minutes in, and the rout was on. Two touchdowns later and Auburn trailed 21-0 in the first quarter. Auburn finally got on the board with an Anthony Mix touchdown catch late in the game, but it had been over for a while. Auburn headed back home at 5-3 with a 31-7 loss.

Auburn roughed up Louisiana-Monroe the next week 73-7, and got back in to winning ways before Ole Miss and senior Eli Manning came to visit Jordan-Hare. This was a game that Auburn could definitely win, and may push the season to be deemed a success if they could upset the 20th-ranked Rebels.

The Tigers led 10-7 after one quarter, then trailed 14-10 at halftime before a tipped catch-and-run for 68 yards by Ben Obomanu gave them a 17-14 lead in the third quarter. After Ole Miss tied the game, Auburn kicker Phillip Yost booted a short kick to give the Tigers a 20-17 lead.

Eli Manning drove the Rebels down the field and they scored the go-ahead touchdown with a little over two minutes to play. Down 24-20, Auburn needed something. Again, Obomanu acted the hero, taking a short dump pass and weaving deep into Rebel territory. Auburn found itself at the Ole Miss ten, and a few plays later threw into the endzone.

By God, I won’t even show you the video. You know what happened next. Ben Obomanu, the only reason Auburn was even in position to score, dropped the ball. Campbell hit him right in the numbers, and he inexplicably leapt to try and make the catch. He just sort of swatted the ball into the ground instead and fell to his knees in agony. On the ensuing fourth down play, Auburn tried the same rollout pass, but it was defended much better.

Ole Miss won 24-20. In the postgame interview room, a teary Obomanu came in, still wearing his uniform, and answered every question asked of him. It took real guts to do that, but that loss numbed me like few have since. I remember sitting at dinner after that staring at the menu, blindly replaying the drop in my head.

Next up was a trip to Athens that more resembled the games against USC and LSU earlier in the year. Auburn put up zero fight and lost 26-7. Sitting at 6-5, far from where they’d expected to be at this point, the only thing that could salvage any excitement was a win in the Iron Bowl. We still had a lot to get through first.

We had to get through Jetgate. Auburn officials took booster Bobby Lowder’s private plane to fly to Louisville in an attempt to woo Bobby Petrino to replace Tuberville after the season. To be fair, the expectations set and the season Auburn had warranted a firing. It really did. And the only reason Tuberville got to stay is because the entire thing blew up in Auburn’s face. That news all came out a couple of days after the Iron Bowl, but it was still embarrassing.

Tuberville had managed to save face a bit, in large part, by beating Alabama. How did that happen, you ask? Well, it gave us one of the most famous plays in recent Auburn history.

Auburn won a weird Iron Bowl 28-23, with Cadillac rushing for two scores and in excess of 200 yards. If Auburn had lost that Iron Bowl and finished 6-6 on the year where they were supposed to win the national title, Tuberville would’ve been fired. After the win, he gained a sympathy from Auburn fans because of the administrations back-alley dealing, but a loss to Mike Shula and the 4-7 Tide wouldn’t have gotten him any help.

Jetgate afforded Tuberville another year, at the very least, and he’d make the most of it. After Auburn beat Wisconsin in the Music City Bowl, things looked up for the Tigers as they headed into 2004. With a senior-laden team, it could only get better, right?

Coming Next: Undefeated but Still Sitting at Home

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