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Kalvin Phillips' permanent departure from Manchester City is delayed until he recovers from an Achilles injury sustained during surgery at the end of May, with his return not expected until August. His exit, however, is considered a near certainty in the coming weeks. Phillips has struggled to establish himself at City since joining from Leeds United in 2022, failing to secure consistent playing time amid strong competition, notably from Rodri, compounded by injuries and form issues. Loan spells at West Ham United in the latter part of the 2023/24 season and more recently at Ipswich Town failed to reignite his best form or suggest a future at City. With Manchester City's squad evolving and new midfield additions arriving this summer, Phillips' pathway to the first team has further narrowed. The player himself is understood to be pushing for a permanent move away, and the club will not stand in his way following his underwhelming loan spells. Several Premier League clubs, particularly those lower down the table or newly promoted, are expected to be interested, valuing his experience, ball-winning ability, leadership, and proven quality from his time at Leeds. For Manchester City, a permanent sale would represent a clean break, facilitate squad adjustment by opening opportunities for emerging talents, and clear significant salary space.
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Olivia Culpo responded to criticism about the contents of her hospital bag after giving birth to her first child with husband Christian McCaffrey on July 13. She defended her choices in a July 15 Instagram Story, specifically highlighting her flameless candles as "AMAZING" during her post-C-section recovery. Culpo addressed backlash from fans about her packed items, stating she ultimately used everything during her 3-4 day hospital stay. She emphasized the importance of "creature comforts" during recovery and shared her list hoping to help other "comfort queens." In a July 11 TikTok, Culpo revealed her extensive packing list required two large suitcases. Key items included her own pillows ("I'm such a pillow snob"), fluffy blankets, twin-sized comforters for both parents, sleep masks, mini fans, aromatherapy spray, and the flameless candles—which she humorously called "the most ridiculous thing." Additionally, she prepared post-birth kits for both vaginal and C-section scenarios, along with luxury self-care items: multiple pajamas, makeup, hair/skin products, and breastfeeding aids. Culpo acknowledged many items were "luxuries as opposed to essentials" but aimed to make her hospital stay more comfortable.
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Manchester United are reportedly interested in signing Juventus midfielder Douglas Luiz during the upcoming summer transfer window. According to Football Insider, Manchester United will face competition for the Brazilian international from Premier League rivals Everton. However, Everton's approach differs as they are seeking to secure the player on a loan deal and are not prepared to commit to a permanent transfer.
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The Las Vegas Raiders require talent upgrades at several roster positions, though they possess top-tier talent elsewhere. An ESPN survey of NFL coaches, executives, scouts, and coordinators ranked the top 10 players at every position. Raiders offensive tackle Kolton Miller, while recognized as one of the better tackles, did not make the top 10 list for his position. Despite this omission, an NFL scout described Miller as a very critical player for the Raiders, stating he had a slow start last season due to a shoulder issue but improved, is very consistent, and sits just outside the top tier of players. Miller, who suffered an injury last season like many Raiders, is now back and prepared for the upcoming season. He feels healthier than last year, having had significantly more time to prepare ("a lot more ramp-up"), which he believes will lead to improved results for himself and the team. Following Organized Team Activities (OTAs), Miller expressed feeling "great" about his health, contrasting it with his limited preparation time last year. Miller, a long-time Raider through ups and downs, emphasized his focus on daily improvement and leadership. He expressed strong approval for the direction of the organization under new head coach Pete Carroll, praising Carroll's emphasis on competition and making everyone better, including younger players. Miller specifically highlighted his enthusiasm for the pieces added during the offseason, the team's energy, and Carroll's approach, calling this OTA period "one of the most productive" he's experienced. He described the team as "flying around" and stated he is "excited where we're headed."
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Terrance Ferguson, a rookie tight end for the Los Angeles Rams, married his high school sweetheart, Sophia Ferguson (maiden name Meyer), this weekend at Spruce Mountain in Larkspur, Colorado. The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and former Oregon Ducks teammates, including notable athletes such as Cleveland Browns quarterback Dillon Gabriel (a close friend), Jacksonville Jaguars tight end Patrick Herbert, Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Jeffrey Bassa, and former Oregon quarterback Ty Thompson. The wedding took place on a 450-acre ranch an hour outside of Denver, reflecting the couple's strong ties to Colorado; Ferguson attended Heritage High School in Littleton, while Sophia went to a nearby school. Ferguson proposed to Sophia in July of last year during a trip to Telluride in Western Colorado, presenting her with a ring from Happy Jewelers, an Orange County-based jeweler known for working with athletes and celebrities. In an Instagram post about the proposal, Ferguson quoted Bible verses (1 Corinthians 13:4-7) emphasizing love's virtues. Dillon Gabriel shared enthusiastic praise for the wedding on Instagram, highlighting Ferguson's speeches and dance moves, and attended the rehearsal dinner the previous day with his partner, Zo Caswell. Photos from the event were shared by the bride, and Caswell's Instagram story showed the couples enjoying pool time in Denver ahead of the wedding. Professionally, Ferguson was drafted by the Rams with the No. 46 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft but has not yet signed a contract, as he and other recent draft picks seek fully guaranteed deals following examples like Jayden Higgins and Carson Schwesinger. At Oregon, Ferguson was a key player in the 2024 undefeated season, recording 43 receptions for 591 yards and three touchdowns. He is expected to be the Rams' No. 2 tight end behind veteran Tyler Higbee, with potential for increased playing time due to Higbee's injury history.
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Liverpool have spent approximately £200 million on new players recently, including Florian Wirtz, strengthening their squad further. However, this significant expenditure necessitates recouping funds to sustain future squad upgrades, leading to speculation about player departures. The future of defender Ibrahima Konaté has become a major focus. With only one year remaining on his contract and having rejected two extension offers from Liverpool, rumours link him with a move to Real Madrid. According to a report from Spanish outlet AS, Liverpool plan to adopt a 'brave' stance by attempting to convince Konaté to stay during the upcoming season. The club believes this strategy, which proved successful in retaining Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah during the 2024-25 campaign, could work again. However, AS notes this approach carries a 'massive risk', especially if Liverpool could generate transfer revenue from his sale this summer instead. Should Liverpool decide to sell Konaté this summer, they would seek a fee of around €50 million (£43 million). This valuation is significantly lower than it would be if he had more time left on his contract. Konaté's potential departure is complicated by Liverpool's defensive depth. Following Jarell Quansah's move to Bayer Leverkusen, manager Arne Slot has only three natural centre-backs available. While players like Marc Guehi are linked with a move to Anfield, the situation suggests Liverpool need to add to their defensive options rather than reduce them.
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Liverpool have made a "club to club approach" for Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak, though no formal offer has been submitted. Newcastle are reluctant to sell their key player, described as "better than Mohamed Salah", and Liverpool are aware of this stance. The Reds have communicated their interest in a potential deal worth around £120 million. Should they fail to sign Isak, Liverpool are considering entering the race for Hugo Ekitike. However, this puts Newcastle in a predicament, as they themselves submitted a bid for Ekitike yesterday with the intention of him playing *alongside* Isak. It now appears Newcastle will likely have to choose between keeping Isak or signing Ekitike for the coming season. Liverpool's pursuit of a striker like Isak is driven by their need for attacking reinforcements. The likely departures of Darwin Nunez and Federico Chiesa, combined with Luis Diaz's potential move to Bayern Munich, would leave manager Arne Slot with only three forwards: Salah, Cody Gakpo, and Diaz. All three are naturally wide players, creating a need for a strong central striking option. Isak is seen as an ideal solution. He is a prolific striker who also offers the versatility Liverpool value in their forwards. Slot could tactically deploy Isak on the left flank when needed, providing flexibility. Signing the 25-year-old Isak is viewed as crucial for Liverpool's ambitions of winning back-to-back league titles.
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The wheelchair basketball tournament is organized by Jordan's Ajyal Al Ghad Sports Club in partnership with the Jordanian Paralympic Committee and the Asian Paralympic Committee. Teams from the UAE, Jordan, Palestine, Syria, Lebanon, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman are participating. Khorfakkan Club started its tournament campaign strongly, defeating the Omani team 65-43 in its opening match on Monday. Khorfakkan is scheduled to play against Bahrain's Al Ittihad on Wednesday in the third round of the preliminary stage, aiming to advance to the next round. Abdullah Saleh Al Naqbi, Chairman of Khorfakkan Club for the Disabled, expressed pride in the team's performance and their previous success, including winning the General Wheelchair Basketball League title for the fourth consecutive year. He expressed hope for continued success in their upcoming match.
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Former England manager Roy Hodgson doubts that Steven Gerrard and Wayne Rooney will pursue coaching opportunities in unexpected countries like Sweden, despite both being currently unemployed. Hodgson, who has extensive international coaching experience, believes high-profile players like them will continue to attract offers from English clubs due to their legendary status, making a move abroad unlikely. Hodgson suggests that managers without such star power—like Graham Potter or himself—are more probable candidates for overseas roles. He highlights increasing job insecurity in football, noting the average managerial tenure drops below one year outside the Premier League. However, he questions whether clubs in nations like Sweden could financially afford English managers' salary expectations today. Despite his skepticism about Sweden, Hodgson would advise Gerrard and Rooney to accept foreign opportunities if presented. He praises their drive but wonders if they could adapt to working with less skilled players, though he cites Rooney's positive experience helping struggling players at Plymouth. Hodgson differentiates their career trajectory from managers like Vincent Kompany, who climbed through clubs like Anderlecht before joining Bayern Munich. Currently, Gerrard remains without a managerial position since leaving Saudi Arabia's Al-Ettifaq in January 2024, while Rooney—after departing Plymouth Argyle—is focused on media work and a documentary with his wife Coleen.
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Juventus fullback Alberto Costa appeared close to a €20 million transfer to Sporting CP just days ago, which would have ended his six-month spell in Turin after limited appearances. However, the move now seems uncertain as Juventus—particularly manager Igor Tudor—is reconsidering selling the 21-year-old during the summer transfer window. Contrary to initial €20 million reports, Sporting's current bid is valued between €13-15 million including add-ons, according to Fabrizio Romano and O Jogo. Juventus demands a €15 million fixed fee plus add-ons and a 10% sell-on clause. Costa was previously a Sporting target in January before joining Juventus for €13.4 million. The situation remains fluid despite recent expectations of a quick sale. Tudor's potential insistence on retaining Costa complicates matters, especially as Costa is Juventus' only natural right wingback option with Timothy Weah reportedly available. Costa showed promise in his 14 appearances last season, performing well despite struggles against elite clubs like Manchester City and Real Madrid. Juventus' new management would require a significantly improved offer to approve a sale. While Sporting aims to act quickly amid competition from other clubs, Costa's future—whether staying in Turin or returning to Portugal—remains undecided at this stage.
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The article identifies potential fantasy football bust candidates for the 2024 season, defined as players likely to underperform relative to their Average Draft Position (ADP), from three NFL teams: Arizona Cardinals: Marvin Harrison Jr. (WR) Harrison Jr. is highlighted as Arizona's top bust candidate after being a premier bust in 2024. Despite being the highest-drafted rookie WR in fantasy history (late-first/early-second round), he averaged only 11.6 PPG, finishing as WR39. Although his ADP has dropped slightly, it remains high at WR15 (early third-round cost). Concerns include the Cardinals returning the same quarterback (struggles with downfield throws), offensive coordinator (schemed zero screens for WR1), and head coach. His elite prospect pedigree suggests potential, but the price paid far exceeds his rookie production, and the unchanged environment poses a significant bust risk. Atlanta Falcons: Drake London (WR) London is presented as the Falcons' most likely bust candidate solely because the team only has two early-round players (London and Bijan Robinson). The author clarifies they don't believe London will actually bust and expects improvement. However, London's history shows one season of WR1 production (16.5 PPG, WR13 in 2023) preceded by two seasons of WR4 production (10.5 and 10.9 PPG), largely due to poor coaching and quarterback play. While likely to improve, between him and Robinson, he is deemed the *more likely* bust candidate on the team based on ADP. Baltimore Ravens: Mark Andrews (TE) Andrews is identified as Baltimore's bust candidate. While his late draft position mitigates potential harm, there's a realistic chance he becomes "completely worthless." He trended towards being a massive bust early in 2023 (12.5 total points Weeks 1-4). Although he recovered to average 11.1 PPG, this was largely fueled by an unsustainable touchdown streak (scored in all but two games from Week 6-18). Concerns for 2024 include his age (30), a low 2023 target share (15.3%), being targeted on only 23.6% of his routes, and running a route on just 58.3% of passing plays.
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Former Green Bay Packers running back Jamaal Williams remains a free agent as NFL training camps approach, with speculation linking him to another NFC North team. Williams, a former fourth-round pick, played four seasons in Green Bay, forming a strong tandem with Aaron Jones and becoming a fan favorite before signing with the division-rival Detroit Lions after his rookie contract expired. Williams demonstrated his impact in Detroit, notably having a breakout 2022 season where he rushed for 1,066 yards and a league-leading 17 touchdowns. Despite a less productive two-year stint with the New Orleans Saints (only 2 touchdowns), he is considered deserving of another NFL opportunity as a complementary running back. Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated predicts the Chicago Bears could show interest in signing Williams to add depth and competition to their running back room during training camp. Bears head coach Ben Johnson, who was the Lions' offensive coordinator during Williams' standout 2022 season, is a key connection. While the Bears have D'Andre Swift and Roschon Johnson, they might seek competition for the RB3 spot. Although seeing Williams join another division rival would be difficult for Packers fans, the article emphasizes that he deserves the chance. It also notes the Packers themselves do not need a running back, having depth behind Josh Jacobs with MarShawn Lloyd, Emanuel Wilson, and Chris Brooks.
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The fierce rivalry between Liverpool and Real Madrid, intensified by Real Madrid's victories in the 2018 and 2022 Champions League finals causing significant pain for Liverpool fans, forms the backdrop. The hypothetical scenario of Trent Alexander-Arnold, a key player in both losses, moving to Real Madrid on a free transfer would exacerbate tensions. Real Madrid winger Rodrygo's comments about Liverpool's Mohamed Salah, made after the 2022 final win, are a major point of contention. Rodrygo revealed on the Podpah Podcast that Salah's pre-match talk of "revenge" for the 2018 final (where Salah was injured early) motivated Real Madrid players. Rodrygo stated they used to say "come Salah" in training, adding, "When a guy provokes, sometimes you just want to win so you can make fun of them," and their mindset was "we have to win to then make fun of Salah." These public admissions, even if intended as fun or mind games, have made Rodrygo deeply disliked by Liverpool's fiercely loyal fans, who never forget such swipes, especially at Salah. Consequently, despite Rodrygo being linked with a move away from Real Madrid and potentially to Liverpool this summer, his past comments create significant tension and make winning over Liverpool fans extremely difficult. The piece also notes that while exchanges between players of these rival clubs are understandable, Rodrygo implicated Luka Modric in finding humor in a comment directed at Salah after the 2022 final.
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Juventus midfielder Fabio Miretti is anticipated to leave Turin on loan again this season, attracting interest from prestigious clubs. The 21-year-old youth product initially broke into Juve's first team in March 2022 under Massimiliano Allegri due to midfield shortages and impressed early on, but later saw his progress stall and his standing within the squad diminish. Following the arrivals of Teun Koopmeiners, Douglas Luiz, and Khephren Thuram last summer, new manager Thiago Motta excluded Miretti from his plans. Miretti was subsequently loaned to Genoa, where he rediscovered his best form, particularly towards the end of the season under Patrick Vieira. Despite this positive loan spell and a subsequent managerial change to Igor Tudor, Miretti is still not expected to be part of Juventus's plans for the upcoming season. However, Miretti is unlikely to struggle finding a new club. Napoli has expressed interest in signing the midfielder and is currently considering the move. Reports suggest Miretti is intrigued by the prospect of joining the Italian champions and reuniting with sporting director Giovanni Manna, who oversaw his development at Juventus Next Gen. Napoli could face competition from AC Milan, who are also monitoring the situation. Milan might attempt to reunite Miretti with his former Juventus manager, Massimiliano Allegri, who gave him his senior debut. His final destination for the upcoming season remains to be decided.
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Real Madrid's season concluded following their elimination from the Club World Cup, with players now on vacation. Despite this, several players shared social media messages, notably for Vinícius Jr.'s 25th birthday. New teammate Kylian Mbappé sent a significant greeting via an Instagram story, featuring a photo of the two celebrating a past goal together, accompanied by a heart emoji and birthday symbol. This gesture held particular meaning for Vinícius, who faced criticism after a disappointing performance in the semifinal against Paris Saint-Germain. Teammate Jude Bellingham also publicly congratulated Vinícius, posting "Happy birthday, my brother" on Instagram, demonstrating camaraderie among the squad's stars. However, the mood surrounding Vinícius remained somber after the team's exit; he appeared visibly disappointed and attempted to avoid media as he left MetLife Stadium, only to be redirected by a FIFA security staff member. This contrasted with teammates like Luka Modrić, who paused to acknowledge fans and press in his final match for the club. Despite recent setbacks and criticism, Vinícius continues to receive public support from key figures within Real Madrid. Mbappé's birthday message not only underscores the developing bond between the two forwards but also signals a unified dressing room as the club shifts its focus towards rebuilding and pursuing success next season.
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PSG secured a dominant 4-0 victory over Real Madrid in a FIFA Club World Cup semifinal match held in East Rutherford. This result starkly contrasted preseason expectations following Kylian Mbappé's high-profile free transfer from PSG to Real Madrid after the latter's 15th UEFA Champions League triumph. Mbappé's move was initially perceived as a severe blow to PSG and a catalyst to make Real Madrid "unstoppable." Contrary to projections, PSG achieved their most successful season in club history, highlighted by winning their first-ever Champions League title with a 5-0 final victory over Inter Milan. Meanwhile, Mbappé endured a disappointing debut season at Real Madrid, capturing only minor trophies (UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Intercontinental Cup) while failing to secure major honors. Barcelona claimed Spain's primary domestic trophies (LaLiga and Copa del Rey), and Real Madrid suffered a shock Champions League quarterfinal exit to Arsenal—their earliest elimination in five years. The Club World Cup semifinal offered Mbappé a chance to redeem himself against his former club. Both teams advanced through group stages with mixed results: Real Madrid drew against Al-Hilal before defeating Pachuca, Salzburg, Juventus, and Dortmund, while PSG beat Atlético Madrid, lost to Botafogo, then overpowered Seattle Sounders, Inter Miami, and Bayern Munich. The semifinal proved overwhelmingly one-sided, with PSG imposing relentless pressure and cohesive passing to trap Real Madrid in their own half. An Antonio Rüdiger error led to Fabián Ruiz opening the scoring within six minutes, setting the tone for PSG's comprehensive 4-0 demolition.
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Stoke City manager Mark Robins has expressed confidence that young striker Divin Mubama will establish himself in the Championship during his season-long loan at the club. The 20-year-old, joining from Manchester City, will experience regular senior football for the first time at Bet365 Stadium after catching attention with his prolific West Ham youth record and making his Manchester City debut last season. Mubama scored on his first-team debut against Salford City in the FA Cup following his £2 million signing in August, later making his Premier League appearance as a substitute against Ipswich. Robins emphasized the opportunity for weekly development, praising Mubama's "raw talent" and character while noting the challenge of breaking through at top-tier clubs. He described the striker as a "really nice kid" with humor and dedication who should become popular with supporters. In a separate section, Manchester City legend Kevin De Bruyne is honored following his departure after winning six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, five League Cups, and the Champions League. The club has released a special edition titled "KDB The King," featuring retrospectives on his 10 best performances, title victories, and tributes from manager Pep Guardiola, teammates, and football elites.
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During the second practice round of the American Century Championship, the author nearly collided with NFL MVP Josh Allen on Hole No. 1. Allen, attempting to sign autographs for a large group of fans despite initially saying he would sign after his round, almost ran into the author. Allen's athleticism allowed him to avoid a collision before continuing to sign autographs and take selfies. Allen proved extremely popular with fans at the Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course, ranking among the top four most sought-after participants alongside Stephen Curry, George Kittle, and Aaron Rodgers. Fans frequently asked "Where's Josh Allen?" and were visibly thrilled upon spotting him, highlighting the tournament's appeal for fan-athlete interaction, exemplified by a group of ecstatic kids getting a photo with him. A notable incident involved Aaron Rodgers refusing to sign memorabilia for a fan carrying an item from the 2005 Packers-Saints game. Rodgers, recognizing the fan as a frequent autograph seeker (calling him an "autograph hound"), quizzed him on details of the Packers' 52-3 win. When the fan incorrectly recalled the score and couldn't state how many snaps Rodgers played in garbage time, Rodgers declined to sign, stating, "I don't believe you... You can't fool me."
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Russell Martin, Rangers manager, expects Sheffield Wednesday winger Djeidi Gassama to join Rangers soon, stating the deal is "all done at our end" and awaiting completion on Sheffield Wednesday's side. Martin described the 21-year-old Gassama, who has scored 12 goals in 84 appearances for the English Championship club, as "different to what we've got" and emphasized the need for "a point of difference in the squad," expressing hope the transfer concludes "very, very soon." Martin also confirmed that Rangers have accepted an offer from Dutch club Twente Enschede, his former club, for defender Robin Propper. The 31-year-old Dutchman, who joined Rangers last summer, has struggled for playing time. Martin stated the move now depends on Propper agreeing personal terms, noting that new defensive signings make playing time difficult for him and that a transfer to Twente would be "a good move" if he accepts. Rangers have been active in the summer transfer window, having already signed midfielders Thelo Aasgaard, Lyall Cameron, and Joe Rothwell, alongside defenders Max Aarons, Nasser Djiga, and Emmanuel Fernandez.
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The Fantasy Premier League (FPL) is approaching its relaunch, and an ongoing series predicts players likely to see price increases for the 2025/26 season, assuming no major rule changes or positional reclassifications. After covering goalkeepers and defenders, this installment focuses on midfielders, with future articles to address forwards and potential price fallers. Mohamed Salah is highlighted for his exceptional 2024/25 season, where he set an all-time FPL points record of 344 points. He achieved this with 47 goal involvements (29 goals and 18 assists) in 38 matches, while also leading all players in shots (130) and chances created from open play (86). His consistent performance strongly justifies a price hike for the upcoming season. Given Erling Haaland's £15.0m price tag in the previous season—the highest in FPL history—Salah is expected to command a similar cost. This potential increase could encourage FPL managers to critically evaluate his value rather than automatically selecting him, potentially leading to greater team variety in the game.
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In all-time college football series exceeding 25 games, Texas stands as the only team with a winning record against Oklahoma. The Red River Rivalry spans 120 games, with Texas leading 64-51-5. While Texas dominated early (winning 27 of the first 40 games), Oklahoma has held the upper hand since 1947 (40-37-3) and particularly since 2000 (17-9). Oklahoma maintains overwhelming dominance over former conference rivals, boasting a combined +50 advantage against Oklahoma State, Kansas, and Kansas State with winning percentages exceeding .728 against each. Their most lopsided series is against Iowa State, where they've won 80 of 89 meetings (.910 winning percentage) – the highest such margin in FBS history for series over 50 games. Though Iowa State won the inaugural 1928 matchup and tied the series 2-2 early, Oklahoma has gone 78-5-2 since. Against current SEC opponents, Oklahoma's longest series are with Missouri (97 games, Sooners lead 67-25-5) and Texas A&M (31 games). Missouri won their first SEC-era matchup last season. The Sooners hold winning records against eight SEC teams: Alabama (4-2-1), Arkansas (10-4-1), Auburn (3-0), Kentucky (2-1), Missouri, Tennessee (3-2), Texas A&M (19-12), and Vanderbilt (2-0-1). They trail Georgia (0-1), LSU (1-3), Ole Miss (0-2), and South Carolina (0-1), while splitting two games with Florida. Oklahoma has never faced Mississippi State.
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The San Francisco 49ers are building significant expectations around Christian McCaffrey's health and performance for the upcoming season. McCaffrey himself stated his health is not an issue and he can still play at a high level, a sentiment echoed by head coach Kyle Shanahan and other teammates during OTAs and minicamp. Fullback Kyle Juszczyk recently joined in, declaring McCaffrey "arguably the best player in the NFL," highlighting his 2022 Offensive Player of the Year award and stating he looks "incredible," "healthy," and "explosive." The team appears to be collectively emphasizing McCaffrey's readiness, perhaps trying to "manifest it into existence" due to his critical importance to their offense; losing him again would be devastating. This reflects a strong desire within the organization to believe he will be the elite player he was in 2023. However, the article urges caution regarding these assurances, suggesting they should be taken "with a grain of salt." It points out the similarity to last year's situation when McCaffrey initially had a "calf strain" and reminds readers that he suffered injuries to both Achilles tendons, plus a knee injury that ended his 2024 season. The author finds it notable that the team is acting as if these significant injuries never occurred. The piece concludes that words from McCaffrey, teammates, and coaches are ultimately meaningless until he demonstrates his health and elite performance consistently on the field over multiple games. By setting such high expectations that he *must* be healthy and elite, the 49ers risk setting themselves up for a massive letdown if he fails to meet them.
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The Buffalo Bills' safety group enters training camp with Taylor Rapp firmly established as a starter. Entering his seventh season, Rapp is comfortable in his role but emphasizes continuous growth. He has also taken on a leadership and mentorship role, particularly helping younger players like second-year safety Cole Bishop adapt to the Bills' system. The Bills largely maintained their safety room this offseason. The group consists of six players: Rapp, Bishop, Damar Hamlin, Darrick Forrest, Wande Owens, and hybrid players Cam Lewis and Jordan Hancock (who also play cornerback). A key storyline is the position battle for the starting spot opposite Rapp. Damar Hamlin, who started last season after Bishop suffered a shoulder injury in training camp, was re-signed to a one-year deal. Hamlin brings experience and aims to mentor younger players. The main competition is between Hamlin and Cole Bishop, the Bills' second-round pick from last year. The team expects Bishop to make a significant jump in his second season, and while he is considered the favorite to win the starting job, the outcome will be determined over the coming weeks of camp.
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Eric Allen suggests Breece Hall is the favorite to lead the Jets in touchdowns for the 2025 season, noting that Hall topped the team with 8 touchdowns last year while Garrett Wilson and Davante Adams each had 7 receiving scores. He highlights Hall's versatility as a rushing and receiving threat and the influence of new offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand, who previously helped the Lions lead the NFL with 70 touchdowns. However, Allen emphasizes uncertainty in the Jets' offense, pointing to strong contenders like Braelon Allen in short-yardage situations, Justin Fields' rushing ability, Wilson's consistent scoring, and rookie Mason Taylor's potential as a red-zone threat, predicting a tight competition. Ethan Greenberg acknowledges Breece Hall's track record of leading the team in touchdowns for three consecutive seasons but predicts Garrett Wilson will emerge as the leader in 2025. He cites Wilson's career-high 7 receiving touchdowns last season, which tied for the team lead, and head coach Aaron Glenn's plan to maximize Wilson's involvement. Greenberg notes that a more balanced running back workload between Hall, Braelon Allen, and Isaiah Davis could reduce Hall's opportunities, expecting the Jets to creatively utilize Wilson throughout the season.
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Last season saw a decline in performance for New York Jets running back Breece Hall, despite his status as one of the team's brightest young stars. This downturn reflects a broader struggle for the Jets, leading to low expectations from major media outlets as training camp nears. Former NFL All-Pro Maurice Jones-Drew ranked Hall as the 19th best projected starting halfback for 2025 in his league-wide assessment. Jones-Drew acknowledged the challenging environment Hall played in, citing poor surrounding talent and team structure, particularly noting inefficient quarterback play as a factor in Hall's decreasing efficiency over the past two seasons. However, Hall isn't receiving the full benefit of the doubt for his struggles. Hall's production dipped significantly after a breakout 2023 season where he amassed 994 rushing yards, 5 rushing touchdowns, 591 receiving yards, and 4 receiving touchdowns. In contrast, his 2024 totals fell to 1,359 yards from scrimmage (down from 1,585) and his average yards per touch decreased from 5.3 to 5.1. Advanced statistics also confirmed this decline. Entering a contract year in 2025, Hall is focused on regaining respect and re-establishing himself as a premier running back. However, he faces uncertainty within the Jets' new offensive system led by first-time coordinator Tanner Engstrand and new quarterback Justin Fields. Jones-Drew suggests Engstrand, coming from Detroit's system featuring a two-headed monster in the backfield, might implement a committee approach. New head coach Aaron Glenn reportedly prefers a three-RB rotation, meaning Hall could see some carries go to Braelon Allen and Isaiah Davis, potentially reducing his opportunities. While Jones-Drew believes Hall will remain the lead back, a rotation could impact his ability to climb the rankings. Hall doesn't necessarily need an increased workload to regain his standing; maintaining his current touch count while improving efficiency, returning to form in scoring, or pushing for 1,000 rushing yards could suffice. The key requirement is for Hall to perform better than he did last season.
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Betting activity for the Week 1 matchup between the Philadelphia Eagles and Dallas Cowboys in the 2025 NFL season shows significant interest in the underdog Cowboys despite the Eagles being favored by 7 points. According to BetMGM data, the Cowboys at +7 are the most-bet team in ticket volume for Week 1 and rank second in total handle. Additionally, the Cowboys' +260 moneyline is the most-bet underdog wager in ticket count. This game is the most-bet matchup of opening week by tickets, while the point total is the second-most-bet on Overs. This betting trend persists despite the Eagles' overwhelming dominance in their 2024 matchups, where Philadelphia won 34-6 at Dallas in November and 41-7 at home in December. The Eagles outscored the Cowboys 75-13 across both games, with Dallas showing minimal competitiveness regardless of quarterback Dak Prescott's health. Historically, the series was balanced before 2024, with each team winning alternately—the Cowboys took the 2021 season series, but Philadelphia claimed the last five years' overall advantage with their 2024 sweep. Bettors appear drawn to the Cowboys' potential for higher payouts, though the Eagles present strong counterarguments: Philadelphia has won three consecutive home games against Dallas, finished 14-3 last season, and won the Super Bowl, while Dallas had a 7-10 record. Despite the betting public's lean toward Dallas, the article suggests the Eagles remain the analytically safer choice for wagers, even with lower potential returns.
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Erling Haaland has been enjoying a sunny vacation in Ibiza following Manchester City's surprising elimination from the Club World Cup's last 16 by Al-Hilal on July 1st. The striker was pictured having fun on a banana boat with his girlfriend, Isabel Haugseng Johansen, and later riding a jet ski, wearing a life jacket and swimming shorts with his hair tied back. Haaland was also seen relaxing on a luxury yacht, while Isabel was spotted surfing. Earlier in the week, the couple were photographed swimming in the ocean near their boat. The pair have a child together but keep their private life very secret, including not publicly revealing their child's name. They reportedly met at the youth academy of Norwegian club Byrne, where both played football, and began dating when Haaland was at Borussia Dortmund. Manchester City missed out on a potential £92 million jackpot by being eliminated from the tournament. However, manager Pep Guardiola may appreciate the slightly longer break this provides for his squad before the Premier League season resumes in August.
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