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Tag: NFL

  • NFL 2025-26 Midseason Awards.

    A collage of NFL team helmets arranged around a central NFL logo with a colorful background.

    We are just over halfway done with the 2025-26 NFL Season.

    Anybody saying they knew that the New England Patriots and Indianapolis Colts would be 8-2 is a liar.

    Nobody thought the Carolina Panthers would be 2nd in the NFC South (5-5).

    Who really thought that the Denver Broncos (8-2) AND Los Angelos Chargers (7-3), would be ahead of the 3rd place Kansas City Chiefs 5-4) in the AFC West?

    Of course, we all knew that my Cleveland Browns were going to just stiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiink, but even I didn’t think we’d be this terrible on offense.

    Two coffee cups from The Rebel Bean, one hot and one iced, placed on a wooden table alongside small pumpkins and gourds, with a festive autumn-themed backdrop.

    For the best coffee and lattes in all of Van Wert County, Ohio; stop into The Rebel Bean today. Check out their Facebook page for hours and drink menu. You can also find them on the Joe.coffee app as well.

    All of this just adds more questions than answers.

    Is Colts QB Daniel Jones’ starting to look like he was in New York?

    Can Colts running back Jonathan Taylor win the NFL MVP Award (almost always a QB Award anymore)?

    How many more head coaches will be fired during the season (New York Giants fired Brain Daboll on Monday)? I predicted this would happen in my NFL Season Preview Article.

    It has been an absolutely topsy-turvy, crazy season so far, and I am 100% for all of it.

    So, without further ado, I give you the REAL NFL 25-26 mid-season awards.

    Most Valuable Player – Drake Maye, QB, New England Patriots.

    New England Patriots quarterback in action, looking for an open receiver while holding the football.

    The 2nd year quarterback has thrown for 2,555 yards, with 19 TDs to 5 INTs. He has a QBR of 72.9 and is completing 71.7% of his throws.

    He’s led the Patriots to 1st place in the AFC East, over the much favored and talked about Buffalo Bills.

    He’s even added 283 yards on the ground with 2 TDs.

    He’s not making the mistakes he did as a rookie, and he’s been dominating so far this season.

    Runner up – Jonathan Taylor, HB, Indianapolis Colts.

    Offensive Player of the Year – Jonathan Taylor, HB, Indianapolis Colts.

    Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor running with the football during a game.

    No running back has had a start to the season like this, since Adrian Peterson did in 2012.

    Jonathan Taylor has been an absolute animal this season.

    Unstoppable, even with 9 guys in the box.

    He has 189 carries, for 1,139 yards, with 15 TDs, and most importantly, 0 fumbles.

    He’s averaging 113.9 yards per game and 6 yards per carry.

    He is the engine that is carrying this surprising Colts team.

    Runner up – Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Seattle Seahawks.

    Defensive Player of the Year – Myles Garrett, DE, Cleveland Browns.

    Cleveland Browns player Myles Garrett holding his helmet while looking serious on the sideline during a game.

    NFL head coaches openly admit that they have an entire play sheet for when Myles Garrett is either on or off the field.

    He completely changes the way a head coach coaches the game.

    Garrett is tied for the league lead in sacks with 11.

    He also leads the NFL in TFLs (tackles for loss) with 15.

    This is his 8th consecutive season with double-digit sacks.

    He has 34 total tackles, and 1 forced fumble.

    Runner up – Brian Burns, LB, New York Giants.

    Offensive Rookie of the Year – Emeka Egbuka, WR, Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

    Tampa Bay Buccaneers player wearing a white jersey with the number 2, standing on the field with a serious expression.

    The rookie wide receiver out of Ohio State leads the team in receptions (40), yards (677) and TDs (6).

    He’s had to step into that #1 receiver role with injuries to Mike Evans and Chris Godwin Jr.

    He’s become QB Baker Mayfield’s “go to guy” in the biggest situations.

    Runner up – Tyler Warren, TE, Indianapolis Colts.

    Defensive Rookie of the Year – Carson Schwesinger, LB, Cleveland Browns.

    Cleveland Browns player wearing a white uniform with the number 49, smiling during a game, with teammates in the background.

    The rookie out of UCLA, leads all rookies with 74 tackles.

    He wears the “green dot” for Browns hard-nosed defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz.

    He’s all over the field.

    He can cover TEs and slot WRs, as well as fill the gaps on blitzs.

    He also has 1.5 sacks and 1 INT.

    Runner up – Xavier Watts, S, Atlanta Falcons.

    Head Coach of the Year – Mike Vrabel, New England Patriots.

    A press conference setting featuring a man in a suit and tie, smiling while speaking into a microphone, with a backdrop displaying the New England Patriots logo and branding.

    Vrabel has taken a struggling quarterback, and turned him into an MVP candidate.

    He has this team playing hard, tough, and fundamentally sound on both offense and defense.

    As I said earlier in this article, NOBODY foresaw the Patriots being 8-2, and that all starts with head coach Mike Vrabel.

    Runner up – Shane Steichen, Indianapolis Colts.

    Who are you’re midseason award winners?

    – by Sean McKenzie

    Stats and information courtesy of…..NFL and ESPN.

    Pictures courtesy of…..wallpapercave, SI, clutchpoints, brownsnation, sportingnews, and totalprosports.

  • Top 3 College Football Games to Watch for Week 10.

    A collage of various college sports team logos arranged in a grid format.

    After a solid Week 9 of college football, that had 3 Top 25 upsets, we come to Week 10.

    There is no “marquee game” this week.

    Cry me a river #5 Georgia Bulldogs and Florida Gator fans, your rivalry game is NOT a marquee matchup. It’s not even in the Top 5 rivalries in all of college football. Heck, maybe not even Top 10.

    Overall, it’s a nice B.

    So, without further ado, here are the Top 3 Games to watch and my predictions, on Saturday.

    I went 1-2 last week.

    Making me 13-9 for the season.

    1) #17 Cincinnati Bearcats (7-1) at #24 Utah Utes (6-2).
    Game starts at 10:15 PM (EST) on ESPN.

    Graphic representing a college football matchup between the Cincinnati Bearcats and the Utah Utes, with team logos displayed against a digital background.

    The Big-12 might be my favorite conference to watch, year in and year out.

    Because you have absolutely no clue, who is going to be in this conference title race.

    NOBODY expected the Cincinnati Bearcats to be leading the conference in Week 10, but we all expected Utah to be right up near the top.

    QB Brendan Sorsby is quietly having an All-American type of season. He’s thrown for 1,843 yards, with 20 TDs to only 1 INT. He’s also added 69 carries, for 425 yards, and 7 TDs in the running game. LB Jake Golday leads the team in total tackles (67) and sacks (3.5). There kicker is a perfect 11 of 11 so far, and 4-4 from 40+.

    Utah QB Devon Dampier needs to be smarter with the football. He’s thrown his 4 INTs in the last 4 games that he’s played. He should get the start, after missing last weeks game. I haven’t heard otherwise. He’s thrown for 13 TDs, and has added 442 yards, with 5 TDs on the ground. Utah has one of, if not the best, DE in the country, with John Henry Booty. He has 36 total tackles, and he’s 4th in the country with 9.5 sacks.

    Prediction – This is a must win game for Utah to stay in the Big-12 title picture. Cincinnati is looking to get a statement win, against a perennial power team. My heart wants to go Cincinnati, but my head is saying Utah. I’m going with my head. I’m taking the Utes in a close game at home 35-31.

    2) Navy Midshipmen (7-0) at North Texas Mean Green (7-1).
    Game starts at 12:00 PM (EST) or Noon, on ESPN.

    Split design featuring the Navy Midshipmen logo on a dark blue background with a gold star and the North Texas Mean Green logo on a green background.

    Who would’ve ever thought we’d see this coming. Undefeated Navy and in 1st place, vs a once beaten Mean Green in 3rd place.

    The Midshipmen play an option offense, and it all runs through QB Blake Horvath. He leads the team with 1,063 yards passing, 7 TDs and 3 INTs. He leads the team in rushing with 814 yards, and 12 TDs. Senior DT Landon Robinson has 5.5 sacks and gets pressure up the middle right into the face of opposing quarterbacks.

    The Mean Green are led by freshman QB Drew Mestemaker, who’s coming off a 608-yard performance. He’s thrown for 2,468 yards, with 21 TDs to only 4 INTs. I’ve watched him 3 times this season, he’s a gunslinger. He’s going to be HIGHLY sought after by P4 schools. They have fast linebackers that force mistakes. 7 INTs, 9 forced fumbles, and 10 fumble recoveries.

    Prediction – I love my Middies. Makes me so happy to see them doing good. Unfortunately, I don’t think this game goes well for Navy. I’m taking the Mean Green to win big 42-28.

    3) #9 Vanderbilt Commodores (7-1) at #20 Texas Longhorns (6-2).
    Game starts at 12:00 PM (EST) or Noon on ABC.

    Graphic showing matchup between Texas Longhorns and Vanderbilt Commodores, featuring team logos and NCAA branding, set against a football stadium background.

    The big news here is that we don’t know yet, if Longhorns starting QB Arch Manning is going to play or not.

    We all know that the Commodores want to control the clock on offense. That starts with MY Heisman frontrunner, QB Diego Pavia. He’s thrown for 1,698 yards, with 15 TDs and 5 INTs. He also has 458 yards rushing with TDs. On defense, they’re gap sound and run to the ball. The DL has 17 of the teams 21 sacks. They make plays when they need them.

    The Longhorns offense, for good or for ill, revolves around QB Arch Manning. If he can’t play, then senior QB Matthew Caldwell will step in. No matter who’s at QB, they have to get WR Ryan Wingo involved. The defense is led by LB Anthony Hill Jr. He leads the team in total tackles (60) and forced fumbles (3). LB Colin Simmons leads the team in sacks (7).

    Prediction – I have thought about this all week long. I just have this gut feeling that Texas is going to get a favorable call late, and pull this one out at home. I’m going Longhorns to win a very close 28-27 game.

    For the best coffee and lattes in Van Wert County, stop into The Rebel Bean. Check out their Facebook (Meta) page for hours and drinks menu.

    I’m a simple black coffee man myself, but their Sugar Shake latte is excellent.

    – by Sean McKenzie

    Subscribe and follow allsportsfan.com.

    Like my articles and drop a comment, in the comment section.

    Stats courtesy of…..NCAA.

    Pictures courtesy of……wallpapercave, capperspicks, espn, and clutchpoints.

  • Top 3 College Football Games to Watch for Week 9.

    A collage of various college sports team logos displayed on a black background.

    It’s been an exciting start to Week 9 already, as 2 games have gone into overtime and exciting finishes.

    Western Kentucky beat Louisiana Tech 28-27, and Missouri State beat New Mexico State 24-17.

    Some sad news, as the Auburn Tigers have lost starting center Conner Lew for the season with a torn ACL. Lew is going to be a Day 1 starting center in the NFL next season. Good luck to him, as we all wish him a speedy and full recovery.

    That news actually bumped their game with Arkansas off my list. It’s still one of the more under-rated game and isn’t being talked about enough, IMO.

    I went 2-2 in my picks last week.

    I am 12-7 for the season.

    So, without further ado, HERE are the Top 3 games you should watch (in no particular order).

    1) #18 South Florida Bulls (6-1) at Memphis Tigers (6-1).
    Game starts at 12:00 PM (Noon) (EST) on ESPN2.

    Logo of South Florida Bulls and Memphis Tigers with a football field background.

    That’s right. One of the best games this week, is from the AAC (American Athletic Conference). The Bulls are ranked and in the driver’s seat for the G5 spot in the college football playoffs. Memphis is coming off an absolutely embarrassing loss to UAB last week. Both teams are highly motivated.

    The USF Bulls are simply put, “The Byrum Brown Show”. They go as he goes. He’s thrown for 1,695 yards, with 16 TDs and 5 INTs. He’s added 99 carries, for 475 yards, with 6 TDs. He leads the team in passing and rushing. On defense, they’re led by LB Mac Harris. He’s 2nd on the team in tackles (56) and 1st in sacks (5.5). He’s also has 3 forced fumbles and an INT.

    Memphis has a dual-threat QB of their own. Brendon Lewis has thrown for 1,337 yards, with 8 TDs and 4 INTs. He’s added 86 carries, for 440 yards, with 7 TDs. I know, it’s weird seeing Memphis not have gaudy passing yards, but this is a running team. HBs Sutton Smith and Greg Desrosiers Jr have a combined 869 yards rushing, and 11 TDs between them. The defense forces mistakes and turnovers, as they have 10 INTs, 7 forced fumbles, and 4 fumble recoveries.

    Prediction – The loss to UAB will have the Tigers playing of their toes. USF is battle tested. I’m going to go with the better quarterback. Give me the USF Bulls to win 35-31.

    2) Houston Cougars (6-1) at #24 Arizona State Sun Devils (5-2).
    Game starts at 8:00 PM (EST) on ESPN2.

    Logo of the Houston Cougars on the left and the Arizona State Sun Devils on the right, with a split background.

    The winner of this game could end up tied for 2nd place in the Big-12 or in 2nd all alone. While it was expected that ASU would be competing for the conference title again, nobody saw the Cougars being here, at this point in the season.

    Cougars transfer QB Conner Weigman has managed to stay healthy this season. He’s thrown for 1,380 yards, with 11 TDs to only 2 INTs. They balance it out with HB Dean Connors. He has 115 carries, for 538 yards, and 4 TDs. It’s a feisty defense that has 17 team sacks, 6 INTs, and 11 forced fumbles.

    The talk of the Sun Devils offense is about the Leavitt-Tyson connection. QB Sam Leavitt has thrown for 1,358 yards, with 9 TDs and 3 INTs. WR Jordyn Tyson has 57 catches, for 628 yards, and 8 TDs. What’s not talked about is HB Raleek Brown, and the balance he brings. 110 carries, for 642 yards, with 3 TDs. The defense has 21 team sacks, with 14 coming from the defensive line. They get to the QB quick and often.

    Prediction – It’s been fun watching the Cougars go on this run. I think they simply run into a better team on Saturday. Give me the Sun Devils to win 27-21.

    3) #15 Missouri Tigers (6-1) at #10 Vanderbilt Commodores (6-1).
    Game starts at 3:30 PM (EST) on ESPN.

    Graphic featuring the logos of the Missouri Tigers and Vanderbilt Commodores, set against a background of football imagery.

    It’s been a wonderful season for both teams so far, but somebody’s run is about to end here. The loser of this game is officially out of the SEC conference title picture.

    Yes, QB Beau Pribula has thrown for 1,617 yards, however, he has 7 INTs to his 11 TDs. This is a running, ball control offense. HB Ahmad Hardy has 139 carries, for 840 yards (3rd in the nation), with 11 TDs (2nd in the nation). DE’s Damon Wilson and Zion Young, have a combined 10.5 sacks, and get pressure off the edges.

    Vanderbilt is led by QB Diego Pavia (my Heisman Trophy frontrunner). He’s thrown for 1,569 yards, with 15 TDs to 4 INTs. He also has 77 carries, for 438 yards, with 4 TDs. He’s the heart and soul of this team. This is a gap sound defense, that gets pressure from multiple positions, as they have 20 teams sacks.

    Prediction – I think this is going to be a close football game. Somehow, someway, I believe Pavia will make just enough plays to give the Commodores the win. I’m taking Vandy 24-21.

    – by Sean McKenzie.

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    Stats and information courtesy of…..NCAA and ESPN.

    Pictures courtesy of…..wallpapercave, nytimes, and ESPN.

  • Week 3 College Football Recap and Helmet Stickers.

    Collage of college football team logos including Georgia, Michigan, Texas A&M, and more on a dark background.

    What a Week 3 of college football!!!

    We had some incredible games, that came down to the wire and overtime.

    Georgia needed OT to beat Tennessee in Knoxville 44-41.

    Texas A&M scored a TD with only 13 seconds left, to beat Notre Dame 41-40 in South Bend.

    Vanderbilt upset (then ranked #11) South Carolina 31-7.

    The USF Bulls train finally ran off the tracks, getting beatdown by the Miami Hurricanes 49-12.

    Unranked (at the time) Georgia Tech upset (then ranked #12) Clemson, 24-21 on a field goal with no time left.

    There was a lot to choose from, so here are the Week 3 college football helmet stickers.

    1) Vanderbilt University Commodores

    Vanderbilt University Commodores logo featuring a black star with a white 'V' at the center.

    The Commodores are picking up right where they left off, from their magical run last season.

    Super senior QB Diego Pavia made plays when they mattered most. Throwing for 177 yards with 2 TDs and sophomore S CJ Heard was flying all over the field making plays and was a tackling machine on defense.

    This is a massive win for the program and head coach Clark Lea, as the Commodores continue to show the world, that they aren’t the loveable losers of college football anymore.

    2) Ahmad Hardy, Running Back, Missouri.

    A Missouri football player wearing a black jersey with yellow and white accents runs with the ball on the field during a game.

    The sophomore running back had 22 carries, for 250 yards, and 3 TDs, in the Tigers 52-10 win over UL Ragin Cajuns.

    He’s now 2nd in country in rushing yards with 462 yards, as he’s a key component in the Tigers (3-0) high powered offense, after the loss of WR Burden and QB Cook to the NFL.

    3) Bryun Parham, Linebacker, University of Connecticut.

    Two University of Connecticut football players celebrating on the field, wearing white uniforms with blue accents, amidst an excited crowd in the background.

    The Huskies 5th year senior had 10 total tackles and 3 sacks in a 44-41 loss to Delaware.

    The linebacker has had a long cross-country journey in his college football career. Starting at San Jose State, then a one year stop in Washington, before landing at UConn this season. He’s already doubled his season totals in tackles from last season and is currently tied for 1st in the nation in sacks.

    Who would you give a helmet sticker to?

    – by Sean McKenzie

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    Stats courtesy of…..NCAA.

    Pictures courtesy of…..wallpapercave, thehour, and si.

  • 3 Bold Predictions for the 2025-26 NFL Season.

    Graphic featuring the text 'NFL BOLD PREDICTIONS' with a football motif and a logo in the corner.

    The 2025-26 NFL season is finally upon us. It was an off-season of holdouts, especially at the wide receiver position. Khalil Shakir (BUF), Rashod Bateman (BAL), Courtland Sutton (DEN), Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins (CIN), and Terry McLaurin (WASH), all got contract extensions.

    Most recently, the biggest off-season move was made when the Dallas Cowboys traded star DE/OLB Micah Parson to the Green Bay Packers for two 1st round picks and DT Kenny Clark.

    It was a top heavy draft, with the Cleveland Browns making a surprise move. Trading the #2 pick to the Jacksonville Jaguars for the #5 pick and their 1st round pick next season.

    The Jaguars took CB/WR Travis Hunter from Colorado, and the Browns ended up taking DT Mason Graham from Michigan (see previous article on my thoughts on this trade and pick).

    With so much movement in the offseason, here are my 3 bold predictions for the season.

    1) New York Giants head coach Brian Daboll will be fired during the season.

    New York Giants logo with a distressed blue and gray background.

    Daboll has a 19-33-1 career record through his first three seasons as a head coach. He does have a veteran quarterback in Russell Wilson, and rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart has looked good through camp and preseason.

    The early season schedule is tough. Opening with games at Washington, at Dallas, home against Kansas City, and home against Los Angelos Chargers, all in the first four games of the season. He cannot afford to start 0-4, or even 1-3.

    They get the defending Super Bowl Champion Philadelphia Eagles on Weeks 8 and 10. I can easily see them being 0-8, and he gets the boot midseason.

    2) Trevor Lawrence will throw for over 4,000 yards this season.

    A football player in a blue jersey with the number 16, wearing a black helmet and celebrating passionately on the field.

    Lawrence only played in 10 games last season. With two 1st round draft picks at the wide receiver position in second year wideout Brian Thomas Jr (87 catches, 1,282 yards, and 10 TDs), and Heisman Trophy winner, rookie Travis Hunter (171 catches, 2,167 yards, and 24 TDs, in 2 seasons at Colorado).

    New offensive coordinator Liam Coen had Bucs quarterback Baker Mayfield in the Top 3 last season. I fully expect him to scheme up ways to make Trevor successful this season.

    3) Both Browns rookie players DT Mason Graham and LB Carson Schwesinger will finish in the Top 5 for Defensive Rookie of the Year.

    Two Cleveland Browns players practicing on a football field during training camp. One player, wearing jersey number 94, is sprinting while the other, in jersey number 49, is holding a football and running drills.

    The Browns defense under defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz is stout. Of course, with former DPOTY Myles Garrett commanding double and triple teams, this will leave Mason Graham with 1 on 1 matchups against interior lineman. With his aggression, strong hands, and agility, he’ll win those matchups consistently.

    With Browns linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah out this season with a possible career ending neck injury (news I broke first before Mary Kay or ESPN), Carson Schwesinger has the speed to run sideline to sideline, and has incredible instincts to sniff out the football.

    With Garrett and Graham rushing the passer, and CB Denzel Ward locking down one half of the field, Carson will make double digit tackles every single game.

    Write it down. Bookmark it. My 3 bold predictions.

    An array of NFL team logos displayed in circular designs, featuring teams like the Arizona Cardinals, New England Patriots, Dallas Cowboys, and others against a light background.

    – by Sean McKenzie.

    Stats courtesy of…..NFL.

    Pictures courtesy of…..wallpapercave, wallpapers, WKBN, drroto.

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  • Cleveland Browns Training Camp.

    Cleveland Browns logo featuring an orange helmet on a brown and orange background.

    Training Camp has concluded for the 2025-26 Cleveland Browns team.

    Like many before, it leaves us with more questions than answers.

    Injuries have limited the reps for former first round pick quarterback Kenny Pickett and rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel. They are battling for the starting quarterback position with long time veteran and former Super Bowl MVP Joe Flacco and fellow rookie Sheduer Sanders.

    Cleveland Browns players gather during training camp, discussing positions and strategies on the field.

    Who is going to start at the most important position in the sport? Your guess is as good as mine.

    The arrest of rookie running back Quinshon Judkins on July 12th for battery, leaves him open to not even making the team. It also gave four-year veteran Jerome Ford more snaps with the first team. Rookie Dylan Sampson had some nice moments in camp, and is (at this point) the backup, with Pierre Strong Jr third string. If Judkins is signed and makes the team, Strong will either be put on the practice squad or outright cut.

    Cleveland Browns player Jerome Ford running with a football during a game.

    Outside of Jerry Jeudy, the battle for the #2 WR position is wide open. The staff had hopes that Cedric Tillman would make some noise, but he hasn’t. It’s been reclamation project Diontae Johnson and Jamari Thrash making the plays.

    Cleveland Browns player running with the football during a game.

    We know that Pro Bowl tight end David Njoku is going to ball out, but it’s been rookie Harold Fannin Jr, that has been catching everything in his orbit. Multiple sources told me, that he’s been a Top 5 overall performer in camp. He’s going to create mismatches against linebackers and has the speed to play in the slot too.

    A coach gives instructions to a player during a training camp session for the Cleveland Browns.

    The starting offensive line is already set with Jones, Bitonio, Pocic, Teller, and Conklin. Former Ohio State player and backup center Luke Wypler has performed well. Hopefully, he’ll stay healthy. The most intriguing person offensive lineman Tevin Jenkins. The coaching staff has played him all over the line in training camp. With the health issues that plague Jones and Conklin, he’s going to play at tackle this season.

    You can count on the interior of the offensive line with Pro Bowlers Joel Bitonio and Wyatt Teller manning the guard spots. Center Ethan Pocic is underrated and has performed well as the starter. It’s the tackle spot that has the most questions.

    Cleveland Browns player wearing jersey number 75, standing on the practice field with a smile during training camp.

    The defensive line is led, of course, by all-world, all-universe, and former NFL Defensive Player of the Year, Myles Garrett. He didn’t do much at training camp, but let’s but truthful…. we don’t him to. Defense tackle Maliek Collins was getting constant pressure, and Browns first round pick defensive tackle Mason Graham performed well. The spot opposite of Garrett is still wide open. It’s between Isaiah McGuire and Joe Tryon-Shoyinka. The latter of the two, played better two sources at camp told me.

    Cleveland Browns player smiling while sitting during training camp.

    I was the first to report way back in January, that starting linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah’s neck injury was career threating, well before Mary Kay Cabot or anyone else was talking about it. He’s not playing this season. Second round pick Carson Schwesinger has had an absolutely dominate training camp. My sources inside have told me that he IS going to be wearing the “green dot” for the defense.

    Two Cleveland Browns players discussing strategies during training camp, wearing practice jerseys and helmets.

    The secondary took a big blow with the season ending injury to starting corner Martin Emerson Jr. Pro Bowler Denzel Ward as usual made plays all camp long and is a stalwart, but who is going to play opposite of him? Will defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz keep corner Greg Newsome in the slot or move him outside? Do the Browns really want Tony Brown manning the outside? The safety position seems set with Grant Delpit and Ronnie Hickman. The depth behind them is lacking and training camp didn’t show much promise either.

    Cleveland Browns player wearing a brown and orange uniform stands in the snow during a game.

    Dustin Hopkins is going to get one last chance to rebound from a truly terrible season kicking, after signing an extension. Punter Corey Bojorquez continues to do great. It’s looking like wide receiver Deandre Carter is leading on kick and punt return duties, but the Browns have been snake bitten at that position since Josh Cribbs left.

    A Cleveland Browns punter executing a kick during a game, with teammates positioned nearby in a crowded stadium.

    The Browns first preseason game of the year is on Friday, August 8th at 7:00 PM (EST) on NFL Network.

    – by Sean McKenzie

    Follow me on X (Twitter) @JoeAmerican6771 and allsportsfancom.

    Pictures courtesy of…..wallpapercave, thelandondemand, yahoosports, brownsnation, beaconjournal, cleveland.com, athlonsports, usatoday.

  • The Top 5 Running Backs in the NFL.

    A collage of NFL team logos arranged in a grid pattern, featuring teams like the Dallas Cowboys, New England Patriots, San Francisco 49ers, and more.

    After the “devaluation” of the running back position swept the NFL for the better part of the last decade, teams are starting to see why the position is so valuable.

    It’s becoming “trendy” again, to hand the ball off 25 to 30 times a game.

    Us fans have known this all along though.

    A running back affects the game in so many ways. It’s far from simply taking a handoff.

    Running routes out of the backfield, they have to know protection details, when is the right time to leave and go into the flat as a dump off option for the quarterback.

    I could go on and on, because everyone knows that I LOVE the running back position.

    So, without further ado, here are the Top 5 running backs in the NFL today.

    Saquon Barkley – Philadelphia Eagles.

    NFL player celebrating on the field, wearing a Philadelphia Eagles jersey and showing a positive gesture with his finger raised.

    Not only on Barkley lead the entire league in rushing last season (2,005 yards), but he also led the league in carries with 345. That’s a heavy workload, and he played 16 games last season.

    You have to account for him coming out of the backfield as well, with 33 catches. He’s a true three-down back, who does a serviceable job in pass blocking.

    Any time he touches the football, he can take it for a touchdown. He has the speed to break long runs, and the power to bulldoze his way between the tackles.

    No running back had a bigger impact on his team last season than Saquon Barkley did.

    Without Barkley, the Philadelphia Eagles aren’t winning the Super Bowl, they probably don’t even win their division.

    Christian McCaffrey – San Francisco 49ers.

    Christian McCaffrey running with the football during an NFL game, wearing a white uniform with red and gold details, showcasing power and agility.

    Absolutely no fan, coach, GM, player, or anybody, can deny the fact the McCaffrey is arguably the best running back in the league, when he’s healthy.

    That’s always been the problem with him. His durability is an issue not just season to season, but game to game.

    He has sneaky speed. He doesn’t look like he’s running fast, but he’ll take a 3-yard run and turn it into long touchdown before you realize what’s happening.

    He’s a far better receiver out of the backfield than Barkley, and maybe the best in the league.

    You simply cannot move him out of the Top 5 or even 3, no matter what.

    Josh Jacobs – Green Bay Packers.

    A running back wearing a green and gold uniform, holding a football, and looking focused on the field during an NFL game.

    Josh Jacobs was the real engine that pulled the train in Green Bay last season, it wasn’t quarterback Jordan Love.

    His first season as a Packer, erased whatever “stain” people had on him from his final season as a Raider.

    The Packers leaned heavily on Jacobs in all situations, enroute to their Wildcard Playoff berth.

    Running for 1,329 yards (6th) on 301 carries (6th) and 15 TDs (4th), proved that he’s a bellcow back with the speed and power to do it all.

    He had 36 catches out of the backfield and did a great job in pass protection for the Packers.

    Derrick Henry – Baltimore Ravens.

    A player in a purple football uniform with the number 22 is running while holding a football. The background features blurred stadium spectators.

    Derrick Henry is a throwback running back to the good ole days of football.

    Just hand him the football and watch him completely steamroll people.

    He’s proven that he can handle a heavy workload throughout his whole career, and showed it again last season.

    Rushing for 1,921 yards (2nd), on 325 carries (2nd), he tied for first in the league with 16 TDs.

    He’s not going to give you receiving yards out of the backfield or do much of anything in terms of pass protection, but he’s going to break a defense and wear them out throughout the entire game.

    Aaron Jones Sr. – Minnesota Vikings.

    A professional football player in a purple jersey, number 33, stands on the field during practice, showcasing a focused expression and athletic build.

    Jones is your classic slasher type running back. He’s quick with his feet, and once he sees the hole in the line, he’s off and going.

    He’s got the speed to break off long runs, and the power to get into the endzone in goalline situations.

    He does have durability issues and is quite similar to McCaffrey (see above). He did play all 17 games last season though.

    He had 1,138 yards (9th) on 255 carries (9th) to go along with a whooping 51 catches out of the backfield.

    He’ll stick his nose in on pass protection, and does a serviceable job in that regard.

    With JJ McCarthy (basically a rookie, though it’s officially his 2nd year in the league) now starting at QB, they’ll lean on him even more this season, as he gets his feet wet to the NFL game.

    I expect a great start for Jones in 2025.

    – Sean McKenzie

    Follow me on X (Twitter) at JoeAmerican6771 and allsportsfancom.

    Like, follow, comment and subscribe.

    Stats and information courtesy of…..NFL and ESPN.

    Pictures courtesy of…..wallpapercave, clutchpoints, bvmsports, sportskeeda, and cbssports.

  • NFL Will Allow Players to Play in the 2028 Games, Thunder Roll, Panthers Dominate, and more.

    NFL NEWS.

    NFL logo overlaying an American flag, representing the league's association with the United States.

    On Tuesday, NFL owners voted unanimously 32-0, in favor of letting league players “try out” for flag football at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angelos, California.

    What we know so far about flag football at the Olympics,

    • There will be 6 teams (USA included).
    • It will be a 5 on 5 format. (5 on offense and 5 on defense).
    • Each team will have a roster of 10 players. (That means it will be a 2 deep roster).
    • Only 1 player from each team can try out. (Example: QB Jalen Hurts and HB Saquon Barkley from the Philadelphia Eagles, both cannot try out).

    While this is an exciting development, the LA 2028 Games are still years away. A lot can happen in the time. Players playing college football right now could end up on the roster.

    Logo for the LA 2028 Olympic Games featuring the text 'LA 28' with colorful Olympic rings below.

    Personally, I don’t think flag football should be an Olympic sport.

    They’re trying to attract “younger viewers”, and flag football is gaining popularity in youth sports and college campuses. So, I understand the reasoning behind the decision.

    That being said, of course I’m going to watch it. It’s football.

    NBA PLAYOFFS.

    The #1 seeded Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the #6 seeded Minnesota Timberwolves 114-88 in Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals.

    The Timberwolves had a 48-44 lead at the half, behind PF Julius Randle’s 20 points.

    The break completely changed the momentum of the game, as the Thunder, led by PG Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, scored 20 of his team-leading 31 points in the 2nd half.

    OKC scored 32 points in the 3rd quarter and 38 in the fourth quarter to get the important win at home. They now led the series 1-0. Full game highlights below.

    Game 2 is Thursday night, in Oklahoma City, at 8:30 PM, on ESPN.

    NHL STANLEY CUP PLAYOFFS.

    The A3 Florida Panthers went into Charlotte, North Carolina and got a big win against the A2 Carolina Hurricanes 5-2, in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals.

    The Panthers special teams were on displayed, as they got powerplay goals by C Carter Verhaeghe in the 1st period, and C Sam Bennett in the 3rd period.

    There was a stretch where Florida did not have a single shot for 15 minutes in the 2nd period. Carolina just dominated the puck. They had their chances, but Panthers goalie Sergei Bobrovsky was just a brick wall. He stopped 31 of 33 total shots he faced. Full game highlights below.

    Game 2 is Thursday night, in Charlotte, at 8:00 PM (EST) on TNT, truTV, and Max.

    MLB SCORES.

    The Chicago Cubs put a beatdown on the Miami Marlins 14-1.

    The Red Sox get their 2nd straight win over the New York Mets 2-0.

    The Detroit Tigers beat the St. Louis Cardinals 5-4.

    The lowly Colorado Rockies continue to struggle as they lose to the Philadelphia Phillies 7-4.

    The Los Angelos Dodgers get the win over the Arizona Diamondbacks 4-3.

    The New York Yankees beat the Texas Rangers 5-2.

    OTHER NEWS.

    The Ottawa Charge defeated the Minnesota Frost in Game 1 of the PWHL (Professional Women’s Hockey League) Walter Cup Finals, 2-1 in overtime.

    Charge F Emily Clark scored the game winner at 2:47 into the OT period, beating Frost goalie Nicole Hensley just over the goalie stick. Full game highlights below.

    Game 2 is Thursday night, in Ottawa, at 7:00 PM (EST) on TSN and RDS in Canada and FanDuel Sports North and PWHL YouTube channel in America.

    – by Sean McKenzie

    Follow me on X (Twitter) @JoeAmerican6771 and @allsportsfancom.

    Stats and information courtesy of…..ESPN, NFL, Olympics, NBA, NHL, MLB, PWHL.

    Pictures and videos courtesy of…..wallpapercave, Olympics, and YouTube.

  • Shedeur Sanders Signs Rookie Contract, LB Warner Signs Big Contract, NHL Referee Gets Stitches, and more.

    NFL NEWS.

    Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders throwing a football during practice.

    Cleveland Browns 5th round quarterback Shedeur Sanders has signed his rookie contract.

    It is a 4-year, $4.6 million dollar deal. with a $447,380 signing bonus.

    I’m not going to talk about his “slide” in the draft. I’ve already done an article on that, plus we all know that story, it’s been beaten to death.

    I’m “on the record” with my prediction that Sanders will be QB2 when the season starts.

    San Francisco 49ers linebacker Fred Warner in action during a game, wearing a red jersey with the number 54 and looking toward the opposing team's player.

    The San Francisco 49ers have made LB Fred Warner the highest paid “off ball” linebacker in the NFL.

    They came to terms on a 3-year, $63 million dollar contract extension, with $56 million dollars guaranteed. This new deal keeps Warner the red and gold through the 2029 season.

    The linebacker had 131 total tackles, 1 sack, 4 forced fumbles, and 2 INTs last season, all of which earned him his 4th All-Pro appearance and 3rd straight.

    NHL NEWS.

    NHL referee Chris Rooney receiving medical attention after an injury during a playoff game, with players and staff assisting.

    Veteran NHL referee Chris Rooney received stitches Sunday night after taking a high stick to the face by Panthers Defenseman Niko Mikkola, during the 2nd period of the Maple Leafs/Panthers pivotal Game 7.

    Medical personnel from both teams attended to him, and a stretcher was brought out; however, he refused and skated off the rink under his own power.

    Rooney hopes to return to resume duties during these Stanley Cup Playoffs.

    MLB SCORES.

    Collage of Major League Baseball team logos on a colored background.

    Guardians\Twins game was suspended in the 4th inning due to rain. Twins were up 2-1. Game resumes tonight at 6:10 PM (EST).

    Marlins beat the Cubs 8-7.

    Reds win 7-1 over the Pirates.

    Red Sox beat the Mets 3-1.

    Diamondbacks get the win over the Dodgers 9-5.

    The Cardinals beat the surging Tigers 11-4.

    Question of the day – What is your favorite sport to watch?

    – by Sean McKenzie

    Stats and information courtesy of…..ESPN, NFL, NHL, MLB.

    Photos courtesy of…..wallpapercave, profootballnetwork, PFF, and SI.

  • NFL News, NBA and NHL Conference Finals Set, MLB Pitcher Test Positive, Scores, and more.

    An artistic collage of NFL team helmets arranged in a circular pattern around the NFL logo set against a colorful background.

    NFL NEWS.

    The San Francisco 49ers have signed their starting quarterback Brock Purdy to a 5-year $265 million dollar contract extension, including $181 million dollars guaranteed. The new contract runs through the 2030 season.

    Purdy made a total of $2.6 million in his first three seasons combined, now he’ll have an average salary of $53 million dollars, which is $2.9 million per week.

    The old saying “He who laughs last, laughs the hardest”. Well, Purdy who is known as “Mr. Irrelvant” for being the final pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, is laughing all the way to the bank.

    In his career, Purdy has completed 67.5% of his passes, for 9,518 yards, with 64 TDs and 27 INTs.

    NBA PLAYOFFS.

    An infographic displaying the NBA playoff bracket for the current season, featuring matchups between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Memphis Grizzlies, Denver Nuggets and Los Angeles Clippers, Minnesota Timberwolves and Los Angeles Lakers, and Houston Rockets and Golden State Warriors.

    The NBA Conference Finals are now set.

    The #1 seeded Oklahoma City Thunder will take on the #6 seeded Minnesota Timberwolves in the West.

    The Thunder and Wolves split the season series 2-2.

    Game 1 is Tuesday night, in Oklahoma City, at 8:30 PM (EST) on ESPN.

    The #3 seeded New York Knicks will take on the #4 seeded Indiana Pacers in the East.

    The Knicks got the season series 2-1.

    This is a great nostalgia feel for me. Brings back memories of the Knicks-Pacers rivalry games in the 90’s.

    Game 1 is Wednesday night, in New York, at 8:00 PM (EST) on TNT, truTV, and Max.

    NHL STANLEY CUP PLAYOFFS.

    NHL playoff bracket showing matchups for the Conference Finals, including teams like the Winnipeg Jets, Dallas Stars, Edmonton Oilers, Florida Panthers, and more.

    The Conference Finals for the Stanley Cup are now finally set.

    In the West, the C2 Dallas Stars will take on the P3 Edmonton Oilers.

    Game 1 is Wednesday night, in Dallas, at 8:00 PM (EST) on ESPN.

    In the East, the A3 Florida Panthers will take on the very rested M2 Carolina Hurricanes.

    Game 1 is Tuesday night, in Charlotte, at 8:00 PM (EST), on TNT, truTV, and Max.

    MLB SCORES AND NEWS.

    Philadelphia Phillies P Joe Alvarado has been suspended by Major League Baseball for the next 80 games, after testing positive exogenous testosterone, which is a performance-enhacing drug.

    Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Joe Alvarado wearing a grey uniform with red accents, holding a baseball glove and looking upwards, in a stadium setting.

    The suspension is effective immediately and also disqualifies him from being eligible to play in the postseason, if the Phillies make the playoffs.

    Alvarado will not appeal the suspension.

    My Aunt Chris’ teams continue to beat mine in 2025, as her Cincinnati Reds complete the weekend sweep against my Cleveland Guardians with a 3-1 win yesterday afternoon.

    The Milwaukee Brewers ended the Minnesota Twins 13-game winning streak with a 5-2 win.

    The Cubs sweep the White Sox with a 6-2 win.

    The Yankees take two out of three from the Mets in the Subway Series, as they get the 8-2 victory last night.

    OTHER NEWS.

    The PWHL’s (Professional Women’s Hockey League) Walter Cup Finals are set.

    The Ottawa Charge will take on the defending champion Minnesota Frost.

    I’m very much looking forward to this series. Both teams have good goalie tandems and strong forward lines.

    Two female hockey players competing on the ice, one in a red jersey and the other in a white and purple jersey, with a focus on their intense gameplay and teamwork.

    Women’s hockey doesn’t get enough love or credit.

    Game 1 is Tuesday night, at TD Place in Ottawa, at 7:00 PM (EST), on TSN and RDS for Canada, and on FanDuel Sports Newtwork North and YouTube for America.

    Prediction – I love that Ottawa has made it here, it’s good for the city and the fans, but Minnesota has been here before.

    Frost forwards Kendall Coyne-Schofield (12G-12A-24P) and Taylor Heise (8G-14A-22P) just always seem to be around the puck in the big moments this season. The Frost also have a big edge on the Powerplay and Penalty Kill.

    I’m taking Minnesota to repeat as Walter Cup Champions winning in 4 games.

    A female hockey player in a white jersey with purple accents joyfully holds up a championship trophy above her head, celebrating a victory in front of a cheering crowd.

    – by Sean McKenzie

    Stats and information courtesy of…..ESPN, NBA, NHL, MLB, NWHL, NFL.

    Pictures courtesy of…..wallpapercave, bleacherreport, totalprosports, kare11, chicagotribune.