Brewers Strike First in NLCS as Ohtani’s Postseason Struggles Continue
The Milwaukee Brewers have drawn first blood in the National League Championship Series, defeating the Los Angeles Dodgers 2-1 Sunday night at American Family Field to take a 1-0 series lead.
In a matchup featuring the National League’s two best regular-season teams, Milwaukee relied on timely hitting and another strong performance from its pitching staff to overcome the defending World Series champions.
For Los Angeles, however, the loss highlighted a growing concern surrounding its offense, particularly the continued struggles of superstar Shohei Ohtani.
The Dodgers entered the series hoping to build on their NLDS victory over Atlanta, but their offense struggled to capitalize on scoring opportunities against Milwaukee’s pitching staff. (Reuters)
Milwaukee’s Pitching and Timely Hitting Make the Difference
The Brewers entered Sunday night’s contest with something to prove after being swept by Los Angeles in last year’s NLCS.
Despite falling behind early, Milwaukee remained composed against Dodgers starter Tarik Skubal, who struck out seven batters but ultimately surrendered both of the Brewers’ runs.
Brice Turang delivered Milwaukee’s first major breakthrough in the fourth inning, launching a solo home run to tie the game at one. An inning later, Luis Lara drove in the go-ahead run with an RBI single, giving the Brewers a lead they would not relinquish.
Milwaukee starter Jacob Misiorowski worked through 4⅓ innings, allowing one run on five hits while striking out five. Although the Dodgers forced him to throw 94 pitches, the Brewers’ bullpen ensured his early departure would not become a deciding factor.
DL Hall, Abner Uribe, and Aaron Ashby kept Los Angeles off the scoreboard before Trevor Megill finished the game in the ninth inning.
The victory was particularly significant for a Milwaukee team attempting to reach its first World Series since 1982. (Reuters)
Ohtani’s Postseason Slump Becoming a Growing Concern
While Milwaukee celebrated an important opening victory, Los Angeles was left searching for answers offensively.
At the center of those concerns is Shohei Ohtani, whose production has fallen considerably below the standards he has established throughout his remarkable career.
Ohtani entered the NLCS batting just .154 in the postseason, recording two hits in 13 at-bats during the Dodgers’ four-game NLDS victory over Atlanta. He managed only two singles, two walks, and one stolen base during that series, finishing with a disappointing .421 OPS.
The struggles continued to attract attention entering Sunday’s contest, with Ohtani still searching for the offensive consistency that has made him one of baseball’s most dangerous hitters. (Associated Press)
Ohtani went 1-for-2 with a walk in Game 1, bringing his postseason total to three hits in 15 official at-bats, a .200 batting average.
Although Sunday’s performance offered a slight improvement, the lack of power remains particularly concerning.
Ohtani has not homered since August 18, an unusually prolonged drought for a player whose offensive identity has been built around his ability to change games with a single swing.
The Dodgers have also been forced to adjust his position in the batting order, moving him between several spots as manager Dave Roberts searches for a combination capable of generating more consistent offense. (Yahoo Sports)
Injuries Could Be Playing a Role
Ohtani’s struggles have not developed without explanation.
The four-time MVP dealt with lingering injuries to his right biceps and left knee late in the regular season, limiting his playing time throughout September.
He appeared in just eight games during the month, leaving him with relatively few opportunities to regain his timing before the postseason began.
Roberts has acknowledged that the injuries and limited playing time could be contributing to Ohtani’s difficulties, particularly his ability to recognize pitches and consistently produce quality at-bats. (MLB.com)
For Los Angeles, the situation presents a difficult challenge.
The Dodgers possess one of baseball’s deepest lineups, featuring Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, Will Smith, and several other established offensive contributors. However, Ohtani remains a central figure in the team’s offensive identity.
When he is producing at his usual level, opposing pitchers must account for his ability to generate extra-base hits, reach base consistently, and create scoring opportunities.
Without that production, Los Angeles becomes considerably easier to navigate, especially against a pitching staff as talented as Milwaukee’s.
Brewers Have an Opportunity to Change Last Year’s Narrative
Milwaukee’s Game 1 victory carries significance beyond simply taking an early series lead.
The Brewers finished the regular season with a franchise-record 103 victories, securing the National League’s best record and home-field advantage throughout the postseason.
Despite that success, the memory of last year’s NLCS sweep against Los Angeles remained an important storyline entering this matchup.
Sunday’s victory provided Milwaukee with an opportunity to establish a different narrative against the same opponent that ended its championship aspirations one year earlier. (MLB.com)
The Brewers have demonstrated throughout the season that they can win without relying exclusively on overwhelming offensive production. Their pitching depth, defensive execution, and ability to manufacture timely runs have consistently made them difficult to defeat.
Those qualities were on full display in Game 1.
Dodgers Face Early Pressure Heading Into Game 2
Los Angeles is hardly unfamiliar with postseason adversity, and a single loss does not erase the experience or talent that has helped the franchise capture consecutive World Series championships.
Nevertheless, the Dodgers now face the possibility of falling behind 2-0 before the series shifts to Los Angeles.
Game 2 is scheduled for Monday afternoon in Milwaukee, giving the Brewers another opportunity to capitalize on their home-field advantage.
For the Dodgers, generating more offense will be essential, particularly against a Milwaukee pitching staff that has already demonstrated its ability to limit scoring opportunities.
Ohtani’s performance will remain one of the series’ most closely watched storylines. While his postseason numbers have been disappointing, his ability to take over a game has never been in question.
The challenge now is rediscovering that form when Los Angeles needs it most.
Milwaukee has already delivered the opening statement in this National League Championship Series. If the Brewers continue receiving timely contributions throughout their lineup and strong performances from their pitching staff, the defending champions could find themselves facing a considerably more difficult road back to the World Series than anticipated.
Marvin Harrison Jr. Traded to Houston Texans as DeMeco Ryans Ends Mystery Surrounding Cardinals Deal
One of the NFL’s most unusual trade situations has finally reached its conclusion, with former Ohio State standout Marvin Harrison Jr. heading to the Houston Texans after nearly two days of uncertainty surrounding his future with the Arizona Cardinals. (Houston Chronicle)
On Saturday, reports surfaced that Arizona was finalizing a trade involving Harrison, the fourth overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft. However, unlike most blockbuster transactions, the identity of the team acquiring the 24-year-old receiver remained undisclosed. (NFL.com)
The Cardinals’ own website acknowledged the reports of an impending trade, but neither the destination nor the compensation had been revealed. Houston quickly emerged as a potential landing spot, although speculation continued throughout the weekend as the NFL awaited confirmation. (Arizona Cardinals)
That confirmation eventually came Sunday afternoon from an unexpected source: Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans.
Following Houston’s 26-3 victory over the Tennessee Titans, Ryans was repeatedly questioned about the rumored acquisition during his postgame press conference. After initially avoiding confirmation, the Texans coach finally put an end to the speculation.
“You guys want to know, yes we traded for Marvin Harrison,” Ryans told reporters, officially revealing Houston as the receiver’s next destination. (Houston Chronicle)
The deal sends Harrison and a 2027 seventh-round draft pick to Houston in exchange for a 2027 second-round selection and a 2027 sixth-round pick, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. (Sportsnet)
A Fresh Start After a Disappointing Tenure in Arizona
Harrison arrived in Arizona carrying enormous expectations following an outstanding collegiate career at Ohio State, where he established himself as one of the nation’s premier wide receivers.
The son of Pro Football Hall of Famer Marvin Harrison Sr., he entered the NFL with an impressive combination of size, route-running ability and natural receiving talent. His selection fourth overall in 2024 was supposed to provide the Cardinals with a cornerstone offensive weapon for years to come. (NFL.com)
However, Harrison’s time in Arizona never quite developed into the partnership the organization had envisioned.
Across 33 games with the Cardinals, Harrison recorded 108 receptions for 1,578 yards and 13 touchdowns. His involvement in the offense declined considerably during the opening weeks of the 2026 season, when he managed just five receptions for 85 yards and one touchdown through four appearances. (Reuters)
Under first-year head coach Mike LaFleur, Arizona’s passing attack increasingly featured tight end Trey McBride and receiver Michael Wilson, leaving Harrison struggling to establish a consistent role. (Arizona Cardinals)
What once appeared to be a long-term investment in one of college football’s most promising prospects ultimately ended less than three full seasons after his arrival.
Harrison Reunites With C.J. Stroud in Houston
Perhaps the most intriguing element of Harrison’s move to Houston is his reunion with former Ohio State quarterback C.J. Stroud.
The two previously shared the field in Columbus, developing a productive connection during their time with the Buckeyes. Now, several years removed from their collegiate careers, they will have an opportunity to recreate that chemistry at the professional level. (Houston Chronicle)
For Houston, the acquisition comes at a particularly important point in the season.
The Texans entered Sunday’s matchup against Tennessee without a victory through their first four games, a disappointing start for a franchise that entered the year with postseason expectations. Their convincing victory over the Titans improved their record to 1-4, providing some much-needed momentum before the Harrison trade became public. (Houston Chronicle)
Harrison joins a receiving group featuring Nico Collins, giving Stroud another talented option in an offense that has struggled with injuries and consistency.
While Harrison has yet to fully establish himself as an elite NFL receiver, Houston offers him something Arizona increasingly could not: an opportunity to rebuild his confidence alongside a quarterback already familiar with his abilities. (Houston Chronicle)
The Texans will be hoping that familiarity translates into production, particularly as they attempt to recover from their difficult start to the season.
A Trade That Raises Questions for Both Franchises
For Arizona, moving on from Harrison represents a significant change in direction.
Trading a former top-five draft selection less than three seasons into his career is an acknowledgment that the relationship between player and organization had not developed as expected. The Cardinals will now turn their attention toward building around their remaining offensive talent while using the additional draft capital to address other areas of the roster.
Houston, meanwhile, is taking a calculated gamble on a player whose collegiate accomplishments suggested a considerably higher ceiling than his early NFL production has demonstrated.
The Texans are surrendering a valuable second-round selection, but in return they acquire a young receiver who remains under his rookie contract and possesses the physical tools to become a significant contributor. (Sportsnet)
Whether Harrison can rediscover the form that made him one of the most celebrated prospects in the 2024 draft remains to be seen.
What began Saturday as an unusually secretive trade situation ended Sunday with a head coach confirming the news himself, moments after securing his team’s first victory of the season. (CBS Sports) (Houston Chronicle)
For Harrison, the uncertainty surrounding his destination is finally over. His next opportunity comes in Houston, where a familiar quarterback and a franchise searching for offensive answers could provide the fresh start his NFL career needs.
And for the Texans, the hope is that reuniting two former Ohio State stars will help turn a disappointing beginning into something far more promising.
Guardians Make MLB History With 21 Strikeouts, Complete Remarkable ALDS Comeback Against White Sox
The Cleveland Guardians are heading back to the American League Championship Series, and they did so in historic fashion.
Facing elimination just days earlier, Cleveland completed a remarkable comeback from a 2-0 series deficit Saturday night, defeating the Chicago White Sox 2-0 in Game 5 of the American League Division Series at Progressive Field.
Behind a dominant performance from Gavin Williams and a decisive two-run home run from José Ramírez, the Guardians secured their third consecutive victory to eliminate their division rivals. However, it was Cleveland’s pitching staff that ultimately made history, combining for 21 strikeouts, the most ever recorded by a team in a nine-inning Major League Baseball game, regular season or postseason. (MLB.com)
Williams delivered one of the finest postseason pitching performances in franchise history, striking out 12 batters across 5⅔ scoreless innings while allowing just one hit and two walks. His 12 strikeouts tied Charles Nagy’s franchise record for the most in a single postseason game.
The 27-year-old right-hander was nearly untouchable throughout the evening, keeping Chicago hitless until Kyle Teel delivered a two-out single in the sixth inning. Williams generated 22 swings and misses on 50 swings, consistently overwhelming a White Sox lineup that struggled to make contact throughout the series.
Despite pitching an inning of relief in Cleveland’s Game 4 victory on Thursday, Williams showed no signs of fatigue in the decisive matchup. (CBS Sports)
While Williams controlled the game from the mound, Ramírez provided the offensive breakthrough Cleveland needed.
In the fourth inning, the Guardians’ longtime franchise cornerstone connected on a low breaking ball from Chicago starter Sean Burke, sending it over the right-field wall for a two-run home run that scored Steven Kwan.
The pitch was just 8.88 inches above the ground, making it the lowest pitch hit for a postseason home run since pitch tracking began in 2008. It was also the lowest pitch Ramírez had ever homered on in his major league career.
The swing proved to be the difference in a game where runs were extremely difficult to manufacture. (ESPN)
Cleveland’s bullpen continued where Williams left off, with Erik Sabrowski, Hunter Gaddis and Cade Smith combining to record the final 10 outs without allowing a run.
Chicago threatened in the sixth inning, loading the bases with two outs before Sabrowski struck out Munetaka Murakami to preserve Cleveland’s narrow advantage.
From there, the Guardians’ relief corps shut the door, finishing a combined three-hit shutout and securing the franchise’s second ALCS appearance in three seasons.
The 21 strikeouts established a new MLB record for a nine-inning game, surpassing the previous postseason mark of 19, which Cleveland had also recorded earlier in the series. The Guardians’ pitching staff finished the five-game matchup with an astonishing 75 strikeouts, setting another Division Series record. (MLB.com)
Beyond the historic pitching performance, Cleveland’s comeback was equally impressive.
After dropping the first two games of the series at Progressive Field, the Guardians traveled to Chicago facing the possibility of an early postseason exit. Instead, they responded with consecutive nine-run performances in Games 3 and 4, forcing a winner-take-all Game 5 back in Cleveland.
Saturday’s victory made the Guardians just the 11th team in MLB history to overcome a 2-0 deficit in a best-of-five postseason series, and only the fourth to accomplish the feat after losing the first two games at home.
Ironically, the last team to complete such a comeback was the 2017 New York Yankees, who eliminated Cleveland in the ALDS after falling behind 2-0. Nine years later, the Guardians found themselves on the winning side of a similar turnaround. (MLB.com)
The series victory also adds another chapter to what has already been an extraordinary season for Cleveland.
The Guardians spent much of the regular season chasing Chicago in the American League Central standings before mounting a late-season surge to capture their third consecutive division title.
As recently as August 16, Cleveland trailed the White Sox by six games in the division standings. From that point forward, the Guardians posted an American League-best 25-12 record, eventually overtaking Chicago in September.
That same resilience carried into October, where Cleveland once again refused to let a significant deficit determine the outcome of its season. (CBS Sports)
The Guardians will now turn their attention to the Tampa Bay Rays, who swept the New York Yankees to advance to the American League Championship Series.
Game 1 is scheduled for Monday night in Tampa Bay, with Cleveland seeking its first World Series appearance since 2016.
For a franchise that has not captured a World Series championship since 1948, the opportunity carries considerable significance. Cleveland now stands four victories away from returning to baseball’s biggest stage.
Saturday night, however, will be remembered for more than simply advancing to the next round.
Twenty-one strikeouts. Three consecutive elimination-game victories. A comeback from a seemingly insurmountable series deficit.
The Guardians entered the postseason determined to prove that their late-season resurgence was no coincidence. With one of the most dominant pitching performances in baseball history, Cleveland has given the rest of the American League another reason to take notice.
College Football Chaos: No. 1 Texas Falls as Wave of Upsets Shakes Up National Rankings
Saturday’s college football slate delivered one of the most unpredictable afternoons of the 2026 season, with several ranked programs suffering costly defeats and the national championship picture undergoing a significant shakeup.
From Oklahoma’s dramatic victory over top-ranked Texas in the Red River Rivalry to Kentucky’s overtime triumph against LSU, Week 6 offered no shortage of surprises. South Carolina, North Carolina and UCLA also secured statement victories, while Georgia strengthened its case for the nation’s No. 1 ranking with a hard-fought road win against Alabama.
With conference races beginning to take shape and the College Football Playoff picture growing increasingly competitive, Saturday’s results could have lasting implications for several programs hoping to contend for a national championship. (Reuters)
Oklahoma Knocks Off No. 1 Texas in Red River Rivalry Thriller
The biggest upset of the afternoon came in Dallas, where unranked Oklahoma stunned No. 1 Texas with a dramatic 27-24 victory, handing the Longhorns their first defeat of the season.
Texas entered the matchup undefeated and appeared to have control after taking a 17-10 halftime lead. However, Oklahoma refused to allow its disappointing start to the season to define its performance against its biggest rival.
The Sooners capitalized on costly mistakes from Texas quarterback Arch Manning, who threw two interceptions. Oklahoma defensive back Peyton Bowen delivered one of the game’s defining moments, returning an interception 42 yards for a touchdown. (NCAA.com)
With the score tied late, Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer helped orchestrate the decisive possession, setting up kicker Tate Sandell for a 47-yard game-winning field goal.
The victory marked Oklahoma’s first win over Texas since 2023 and provided a much-needed breakthrough for head coach Brent Venables, whose team entered the rivalry struggling to establish consistency.
For Texas, the defeat could prove especially damaging. The Longhorns entered Saturday atop the national rankings, but their inability to protect the football ultimately opened the door for Oklahoma to deliver one of the season’s biggest surprises. (Reuters)
Kentucky Stuns No. 10 LSU in Overtime
Kentucky continued its remarkable stretch of late-game heroics Saturday, defeating No. 10 LSU 35-34 in overtime and handing the Tigers their second loss of the season.
For the second consecutive week, the Wildcats found themselves in an overtime battle where a two-point conversion ultimately decided the outcome.
Rather than settling for an extra point to extend the contest, Kentucky elected to pursue the victory with a successful two-point attempt, securing another dramatic win. (NCAA.com)
The result represents a significant accomplishment for a Kentucky program attempting to establish itself as a legitimate threat in the Southeastern Conference.
LSU, meanwhile, faces mounting pressure following another close defeat. With two losses already on its record, the Tigers have considerably less room for error as they attempt to remain competitive in the SEC championship race and College Football Playoff conversation.
Kentucky’s willingness to take risks in critical moments has now produced consecutive overtime victories, providing the Wildcats with momentum heading into the heart of their conference schedule. (Reuters)
South Carolina Dominates No. 16 Florida in Gainesville
South Carolina entered Saturday searching for its first SEC victory of the season. By the time the Gamecocks left Gainesville, they had delivered one of the afternoon’s most convincing upsets.
Behind an outstanding performance from quarterback LaNorris Sellers, South Carolina defeated No. 16 Florida 38-19, handing the Gators their second consecutive loss.
Sellers completed 23 of 35 passes for 279 yards and four touchdowns while adding another score on the ground. His five total touchdowns helped South Carolina produce its highest-scoring performance ever in Gainesville. (NCAA.com)
The Gamecocks also capitalized on Florida’s mistakes, preventing the Gators from establishing any sustained offensive rhythm.
The victory provided an important breakthrough for head coach Shane Beamer, who entered the contest facing increasing scrutiny following South Carolina’s winless start in conference play.
Florida’s defeat raises additional concerns about its consistency. After previously demonstrating the ability to compete against talented SEC opponents, the Gators have now suffered consecutive setbacks that threaten to derail their conference aspirations. (Reuters)
No. 21 UCLA Takes Down No. 13 Oregon on the Road
UCLA continued its undefeated start to the season with a 17-15 road victory over No. 13 Oregon, securing its first win in Eugene since 2004.
The Bruins entered Autzen Stadium facing an Oregon program that had established one of college football’s strongest home-field advantages. However, an unusually mistake-filled performance from the Ducks allowed UCLA to escape with a narrow victory.
Oregon committed seven turnovers, including five lost fumbles, repeatedly surrendering opportunities to take control of the contest. (NCAA.com)
UCLA faced adversity of its own when starting quarterback Nico Iamaleava exited with a lower-leg injury. Backup Ty Dieffenbach stepped in and helped the Bruins preserve their advantage.
The victory improved UCLA to 5-0 and further strengthened its position among the Big Ten’s emerging contenders.
For Oregon, the loss marked another frustrating result in a season that began with national championship expectations. Once ranked No. 2 in the preseason, the Ducks now find themselves at 3-2, with their playoff aspirations becoming increasingly uncertain. (Reuters)
Bill Belichick Earns First Ranked Victory as North Carolina Upsets No. 25 Pitt
North Carolina delivered another notable upset Saturday, defeating No. 25 Pittsburgh 21-17 and giving head coach Bill Belichick his first victory over a ranked opponent since taking over the Tar Heels.
The matchup remained competitive throughout, but North Carolina found the offensive spark it needed when Shamar Easter broke free for a 75-yard touchdown reception in the fourth quarter.
Tar Heels quarterback Billy Edwards Jr. completed 18 of 26 passes for 249 yards and two touchdowns, helping North Carolina overcome two interceptions. (Reuters)
Pittsburgh struggled to maintain its offensive production in the second half, particularly without starting quarterback Mason Heintschel, who suffered a season-ending knee injury the previous weekend.
The victory represents an important milestone for Belichick as he continues transitioning from his decorated NFL coaching career to the college game.
For North Carolina, defeating a ranked conference opponent provides a tangible sign of progress and could help build confidence as the Tar Heels continue navigating their ACC schedule. (NCAA.com)
Georgia Defeats No. 6 Alabama, Positions Itself for No. 1 Ranking
Although Georgia entered Saturday ranked higher than Alabama, its 20-17 victory in Tuscaloosa carried major implications for the national championship race.
The Bulldogs relied on a balanced offensive effort and a disciplined defensive performance to defeat the Crimson Tide in one of the weekend’s most anticipated matchups.
Georgia quarterback Gunner Stockton accounted for two touchdowns, while the Bulldogs’ defense recorded four sacks and limited Alabama quarterback Keelon Russell to a season-low 185 passing yards. (Reuters)
The victory was particularly meaningful for head coach Kirby Smart, who improved to 3-7 against Alabama.
With Texas falling to Oklahoma earlier in the day, Georgia now appears positioned to claim the nation’s top ranking when the next AP Top 25 poll is released.
The Bulldogs also strengthened their SEC championship outlook and added another valuable victory to their College Football Playoff résumé. (Associated Press)
Saturday’s Results Set the Stage for Major Changes in the Rankings
Saturday’s wave of upsets served as another reminder of how quickly the college football landscape can change.
Texas entered the weekend as the nation’s top-ranked program and left with its first loss. LSU suffered another damaging defeat, while Florida and Oregon continued to struggle with consistency.
Meanwhile, programs such as Kentucky, South Carolina and North Carolina secured victories that could significantly influence the direction of their respective seasons. UCLA continued to build its résumé as an undefeated contender, and Georgia emerged as the strongest candidate to take over the No. 1 ranking.
Beyond the featured games, Wake Forest’s 38-14 victory over NC State and Army’s 20-17 win against Tulane added to a Saturday filled with surprising results. (CBS Sports)
With conference play intensifying and the margin for error becoming increasingly narrow, the consequences of Saturday’s results will extend well beyond the next set of rankings.
For some programs, the weekend represented a turning point. For others, it exposed weaknesses that could ultimately determine whether their championship ambitions remain realistic.
One thing is certain: October has already begun reshaping the college football season, and Saturday’s results suggest the race toward the postseason is far from settled.
Igor Shesterkin Suffers Season-Ending Knee Injury, Leaving Rangers’ Season in Jeopardy
The New York Rangers have suffered a devastating setback just weeks into the 2026-27 NHL season, as star goaltender Igor Shesterkin has officially been ruled out for the remainder of the year following a right knee injury sustained Friday night against the Washington Capitals.
The Rangers confirmed Saturday that their franchise goaltender would miss the rest of the season, delivering a crushing blow to a team that had opened the campaign with considerable momentum.
Shesterkin suffered the injury midway through the second period of New York’s 3-1 loss to Washington. While scrambling back into position during a Capitals power play, the 30-year-old netminder jammed his right skate against the goalpost, causing his leg to bend awkwardly beneath him. (NHL.com)
Shesterkin remained on the ice in visible pain before being assisted to the locker room by teammates Sean Durzi and Marcus Pettersson. He was unable to put any weight on his injured leg.
The incident immediately raised concerns throughout the Rangers organization, particularly given Shesterkin’s importance to the team’s success.
“It’s awful, you know? He’s a pillar of this team. It stinks,” Rangers captain J.T. Miller told reporters following Friday’s defeat. (Associated Press)
For New York, the injury represents considerably more than the loss of its starting goaltender. It removes arguably the most important piece of a roster attempting to rebound from a disappointing previous season.
A Promising Start Comes to an Abrupt End
Shesterkin had been exceptional through the opening weeks of the season, posting a 3-1-0 record with a 1.75 goals-against average and a .926 save percentage entering Friday’s matchup.
The former Vezina Trophy winner appeared to be returning to the dominant form that established him among the NHL’s elite goaltenders.
His early-season performance even included an unusual milestone. On October 1, Shesterkin became the first goaltender in Rangers history to score a goal, sending the puck the length of the ice into an empty net during a 5-1 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning.
New York had won four consecutive games entering Friday and appeared to be developing consistency under head coach Mike Sullivan.
Now, that momentum faces its most significant challenge yet.
The Rangers experienced similar difficulties last season when Shesterkin missed approximately a month with a lower-body injury. New York ultimately finished last in the Eastern Conference, demonstrating just how difficult life can become without its franchise goaltender.
Rangers Face Major Questions in Goal
With Shesterkin sidelined, New York must now navigate the remainder of the season with considerable uncertainty surrounding its goaltending situation.
Twenty-four-year-old Dylan Garand replaced Shesterkin against Washington, stopping 11 of the 12 shots he faced. Although the Rangers ultimately fell 3-1, Garand has already demonstrated some encouraging potential in limited NHL action.
The young netminder recorded a 22-save shutout against the Detroit Red Wings on October 2 and posted a .948 save percentage across three starts last season.
However, asking a relatively inexperienced goaltender to assume a substantial workload over an entire NHL season presents a considerably different challenge.
Complicating matters further is the status of veteran Joonas Korpisalo, whom New York acquired from the Boston Bruins during the offseason. Korpisalo was placed on injured reserve last week with a lower-body injury and remains week-to-week.
The Rangers entered Saturday facing injuries to both of their established NHL goaltenders, potentially forcing management to explore additional options. (Associated Press)
Whether New York relies on Garand, waits for Korpisalo’s return, or pursues outside help could become one of the defining decisions of its season.
What Shesterkin’s Absence Means for New York
Perhaps the greatest concern surrounding Shesterkin’s injury is the pressure it places on the Rangers’ remaining roster.
For years, New York has relied heavily on its elite goaltending to overcome defensive inconsistencies and remain competitive against the Eastern Conference’s strongest opponents.
Without Shesterkin, the Rangers may no longer have the luxury of allowing opponents extended offensive-zone possessions or surrendering high-danger scoring opportunities with the expectation that their goaltender will consistently bail them out.
That responsibility now shifts toward Sullivan’s defensive structure and the team’s veteran leadership.
Players such as J.T. Miller, Alexis Lafrenière and the rest of New York’s offensive core will also face increased pressure to generate consistent scoring production, particularly if the Rangers struggle to maintain their previous level of goaltending.
Friday’s defeat offered an early glimpse of those challenges. Lafrenière opened the scoring with a first-period power-play goal, but Washington eventually took control behind goals from Timothy Liljegren and Boone Jenner before Tom Wilson added an empty-netter.
The loss dropped New York to 4-2-0, ending its four-game winning streak. (NHL.com)
While the Rangers remain in a competitive position early in the standings, maintaining that success without Shesterkin will require significant adjustments.
The injury could also influence the organization’s long-term direction. Should New York struggle over the coming months, management may be forced to evaluate whether pursuing immediate goaltending help is worth sacrificing future assets or whether a more patient approach would better serve the franchise.
For a team hoping to reestablish itself as a legitimate playoff contender, neither scenario is particularly appealing.
An Early Test That Could Define the Season
There is still plenty of hockey remaining, and the Rangers possess enough experienced talent to remain competitive. However, replacing an elite goaltender for an entire season is among the most difficult challenges an NHL organization can face.
Shesterkin’s absence fundamentally changes the outlook for a team that entered October hoping to put last season’s disappointment behind it.
Sullivan must now find a way to maintain the Rangers’ early momentum while establishing confidence in an uncertain goaltending situation. The team’s defensive performance, offensive consistency and ability to withstand adversity will become increasingly important as the season progresses.
For New York, the question is no longer simply whether the Rangers can return to the postseason.
It is whether they can remain in the playoff conversation without the player who has so often been responsible for keeping them there.
Guardians Rally Past White Sox in Game 4, Force Winner-Take-All Showdown for ALCS Berth
CHICAGO — The Cleveland Guardians were facing elimination just two days ago. Now, they are one victory away from advancing to the American League Championship Series.
Behind a six-run sixth inning and another timely performance from franchise cornerstone José Ramírez, Cleveland defeated the Chicago White Sox 9-5 Thursday night at Rate Field, evening the American League Division Series at two games apiece and forcing a decisive Game 5 at Progressive Field on Saturday.
After dropping the first two games of the series at home, the Guardians have responded with consecutive nine-run performances in Chicago, turning what appeared to be a disappointing postseason exit into an opportunity to complete a remarkable comeback. (MLB.com)
Thursday’s contest was anything but comfortable for Cleveland.
The White Sox struck first in the third inning, taking a 2-0 lead behind a bases-loaded walk from Munetaka Murakami and a sacrifice fly from Sam Antonacci. Chicago maintained that advantage until the fifth, when Cleveland’s offense finally broke through.
Patrick Bailey sparked the comeback with a pinch-hit solo home run off Erick Fedde before Ramírez delivered a two-run blast against reliever Jordan Hicks, giving the Guardians their first lead of the evening at 3-2.
Chicago answered immediately, reclaiming a 4-3 advantage in the bottom of the fifth on another run-scoring plate appearance from Antonacci and a sacrifice fly from Brenton Doyle.
However, the momentum shifted dramatically in the following inning.
Cleveland sent 10 batters to the plate in the sixth, capitalizing on Chicago’s struggling bullpen and producing six runs to take a commanding 9-4 lead. Travis Bazzana delivered a game-tying RBI double before Bailey put the Guardians ahead with a run-scoring single. Ramírez, Chase DeLauter and Jo Adell followed with additional offensive contributions, including a two-run single from Adell that capped the rally.
The six-run outburst tied for the third-most runs scored in a single postseason inning in Cleveland franchise history. (Reuters)
For Ramírez, the performance was another reminder of his importance to Cleveland’s postseason aspirations. The veteran third baseman finished with two hits, three RBIs and two runs scored, providing leadership and production when the Guardians needed it most.
Bailey also delivered one of the game’s defining performances, finishing with two hits, a home run and two RBIs after entering as a pinch hitter.
Meanwhile, Chicago’s bullpen, which had played a significant role in the White Sox building their initial 2-0 series lead, struggled to contain Cleveland’s lineup. Reliever Grant Taylor surrendered four runs without recording an out during the sixth-inning collapse. (Reuters)
The White Sox threatened again in the ninth when Miguel Vargas connected on a solo home run, but Gavin Williams entered in relief and secured the final three outs to preserve Cleveland’s victory.
The Guardians’ pitching staff combined for 12 strikeouts, while Chicago stranded 12 runners on base, missed opportunities that ultimately proved costly in a game that remained competitive through five innings. (CBS Sports)
The victory places the Guardians in a position few teams have managed to reach after losing the first two games of a best-of-five postseason series. No MLB team has completed such a comeback since the 2017 New York Yankees, who accomplished the feat against Cleveland.
Now, the Guardians have an opportunity to reverse that history.
Saturday’s Game 5 will bring the series back to Progressive Field, where Cleveland will have the advantage of playing in front of its home crowd with a trip to the ALCS on the line.
For Chicago, the stakes are equally significant. After controlling the opening two games, the White Sox have watched their opportunity to advance slip away in consecutive contests. Their pitching staff must find a way to slow a Cleveland offense that has scored 18 runs over the past two games.
The winner will advance to face the Tampa Bay Rays in the American League Championship Series, beginning Monday. Tampa Bay secured its place in the next round after eliminating the New York Yankees in three games. (Reuters)
What started as a commanding series lead for Chicago has developed into one of the most compelling matchups of the American League postseason.
For Cleveland, the equation is simple: one more victory to complete the comeback and keep its World Series aspirations alive.
And after two consecutive elimination-game victories on the road, the Guardians will return home Saturday with momentum firmly on their side.
Rays Sweep Yankees, Advance to the ALCS
Rays Sweep Yankees in ALDS, Bring New York’s World Series Hopes to an Abrupt End
The Tampa Bay Rays have eliminated the New York Yankees from the American League Division Series, completing a three-game sweep of their longtime division rivals and advancing to the American League Championship Series for the first time since 2020.
For a Yankees team that entered October with championship aspirations, the series was a disappointing combination of offensive struggles, defensive mistakes and missed opportunities. Tampa Bay, meanwhile, relied on outstanding pitching, timely hitting and disciplined execution to take control of the matchup.
The Rays set the tone from the opening game, limiting New York to just one hit in a 1-0 victory before capitalizing on four Yankees errors in a 5-2 Game 2 win. Facing elimination at Yankee Stadium on Wednesday night, New York put together its most competitive performance of the series but ultimately fell 4-3, bringing another promising season to a frustrating conclusion.
Game 1: Rasmussen Dominates as Rays Take Early Series Lead
Tampa Bay wasted little time establishing its presence in the series opener Saturday night at Tropicana Field.
Starting pitcher Drew Rasmussen delivered one of the most impressive performances of the postseason, carrying a no-hit bid into the eighth inning while striking out 10 Yankees hitters. His command and ability to work effectively through New York’s lineup left the Yankees searching for answers throughout the evening.
The game’s only offense came in the third inning, when Jonathan Aranda connected on a solo home run off Yankees ace Gerrit Cole, giving Tampa Bay a 1-0 advantage.
Cole otherwise delivered a strong performance, but New York’s offense failed to provide the necessary support. The Yankees managed just one hit, an eighth-inning double from catcher Austin Wells, and were unable to push a runner across the plate.
The narrow victory gave Tampa Bay an early advantage in the series and immediately placed pressure on a Yankees lineup expected to produce considerably more offense.
Game 2: Defensive Mistakes Prove Costly for New York
The Yankees entered Monday’s Game 2 looking to even the series, but defensive struggles quickly became the defining story of the evening.
New York committed four errors, including three in the opening inning, allowing Tampa Bay to create additional scoring opportunities and extend innings that otherwise could have ended without damage.
After the teams battled to a 1-1 tie, the Rays broke the game open with a four-run fifth inning.
Richie Palacios delivered the decisive blow with a two-run single to center field, while Jonathan Aranda and Junior Caminero also contributed to Tampa Bay’s offensive production.
Yankees starter Cam Schlittler lasted just 4⅓ innings before being removed, leaving New York’s bullpen to prevent further damage.
Ben Rice provided the Yankees with their only runs, connecting on two solo home runs. However, the lack of offensive production throughout the remainder of the lineup prevented New York from mounting a serious comeback.
Tampa Bay secured the 5-2 victory and took a commanding 2-0 series lead, leaving the Yankees facing elimination as the series shifted to the Bronx.
Game 3: Yankees’ Comeback Falls Short Following Controversial Sixth Inning
With their season on the line Wednesday night at Yankee Stadium, the Yankees finally displayed some of the offensive resistance that had been missing throughout the first two games.
New York kept pace with Tampa Bay through the early innings, answering the Rays’ scoring and keeping the game tied at 2-2 entering the sixth.
However, Tampa Bay once again delivered when it mattered most, scoring twice in the top of the sixth inning to regain a 4-2 advantage.
The most controversial moment of the series followed in the bottom half of the inning.
Yankees shortstop Anthony Volpe appeared to connect on a game-tying two-run home run to left field, sending the Yankee Stadium crowd into celebration. Following a video review, however, umpires ruled that a spectator had interfered with the ball by reaching over the outfield wall.
Instead of a home run, Volpe was awarded an RBI double, reducing Tampa Bay’s lead to 4-3 rather than tying the game.
The ruling proved to be a critical turning point in New York’s comeback attempt. Despite bringing the game within a single run, the Yankees were unable to produce the additional offense needed to extend their season.
Tampa Bay’s pitching staff protected the narrow advantage through the final innings, securing a 4-3 victory and completing the three-game sweep.
Another Disappointing October for the Yankees
For New York, the elimination raises familiar questions about the organization’s ability to translate regular-season talent into postseason success.
The Yankees entered the playoffs with a roster built to compete for a championship, yet their offense struggled to generate consistent production against Tampa Bay’s pitching staff.
Across the three games, New York scored just five runs, with three coming in the final game. Defensive mistakes in Game 2 further complicated matters, giving the Rays additional opportunities that proved costly in such a short series.
While individual performances offered occasional bright spots, the Yankees struggled to put together complete games against a disciplined Tampa Bay club.
The franchise has now gone another season without capturing its 28th World Series championship, extending a drought that dates back to 2009.
Tampa Bay Moves One Step Closer to the World Series
For the Rays, the series represented an impressive display of the formula that has allowed the organization to remain competitive against some of baseball’s highest-spending franchises.
Tampa Bay received outstanding starting pitching, consistent bullpen contributions and timely offensive production throughout the matchup. Rather than relying on overwhelming offensive numbers, the Rays took advantage of their opportunities and forced New York to execute under pressure.
The performances of Drew Rasmussen, Jonathan Aranda and Richie Palacios were particularly important in establishing control of the series, while the pitching staff consistently limited the Yankees’ ability to build sustained rallies.
Now advancing to the American League Championship Series, Tampa Bay finds itself four victories away from another World Series appearance.
For the Yankees, October has once again ended earlier than expected. For the Rays, the opportunity to pursue baseball’s ultimate prize remains very much alive.
OBJ Lands in Minnesota, Adding Another Weapon to Vikings’ Loaded Receiving Corps
The Minnesota Vikings are adding another recognizable name to an already talented group of pass catchers.
Minnesota signed veteran wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. to its practice squad Wednesday, giving the 33-year-old another opportunity after his brief return to the New York Giants ended last week. Beckham appeared in three games for New York this season but did not record a reception before being released.
Now, Beckham lands in one of the more intriguing receiving rooms in football.
The Vikings already feature Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison and Jauan Jennings at wide receiver, along with Pro Bowl-caliber tight end T.J. Hockenson. Jefferson remains the centerpiece when healthy, while Addison has developed into another dangerous option capable of stretching defenses vertically. Minnesota also added Jennings during the offseason after he posted a career-high nine receiving touchdowns in 2025.
Beckham is no longer expected to be the featured receiver he was during the early stages of his career, but Minnesota does not need him to be. If he eventually earns a spot on the active roster, his presence could simply give the Vikings another experienced option capable of contributing in certain packages and providing depth when injuries hit.
That depth is particularly important right now. Jefferson missed Minnesota’s Week 4 victory over Miami while dealing with an ankle injury, and the Vikings have received limited production from their other wideouts outside of Addison.
There is also familiarity between Beckham and Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell. The two were together with the Los Angeles Rams during their Super Bowl LVI championship run, when Beckham became an important piece of the offense after joining Los Angeles midway through the 2021 season. Beckham caught 21 passes for 288 yards and two touchdowns during that postseason.
For his career, Beckham has accumulated 575 receptions for 7,987 yards and 59 touchdowns across 122 regular-season games.
Whether Beckham can still become a meaningful contributor remains to be seen. But for a 4-0 Vikings team with postseason expectations, adding a veteran with his experience is a low-risk move that makes an already deep collection of receiving talent even more interesting.
MLB Playoff Roundup: Divisional Series Take Shape Across Busy Two-Day Stretch
The MLB postseason continued to tighten its grip over the past two days, with four Divisional Series matchups taking center stage on October 5th and 6th.
Chicago and Tampa Bay both moved within one victory of the American League Championship Series on Monday, while the Dodgers regained control of their series against Atlanta on Tuesday. In San Diego, the Padres entered the night fighting to keep their season alive against Milwaukee.
White Sox Rally Past Guardians, Take Commanding 2-0 Lead
The Chicago White Sox continued their impressive postseason run Monday with a 4-3 comeback victory over the Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field, taking a 2-0 lead in the ALDS.
Cleveland jumped ahead 2-0 in the first inning and appeared to be in a strong position behind Gavin Williams, who struck out 11 over five-plus innings. Chicago, however, stayed within striking distance before breaking through in the sixth.
Munetaka Murakami drove in Chicago’s first run before Braden Montgomery delivered the biggest swing of the afternoon, lining a two-run double down the right-field line to put the White Sox ahead. Chase Meidroth followed with an RBI single to extend the advantage to 4-2. (Reuters)
Sean Burke was outstanding out of the Chicago bullpen, allowing just one hit across 5 1/3 innings while striking out six. Jo Adell’s RBI triple brought Cleveland within a run late, but Grant Taylor finished the job to secure the 4-3 victory.
Chicago is now 4-0 this postseason and heads home needing one more win to reach the ALCS for the first time since its 2005 World Series championship season. (The Washington Post)
Yankees’ Defensive Collapse Sends Rays Up 2-0
Things went from bad to worse for the New York Yankees on Monday night.
Tampa Bay defeated New York 5-2 in Game 2, pushing the Yankees to the brink of elimination after taking both games in St. Petersburg.
New York’s defense played a major role in the loss. The Yankees committed four errors, including three in the opening inning, and Tampa Bay eventually broke the game open with a four-run fifth. Richie Palacios delivered a two-run single during the rally as the Rays took advantage of nearly every opportunity New York gave them. (Reuters)
Ben Rice provided essentially all of New York’s offense, hitting a pair of solo home runs, but the Yankees could not generate enough around him.
After nearly being no-hit in their 1-0 Game 1 loss, New York now returns to Yankee Stadium facing elimination. Tampa Bay, meanwhile, has won two dramatically different games — first behind dominant pitching and then by capitalizing on New York’s mistakes.
The Rays hold a 2-0 series advantage with Game 3 set for Wednesday in New York. (MLB.com)
Yamamoto, Dodgers Take Back Control Against Braves
Tuesday’s National League action began with a pitching matchup between Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Chris Sale, and Yamamoto delivered one of the strongest starts of the postseason.
The Dodgers defeated the Atlanta Braves 3-1 at Truist Park, taking a 2-1 lead in the NLDS.
Yamamoto allowed just one run on four hits across seven innings while striking out 10 and walking only one. Atlanta had opportunities but could never produce the big hit, finishing 0-for-6 with runners in scoring position. (Reuters)
Los Angeles did its damage against Sale in the fourth inning.
Kiké Hernández launched a two-run home run to left field to break a scoreless tie. Two batters later, former Braves star Freddie Freeman added a solo homer to make it 3-0. The home run was the 18th of Freeman’s postseason career and came in his first playoff game back in Atlanta. (MLB.com)
Atlanta pushed across its only run on a Drake Baldwin groundout in the fifth, but Yamamoto shut the door from there before Tanner Scott and Edwin Díaz handled the final two innings.
The defending back-to-back World Series champion Dodgers are now one victory away from returning to the NLCS as their pursuit of a third consecutive championship continues. (CBS News)
Padres Fight to Keep Season Alive Against Brewers
The final game of the two-day stretch carries the highest stakes.
Milwaukee entered Tuesday night’s Game 3 at Petco Park holding a 2-0 series lead after winning the first two games in Milwaukee by a combined two runs. The Brewers took Game 1, 3-2, before Jackson Chourio’s dramatic two-run walk-off single delivered a 4-3 victory in Game 2. (Reuters)
Facing elimination Tuesday, San Diego struck first.
Fernando Tatis Jr. brought home the opening run in the third inning before Manny Machado followed with an RBI single, giving the Padres an early 2-0 advantage. Milwaukee answered in the fourth when William Contreras launched a solo home run off Nick Pivetta, cutting the deficit to one. (MLB.com)
For San Diego, there is no margin left for error. A Milwaukee victory ends the series and sends the Brewers to the NLCS, while a Padres win would force Game 4 on Wednesday night.
October Pressure Continues to Build
Two days of Division Series baseball have dramatically changed the postseason picture.
The White Sox and Rays have each pushed traditional American League contenders to the brink. The Dodgers once again look dangerous behind elite pitching and an experienced October lineup. And Milwaukee entered Tuesday night with an opportunity to become the first team of the round to punch its ticket to the League Championship Series.
October is moving quickly, and with elimination games arriving across the schedule, the margin between continuing a World Series run and beginning the offseason has become razor thin.
McKenna Scores First NHL Goal as Maple Leafs Storm Back, Matthews Wins It in Overtime
TORONTO — Gavin McKenna’s first NHL goal came on a night the Toronto Maple Leafs needed a spark.
By the time it was over, the 18-year-old rookie had his first two NHL points, Toronto had erased a three-goal deficit, and Auston Matthews had sent Scotiabank Arena home happy with a dramatic overtime winner.
The Maple Leafs rallied from an early 3-0 hole Tuesday night to defeat the Nashville Predators 5-4 in overtime, with Matthews scoring the winner with just 14 seconds remaining in the extra period. (The Washington Post)
It was the type of game that could have gotten away from Toronto quickly.
Steven Stamkos opened the scoring on the power play at 7:13 of the first period before Nils Höglander doubled Nashville’s advantage less than two minutes later. Höglander struck again early in the second period, suddenly leaving the Maple Leafs staring at a 3-0 deficit on home ice. (The Washington Post)
Then Toronto finally found some life.
John Tavares got the Maple Leafs on the board at 4:56 of the second, with McKenna picking up an assist for the first point of his NHL career. William Nylander followed with a power-play goal just over two minutes later, cutting Nashville’s lead to 3-2 and putting Toronto right back in the game. (Reuters)
Stamkos temporarily slowed the comeback by scoring his second of the night to make it 4-2.
McKenna answered 61 seconds later.
Matthews won a battle along the boards and moved the puck to McKenna, who took the pass and ripped a wrist shot into the top corner past Juuse Saros. McKenna immediately dropped to one knee in celebration as the Toronto crowd erupted around him. (NHL)
After three NHL games without a point, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft suddenly had a goal and an assist in the same period.
And his first goal could hardly have come at a better time.
Rather than allowing Nashville to rebuild its momentum after Stamkos made it 4-2, McKenna’s goal immediately brought Toronto back within one. It was the first real glimpse of the offensive ability that made him one of hockey’s most anticipated prospects and ultimately the first player selected in June’s draft.
The Maple Leafs completed the comeback in the third.
Jack Roslovic tied the game 4-4 at 8:54, beating Saros from the right circle. Toronto briefly appeared to take its first lead a few minutes later when Nylander found the back of the net, but Nashville successfully challenged the play for offside and the goal was overturned. (Reuters)
That sent the game to overtime, where Toronto’s captain took care of the rest.
With the clock winding down, Saros stopped Nylander’s initial opportunity with his skate, but the rebound kicked directly toward Matthews at the bottom of the right circle. Matthews wasted little time, snapping the puck inside the near post with 14 seconds remaining to complete the 5-4 comeback. (Reuters)
Matthews finished the night with a goal and three assists, factoring into four of Toronto’s five goals. His overtime winner was also the 430th goal of his NHL career, moving him past Bill Guerin for ninth-most among American-born players. (Reuters)
Nylander added a goal and two assists, while McKenna finished with his first career multi-point performance.
For McKenna, the night represented another step in what Toronto hopes will become a cornerstone career.
The expectations surrounding the first overall pick were immediate, and going scoreless through his first three games naturally brought additional attention in a market where almost every shift is examined. McKenna even joked before Tuesday’s game about hearing the noise that came with having zero points through his first three appearances. (NHL)
It didn’t take much longer for him to answer it.
His first NHL point helped begin Toronto’s comeback. His first NHL goal kept it alive. And Matthews, the established superstar now playing alongside Toronto’s newest young talent, finished the job.
For a Maple Leafs team trying to turn the page after missing the playoffs last season, Tuesday offered an early look at what Toronto hopes can become a familiar combination — McKenna providing the next wave of offense while Matthews remains the player capable of deciding a game when it matters most.
On Tuesday night, both delivered.
Joe Mixon’s Seahawks Deal Falls Through After Physical, Veteran Remains a Free Agent
Joe Mixon appeared to have found his way back onto an NFL roster. Less than a day later, that comeback was put on hold.
The Seattle Seahawks have decided not to sign Mixon to their practice squad after the veteran running back underwent a physical with the team, according to multiple reports Tuesday. Mixon will instead remain a free agent as he continues searching for an opportunity to return to the league. (NFL)
Seattle had brought Mixon in for a workout Monday while looking for additional depth in an injury-depleted backfield. Head coach Mike Macdonald confirmed the team was going through the process of adding Mixon, and reports initially indicated the 30-year-old would join Seattle’s practice squad once he completed his medical examination. (NFL)
That physical ultimately changed the direction of the move.
The Seahawks elected not to finalize the signing after Mixon underwent the examination. The specific medical issue that caused Seattle to move on has not been publicly disclosed, making it unclear whether the decision was directly connected to the foot problem that cost Mixon the entire 2025 season. (Reuters)
Still, Mixon’s recent injury history will remain a major part of the conversation surrounding his future.
Mixon has not appeared in an NFL game since the 2024 season with the Houston Texans. He missed all of 2025 because of a foot injury and was eventually released by Houston in March, sending the former Pro Bowler onto the free-agent market. (NFL)
Before the extended absence, Mixon showed he could still be a productive NFL running back. In 14 games for Houston in 2024, he rushed for 1,016 yards and 11 touchdowns while adding 309 receiving yards and another score. The performance earned him the second Pro Bowl selection of his career. (NFL)
His résumé stretches well beyond that one season. Originally selected by Cincinnati in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft, Mixon spent seven seasons with the Bengals before joining Houston. He has accumulated 7,428 rushing yards, 2,448 receiving yards and 74 total touchdowns during his NFL career. (Reuters)
Seattle represented an intriguing landing spot because the Seahawks currently need help at running back. Rookie Jadarian Price was recently placed on injured reserve with a chest injury, while Zach Charbonnet continues working his way back from the ACL injury he suffered last postseason. (NFL)
Instead of adding Mixon, Seattle has continued looking elsewhere for depth, including the addition of rookie running back Robert Henry Jr. from Washington’s practice squad. (RealGM Football)
For Mixon, the bigger question now becomes what comes next.
At 30 years old and nearly two years removed from his last NFL appearance, Mixon already faced questions about how much of his previous form he could regain. A team deciding against signing him following a physical could make finding his next opportunity more difficult, particularly with clubs likely to closely examine the medical situation that kept him out throughout 2025.
There is little question about what Mixon accomplished the last time he was healthy. A 1,000-yard season and Pro Bowl appearance in 2024 showed that he was still capable of producing at a high level.
The question is whether another team will be comfortable giving him the opportunity to prove he can do it again.
For now, what briefly appeared to be Mixon’s return to the NFL has been delayed, and the veteran running back remains on the open market.
Joe Mixon Joins Seahawks as Seattle Adds Veteran Backfield Depth
The Seattle Seahawks are adding veteran running back Joe Mixon as they look to strengthen a backfield that has been hit by injuries early in the season.
Seattle plans to sign Mixon to its practice squad following a workout Monday, pending completion of his medical exam. Head coach Mike Macdonald confirmed that Mixon worked out for the team and said the Seahawks were going through the process of bringing him aboard. (NFL)
The move comes at a position where Seattle has quickly found itself short on healthy options. Rookie Jadarian Price was placed on injured reserve with a chest injury, while Zach Charbonnet continues to work his way back from the ACL tear that ended his 2025 season. Charbonnet has returned to team drills but has already been ruled out for Seattle’s upcoming game against the San Francisco 49ers. (Reuters)
Mixon, 30, returns to the NFL after missing the entire 2025 season because of a foot injury. He last played for the Houston Texans in 2024, producing one of the better seasons of his career despite being in his eighth year in the league. (NFL)
In 14 games with Houston, Mixon rushed for 1,016 yards and 11 touchdowns, earning the second Pro Bowl selection of his career. It was also his fifth career 1,000-yard rushing season after previously reaching the mark four times with Cincinnati. (NFL)
Before joining Houston, Mixon spent seven seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals after being selected in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft. He became Cincinnati’s primary running back for much of his tenure and was part of the Bengals team that reached Super Bowl LVI following the 2021 season.
Across eight NFL seasons, Mixon has rushed for 7,428 yards and 60 touchdowns while adding 2,448 receiving yards. His experience as both a runner and receiver gives Seattle a proven veteran option while the team works through its current injuries. (Reuters)
There is still uncertainty surrounding how quickly Mixon could contribute. He has not appeared in an NFL game since January 2025, and beginning on the practice squad would allow him time to become familiar with Seattle’s offense and work his way back into playing condition before a potential elevation to the active roster. (NBC Sports)
For the Seahawks, the addition provides insurance at a position that has suddenly become thin. Seattle currently has Emanuel Wilson, George Holani and Velus Jones Jr. available on the active roster while waiting for Charbonnet and Price to return. (NBC Sports)
Mixon’s eventual role remains to be determined, but his track record gives Seattle an experienced option at a time when additional backfield depth was needed.
Alexander Ovechkin Announces Final NHL Season, Closing the Book on a Historic Career
For more than two decades, Alex Ovechkin has been one of the constants in the NHL.
Now, for the first time, hockey knows exactly when the end is coming.
The Washington Capitals captain announced Monday that the 2026-27 season will be the final year of his NHL career, setting the stage for a season-long farewell to one of the greatest goal scorers the sport has ever seen. Ovechkin made the announcement 21 years to the day after making his NHL debut. (NHL)
Ovechkin, 41, first delivered the news to his Capitals teammates before making the decision public. He said he and his family reached the decision over the summer and wanted his teammates to hear the news from him first. (NHL)
After more than two decades in Washington, the announcement officially begins the final chapter of a career that has changed both a franchise and the NHL record book.
It will be strange to imagine the league without No. 8.
From No. 1 Pick to the NHL’s Goal King
Washington selected Ovechkin with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2004 NHL Draft. After the 2004-05 lockout delayed his arrival, it didn’t take long to understand what the Capitals had.
Ovechkin scored 52 goals and recorded 106 points during his rookie season in 2005-06, winning the Calder Trophy and immediately establishing himself as one of hockey’s premier stars.
That season wasn’t an early-career flash. It was the beginning of more than two decades of remarkably consistent goal scoring.
The defining number, of course, is the one that once seemed unreachable.
894.
Wayne Gretzky’s career goal record stood for more than 25 years and became one of those numbers in professional sports that felt as though it might never be broken.
Ovechkin broke it anyway.
He scored career goal No. 895 against the New York Islanders in April 2025, officially passing Gretzky to become the NHL’s all-time leader. Ovechkin enters his final season with 929 career regular-season goals. (CityNews Winnipeg)
His career, however, has never been defined by a single record.
Ovechkin has won three Hart Memorial Trophies as the NHL’s most valuable player and nine Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophies as the league’s leading goal scorer. His name is scattered throughout the NHL record book, including league records for power-play goals, game-winning goals, overtime goals and 40-goal seasons. (NHL)
There have been harder shots. Faster players. More graceful skaters.
There has never been another goal scorer quite like Alex Ovechkin.
Finally Lifting the Cup
For all of the goals and individual awards, one accomplishment remained missing for much of Ovechkin’s career.
The Stanley Cup.
Washington repeatedly entered the postseason with championship expectations during Ovechkin’s prime, only to run into one painful playoff exit after another. The Capitals couldn’t get over the hump, and as the years passed, questions began to follow Ovechkin about whether he would ever win a championship.
Then came 2018.
Ovechkin and the Capitals finally broke through, defeating the Vegas Golden Knights in the Stanley Cup Final to capture the first championship in franchise history. Ovechkin was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy as the most valuable player of the postseason. (MoCo Show)
Of all the numbers attached to his career, the image of Ovechkin finally lifting the Stanley Cup may ultimately be the one Washington remembers most.
One Player, One Franchise
There is another part of Ovechkin’s career that has become increasingly uncommon in modern professional sports.
He never left.
Through trade rumors, contract negotiations, playoff disappointments, roster changes and different eras of Capitals hockey, Ovechkin remained in Washington.
The 2026-27 campaign marks his 22nd NHL season, all with the Capitals. Ovechkin and Sidney Crosby joined Gordie Howe, Alex Delvecchio, Stan Mikita and Steve Yzerman as the only players in NHL history to play 22 seasons with one franchise. (NHL)
An entire generation of Capitals fans has grown up without ever knowing a team that didn’t have No. 8 somewhere near the center of it.
He didn’t simply play for the Capitals. He became the Capitals.
Ovechkin helped transform Washington from a franchise searching for an identity into one of hockey’s most recognizable organizations. His longevity has now extended beyond hockey, too. When he made his season debut on Oct. 2, Ovechkin surpassed Washington Senators pitcher Walter Johnson as the longest-tenured athlete in Washington, D.C. professional sports history. (NHL)
For nearly two decades, whenever the Capitals came to town, there was one player opposing fans wanted to see.
They knew exactly where he would be.
Somewhere around the left faceoff circle, waiting for the puck.
One Last Run
The announcement means the NHL will now get something it hasn’t experienced with Ovechkin before: a season filled with lasts.
His final game in certain arenas.
His final meetings with longtime rivals.
His final home opener in Washington.
And, eventually, his final NHL game.
That makes the 2026-27 season something larger than another year on the schedule. Cities around the league will have opportunities to recognize a player who has spent more than 20 years frustrating their teams while simultaneously becoming one of the sport’s biggest attractions.
There is still hockey to play, too.
Ovechkin made that clear while addressing his teammates, telling the Capitals to make the playoffs, have fun and enjoy the moment because of how quickly time passes. (NHL)
His final season isn’t intended to simply become an 82-game retirement ceremony. Washington still has postseason ambitions, and there would be few endings more fitting than one final playoff run for the captain who delivered the franchise its first Stanley Cup.
Whatever happens from here will simply become the final pages of a story whose legacy has already been secured.
Ovechkin arrived in Washington as a 20-year-old Russian phenom with an unmistakable personality, a devastating shot and expectations that would have overwhelmed most players.
He somehow exceeded them.
He became a Stanley Cup champion. An MVP. A nine-time goal-scoring champion. The face of a franchise.
And eventually, the greatest goal scorer in NHL history.
There will be plenty of time to debate exactly where Alex Ovechkin belongs among hockey’s all-time greats. His combination of longevity, physicality, consistency and pure scoring ability makes his career difficult to compare with almost anyone who came before him.
But one part of his legacy no longer requires a debate.
Nobody has scored more.
Now hockey gets one final season with No. 8 — one last collection of one-timers from the left circle, celebrations against the glass and opportunities to watch Ovechkin add to a goal total that once seemed impossible.
After 22 seasons, the finish line is finally in sight.
And one of the greatest careers hockey has ever witnessed is beginning its final lap.
Granlund’s Overtime Winner Keeps Ducks Perfect to Start the Season
The Anaheim Ducks spent years waiting for their young core to turn potential into results.
Two games into the new season, those results are beginning to show.
Mikael Granlund scored with 46 seconds remaining in overtime Sunday night, lifting Anaheim to a 3-2 victory over the Florida Panthers and giving the Ducks a 2-0 start to the season. (NHL.com)
Granlund’s winner came on the power play after Florida’s Gustav Forsling was called for tripping Beckett Sennecke. With time running down on the advantage, Leo Carlsson found Granlund near the front of the net, where the veteran redirected the puck past Jacob Markstrom to finish the night at Honda Center. (NHL.com)
It was Granlund’s first goal of the season, but Anaheim’s young stars did much of the work getting the Ducks there.
Cutter Gauthier scored twice on the power play and added an assist, while Carlsson finished with three assists. Lukas Dostal stopped 29 shots in net as Anaheim won its 11th consecutive home opener, extending a franchise record and matching the longest such streak in NHL history. (NHL.com)
Gauthier opened the scoring at 16:18 of the first period before Carter Verhaeghe answered less than a minute later for Florida.
Anaheim regained the lead almost immediately after the second period began. Gauthier finished a quick passing sequence just 47 seconds into the period for his second power-play goal of the night, putting the Ducks ahead 2-1.
That advantage held for nearly 38 minutes.
Then Brad Marchand, making his season debut for Florida, spoiled what appeared to be an Anaheim regulation victory. With Markstrom pulled for the extra attacker, Marchand buried a rebound with 1:50 remaining to tie the game and force overtime. (NHL)
The Ducks could have folded after surrendering the late equalizer.
Instead, they responded.
Granlund’s goal sent Anaheim off the ice with two more points and continued an impressive opening stretch against two teams accustomed to playing meaningful hockey deep into the spring.
A Different Feeling in Anaheim
Starting 2-0 hardly defines an 82-game season, but there is reason for optimism surrounding these Ducks beyond their record.
Anaheim opened the season Friday by building a four-goal lead against the Vegas Golden Knights before holding on for a 4-3 victory. Carlsson had a goal and an assist, Sennecke opened the scoring and Dostal made 27 saves. (NHL)
Two nights later, the Ducks followed it by beating Florida.
That gives Anaheim victories over Vegas and Florida in its first two games, an encouraging early test for a team trying to establish itself as more than an up-and-coming group.
There is also continuity from what Anaheim accomplished last season. The Ducks went 43-33-6 with 92 points, scored their most goals in more than a decade and ended an eight-year playoff drought before advancing to the second round. (NHL)
Now, the next stage of that progression may be beginning.
Carlsson has been right in the middle of it. The 21-year-old has five points through two games, becoming just the third player in Ducks history to record five points over the first two games of a season. (NHL.com)
Gauthier’s performance Sunday offered another reminder of how dangerous Anaheim’s young forward group can become. Coming off a 41-goal breakout season, he produced two goals and three points against Florida and already appears capable of building on that production. (CBS Sports)
Sennecke has also made an early impact, scoring against Vegas and helping create one of Gauthier’s power-play goals against Florida.
Perhaps most encouraging has been Anaheim’s special teams.
All three Ducks goals Sunday came on the power play as Anaheim finished 3-for-4 with the man advantage while killing all four Florida power plays. (Yahoo Sports)
There are still imperfections. Anaheim surrendered three unanswered goals after building a 4-0 advantage against Vegas, then allowed Florida to control stretches of Sunday’s game before Marchand eventually tied it late.
But young teams learn how to win by surviving games like these.
The Ducks have done it twice already.
Anaheim isn’t sneaking up on the league anymore. After returning to the postseason last year, expectations have changed, and the combination of Carlsson, Gauthier, Sennecke and Dostal gives the franchise a young foundation capable of pushing those expectations higher.
Two games won’t tell the story of Anaheim’s season.
But beating Vegas and Florida back-to-back is a strong way to start writing it.
Brewers Walk Off Padres, Braves Answer Dodgers in Dramatic NLDS Sunday
The National League owned the postseason stage Sunday, and both Division Series delivered games that remained undecided deep into the afternoon and evening.
Milwaukee rallied in the bottom of the ninth to beat San Diego, 4-3, taking a commanding 2-0 series lead, while Atlanta responded to its Game 1 loss with a 3-2 victory over Los Angeles to even its series at one game apiece. (Baseball Reference)
Chourio Delivers as Brewers Walk Off Padres
The Milwaukee Brewers are one win away from the National League Championship Series, and once again, Jackson Chourio found himself at the center of the moment.
Milwaukee entered the bottom of the ninth trailing San Diego 3-2 and facing Padres closer Mason Miller, one of baseball’s most overpowering late-inning arms.
The Brewers refused to go quietly.
Christian Yelich and Sal Frelick worked consecutive one-out walks before Miller recovered to record the second out. Pinch-hitter Gary Sánchez then drew another walk, loading the bases and bringing Chourio to the plate with Milwaukee’s season-long ability to grind through at-bats suddenly on full display.
Chourio finished the job.
The 22-year-old jumped on a 101.3 mph fastball from Miller and drove it back through the middle for a two-run single, scoring Yelich and Frelick and sending American Family Field into celebration with a 4-3 walk-off victory. (MLB.com)
It was another postseason moment in what is quickly becoming an impressive October résumé for Chourio. He now owns eight game-tying or go-ahead postseason RBIs, the most in Brewers history, while his 15 career postseason RBIs already rank second in franchise history behind Ryan Braun. (MLB.com)
For San Diego, the loss was especially painful because of how close the Padres came to evening the series.
The Padres scored first and carried leads of 2-0 and 3-1 before Milwaukee slowly worked its way back into the game. Both teams struggled defensively — Milwaukee committed three errors and San Diego committed two — but the Brewers’ pitching staff repeatedly limited the damage. (Baseball Reference)
Milwaukee cut the deficit to one in the seventh before completing the comeback against Miller in the ninth. Miller had converted 38 of 41 save opportunities during the regular season, but three ninth-inning walks opened the door for Chourio. His 40 pitches marked his highest total in an appearance since joining San Diego. (MLB.com)
The result sends Milwaukee to San Diego with a 2-0 NLDS lead and three opportunities to close out the series.
For the Padres, there is no longer any room for error.
Harris Leads Braves Past Dodgers to Even Series
Several hours later in Los Angeles, Atlanta faced a much different situation.
After dropping Game 1, 5-3, the Braves entered Sunday needing a victory to avoid heading home in a 2-0 hole against a Dodgers team that won 100 games during the regular season.
Instead, Atlanta turned Game 2 into a pitching battle — and walked away with exactly what it needed.
The Braves defeated the Dodgers 3-2, evening the NLDS at 1-1 before the series shifts to Atlanta. (Baseball Reference)
Atlanta struck first in the opening inning before Freddie Freeman tied the game for Los Angeles with a home run.
From there, Michael Harris II took over.
Harris tripled in the fifth inning and came around to score on a wild pitch, restoring Atlanta’s lead. Two innings later, he delivered again, driving home Matt Olson with an RBI double to make it 3-1.
Harris finished with three hits — a single, double and triple — and supplied two of the most important offensive moments of Atlanta’s night. (MLB.com)
The Braves’ pitching strategy proved just as important.
Rather than bringing Chris Sale back on short rest, manager Walt Weiss opted to save him for Game 3 and piece together Sunday’s game with his pitching staff.
It worked.
Ray Kerr opened the game with 2 2/3 scoreless innings and four strikeouts, only three days after throwing 47 pitches in Atlanta’s Wild Card Series clincher against Philadelphia. Rookie Didier Fuentes followed with 3 2/3 innings as Atlanta used six pitchers to navigate one of baseball’s deepest lineups. (MLB.com)
Los Angeles made one final push in the ninth.
Max Muncy’s solo home run cut Atlanta’s advantage to 3-2, forcing Weiss to call upon Raisel Iglesias for the final out. Iglesias shut the door, preserving a victory that completely changed the complexion of the series. (MLB.com)
Instead of returning home needing three consecutive victories, Atlanta will head back to Truist Park tied 1-1 — and with Sale lined up to start Game 3.
Two Series, Two Very Different Situations
Sunday’s two games left the National League Division Series in dramatically different positions.
Milwaukee has complete control of its matchup after defending home field twice and needs only one more victory to eliminate San Diego. The Padres now return to Petco Park knowing their season could end with their next loss.
Atlanta, meanwhile, accomplished exactly what a road team hopes to do in the opening two games of a postseason series: earn a split.
The Dodgers looked capable of taking control after winning Game 1, but Atlanta’s pitching staff and Harris ensured this series will return east tied.
October rarely provides much separation between teams.
On Sunday, one swing from Chourio pushed Milwaukee to the brink of the NLCS, while a three-hit night from Harris gave Atlanta new life.
Two games. Two one-run finishes.
And two National League playoff series that suddenly look very different heading into Game 3.
NFL Week 4 Takes a Heavy Toll as Stars Go Down Across the League
Week 4 delivered another full Sunday of NFL football, but by the end of the afternoon, some of the biggest conversations around the league had little to do with the final scores.
Lamar Jackson, Saquon Barkley and Ja’Marr Chase were among a long list of notable players forced from games with injuries, leaving several contenders waiting for medical evaluations that could carry implications well beyond one weekend.
In Baltimore, perhaps the most significant scare came when Lamar Jackson suffered a left ankle injury during the Ravens’ 24-18 victory over Tennessee. Jackson appeared to turn the ankle while trying to escape a sack and did not return for the second half.
The early outlook provided some relief for Baltimore. Jackson is believed to be day-to-day after avoiding what appears to be a major injury, though he left the stadium wearing a protective boot. Before exiting, the two-time MVP had completed 15 of 20 passes for 222 yards and two touchdowns. (Reuters)
Jackson was hardly Baltimore’s only casualty. Cornerback Marlon Humphrey left with a calf injury, guard Andrew Vorhees suffered a foot injury and tight end Durham Smythe exited with an Achilles injury. (Reuters)
The injuries were just as concerning in Philadelphia.
Saquon Barkley lasted only two carries in the Eagles’ 24-20 loss to the Los Angeles Rams before a hamstring injury ended his afternoon. Barkley began limping after a six-yard run in the opening quarter before heading to the medical tent.
Philadelphia did not immediately provide a timetable for Barkley, although he was reportedly walking normally while leaving the stadium. His status becomes particularly important for an Eagles offense that entered Sunday already without DeVonta Smith and Dallas Goedert. (Reuters)
Cincinnati suffered its own damaging pair of injuries.
Ja’Marr Chase entered concussion protocol after his head struck the turf during the Bengals’ 22-17 loss to Jacksonville. Chase finished with three catches for 27 yards before being ruled out.
Then came another problem.
Tee Higgins, who had put together a huge afternoon with 11 receptions for 157 yards, suffered an adductor injury late in the game. Higgins briefly attempted to return before being unable to continue. Cincinnati now faces the possibility of entering its next game without one or both of its top receivers. (Reuters)
Kansas City wasn’t spared either.
Rashee Rice left the Chiefs’ 30-27 victory over Las Vegas with a hamstring injury, while Tyquan Thornton suffered the more serious injury of the two. Thornton injured his left ankle after hauling in a 55-yard reception and was unable to stand afterward.
Thornton was later reported to have suffered a dislocated ankle and is expected to be out indefinitely. (Reuters)
The situation was particularly rough in Washington, where the Commanders were already playing without starting quarterback Jayden Daniels.
Backup Marcus Mariota suffered a right knee injury during Washington’s 30-13 loss to Indianapolis in London, forcing seventh-round rookie Athan Kaliakmanis into his NFL debut. Washington has now been forced to use three quarterbacks through only four games. (The Washington Post)
Wide receiver and return specialist Jaylin Lane was also carted from the field with a significant-looking lower-leg injury, adding another concern to an already depleted Commanders roster. (Reuters)
Green Bay may have suffered one of Sunday’s most serious injuries.
Linebacker Edgerrin Cooper is believed to have suffered a torn Achilles during the Packers’ 17-14 victory over Tampa Bay. Cooper went down without contact and was carted from the field. Packers coach Matt LaFleur acknowledged afterward that the injury was likely season-ending. (National Football Post)
The damage stretched even further around the league.
Buffalo wide receiver DJ Moore aggravated a shoulder injury against New England, while defensive tackle Ed Oliver injured his knee. Denver lost both starting cornerbacks, Pat Surtain II and Riley Moss, during its loss to San Francisco. The Chargers watched four starters — Ladd McConkey, Rashawn Slater, Joe Alt and Donte Jackson — leave their loss to Seattle with injuries. (NFL)
Arizona offensive tackle Paris Johnson Jr. also suffered a biceps injury, while San Francisco fullback Kyle Juszczyk is believed to have suffered a knee sprain. (NFL)
Injuries are an unavoidable part of an NFL season, but Week 4 packed an unusually large number of consequential ones into a single Sunday.
Some teams appear to have avoided the worst-case scenario. Others may not be so fortunate.
With Jackson, Barkley, Chase, Higgins, Rice and several other starters now facing additional testing or recovery time, the fallout from Week 4 could extend far beyond Sunday’s final whistle. For teams with postseason expectations, the next round of injury reports may prove nearly as important as the standings themselves.
Minnesota Reclaims Little Brown Jug as Michigan Continues to Struggle
Minnesota delivered one of its biggest wins in the Little Brown Jug rivalry in decades Saturday, upsetting No. 24 Michigan 20-14 at Huntington Bank Stadium and beating the Wolverines at home for the first time since 1977.
Michigan entered halftime leading 14-7 despite an uneven offensive performance. Jordan Marshall scored on a five-yard run in the second quarter, while linebacker Nathaniel Staehling returned an interception 79 yards for a touchdown to give the Wolverines a seven-point advantage.
The second half belonged to Minnesota.
Luke Drzewiecki connected on field goals of 31 and 26 yards to pull the Golden Gophers within one before Drake Lindsey found Darius Taylor for a three-yard touchdown early in the fourth quarter, giving Minnesota a 20-14 lead. Taylor finished with two touchdowns, also scoring on a two-yard run during Minnesota’s opening possession.
Minnesota’s defense made sure the lead held. The Gophers limited Michigan to just 82 yards on 24 second-half plays, while Bryce Underwood finished 10-of-21 passing for 101 yards. Michigan was held to 180 total yards and committed three turnovers.
The Wolverines had one final opportunity to take the lead, but Underwood’s fourth-down pass from midfield fell incomplete with 37 seconds remaining, allowing Minnesota to run out the clock.
The victory moved Minnesota to 4-1 overall and 2-0 in Big Ten play and gave the program its first win over Michigan since 2014. It was an even longer wait in Minneapolis, where the Gophers had not beaten the Wolverines since a 16-0 victory in 1977. Fans stormed the field following the win as Minnesota reclaimed the Little Brown Jug.
For Michigan, the loss continued a difficult start to conference play. The Wolverines fell to 3-2 after consecutive losses to Iowa and Minnesota, with an offense that has now failed to reach 20 points in four of its first five games.
Michigan will have a bye before returning home to face Penn State on Oct. 17, while Minnesota travels to Purdue on Oct. 10.
Aaron Donald Ruled Out as Injuries Continue to Derail Rams’ Season
The Los Angeles Rams built their defense around the idea of Aaron Donald and Myles Garrett terrorizing opposing quarterbacks together. Four weeks into the season, keeping both superstars on the field has proven to be the bigger challenge.
Donald has officially been ruled out for Sunday’s matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles as he continues to deal with a back injury. The three-time Defensive Player of the Year missed practice throughout the week after experiencing back soreness following Los Angeles’ 30-26 loss to Denver.
His absence comes at an especially difficult time for a Rams team already without Garrett, leaving Los Angeles without the two players expected to anchor one of the NFL’s most imposing defensive fronts.
Garrett remains on injured reserve after undergoing surgery on the knee that bothered him throughout training camp and into the season opener. The Rams initially hoped the injury could be managed, but surgery ultimately became necessary. He is expected to miss approximately six weeks, with a possible return in November if his recovery remains on schedule. (Reuters)
It has created a frustrating reality for Los Angeles.
The Rams made a blockbuster move to acquire Garrett from Cleveland during the offseason, pairing the reigning Defensive Player of the Year with Donald after the future Hall of Famer ended his two-year retirement. On paper, it gave Los Angeles a defensive combination capable of changing games by itself.
Instead, the Rams are 1-2 and still waiting to see what that defense can become at full strength.
Los Angeles has already endured a 27-7 season-opening loss to San Francisco and then watched a 16-0 halftime lead disappear in last week’s 30-26 loss to Denver. (FOX Sports) Now the Rams head to Philadelphia without either Donald or Garrett against an Eagles team capable of putting enormous pressure on a depleted defensive front.
There are still 14 games remaining, and Garrett’s eventual return could dramatically change the outlook of the defense. Donald’s back injury also does not necessarily suggest a long-term absence.
But the margin for error is getting smaller.
The Rams entered 2026 with legitimate championship expectations and made aggressive moves to build a roster capable of reaching February. Instead, one month into the season, injuries have kept some of their biggest additions and most important players off the field.
Sunday in Philadelphia now becomes another test of how long Los Angeles can weather those absences before a slow start turns into something much more difficult to overcome.
McDavid Erupts for Five Points as Oilers Outlast Canucks in 9-7 Thriller
Connor McDavid and the Edmonton Oilers found themselves in a game Thursday night that looked over early — until suddenly, it wasn’t.
McDavid recorded a goal and four assists for his 15th career five-point game as Edmonton survived a furious Vancouver comeback to defeat the Canucks 9-7 at Rogers Arena. NHL.com
The victory gave Edmonton its first win of the season and provided some revenge after Vancouver handed the Oilers a 6-5 overtime loss in their season opener just two nights earlier. ESPN
Edmonton wasted little time taking control of the rematch.
Vasily Podkolzin opened the scoring on the power play before Owen Michaels scored the first goal of his NHL career to make it 2-0. Just 16 seconds later, Evan Bouchard added another, and Ryan Shea’s late first-period goal sent Edmonton into the intermission with a commanding 4-0 advantage. NHL.com
The pressure didn’t stop there.
Leon Draisaitl scored just 27 seconds into the second period, and after Vancouver finally answered, Edmonton continued piling on. Trent Frederic made it 6-1 before McDavid took advantage of a Canucks turnover and scored shorthanded for his first goal of the season.
Only 34 seconds later, Kasperi Kapanen scored another shorthanded goal to give Edmonton what appeared to be an insurmountable 8-2 lead. NHL.com
Then the game completely changed.
Vancouver scored with just 0.1 seconds remaining in the second period and carried that momentum into the third. Marco Rossi scored twice in less than three minutes before Elias Pettersson’s power-play goal suddenly cut Edmonton’s six-goal advantage to 8-6.
A game that had looked like an Oilers blowout had become a two-goal contest with more than 12 minutes remaining.
Draisaitl finally stopped the bleeding, finishing a feed from McDavid on the power play for his second goal of the night and restoring Edmonton’s three-goal advantage. Jamie Oleksiak added another for Vancouver late, but the Canucks’ comeback ultimately ran out of time. NHL.com
Lost somewhat in the chaos was another historic performance from Bouchard. The 26-year-old defenseman finished with a goal and two assists, giving him eight points through Edmonton’s first two games. That made Bouchard the first defenseman in NHL history to record eight points through the opening two games of a season. NHL.com
Bouchard’s start has been remarkable. After recording a hat trick and five points in Edmonton’s opening-night loss, he followed it with another three-point performance Thursday. NHL.com
But McDavid remained at the center of Edmonton’s offensive explosion.
His five-point performance was the 15th of his NHL career, moving him past Jari Kurri for the second-most such games in Oilers history. Only Wayne Gretzky has recorded more in an Edmonton uniform. NHL.com
McDavid now has five assists through the first two games of the season, joining Draisaitl and Gretzky as the only Oilers to accomplish that feat. NHL.com
The offensive numbers were spectacular, but Edmonton will have plenty to clean up. Allowing Vancouver to turn an 8-2 deficit into an 8-6 game in less than a period showed how quickly even a massive lead can disappear.
Still, after dropping a wild opener to the same Canucks team, Edmonton walked away with the result it needed.
And with McDavid already producing five-point nights and Bouchard rewriting the record book two games into the season, the Oilers’ star-powered offense looks every bit as dangerous as advertised.
Jalen Duren, Pistons Agree to Five-Year, $200 Million Deal
The Detroit Pistons have secured another major piece of their young core, agreeing to a five-year, $200 million fully guaranteed contract with All-Star center Jalen Duren. The agreement ends a months-long contract standoff that stretched into the opening days of training camp. (NBA.com)
Duren, 22, is coming off the best season of his young career. He averaged 19.5 points and 10.5 rebounds per game while shooting 65 percent from the field, earning his first All-Star selection and All-NBA Third Team honors as Detroit finished 60-22 and secured the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference. (WDIV)
The deal came just before Duren’s deadline to accept a one-year, $9.6 million qualifying offer, which would have allowed him to become an unrestricted free agent next summer. Instead, the two sides found common ground and ensured Duren will remain in Detroit for the foreseeable future. (WJXT)
For the Pistons, the move provides long-term stability around a core headlined by Duren, Cade Cunningham and Ausar Thompson. After emerging as one of the East’s top teams last season, Detroit will now enter 2026-27 with its All-Star center back in place and expectations continuing to rise.
