Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson will make his return to the lineup for Thursday's game...

Baltimore Ravens quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97162" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97162">Lamar Jackson</a> will make his return to the lineup for Thursday's game against the Miami Dolphins.Jackson, who missed the Ravens' previous three games after sustaining a hamstring injury, did not have a designation on the team's final injury report after being a full participant in practice throughout the week.More to come. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Check back for updates.

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - SEPTEMBER 14: Lamar Jackson #8 of the Baltimore Ravens warms up prior to a game against the Cleveland Browns at M&T Bank Stadium on September 14, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland.

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Lamar returning for TNF vs. Dolphins after 3-game absence

The New England Patriots are trading safety Kyle Dugger to the Pittsburgh Steelers, sources told ...

The New England Patriots are trading safety <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/149401" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/149401">Kyle Dugger</a> to the Pittsburgh Steelers, sources told <a href="https://x.com/TomPelissero/status/1983313853359501397">NFL Network's Tom Pelissero</a>. New England is sending the veteran defensive back and a 2026 seventh-round pick to Pittsburgh in exchange for a 2026 sixth-rounder. Dugger was a mainstay on the Patriots' defense since being selected in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft. However, the 29-year-old dropped down the depth chart under head coach Mike Vrabel. He started four of seven games this season, recording 12 tackles. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Lenoir-Rhyne University product signed a four-year, $58-million contract extension with New England in April 2024, per <a href="https://overthecap.com/player/kyle-dugger/8777">Over the Cap</a>. The Patriots will pay most of the $5.4 million remaining on Dugger's base salary for the 2025 season, a source told <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/1983354679854596470">NFL Network's Ian Rapoport</a>. The 29-year-old will become a free agent next offseason after the final two years of his contract were wiped out.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/93811" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/93811">Jaylinn Hawkins</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/210065" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/210065">Craig Woodson</a> played most of the snaps at safety for the Patriots this season.The Steelers bolster their defensive secondary with the addition of Dugger. Pittsburgh is reportedly placing safety <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/99761" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/99761">DeShon Elliott</a> on injured reserve, per <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/1983319374045024425">Rapoport</a>.The Patriots have been active ahead of the NFL trade deadline. New England reportedly traded defensive end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188122" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188122">Keion White</a> to the San Francisco 49ers in exchange for a late-round pick swap in the 2026 draft, per <a href="https://x.com/TomPelissero/status/1983304196100370466">Pelissero</a>.

FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - SEPTEMBER 21: Kyle Dugger #23 of the New England Patriots runs during an NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Gillette Stadium on September 21, 2025 in Foxborough, Massachusetts.

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Report: Patriots trading Dugger to Steelers 

Quarterback Lamar Jackson sees little margin for error if the 2-5 Baltimore Ravens intend to make...

Quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97162" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97162">Lamar Jackson</a> sees little margin for error if the 2-5 Baltimore Ravens intend to make a playoff push."Coach (John Harbaugh) touched on that with us in a team meeting: Each and every game is going to be like a win-or-go home game," Jackson said Tuesday, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/46760787/lamar-jackson-says-every-game-now-do-die-ravens">ESPN's Jamison Hensley</a>. "It's do-or-die right now, each and every week."Jackson has missed three games since sustaining a right hamstring injury against the Kansas City Chiefs on Sept. 28. Harbaugh expects him to return to the lineup against the Dolphins on Thursday.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"I feel very confident about it," the coach <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/46749883/baltimore-ravens-qb-lamar-jackson-expected-return-hamstring-injury-thursday-miami-dolphins">said</a> Monday.Jackson said his hamstring "feels great," and the Ravens listed him as a full participant in practice this week. The dual-threat quarterback doesn't expect to be hindered ahead of his possible return."That's what practice is for," Jackson said. "I feel like we had a great day today. We'll execute tomorrow. Come Thursday night, we'll just fly."While sidelined due to injury, Jackson displayed his leadership behind the scenes. The 28-year-old instructed the team's head equipment manager to remove recreational amenities from the locker room."I told him to take all the games, pingpong, turn off the TVs - if we could have taken out the TVs, they'd have been out of here, too," he said. "I appreciate Mr. Steve (Bisciotti, team owner) for putting that in for us, but we had to focus. I wouldn't say people don't take the job seriously - don't get me wrong - but I didn't feel like it was time for that. We have a lot of work to do."Baltimore has posted a 1-2 mark without the two-time MVP this season. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/105226" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/105226">Tyler Huntley</a> led the team to a 30-16 win over the Chicago Bears last weekend. The Ravens enter Thursday's prime-time matchup third in the AFC North.Jackson passed for 869 yards, 10 touchdowns, and one interception before his injury, earning a 130.5 passer rating.

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - OCTOBER 26: Lamar Jackson #8 of the Baltimore Ravens looks on from the sideline prior to the first quarter of the game against the Chicago Bears at M&T Bank Stadium on October 26, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland.

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Lamar: Every game is 'do-or-die' for Ravens now

Denver Broncos star cornerback Pat Surtain II is expected to miss four-to-six weeks due to a pect...

Denver Broncos star cornerback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161642" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161642">Pat Surtain II</a> is expected to miss four-to-six weeks due to a pectoral injury, sources told <a href="https://x.com/Schultz_Report/status/1982948711824240656">NFL insider Jordan Schultz</a>.The reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year will seek a second opinion this week to confirm his injury timeline.Surtain is expected to be a candidate for injured reserve, which would keep him out a minimum of four games. Denver is set to play the Houston Texans on Sunday, followed by matchups against the Las Vegas Raiders, Kansas City Chiefs, and Washington Commanders.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The fifth-year pro appeared to sustain the injury while attempting to tackle Dallas Cowboys receiver George Pickens in the second quarter of Sunday's game. He appeared to be in apparent pain as he walked back to Denver's locker room and didn't return for the remainder of the team's 44-24 victory.Prior to the pectoral injury, Surtain briefly exited the contest with a lower right leg injury before returning to action.Surtain, a two-time All-Pro, has been a productive fixture of a talented Denver defense. The 25-year-old recorded four interceptions during an impressive 2024 campaign. He's sat out only two games in his career, once during his rookie year in 2021 and once last season.In Surtain's absence, second-year cornerback Kris Abrams-Draine should get more playing time. The Missouri product, who filled in for Surtain on Sunday, could start across from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188102" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188102">Riley Moss</a>, with rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/209907" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209907">Jahdae Barron</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174674" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174674">Ja'Quan McMillian</a> filling out the depth chart.

LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 12: Pat Surtain II of Denver Broncos reacts after the NFL 2025 game between Denver Broncos and New York Jets at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on October 12, 2025 in London, England.

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Report: Surtain expected to miss 4-6 weeks with pectoral injury

Ole Miss head coach Lane Kiffin won't let money influence his future after being linked to multip...

Ole Miss head coach Lane Kiffin won't let money influence his future after being linked to multiple job vacancies in recent weeks."I have never made a decision based off money, nor will I. ... I've seen too many examples in life where money does not buy happiness," Kiffin said Monday on "<a href="https://x.com/PatMcAfeeShow/status/1982878257554043286">The Pat McAfee Show</a>."He added, "Jimmy Sexton (Kiffin's agent) gets really mad when I say that."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The sideline boss has emerged as one of the hottest names in a rapidly expanding coaching carousel. He's considered one of the top candidates for openings at Florida and LSU following the dismissals of Billy Napier and Brian Kelly, respectively.Kiffin, who's in his sixth season with the Rebels, owns a 51-19 record with the program. This year, the team is vying for its first appearance in the College Football Playoff as it sits 7-1 with four regular-season games remaining.Despite all the attention, the 50-year-old doesn't view his name being floated at other schools as a distraction to Ole Miss. He addressed the rumors with his players Friday, calling the situation a result of the team's success rather than just his coaching acumen."I told them, 'This is a product of how you guys play.' ... Fans are like, 'We want that system,' and they say 'coach,' but really, it's the system of the players and the assistant coaches and what a good job they do," Kiffin <a href="https://x.com/PatMcAfeeShow/status/1982869962814566706">said</a>.He added, "I think it's easier for (the players) nowadays because, remember, basically the same thing happens to them. They have a good game - what happens? Our freshman receiver has a good game Saturday night. He's got three calls from places telling him, 'Hey, come here, we'll give you more money.'"Kiffin's head coaching experience includes stints with Tennessee, USC, Florida Atlantic, and the Las Vegas Raiders.The Rebels will play South Carolina on Saturday.

ATHENS, GEORGIA - OCTOBER 18: Head coach Lane Kiffin of the Mississippi Rebels before a game between the Georgia Bulldogs and the Mississippi Rebels at Sanford Stadium on October 18, 2025 in Athens, Georgia.

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Kiffin: Decision on coaching future won't be 'based off money'

The New York Jets announced that Justin Fields will start at quarterback on Sunday against the Ci...

The New York Jets announced that <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161671" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161671">Justin Fields</a> will start at quarterback on Sunday against the Cincinnati Bengals after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/13236" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/13236">Tyrod Taylor</a> was ruled out due to a knee injury.Head coach Aaron Glenn declined to announce a starter when asked during the week whether Fields or Taylor would get the nod this weekend. The veteran backup replaced Fields during last week's loss to the Carolina Panthers after the first-year Jet completed just six passes for 46 yards in the opening half. Taylor was able to get the offense moving in the second half, but struggled to put points on the board after tossing a pair of interceptions.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Taylor was listed as questionable on the team's final injury report Friday after being a limited participant in practice all week. The veteran signal-caller dealt with knee issues during training camp. Owner Woody Johnson fuelled speculation about Fields' status as a starter earlier this week, criticizing the 26-year-old quarterback amid the team's 0-7 start.Rookie Brady Cook will serve as Fields' backup for the contest.

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 14: Justin Fields #7 of the New York Jets looks to pass during the NFL 2025 game between Buffalo Bills and New York Jets at MetLife Stadium on September 14, 2025 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

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Fields to start vs. Bengals after Taylor ruled out

The Baltimore Ravens ruled out quarterback Lamar Jackson for Sunday's game against the Chicago Be...

The Baltimore Ravens ruled out quarterback<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97162" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97162"> Lamar Jackson</a> for Sunday's game against the Chicago Bears, the team announced.Jackson will miss his third straight contest due to a hamstring injury. The Ravens expect their star quarterback to return in time for Thursday's game against the Miami Dolphins, sources told <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/1982119558136660186">EPSN's Adam Schefter</a>.Quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/105226" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/105226">Tyler Huntley</a>, elevated from the practice squad Friday, will start against the Bears. <a href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/65598">Cooper Rush</a> started the Ravens' last two games against the Houston Texans and Los Angeles Rams. Head coach John Harbaugh confirmed Friday that Huntley would get the starting nod if Jackson couldn't go, per <a href="https://www.baltimoreravens.com/news/injury-report-lamar-jackson-practices-ravens-bears">team reporter Ryan Mink</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The two-time MVP practiced in full on Friday after being a limited participant during the team's Wednesday and Thursday sessions. However, the Ravens downgraded Jackson's participation Friday from full participant to limited before ruling him out.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://t.co/2jQg4Ru0zM">pic.twitter.com/2jQg4Ru0zM</a>— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ravens/status/1982181932449288442?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 25, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The NFL plans to look into the Ravens' practice and participation situation surrounding Jackson's status, according to <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/1982185485628792888">NFL Network's Ian Rapoport</a>. The league reviews any matter that involves the change to a player's status on the injury report, per <a href="https://x.com/MikeGarafolo/status/1982185669326696788">NFL Network's Mike Garafolo</a>.Harbaugh declined to discuss Jackson's status earlier in the week."I just think we're going to talk about it as we go and figure out what we got to do to try to win the game," Harbaugh said, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/46711425/lamar-jackson-full-participant-ravens-practice">ESPN's Jamison Hensley</a>.Huntley's first start of the season arrives at a pivotal point in the campaign, as the Ravens are 1-5 after losing four consecutive games.Several other Baltimore players are set to return from injury this weekend, with <a href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97808">Roquan Smith</a> (hamstring), <a href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/62289">Patrick Ricard</a> (calf), and <a href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/67390">Ronnie Stanley</a> (ankle) expected to be available after missing time recently.

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - SEPTEMBER 22: Lamar Jackson #8 of the Baltimore Ravens warms up before the game against the Detroit Lions at M&T Bank Stadium on September 22, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland.

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Lamar out again, NFL to review change on injury report

Former Alabama head coach Nick Saban dismissed any speculation linking him to recent head coachin...

Former Alabama head coach Nick Saban dismissed any speculation linking him to recent head coaching openings in college football.Saban was adamant about not returning to the sidelines while appearing on Friday's "<a href="https://x.com/PatMcAfeeShow/status/1981777270911201551">Pat McAfee Show</a>," even joking about keeping his agent, Jimmy Sexton, away from his wife amid talk of massive potential salaries."I wanna stay retired," Saban said. "I do not want (Sexton) anywhere near Ms. Terry because when she hears some of these numbers, she gets interested. And I ain't interested."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Nine FBS programs have fired their head coaches during the 2025 campaign, with six of those openings among Power 4 programs. Notably, Penn State dismissed James Franklin on Oct. 12 after losing three straight games, before Florida fired Billy Napier last weekend in the midst of his fourth season with the Gators.Arkansas, Virginia Tech, and UCLA are among the other teams with head coach vacancies.Terry Saban gave a wry response during her appearance last week on <a href="https://x.com/CollegeGameDay/status/1979548938332950727">ESPN's College GameDay</a> when McAfee asked about her husband's interest in coaching again and posed whether he'd accept a $50-million-a-year offer from Penn State."I have no doubt, if Nick wanted to go back to coaching, he could win his eighth national championship, but we're having too much fun," she said."But I haven't heard a number yet."Saban, a seven-time national champion coach, retired following Alabama's 2023 season. The 73-year-old owns a 297-71-1 career record and has spent the past two years serving as an analyst on College GameDay.

College Football: ESPN Gameday host and former coach Nick Saban on the set prior to the North Carolina vs TCU game at Kenan Memorial Stadium. Chapel Hill, NC 9/1/2025 CREDIT: Erick W. Rasco (Set Number: X164764 TK1)

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Saban not interested in coaching comeback: 'I wanna stay retired'

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers says he doesn't hold any ill will toward the Green ...

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/747" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/747">Aaron Rodgers</a> says he doesn't hold any ill will toward the Green Bay Packers ahead of his first game against them since leaving the team in 2023."I don't have any animosity toward the organization," Rodgers told reporters Wednesday, including <a href="https://x.com/bepryor/status/1981078740353364036">ESPN's Brooke Pryor</a>. "Obviously, I wish that things had been better in our last year there, but I have a great relationship with a lot of people still in that organization. This is not a revenge game for me. I'm just excited to see some of those guys and be on Sunday Night Football again."Rodgers spent 18 seasons with the Packers after being selected 24th overall in the 2005 draft. The Cal product spent the first few years of his career biding his time behind Hall of Famer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/1271" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/1271">Brett Favre</a>. When he eventually got his turn, he took off and never looked back. He led Green Bay to multiple playoff appearances, including a Super Bowl XLV title.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Rodgers admitted he would've liked to "ride off into the sunset" after winning a second title with the Packers, but he saw that situation as unlikely after the team drafted quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/104659" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/104659">Jordan Love</a> in 2020.The veteran said communication issues with the Packers factored into his eventual trade to the New York Jets in April 2023. The four-time MVP holds plenty of Green Bay franchise records, chief among them being the all-time leader in career passing touchdowns."Absence makes the heart grow fonder, maybe. I have a lot of great memories from my time there. A lot of great interactions with fans over the years," Rodgers said. Packers head coach Matt LaFleur also downplayed the importance of Sunday's game and joked that Rodgers doesn't seem like a 41-year-old on the field."He looks like he can still do anything. What's surprising, for such an old man, he's still moving around pretty good too," LaFleur said Wednesday, according to <a href="https://packerswire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/packers/2025/10/22/packers-coach-matt-lafleur-sees-no-talent-regression-from-steelers-qb-aaron-rodgers/86838083007/">Packers Wire's Zach Cruse</a>.Rodgers has led the Steelers to a 4-2 record. The 10-time Pro Bowler is completing 68.6% of his passes for 1,270 yards, 14 touchdowns, and five interceptions through six games.

Dublin , Ireland - 28 September 2025; Quarterback Aaron Rodgers #8 of Pittsburgh Steelers during the 2025 NFL International Game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Minnesota Vikings at Croke Park in Dublin.

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Rodgers: SNF matchup against Packers 'not a revenge game'

Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski revealed that Shedeur Sanders isn't getting any first...

Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski revealed that <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/210099" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/210099">Shedeur Sanders</a> isn't getting any first-team reps in practice the way fellow rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/209984" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209984">Dillon Gabriel</a> did as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/2945" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/2945">Joe Flacco</a>'s backup."With a young quarterback, with Dillon starting, you want to make sure he gets a lot of the reps," Stefanski said Wednesday, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/46684384/stefanski-sanders-not-getting-starting-reps-gabriel">ESPN's Daniel Oyefusi</a>. "It's different when you have a veteran with Joe."Stefanski added that Sanders is getting reps "in a bunch of periods." The 23-year-old has been spotted throwing on a separate area of the field before practices, according to <a href="https://www.cleveland.com/browns/2025/10/shedeur-sanders-isnt-getting-first-team-reps-as-qb2-kevin-stefanski-says-but-still-plenty-of-others.html">Cleveland.com's Mary Kay Cabot</a>. He's also been spending extra time with Stefanski in the coach's office in the early morning, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/87669" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/87669">Myles Garrett</a> said on a podcast.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Sanders has been Gabriel's understudy in the two games since Cleveland traded Flacco to the Cincinnati Bengals. The Colorado product served as the No. 3 quarterback through the first five games of the season prior to Flacco's departure. He split scout team reps with Gabriel and practice squad member <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174128" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174128">Bailey Zappe</a> before the trade.Gabriel led the Browns to a 31-6 victory over the Miami Dolphins on Sunday for his first career win as a starter. The 2025 third-round selection has passed for 546 yards and three touchdowns with a 59.8% completion rate this season.

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - SEPTEMBER 14: Shedeur Sanders #12 of the Cleveland Browns looks to pass prior to an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium on September 14, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland.

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Browns not giving Shedeur starting reps behind Gabriel

The Miami Dolphins placed tight end Darren Waller on injured reserve Wednesday due to a pectoral ...

The Miami Dolphins placed tight end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/52575" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/52575">Darren Waller</a> on injured reserve Wednesday due to a pectoral injury.Waller exited the Dolphins' 31-6 loss to the Cleveland Browns last weekend in the second quarter and did not return. He had zero targets and catches prior to his exit. Miami signed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174023" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174023">Greg Dulcich</a> from the practice squad to the active roster to replace Waller while he's sidelined. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Waller, 33, missed the first three games of the season and most of training camp with a hip injury. He's been a bright spot for the Dolphins, hauling in 10 receptions for 117 yards and four touchdowns.He's also the latest player to join a large contingent of Dolphins starters on injured reserve. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/83498" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/83498">Tyreek Hill</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/121477" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/121477">Austin Jackson</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/83021" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/83021">Jason Sanders</a> are some of the most notable names.

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - OCTOBER 05: Darren Waller #83 of the Miami Dolphins looks on in the game against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium on October 05, 2025 in Charlotte, North Carolina.

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Dolphins' Waller placed on IR with pectoral injury

Kevin Durant put the blame for Tuesday's 125-124 season-opening loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a> put the blame for Tuesday's 125-124 season-opening loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on his own shoulders."I missed the free throws, and I fouled somebody at the end," Durant said, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/46680170/durant-pins-season-opening-loss-rockets-fall">ESPN's Michael C. Wright</a>. "I think those two plays are the reason we lost."Durant netted 23 points on 9-of-16 shooting in his Rockets debut. However, the future Hall of Famer believes two of his mistakes ultimately cost Houston the game.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 15-time All-Star missed a free throw with 9.5 seconds remaining in regulation. Making both of his free throws would have given the Rockets a three-point lead. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a> tied the game on the Thunder's next possession, pushing the matchup into overtime. In the second overtime, with Houston leading 124-123 and 2.3 seconds remaining, Gilgeous-Alexander baited Durant into committing his sixth foul, and the reigning MVP hit two game-winning free throws."I gotta be better. I gotta knock that free throw down," Durant said, per the <a href="https://www.houstonchronicle.com/sports/rockets/article/alperen-sengun-stats-thunder-kevin-durant-21111630.php">Houston Chronicle's Danielle Lerner</a>. "I gotta stay down, be more disciplined. Those opportunities to get a stop, to seal the game, they don't come around too often. So I got to take more advantage of those."The Rockets avoided a near catastrophe toward the end of the first overtime. Durant hauled in a rebound and appeared to signal a timeout that Houston didn't have. Crew chief Zach Zarba explained postgame that the Rockets star didn't receive a technical foul because the referees didn't see him signal for a timeout, per Wright."I think definitely he called timeout about three times - verbally and physically with his hands," Gilgeous-Alexander said postgame. "I think the refs just missed it, but that's life."Houston center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96113" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96113">Alperen Sengun</a> thrived on Opening Night, scoring a game-high 39 points to go along with 11 boards and seven assists. The All-Star big man believes the Rockets will only continue to improve."With (more) time, we're going to get better and better together," Sengun said.

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - OCTOBER 21: Kevin Durant #7 of the Houston Rockets looks on during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder on October 21, 2025 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Durant shoulders blame for Opening Night loss to Thunder

Auburn head coach Hugh Freeze admitted he'd be grateful for a public show of support from athleti...

Auburn head coach Hugh Freeze admitted he'd be grateful for a public show of support from athletic director John Cohen amid speculation about his job security."That would be huge," Freeze told reporters Monday, including <a href="https://x.com/RosieLangello/status/1980347307859100006">WSFA 12 News' Rosie Langello-Hodgens</a>. "That would make everyone feel a lot better, for sure."Freeze finds himself on the hot seat after Auburn dropped its fourth consecutive game following Saturday's 23-17 overtime loss to Missouri. The coach added he hasn't spoken with Cohen since the contest.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Tigers opened the 2025 campaign 3-0 but have struggled to earn their first win in SEC play. Sporting a 14-18 overall record across three seasons at Auburn, Freeze said he's confident he's still the right person to turn the team's fortunes around."I know how close we are. I know I can get this fixed," Freeze said. "We're too dang close, and we've got to get a little bit better play and a little bit better coaching in a few spots, and I want a chance to fix this."The coaching carousel has seen plenty of big names and coveted roles open in October, with Florida most recently parting ways with Billy Napier after a 3-4 start in his fourth year with the program.However, athletic directors from Florida State and Wisconsin released statements Monday supporting head coaches Mike Norvell and Luke Fickell, respectively, in response to rumors that the schools could dismiss them amid underwhelming results.Auburn plays on the road Saturday against Arkansas. The Razorbacks fired their head coach, Sam Pittman, in September.

COLLEGE STATION, TEXAS - SEPTEMBER 27: Head coach Hugh Freeze of the Auburn Tigers looks on during the first quarter against the Texas A&M Aggies at Kyle Field on September 27, 2025 in College Station, Texas.

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Freeze: Getting vote of confidence from Auburn AD would be huge

Rookie running back Ashton Jeanty voiced his frustration following the Las Vegas Raiders' 31-0 de...

Rookie running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/209906" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209906">Ashton Jeanty</a> voiced his frustration following the Las Vegas Raiders' 31-0 defeat to the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday."I don't work as hard as I do - and I don't think anybody else in this building does - to lose like that," Jeanty said, according to <a href="https://www.raiders.com/news/gutierrez-raiders-collapse-to-chiefs-raises-familiar-questions">team reporter Paul Gutierrez</a>. "So, if we're being honest, it's been a losing culture around here for a long time. But we have to continue to work to fix that and bring winning back here."The Raiders failed to generate offensive success versus the Chiefs, converting only three first downs against their division rivals. Kansas City racked up 434 total yards of offense compared to 95 for Las Vegas. Jeanty was held to 21 yards on six carries.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"Can't point a finger at the coaches for the scheme or another player for making a mistake," Jeanty said. "We've got to look inward and look how each and every single one of us can get better, to make sure that never happens again."The Boise State product was selected sixth overall in April's draft to help bolster the Raiders' offense. Through seven games, he's rushed for 445 yards and three touchdowns while averaging four yards per carry.Head coach Pete Carroll said the team will do some self-scouting during its bye week, according to <a href="https://x.com/PaulHGutierrez/status/1980334693863289237">Gutierrez</a>. He also indicated that help is on the way. Wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/98130" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/98130">Jakobi Meyers</a> (knee/toe) and tight end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199738" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199738">Brock Bowers</a> (knee) are expected to return to the Raiders' lineup following the week off. Edge rusher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/100596" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/100596">Maxx Crosby</a> is also likely to be healthy after leaving Sunday's game with a knee injury.

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - OCTOBER 5: Ashton Jeanty #2 of the Las Vegas Raiders looks on prior to an NFL football game against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium on October 5, 2025 in Indianapolis, IN.

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Jeanty laments 'losing culture' after Raiders drop to 2-5

Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young is expected to miss this Sunday's game against the Buff...

Carolina Panthers quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188155" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188155">Bryce Young</a> is expected to miss this Sunday's game against the Buffalo Bills after suffering a high ankle sprain, sources told <a href="https://x.com/TomPelissero/status/1980299385784373554">NFL Network's Tom Pelissero</a>.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/21441" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/21441">Andy Dalton</a> is in line to start against Buffalo after entering in relief of Young in Sunday's victory over the New York Jets.Young appeared to sustain the ankle injury in the third quarter of the Panthers' 13-6 win. He was spotted limping toward the locker room after being sacked and did not return for the remainder of the game. The 24-year-old exited after completing 15 of 25 passes for 138 yards and one touchdown.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Dalton completed 4 of 7 passes for 60 yards in relief of Young. The 37-year-old veteran has started six games for the Panthers over the past two seasons. Head coach Dave Canales told reporters Monday that Young is day-to-day as he works through the ankle sprain, according to <a href="https://x.com/SteveReedAP/status/1980328302717071471">The Associated Press' Steve Reed</a>. Canales also didn't rule out potentially bringing in a quarterback to back up Dalton if Young is unable to play Sunday. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188192" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188192">Hendon Hooker</a> is currently on Carolina's practice squad.Young has found his footing as the Panthers' starting quarterback in his third season after being benched for stretches of the 2024 campaign. The 2023 No. 1 overall pick has passed for 1,288 yards, 11 touchdowns, and five interceptions through seven games this season.The Panthers (4-3) are second in the NFC South behind the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - OCTOBER 12: Bryce Young #9 of the Carolina Panthers warms up prior to the game against the Dallas Cowboys at Bank of America Stadium on October 12, 2025 in Charlotte, North Carolina.

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Report: Young expected to miss game vs. Bills with ankle sprain

Florida State athletic director Michael Alford expressed support for head coach Mike Norvell on M...

Florida State athletic director Michael Alford expressed support for head coach Mike Norvell on Monday with the team on a four-game losing streak."Florida State football benefits from unmatched passionate support from the entire FSU family, and the commitment to our football program is unwavering," Alford said in a statement obtained by <a href="https://x.com/RossDellenger/status/1980271545550266697">Yahoo Sports' Ross Dellenger</a>. "We rightfully have high expectations in everything we do to represent Florida State in the manner that built our reputation as one of college football's best programs, cultivating an extraordinary group of supporters nationally and globally."We embrace those expectations while also sharing the deep disappointment when results on the field are short of that standard. As we continue to move forward this season, our comprehensive assessment of the football program will be completed at season's end. Meanwhile, we are fully committed to helping Coach Novell and the 2025 Seminoles strongly rebound in the coming weeks."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Norvell's status with the program came into question last season after the team posted a 2-10 record. In 2023, Florida State went 13-1 and narrowly missed out on a berth in the College Football Playoff.The Seminoles began their 2025 campaign with a stirring 31-17 win over Alabama and got off to a 3-0 start. They've since lost four straight games and haven't won against an ACC opponent in their last nine outings. Each of Florida State's losses this season were decided by one score.FSU would owe Norvell about $59.2 million if the school dismissed him this year, according to the <a href="https://www.tallahassee.com/story/sports/college/fsu/football/2025/10/18/mike-norvell-buyout-contract-fsu-football-fire-coach/86690286007/">Tallahassee Democrat's Dan Rorabaugh</a>. However, his contract requires him to pursue a market-rate salary right away if he gets fired, and the amount Florida State owes would be reduced by his new salary if he's hired elsewhere.The Seminoles play Wake Forest on Nov. 1 following a bye week.

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 20: Head coach Mike Norvell of the Florida State Seminoles looks on during the second half of a game against the Kent State Golden Flashes at Doak S. Campbell Stadium on September 20, 2025 in Tallahassee, Florida.

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Florida State remains 'fully committed' to Norvell amid 3-4 start

It won't be with Penn State, but James Franklin still has aspirations on winning college football...

It won't be with Penn State, but James Franklin still has aspirations on winning college football's biggest prize less than a week after being fired as the Nittany Lions head coach."I thought we were going to win a national championship there," Franklin said Saturday, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/46637281/james-franklin-plans-win-national-championship-elsewhere">ESPN's Jake Trotter</a>. "We were close. That goal hasn't changed. We're just going to go win a national championship somewhere else now."Penn State parted ways with Franklin after a stunning 0-3 start in Big Ten play. He revealed that he was "in shock" following his dismissal last weekend on the heels of back-to-back losses as massive favorites to UCLA and Northwestern. Athletic director Pat Kraft informed the coach that he was being fired prior to a team meeting last Sunday.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Franklin established a 104-45 record after coaching Penn State from 2014 to 2025. The 53-year-old guided the program to six double-digit win campaigns across 11 seasons. The Nittany Lions entered the 2025 season with heightened expectations after making it to the College Football Playoff semifinal last season. Penn State began 2025 ranked No. 2 in the Associated Press' Top 25 preseason rankings. Yet, the team fell slightly after an overtime loss to Oregon on Sept. 27 before plummeting out entirely with the losses to the Bruins and Wildcats.A major point of criticism during Franklin's tenure at Penn State was his 4-21 record against top-10 opponents, but he previously had won 34 straight games against unranked opponents. That ended with the UCLA and Northwestern setbacks.Franklin is owed $49 million from his buyout, the second largest in college football history behind Texas A&amp;M's $75-million payout to Jimbo Fisher. Despite his unceremonious exit from Penn State, Franklin is seeking another opportunity as soon as possible. "I don't know anything else," Franklin said. "I've been doing this for 30 years. I don't have hobbies. I don't golf. I don't fish. This has been such a big part of my identity, such a big part of my family. We love it."

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

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Franklin: We'll win title 'somewhere else' after Penn State firing

The Los Angeles Rams ruled star receiver Puka Nacua out for Sunday's game against the Jacksonvill...

The Los Angeles Rams ruled star receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188318" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188318">Puka Nacua</a> out for Sunday's game against the Jacksonville Jaguars in London due to an ankle sprain, head coach Sean McVay announced Friday, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/46626315/rams-mcvay-rules-star-wr-nacua-ankle-sunday-vs-jaguars">ESPN</a>.Nacua was injured in the Rams' 17-3 victory over the Baltimore Ravens while attempting to make a catch. He returned to the game in the second half but was not targeted for the remainder of the contest.The Rams were encouraged that Nacua's injury wouldn't be a long-term issue following scans of his ankle. He didn't participate in Wednesday's or Thursday's practice sessions at Camden Yards in Baltimore.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The BYU product has been electric this season. Nacua entered Week 7 leading the league in receptions with 54 and second in receiving yards with 616.Nacua will have two weeks to rehab his injury with the Rams' bye taking place after their trip across the pond. The club's next game is against the New Orleans Saints on Nov. 2. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/57482" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/57482">Davante Adams</a> could see more targets with Nacua sidelined this week. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199997" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199997">Jordan Whittington</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/53604" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/53604">Tyler Higbee</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174196" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174196">Kyren Williams</a> could also benefit from more looks in the passing game, and wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161866" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161866">Tutu Atwell</a> could be a factor as well despite battling through a hamstring injury.

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - OCTOBER 12: Puka Nacua #12 of the Los Angeles Rams runs with the ball after a reception during the second quarter against the Baltimore Ravens in the game at M&T Bank Stadium on October 12, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland.

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Rams' Nacua out vs. Jaguars due to ankle injury

Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa issued a public apology Wednesday for calling out his t...

Miami Dolphins quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/114411" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/114411">Tua Tagovailoa</a> issued a public apology Wednesday for calling out his teammates following Sunday's 29-27 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers."I've made a mistake, and I'm owning up to that right now," Tagovailoa said, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/46607089/tua-tagovailoa-apologizes-dolphins-teammates-comments">ESPN's Marcel Louis-Jacques</a>. "I've talked to guys on the team about it, talked to the leaders about it, and they know my heart. They know that the intent was right."When asked postgame how the Dolphins planned to boost team morale after their record dropped to 1-5, Tagovailoa was critical of his teammates for having poor attendance habits during players-only meetings.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"I think it starts with the leadership and helping articulate that for the guys," Tagovailoa <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3367047" href="https://thescore.com/news/3367047">said</a>. "And then what we're expecting out of the guys, right? We're expecting this. Are we getting that? Are we not getting that?"The 27-year-old explained Wednesday that he let his emotions get the best of him after the disappointing loss. Tagovailoa believes that he can learn from his mistake and that issues within the team should be kept in-house going forward."We talk a lot about, 'All right, we got to get this going, come in excited to go to work, forget about the noise.' And I feel like I just added onto that for our guys," Tagovailoa said.Head coach Mike McDaniel, who initially Monday <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3367933" href="https://thescore.com/news/3367933">called</a> Tagovailoa's comments "misguided," was more interested in looking ahead to the team's next game against the Cleveland Browns than dwelling on his quarterback's words."The first, last, and only thing, if I have anything to say about it - and I did in several meetings today - is the Cleveland Browns," McDaniel said, according to <a href="https://www.palmbeachpost.com/story/sports/nfl/dolphins/2025/10/15/miami-dolphins-mike-mcdaniel-tua-tagovailoa/86705664007/">The Palm Beach Post's Hal Habib</a>. "Absolutely, he communicated with his teammates, both group and individually, and there's much bigger fish to fry, in the team's opinion and my opinion."Several veteran players, such as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/103746" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/103746">Rasul Douglas</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199777" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199777">Patrick Paul</a>, declined to comment on Tagovailoa's remarks.

MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 12: Tua Tagovailoa #1 of the Miami Dolphins looks on from the field after an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Chargers at Hard Rock Stadium on October 12, 2025 in Miami Gardens, Florida.

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Tua apologizes for calling out teammates after loss to Chargers

New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel downplayed having any additional motivation ahead of ...

New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel downplayed having any additional motivation ahead of Sunday's game against his former team, the Tennessee Titans. "There will be too many things to focus on relating to the game," Vrabel said Wednesday, according to <a href="https://x.com/TDavenport_NFL/status/1978499471110500556">ESPN's Turron Davenport</a>. "There will be things that are interesting but not important to us in regards to the game that we need to play."Vrabel guided the Titans to a 54-45 record from 2018-23 and was named Coach of the Year after the club claimed the AFC's No. 1 seed in 2021. Tennessee captured the division title twice (2020, '21) and made it as far as the AFC Championship Game in three postseason appearances during his tenure.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Titans owner Amy Adams Strunk dismissed Vrabel after the 2023 campaign following back-to-back losing seasons. He returned to New England - where he starred as a linebacker - in January.Sunday's matchup marks the first time Vrabel will return to Nissan Stadium since his ouster. Yet, the 50-year-old is more focused on leading his team to its fifth win of the season than seeking vengeance against his former employer. He pushed back against the idea that his club would have added motivation to win following his unceremonious departure from the Titans."We're not trying to win one for the Gipper here," Vrabel said, according to <a href="https://x.com/PhilAPerry/status/1978517148344393864">NBC Sports Boston's Phil Perry</a>.The Titans don't plan to hold a tribute for Vrabel's return this weekend, according to reporter <a href="https://x.com/PaulKuharskyNFL/status/1978487852859011447">Paul Kuharsky</a>.The 4-2 Patriots sit atop the AFC East standings ahead of their matchup against the 1-5 Titans, who dismissed coach Brian Callahan six games into his second year with the franchise. Senior offensive assistant Mike McCoy was promoted to interim coach.The Patriots are off to the team's best start since 2019, and their current three-game winning streak is their longest since '22. Quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199741" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199741">Drake Maye</a> has developed into a rising star in Year 2. He tallied 289 total yards and three touchdowns in New England's 25-19 win over the New Orleans Saints last week. Defensively, the Patriots are allowing 20 points and 83.5 rushing yards per game.Despite the impressive start to his tenure as the Patriots' coach, Vrabel doesn't believe that holding the top spot in the division serves as affirmation of the team's success under his stewardship quite yet."They're not going to cancel the rest of the season," Vrabel added." That's not really our focus right now."

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - OCTOBER 12: Head coach Mike Vrabel of the New England Patriots reacts during the NFL 2025 game against the New Orleans Saints at Caesars Superdome on October 12, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana.""

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Patriots' Vrabel downplays 1st game vs. Titans since firing

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