Walking into the hallway of Crestview, I was immediately greeted by the smell of popcorn and pizza. Which was such a kick in the pants, since my doctors put me on a strict diet. LOL.
Kids were running around the hallway, full of energy adults wish they had. Parents chatting like they hadn’t seen each other since…. Friday night’s football game.
The Crestview Lady Knights Volleyball team were opening their season at home, against the Paulding Panthers, in a non-conference game.
With the high school gymnasium under renovation until late September, the games are being played in the middle school. Despite that, it was a full house. Old and young, even some former players stopped by for the game.
The Lady Panthers went up quickly 3-0 in the first set, and didn’t let up at all, winning it easily, 25-13.
The second set started with both teams at one point apiece, when the floor official stopped play, called both of the team captains over to him, and had some words. There was a lot of net entanglements, and a small bit of chatter.
Afterwards, the teams traded points back and forth. Crestview scored 3 straight points, before Paulding called a timeout down 13-11. They continued to trade points, until Crestview called at timeout, up 19-18. The Lady Knights would end up winning the 2nd set 25-23.
The Panthers would jump out to a 6-0 lead, forcing Knights head coach Tammy Gregory to call a timeout early.
The two huddles were completely different. Gregory was calmly coaching her girls, using her hands to show proper bump techniques and overhands.
Panthers head coach Emily Taylor was enthusiastic and praising her girls for such a hot start.
Unfortunately, for the Lady Knights, the timeout did not stop the momentum right away, as the Lady Panthers promptly made it a 13-2 game. Finally, Crestview would go on their own run, as they’d score 6 straight points, forcing a Panthers timeout.
The Knights would get the score to 16-13, before Paulding would play the Reverse Uno card, and rattle off 4 straight to make it 20-16. Nothing would work for the Knights afterwards, dropping the 3rd set 25-16.
The 4th set would start off with more point trading. The Lady Knights would win a long rally, where both teams showed off tremendous athleticism and stamina, to make it a 3-3 score.
Paulding would win the next point and never let up the rest of the way.
Crestview made it close a few times, cutting the lead to 13-12, 18-16, and 20-17. The Panthers were simply too relentless. Scoring the final 5 points and winning the match 25-17.
I spoke to Crestview Head Coach Tammy Gregory after the game. I asked her what positives, she and the team could take away from the loss.
“We were at a size disadvantage. We were struggling with their size and aggressive attacks. I’m going to go to that third game of the match. You know, we were down, and we could’ve folded very easily, but we fought back.”
There are only 2 seniors on this team. However, a lot of the underclassman, got significant playing time last season. I asked if she expected their continued improvement to really help the team as the season continues.
“I think they’re going to step into their roles very well. What I like about this team, is they have good mentorship and they’re competitors. They have that team chemistry, their drive, and they’re there for each other. They’re going to get better, and they have the drive for that work.”
Leading the way for the Lady Knights…
Serving
Kaci Gregory 13/14 with 2 aces
Lainey Gardner 11/12 with 1 ace
Nora Perkins 10/11 with 1 ace
Ayla Kreischer 10/11 with 1 ace
Hitting
Kaci Gregory 16 kills
Kenadie Schwartz 8 kills
Ayla Kreischer 7 kills
Setting
Nora Perkins 30 assists
Digs
Kaci Gregory 12 digs
Ayla Kreischer 8 digs
Nora Perkins 6 digs
Blocks
Kaylee Owens 2 blocks
Kenadie Schwartz 2 blocks
The Crestview Lady Knights are back on the court this Thursday, as they travel to New Bremen, in another non-conference matchup.
It seemed like a long winter, spring, and summer. After weeks of practicing against your own guys for summer camp, and two scrimmages, it was finally football season again, in the small town of Convoy, Ohio.
Coming in through the north gate, you smell the buttery goodness of popcorn. The Deja Brew coffee truck was making sure to keep you awake and alert. The Knight Pride Club was selling design your own custom tumblers.
Parents were catching up with other parents about summer break, how the team looked, how well they think they would be this season.
The Paulding Panthers won the toss and received the ball to start the game. HB #23 Cooper had a 16-yard run on the opening play, then a 25-yard run of the third play of the drive. Knights DL #1 Beckham Putman would put an end to the drive with a sack on 4th down.
The Knights first drive would end in a three and out, after Panthers #23 would sack QB #9 Cooper Miller for a ten-yard loss on third down.
Both teams would have three and outs on their next possessions.
The Knights would have a bad snap on the punt. Snapping was a big problem for the Knights last season, and it continued not just here, but the whole game.
A defensive face mask penalty would put Paulding at the 2-yard line. An incomplete pass, then the Panthers would call timeout with 1:53 left in the first quarter. Paulding would score a touchdown, but it was negated by an offensive pass interference call, making it now 3rd and goal from the 19-yard line.
The Panthers would drop a pass, and now had a long 4th and goal. They’d use their second timeout with 1:42 left. Knights DB #3 Jacoby Gallimore would break up the pass in the endzone, ending the drive.
Once again, the Crestview offense couldn’t get anything going at all, and had their third straight drive stall, without a first down. That would end the first quarter, with the score knotted up at 0-0.
The Panthers next drive would end with a Knights INT by #4 Hayden Waltmire. Crestview would take over at the 25-yard line. An encroachment penalty would give the Knights a quick five yards, and make it first and ten. After no gain on first, QB Cooper Miller would hit #24 Harper Perrott for a 20-yard gain. The very next play, the Knights would fumble the ball, and the Panthers would recover at the 46-yard line.
Paulding would have four straight runs of -1, 6, 6, and 13 yards, to get the ball to the 30. The Knights would get flagged for defensive pass interference, and that would give them a first and goal at the 7. Losses would send them back to the 19, before Panthers HB #23 Avery Cooper would score a TD on a 19-yard run. PAT was no good, and Paulding had a 6-0 lead with 5:22 left in the 2nd quarter.
Knights QB #9 Cooper Miller would fumble the football on second down. The Panthers would give it back, the very next play, as Crestview LB #14 Tate Lichtensteiger would recover a Paulding fumble.
After a 1-yard run, the Panthers would get hit with another encroachment penalty. Back-to-back runs would give the Knights a first down. The Knights would connect on a 11-yard pass on first down. A holding penalty would put Crestview behind the chains on first down. Incomplete pass on first down, then Miller would throw an INT, which was returned to the 32-yard line.
Paulding would take a 12-0 lead with this TD pass from Ridge Hunt to Jason Manz.
The Panthers would hit a 13-yard pass on first down to the 19. A 2-yard run and, then hit a pass all the way down to the Knights 2. Crestview would get a TFL (tackle for loss). Paulding would use their final timeout with 36 seconds left in the first half. They’d connect with 5-yard TD pass from Ridge Hunt to Jason Manz. The 2-pt attempt was no good, and the Panthers took a 12-0 lead, into the half.
Knights WR #8 Cash Hammons would take the 2nd half kickoff back 68 yards, to the 19-yard line. That would be the highlight. A 4-yard run, a Panthers TFL, incomplete pass, and an 8-yard pass on 4th down, would end the Crestview drive.
Paulding would take over, but a very angry Knights HC Cole Harting would have to call a timeout, as the defense was confused and not set. Crestview would get a TFL, but the Panthers responded with back-to-back passes of 12 and 10 yards. That momentum was short lived, as a holding call on Paulding would back them up 10 yards, making it 1st and 18 at the 24. Two straight incomplete passes ended the drive.
Crestview would get runs of 3 yards, 5 yards, and 2 yards, for a first down.
OHSAA officials would botch would should’ve been a Knights TD pass, instead, calling it a fumble and touchback (it literally happened it front of me, as I was less than 10 feet away from the play).
The lucky break gave the Panthers the ball at the 20-yard line. A quick pass for 11 yards to the 31, followed by runs of 8 yards, 9 yards, and 8 yards, had them rolling with momentum. There was an official’s timeout (I was never told why, even when I asked them after the game). A Knights TFL made it third and long. Paulding would get a 20-yard run to convert.
An incomplete pass, then runs of 8 yards and 1 yard, brought them to a fourth down and 1. Paulding would call a timeout to discuss strategy with 2:23 left in the third quarter. The strategy did not work, as an incomplete pass lead to a turnover on downs with 2:17 left.
Once again, the Knights offense couldn’t do anything, and they were barely able to get the punt away, after their 2nd bad snap of the special teams.
The Panthers took over at the 38-yard line. An incomplete pass on first down, then a long run all the way down to the 34. A 24-yard pass had Paulding quickly down to the 10-yard line. Runs of 6 yards and 1 yard, then an incomplete pass, made it another fourth down. Panthers called another timeout with 11:08 in the 4th.
Knights DE #66 Will Sheets got a tipped INT, and returned it all the way to the 45 yard line.
Another Miller incompletion was followed by a Knights timeout with 10:47 left.
They’d get a short 5-yard gain, before QB Cooper Miller would hit WR Cash Hammons for a 40-yard TD pass. The PAT was no good, and the Knights were on the board, but trailing 12-6 with 10:02 left in the game.
Another special teams blunder by the Knights, as the kickoff went out of bounds, giving Paulding the ball at the 35-yard line. Back-to-back runs would quickly have the Panthers to the 47-yard line. Knights DE Will Sheets would get a 5-yard TFL, to make it a long third down and 12. A short run made it fourth down.
The Knights would make their 4th special teams mistake, by running into the punter, for a 5-yard penalty. The Panthers would run a fake punt and convert. Knights DB #23 Wesley Wit would get a 4-yard TFL. An incomplete pass would force a third down, and Paulding would use their final timeout with 6:03 left in the game. The fourth down attempt was incomplete, and they’d turn it over on downs.
Crestview would have a run of 0 yards, and an incomplete pass, before Cooper Miller would hit WR Beau Lichtensteiger all the way down to the 40. HB #22 Evan Brincefield would run for 14 yards on second down, and follow it up with a 10 yard run the next play, to the 30. A 17-yard pass on second down, made it first, but the Knights had another holding penalty.
Knights QB Cooper Miller would throw his second INT of the game, as Panthers CB #4 Emmet Barnes would return it 80 yards for a pick-six TD. The PAT was again, no good, and that would be the final score of the game, giving the Paulding Panthers a 18-6 victory.
The Crestview Knights leading stats
QB Cooper Miller was 10 of 22 for 180 yards 1 TD and 2 INTs. WR Beau Lichtensteiger had 4 catches for 96 yards. HB Evin Brincefield had 15 carries for 63 yards.
I spoke to Crestview Knights Head Coach Cole Harting after the game.
I asked him what positives he could take away from this loss.
“That’s a really good offense, and we held our own. Holding those guys to only 12 points on offense, was a really good job, and I thought our defense did a great job. If we were to play that game again, and held them to 12 points, I’d be happy. We limited a lot of their big plays. Unfortunately, our offense turned the ball to many times, and gave them a lot of short fields. We can’t do that. If we want to win games, we can’t turn the ball over”.
I asked him about Junior QB Cooper Millers’ first start.
“He’s just got to play with confidence. Things didn’t go well in that first half. Things didn’t go his way early on, and he struggled to overcome those. They have a really talented secondary, so he’s just got to stay positive and keep working at it, and just play with a little bit more confidence”.
I asked about how well the defensive line held up, made plays, giving the young secondary time to grow.
“Absolutely. Having those guys up front, just creating havoc every single play. I wanted to create pressure with three or four guys, and we were able to do that consistently”.
The Crestview Knights (0-1) are on the road to take on the Minster Wildcats (1-0) on Friday Night.
The city of Pittsburgh set a new record, with an attendance of over 805,000 people, over the 3-day event.
257 players had their dreams come true, hearing their names called on stage.
The 1st pick wasn’t a surprise as National Champion and Heisman Trophy Winning QB Fernando Mendoza went to the Las Vegas Raiders.
The Raiders also ended the epic slide of CB Jermod McCoy, when they took him with the 101st pick, in the 4th round. The slide was due to medical reports on his knee, otherwise he’d been takin in the 1st round.
There were 11 Ohio State Buckeyes taken, the most in this 2026 NFL Draft Class.
There were 10 Quarterbacks drafted.
There were a whopping 36 WRs drafted.
The Naval Academy had 2 players selected this year. DT Landon Robinson with the 226th pick to the Cincinnati Bengals, and Eli Heidenreich with the 230th pick, to his hometown Pittsburgh Steelers. Both were taken in the 7th round.
Mr. Irrelevant (the name for the player chosen last in the draft), is Red Murdock, LB, from the University of Buffalo.
There were quite a few really good classes this year. Teams did really well at addressing needs and playing the board.
There were also a few stinkers, as well.
So, without further ado, here are a few of the best and worst team class this year.
My Cleveland Browns had one of the best draft classes, however, I will be writing a stand-alone article on them, so they are not included here.
BEST – Carolina Panthers.
Pick 19: T Monroe Freeling, Georgia Bulldogs
Pick 49: DL Lee Hunter, Texas Tech Red Raiders
Pick 83: WR Chris Brazzell II, Tennessee Volunteers
Pick 129: CB Will Lee lll, Texas A&M Aggies
Pick 144: C Sam Hecht, Kansas State Wildcats
Pick 151: S Zakee Wheatley, Penn State Nittany Lions
Pick 227: LB Jackson Kuwatch, Miami (OH) RedHawks
Every single one of these picks, have the chance to be full-time starters, either this season or next season. Freeling might be starting Day 1, because LT Ikem Ekwonu is recovering from a major season ending injury late last season, and RT Taylor Morton is 31 years old and has only 2 years left on his contract.
WORST – Jacksonville Jaguars
Pick 56: TE Nate Boerkircher, Texas A&M Aggies
Pick 81: DI Albert Regis, Texas A&M Aggies
Pick 88: G Emmanuel Pregnon, Oregon Ducks
Pick 100: S Jalen Huskey, Maryland Terrapins
Pick 119: ED Wesley Williams, Duke Blue Devils
Pick 164: TE Tanner Koziol, Houston Cougars
Pick 191: WR Josh Cameron, Baylor Bears
Pick 203: WR CJ Williams, Stanford Cardinal
Pick 233: ED Zach Durfee, Washington Huskies
Pick 240: LB Parker Hughes, Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders
I’m not even going to pretend to know, what the hell the Jaguars were doing. I’m sure this all makes sense in their heads, not only myself, but some Jaguars fans that I spoke to, are completely baffled. I will say this though…. OG Emmanuel Pregnon is a D-A-W-G!!! He was one of my favorite offensive linemen in this entire class.
At least with the 49ers, I knew what their gameplan was here. They’re wanting Stribling to be the replacement for Aiyuk…..OK, but there were better players on the board. I do like CB Prysock. He’s a big corner with long arms, and does a good job locating the ball when it’s in the air. LT Trent Williams is probably retiring after this season, and by taking 2 OTs in Willis and Cruz Jr, they’re hoping for a mid/late round steal. It ain’t happening.
BEST – New York Jets
Pick 2: ED David Bailey, Texas Tech Red Raiders
Pick 16: TE Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon Ducks
Pick 30: WR Omar Cooper Jr, Indiana Hoosiers
Pick 50: CB D’Angelo Ponds, Indiana Hoosiers
Pick 103: DL Darrell Jackson Jr., Florida State Seminoles
Pick 110: QB Cade Klubnik, Clemson Tigers
Pick 188: G Anez Cooper, Miami (FL) Hurricanes
Pick 228: S VJ Payne, Kansas State Wildcats
I ABSOLUTELY LOVE what the New York Jets did in this class. They got the #1 rated DE/EDGE rusher. They got the #1 rated TE. They got my #4 WR prospect. They got the #1 rated Slot CB, who CAN play outside as well. Let me tell you, when Darrell Jackson keeps his hands disciplined and in line with his hips and feet, he just dominates inside. So much potential. QB Cade Klubnik had a down season, but he has great timing and accuracy on all levels of the field, with a smooth throwing motion. Do NOT be surprised, if he easily beats out Brady Cook for the backup QB spot, and plays significant time if Geno Smith struggles as the starter.
WORST – Dallas Cowboys
Pick 11: S Caleb Downs, Ohio State Buckeyes
Pick 23: ED Malachi Lawrence, UCF Knights
Pick 92: ED Jaishawn Barham, Michigan Wolverines
Pick 112: T Drew Shelton, Penn State Nittany Lions
Pick 114: CB Devin Moore, Florida Gators
Pick 137: ED LT Overton, Alabama Crimson Tide
Pick 218: WR Anthony Smith, East Carolina Pirates
They had THE BEST pick in the 1st round, with the #1 overall player in the entire draft (safety Caleb Downs) just fall into their lap. After that, they completely tanked. They wanna get more pressure on opposing quarterbacks, that’s great, but there were far better options at 23, 92, and even 137. It’s like they just threw spaghetti on the wall, and hoping that something sticks. OT Drew Shelton struggles against good competition, and the NFC East is a tough place for linemen.
BEST – Miami Dolphins
Pick 12: T Kadyn Proctor, Alabama Crimson Tide
Pick 27: CB Chris Johnson, San Diego State Aztecs
Pick 43: LB Jacob Rodriguez, Texas Tech Red Raiders
Pick 75: WR Caleb Douglas, Texas Tech Red Raiders
Pick 87: TE Will Kacmarek, Ohio State Buckeyes
Pick 94: WR Chris Bell, Louisville Cardinals
Pick 130: LB Trey Moore, Texas Longhorns
Pick 138: LB Kyle Louis, Pittsburgh Panthers
Pick 158: S Michael Taaffe, Texas Longhorns
Pick 177: WR Kevin Coleman Jr., Missouri Tigers
Pick 180: TE Seydou Traore, Mississippi State Bulldogs
Pick 200: G DJ Campbell, Texas Longhorns
Other than their first pick (OT Kadyn Proctor), who is going to absolutely fail miserably, this is a GREAT draft by Miami. CB Chris Johnson is a Day 1 starting cornerback. LB Jacob Rodriguez is a turnover machine and is always around the football. WR Chris Bell was a LOCK to be a 1st Round WR before he tore his ACL late last season. He’s a great X WR and will be starting as soon as he is medically cleared. LB Kyle Louis is a tacking machine. S Michael Taaffe can do everything you need a safety to do.
In summary, the 2026 Draft Class will go down as one of the strangest classes of all-time, certainly in my lifetime. Shocking picks, epic slides, a record-breaking number of trades, kept not just the teams on their toes, but fans on the edge of their seats or wondering….. “What the heck are they doing?”
For the delicious breakfast bowls and bagels, as well as high protein snacks, and boba drinks, stop into The Daily Dose in Convoy. Located on the corner of US-49 and Tully Street. Check out their Facebook page for special drinks and menu items.
– by Sean McKenzie
Information courtesy of…..NFL, ESPN, and PFF.
Pictures courtesy of…..wallpapercave, USAToday, and WTAE.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Week 8 is absolutely stacked with incredible games, as conferences are in the middle of playing out their schedule.
We’ve already had a major upset, as the FIU Panthers (Florida International University) defeated the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers, 25-6. WKU was in the running to get that “G5 spot” in the college football playoffs.
I could drone on and on, about each game, including a big game in the UAC (FCS) as the West Georgia Wolves (5-1) coming off an embarrassing loss, is looking to go into Stephenville, Texas and upset the #2 ranked Tarleton State Texans (7-0).
So here we go, the Top 3 college football games you SHOULD watch, (including a bonus game).
I am 10-5, in my predictions so far this year.
1) #20 USC Trojans (5-1) at #13 Notre Dame Fighting Irish (4-2). Game starts at 7:30 PM (EST) on NBC and Peacock.
In what could be the second to last game, this historic rivalry has serious repercussions for the college football playoffs.
USC is coming off a big win last week, where they showed off their physical toughness. They’re going to need that again, as they take on a stout ND defense. HBs Waymond Jordan, King Miller, and Eli Sanders, have a combined 1,150 yards and 10 TDs. They’ll need to continue that rotation. QB Jayden Maiava leads the nation in QBR (93.1) and has 13 TDs to only 2 INTs. Of course, having one of the best WRs in the country to throw to, doesn’t hurt. WR Makai Lemon has 44 catches, for 682 yards, and 6 TDs.
The Fighting Irish suffered a heavy blow, as starting C Ashton Craig is gone for the season with a knee injury. Notre Dame has a two headed monster at HB themselves, with Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price. They have a combined 952 yards and 15 TDs. Freshman QB CJ Carr has come in a given them a threatening passing game. He’s thrown for 1,622 yards, with 13 TDs to only 3 INTs. The Fighting Irish have one of the best secondaries in America, with 11 INTs.
Prediction – There’s not many things better than a night game at Notre Dame, and this is going to be the best game of the week. Both teams have so much to play for. The injury to Craig is a big deal. In the end, I think USC QB Maiava throws a late pick, in a close 31-28 victory for the Fighting Irish.
2) #5 Ole Miss Rebels (6-0) at #9 Georgia Bulldogs (5-1). Game starts at 3:30 PM (EST) on ABC.
Ole Miss is looking to make it back-to-back to win over Georgia, and the Bulldogs need to win this game, or they’ll have 2 conference losses already.
This is a run heavy, ball control offense that the Rebels put out on the field. HB Kewan Lacy leads the team with 126 carries, for 587 yards, and 8 TDs. Dual threat QB Trinidad Chambliss has thrown for 1,286 yards, with 7 TDs and only 1 INT; but it’s his 61 carries, for 281 yards, and 3 TDs, that keeps defenses guessing.
Bulldogs QB Gunner Stockton, has thrown for 1,264 yards, with 6 TDs and only 1 INT. His scrambling ability keeps linebackers at bay with 220 yards and 6 rushing TDs. They have 2 HBs that split carries, in Chauncey Bowens and Nate Frazier. This is not the usual “Georgia defense”, as they only have 8 team sacks and only created 6 turnovers. They still remain fast and gap sound though.
Will the disgusting bias officiating in favor of Georgia (like we saw last week), show up again, or will they overcorrect in favor of Ole Miss???
Prediction – Georgia knows that a loss could very well mean they’re out of the conference title race. Ole Miss knows that this is probably their toughest game left this season. I’m expecting a defensive battle. My head is saying UGA. My heart is saying Ole Miss……I’m going to follow my heart and take the Rebels to win 17-13.
3) #11 Tennessee Volunteers (5-1) at #6 Alabama Crimson Tide (5-1). Game starts at 7:30 PM (EST) on ABC.
It’s the “Third Saturday in October”. A big SEC rivalry game. This time, there are serious conference and CFP implications on the line.
Can Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel ACTUALLY win a “big game”?
This is a balanced offense. QB Joey Aguilar has thrown for 1,680 yards, with 14 TDs and 5 INTs. It’s the running game that wears down an opposing defense. HBs Desean Bishop, Star Thomas, and Peyton Lewis have a combined 1,009 yards and 14 TDs. This is a Volunteer defense that gets serious pressure on opposing QBs, with 26 team sacks, leading to 4 INTs, 11 forced fumbles, and 7 fumble recoveries.
This Crimson Tide team is all about QB Ty Simpson. He’s stepped right into the fire, and thrown for 1,678 yards, with 16 TDs to only 1 INT. The defense doesn’t get many sacks (9 total), but they force the opposing team into mistakes, with 6 INTs, 6 forced fumbles, and 5 fumble recoveries.
Prediction – You CAN NOT ignore Heupel’s tendency to choke in big games. Alabama has been playing great since their opening season loss to FSU. As much as I truly want to pick TEN, I simply can’t. Give me the Crimson Tide to win 35-28.
BONUS GAME
#23 Utah Utes (5-1) at #15 BYU Cougars (6-0). Game starts at 8:00 PM (EST) on FOX.
The Holy War.
A long-standing rivalry and a long history of these two teams completely destroying each other’s hopes and bowl season dreams.
The Utah offense lives and dies with QB Devon Dampier. He’s completing 71.5% of his passes, for 1,131 yards, with 11 TDs and 3 INTs. His 65 carries, for 378 yards with 5 TDs leads this Utes offense. It goes as he goes. This defense is led by one of the best pass rushers in the nation. DE John Henry Daley leads the team in tackles (30) and sacks (8), and he’s forced 2 fumbles.
BYU also has a dual-threat QB in freshman Bear Bachmeier. He’s thrown for 1,220 yards, with 8 TDs and 3 INTs. He has 71 carries, for 295 yards and 7 TDs. HB LJ Martin has 101 carries, for 652 yards, with 4 TDs. The Cougar defense has 8 INTs this season,
Prediction – This is one of those rivalry games, that’s completely whack-a-doo. Nothing ever goes as you think it will. This is a massive game, in an always wide-open Big 12. I’m taking the Utah Utes to win a close game 27-21.
Week 3 of the college football season, officially starts on Thursday night, when North Carolina State(2-0) travel to Winston-Salem, North Carolina to take on the Wake Forest Demon Deacons(2-0).
There is a nice mixture of rivalry games was well as in-conference games this week.
The “money games” (The Ohio State Buckeyes are paying the Ohio Bobcats $1.9 million dollars to play in Columbus) are starting to come an end. THANK YOU!!!
Let’s be honest, how many times we can watch a “directional school” lose to a P4 team 70-0. It just gets old, real fast.
One of the WORST games coming up this week is the Oregon Ducks (2-0) going to Evanston, Illinois to take on the Northwestern Wildcats(1-1), on FOX as it’s “Big Noon Saturday”.
It’s going to be an absolute mud stomping.
Here are the Top 3 games you should watch for Week 3.
1) #16 Texas A&M Aggies at #8 Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Game starts at 7:30 PM (EST) on NBC.
The undefeated Aggies are looking to come into South Bend, and keep the Fighting Irish winless.
Last year’s game in College Station saw the Aggies blow a 13-6 lead in the fourth quarter, as Notre Dame got the win 23-13.
These two teams are completely different, as the Irish are starting CJ Carr at QB, and HB Jeremiyah Love is looking to improve on his 10 carries for only 33 yards in Week 1.
Aggies sophomore QB Marcel Reed has thrown for 7 TDs to 0 INTs, and he’s the teams leading rusher with 105 yards.
If Notre Dame loses, thier road to the college football playoffs is basically gone.
Prediction – Aggies get revenge 28-24.
2) #6 Georgia Bulldogs at #15 Tennessee Volunteers. Game starts at 3:30 PM (EST) on ABC.
The Bulldogs have won 8 straight games in this rivalry, only 1 win away from tying the longest winning streak. Currently at 9, held by Tennessee (1989-1999).
Georgia is looking to get back to Bulldogs football, which is a great defense and strong running game. They’ve got 429 yards rushing through 2 games.
Head coach Josh Heupel and his Tennessee offense is at it’s best with a good running game and play action pass. They have run for 505 yards and 7 TDs through 2 games.
Appalachian State transfer quarterback Joey Aguilar will face the biggest test of his college football career so far. He’s thrown for 535 yards with 5 TDs and 0 INTs for the Volunteers.
Prediction – Make it 9 straight, in close game 31-28.
3) Pittsburgh Panthers at West Virginia Mountaineers. Game starts at 3:30 PM (EST) on ESPN.
The 108th Backyard Brawl.
Nothing like old-school, smashmouth, pure hatred rivalry.
This game always means a lot, and even moreso this season, as West Virginia is coming off a bad loss to the Ohio Bobcats in Week 2.
They need better from junior quarterbak Nicco Marchiol. Only 1 passing TD through 2 games is simply not good enough.
Their defense has played great so far, with 7 sacks, 3 INTs, and 3 forced fumbles.
The Panthers are 2-0, and led by sophomore quarterback Eli Holstein. He’s thrown for 519 yards, with 8 TDs and only 2 INTs in two games.
The defense gets after the opposing quarterback consistently, with 8 sacks on the season.
Prediction – Pittsburgh makes it 2 straight wins 24-21.
The Crestview Knights varsity team started the 2025 high school football season against rival Parkway, with a big 62-41 to beat the Panthers for the 5th straight season.
From the opening drive, it was the Braxton Leeth show in Rockford, Ohio.
The 6’0″, 185 lbs HB/DB, ran by, ran around, and ran through, the Panthers defense, for new school records of 408 yards rushing and scored 7 touchdowns.
He continues to display the power to break through arms tackles, and the speed to take it to the house from anywhere on the field.
I spoke to Knights Varsity Head Coach Cole Harting today.
“Defensively we missed some tackles, so we gotta clean that up. We had a few penalties, which isn’t too bad for a first game. We got some things to work on in practice and get ready for next week.”
The Knights (1-0) varsity football team will play the 4-time defending state champion Marion Local Flyers (1-0), at home, next Friday night at 7:00 PM.
On Saturday morning, the Crestview Knights JV team hosted the Parkway Panthers.
The Panthers started the game on offense. The Knights got a big sack on the third play of the game, forcing a punt. Crestview offense stalled out, after long completion from quarterback #9 Cooper Miller to wide receiver #11 Logan Matson.
Knights TE/DL #84 Beckham Putman would put Crestview on the board first, with a scoop and score fumble recovery (2 pt attempt failed).
The Knights struggled in the first quarter with penalties. They had three offsides calls against them, including one that gave the Panthers a first down.
In the second quarter, the Knights would get back on the board when an bad snap sailed high. RB/LB #25 Noah Mosier would scoop and score, for the defense to get their second touchdown of the half. (The 2 pt attempt would be successful), to make it a 14-0 game. Crestview would take that lead into halftime.
The Knights would start the second half on offense HB/LB #32 Trenton Osborn slashed and gashed his way to a big run on the first play. On fourth down the Knights would commit another penalty. Illegal motion on 4th and 8. Parkway would get the stop on the next play.
Knights QB #9 Cooper Miller was shaken up on a big hit the following drive and would be done for the rest of the game.
Parkway would finally get on the scoreboard with a touchdown pass (2 pt attempt failed), to make it a 14-6 game in the 3rd quarter.
In the fourth quarter, the Knights would attempt a fake punt on a fourth down, which the Panthers snuffed out easily.
The Knights would force a fumble (I missed the number), on a fourth down attempt by Parkway.
Crestview would finish the scoring for the day, with a trick play touchdown. Knights HB/LB Noah Mosier would score again. Breaking a tackle and taking it the house (2 pt attempt successful), making it a 22-6 game.
It was a sloppy game by the Knights. They struggled with penalties, and QB Cooper Miller threw 2 interceptions before leaving the game with injury.
The Knights JV team (1-0) will travel down 49-S to take on the Fort Recovery Indians (unknown at press time), next Saturday morning at 10:00 AM.
– by Sean McKenzie
First 3 photos courtesy of…..Wyatt Photograhy.
Number information courtesy of…..Crestview head coach Cole Hardesty media packet.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Quarterback Derek Carr has decided to retire, after 11 seasons in the NFL. The former Raiders and Saints QB attended Fresno State and was the 36th pick in the 2014 NFL Draft. He finishes his career throwing for 41,245 yards, with 257 TDs and 112 INTs.
Rookie mini camps were held over the weekend. Jaguars #2 pick WR/CB Travis Hunter took snaps on the offensive side of the ball. HC Liam Coen said that Hunter will get defensive reps next week. Browns #5 pick DT Mason Graham made headlines after he was caught vomiting on the field. HC Kevin Stefanski blew it off saying that he simply ate too much.
MMA NEWS.
Jack Della Maddalena (18-2) defeated Belal Muhammad (24-4) to become the new UFC Welterweight Champion, in an absolute slugfest. The judges gave Jack the UD win with scores of 48-47 (x2) and 49-46. Jack has now won 18 straight fights. His last lost coming way back in 2016.
Some things just seem to stay the same. Valentina Shevchenko (25-4-1) defended her Women’s Flyweight Championship for a record 10th time, defeating Manon Fiorot (12-2) by UD. 48-47 (x3).
Featherweight legend Jose Aldo (32-10), retired in the octagon after losing to Aiemann Zahabi (13-2).
Former Light Heavyweight Champion Vitor Belfort will be inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame later this year.
Belfort (26-14) burst onto the scene when he won the UFC Heavyweight Tournament back in 1997, at only 19 years of age.
In 2013, his legal use of testosterone-replacement therapy (TRT) became a worldwide sports controversy. The Nevada State Athletic Commission later banned TRT, from competition without medical proof of necessity.
He holds career wins against legends Randy Couture, Wanderlei Silva, Rich Franklin, Luke Rockhold, Michael Bisping, and Dan Henderson.
NBA Playoffs.
The #4 seeded Indiana Pacers defeated the #1 seeded Cleveland Cavaliers 129-109, to take a 3-1 series lead.
PF Pascal Siakam led the team with 21 points. C Myles Turner had 7 rebounds, and PG T.J. McConnell had 8 assists.
Game 6 is Tuesday night, in Cleveland at 7:00 PM (EST) on TNT, truTV, and Max.
The #1 seeded Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the #4 seeded Denver Nuggets 92-87, to tie the series at 2-2.
PG Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led with 25 points and 6 assists. C Isaiah Hartenstein had 14 rebounds to lead the team.
Game 5 is also on Tuesday night, in Oklahoma City, at 9:30 PM (EST) on TNT, truTV, and Max.
NHL STANLEY CUP PLAYOFFS.
The A3 and defending Stanley Cup Champion Florida Panthers, defeated the A1 Toronto Maple Leafs 2-0, to tie the series at 2-2.
Panthers goalie Sergei Bobrovsky got his 5th career playoff shutout, stopping all 23 shots attempted.
Tempers flared at the end of the game, when Maple Leafs C Max Domi (Pussycat Max, as I call him), landed his latest in a long career of cheap shots, this time on Panthers C Aleksander Barkov.
Game 5 is Wednesday night, in Toronto, at 7:00 PM (EST) on ESPN.
The C2 Dallas Stars defeated the C1 Winnepeg Jets 5-2, to take a 2-1 lead in the series.
Stars RW Mikko Rantanen continues his incredible playoff run with another 3 points (1G/2A). Full game highlights below.
Game 4 is Tuesday night, in Dallas, at 8:00 PM (EST) on ESPN.
MLB NEWS.
Phillies beat the Guardians 3-0.
In a battle of division leaders, the Mets beat the Cubs 6-2.
League leading Dodgers beat the Diamondbacks 8-1.
Surprising Tigers lose to the Rangers 6-1.
The Rockies actually win a game!!! Beating the Padres 9-3.
OTHER NEWS.
Congratulations to my Aunt Chris’ as her Toledo Walleye defeated my Fort Wayne Komets 4 games to 2 and advance to the Western Conference Finals in the ECHL Kelly Cup Playoffs.
Question of the day – Did your favorite team make the playoffs?
– by Sean McKenzie
Stats and information courtesy of…..ESPN, NFL, NHL, MLB, ECHL, NBA, bleacherreport, UFC.
Pictures and video courtesy of…..wallpapercave, UFC, ECHL, bleacherreport, and YouTube.
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