The August trade that moved Micah Parsons from the Cowboys to the Packers sent shockwaves through...

The August trade that moved Micah Parsons from the Cowboys to the Packers sent shockwaves through the NFL and started a new era for both teams. Here's how Dallas and Green Bay are doing seven weeks into the 2025 season.<h3>Parsons and Packers: The perfect marriage</h3>Parsons' impact in Green Bay has been what everyone could've expected from a lifetime player landing in a creative scheme filled with quality starters. After a three-sack outing Sunday, Parsons has 5.5 sacks in six games. The 26-year-old ranks third in the NFL in pressures despite battling a back injury that limited his workload early on. He's also collected 16 tackles (five for loss) and 13 quarterback hits.Parsons makes his teammates' lives a lot easier by attracting double-teams or possibly forcing holding penalties (some of which referees should be <a href="https://x.com/cheeseheadtv/status/1978178452063769009">calling more often</a>). Those are the only ways you can contain the four-time Pro Bowler, who ranks second in pass-rush win rate, according to PFF. Entering Week 7, Parsons faced double-teams at the <a href="https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-chip-and-double-team-rates-ranking-the-defensive-linemen-who-overcome-extra-attention">second-highest rate</a> among edge rushers, and no other player at his position drew more triple-teams.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806570/Sacks_pressures.jpg?ts=1761062986" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806570/Sacks_pressures.jpg?ts=1761062986 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806570/Sacks_pressures.jpg?ts=1761062986 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806570/Sacks_pressures.jpg?ts=1761062986 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806570/Sacks_pressures.jpg?ts=1761062986 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806570/Sacks_pressures.jpg?ts=1761062986 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> </figcaption></figure>Packers' defense looks dangerousBeyond highlights and standout stats, Parsons has provided Green Bay with an inspiring combination of talent and energy that could make him the missing piece in the playoffs. The Packers have just one postseason win in the past two years. A healthy Parsons should help the franchise get over the hump.With Parsons in town, Green Bay is 4-1-1, good for first in the NFC. Defensively, it ranks third in yards/play, second in pressures, and sixth in sacks per game. However, the Packers are just average in EPA/play allowed after placing fourth in the category in 2024. But there's no doubt that Parsons makes them more dangerous. Against the run, the club is allowing only 3.5 yards per carry and 76.5 rushing yards per contest.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803461/cropped_GettyImages-2237975031.jpg?ts=1759150013" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803461/w220xh124_GettyImages-2237975031.jpg?ts=1759150013 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803461/w320xh180_GettyImages-2237975031.jpg?ts=1759150013 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803461/w640xh360_GettyImages-2237975031.jpg?ts=1759150013 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803461/w768xh432_GettyImages-2237975031.jpg?ts=1759150013 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803461/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2237975031.jpg?ts=1759150013 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Cooper Neill / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Even when Parsons doesn't play at his best - like in his revenge game versus the Cowboys on Sept. 28 - he's opened up lanes for teammates. Rashan Gary has never posted double-digit sacks in a season, but he's on pace to finish 2025 with 15. Lineman Devonte Wyatt is also on track to have his most productive campaign despite missing two outings with a knee issue. The same goes for 2023 first-round pick Lukas Van Ness, who looked good before injuring his foot two weeks ago.That's a major difference from last year, when Gary led the team with 7.5 sacks and no other Packer had more than five.<h3>How's Dallas holding up?</h3>It's been a rough season for Dallas' defensive unit. Star corner Trevon Diggs recently admitted the Cowboys "have no identity" defensively, per <a href="https://x.com/calvinwatkins/status/1977481562078822622">Calvin Watkins of the Dallas Morning News</a>. The team has yet to allow fewer than 20 points in a game this campaign. It gave up 22 twice, and that was against the winless New York Jets and Washington Commanders, who lost starting quarterback Jayden Daniels midway through the matchup.On paper, the Cowboys' defense still has enough talent to be decent. However, injuries, the lack of star power, and a flawed system coordinated by Matt Eberflus have become issues reflected in their record. Jerry Jones' club has Dak Prescott playing at an MVP level, yet it's only 3-3-1.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806560/cropped_Screenshot_2025-10-21_at_11.14.18_AM.jpg?ts=1761059769" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806560/w220xh124_Screenshot_2025-10-21_at_11.14.18_AM.jpg?ts=1761059769 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806560/w320xh180_Screenshot_2025-10-21_at_11.14.18_AM.jpg?ts=1761059769 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806560/w640xh360_Screenshot_2025-10-21_at_11.14.18_AM.jpg?ts=1761059769 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806560/w768xh432_Screenshot_2025-10-21_at_11.14.18_AM.jpg?ts=1761059769 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806560/w1080xh607_Screenshot_2025-10-21_at_11.14.18_AM.jpg?ts=1761059769 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> rbsdm.com/stats</figcaption></figure>The 2025 Cowboys rank 31st in yards/play and 30th in points allowed while recording the eighth-most missed tackles, according to Football Reference. They're also 30th with 0.15 EPA/play allowed, a dramatic drop from their NFL-best 0.07 EPA/play allowed from 2021-24 with Parsons on the field, per TruMedia.The Parsons trade was the second significant blow to Dallas' defense in as many years. An excellent unit not long ago, the Cowboys lost coordinator Dan Quinn to a head coaching position with the Washington Commanders. Not even Parsons could save the 2024 Cowboys, who were devastated by injuries and allowed the second-most points in the league. They ranked in the top three for sacks, though. This year, they're 17th.Can they at least stop the run?Jones didn't want to give Parsons the same four-year, $186-million extension he signed with the Packers. Instead, Jones tried to explain the shocking Parsons trade by suggesting that Dallas needed to "stop the run." So, have the Cowboys at least been able to do that after moving on from their perennial Defensive Player of the Year candidate? The answer is no.Numbers show that Dallas may actually be just as bad against the rush.<figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Cowboys' run defense</th>
<th>2024</th>
<th>2025</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Yards/Game</td>
<td>137.1</td>
<td>141.3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Yards/Carry</td>
<td>4.8</td>
<td>4.7</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>The Cowboys' run defense was solid for at least two seasons in the Parsons era, ranking third in defensive rushing EPA between 2022 and 2023. Dallas places 28th in that metric this year, up from 31st in '24.How about Kenny ClarkClark will forever be linked to Parsons after Green Bay sent its longtime defensive lineman and two future first-round picks to Dallas as part of the trade. A quality starter and standout run defender for most of his career, Clark has also been good as a Cowboy. He had one of his worst NFL performances against the Carolina Panthers two weeks ago (like most Cowboys defenders), but the 30-year-old has collected 15 tackles (two for loss), four QB hits, and 1.5 sacks.Here's how Parsons and Clark compare to their new teammates this year in five key metrics: Sacks, average time to sack, pressures, tackles for loss on run plays, and havoc plays (combination of sacks, tackles for loss, forced fumbles, interceptions, and pass breakups).<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806568/Screenshot_2025-10-21_at_11.53.20_AM.jpg?ts=1761062128" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806568/Screenshot_2025-10-21_at_11.53.20_AM.jpg?ts=1761062128 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806568/Screenshot_2025-10-21_at_11.53.20_AM.jpg?ts=1761062128 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806568/Screenshot_2025-10-21_at_11.53.20_AM.jpg?ts=1761062128 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806568/Screenshot_2025-10-21_at_11.53.20_AM.jpg?ts=1761062128 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806568/Screenshot_2025-10-21_at_11.53.20_AM.jpg?ts=1761062128 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> </figcaption></figure>Clark is the type of veteran Dallas needed to upgrade its defense after the unit's disappointing 2024 campaign. His experience and leadership stand out. The problem will always be who the Cowboys got rid of to get him.

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No Micah, big problem? Early results of blockbuster Packers-Cowboys trade

New York Giants quarterback Russell Wilson clapped back at Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton ...

New York Giants quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/12258" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/12258">Russell Wilson</a> clapped back at Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton on social media.After completing an epic comeback over the Giants on Sunday, Payton complimented New York rookie quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/209911" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209911">Jaxson Dart</a> while taking a shot at Wilson."They found a little spark with that quarterback," Payton said postgame about the Giants going from Dart to Wilson with the season underway, according to <a href="https://x.com/SNYGiants/status/1980064740509360231">SNY</a>. "I was talking to (Giants owner) John Mara not too long ago, and I said, 'We were hoping that that change would've happened long after our game.'"<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Wilson responded to Payton on Tuesday, saying he isn't surprised by the veteran coach's "classless" comments. The 36-year-old also referenced the Bountygate scandal that rocked the New Orleans Saints organization with Payton as their head coach and resulted in a season-long suspension for him in 2012 following an NFL investigation.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Classless… but not surprised…. Didn’t realize you’re still bounty hunting 15+ years later through the media. 😎😂 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LetsRide?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LetsRide</a> 🤣— Russell Wilson (@DangeRussWilson) <a href="https://twitter.com/DangeRussWilson/status/1980735749394665615?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>New York kicked off the 2025 campaign with Wilson under center but turned to Dart following a 0-3 start. Wilson played for Payton's Broncos in 2023, but the team released the signal-caller after going 8-9 that year.The Giants have shown improvements lately, winning two out of four games with Dart at QB. New York drafted him 25th overall in April.Sunday's win moved the Broncos to 5-2, good for the No. 1 spot in the AFC West.

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - OCTOBER 9: Russell Wilson #3 of the New York Giants warms up prior to an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles at MetLife Stadium on October 9, 2025 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

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Russ rips 'classless' Sean Payton for apparent postgame dig

New York Jets owner Woody Johnson addressed his team's disappointing start to the season, showing...

New York Jets owner Woody Johnson addressed his team's disappointing start to the season, showing faith in first-year head coach Aaron Glenn and blaming subpar quarterback play for their 0-7 record."I see what you see," Johnson said Tuesday before a two-day meeting among NFL owners in New York, according to <a href="https://x.com/MarkMaske/status/1980682925214421192">The Washington Post's Mark Maske</a>. "But I see more hope than you do. ... You can't win with hope. But it helps."Johnson <a href="https://x.com/MarkMaske/status/1980688842526171142">added</a>, "I do believe in Aaron. ... If I were a player, I would respond to him because he's the real deal. He's no BS. ... I hug him every day."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Johnson didn't sound as optimistic about quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161671" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161671">Justin Fields</a>, though."It looks like (Glenn is) turning around parts of it," Johnson <a href="https://x.com/MarkMaske/status/1980684366029217879">said</a>. "It's hard when you have a quarterback with the rating that we've got. He has the ability. ... But if you look at any head coach with a quarterback like that, you're going to see similar results."The owner <a href="https://x.com/MarkMaske/status/1980685420280123865">added</a>, "Defense, special teams are doing better. Defense is pretty good. If we just complete a pass, it would look good. We've got to complete some passes. You've got to convince them that you can do something."Fields signed a two-year contract with the Jets in the offseason but hasn't come close to living up to the hype. The 26-year-old has posted a passer rating of 91.1, and his average of 140.8 passing yards per game ranks 33rd among quarterbacks. Fields, who was benched for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/13236" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/13236">Tyrod Taylor</a> in Sunday's loss to the Carolina Panthers, also places 31st in EPA/play.Though Johnson said it's "up to the coach" to make a quarterback decision, Glenn is moving toward choosing Taylor as his starter for Sunday's game versus the Cincinnati Bengals, sources told <a href="https://x.com/RichCimini/status/1980689199176060928">ESPN's Rich Cimini</a>.The Jets parted ways with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/747" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/747">Aaron Rodgers</a> earlier this year after missing the playoffs for the 14th consecutive season. Rodgers has helped the Pittsburgh Steelers start the campaign 4-2 by passing for 14 touchdowns against five interceptions."I never look back," Johnson <a href="https://x.com/MarkMaske/status/1980690285685534766">said</a> about moving on from Rodgers after his disappointing two-year stint in New York.

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - OCTOBER 05: Justin Fields #7 of the New York Jets in action during the NFL 2025 game against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium on October 05, 2025 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

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Woody calls out Fields: It'd look good if Jets could 'complete a pass'

Lane Kiffin is on Florida's radar as the Gators kick off their search for a new head coach.  The ...

Lane Kiffin is on Florida's radar as the Gators kick off their search for a new head coach.The Ole Miss sideline boss is the candidate Florida boosters want to hire the most, sources told <a href="https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/florida-gators-coaching-search-candidates-lane-kiffin/">John Talty of CBS Sports</a>.Gators athletic director Scott Stricklin <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3372810" href="https://thescore.com/news/3372810">fired</a> fourth-year coach Billy Napier on Sunday but began doing his due diligence on Kiffin earlier this season, sources told Talty, making calls to those around the Ole Miss boss.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Stricklin was reportedly believed to be hesitant to pursue Kiffin, but that's apparently changed this coaching cycle.Kiffin has an annual salary of $9 million with the Rebels. The 50-year-old has posted a 50-19 record since joining Ole Miss for the 2020 campaign, including a 6-1 mark this season.Florida is coming off a narrow win over Mississippi State, and the Gators have won two of their past three contests. Napier posted a 22-23 record with the school.Florida is one of the top vacancies this coaching cycle along with Penn State. Jobs at Florida State and Auburn could also open up with Mike Norvell and Hugh Freeze on the hot seat.

JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA - JANUARY 02: Head coach Lane Kiffin of the Mississippi Rebels celebrates a touchdown during the second half of the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl against the Duke Blue Devils at EverBank Stadium on January 02, 2025 in Jacksonville, Florida.

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Report: Florida boosters want Lane Kiffin to fill vacancy

New York Jets head coach Aaron Glenn refused to name a starting quarterback for next week's game ...

New York Jets head coach Aaron Glenn refused to name a starting quarterback for next week's game against the Cincinnati Bengals after benching <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161671" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161671">Justin Fields</a> during Sunday's 13-6 loss to the Carolina Panthers, according to <a href="https://x.com/RichCimini/status/1980006193243341045">ESPN's Rich Cimini</a>.The Jets replaced Fields with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/13236" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/13236">Tyrod Taylor</a> in the second half. Fields completed 6 of 12 pass attempts for 46 yards en route to a 10-3 deficit at halftime. He was checked for a concussion earlier in the matchup but returned to the game."Just looking for a spark. It was my call, and (I) felt it was the right time to do it," Glenn said of the Fields benching postgame, according to <a href="https://x.com/Nick_Faria1720/status/1980006158355116509">Nick Faria of Jets X-Factor</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Fields, who joined the team on a two-year deal this past offseason, has struggled in his first campaign with New York. The 26-year-old has been held under 50 passing yards in three games this season. The Jets entered this week as the NFL's only winless team in 2025.Glenn scoffed earlier this week when asked if he'd consider benching Fields."What kind of question is that?" Glenn responded.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Aaron Glenn refused to bench Justin Fields yesterday and it proved he has zero feel for the game. Gang's All Here Reaction with <a href="https://twitter.com/RyanMSampson?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RyanMSampson</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/FrankieVitz?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FrankieVitz</a>. YouTube ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/tD7tpqAjHG">https://t.co/tD7tpqAjHG</a> <a href="https://t.co/RXJmXwn7ek">pic.twitter.com/RXJmXwn7ek</a>— New York Post Sports (@nypostsports) <a href="https://twitter.com/nypostsports/status/1977753849419944420?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Taylor started one game this season, subbing in for an injured Fields on Oct. 21. The 36-year-old, who has 59 NFL starts under his belt, finished Sunday with 10 completions on 22 attempts for 126 yards and no touchdowns against two interceptions.The Jets dropped to 0-7 with their latest defeat.

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - OCTOBER 19: Justin Fields #7 of the New York Jets runs with the ball during the second quarter against the Carolina Panthers in the game at MetLife Stadium on October 19, 2025 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

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Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young sustained an ankle injury during Sunday's 13-6 win over...

Carolina Panthers quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188155" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188155">Bryce Young</a> sustained an ankle injury during Sunday's 13-6 win over the New York Jets.Young appeared to limp while walking to the locker room late in the third quarter. It's unclear when he was hurt, but the former No. 1 pick was sacked on his last play before exiting the matchup and subsequently ruled out.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Panthers QB Bryce Young, who left game with ankle injury, was sacked on his last play <a href="https://t.co/lfyHWlL1Gv">pic.twitter.com/lfyHWlL1Gv</a>— Kelli Bartik (@KelliBartik) <a href="https://twitter.com/KelliBartik/status/1979992898511774042?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Young completed 15 of 25 pass attempts for 138 yards and one touchdown before leaving the contest. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/21441" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/21441">Andy Dalton</a> replaced him and helped the Panthers claim their third straight win.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Carolina faces the Buffalo Bills on Oct. 26.

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - OCTOBER 19: Bryce Young #9 of the Carolina Panthers reacts during the second half against the New York Jets in the game at MetLife Stadium on October 19, 2025 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

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Dallas Cowboys wide receiver CeeDee Lamb will return Sunday against the Washington Commanders fol...

Dallas Cowboys wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/120335" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/120335">CeeDee Lamb</a> will return Sunday against the Washington Commanders following a three-game absence, the team announced.Lamb, who sustained an ankle sprain Sept. 21, had no designation on Dallas' injury report Friday. The star wideout was a limited participant at practice Wednesday and Thursday but practiced in full during Friday's session.He said Thursday he could've played last week versus the Carolina Panthers but chose to sit another game to be fully healthy and with no limitations moving forward, according to <a href="https://x.com/clarencehilljr/status/1978926032725164519">Clarence Hill Jr. of DLLS Sports</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 26-year-old caught 16 passes for 222 yards in two games before sustaining the injury during the Cowboys' third contest against the Bears. He's also dropped four passes across his three appearances.Wideout <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174055" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174055">George Pickens</a> stepped up and helped the Cowboys' offense stay sharp with Lamb sidelined. Pickens has racked up 359 yards and four touchdowns on 19 receptions over the past three weeks.Lamb, a four-time Pro Bowler, has scored five career TDs against Washington, his most versus a single opponent.

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - SEPTEMBER 21: Ceedee Lamb #88 of the Dallas Cowboys looks on against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on September 21, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Carolina Panthers running back Chuba Hubbard will return Sunday against the New York Jets after a...

Carolina Panthers running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161910" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161910">Chuba Hubbard</a> will return Sunday against the New York Jets after a two-game absence, the team announced Friday.Hubbard started Carolina's first four games this season before sustaining a calf injury. With the one-time 1,000-rusher sidelined, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/110092" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/110092">Rico Dowdle</a> put on a show by amassing at least 200 yards and one touchdown from scrimmage in two straight contests.It remains unclear whether Carolina will go back to Hubbard as its leading tailback or keep feeding Dowdle, who registered 60 touches in his last two appearances.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Panthers head coach Dave Canales said Friday the team has already made an internal decision on who will get the majority of carries for Carolina against New York, but he won't publicly announce it, according to <a href="https://x.com/DNewtonespn/status/1979228056851206640">ESPN's David Newton</a>.Dowdle signed a one-year contract with Carolina in March after rushing for a career-high 1,079 yards with the Dallas Cowboys in 2024. Hubbard, who led the Panthers in rushing in each of the past two seasons, was limited at practice Wednesday and Thursday this week before becoming a full participant during Friday's session. Carolina is also welcoming back wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/200220" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/200220">Jalen Coker</a> versus the Jets. Coker had 478 yards and two touchdowns as an undrafted rookie last year but began the 2025 season on injured reserve due to a quad issue.

FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - SEPTEMBER 28: Chuba Hubbard #30 of the Carolina Panthers looks on during the NFL 2025 game between Carolina Panthers and New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium on September 28, 2025 in Foxborough, Massachusetts.

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Green Bay Packers linebacker Micah Parsons on Thursday expressed his frustrations with NFL offici...

Green Bay Packers linebacker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161667" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161667">Micah Parsons</a> on Thursday expressed his frustrations with NFL officials this season.There has been a notable lack of holding penalties called against blockers facing Parsons during his career. He once had an 11-game stretch without getting a single holding call as a member of the Dallas Cowboys, according to <a href="https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/micah-parsons-sounds-off-on-officiating-when-asked-about-lack-of-holding-calls">Pro Football Talk's Charean Williams</a>."Five years of not getting a call, you eventually stop worrying about it," Parsons told reporters, including <a href="https://x.com/mattschneidman/status/1978920707074535816">The Athletic's Matt Schneidman</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>He added, "That's the part of being one of the best. It comes with parts that you hate, parts that the league lets go. You can tell how they call the games. They don't call offsides for offense, but they'll call it on defense. They won't call offensive pass interference, but they'll call defensive pass interference immediately. We know what they're trying to do. They wanna load the points up so fans can be happy. They'll call defensive holding, but they won't call offensive holding. Let's just wake up."Videos showing Parsons being held during his first five games as a Packer have gone viral recently. The 26-year-old ranks fourth in the NFL with 29 pressures this season, according to PFF, but he's registered only 2.5 sacks. He's also being double-teamed at the <a href="https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-chip-and-double-team-rates-ranking-the-defensive-linemen-who-overcome-extra-attention">second-highest rate</a> among edge rushers, behind only <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/87669" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/87669">Myles Garrett</a>.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🧀 Micah Parsons won’t complain about it…but someone has to! <a href="https://t.co/aorECbdXhq">pic.twitter.com/aorECbdXhq</a>— CheeseheadTV 🧀 (@cheeseheadtv) <a href="https://twitter.com/cheeseheadtv/status/1978178452063769009?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The Cincinnati Bengals weren't flagged for offensive holding on any of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/2945" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/2945">Joe Flacco</a>'s 46 dropbacks against the Packers in Week 6."That's definitely going to be a conversation pregame," Green Bay head coach Matt LaFleur said of officials failing to call such penalties, according to <a href="https://x.com/ByRyanWood/status/1978856190294536359">USA Today's Ryan Wood</a>.On Sunday, the Packers will visit the Arizona Cardinals, who have been called for offensive holding 10 times this season, the <a href="https://www.nflpenalties.com/penalty/offensive-holding?view=team&amp;year=2025">sixth-highest mark</a> in the NFL.

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - SEPTEMBER 28: Tyler Guyton #60 of the Dallas Cowboys works against Micah Parsons #1 of the Green Bay Packers during a game at AT&T Stadium on September 28, 2025 in Arlington, Texas.

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Packers' Parsons frustrated with lack of holding calls, criticizes refs

New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara made it clear that he doesn't want to play for anoth...

New Orleans Saints running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/78282" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/78282">Alvin Kamara</a> made it clear that he doesn't want to play for another team as the NFL's Nov. 4 trade deadline approaches, hinting that he'd retire to nix a move."I don't want to go anywhere, and I've said it countless times. Y'all know that, I think everybody knows that, the fan base knows that," Kamara said Thursday, according to <a href="https://x.com/ByLukeJohnson/status/1978933492466470973">Luke Johnson of the New Orleans Times-Picayune</a>."If I was a GM, I guess I would go to the player and say, 'Hey, we're trading you, just so you know.' So if (general manager) Mickey (Loomis) comes down and says that, I'm going to go drink a piña colada somewhere."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Kamara is considered a potential trade target along with other Saints veterans. The 30-year-old, who's been with the team since 2017, is on pace to top 1,100 scrimmage yards for the ninth straight year. New Orleans, however, is expected to sell at the trade deadline amid a 1-5 start to the season.It's been <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3366045" href="https://thescore.com/news/3366045">reported</a> that Loomis recently met with Kamara to let the five-time Pro Bowler know about outside interest in him. He downplayed the report Thursday."We talked about and we were looking at each other like the little Spider-Man meme, like, 'Did you say something? Did I say something?' I don't know where that came from," Kamara said.The 2017 Offensive Rookie of the Year has been one of the NFL's most consistent running backs since entering the league as a third-round pick. He's the Saints' all-timer leader in total touchdowns (87) and rushing yards (7,093). The Tennessee product has rushed for 314 yards (3.8 per carry) and one TD in 2025.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - OCTOBER 12: Alvin Kamara #41 of the New Orleans Saints runs with the ball against the New England Patriots during the NFL 2025 game at Caesars Superdome on October 12, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana.""

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Kamara: I'll 'go drink a piña colada somewhere' if Saints trade me

Indiana is rewarding head coach Curt Cignetti with an eight-year contract extension that includes...

Indiana is rewarding head coach Curt Cignetti with an eight-year contract extension that includes an annual salary of approximately $11.6 million, the school announced Thursday.Cignetti, the 2024 Coach of the Year, is now under contract through Nov. 30, 2033."Put simply, Cig is a winner," Indiana University president Pamela Whitten said in a statement. "From last year's College Football Playoff appearance to this year's top-three national ranking, the IU football program's success has been tremendous. Curt and Manette Cignetti are home in Indiana, and we are delighted that the Cignetti family will be Hoosiers for many years to come."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 64-year-old has done an impeccable job since joining Indiana prior to the 2024 season, following multiple winning campaigns at James Madison. He's posted a 17-2 record with the Hoosiers, including a 6-0 mark in 2025. Cignetti led the team to a College Football Playoff appearance last season.Indiana sits No. 3 in the latest AP Top 25, the highest football ranking in school history.Cignetti was rumored to be an obvious potential target for several major programs seeking a new head coach for next year, including Penn State.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Source tells IndyStar Cignetti's new contract increases the buyout should another school want to hire him to $15 million. It would have fallen to $10 million after Dec. 1 according to the terms of his previous deal. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/iufb?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#iufb</a>— Zach Osterman (@ZachOsterman) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZachOsterman/status/1978927093145604180?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The Hoosiers, coming off a statement victory over Oregon, return to action Saturday against Michigan State.

EUGENE, OREGON - OCTOBER 11: Head coach Curt Cignetti of the Indiana Hoosiers looks onto the field during the second half against the Oregon Ducks at Autzen Stadium on October 11, 2025 in Eugene, Oregon.

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Indiana signs Cignetti to 8-year extension with $11.6M annual salary

The New York Giants might be buyers at the trade deadline.  New York is aggressively looking to a...

The New York Giants might be buyers at the trade deadline.New York is aggressively looking to add a new wide receiver ahead of the NFL's Nov. 4 deadline, sources told <a href="https://sny.tv/articles/giants-big-game-hunting-receiver-ahead-nfl-trade-deadline">SNY's Connor Hughes</a>. The Giants are "big-game hunting," according to Hughes.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/173997" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/173997">Chris Olave</a> of the New Orleans Saints, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161646" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161646">Jaylen Waddle</a> of the Miami Dolphins, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/98130" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/98130">Jakobi Meyers</a> of the Las Vegas Raiders are reportedly among New York's top potential targets.Miami and New Orleans have a combined 2-10 record this season and are projected to be sellers. Meyers, who's in the last year of his contract, requested a trade in August, but Las Vegas opted to keep him. However, some teams around the league believe the Raiders are open to moving the 28-year-old now, <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/46584393/nfl-week-7-buzz-news-updates-fantasy-intel-questions-predictions">ESPN's Jeremy Fowler and Dan Graziano</a> report.The Giants are only 2-4 this season but have won two of their past three games, most recently taking down the Philadelphia Eagles on Thursday Night Football. Rookie quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/209911" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209911">Jaxson Dart</a> has provided the team with a spark in his first three starts, and adding a quality wideout would help with his development.New York lost <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199759" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199759">Malik Nabers</a>, its leading receiver in 2024, to a torn ACL on Sept. 29. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174083" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174083">Wan'Dale Robinson</a> leads the club with 29 catches, 351 yards, and two touchdown receptions. The team also rosters <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188185" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188185">Jalin Hyatt</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/107707" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/107707">Lil'Jordan Humphrey</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/98376" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/98376">Darius Slayton</a>, who is dealing with a hamstring injury.

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - AUGUST 16: Head coach Brian Daboll of the New York Giants looks on before a NFL Preseason 2025 game between New York Jets and New York Giants at MetLife Stadium on August 16, 2025 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

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Report: Giants aggressively looking to trade for WR

Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones remains optimistic despite his team's 2-3-1 record and defensive...

Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones remains optimistic despite his team's 2-3-1 record and defensive concerns this season.Jones explained his optimism by mentioning the Washington Commanders' loss to the Chicago Bears on Monday. The NFC East's top two teams this year - the Commanders and Philadelphia Eagles - both lost in Week 6."It just reminded me that we are still in it," Jones said Tuesday, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/46595803/cowboys-says-jones-open-defensive-trade">ESPN's Todd Archer</a>. "I see much parity, and then you factor in that these teams get compromised with injury - we can have and may (have it too) - but if we should have some good go of it here over the next weeks ahead with our injury situation and return of injury, and we can get some wins ..."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>He added, "The last thing that I'm thinking about is in any way being out of the hunt."Dallas is coming off a 30-27 loss to the Carolina Panthers. The Cowboys rank third in points scored, but their defense places 31st in points allowed. The club, which traded linebacker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161667" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161667">Micah Parsons</a> to the Green Bay Packers before Week 1, is also dead last in EPA/play defensively.Jones said he's open to potentially acquiring a defensive player before the Nov. 4 trade deadline."If there is a trade that would help the defense, we're in position to make that trade," said Jones, whose team currently has $31 million in salary-cap space, according to Archer.The Cowboys are third in the division behind the 4-2 Eagles and 3-3 Commanders. Dallas hosts Washington on Sunday.The fourth-place New York Giants moved to 2-4 last week by handing Philadelphia its second consecutive defeat.

ARLINGTON, TX - AUGUST 22: Dallas Cowboys owner and GM Jerry Jones mingles with fans before the preseason game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Atlanta Falcons on August 22, 2025 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

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Jerry Jones: Cowboys 'still in it'

Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. believes the Atlanta Falcons made a statement by taking down the Bu...

Quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199749" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199749">Michael Penix Jr.</a> believes the Atlanta Falcons made a statement by taking down the Buffalo Bills on Monday Night Football."It showed that we're one of the ones," Penix said about Monday's triumph, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/46589362/michael-penix-jr-win-bills-shows-falcons-legit">ESPN's Marc Raimondi</a>. "This team is really good. This team is really legit."The Falcons looked solid on both sides of the ball, limiting <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/94699" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/94699">Josh Allen</a> to 180 passing yards while intercepting the NFL MVP twice and sacking him four times en route to a 24-14 victory.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Offensively, running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188153" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188153">Bijan Robinson</a> finished with 238 scrimmage yards, including 170 yards on the ground. Penix completed 20 of 32 pass attempts for 250 yards and one touchdown with no interceptions. His favorite target again was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/173995" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/173995">Drake London</a>, who caught 10 passes for 158 yards and one TD."I feel like we have more in the tank," Penix added. "It is going to be a scary sight whenever we figure it out and all play together and play a full game and not just one good half."Atlanta scored only three points in the second half versus Buffalo, but it was enough thanks to a convincing 21-7 lead built in the first two quarters."We want to be a playoff organization," Falcons coach Raheem Morris said. "We want to be able to go compete in those types of games, and we played one tonight."Morris also reiterated his opinion about Robinson after the tailback added another incredible performance to his 2025 season."He's the best player in football," Morris said.The 3-2 Falcons visit the 4-2 San Francisco 49ers on Sunday.

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - OCTOBER 13: Michael Penix Jr. #9 of the Atlanta Falcons runs onto the field prior to the game against the Buffalo Bills at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on October 13, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia.

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Penix: MNF win over Bills shows Falcons are 'really legit'

San Francisco 49ers linebacker Fred Warner will need surgery after suffering a dislocated and bro...

San Francisco 49ers linebacker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/89985" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/89985">Fred Warner</a> will need surgery after suffering a dislocated and broken ankle during Sunday's 30-19 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, head coach Kyle Shanahan announced.The gruesome injury, which forced Warner to leave on a cart in the first quarter, is expected to sideline him for the remainder of the season.Warner is a cornerstone of San Francisco's defense, having claimed three straight first-team All-Pro nods. The 28-year-old entered Sunday with 50 tackles (two for loss), three pass breakups, and two forced fumbles this year.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 2018 third-round pick has missed just one game due to injury during his NFL career (in 2021).Injuries have been a major concern for the 49ers. San Francisco, which is now 4-2, faced the Bucs without quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174189" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174189">Brock Purdy</a>, tight end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/72637" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/72637">George Kittle</a>, defensive end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/111907" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/111907">Nick Bosa</a>, and wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199752" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199752">Ricky Pearsall</a>, among others.With Warner sidelined, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199983" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199983">Tatum Bethune</a> will presumably take on a bigger workload at linebacker while playing alongside <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188310" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188310">Dee Winters</a> in the middle of the Niners' defense.

TAMPA, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 12: Fred Warner #54 of the San Francisco 49ers is carted off of the field after being injured during the first quarter against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the game at Raymond James Stadium on October 12, 2025 in Tampa, Florida.

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49ers' Warner likely out for season with broken, dislocated ankle

Carolina Panthers running back Rico Dowdle addressed his spectacular performance against the Dall...

Carolina Panthers running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/110092" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/110092">Rico Dowdle</a> addressed his spectacular performance against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday with a viral quote after his actions matched his words versus his former team."They wasn't buckled up," Dowdle said after Carolina's 30-27 victory over Dallas.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Panthers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Panthers</a> RB Rico Dowdle on his former <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cowboys?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cowboys</a> team after posting 239 yards: “They wasn’t buckled up.” <a href="https://t.co/TurWOULUaU">pic.twitter.com/TurWOULUaU</a>— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) <a href="https://twitter.com/MySportsUpdate/status/1977478397073756274?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Dowdle's remarks come days after he sent a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3362141" href="https://thescore.com/news/3362141">warning shot</a> to the Cowboys, saying they needed to "buckle up" for the matchup.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Dowdle carried the ball 30 times for 183 yards Sunday. He also caught four passes for 56 yards and a touchdown to set a Panthers single-game record for scrimmage yards (239) and become the first NFL player since 2020 to have at least 200 yards from scrimmage in consecutive games."Violence, super explosive," Panthers quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188155" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188155">Bryce Young</a> said of Dowdle's playing style, according to <a href="https://x.com/DNewtonespn/status/1977477406815646045">ESPN's David Newton</a>.Dowdle, whose workload increased after Carolina lost <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161910" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161910">Chuba Hubbard</a> to an injury, racked up 234 scrimmage yards and a TD in last week's win over the Miami Dolphins.The 27-year-old spent five years with the Cowboys after joining as an undrafted rookie in 2020. He signed a one-year deal with the Panthers in March.

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - OCTOBER 12: Rico Dowdle #5 of the Carolina Panthers carries the ball during the second quarter against the Dallas Cowboys in the game at Bank of America Stadium on October 12, 2025 in Charlotte, North Carolina.

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Dowdle gets revenge in win vs. Cowboys: 'They wasn't buckled up'

The Baltimore Ravens believe injured quarterback Lamar Jackson will return to action after their ...

The Baltimore Ravens believe injured quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97162" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97162">Lamar Jackson</a> will return to action after their bye next week, head coach John Harbaugh announced."That's the hope," Harbaugh said Sunday, according to <a href="https://x.com/jonas_shaffer/status/1977467073866650018">Jonas Shaffer of The Baltimore Banner</a>.Jackson sustained a hamstring injury Sept. 28 and has missed two games, including Sunday's 17-3 loss to the Los Angeles Rams that dropped the Ravens to 1-5 this season. Baltimore hosts the Chicago Bears on Oct. 26 following its Week 7 bye.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/65598" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/65598">Cooper Rush</a> has struggled while replacing Jackson. Baltimore also played quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/105226" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/105226">Tyler Huntley</a> in the second half versus the Rams. Rush and Huntley combined to complete 21 of 34 passes for 117 yards and no touchdowns against one interception in the latest outing.Many fans at M&amp;T Bank Stadium expressed their frustration with Baltimore's performance and left the stadium early."We know it's rough right now. They want to see a good product," running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/72385" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/72385">Derrick Henry</a> <a href="https://x.com/jonas_shaffer/status/1977469120942682597">said</a> postgame.Jackson is one of multiple key Ravens starters battling injuries this year. Harbaugh said he also expects linebacker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97808" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97808">Roquan Smith</a> (hamstring) to return against the Bears, according to <a href="https://x.com/jeffzrebiec/status/1977466862050119861">The Athletic's Jeff Zrebiec</a>.

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - SEPTEMBER 28: Lamar Jackson #8 of the Baltimore Ravens greets players following the 37-20 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs following the NFL 2025 game between Baltimore Ravens and Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium on September 28, 2025 in Kansas City, United States.

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Penn State has fired longtime head coach James Franklin, the school announced Sunday.  Franklin's...

Penn State has fired longtime head coach James Franklin, the school announced Sunday.Franklin's buyout is more than $48 million, according to <a href="https://www.on3.com/news/james-franklin-buyout-details-of-penn-state-head-coachs-contract/">On3's Pete Nakos</a>. He was under contract through the 2031 season after signing a 10-year extension in '21.The 53-year-old built a competitive team after joining Penn State in 2014. He leaves the program with a 104-45 record highlighted by a Big Ten title in 2016. The Nittany Lions, who began this year's campaign as the nation's second-ranked team, made the College Football Playoff last season and beat SMU and Boise State before losing to Notre Dame in the semifinal.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Franklin's Nittany Lions notably fell short in their biggest games, going 4-21 against top-10 opponents under his watch. The team started the 2025 campaign 3-0 but has since lost three in a row."Penn State owes an enormous amount of gratitude to coach Franklin, who rebuilt our football program into a national power, Penn State athletic director Patrick Kraft said in a statement. "He won a Big Ten championship, led us to seven New Year's Six bowl games and a College Football Playoff appearance last year. However, we hold our athletics programs to the highest of standards, and we believe this is the right moment for new leadership at the helm of our football program to advance us toward Big Ten and national championships."Penn State's losing streak began against top-10 foe Oregon at home. Franklin's outfit followed that by dropping its matchup with then-winless UCLA and most recently falling to Northwestern 22-21 on Saturday. The Nittany Lions also lost quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/171465" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/171465">Drew Allar</a> to a season-ending injury versus the Wildcats.Associate head coach Terry Smith will serve as Penn State's interim head coach for the remainder of the season. The team will visit Iowa next in Week 8.

STATE COLLEGE, PENNSYLVANIA - OCTOBER 11: Head Coach James Franklin of the Penn State Nittany Lions looks on during the fourth quarter against the Northwestern Wildcats at Beaver Stadium on October 11, 2025 in State College, Pennsylvania.

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Penn State fires Franklin amid 3-game skid

Cincinnati Bengals head coach Zac Taylor said he's excited to move forward with Joe Flacco after ...

Cincinnati Bengals head coach Zac Taylor said he's excited to move forward with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/2945" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/2945">Joe Flacco</a> after the veteran quarterback arrived in a trade with the Cleveland Browns on Tuesday.Taylor officially named Flacco the starter for Sunday's game against the Green Bay Packers."Brings great experience, great leadership. His style fits our style," Taylor said Wednesday, according to <a href="https://x.com/KelseyLConway/status/1975969890432581756">Kelsey Conway of the Cincinnati Enquirer</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"Excited to get him out there. ... He's going to take all of the reps, get ready to go."The Bengals acquired Flacco from the Cleveland Browns for a late-round pick swap. Cincinnati's offense has been struggling with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/93471" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/93471">Jake Browning</a> replacing an injured <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97638" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97638">Joe Burrow</a>. Browning, who started three games this season, has passed for six touchdowns against eight interceptions.The Bengals started the 2025 campaign with a 2-0 record but have lost three in a row without Burrow, who'll remain sidelined until at least December.Flacco started four games for the Browns but lost the QB1 role to rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/209984" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209984">Dillon Gabriel</a> before last week's matchup. The 40-year-old has two touchdown passes against six picks in 2025.However, the former Super Bowl MVP has shown signs that he's got something left in the tank, claiming the 2023 Comeback Player of the Year award after signing with Cleveland midseason. Flacco posted a 90.4 passer rating with the Browns and Indianapolis Colts in 2023-24.

CLEVELAND, OHIO - SEPTEMBER 21: Joe Flacco #15 of the Cleveland Browns warms up against the Green Bay Packers at Huntington Bank Field on September 21, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio.

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Taylor confirms Flacco as Bengals' starter: 'His style fits our style'

Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski didn't confirm whether Shedeur Sanders will serve as ...

Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski didn't confirm whether <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/210099" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/210099">Shedeur Sanders</a> will serve as the team's backup quarterback in the aftermath of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/2945" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/2945">Joe Flacco</a> being traded to the Cincinnati Bengals.Flacco started the season as the Browns' QB1 but lost the role to rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/209984" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209984">Dillon Gabriel</a> last week. Flacco was Gabriel's immediate backup against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, while Sanders once again served as the emergency third-string passer.Following the Flacco trade Tuesday, many expected Sanders to move up the depth chart as the only other signal-caller on the club's active roster. The Browns also have <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174128" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174128">Bailey Zappe</a> on their practice squad.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"All roster type of things, I always have to be mindful of our players and our players' development," Stefanski said Wednesday when asked about Cleveland's QB2 role, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/46531899/browns-coach-noncommittal-sanders-being-qb2-flacco-trade">ESPN's Daniel Oyefusi</a>. "And I want to make sure that I'm always doing what's best for our players and, of course, our team."But with young players, I'm always thinking about - last week, making the change to Dillon, you have to think long and hard about that because these are young players that you are so invested in their development. So, I'll let the decision play out (and) make a decision later."The Browns drafted Gabriel during the third round in April before taking Sanders in Round 5. Sanders entered the 2025 draft as one of the top QB prospects but shockingly fell to pick No. 144. He has yet to attempt a regular-season pass in the league.

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - SEPTEMBER 14: Shedeur Sanders #12 of the Cleveland Browns warms up before an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on September 28, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan.

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Browns noncommittal on Shedeur as backup QB after Flacco trade

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