Sports Buzz

Tag: ESPN – English

  • Pat McAfee blesses NFL's latest ambitious move: 'I like the idea'

    Pat McAfee blesses NFL's latest ambitious move: 'I like the idea'

    The NFL‘s global ambitions continue to take shape, and one of the sport’s most prominent media voices is fully on board.

    Former NFL punter and current ESPN host Pat McAfee has endorsed the league’s newest expansion efforts, including the potential for a regular-season game in Abu Dhabi, a move that would mark a historic first for American football in the Middle East.

    The announcement came as the NFL revealed two new participants in its Global Markets Program – Greece and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

    As part of the initiative, teams are granted marketing and engagement rights in designated countries, helping grow the league’s presence worldwide.

    NFL executive vice president Peter O’Reilly confirmed that conversations are underway regarding a game in Abu Dhabi.

    “We don’t know the timing, and it’s really an ‘if’ in terms of whether we’ll play a game,” O’Reilly explained.

    “But I will say that’s a market where there’s strong interest in our game, strong interest in growing our game on a year-round basis.”

    Speaking on The Pat McAfee Show, the charismatic broadcaster emphasized the broader value of international expansion beyond just football.

    “I want to be on the side of I think it’s good to help countries and everything evolve. I think it’s a good thing. I like the thought of sport bringing the world together because, ultimately, that’s what I think sports are about,” McAfee said.

    “And if the NFL is able to take their game over there, I think it’s good for the world as a whole. Good for the league.”

    NFL sets stage for record-setting international season in 2025

    The league has already confirmed seven regular-season games outside the United States for the 2025 season. These games will span five countries, featuring marquee matchups in Brazil, Germany, Spain, Ireland, and the United Kingdom.

    Here are the confirmed host cities and teams:

    • So Paulo, Brazil (Corinthians Arena): Los Angeles Chargers
    • Berlin, Germany (Olympiastadion): Indianapolis Colts
    • Madrid, Spain (Bernabu Stadium): Miami Dolphins
    • Dublin, Ireland (Croke Park): Pittsburgh Steelers
    • London, UK: Wembley Stadium: Jacksonville Jaguars
    • London, UK, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium: Cleveland Browns, New York Jets

    While the visiting teams are yet to be announced, the NFL has confirmed that the Chargers will face their international opponent on Friday, September 5, marking the second game of the 2025 regular season.

    This growing international slate highlights the league’s commitment to becoming a global sport.

    If Abu Dhabi is added in the coming years, it could open the door to an entirely new fanbase in the Middle East and set a precedent for other major American leagues.

    With Pat McAfee endorsing the move and international excitement building, the NFL’s next chapter may be written far beyond U.S. borders.



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  • Stanford coach Troy Taylor accused of bullying, belittling female staffers

    Stanford coach Troy Taylor accused of bullying, belittling female staffers

    Stanford football coach Troy Taylor mistreated female staff members and tried to have an NCAA compliance officer removed after she warned him of rules violations, according to documents obtained by ESPN from investigations into Taylor’s conduct.

    ESPN said more than 20 current and former staffers cooperated with the two investigations that included complaints against Taylor for what are described as hostile and aggressive behavior, as well as personal attacks.

    Marshawn Lynch defends his territory in the College GameDay show

    Both investigations determined that Taylor’s treatment of employees, particularly of women, was inconsistent with Stanford’s standards, according to ESPN.

    The second investigation concluded that Taylor retaliated against a compliance staffer who had found seven minor NCAA infractions by “seeking her removal from her assigned duties.”

    The report said investigators had never encountered “this palpable level of animosity and disdain” for a university compliance office, according to ESPN.

    Taylor signed a warning letter on Feb. 14, 2024, following the first investigation acknowledging he could be fired if the conduct continued, according to the documents obtained by ESPN. Additional complaints were documented in a second investigation that ended July 24, but Taylor remains on the job.

    “I willingly complied with the investigations, accepted the recommendations that came out of them, and used them as a learning opportunity to grow in leadership and how I interact with others,” Taylor said in a statement released by the school. “I look forward to continuing to work collaboratively and collegially with my colleagues so that we can achieve success for our football program together.”

    A statement from a university spokesperson said, “Stanford believes in upholding the highest standards of behavior in the workplace.”

    “The University received complaints regarding Coach Taylor and a third party investigated the matter thoroughly. Last summer, the University took appropriate measures, Coach Taylor received coaching, and he has committed to nurturing the respectful working environment that is essential to the success of all our athletics programs.”

    Taylor is entering his third year as Stanford coach after back-to-back 3-9 seasons.



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  • Pat McAfee roasts Dan Orlovsky on live TV

    Pat McAfee roasts Dan Orlovsky on live TV

    In a moment that left viewers both amused and surprised, former NFL punter and popular sports commentator Pat McAfee delivered a sharp critique of ESPN broadcaster Dan Orlovsky during a live episode of “The Pat McAfee Show.” The incident, which quickly garnered attention, revolved around McAfee’s seven-word remark about Orlovsky’s distinctive accent.

    During the live broadcast, McAfee, known for his candid and often humorous commentary, addressed Orlovsky’s recent performance and his unique accent. McAfee’s comment, “Dan Orlovsky’s accent is just hilarious,” became an instant talking point among fans and sports analysts. The light-hearted roast was delivered in McAfee’s signature style, blending humor with a touch of sarcasm.

    Let’s be great! Russel Wilson jokes with Pat McAfee about his work ethic

    Dan Orlovsky, a former NFL quarterback turned ESPN analyst, took the roast in stride. Known for his analytical insights and engaging personality, Orlovsky responded with good humor, acknowledging the playful nature of McAfee’s comment. “I guess my accent is just part of my charm,” Orlovsky quipped during a subsequent segment on ESPN.

    The reason behind the situation

    This isn’t the first time McAfee has made headlines for his outspoken remarks. His show, which airs on ESPN and ESPN+, is known for its unfiltered and entertaining discussions on sports and pop culture. McAfee’s ability to blend humor with insightful commentary has earned him a loyal following and made his show a must-watch for sports enthusiasts.

    Orlovsky, on the other hand, has been a prominent figure in sports broadcasting, providing in-depth analysis and commentary on NFL games. Despite the playful roast, Orlovsky’s expertise and contributions to sports media remain highly respected.

    The light-hearted exchange between Pat McAfee and Dan Orlovsky highlights the camaraderie and playful banter that often characterizes sports media. While McAfee’s roast may have caught viewers off guard, it also showcased the dynamic and entertaining nature of live sports commentary. As both McAfee and Orlovsky continue to engage audiences with their unique styles, fans can look forward to more memorable moments on their respective shows.



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  • ESPN analyst predicts Dallas Cowboys' shocking Super Bowl LX victory: It's the “best bet”

    ESPN analyst predicts Dallas Cowboys' shocking Super Bowl LX victory: It's the “best bet”

    The Dallas Cowboys haven’t won a Super Bowl in 30 years. In fact, the closest they’ve come to returning to the NFL’s big game has been the seven times they’ve lost in the Divisional Round. However, all that is about to change, or at least that’s what ESPN’s betting experts say.

    The Cowboys’ history has been one of disappointments over the past 30 years. Head coach Mike McCarthy managed three straight 12-5 seasons between 2021 and 2023 that did little to help the team, and last season they didn’t even advance to the postseason, finishing with a lackluster 7-10 record.

    The team’s future looks even grimmer. With quarterback Dak Prescott battling injuries, linebacker Micah Parsons alone on defense, and receiver CeeDee Lamb shouldering the weight of the receiver room, there’s no way the Cowboys will hoist the Vince Lombardi Trophy in 2026. Or is there?

    Enter the ESPN analysts

    Despite all the odds, analyst Joe Fortenbaugh is willing to bet that the team will win Super Bowl LX, but not for the reasons you might think. While the rest of us would bet on the team with the best odds, Fortenbaugh is part of a new breed of bettors who advocate the “value” of a bet.

    According to them, the best bet is not the one that gives you the least profit but is the safest, or the one that is the riskiest but gives you the biggest profit, but the one that has the best “value.” The concept is so vague that it has different meanings to different analysts.

    In Fortenbaugh’s case, the Cowboys are the “best bet,” even though their odds are +5000, meaning you’d win $5,000 on a $100 bet. But when it comes to longshots, the New York Giants offer $25,000 for a $100 bet.

    The best odds for next season, according to ESPN Bet Sportsbook, are on the Ravens, Chiefs, and defending champion Eagles. They all offer +650, meaning you’d win $650 for every $100 you bet. The payoff is lower, but so is the risk.

    Will the Cowboys Win Super Bowl LX?

    Fortenbaugh’s ESPN colleague Seth Walder is betting they will. However, after placing his bet, he declared, “Do I think the Cowboys are going to win the Super Bowl next year? I do not.” This makes the concept of “value” in betting even more confusing, but it is what it is.

    Fans of America’s Team might be confused, as might the rest of us mere mortals. But even if the Cowobys don’t win Super Bowl LX, the fans can take solace in the fact that their team is the “best bet,” whatever that means.



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  • Victor Wembanyama tries to cheat Skills Challenge system with ingenious idea that ultimately fails

    Victor Wembanyama tries to cheat Skills Challenge system with ingenious idea that ultimately fails

    Victor Wembanyama and Chris Paul had high hopes for claiming victory in the NBA All-Star Skills Challenge, but their strategy backfired spectacularly. The duo from the San Antonio Spurs was disqualified from the competition after attempting to skip the shooting requirements, leading to immediate backlash from fans in attendance.

    The controversy erupted when Wembanyama and Paul, instead of taking legitimate shot attempts at each designated station, simply tossed the balls from the racks without making a real effort to score. The crowd at the event quickly noticed their approach and responded with loud boos. Officials wasted no time in disqualifying them, bringing their challenge to an abrupt end.

    It was his idea! Victor Wembanyama explains why they throw away the balls during the Skills Challeng

    Understanding the Skills Challenge rules

    According to ESPN Research, the Skills Challenge requires players to complete shots from three different locations in sequential order. Participants must either make a shot to advance or take three valid attempts before moving on to the next station.

    By ignoring these requirements and trying to fast-track their way through the course, Wembanyama and Paul found themselves out of the competition almost as quickly as they had entered.

    Another tough loss for Chris Paul

    With this disqualification, Chris Paul has now competed in the Skills Challenge six times without a single win. According to ESPN Research, his six appearances are the most in history, double that of any other player besides Spurs legend Tony Parker.

    Meanwhile, the Cleveland duo of Evan Mobley and Donovan Mitchell capitalized on the situation, ultimately winning the competition after outpacing Golden State’s Moses Moody and Draymond Green in the final round. Mobley and Mitchell completed the course in just 1 minute, 0.3 seconds, securing the victory with their sharp shooting.

    Moody had performed well in the first round, but Green struggled with chest passes and three-point shots, failing to reach the final stations before the time expired. The rookie team of Zaccharie Risacher and Alex Sarr also fell short in the first round, missing the cutoff time by just 1.2 seconds.

    While Wembanyama’s first All-Star Weekend continues to generate headlines, his unconventional attempt to cheat the Skills Challenge system is a moment he and Paul would likely prefer to forget.



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  • Jason Kelce shares heartfelt words about Travis' growth as a leader for the Chiefs

    Jason Kelce shares heartfelt words about Travis' growth as a leader for the Chiefs

    Before the Kansas City Chiefs claimed a 23-14 victory over the Houston Texans in Saturday’s playoff game, Jason Kelce expressed his pride in his younger brother, Travis Kelce. During an ESPN segment, Jason reflected on Travis‘ evolution as both a player and a leader, describing the journey as a privilege to witness.

    Jason, who retired after a storied career with the Philadelphia Eagles, spoke candidly about the changes he has seen in Travis. From a young player full of energy and enthusiasm to a seasoned veteran who leads his team with confidence, Jason highlighted his brother’s transformation.

    Travis Kelce’s perfect wedding date for Taylor Swift

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    Jason Kelce admires Travis’ maturity and leadership

    “He’s such a competitor, and he’s surrounded by like-minded individuals who push him to be better,” Jason said. “Watching him grow from a wide-eyed rookie chasing his dreams to a composed and respected leader has been incredibly rewarding.”

    While Jason held back on speculating about Travis‘ future, particularly regarding retirement, he emphasized how much the Chiefs‘ tight end has embraced his leadership role within the team. “The way his teammates gravitate toward him shows the respect he’s earned,” Jason noted.

    With the Chiefs aiming to secure a historic third consecutive championship, Travis Kelce’s role as both a player and leader remains vital. Jason’s praise underscores the respect Travis commands not only within his team but also across the league.

    As Travis continues to focus on the Chiefs‘ Super Bowl ambitions, his brother’s touching tribute serves as a reminder of the legacy he is building both on and off the field.



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  • Pat McAfee promises a “BLAST” for College Football Playoff broadcasts

    Pat McAfee promises a “BLAST” for College Football Playoff broadcasts

    Pat McAfee is set to return for more College Football Playoff coverage, bringing his unique style to both semifinal games. After hosting an alternate “Field Pass” broadcast on ESPN2 during the Rose Bowl, McAfee confirmed his plans to reprise the format for the playoffs. “We’ll be doing our Field Pass for both College Football Playoff semifinals,” he announced on X. “We have a BLAST out there.”

    The “Field Pass” broadcast offers a laid-back, conversational approach to game commentary. McAfee, known for his energetic personality and unfiltered commentary, brings a distinctive flavor to sports broadcasting. However, while this style resonates with many fans, it has also sparked mixed reactions. During the Rose Bowl, some viewers accidentally tuned into McAfee’s stream instead of the main broadcast and were caught off guard by the tone.

    Pat McAfee brings the energy to College GameDay in Bloomington

    One fan expressed their frustration on ESPN’s Reddit page, saying, “I’ve heard ‘s***’ & ‘a**’ more in this Rose Bowl Broadcast than I hear in a week from my teenager! Is it that hard to show some decorum for the game’s most prestigious Bowl?” Another critic described the commentary as being akin to “listening to 12-year-old boys with the stupidest accent in America.“

    Related:

    McAfee’s commentary style returns for Semifinals

    Despite these criticisms, McAfee’s broadcasts have garnered a loyal following. Many fans appreciate his humor, enthusiasm, and willingness to break away from traditional sports commentary norms. Some even view his approach as a refreshing change that adds entertainment value to the games. However, technical hiccups during the Rose Bowl added to the confusion. ESPN2 initially aired the main feed before abruptly switching to McAfee’s stream during the first plays of the game, leaving some viewers frustrated.

    If the upcoming broadcasts run more smoothly, they could attract an even broader audience. McAfee’s ability to connect with fans and inject excitement into his coverage has made him a standout figure in sports media. While his unconventional style may not appeal to everyone, it undeniably offers an alternative experience for those looking for something different from traditional commentary.

    As McAfee and his crew gear up for their return, anticipation is building among fans who enjoy his take on college football. Whether you love or loathe his style, McAfee’s presence ensures that the College Football Playoff semifinals will be anything but ordinary.



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  • Jimmy Butler's agent blasts ESPN insider after reports indicate that he'll move to Phoenix

    Jimmy Butler's agent blasts ESPN insider after reports indicate that he'll move to Phoenix

    This is getting awkward. Just hours after a report that indicated that Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler would be open to a move to the Phoenix Suns, now other sources indicate that it is not true and you can say it’s a reliable report.

    Bernie Lee, the agent representing the NBA player, has publicly criticized ESPN insider Shams Charania for recent reports suggesting that Butler is considering approving a trade out west.

    LeBron James’ surprise appearance on podcast with Savannah James gets hilarious

    Charania’s report indicated that Butler was open to joining the Suns, along with other teams like the Dallas Mavericks, Houston Rockets, and Golden State Warriors. This information sent ripples through the NBA community, sparking speculation and excitement about Butler’s potential new home.

    Being surprised himself

    Bernie Lee swiftly took to social media to denounce Shams Charania’s report, labeling it as “fabricated” and demanding a retraction and apology. In a series of pointed tweets, Lee expressed his frustration, stating that the report was not only incorrect but also harmful to Butler and the teams mentioned.

    He emphasized that any legitimate news about Butler’s future would come directly from their camp and not through speculative reports. Lee’s strong response highlights the tension that can arise between players’ representatives and the media, especially when it comes to sensitive topics like potential trades and career moves.

    The incident also underscores the challenges journalists face in reporting accurate and timely information in the fast-paced world of professional sports. As the situation unfolds, fans and analysts are left wondering about the veracity of the initial reports and the true intentions of Butler and his team.



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  • Jason Kelce's bold take on the Cowboys shocks ESPN crew before MNF

    Jason Kelce's bold take on the Cowboys shocks ESPN crew before MNF

    Jason Kelce has quickly become one of the standout personalities on ESPN’s Monday Night Countdown, and his latest fiery comment certainly left an impact. As the Dallas Cowboys prepared for their Week 14 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals, Kelce’s blunt opinion about the Cowboys sent shockwaves through the studio.

    Before the game kicked off at AT&T Stadium,Kelce, along with fellow analysts Scott Van Pelt, Ryan Clark, and Marcus Spears, was on set offering his usual mix of analysis and entertainment. However, this time, it was his bold remark about the Cowboys that took center stage.

    Travis Kelce and Jason Kelce Christmas Video Song 2024: Watch the Full Animated Clip

    Kelce’s unfiltered opinion stuns the ESPN panel

    As the cameras showed a shot of the stadium in Arlington, Texas, Kelce didn’t hesitate to share his thoughts on the Cowboys, calling Dallas “the butthole in our pit of America.” The shocking comment immediately prompted gasps and loud reactions from his colleagues, with many shouting “Woah!” and “Hey, hey!” in disbelief. Kelce quickly reassured them, saying, “It was a joke,” but the damage had been done.

    Kelce’s deep-rooted rivalry with the Cowboys

    Kelce, who spent 13 seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles, has experienced the fierce rivalry between the Eagles and the Cowboys firsthand. The two teams are among the most storied franchises in the NFL, with no love lost between them. Kelce’s time in Philadelphia, which included winning the Super Bowl and earning six first-team All-Pro selections, shaped his disdain for the Cowboys, particularly under the leadership of Jerry Jones.

    His candidness on Monday Night Countdown shows that even in retirement, Kelce’s passion for his former team remains as strong as ever. Despite stepping away from playing in 2023, the beloved center is keeping his competitive edge alive in his new role as an ESPN analyst.

    Kelce’s impact on ESPN’s pregame show

    In just his first season with ESPN, Kelce has made a name for himself with his bold opinions and entertaining demeanor. His approach to analyzing NFL games, combined with his larger-than-life personality, has injected a fresh energy into Monday Night Countdown, earning him a dedicated following.

    As the Cowboys continue their playoff push this season, it’s clear that Jason Kelce won’t be pulling any punches when it comes to his views on America’s Team. His comment on the Cowboys proves that his fire and passion for the game are far from extinguished.



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  • Shannon Sharpe on Jets drama: 'Aaron Rodgers cost Robert Saleh his job'

    Shannon Sharpe on Jets drama: 'Aaron Rodgers cost Robert Saleh his job'

    TheNew York Jets find themselves once again at a crossroads, making headlines for reasons far beyond their win-loss column. Tuesday’s announcement of head coach Robert Saleh’s dismissalsent shockwaves through the NFL, marking yet another pivotal moment for a franchise that seems perpetually in search of stability. For many, the decision points to Jets owner Woody Johnson, who ultimately signed off on the change. But Shannon Sharpe, the Hall of Fame tight end and current sports commentator, has a different take on who’s truly responsible.

    On this morning’s episode of First Take, Sharpe didn’t mince words when discussing the coaching shake-up in New York. For him, the real catalyst behind Saleh’s departure isn’t ownership-it’s none other than Aaron Rodgers. The four-time MVP, according to Sharpe, has been a major source of turmoil behind the scenes, dating back to the offseason.

    Aaron Rodgers seems annoyed with coach Saleh’s comments

    “Aaron Rodgers undercut this man by not showing up to minicamp,” Sharpe asserted.“Saleh didn’t lose this team. Aaron Rodgers lost it for him. The moment Rodgers didn’t show up to mandatory practices, Saleh’s authority was gone. Guys in that locker room saw that and thought, ‘This is our leader? The guy we’re supposed to follow?’” Sharpe’s argument is that Rodgers’ absence set the tone for a rocky relationship between the quarterback and the coaching staff from the start.

    Rodgers, who has faced scrutiny in the past for his unconventional offseason habits, remained largely out of the public eye before the season kicked off. But his decision to skip key practices sent a message, intentional or not, that resonated poorly with the Jets’ roster.“It was like watching the beginning of the end,” Sharpe continued, emphasizing that the ripple effects of Rodgers’ offseason no-shows planted the seeds for Saleh’s eventual downfall.

    Sharpe didn’t stop there. “This is a bad look for Aaron Rodgers,” he added. “He doesn’t understand how damaging it is. Can you imagine Tom Brady, late in his career, getting a coach fired? Or Peyton Manning? That’s not leadership. That’s chaos.”

    Aaron Rodgers’ influence: Did his leadership failures cost Robert Saleh his job?

    The idea that a veteran quarterback like Rodgers could inadvertently-or perhaps intentionally-create an environment where a coach loses his job is a powerful indictment. Sharpe’s criticism struck at the heart of the perceived leadership vacuum that has plagued the Jets throughout the season. He questioned how someone who was supposed to uplift the franchise could instead become a disruptive force.

    The firing of Saleh brings with it a myriad of questions about the direction of the Jets. Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich will step in as interim head coach, while offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett, a close friend of Rodgers, remains on staff. Despite the offense’s struggles, Hackett has managed to avoid the same fate as Saleh, raising further eyebrows about the dynamics within the organization.

    Sharpe’s pointed remarks echoed the sentiment of many Jets fans who have watched the team stumble despite having a superstar quarterback at the helm. “The bad man,” as Rodgers is often called, has now become “more problems than he’s worth,” Sharpe remarked, referencing Rodgers’ famous nickname. The relationship between Rodgers and Saleh, he suggested, never fully clicked-and now, the Jets are left to pick up the pieces.

    While the Jets look to reset with Ulbrich in charge, the role Rodgers played in this coaching shift will remain a topic of debate. It’s hard to imagine that Rodgers wasn’t aware of the franchise’s direction, especially after reported conversations between him and Woody Johnson. Whether or not Rodgers explicitly lobbied for Saleh’s ouster, his influence on the team’s culture can’t be denied.

    For now, the Jets’ turbulent season continues, with Rodgers still at the center of the storm. As the franchise moves forward, the lingering question remains: Was the risk of bringing in Rodgers worth the fallout that followed?



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