Sports Buzz

Tag: NCAA

  • Ashton Jeanty's bold NFL combine decision leaves Cowboys in a tough spot

    Ashton Jeanty's bold NFL combine decision leaves Cowboys in a tough spot

    The Dallas Cowboys’ backfield situation is anything but settled, and with free agency looming, all eyes are on how the team will address its running game. While speculation has linked them to one of the most exciting prospects in college football, a surprising decision from the potential target has shifted the conversation.

    It’s no secret that the Cowboys have been scouting their options at running back. The position became a glaring concern last season, with an inconsistent committee approach that left plenty to be desired. While Rico Dowdle managed to top 1,000 yards, the team lacked a dominant playmaker in key moments. Now, as they evaluate their future at the position, one name has stood out in early draft projections.

    Roots for “Coach Prime”! Heisman Trophy runner up Ashton Jeanty thinks Sanders’ a great fit for Cowboys

    For months, Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty has been tied to Dallas as a potential first-round selection. A dynamic rusher with an impressive college rsum, Jeanty has been pegged as a possible long-term solution for the Cowboys’ ground game. And with his Texas roots, the fit seemed almost too perfect. However, just as scouts prepared for their first in-depth evaluation of him, Jeanty has thrown a wrench into the process.

    NFL insider Tom Pelissero reports that Jeanty has opted out of on-field workouts at this week’s NFL Combine, choosing instead to wait for Boise State’s Pro Day. While he will still go through medical evaluations and team interviews, the decision means teams-including the Cowboys-will have to wait longer to see him perform under official testing conditions.

    Jeanty put up Heisman-worthy numbers

    The move comes as a surprise, but it’s not necessarily a negative one. Jeanty’s production speaks for itself, with a staggering 2,601 rushing yards and 29 touchdowns last season alone. Some prospects use the combine to boost their stock, but for Jeanty, the risk of a poor performance might outweigh the reward.

    Of course, the question now is whether his draft stock will be impacted. He has openly expressed interest in playing for the Cowboys, even mentioning the team in a recent conversation with Jon Gruden. But Dallas, selecting at No. 12, faces plenty of uncertainty in the draft. If Jeanty is still available, will the Cowboys pull the trigger-or will their free-agency decisions force them to look elsewhere? With multiple holes to fill and a pivotal offseason ahead, there are no guarantees.



    Source link

  • Oklahoma Sooners guard takes a brutal hit to the face and loses multiple teeth after diving for a loose ball

    Oklahoma Sooners guard takes a brutal hit to the face and loses multiple teeth after diving for a loose ball

    The Oklahoma Sooners are known to be a powerhouse in college football and they also have a gritty basketball team that makes regular appearances in the NCAA Tournament.

    Currently, the OU hoops team is unranked which is why for the Sooners is really important to beat teams on the national rankings, and that’s exactly what happened Saturday as Oklahoma took down No. 21 Mississippi State 93-87, overcoming a five-game losing skid and reviving their hopes for March Madness.

    A brutal hit! Oklahoma Sooners guard loses multiple teeth after diving for a loose ball

    18 year-old frehsman Jeremiah Fears had 27 points and a career-high 10 assists, Jalon Moore scored 15 of his 18 points in the second half and Sam Godwin had 17 points and 10 rebounds for the Sooners (17-10, 4-10 Southeastern Conference).

    Guard loses his teeth diving for a loose ball

    The Sooners victory came at a cost, though. Redshirt senior guard Duke Miles exited the game against Mississippi State after losing multiple teeth. The player suffered the injury while diving for a loose ball with just over seven minutes left in the second half.

    Oklahoma University associate athletic trainer Seth Tisdale told the Sooners’ in-house radio network that Miles chipped two teeth. He had two points and one assist in 14 minutes prior to his departure. He then returned at the 1:44 mark. Talk about grit and determination.

    It was well worth it. Mississippi State (19-8, 7-7) marked the highest AP-ranked opponent the Sooners have beaten this season. OU posted three wins over teams ranked No. 24 at the time (Arizona, Michigan and Vanderbilt). It will definitely give Oklahoma a boost before the NCAA Tournament.

    OU won despite getting outrebounded by 11 (42-31) and finishing with 18 fewer field goal attempts (73-55). The Sooners shot .527 from the field to MSU’s .397, marking the fifth time in seven SEC home games that OU shot better than 50% from the floor.



    Source link

  • Arch Manning looks for new strategy as a starter as Texas shifts offensive focus

    Arch Manning looks for new strategy as a starter as Texas shifts offensive focus

    As the Texas Longhorns prepare for the upcoming season, all eyes are on running back CJ Baxter. After missing the entirety of last season due to a devastating knee injury, Baxter’s return is highly anticipated by fans and analysts alike. Known for his explosive speed and versatility, the 220-pound star is expected to bring a renewed vigor to the Longhorns’ offense and shift their strategy toward a more balanced attack.

    Baxter’s journey back to the field has been marked by rigorous rehabilitation and unwavering determination. His commitment to recovery has been nothing short of inspiring. “It’s been a tough road, but I’m ready to give it my all,” Baxter said in a recent interview. His resilience and hard work have not gone unnoticed, and his teammates are eager to have him back in action.

    Arch Manning’s viral throw leaves fans speechless and confused

    With Arch Manning stepping in as the starting quarterback, the Longhorns’ offense is set to gain a new dimension. Manning, a dual-threat quarterback with the ability to both pass and run, complements Baxter’s style perfectly. This combination could lead to a more dynamic and unpredictable offense, forcing defenses to prepare for both aerial and ground threats.

    The season prospects are interesting

    Baxter’s return is expected to bring a significant boost to the Longhorns’ running game, which struggled in his absence. His ability to break tackles, find gaps in the defense, and accelerate downfield makes him a formidable asset. Coupled with Manning’s versatility, the Longhorns could see a shift from a predominantly passing game to a more balanced attack.

    The anticipation is palpable as fans await the season opener. With Baxter’s return, the Texas Longhorns have the potential to recapture their lost charm and make a serious run for the championship. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on the dynamic duo of CJ Baxter and Arch Manning, eager to see how their partnership will shape the future of Texas football.

    In the words of Coach Steve Sarkisian, “Having CJ back is a game-changer. We’re excited to see what this season holds for us.” The Longhorns’ road to glory has just begun, and with Baxter’s comeback, it promises to be an exhilarating journey.



    Source link

  • Shedeur Sanders warned of NFL Draft disappointment as his stock keeps falling in the latest odds shake-up

    Shedeur Sanders warned of NFL Draft disappointment as his stock keeps falling in the latest odds shake-up

    The annual months-long football drought is in full effect, but key events like the NFL Combine and the start of free agency will shape the upcoming season and draft landscape. For Shedeur Sanders, the reigning Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year, the next few weeks could determine his draft position. After leading Colorado to a 9-4 season, Sanders was initially projected as a potential top three pick. However, as mock drafts evolve, his stock is becoming a major topic of debate. Tennessee appears to be locked in on Miami’s Cam Ward as the first overall pick, leaving quarterback-needy teams like the Browns, Giants, and Raiders scrambling for options because the Patriots and Jaguars already have their quarterbacks.

    The upcoming NFL Combine from February 27 to March 2, along with free agency beginning March 12, will provide clarity. If teams opt for veteran signal-callers like Sam Darnold, Russell Wilson, Aaron Rodgers or Justin Fields, Sanders’ position in the draft could shift significantly. His father, Deion Sanders, has been vocal about finding the right fit, initially dismissing franchises with shaky quarterback development histories. However, a recent social media interaction with Browns GM Andrew Berry suggests that stance may be softening.

    Sanders’ Draft Stock Faces Uncertainty

    For much of the pre-draft process, Sanders was widely considered the second-best quarterback prospect behind Ward. However, new reports suggest that perception is changing. ESPN’s Matt Miller noted that several scouts now see Ole Miss’ Jaxson Dart as a serious candidate for QB2 status, potentially pushing Sanders to third in the pecking order. “It seemed locked in that Ward was QB1 and Sanders was QB2, but the buzz surrounding Dart’s potential breakout at the combine is growing,” Miller explained.

    The scrutiny on Sanders has only intensified since Colorado’s season ended, with critics pointing to his tendency to hold onto the ball too long and his inconsistent deep passing. Since 2010, only three first-overall picks have not been quarterbacks, making it highly likely that a signal-caller will go first overall for the 40th time in history. If Sanders slips past the top three, he could find himself in a similar situation to Aaron Rodgers in 2005 – once considered a top pick, but ultimately falling to the back half of the first round (24th).

    The Combine Will Shift the Narrative

    The NFL Combine always has a way of reshaping draft narratives, and Sanders’ performance there could be crucial. While his athleticism and quick decision-making are undeniable, teams will want to see improvement in key areas, particularly his ability to process defensive schemes and handle pressure. Meanwhile, prospects like Dart and Dillon Gabriel could rise with impressive performances. It’s also a safe bet that one of the standout highlights from the Combine will be a signature deep pass from Sanders-something that happens almost every year. The coming weeks will determine whether his stock rebounds or continues to dip.

    Regardless of where he lands, one thing is certain: Sanders won’t be attending the NFL Draft in Green Bay. Instead, he’ll be celebrating his selection privately with family and close friends, following in the footsteps of his father. “I want to spend those moments with my people,” he said on his 2Legendary podcast. This decision further emphasizes his focus on controlling his own narrative, just as he has throughout his college career.



    Source link

  • Travis Hunter's draft stock in question as NFL teams debate his position and the quarterback market shifts

    Travis Hunter's draft stock in question as NFL teams debate his position and the quarterback market shifts

    Known for his rare ability to dominate at both cornerback and wide receiver, Travis Hunter was projected last week to go in the top five picks – if not first overall. But as the NFL Draft approaches, mock drafts are shifting, and true value assessments won’t be clear until after the NFL Combine on February 27 and the start of free agency on March 12. The quarterback market in free agency will play a significant role in how the top of the draft unfolds. Teams like the Titans, Browns, and Giants are in desperate need of a quarterback, and their decisions-whether through free agency or the draft-could push Hunter down the board. If teams opt for veteran options like Sam Darnold, Russell Wilson, Aaron Rodgers or Justin Fields, Hunter could still go early. However, top prospects Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders remain strong contenders, meaning Hunter may not hear his name called until the third pick or later.

    Hunter Faces Draft-Day Questions Amid Position Debate

    Despite his versatility, Hunter’s draft stock is slipping as teams begin to see him primarily as a cornerback rather than a dual-threat player. He is expected to showcase his skills at the Combine, where 329 prospects – including top quarterbacks like Cam Ward and pass-rushers like Abdul Carter – will compete for top draft positions. Hunter’s decision to attend as a cornerback suggests that teams will evaluate him primarily on that side of the ball. However, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him participate in receiving drills as well, given his 1,258 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns last season. While Hunter’s defensive skills are elite, the growing trend of prioritizing quarterbacks, offensive tackles, and pass rushers in the draft may push him further down the board than originally expected.

    Hunter’s case is unique in that he’s been labeled a two-way talent, a distinction shared only with Charles Woodson in 1997. However, NFL scouts have been hesitant to commit to Hunter as a top-five pick. Reports suggest that three quarterbacks, because of the needs, Abdul Carter, and an offensive lineman (Will Campbell) or wide receiver (Tetairoa McMillan) could make up the top five selections. Teams at the top of the draft are prioritizing offensive playmakers, such as Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty, over a defensive back-wideout hybrid like Hunter. No wide receiver has gone No. 1 overall since Keyshawn Johnson in 1996, and no cornerback has ever held that distinction.

    Even former Titans star Eddie George weighed in, saying, “It’s definitely important to have recognizable players – guys that fans know and like to root for. But you have to ask yourself, does it fill a need?”

    Despite his tremendous talent, Hunter’s draft position will ultimately depend on the team’s needs. He could easily be the first overall pick, but if a top team secures a quarterback in free agency, his stock could rise even higher. Historically, Heisman winners have been drafted early – only five in the last 15 seasons have fallen outside the top two picks. With his ability to impact the game in multiple ways, Hunter could soon join the elite list of Heisman winners taken at the top of the draft. But for now, his versatility seems to be working against him rather than in his favor.



    Source link

  • Arch Manning receives surprising description from his head coach after new starting job

    Arch Manning receives surprising description from his head coach after new starting job

    In the high-stakes world of college football, recruiting top talent often involves a whirlwind of challenges and complexities. However, Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian recently shared that his experience recruiting highly-touted quarterback Arch Manning has been a refreshingly “normal” process. Sarkisian’s comments came during an interview with FanDuel TV’s Kay Adams, where he opened up about handling the expectations surrounding Manning.

    Sarkisian, who has recruited numerous quarterbacks throughout his career, expressed his appreciation for the straightforward and smooth nature of the Manning family’s approach. “First of all, in the recruiting process, it was the most normal recruiting process,” Sarkisian said. “I’ve recruited a lot of quarterbacks in my time and had some great ones. They can be difficult, they can be tough, but with Arch it was so normal. Great family, great home life.”

    Arch Manning’s viral throw leaves fans speechless and confused

    As Arch Manning begins his journey with the Texas Longhorns, Sarkisian’s positive remarks underscore the potential for a successful partnership. The young quarterback’s humble and down-to-earth demeanor has already made a positive impression on his coach, setting the stage for a promising future.

    The Manning legacy

    Arch Manning, the latest in the illustrious Manning football dynasty, has been under the spotlight from a young age. With his grandfather Archie Manning and uncles Peyton and Eli Manning leaving indelible marks on the NFL, the expectations for Arch are understandably high. Despite this pressure, Sarkisian praised the Mannings for their grounded and supportive approach.

    In a landscape often dominated by hype and pressure, Arch Manning’s recruitment process stands out as a beacon of normalcy. Steve Sarkisian’s reflections offer a glimpse into the values that have shaped the Manning family and provide an encouraging outlook for Arch’s career at Texas.

    As fans eagerly await the next chapter in Arch Manning’s football journey, Sarkisian’s comments serve as a reminder that, sometimes, the most extraordinary talents come from the most ordinary beginnings.



    Source link

  • Shedeur Sanders has an innate Combine advantage that puts him in 'Prime' position for the NFL Draft

    Shedeur Sanders has an innate Combine advantage that puts him in 'Prime' position for the NFL Draft

    With roughly two months to go until the 2025 NFL Draft, teams are canvassing the field of top prospects, trying to find the best fits for their roster as they build toward Super Bowl contention. The best way to become a contender quickly in the NFL is to find a franchise quarterback — just ask the Washington Commanders, who drafted Jayden Daniels #2 overall in 2024 and watched him lead their team to the NFC Championship Game as a rookie.

    Whichever team opts to select Shedeur Sanders in April’s draft is hoping the former Colorado quarterback can engineer a similar turnaround — especially given his lineage. Shedeur, the son of Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee Deion Sanders — might have a leg up at the upcoming Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, an innate advantage unique to this year’s draft class.

    Shedeur discusses core Combine memory

    Speaking on his “2Legendary” podcast, Shedeur revealed his excitement at impressing scouts during the Combine, which begins Feb. 27. He remarked on a “core memory” he has of Deion talking about his own Combine experiences, which led to his selection as the #5 overall pick in the loaded 1989 draft.

    “Dad used to always bring the Combine gear home and he always used to make sure they put two, like my number, on there, quarterback centers, all that,” Shedeur recalled. “So, I was like, dang, I actually get my own now.”

    Having a familial bond with someone who is familiar with the rigors of the Scouting Combine could easily play to Shedeur’s advantage as he seeks to become the top quarterback drafted in 2025. A host of teams at the top of the draft — such as the Tennessee Titans, the Cleveland Browns, the New York Giants, and the Las Vegas Raiders — have been linked with the 22-year-old in recent months, and he has a genuine chance to be selected earlier than his dad, which would be a cool bit of NFL history.

    “Being able to when I even get that gear, because dad set the foundation and planted those seeds so many times,” Shedeur said. “For it to finally happen and for it to be my name and it’s a purpose, me being there. It’ll be extremely heartwarming.”



    Source link

  • Arch Manning's future hinges on Steve Sarkisian's bold move to stop Texas staff loss

    Arch Manning's future hinges on Steve Sarkisian's bold move to stop Texas staff loss

    The Texas Longhorns have come a long way from the struggles that once defined their program. A decade ago, their decline left many wondering whether they would ever reclaim their place among college football’s elite. The turnaround has been nothing short of dramatic, led by head coach Steve Sarkisian, who has orchestrated a return to national relevance.

    With back-to-back College Football Playoff appearances and a Big 12 championship under their belt, the Longhorns have reestablished themselves as a powerhouse. Their rise has not only produced record numbers of NFL combine invites but has also put their coaching staff in high demand. When a program experiences this level of success, other teams-both in college football and the NFL-come calling.

    Getting old sucks! Legendary Peyton Manning shares his feelings about post-retirement

    While Texas has already seen coaching departures, such as running backs coach Tashard Choice heading to the Detroit Lions, another potential loss nearly dealt a major blow to the program. A key figure within the Longhorns‘ infrastructure was reportedly at risk of leaving, which could have had serious implications for the team’s future success.

    Texas almost lost a key part of their staff

    According to Anwar Richardson of Orangebloods, Texas’ strength and conditioning coach Torre Becton was pursued for another opportunity. Many inside the program view Becton as a crucial piece of Texas’ resurgence, playing a significant role in the physical development of its players. Losing him could have disrupted the foundation Sarkisian has built over the past few years.

    Determined to prevent the potential setback, Sarkisian took swift action. The head coach secured a raise and an extension for Becton, ensuring that one of Texas’ most valuable assets remains in Austin. The decision reflects not just Becton’s importance but also Sarkisian’s commitment to maintaining stability within the program.

    With Becton staying put, Texas can now focus on what comes next-transitioning into the SEC with a roster full of emerging talent. WithArch Manning stepping into the spotlight and a fresh wave of players set to take on larger roles, Becton’s influence in the weight room could be the difference between another deep postseason run and falling short of expectations. Sarkisian’s ability to hold onto key staff members may prove just as critical as any game-winning play on the field.



    Source link

  • Shedeur Sanders can't seem to improve NFL Draft stock as front office execs make true feelings on him known

    Shedeur Sanders can't seem to improve NFL Draft stock as front office execs make true feelings on him known

    With the two-month mark nearing for how close we are to the 2025 NFL Draft, there is still a great deal of uncertainty about what will happen at the top of the draft. The Tennessee Titans hold the No. 1 overall pick. Although the team needs a quarterback due to Will Levis‘ inconsistent play, reports are that they’re not completely convinced on either of the top two quarterback prospects, Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders.

    It seems that the Cleveland Browns and New York Giants, two teams with a need at that same position, aren’t convinced either. Both Ward and Sanders were very productive in college, but they both have question marks in terms of decision-making (Ward) and physical limitations (Sanders). Sanders did his part during Super Bowl week to try to change some front office minds, making impressive media appearances and even meeting with some teams.

    Shedeur Sanders Reaction to Field Yates Latest Mock Draft Of Him And Cam Ward

    That apparently still wasn’t enough to dispel doubts about his abilities. In a recent article on ESPN in which NFL executives around the league were asked about Sanders, some of the quotes were concerning when it comes to how high he can realistically be drafted come April.

    • “Who’s the best quarterback? Shedeur’s not going No. 1” – NFC South coach
    • “The top guys in this class wouldn’t be in the top three from last year’s crop, in my opinion. Good debate on if they would be in the top five actually.” – national scout
    • “Not a year you’d be pumped about having a top-five pick.” – NFC South exec

    Will Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders be drafted later than expected?

    Of the seven executives polled on who the top quarterback in the class is, four voted for Ward and three picked Sanders. The national scout also says that both Ward and Sanders are similar prospects to Bo Nix, who was drafted 12th overall last year.

    Both quarterbacks likely won’t fall that far due to so many teams needing to take a stab at getting their franchise quarterback, but Ward and Sanders could possibly be waiting longer than expected on draft night.



    Source link

  • Olivia Dunne and Paul Skenes celebrate Valentine's Day like Demi Moore and Patrick Swayze in Ghost

    Olivia Dunne and Paul Skenes celebrate Valentine's Day like Demi Moore and Patrick Swayze in Ghost

    Paul Skenes and Olivia Dunne continue to captivate fans with their high-profile relationship and they once again caught all the eyes with their Valentine’s Day celebration, reminiscent of the famous Ghost movie, featuring Demi Moore and Patrick Swayze.

    As Skenes prepares for a big season on the mound with the Pittsburgh Pirates and Dunne dazzles with her gymnastics performances, the couple managed to squeeze in a special celebration that stirred memories of the iconic pottery scene.

    Dunne took to Instagram to share glimpses of their unique date, where the duo attended a pottery class and the images immediately evoked comparisons to the famous scene from Ghost, where Moore and Swayze created pottery together in a moment of pure romance.

    The 22-year-old Dunne, who stars with the LSU Tigers, was dressed in a stunning red nightgown and posted a set of photos, tagging Skenes with three red hearts in a message simply reading, “@PAULSKENES.”

    Skenes also joined in on the festivities by sharing a heartfelt tribute to Dunne on his Instagram story. The Pirates‘ sensational pitcher posted a photo of Dunne proudly holding the 2024 NCAA Trophy.

    The 22-year-old, voted the National League Rookie of the Year, added the snap of his beau with the caption, “My Valentine.”

    Dunne x Skenes: America’s latest sports power couple?

    Skenes took the baseball world by storm with an impressive 1.96 earned run average and an 11-3 record and is being counted on as the ace for the Pirates‘ upcoming season, determined to build on his success and lead his team to postseason once again.

    The Pirates finished with a .459 record and 76 wins at the PNC Park but missed out on the playoffs in the National League Central, which proved to be highly competitive between the Milwaukee Brewers, Chicago Cubs, St Louis Cardinals and Cincinnati Reds.

    Meanwhile, Dunne continues to shine with LSU gymnastics as an integral part of the team for an additional year, demonstrating her commitment and passion for the sport. Her influence extends beyond the gym as well, as she remains one of the most followed college athletes on social media, inspiring young gymnasts nationwide.



    Source link