Aidan O'Connell is "good to go" and expected to start Sunday's game against the Jacksonville Jagu...

Aidan O'Connell is "good to go" and expected to start Sunday's game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, head coach Antonio Pierce said Friday, per <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/43079516/raiders-qb-aidan-oconnell-good-go-vs-jaguars">ESPN's Paul Gutierrez</a>.O'Connell has been a full participant in practice this week after being carted off the field with what initially appeared to be a significant knee injury against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Dec. 8.The second-year passer missed the Raiders' game against the Atlanta Falcons on Monday. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174062" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174062">Desmond Ridder</a> got the starting nod in the 15-9 loss. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>O'Connell was named Las Vegas' starter in Week 6 after losing a training camp battle to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/94300" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/94300">Gardner Minshew</a>. A broken thumb on his throwing hand caused the Purdue product to miss four games following a matchup against the Los Angeles Rams. "I definitely have watched a lot more than I wanted to this year, from the sideline or from wherever, and so it's definitely been frustrating not being on the field," O'Connell said earlier this week. O'Connell has thrown for 899 yards, four touchdowns, and three interceptions with a 63.2% completion rate in his second season with the Raiders.Las Vegas will try to snap a 10-game losing streak against the Jaguars.

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - AUGUST 17: Quarterback Aidan O'Connell #12 of the Las Vegas Raiders warms up before a preseason game against the Dallas Cowboys at Allegiant Stadium on August 17, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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Raiders to start O'Connell against Jaguars

The Baltimore Ravens are waiving wide receiver Diontae Johnson, the team announced Friday.  Balti...

The Baltimore Ravens are waiving wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/102590" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/102590">Diontae Johnson</a>, the team announced Friday.Baltimore released Johnson after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3161836" href="https://thescore.com/news/3161836">excusing</a> him from team activities earlier this week.Johnson missed Baltimore's 35-14 win over the New York Giants while serving a one-game suspension for conduct detrimental to the team after refusing to enter a matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Ravens' acquisition of Johnson didn't go as planned. The 2021 Pro Bowl receiver made one catch for six yards in four games with Baltimore since being acquired from the Carolina Panthers in an Oct. 29 trade.Johnson will seek a fresh start elsewhere to close out his 2024 campaign. The veteran pass-catcher can be claimed off waivers prior to Monday at 4 p.m. ET, according to <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/1870213646783033807">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>.

INGLEWOOD, CA - NOVEMBER 25: Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Diontae Johnson (18) leaves the football field after the NFL game between the Baltimore Ravens and the Los Angeles Chargers on November 25, 2024, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, CA.

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Ravens place Diontae Johnson on waivers

USC star wide receiver Zachariah Branch and his brother, safety Zion Branch, are entering the tra...

USC star wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/190017" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/190017">Zachariah Branch</a> and his brother, safety <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/171900" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/171900">Zion Branch</a>, are entering the transfer portal, sources told <a href="https://x.com/PeteThamel/status/1869111988619821508">ESPN's Pete Thamel</a>. Zachariah, noted for his explosive speed, completed his second campaign with the Trojans this past year. He was tied for the team lead with 47 receptions this season and added 503 yards and one touchdown.The 5-foot-10, 175-pound wideout was a five-star signee in the Trojans' 2023 recruiting class, per the <a href="https://www.espn.com/college-sports/football/recruiting/player/_/id/246710/zachariah-branch">ESPN 300</a>. He made an immediate impact during his freshman season in 2023, recording 31 catches for 320 yards and two touchdowns while adding two more scores via special teams. He was named a freshman All-American.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The speedy wideout becomes the latest pass-catcher to leave the Trojans this offseason after <a href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/162686">Kyron Hudson</a> and <a href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/192149">Duce Robinson</a>. Quarterback <a href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/162553">Miller Moss</a> also entered the transfer portal, committing to Louisville this past weekend.Zion returned to the Trojans' lineup in 2024 after suffering a season-ending injury last year. He tallied 19 tackles, two tackles for loss, and one sack this season in his return to action.The siblings are expected to be a package deal at their next school.

LAS VEGAS, NV - SEPTEMBER 01: USC Trojans wide receiver Zachariah Branch (1) and USC Trojans safety Zion Branch (8) during the Modelo Vegas Kickoff Classic featuring the USC Trojans versus the LSU Tigers on September 1, 2024 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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Report: Zachariah Branch, brother Zion enter transfer portal

The Tennessee Titans are planning to make a change at quarterback before Sunday's game against th...

The Tennessee Titans are planning to make a change at quarterback before Sunday's game against the Indianapolis Colts, a source told ESPN's <a href="https://x.com/JFowlerESPN/status/1869107525930647964">Jeremy Fowler</a>.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/83531" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/83531">Mason Rudolph</a> is expected to get the starting nod over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188135" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188135">Will Levis</a>, barring any surprises, Fowler added.Titans coach Brian Callahan benched Levis during the team's 37-27 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals after his fourth turnover Sunday. While the move could spell the end of Levis competing for a starting role with the team, Callahan has said that a QB change wouldn't be an indictment of Levis' future in Tennessee.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Levis leads the league with four pick-6s among his 12 interceptions, and he's lost five of his eight fumbles this season. The Kentucky product has passed for 1,916 yards and 12 touchdowns while completing 63.7% of his pass attempts in 11 games. He missed some time with a sprained AC joint in his right throwing shoulder.Levis and the Titans have endured their struggles in a 3-11 campaign that has three weeks remaining. Tennessee would need to win out just to equal its record from a year ago that ultimately cost Mike Vrabel his job.

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE - OCTOBER 13: Will Levis #8 of the Tennessee Titans heads to the locker room at halftime during the game against the Indianapolis Colts at Nissan Stadium on October 13, 2024 in Nashville, Tennessee. The Colts defeated the Titans 20-17.

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Report: Titans planning to bench Levis ahead of game vs. Colts

The Cleveland Browns are expected to bench quarterback Jameis Winston and start Dorian Thompson-R...

The Cleveland Browns are expected to bench quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/64259" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/64259">Jameis Winston</a> and start <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188280" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188280">Dorian Thompson-Robinson</a> for Sunday's game against the Cincinnati Bengals, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/43026102/source-browns-start-thompson-robinson-qb-vs-bengals">ESPN's Daniel Oyefusi</a>.The Browns are making the reported change under center after head coach Kevin Stefanski was reluctant to name a starter following Cleveland's 21-7 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs this past weekend. Winston threw three interceptions before being replaced by Thompson-Robinson in the contest.Thompson-Robinson will be the third quarterback to start a game for the Browns this campaign. Winston led the club to a 2-5 record as a starter after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/84667" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/84667">Deshaun Watson</a> suffered a season-ending Achilles injury.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Turnovers have plagued Winston throughout the year, with the 2015 first overall pick throwing 12 interceptions in the last six games. He's also passed for 2,121 yards and 13 touchdowns this season.Thompson-Robinson has seen limited snaps this campaign, completing 15 of 34 passes for 100 yards, zero TDs, and three INTs in four contests.The Browns (3-11) will try to snap their three-game losing skid against Cincinnati.

CLEVELAND, OHIO - OCTOBER 20: Dorian Thompson-Robinson #17 of the Cleveland Browns throws a pass in the third quarter of a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Huntington Bank Field on October 20, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio.

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Report: Browns to start Thompson-Robinson vs. Bengals

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes is pushing himself to play Saturday against the Ho...

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/89514" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/89514">Patrick Mahomes</a> is pushing himself to play Saturday against the Houston Texans after sustaining a high ankle sprain in last week's win over the Cleveland Browns."That's the reason why you play this game, is to push to play. So I'll get to work in practice and try to push it to see where I can get to," Mahomes <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qvkbN94zoMM">said</a> Tuesday. "But at the end of the day, I'm not going to put our team in a bad position. So, if I feel like I can play and go out there and win a football game, I'll play." Mahomes was listed as a full participant in Tuesday's practice. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/58916" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/58916">Carson Wentz </a>will get the start if the Chiefs' starting QB is unavailable.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"If he can go, he'll go," Reid said. "If he can't, then he can't. It's that simple." The coach added that the team will take it day-by-day when it comes to Mahomes' status.The two-time league MVP shared Tuesday that the injury isn't as bad as the one he sustained two years ago against the Jacksonville Jaguars in the divisional round of the playoffs.The Chiefs (13-1) are first in the AFC and will earn a first-round bye if they hold on to their current seed."It's not like in the AFC Championship Game where we're playing to get to the Super Bowl. We have a little bit of room to kind of spare," Mahomes said. Mahomes is on pace to throw for the fewest yards (3,348) and touchdowns (22) since his rookie season in 2017.

CLEVELAND, OHIO - DECEMBER 15: Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs throws a pass against the Cleveland Browns during the second quarter at Huntington Bank Field on December 15, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio.

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Mahomes: I'll play vs. Texans 'if I feel like I can play'

The Washington Commanders will host the Atlanta Falcons on Dec. 29 on Sunday Night Football, repl...

The Washington Commanders will host the Atlanta Falcons on Dec. 29 on Sunday Night Football, replacing a matchup between the Miami Dolphins and Cleveland Browns.Cleveland will now play Miami at 4:05 p.m. ET.The league also announced a tripleheader that will air on NFL Network on Saturday, Dec. 28.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The slate will see the Los Angeles Chargers (8-6) play the New England Patriots (3-11) at 1 p.m. ET.The Cincinnati Bengals (6-8) will then host the Denver Broncos (9-5) at 4 p.m ET.A pivotal NFC West showdown between the Arizona Cardinals (7-7) and division-leading Los Angeles Rams (8-6) will be broadcast in prime time at 8 p.m ET.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The slate for the Week 17 Saturday Tripleheader on <a href="https://twitter.com/nflnetwork?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nflnetwork</a>! <a href="https://t.co/7hwBpdUvn2">pic.twitter.com/7hwBpdUvn2</a>— NFL (@NFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NFL/status/1869080466520977504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - DECEMBER 15: Jayden Daniels #5 of the Washington Commanders celebrates after throwing a pass for a touchdown during the second quarter against the New Orleans Saints] at Caesars Superdome on December 15, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

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Commanders-Falcons flexed to SNF on Dec. 29

Quarterback Caleb Williams gave a humbling response Monday after being asked to describe his rook...

Quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199760" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199760">Caleb Williams</a> gave a humbling response Monday after being asked to describe his rookie season following the Chicago Bears' 30-12 loss to the Minnesota Vikings."It's been frustrating and encouraging," Williams said, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/43017572/caleb-williams-sums-rookie-year-frustrating-encouraging-8th-straight-bears-loss">ESPN's Courtney Cronin</a>. "I would say the frustrating part is obviously we're on a - how many games now, eight? - yeah, eight-game losing streak. Like I've said before, it's new to me. I haven't experienced anything like this. That's the frustrating part. The encouraging part is how much we fight as a team."Williams appeared to be shaken up by a hit from Vikings linebacker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/85190" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/85190">Jihad Ward</a> in the fourth quarter. The Bears signal-caller remained on the ground for a few moments before getting back on his feet. Broadcast cameras appeared to show him in pain when he returned to the bench.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The USC product finished the contest completing 18 of 31 passes for 191 yards and one touchdown. After enduring a four-game stretch where he didn't pass for a TD, Williams has thrown for a score in each of his past four outings.The Bears surrendered two sacks, helping extend league-worst 58 for Williams with three games left in the season."Getting hit, especially when you can't deliver a hit to somebody as in like run the ball, you take those over an amount of time and it builds up," Williams said. The Bears have struggled to assemble any consistency on offense despite boasting talented receivers such as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97110" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97110">DJ Moore</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/44826" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/44826">Keenan Allen</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199761" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199761">Rome Odunze</a>. Chicago ranks 31st in passing yards (181.9) and total offense (289.6) per game.Williams has shown glimpses of the potential that had made him a coveted prospect this past spring. The 2024 first overall pick has thrown for 2,937 yards, 17 touchdowns, and five interceptions for a 87.7 passer rating. He's also rushed for 408 yards.After firing Matt Eberflus in late November, Chicago made Thomas Brown interim head coach less than three weeks after elevating him from passing game coordinator to offensive coordinator when Shane Waldron was dismissed.

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - DECEMBER 16: Caleb Williams #18 of the Chicago Bears walks off the field after losing to the Minnesota Vikings 30-12 at U.S. Bank Stadium on December 16, 2024 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

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Caleb Williams: Rookie year has been 'frustrating and encouraging'

Head coach Dan Campbell is refusing to let a rash of injuries become an excuse to derail the Detr...

Head coach Dan Campbell is refusing to let a rash of injuries become an excuse to derail the Detroit Lions' grand ambitions, delivering a passionate rant Tuesday on how his team should respond to adversity with three regular-season games remaining."You know what happens is, you win 11 in a row, and you lose and then the sky falls," Campbell said during an interview on <a href="https://x.com/971theticketxyt/status/1869026371156300249">97.1 The Ticket with Jim Costa and Jon Jansen</a>. " I hate to say it, but we're not going to win 11 in a row for the rest of the season."You know what happens is, you get used to eating filet, and I'm talking all of us, and everything is good. ... But you forgot what it was like when you had nothing, and you ate your f------g molded bread. And it was just fine, and it gave you everything you needed. And sometimes you got to get punched in the mouth and remember what it used to be like to really appreciate where you are."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Lions have compiled an impressive 12-2 record despite needing to overcome a slew of injuries throughout the campaign. Detroit's injury report only grew after the club snapped its 11-game winning streak in a 48-42 loss to the Buffalo Bills last weekend, announcing Monday that running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/112122" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/112122">David Montgomery</a> and defensive lineman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161881" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161881">Alim McNeill</a> suffered season-ending knee injuries in the contest.However, the Lions received some positive news on the injury front, with star pass-rusher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174006" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174006">Aidan Hutchinson</a> saying in a recent interview that he's on track to return for Super Bowl LIX if Detroit makes it, per <a href="https://x.com/PSchrags/status/1869039286194155835">NFL Network's Peter Schrager</a>. Hutchinson underwent surgery in October to repair a fractured tibia and fibula.The team also placed starters <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/87442" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/87442">Marcus Davenport</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/71457" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/71457">Alex Anzalone</a>, and Derrick Barnes on the injured reserve this year.Campbell said Tuesday that the Lions owe it to their injured teammates to finish the season on a strong note, adding that the absences of key players provide an "unbelievable opportunity" for others."We got (a) bad taste in our mouth. We got kicked around the other day. We lost a few guys. And you know what, it's exactly what we needed," Campbell said."We're going to put the best 11 on the field and freakin' cut it loose. ... I don't give a crap if we got to win by one point for the rest of the year, that's what we're going to do, and I'm going to be happy about it."The Lions hit the road for matchups against the Chicago Bears and San Francisco 49ers before closing out the regular season against the Minnesota Vikings at home on Jan. 5.

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - DECEMBER 05: Head coach Dan Campbell of the Detroit Lions reacts against the Green Bay Packers during the first quarter in the game at Ford Field on December 05, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan.

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Campbell: Lions have 'bad taste in our mouths' amid mounting injuries

Conor McGregor said Tuesday that he intends to delay his return to the UFC and has agreed to face...

Conor McGregor said Tuesday that he intends to delay his return to the UFC and has agreed to face Logan Paul in a boxing exhibition in India."The rumors of a bout with (Ilia) Topuria are false," McGregor posted on X. "I am in preliminary agreements with the Ambani family to face Logan Paul in a boxing exhibition in India. I have agreed. I will then seek my return to the Octagon."<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The rumors of a bout with topurio are false. I am in preliminary agreements with the Ambani family to face Logan Paul in a boxing exhibition in India. I have agreed. I will then seek my return to the Octagon.— Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheNotoriousMMA/status/1868946259165544560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>McGregor hasn't stepped inside the Octagon since breaking his leg in a bout against Dustin Poirier in July 2021. The former UFC two-division champion was in talks to fight Michael Chandler at UFC 303 in June but withdrew after sustaining a broken toe.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The "Notorious" previously fought Floyd Mayweather in his professional boxing debut in 2017, suffering a 10th-round TKO loss.Paul will enter the ring after being involved in several high-profile boxing exhibitions. The YouTube star previously fought Mayweather and holds a draw and a loss to KSI. Paul also defeated former MMA fighter Dillon Danis. The 29-year-old has recently been a fixture in the WWE, capturing the U.S. title in late 2023.McGregor and Paul have traded barbs in the past. In 2023, the Irish MMA star threatened to "slap the nose" off Paul as the latter prepared for a boxing match against Danis, McGregor's friend and training partner.Rumors that McGregor could fight Topuria grew after the Spaniard captured the UFC featherweight championship with a second-round knockout of Alexander Volkanovski in February. "El Matador" successfully defended his title against Max Halloway at UFC 308 in October, finishing the BMF champ in the third round by KO.Topuria has shared exchanges with McGregor on social media this year. The current UFC champ mocked McGregor for pulling out of his bout against Chandler after the Irishman said he'd "slap him around.""Come to Madrid, and we will see who slaps who. Topuria Knuckles for dinner," Topuria said in a July <a href="https://x.com/Topuriailia/status/1813967464931430478">post</a> on X.

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 14: Conor McGregor attends the London photo call for Prime Video's "Road House" at The Corinthia Hotel on March 14, 2024 in London, England.

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McGregor delays UFC return, agrees to box Logan Paul in exhibition 

Wake Forest head coach Dave Clawson announced Monday that he's stepping down after 11 seasons.   ...

Wake Forest head coach Dave Clawson announced Monday that he's stepping down after 11 seasons. "After completing my 25th season as a head coach and 36th straight in college football, the timing is right for me and my family to step away into this new role within Wake Forest University," Clawson said in a <a href="https://godeacs.com/news/2024/12/16/dave-clawson-announces-resignation-as-wake-forest-football-head-coach">statement</a>."Coaching at Wake Forest has been the honor of my career. This is a special place with extraordinary people, and I am deeply grateful for the relationships I've built over the last 11 years," he continued.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Youngstown, New York native took over the football program in December 2013 after leading Bowling Green to a 32-32 record in the five years prior. After back-to-back 3-9 campaigns in 2014 and 2015, Wake Forest made seven consecutive bowl appearances between 2016-22 and participated in an ACC title game in 2021.Clawson is the only head coach in NCAA Division I history to lead four different programs (Fordham, Richmond, Bowling Green, and Wake Forest) to double-digit wins in a season.Wake Forest's outgoing head coach has voiced his frustration with the new landscape of college football. Clawson's program has posted a 4-8 mark over the past two seasons as NIL and the transfer portal play a larger role in roster building.Clawson will exit coaching after posting a 67-69 record during his tenure on Wake Forest's sideline. He'll remain with the school in an advisory role, serving as a special advisor to vice president and director of athletics John Currie.

STANFORD, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 26: Head coach Dave Clawson of the Wake Forest Demon Deacons stands on the field during a time out against the Stanford Cardinal in the second quarter at Stanford Stadium on October 26, 2024 in Stanford, California.

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Wake Forest's Clawson steps down after 11 seasons

The Baltimore Ravens announced Monday that they excused wide receiver Diontae Johnson from team a...

The Baltimore Ravens announced Monday that they excused wide receiver Diontae Johnson from team activities ahead of Saturday's game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Statement from the Baltimore Ravens. <a href="https://t.co/sg9seXfJMc">pic.twitter.com/sg9seXfJMc</a>— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ravens/status/1868740407422808522?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Johnson missed Sunday's win against the New York Giants while serving a one-game suspension for conduct detrimental to the team after he refused to enter a matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles.The 2021 Pro Bowl wideout hasn't made much of an impact since the Ravens acquired him from the Carolina Panthers on Oct. 29. Johnson recorded 30 receptions for 357 yards and three touchdowns in seven games with the Panthers before posting one catch on five targets in five contests with Baltimore.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Johnson's production is far from what he put up with the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Toledo product racked up 391 catches, 4,363 yards, and 25 touchdowns from 2019-23.Despite losing Johnson, quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97162" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97162">Lamar Jackson</a> has plenty of options to throw to. Nelson Agholor, Devontez Walker, and Isaiah Likely have received targets this season behind stalwarts like <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188142" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188142">Zay Flowers</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/82707" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/82707">Mark Andrews</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161658" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161658">Rashod Bateman</a>.

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - NOVEMBER 7: Diontae Johnson #18 of the Baltimore Ravens warms up prior to an NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals at M&T Bank Stadium on November 7, 2024 in Baltimore, Maryland.

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Ravens excuse Diontae Johnson from team activities

Quarterback Drew Allar announced Monday that he'll return to Penn State in 2025 for his senior ye...

Quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/171465" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/171465">Drew Allar</a> announced Monday that he'll return to Penn State in 2025 for his senior year."This season has been the most fun I've ever had in my entire life playing football, and I'm so proud of what we've accomplished as a team," Allar posted on X. "I know there's still more work to do, which is why I look forward to making more memories with my teammates this year and beyond."<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://t.co/RvIXIErnqu">pic.twitter.com/RvIXIErnqu</a>— Drew Allar (@AllarDrew) <a href="https://twitter.com/AllarDrew/status/1868693161121628303?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Allar threw for 2,894 yards, 21 touchdowns, and seven interceptions while completing 69% of his passes in 2024 to lead Penn State to an 11-2 record and a College Football Playoff berth. Ranked No. 6 in the postseason, the Nittany Lions host SMU in the first round of the CFP next Saturday.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The junior signal-caller has passed for 5,869 yards, 50 touchdowns, and nine INTs in three seasons at Penn State.Allar will put his pro ambitions on hold despite the 6-foot-5, 235-pound quarterback drawing interest from NFL evaluators ahead of the 2025 draft.While Penn State received good news about Allar returning, the program lost a key depth piece behind him. Backup passer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/171472" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/171472">Beau Pribula</a> announced Monday that he'll enter the transfer portal ahead of the Nittany Lions' next matchup. Freshmen <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/193126" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/193126">Jack Lambert</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/196335" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/196335">Ethan Grunkemeyer</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/184282" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/184282">Jaxon Smolik</a> are other options behind Allar this season.

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - DECEMBER 07: Drew Allar #15 of the Penn State Nittany Lions warms up during the first half against the Oregon Ducks in the 2024 Big Ten Football Championship at Lucas Oil Stadium on December 07, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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Penn State's Allar returning for senior year

Florida State announced Monday that head coach Mike Norvell is handing $4.5 million of his salary...

Florida State announced Monday that head coach Mike Norvell is handing $4.5 million of his salary back to the school in a restructured agreement."I presented this to our administration in an effort to boost the support of our student-athletes while recognizing that the results and expectations need to be upheld to the highest level," Norvell said in a <a href="https://seminoles.com/news/2024/12/16/football-norvell-contributes-to-launch-vision-of-excellence">statement</a>. "I wanted to be proactive in my financial assistance through this time of transition as we all push forward to get back to the standard of Florida State football."Norvell's contribution is part of the Seminoles' Vision of Excellence campaign, in which the school is raising money to share revenue with its student-athletes. The new initiative was created in anticipation of the new House settlement, which will permit schools to share up to $20.5 million with their athletes beginning July 1.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"We are grateful for Coach Norvell's commitment to our student-athletes," FSU athletic director Michael Alford said. "He is a high-character person who took an honest assessment of what the program needed from its leader to move forward. I'm excited about the future of Florida State football."Norvell, who agreed to an extension this past spring, will earn $9.9 million and see his earnings increase to $11 million toward the end of his contract, according to <a href="https://sports.yahoo.com/sign-of-the-times-fsus-mike-norvell-giving-back-45-million-in-salary-ahead-of-athlete-revenue-share-era-141320243.html">Yahoo Sports' Ross Dellenger</a>.The decision to contribute to the Seminoles' campaign comes after Norvell led FSU to a 2-10 record. The season marked an abrupt downturn for a program that finished with a 13-1 record and narrowly missed the College Football Playoff in controversial fashion in 2023. Norvell has posted a 33-27 record over five seasons as Florida State's coach.Novell is the latest head coach to use his own salary to help spark donations to his own school. LSU's Brian Kelly and his wife <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3158753" href="https://thescore.com/news/3158753">announced</a> they would match up to $1 million in donations to a Tigers NIL fund.

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 02: Head coach Mike Norvell of the Florida State Seminoles looks on before the start of a game against the Boston College Eagles at Doak Campbell Stadium on September 02, 2024 in Tallahassee, Florida.

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Norvell gives back $4.5M to Florida State in restructured deal

New York Jets running back Breece Hall is active Sunday against the Jacksonville Jaguars after mi...

New York Jets running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174033" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174033">Breece Hall</a> is active Sunday against the Jacksonville Jaguars after missing last week's game with a knee injury.Hall was listed as questionable on the Jets' final injury report Friday. New York's starting halfback returned to practice Friday after not participating in the team's Wednesday and Thursday sessions.Hall hurt his left knee against the Indianapolis Colts last month. He then re-aggravated it Dec. 1 against the Seattle Seahawks in what interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich described as an MCL issue.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Iowa State product leads the team with 692 yards rushing and has four touchdowns while averaging 4.2 yards per carry. He also has 46 catches for 406 yards and two scores.The Jets could opt to ease Hall back into action after missing last week's loss to the Miami Dolphins. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199907" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199907">Isaiah Davis</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199909" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199909">Braelon Allen</a> worked in tandem to spur New York's ground attack to 148 yards combined versus Miami.

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - NOVEMBER 17: Breece Hall #20 of the New York Jets in action against the Indianapolis Colts at MetLife Stadium on November 17, 2024 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

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Jets' Hall to play vs. Jaguars

Deion Sanders took to social media Saturday to deny rumors that his son Shedeur Sanders would ref...

Deion Sanders took to social media Saturday to deny rumors that his son <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/160938" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/160938">Shedeur Sanders</a> would refuse to play for the Cleveland Browns or New York Giants if either team drafted him.Colorado's head coach has previously said he would intervene if the "wrong team" selected Shedeur in the 2025 NFL Draft. The Pro Football Hall of Famer did not provide any specific teams he would label as undesirable for the Buffaloes quarterback.Deion appeared to take umbrage with a report from "NFL Rookie Watch" that implied a "high likelihood" the Colorado QB would refuse to play for either the Giants or Browns.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
A Lie don’t care who tells it. Please stop trying to become relevant by misrepresenting my son. God bless you. 🙏🏾 <a href="https://t.co/lvLpYD4HTh">https://t.co/lvLpYD4HTh</a>— COACH PRIME (@DeionSanders) <a href="https://twitter.com/DeionSanders/status/1868011482752942177?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Coach Prime said this past spring that draft-related decisions for his son and Heisman Trophy winner <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/179519" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/179519">Travis Hunter</a> will be in their own hands.Deion referenced two-time Super Bowl winner <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/1546" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/1546">Eli Manning</a>, who asked the San Diego Chargers not to draft him in 2004. San Diego went ahead and selected him with the top pick, and Manning was ultimately dealt to the Giants before the conclusion of the first round."I know where I want them to go," Colorado's coach told the "Million Dollaz Worth of Game" podcast in March, per <a href="https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/39806331/deion-shedeur-sanders-travis-hunter-control-25-nfl-draft-fate">ESPN</a>. "So, it's certain cities that ain't going to happen. It's going to be an Eli."Both franchises are projected to have a top-10 selection next spring with New York slotted to have the second overall pick while Cleveland would select eighth, per <a href="https://www.tankathon.com/nfl">Tankathon</a>.Shedeur is considered a top-five prospect in next year's draft. The Buffaloes quarterback was projected to be the No. 1 overall pick in <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3154250" href="https://thescore.com/news/3154250">theScore’s NFL mock draft</a>.Colorado's star passer finished the college football regular season leading the country with a 74.2% completion rate while also passing for 3,926 yards, 35 touchdowns, and eight interceptions.

ORLANDO, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 28: Head coach Deion Sanders of the Colorado Buffaloes talks with Shedeur Sanders #2 during the second half of a game against the UCF Knights at FBC Mortgage Stadium on September 28, 2024 in Orlando, Florida.

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Deion: 'A lie' that Shedeur Sanders won't play for Giants, Browns

Las Vegas Raiders star defensive end Maxx Crosby will miss the rest of the season due to an ankle...

Las Vegas Raiders star defensive end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/100596" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/100596">Maxx Crosby</a> will miss the rest of the season due to an ankle injury that requires surgery, he confirmed Saturday."As much as it pains me to write, I will not be playing the rest of the season," Crosby said in an Instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DDk_gkTyn3H/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&amp;igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==">post</a>. "Second time this year getting rolled up on the same ankle and now it will require surgery."He'll meet with Dr. Rob Anderson and undergo arthroscopic surgery Monday, and that will determine the extent of the damage to Crosby's ankle and whether he needs additional medical procedures, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/42971713/sources-raiders-crosby-likely-season-ending-surgery">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Crosby wrote that he initially suffered a high ankle sprain Sept. 15 in a game against the Baltimore Ravens and then aggravated the injury in last Sunday's game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Doctors think Crosby's injury could be worse than initial evaluations suggested, Schefter reports.The Raiders ruled Crosby out for Monday's game against the Atlanta Falcons because of his ankle issue. Las Vegas has already been eliminated from postseason contention.Crosby didn't participate in practice this week, according to <a href="https://x.com/PGutierrezESPN/status/1868044287109402948">ESPN's Paul Gutierrez</a>.The three-time Pro Bowler has been one of the bright spots for Las Vegas this season. He leads the team with 17 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks in 12 games.The 27-year-old also missed a game against the Cleveland Browns in September due to an ankle issue.While Crosby will definitely be sidelined Monday, it remains unclear who will start at quarterback for the Raiders. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188217" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188217">Aidan O'Connell</a> is listed as questionable after not practicing all week while battling a knee injury.O'Connell was carted off the field with an air cast over his left leg in last week's game against the Buccaneers. The second-year passer reportedly sustained a bone bruise, which led to optimism that he could be available for Monday Night Football.If O'Connell is unable to play, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174062" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174062">Desmond Ridder</a> is expected to get the start.

MIAMI GARDENS, FL - NOVEMBER 19: Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby (98) leaves the field following the game between the Las Vegas Raiders and the Miami Dolphins on Sunday, November 19, 2023 at Hard Rock Stadium, Miami, Fla.

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Raiders' Crosby to have season-ending ankle surgery

Former USC quarterback Miller Moss is committing to Louisville, sources told ESPN's Pete Thamel o...

Former USC quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/162553" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/162553">Miller Moss</a> is committing to Louisville, sources told <a href="https://x.com/PeteThamel/status/1868065670879227935">ESPN's Pete Thamel</a> on Saturday.Moss entered the transfer portal after four seasons with the Trojans. He will have one year of eligibility remaining. After playing sparingly during his first two seasons with USC, Moss made more appearances during the 2023 campaign. He completed 23 of 33 passes for 372 yards and a Holiday Bowl-record six touchdowns against his new team last year. Moss entered the 2024 season as the Trojans' starting quarterback and led the team to a win over LSU in its season opener. However, the redshirt junior was benched after nine games for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/172024" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/172024">Jayden Maiava</a> due to his uneven play.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Los Angeles native threw for 2,555 yards, 18 touchdowns, and nine interceptions in his final season at USC.Missouri was among the other schools interested in acquiring Moss after he entered the transfer portal, according to <a href="https://x.com/mzenitz/status/1868068539208503306">CBS Sports' Matt Zenitz</a>.Moss will likely compete for the Cardinals' starting job after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/126158" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/126158">Tyler Shough</a> led the team to an 8-4 record this year. Louisville faces Washington in the Sun Bowl on Dec. 31.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 7: Miller Moss #7 of the USC Trojans walks off the field during a game against Utah State Aggies at United Airlines Field at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on September 7, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.

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Report: Miller Moss transferring from USC to Louisville 

The Seattle Seahawks listed running back Kenneth Walker as doubtful for their Sunday Night Footba...

The Seattle Seahawks listed running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174074" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174074">Kenneth Walker</a> as doubtful for their Sunday Night Football matchup against the Green Bay Packers on the team's final injury report Friday.Walker continues to work through a calf injury that caused him to miss last week's 30-18 win over the Arizona Cardinals.Head coach Mike Macdonald said Walker made progress this week, but "he hasn't practiced yet, so we listed him as doubtful," according to <a href="https://x.com/johnpboyle/status/1867681693819449644">team reporter John Boyle</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Michigan State product leads Seattle with 542 rushing yards and seven touchdowns. Walker has also tallied 38 catches for 271 yards and one score. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188172" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188172">Zach Charbonnet</a> has taken the lead in the Seahawks' rushing attack in Walker's absence. The second-year halfback ran for a season-high 134 yards and two scores, adding seven receptions for 59 yards in the victory over the Cardinals.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188329" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188329">Kenny McIntosh</a> will also see some snaps as Charbonnet's backup Sunday.The Seahawks (8-5) will attempt to extend their current four-game win streak against the Packers in prime time.

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - SEPTEMBER 10: Kenneth Walker III #9 of the Seattle Seahawks looks on during warmups prior to the game against the Los Angeles Rams at Lumen Field on September 10, 2023 in Seattle, Washington.

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Seahawks' Walker doubtful for SNF vs. Packers 

LSU head coach Brian Kelly and his wife, Paqui, announced they're matching up to $1 million as pa...

LSU head coach Brian Kelly and his wife, Paqui, announced they're matching up to $1 million as part of an ongoing initiative to raise money for the school's NIL fund."LSU has a long and proud tradition of being one of the elite programs in college football," Brian Kelly said in a <a href="https://lsusports.net/news/2024/12/13/brian-and-paqui-kelly-create-million-dollar-match-challenge/">statement</a>. "In order to remain among the nation's elite in this new world of college athletics, we have to be competitive in all areas of our program. I am committed to doing all that we can to win championships at LSU."NCAA rules prevent coaches from paying players, so the Kellys' donation will go toward the Tiger Athletic Foundation. The school didn't specify how the donation from the coach would be dispersed.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Brian Kelly and his wife, Paqui, are kicking off the Kelly Family Million Dollar Match Challenge! They will match donations to LSU's Football NIL efforts - up to $1 million - with a gift to the Tiger Athletic Foundation’s AD’s Excellence Fund. <a href="https://t.co/eqTGi6MBTO">pic.twitter.com/eqTGi6MBTO</a>— LSU Football (@LSUfootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/LSUfootball/status/1867627194945876046?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>LSU's head coach has been outspoken about the role of NIL and its impact on roster building in college football. Kelly previously lamented the idea of buying players."We're not in the market of buying players. And unfortunately, right now, that's what some guys are looking for," Kelly said in May.The Tigers recently lost a commitment from five-star quarterback Bryce Underwood, who signed with Michigan during the early signing period. However, LSU received positive news this week that <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/162949" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/162949">Garrett Nussmeier</a> will return next season instead of declaring for the 2025 NFL Draft.Kelly has led the program to a 28-11 record through 39 games. The Tigers concluded the 2024 regular season with an 8-4 mark. LSU will close out the season in a matchup against Baylor in the Texas Bowl.

BATON ROUGE, LA - NOVEMBER 30: Head coach Brian Kelly of the LSU Tigers during halftime against the Oklahoma Sooners at Tiger Stadium on November 30, 2024 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

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Brian Kelly to match up to $1M in NIL donations to LSU 

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