The start of the college football season always brings great hope across the country, as each tea...

<p>The start of the college football season always brings great hope across the country, as each team sets out on its quest, whether chasing a title, aiming for bowl eligibility, or just seeking bragging rights in a rivalry game.</p><p>However, with that hope also comes a high level of uncertainty, and this season has raised that to a level we haven't seen in recent years, with plenty of questions across the nation.</p><p>We identified five to think about heading into Week 1.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Should we be worried about 1st-year starting QBs?</h3><p>The early AP Top 25 taught us that sports writers across the country don't care about quarterback experience. There are six teams in the top 15 of the preseason rankings set to start a quarterback with less than 100 career collegiate pass attempts on their resume, with the heralded Arch Manning headlining the list.</p><p><strong>No. 1 Texas:</strong> Arch Manning<br><strong>No. 3 Ohio State:</strong> Julian Sayin<br><strong>No. 5 Georgia:</strong> Gunner Stockton<br><strong>No. 6 Notre Dame:</strong> CJ Carr<br><strong>No. 8 Alabama:</strong> Ty Simpson<br><strong>No. 14 Michigan: </strong>Bryce Underwood</p><p>Manning and Stockton likely belong in a different class than the rest. Both saw significant snaps last season, and Stockton notably took the field in the playoffs with Georgia. However, there could still be plenty of growing pains as both take the mantle as permanent QB1.</p><p>The rest of the list is littered with top recruits who now get the chance to cash in on that potential. Sayin is likely in the best situation given Ohio State's embarrassment of riches in the receiver room, but the initial test is fierce with Texas coming to Columbus in Week 1.</p><p>If these talented prospects hit their ceiling, any of these six teams could be a serious contender for the national title. If they go through understandable challenges in adjusting to a starting role, these programs could be in a fight for the playoffs.</p><h3>If not now, when for Franklin?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795344/cropped_GettyImages-2193202185.jpg?ts=1753302520" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795344/w220xh124_GettyImages-2193202185.jpg?ts=1753302520 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795344/w320xh180_GettyImages-2193202185.jpg?ts=1753302520 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795344/w640xh360_GettyImages-2193202185.jpg?ts=1753302520 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795344/w768xh432_GettyImages-2193202185.jpg?ts=1753302520 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795344/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2193202185.jpg?ts=1753302520 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Kevin C. Cox / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Somehow, Penn State won 13 contests, made a playoff run to the national semifinals ... and James Franklin still hasn't shattered the "can't win big games" narrative.</p><p>First, the good. Since Franklin's hire, the Nittany Lions have compiled 101 wins - the 10th most at the FBS level during that time. They are unquestionably one of the top teams in the Big Ten and have become something of an NFL factory. So what's the problem? Franklin's squads consistently fail to rise to the occasion and take down a top program when given the chance. Penn State is 1-15 against top-five teams under Franklin, with a slight improvement to 4-20 against the top 10.</p><p>Sure, Penn State made the national semis last year, but the path couldn't have broken down in a more ideal scenario. Despite losing the Big Ten title game to Oregon, it was the Ducks who had to face the eventual champion, Ohio State, in the playoff opener. The Nittany Lions' "reward" for losing was a first-round home playoff game against SMU and a neutral-site contest with Boise State in the quarterfinals. They got through both unfazed, but once again couldn't beat a top team, losing to Notre Dame in the semis.</p><p>Is this the year Franklin finally flips the script? It's likely the best chance of his career. Ohio State and Oregon both had major roster turnover after last season and are starting new quarterbacks. Meanwhile, Penn State returns a number of top players, led by quarterback Drew Allar and star rushers Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen. Oh, and the schedule? With a weak non-conference slate, two games will essentially decide the Nittany Lions' fate: at home versus Oregon and on the road at Ohio State.</p><p>If that doesn't all add up to a title-game shot for Franklin, when will he ever get there?</p><h3>What's going on at Auburn?</h3><p>If we had to guess, our bet would be that Hugh Freeze's favorite number is three. That would make Auburn's strategy for its opener against Baylor a lot easier to digest. If you haven't been paying attention, the Tigers plan to use three different play-callers<em><strong> AND</strong></em> three different quarterbacks in the road game in Waco. Huh?</p><p>Five-star freshman Deuce Knight and ex-Stanford starter Ashton Daniels are talented players, but Auburn splashed the cash in the transfer portal to bring in former five-star recruit Jackson Arnold from Oklahoma. The fact that Arnold hasn't separated himself from the other two passers should set off the alarm bells on the plains.</p><p>However, if you wanted to take the glass-half-full approach, the quarterback play could hardly be worse than what the Tigers suffered through last year. Also, their talented roster should thrive with even average play at the position from one of the three names.</p><p>With Auburn jumping straight into the fire on the road against Baylor, it won't take long to see if Freeze's strategy pays off or if an underachieving outfit again rankles the fan base. If it's the latter, Freeze might have plenty of time to work on his golf game come football season next year.</p><h3>Will there be more chaos in the Big 12?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757608/cropped_GettyImages-2184392524.jpg?ts=1732733720" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757608/w220xh124_GettyImages-2184392524.jpg?ts=1732733720 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757608/w320xh180_GettyImages-2184392524.jpg?ts=1732733720 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757608/w640xh360_GettyImages-2184392524.jpg?ts=1732733720 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757608/w768xh432_GettyImages-2184392524.jpg?ts=1732733720 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757608/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2184392524.jpg?ts=1732733720 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Bruce Yeung / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Some people resort to extreme activities, such as skydiving or mountain climbing, to satisfy their need for a rush of adrenaline. Our suggestion? Save the money and watch Big 12 football, the most chaotic conference in America. Over 40% of conference games ended within one score in 2024, and the school picked to finish dead last in the preseason, Arizona State, won the whole damn thing and made the playoffs. The top five teams in the same preseason poll went 26-35 overall and 13-32 in conference play.</p><p>The Big 12 is off to another roaring start in 2025, with Iowa State claiming the first win of the college football season over the weekend by a narrow three points over Kansas State in Ireland.</p><p>What's the reason for the randomness in the conference? The departure of Oklahoma and Texas leveled the playing field to a certain extent, with most programs operating in the same space in terms of budget and recruiting talent. Texas Tech will look to change that this year after spending a boatload on transfers in the offseason.</p><p>Although Arizona State <strong><em>should </em></strong>still be the class of the conference with quarterback Sam Leavitt and a host of key players returning, it seems silly to bank on anything normal happening in the Big 12. Look for the Red Raiders, Baylor, Iowa State, TCU, and Kansas State to challenge, as well as a Utah team that finally has a quarterback in transfer Devon Dampier.</p><p>Oh, and Scott Frost is back at UCF, Rich Rod returns to West Virginia, Jalon Daniels is still quarterbacking Kansas in what feels like his 10th season, Coach Prime begins life without Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter at Colorado, and Mike Gundy might actually be on the hot seat at Oklahoma State.</p><p>Are you not entertained?</p><h3>Will Clemson keep Belichick from being ACC's biggest story?</h3><p>Look, it's going to take something special - or particularly wild - to keep 73-year-old Bill Belichick from being the biggest story in the ACC this season. Arguably the greatest NFL coach of all time, Belichick has dipped into the college ranks with North Carolina after being shunned by the league he once dominated for an extended period. Every game for his Tar Heels will be must-watch TV, scrutinized on a play-by-play basis. So what could match the scene in Chapel Hill to grab some attention for the ACC? A return to the national title picture for Clemson.</p><p>It doesn't seem far off that the Tigers and Dabo Swinney were the kings of the sport, but Trevor Lawrence is long gone, and he apparently took Clemson's relevance in the title race with him. However, Cade Klubnik's late-season brilliance at quarterback has reignited the Tigers' hopes for a national championship.</p><p>Clemson returns a ton of top talent on both sides of the ball, and Klubnik should thrive again in Garrett Riley's offensive system. The Tigers are clearly the class of the ACC. But what does that really mean in today's college football landscape dominated by the SEC and Big Ten? Clemson essentially played five strong teams last season, beating SMU by three points and losing to Georgia, Louisville, South Carolina, and Texas by a combined score of 122-62.</p><p>Are the Tigers for real this year, or did lesser opponents prop them up in 2024? We won't have to wait long to find out with a Week 1 matchup against No. 9 LSU on the slate.</p>

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5 burning questions entering 2025 CFB season

The always buzzing transfer portal and the constant talk about conference realignment and playoff...

<p>The always buzzing transfer portal and the constant talk about conference realignment and playoff expansion have made following college football a year-round activity. However, there's a different vibe come the last week of August with a fresh season of games ahead and so much new chaos about to unfold.</p><p>This campaign promises to be electric from the jump with a blockbuster matchup between Texas and Ohio State headlining Week 1. Here's all you need to know to get set for the 2025 season.</p><h2>Featured analysis ✍️</h2><p><strong>25 most important names for 2025 season</strong></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762898/cropped_GettyImages-2190353550.jpg?ts=1735651952" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762898/w220xh124_GettyImages-2190353550.jpg?ts=1735651952 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762898/w320xh180_GettyImages-2190353550.jpg?ts=1735651952 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762898/w640xh360_GettyImages-2190353550.jpg?ts=1735651952 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762898/w768xh432_GettyImages-2190353550.jpg?ts=1735651952 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762898/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2190353550.jpg?ts=1735651952 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>With the new year comes a cast of new characters. While there are a number of key players returning - notably Arch Manning and Jeremiah Smith - the biggest addition to the sport is Bill Belichick at North Carolina. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3324028" href="https://thescore.com/news/3324028">Read more ...</a></p><p><strong>Burning questions to be answered this season</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764223/cropped_GettyImages-2190967029.jpg?ts=1736317142" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764223/w220xh124_GettyImages-2190967029.jpg?ts=1736317142 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764223/w320xh180_GettyImages-2190967029.jpg?ts=1736317142 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764223/w640xh360_GettyImages-2190967029.jpg?ts=1736317142 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764223/w768xh432_GettyImages-2190967029.jpg?ts=1736317142 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764223/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2190967029.jpg?ts=1736317142 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Scott Taetsch / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Another year, another chance for James Franklin to wreck the narrative that he can't win the big games with Penn State. Franklin enters the season 4-20 against top 10 opponents during his tenure in State College. This is perhaps Franklin's best chance to flip the script, with many pundits picking the veteran Nittany Lions to win the Big Ten. Is this the year Penn State finally gets it done, or will it be more disappointment? While Franklin has title aspirations, Hugh Freeze is looking to do anything to win some games at Auburn, including running an offensive system with three different play-callers. Will it work? <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3328450" href="https://thescore.com/news/3328450">Read more ...</a></p><p><strong>How can Arch Manning possibly live up to the hype?</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746292/cropped_GettyImages-2173626580.jpg?ts=1726982983" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746292/w220xh124_GettyImages-2173626580.jpg?ts=1726982983 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746292/w320xh180_GettyImages-2173626580.jpg?ts=1726982983 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746292/w640xh360_GettyImages-2173626580.jpg?ts=1726982983 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746292/w768xh432_GettyImages-2173626580.jpg?ts=1726982983 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746292/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2173626580.jpg?ts=1726982983 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Tim Warner / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The latest product from the Manning quarterback factory finally gets the starting job at Texas after two years with the program. He's wowed in limited action over that span and looks ready to take over the sport. And that's essentially what he'll have to do to meet the sky-high expectations for Eli and Peyton's nephew. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3324456" href="https://thescore.com/news/3324456">Read more ...</a></p><p><strong>CFB hot seats: Coaches facing the most pressure in 2025</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746736/cropped_GettyImages-1753455502.jpg?ts=1727207235" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746736/w220xh124_GettyImages-1753455502.jpg?ts=1727207235 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746736/w320xh180_GettyImages-1753455502.jpg?ts=1727207235 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746736/w640xh360_GettyImages-1753455502.jpg?ts=1727207235 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746736/w768xh432_GettyImages-1753455502.jpg?ts=1727207235 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746736/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1753455502.jpg?ts=1727207235 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The volume of head coaching moves at the Power 4 level dipped considerably this past offseason, but that could change in 2025 with a number of decorated names in need of strong showings. USC didn't expect to be battling for bowl eligibility with Lincoln Riley at the helm, and his replacement at Oklahoma, Brent Venables, has fallen short of the standard in Norman. Add the always scorching seat at Auburn and this season could leave a number of major jobs open. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3324217" href="https://thescore.com/news/3324217">Read more ...</a></p><h2>Power 4 previews 🍿</h2><p><strong>SEC tries to regain title form following 2-year drought</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755811/cropped_GettyImages-2185171824.jpg?ts=1731819328" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755811/w220xh124_GettyImages-2185171824.jpg?ts=1731819328 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755811/w320xh180_GettyImages-2185171824.jpg?ts=1731819328 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755811/w640xh360_GettyImages-2185171824.jpg?ts=1731819328 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755811/w768xh432_GettyImages-2185171824.jpg?ts=1731819328 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755811/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2185171824.jpg?ts=1731819328 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Todd Kirkland / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The SEC was long the undisputed king of college football, but in the last two years, the Big Ten rose to the top with back-to-back national champions. A host of top programs are ready to bring the title back to the South, with No. 1 Texas leading a six-pack of SEC teams in the preseason AP Top 25. Which one has the best chance to end the Big Ten's reign? <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3325088" href="https://thescore.com/news/3325088">Read more ...</a></p><p><strong>Experience makes Clemson the ACC favorite. Can anyone challenge?</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749615/cropped_GettyImages-2178131992.jpg?ts=1728764729" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749615/w220xh124_GettyImages-2178131992.jpg?ts=1728764729 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749615/w320xh180_GettyImages-2178131992.jpg?ts=1728764729 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749615/w640xh360_GettyImages-2178131992.jpg?ts=1728764729 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749615/w768xh432_GettyImages-2178131992.jpg?ts=1728764729 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749615/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2178131992.jpg?ts=1728764729 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Grant Halverson / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Clemson got real used to competing for national titles under Dabo Swinney, so despite the Tigers' solid results of late, their absence from the big stage has been notable. That might change in 2025 with Cade Klubnik back to build on his strong finish to last season and give Swinney the kind of elite quarterback play he enjoyed with Deshaun Watson and Trevor Lawrence. The ACC seems like Clemson's to lose, but a host of possible spoilers could rise up. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3324449" href="https://thescore.com/news/3324449">Read more ...</a></p><p><strong>Penn State looks to hold off Ohio State, Oregon for elusive Big Ten title</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743307/cropped_GettyImages-2168832717.jpg?ts=1725144755" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743307/w220xh124_GettyImages-2168832717.jpg?ts=1725144755 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743307/w320xh180_GettyImages-2168832717.jpg?ts=1725144755 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743307/w640xh360_GettyImages-2168832717.jpg?ts=1725144755 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743307/w768xh432_GettyImages-2168832717.jpg?ts=1725144755 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743307/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2168832717.jpg?ts=1725144755 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>If there was ever a season for James Franklin to dispel the narrative that he can't win the big game, this is it. Penn State returns a significant number of key performers from last year's semifinal squad, led by star quarterback Drew Allar and the running back duo of Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen. Add in the fact that Ohio State, Oregon, and Michigan are all breaking in new quarterbacks and this feels like it's finally the Nittany Lions' year. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3324007" href="https://thescore.com/news/3324007">Read more ...</a></p><p><strong>Arizona State eyes 2nd Big 12 title to follow shocking CFP run</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758170/cropped_GettyImages-2187610203.jpg?ts=1733011271" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758170/w220xh124_GettyImages-2187610203.jpg?ts=1733011271 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758170/w320xh180_GettyImages-2187610203.jpg?ts=1733011271 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758170/w640xh360_GettyImages-2187610203.jpg?ts=1733011271 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758170/w768xh432_GettyImages-2187610203.jpg?ts=1733011271 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758170/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2187610203.jpg?ts=1733011271 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Kelsey Grant / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Even Kenny Dillingham might admit he was surprised by Arizona State's debut season in the Big 12. Preseason polls picked the Sun Devils to finish 16th of 16 teams in the revamped conference, yet Dillingham's bunch shocked the world, won the league, and made the playoff. Can Sam Leavitt and the defending champions return to the CFP, or will the sport's most chaotic conference produce another shocking winner? <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3325291" href="https://thescore.com/news/3325291">Read more ...</a></p><h2>Betting tips 💵</h2><p><strong>CFB national title betting: Presenting a case for the top 6 contenders</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798837/cropped_Arch__1_.jpg?ts=1756140022" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798837/w220xh124_Arch__1_.jpg?ts=1756140022 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798837/w320xh180_Arch__1_.jpg?ts=1756140022 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798837/w640xh360_Arch__1_.jpg?ts=1756140022 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798837/w768xh432_Arch__1_.jpg?ts=1756140022 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798837/w1080xh607_Arch__1_.jpg?ts=1756140022 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Manning's Longhorns are co-favorites with the Buckeyes to win the National Championship, but four other teams trail closely behind. We laid out our case for and against the top six contenders, and discussed a few programs that can be considered national title sleepers. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3330454" href="https://thescore.com/news/3330454">Read more ...</a></p><p><strong>Heisman Trophy odds: Should Nussmeier be in same tier as Manning, Klubnik?</strong><strong> </strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754492/cropped_GettyImages-2183916372.jpg?ts=1731199009" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754492/w220xh124_GettyImages-2183916372.jpg?ts=1731199009 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754492/w320xh180_GettyImages-2183916372.jpg?ts=1731199009 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754492/w640xh360_GettyImages-2183916372.jpg?ts=1731199009 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754492/w768xh432_GettyImages-2183916372.jpg?ts=1731199009 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754492/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2183916372.jpg?ts=1731199009 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Aric Becker/ISI Photos / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The name Manning is synonymous with quarterback brilliance, so it's no surprise that Arch Manning is one of the Heisman favorites despite the fact he's just beginning his first season as starter at Texas. However, he's got company at the top of the oddsboard with the experienced Cade Klubnik at Clemson. Those two lead a host of quarterbacks - including LSU's Garrett Nussmeier - that dominate the Heisman oddsboard heading into the preseason, with one freakishly talented receiver from Ohio State the only non-QB in the top 12. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3324014" href="https://thescore.com/news/3324014">Read more ...</a></p><p><strong>CFB betting: Who will make, miss College Football Playoff?</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761617/cropped_GettyImages-2190868654.jpg?ts=1734737729" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761617/w220xh124_GettyImages-2190868654.jpg?ts=1734737729 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761617/w320xh180_GettyImages-2190868654.jpg?ts=1734737729 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761617/w640xh360_GettyImages-2190868654.jpg?ts=1734737729 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761617/w768xh432_GettyImages-2190868654.jpg?ts=1734737729 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761617/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2190868654.jpg?ts=1734737729 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Julio Aguilar / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The playoff field may have expanded to 12, but as we learned last year, that won't end the debates about who deserves to get in and who is left on the outside. Some of last season's top programs experienced major roster turnover, so we could see a shakeup in playoff participants. Can DJ Lagway stay healthy and get Florida to the playoff after years of middling SEC performance? Is this the year Brian Kelly finally gets LSU over the hump? See who we like to make the CFP in 2025 and who we think might be a surprise omission. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3327886" href="https://thescore.com/news/3327886">Read more ... </a></p><p><strong>CFB betting: Picking winners for each of the 4 major conferences</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779383/cropped_GettyImages-2191971957.jpg?ts=1744070088" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779383/w220xh124_GettyImages-2191971957.jpg?ts=1744070088 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779383/w320xh180_GettyImages-2191971957.jpg?ts=1744070088 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779383/w640xh360_GettyImages-2191971957.jpg?ts=1744070088 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779383/w768xh432_GettyImages-2191971957.jpg?ts=1744070088 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779383/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2191971957.jpg?ts=1744070088 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Douglas P. DeFelice / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>With 12 teams now making the playoff, the need to win your conference is slightly less urgent. However, the guaranteed bye for the four highest-rated conference champions is still enough of a carrot to entice teams to go all-out. Did Kalen DeBoer learn enough in his first season with Alabama to get the Crimson Tide back on top in the SEC and surprise Texas and Georgia? Is this finally Penn State's year to take down the likes of Ohio State and Oregon and raise a Big Ten banner? Who is worth a dart throw in the chaotic Big 12? <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3327194" href="https://thescore.com/news/3327194">Read more ... </a></p><p><strong>Odds to win national title (via theScore Bet and ESPN BET)</strong></p><ul>
<li>Ohio State +550</li>
<li>Texas +550</li>
<li>Penn State +650</li>
<li>Georgia +800</li>
<li>Alabama +900</li>
<li>Clemson +900</li>
<li>Notre Dame +1100</li>
<li>LSU +1500</li>
<li>Oregon +1500</li>
<li>Michigan +3500</li>
<li>Florida +4000</li>
<li>Miami +4000</li>
</ul>

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CFB cheat sheet: All you need for kickoff to 2025 season

After another offseason filled with chatter around college football playoff expansion, conference...

<p>After another offseason filled with chatter around college football playoff expansion, conference realignment, and TV contracts, it's finally time to get back to the actual games.</p><p>With a number of top programs trotting out first-time starters at quarterback, the 2025 campaign promises to be volatile as a whole host of squads make a run toward the 12-team playoff.</p><p>To get you primed for kickoff, here are 25 of the most important names to know for this season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Arch Manning</h3><p>You can't get five seconds into a college football conversation without Manning's name entering the picture. The most talked about college player since Johnny Manziel finally gets his full shot as QB1 for Texas with Quinn Ewers now gone. He flashed plenty of moxie and talent in his limited action last year, throwing nine touchdowns against two interceptions. He was also a major threat on the ground, running for four touchdowns and shocking everyone that a quarterback named Manning could move. Steve Sarkisian's brilliant offensive game-planning can produce a successful signal-caller from just about anybody with a functioning arm. Add someone with Manning's talent to that, and Texas might need to add space for a Heisman in the trophy case.</p><h3>Caleb Downs</h3><p>Two key returning players will ensure Ohio State is just fine in 2025 despite a mass exodus following its national championship run. The first is Downs, an all-world defender who can also ruin games with his return abilities (just <a href="https://youtu.be/1LDuEjHdEtA?si=OLP4vjMaBjHqlBP3">ask Indiana</a>). Opposing teams have to account for Downs like NFL offenses did for Ed Reed, and it would be stunning if he weren't a top-10 pick in next year's draft.</p><h3>Jeremiah Smith</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766047/cropped_GettyImages-2192436626.jpg?ts=1737225328" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766047/w220xh124_GettyImages-2192436626.jpg?ts=1737225328 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766047/w320xh180_GettyImages-2192436626.jpg?ts=1737225328 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766047/w640xh360_GettyImages-2192436626.jpg?ts=1737225328 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766047/w768xh432_GettyImages-2192436626.jpg?ts=1737225328 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766047/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2192436626.jpg?ts=1737225328 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The second Ohio State star needs no introduction after torching anybody in his way during an outrageous freshman season with the Buckeyes. It seems criminal that Smith has to play not one, but two more years of college football when he's already arguably the most dominant player in the sport. However, Ohio State fans won't mind, as Smith gets two more campaigns to dominate in Columbus before becoming the next - and probably best - Buckeyes wide receiver to be a first-round pick.</p><h3>Kalen DeBoer</h3><p>The last time we saw DeBoer's Alabama on the field, the Crimson Tide were getting worked by a Michigan team filled with mostly backups. The honeymoon in Tuscaloosa is over, and the pressure is firmly on DeBoer to get the program back to the Saban standard. To help with that, DeBoer reunited with Ryan Grubb, his former offensive coordinator at Washington, who spent last year in the NFL. Grubb will look to turn around an Alabama attack that sputtered down the stretch, averaging 14 points per game over the final three contests. With road trips to Florida State and Georgia before the end of September, you can bet the radio call-in shows will be buzzing early one way or another in Tuscaloosa.</p><h3>Lincoln Riley</h3><p>Year 1 in Los Angeles was a Hollywood dream for Riley with an 11-3 record in his first campaign at USC. It's been a horror movie since, with the Trojans stumbling to a mediocre 15-11 mark across the past two seasons. While that's still above .500, USC didn't give Riley over $100 million to be in the mid-tier of the Big Ten. But there's a new face on campus to help Riley's 87th-ranked defense in the form of Rob Ryan ... yes, that Rob Ryan. Hopefully, that pays dividends, because another middling defense dragging this team down won't be good for Riley's long-term future.</p><h3>Harold Perkins Jr.</h3><p>Perkins was an absolute menace as a freshman, but two turbulent seasons featuring a position change and a torn ACL have all but ended the hype around the LSU defender. He'll look to change that in his final collegiate season, reminding NFL scouts about why his skill set initially had them drooling while trying to right the ship of last season's 89th-ranked defense in the nation.</p><h3>Garrett Nussmeier</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754492/cropped_GettyImages-2183916372.jpg?ts=1731199009" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754492/w220xh124_GettyImages-2183916372.jpg?ts=1731199009 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754492/w320xh180_GettyImages-2183916372.jpg?ts=1731199009 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754492/w640xh360_GettyImages-2183916372.jpg?ts=1731199009 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754492/w768xh432_GettyImages-2183916372.jpg?ts=1731199009 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754492/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2183916372.jpg?ts=1731199009 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Aric Becker/ISI Photos / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>There isn't a throw in the world that Nussmeier won't try. That mindset produces plenty of "wow" highlights, but it also sprinkles in the odd "WTF" moments. Nussmeier's arm talent is elite, and he's poised to put up outrageous numbers and be a Heisman favorite in LSU's pass-happy offense. It also might land him another quarterbacking job in Louisiana, as the New Orleans Saints are expected to have a high pick in next year's draft.</p><h3>Jeremiyah Love</h3><p>Love might be the most electrifying player in the nation who isn't named Jeremiah Smith. The Notre Dame speedster <em><strong>averaged</strong> </em>6.9 yards per carry last year and scored 17 touchdowns on the ground. And all that was on just 10 carries per game. Add a much bigger role this time around, and it's scary to think what Love could accomplish in South Bend.</p><h3>Kyron Hudson, Trebor Pena, Devonte Ross</h3><p>What was your favorite catch by a Penn State wide receiver in last year's playoff loss to Notre Dame? Trick question: there wasn't one. Drew Allar completed just 12 of 23 passes in the contest: six to tight end Tyler Warren and six more to a combination of running backs and backup tight ends. That's not all on Allar, as his wideout group proved time and again last year that they weren't on a championship level. With Warren now in the NFL, it's this trio of transfer receivers who will attempt to finally get Penn State over the hump. Hudson and Pena have especially impressed in fall camp and will be vital in both Allar's development and the Nittany Lions' title hopes.</p><h3>Cade Klubnik</h3><p>It seems so long ago that disgruntled Clemson fans were calling for Klubnik to be benched. Dabo Swinney stood by his quarterback and got rewarded in a big way. Klubnik starred down the stretch last season, with his improved decision-making under pressure standing out most. He threw just six interceptions against 37 touchdown passes, a strong indication of his growing poise and command. Expect more of that in 2025.</p><h3>LaNorris Sellers</h3><p>With a blend of electric playmaking ability and raw talent, Sellers might be the most fun quarterback in the country to watch. That is, unless, of course, you're the Clemson defense.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Oxh1E_00Ubc?si=tGizSZAp8dknYB2J" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>NFL scouts have already taken notice, and another season developing as a passer should have him flying up draft boards.</p><h3>Deion Sanders</h3><p>It's must-watch TV whenever there's a microphone around Coach Prime. The gregarious Sanders appears to be back in good health after receiving treatment for bladder cancer in the offseason. He now enters a season at Colorado without the all-world talents of his son Shedeur and the electric Travis Hunter for the first time. How he navigates that situation will again turn plenty of eyes toward Boulder.</p><h3>David Bailey Jr.</h3><p>Can money take a middle-tier Big 12 program to the national spotlight in college football? Texas Tech seems hell-bent on finding out. The Red Raiders splashed a boatload of cash this offseason to procure a number of transfers - none more impactful than David Bailey from Stanford. The pass-rusher has 14.5 sacks in his career and led the ACC in pressure rate last season. He'll be a major help to a program that ranked 92nd in sacks in 2024. If Texas Tech is going to make a playoff push, it'll likely be based heavily on Bailey hounding opposing quarterbacks.</p><h3>Nico Iamaleava</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798146/cropped_GettyImages-2212718378.jpg?ts=1755658191" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798146/w220xh124_GettyImages-2212718378.jpg?ts=1755658191 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798146/w320xh180_GettyImages-2212718378.jpg?ts=1755658191 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798146/w640xh360_GettyImages-2212718378.jpg?ts=1755658191 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798146/w768xh432_GettyImages-2212718378.jpg?ts=1755658191 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798146/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2212718378.jpg?ts=1755658191 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ric Tapia / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The face of one of college sports' first contract disputes has returned home to California and will be the highly scrutinized quarterback at UCLA. Iamaleava decided - or had it decided for him - that he was worth more to Tennessee than the NIL dollars he was being paid. The Volunteers disagreed, so he packed up and returned to the friendly setting of Los Angeles. One party will emerge from the 2025 season looking silly for how the whole saga unfolded. Will it be Tennessee for allowing a future first-round QB to leave over money, or will it be Iamaleava for thinking he was a significantly different level of player than the Volunteers saw?</p><h3>Corey Hetherman</h3><p>How does a team that leads the country in scoring at 44 points per game and has the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL draft fail to make the playoffs? Ladies and gentlemen, let me introduce you to the 2024 Miami defensive unit. The Hurricanes allowed at least 30 points in six of their last nine games to fall agonizingly short of a playoff bid. With Carson Beck now under center, the offense is surely set to thrive again. However, it's the new man running the defense who will likely decide the fate of Miami. Mario Cristobal brought in Hetherman from Minnesota in the offseason to fix that side of the ball.</p><h3>Koi Perich</h3><p>Goodbye, Travis Hunter, hello ... Koi Perich? Fresh off an incredible freshman season in which the Minnesota safety led the Big Ten in interceptions, both Perich and coach PJ Fleck have hinted at a dual-threat role in Year 2. Perich did just about everything on a football field in his elite high school career, and his performance as a freshman suggests he can repeat that at this level as well. Whether it's as a runner, passer, or receiver, Minnesota's potential plan for Perich makes them a must-watch program this year.</p><h3>Bill Belichick</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784792/cropped_GettyImages-2198457470.jpg?ts=1746797459" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784792/w220xh124_GettyImages-2198457470.jpg?ts=1746797459 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784792/w320xh180_GettyImages-2198457470.jpg?ts=1746797459 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784792/w640xh360_GettyImages-2198457470.jpg?ts=1746797459 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784792/w768xh432_GettyImages-2198457470.jpg?ts=1746797459 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784792/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2198457470.jpg?ts=1746797459 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Mike Coppola / Getty Images Entertainment / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Do we really need to explain this one? Arguably the greatest NFL coach of all time is stepping into the college ranks at the age of 73 to try to tame the ACC with North Carolina. Oh, and he has his 24-year-old girlfriend in tow to handle his personal business side of things. If that's not enough to draw your interest to Chapel Hill, maybe college football isn't for you.</p><h3>John Mateer</h3><p>You can bet on Mateer being a huge upgrade at the quarterback position from the debacle at that spot for Oklahoma last year. The Washington State star followed his coordinator, Ben Arbuckle, to Norman, with head coach Brent Venables in desperate need of a strong season to calm the fervor surrounding his job status. If Mateer hits, Oklahoma could be a sneaky SEC title contender. If he fails to elevate the offense, Venables could be seeing a pink slip before the end of the season.</p><h3>Bryce Underwood</h3><p>The only teams worse than Michigan at passing the ball last year were Army, Navy, and Air Force - three service academies that purposely avoid throwing on offense. The Wolverines' solution to that issue comes in the form of highly touted freshman Bryce Underwood, a five-star local prospect who flipped his commitment from LSU in part due to significant financial support from Oracle founder Larry Ellison. Underwood looks poised to earn the rare distinction of being a starting quarterback as a true freshman, as the Wolverines aim to build on their stunning season-ending wins over Ohio State and Alabama.</p><h3>Zachariah Branch, Noah Thomas</h3><p>The Carson Beck era is officially over at Georgia, and it's Gunner Stockton who will try to lead the Bulldogs back to the national title game. To assist his new starting quarterback, Kirby Smart prioritized finding players who can catch the ball. After Georgia led the nation in drops last season, the program brought in the electric Zachariah Branch from USC and Noah Thomas from Texas A&amp;M to make life easy for Stockton. While it's doubtful Smart will let Stockton cut loose from the pocket, the fresh weapons should give the Bulldogs plenty of bite in the passing attack.</p><h3>Sam Leavitt</h3><p>Leavitt shone as the starting quarterback on college football's biggest surprise last season. Nobody saw the Arizona State playoff charge coming, but Leavitt's dual-threat capabilities were a major reason for the Sun Devils' shocking success. The job this time out is made much tougher with the departure of perhaps 2024's most dangerous offensive weapon - the incredible Cam Skattebo. However, head coach Kenny Dillingham has proven his game-calling skills over the years and should have Leavitt primed for another outstanding season as the best quarterback in the Big 12.</p><h3>Will Stein</h3><p>Stein's a perfect 2-for-2 at Oregon in sending quarterbacks to the Heisman ceremony, with Bo Nix and Dillon Gabriel getting invites to New York. If he pulls that off for a third straight year, it's safe to assume the coach won't be at Oregon come 2026. However, the task is tall this year with Dante Moore under center - a highly touted passer who started as a freshman at UCLA before transferring to the Ducks prior to last season. If Stein can get Moore anywhere near the level Nix and Gabriel played, Oregon's a legit national title threat in the Big Ten.</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32126007/related

CFB 25: The most important names to know for the season

The bill has finally come due in the Michigan sign-stealing scandal, with the NCAA handing out it...

<p>The bill has finally come due in the Michigan sign-stealing scandal, with the NCAA handing out its <a href="https://www.ncaa.org/news/2025/8/15/media-center-overwhelming-evidence-shows-impermissible-scouting-scheme-in-michigan-football-program.aspx">punishment</a> Friday after a lengthy investigation found "overwhelming evidence" of scouting and recruiting violations. Michigan later announced it would appeal the ruling.</p><p>The infractions committee handed former coach Jim Harbaugh a 10-year show-cause penalty banning him from all athletically related activities, while ex-analyst Connor Stalions got an eight-year show-cause order with the same restrictions. Current Wolverines coach Sherrone Moore will be suspended three total games after the school initially self-imposed a two-game ban.</p><p>The school was also put on four years probation and hit with a number of other penalties:</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><ul>
<li>A $50,000 fine, plus 10% of the budget for the football program</li>
<li>A fine equivalent to the anticipated loss of all postseason competition revenue sharing associated with the 2025 and 2026 football seasons</li>
<li>A fine equivalent to the cost of 10% of the scholarships awarded in Michigan's football program for the 2025-26 academic year</li>
<li>A 25% reduction in football official visits during the 2025-26 season</li>
<li>A 14-week prohibition on recruiting communications in the football program during the probation period</li>
</ul><p>"The panel determined that a postseason ban would unfairly penalize student-athletes for the actions of coaches and staff who are no longer associated with the Michigan football program," the NCAA said in its statement.</p><p>"Thus, the panel determined a more appropriate penalty is an offsetting financial penalty instead of a two-year postseason ban."</p><p>The NCAA's investigation began in early 2023 after allegations that Stalions had run an in-person sign-stealing operation for Michigan. The program suspended the former defensive analyst, who later resigned.</p><p>The investigation determined Stalions orchestrated an "impermissible scouting scheme" from 2021-23, directing individuals to conduct off-campus, in-person scouting of the Wolverines' future regular-season opponents 56 different times.</p><p>Stalions' conduct was ultimately found to be a collective Level I violation of the NCAA's impermissible scouting rule. The former Michigan staffer admitted to spending almost $35,000 on tickets to opponents' games in 2022 alone. </p><p>He instructed an intern to "clear out" evidence related to the case, including emails, phones, and text messages. Stalions also told the NCAA that he threw his phone and the film he acquired from the sign-stealing operation into a pond. The NCAA said, "In short, Stalions' multiple and repeated failures to cooperate are some of the worst the (infractions committee) has ever seen."</p><p>Moore was the offensive coordinator for Michigan in 2023 before replacing Harbaugh as head coach the following season. He'll serve a two-game suspension from Week 3-4 in 2025 and a one-game ban to begin the 2026 season for his failure to cooperate, a Level II violation. He also received a two-year show-cause order that doesn't restrict his activities beyond the suspension.</p><p>Moore erased a 52-message text thread with Stalions from his personal phone. He also deleted a single text from his school-issued phone that was part of a thread referencing Stalions' standing by Moore during a game.</p><p>Harbaugh was suspended for the final three games of the 2023 regular season by the Big Ten as part of the conference's investigation. Michigan went on to win the national championship, and Harbaugh departed to become the head coach of the Los Angeles Chargers weeks later.</p><p>The committee determined Harbaugh violated the principles of head coach responsibility, failed to cooperate with the investigation, and failed to monitor Michigan's football program. His show-cause order won't kick in until August 2028 at the end of a previously imposed four-year show-cause order.</p><p>A statement from Michigan said: "In a number of instances the decision makes fundamental errors in interpreting NCAA bylaws; and it includes a number of conclusions that are directly contrary to the evidence - or lack of evidence - in the record. We will appeal this decision to ensure a fair result, and we will consider all other options."</p><p>Michigan is coming off an 8-5 season in Moore's first year as head coach. The Wolverines kick off the 2025 campaign against New Mexico on Aug. 30.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p>

ANN ARBOR, MICHIGAN - SEPTEMBER 03: Head Football Coach Jim Harbaugh (L), Offensive Coordinator / Assistant Football Coach Sherrone Moore (C), and Assistant Football Coach Mimi Bolden-Morris (R) of the Michigan Wolverines are seen on the sideline during a college football game against the Colorado State Rams at Michigan Stadium on September 03, 2022 in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

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NCAA hits Michigan with numerous penalties for sign-stealing scandal

Jon Gruden wants back in the coaching game, and it appears the veteran NFL frontman is eyeing a s...

<p>Jon Gruden wants back in the coaching game, and it appears the veteran NFL frontman is eyeing a spot in the collegiate ranks this time around.</p><p>Gruden recently spent time at Georgia speaking to the Bulldogs prior to their 2025 season opener, and made it clear he's interested in making the sideline his home once again.</p><p>"The only reason I really came here is I want to coach again," Gruden told the team, as captured on his <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y9UuhJhKXTI">YouTube channel</a>. "I'm being honest with you. I do not bullshit either. I want to coach again. I'd die to coach in the SEC. I would love it."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>While Gruden's lengthy NFL career is certainly the lead on his resume, he actually began his coaching life as a graduate assistant at Tennessee. He's been rumored a number of times to be a candidate for various college openings - including with the Volunteers prior to the hire of Josh Heupel.</p><p>Gruden's latest NFL job was with the New Orleans Saints as a consultant in 2023 after he resigned from his second stint with the Las Vegas Raiders in 2021. Gruden made that decision after unprofessional emails containing homophobic and misogynistic remarks leaked during an investigation into the Washington Commanders and former owner Dan Snyder.</p><p>His prior stints with both the Raiders and Tampa Bay Buccaneers from 1998-2008 resulted in five division titles and a victory in Super Bowl XXXVII.</p>

TAMPA, FL - AUGUST 07: Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers Super Bowl winning Head Coach Jon Gruden visits with friends during the Titans - Buccaneers Joint Training Camp work out on August 07, 2025 at the AdventHealth Training Center at One Buccaneer Place in Tampa, Florida.

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Gruden eyeing sideline return: 'I'd die to coach in the SEC'

Despite being listed as QB4 on the Cleveland Browns' initial depth chart, Shedeur Sanders is expe...

<p>Despite being listed as QB4 on the Cleveland Browns' initial depth chart, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/210099" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/210099">Shedeur Sanders</a> is expected to start the club's preseason opener Friday, <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/45909479/sources-browns-start-shedeur-sanders-preseason-opener">sources told ESPN</a>.</p><p>Sanders has yet to take a snap with Cleveland's first-team offense in training camp, but the fifth-round pick will get an extended look from the jump against the Carolina Panthers. Kenny Pickett and Dillon Gabriel are both battling hamstring injuries, while 40-year-old starter Joe Flacco will likely join most veterans in skipping the majority of the preseason.</p><p>The Browns added a fifth quarterback to the mix earlier this week, signing former Pro Bowler Tyler Huntley to provide the team with another healthy passer for the preseason.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>While it's unlikely Sanders will unseat Flacco as the starter, he could make significant strides toward passing Pickett and Gabriel on the depth chart with a strong showing Friday.</p>

BEREA, OHIO - JULY 30: Shedeur Sanders #12 of the Cleveland Browns looks to pass during Cleveland Browns training camp at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus on July 30, 2025 in Berea, Ohio.

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Report: Shedeur expected to start preseason opener

The Philadelphia Eagles added to their secondary depth Monday night, acquiring Jakorian Bennett f...

<p>The Philadelphia Eagles added to their secondary depth Monday night, acquiring <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188218" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188218">Jakorian Bennett</a> from the Las Vegas Raiders for defensive tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174143" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174143">Thomas Booker IV</a>, sources told <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/1952537053188813222">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>.</p><p>Bennett, a former fourth-round pick, performed well in spurts last year for the Raiders, ranking 22nd in the NFL with seven pass breakups. However, at 5-foot-10, he doesn't exactly fit new coach Pete Carroll's penchant for long, lengthy cornerbacks.</p><p>He was the odd man out of the first-team defense at Raiders practices, <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6532595/2025/08/02/raiders-training-camp-practice-report/">Tashan Reed of The Athletic</a> reported earlier in the week, with the trio of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161673" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161673">Eric Stokes</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199883" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199883">Decamerion Richardson</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/210010" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/210010">Darien Porter</a> getting the majority of the snaps.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Bennett joins an Eagles secondary that parted with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/53740" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/53740">Darius Slay</a> in the offseason, leaving an opening at outside corner on the other side of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199758" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199758">Quinyon Mitchell</a>. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/87563" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/87563">Adoree' Jackson</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188344" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188344">Kelee Ringo</a> have battled in camp for that spot.</p><p>Booker arrives in Las Vegas after the Raiders released defensive tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/94542" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/94542">Christian Wilkins</a> in July.</p><p>The former Stanford defender started just one game last year for the Super Bowl champions, but he saw action in 17 contests. </p>

MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - NOVEMBER 17: Jakorian Bennett #0 of the Las Vegas Raiders warms up prior to a game against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium on November 17, 2024 in Miami Gardens, Florida.

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Report: Raiders deal Bennett to Eagles for Booker

The Cleveland Browns released their initial depth chart for the start of the 2025 preseason, and ...

<p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/10" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/10">Cleveland Browns</a> released their <a href="https://www.clevelandbrowns.com/news/browns-announce-unofficial-depth-chart-for-1st-preseason-game-vs-panthers">initial depth chart</a> for the start of the 2025 preseason, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/210099" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/210099">Shedeur Sanders</a> appears to be facing an uphill battle for playing time in his rookie campaign.</p><p>Sanders is fourth on the list at quarterback, behind veterans <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/2945" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/2945">Joe Flacco</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/173994" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/173994">Kenny Pickett</a>, while also trailing fellow rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/209984" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209984">Dillon Gabriel</a>.</p><p>It's no surprise to see Flacco and Pickett ahead of the Colorado star, but Gabriel as QB3 is notable. The Browns drafted the former Oregon star in the third round before finally stopping Sanders' slide in the fifth.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The depth chart wasn't the only piece of quarterback news from the Browns on Monday, as sources told <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/1952516333024747719">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a> that former Pro Bowler Tyler Huntley signed with the club to give them another arm throughout camp.</p><p>Cleveland opens its preseason Friday in Charlotte against the Carolina Panthers before facing the Philadelphia Eagles and Los Angeles Rams to wrap up the schedule.</p>

BEREA, OHIO - JUNE 11: Shedeur Sanders #12 and Dillon Gabriel #5 of the Cleveland Browns run a drill during Cleveland Browns mandatory minicamp at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus on June 11, 2025 in Berea, Ohio.

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Browns list Shedeur as QB4 on initial depth chart

Billy Donovan's tenure with the Chicago Bulls will continue for the foreseeable future as the hea...

<p>Billy Donovan's tenure with the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/6" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/6">Chicago Bulls</a> will continue for the foreseeable future as the head coach agreed to a long-term extension with the club, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1949482949960716673">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>Donovan has been with the organization for five seasons, amassing a 195-205 record in 400 games and making the playoffs once.</p><p>He emerged as a potential candidate for the New York Knicks' opening once the team fired Tom Thibodeau but ultimately remains in Chicago as the Bulls continue their rebuild.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Prior to joining the Bulls, Donovan coached for five years with the Oklahoma City Thunder, posting a 243-157 mark in the process. He made his name as a coach with his massive success in the collegiate ranks, winning back-to-back national titles with Florida in 2006 and 2007.</p>

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 12: Head coach Billy Donovan of the Chicago Bulls looks on against the Denver Nuggets during the first half at the United Center on October 12, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Report: Bulls sign Donovan to multi-year extension

"I never thought in my lifetime I'd see a player as close to Tiger as this man currently is. Scot...

<p>"I never thought in my lifetime I'd see a player as close to Tiger as this man currently is. Scottie Scheffler just blows my mind every time I watch him play."</p><p>Wait. What? Tiger? As in Tiger Woods?</p><p>Jim "Bones" Mackay's comment during the third round of The Open might sound outlandish at first, but the NBC broadcaster's take may not be so far-fetched.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Mackay might be as qualified as anyone to make the Tiger comparison. He served as Phil Mickelson's caddie for 25 years, a position that offered him a front-row seat to some of Woods' most ridiculous moments.</p><p>Statistics also support Mackay's claim. Scheffler's overall strokes gained metrics are similar to those of Woods during his peak. Add in one of the wildest stats in recent memory, and the similarities between the two get scary.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">This is one of the craziest stats EVER.<br><br>It took Tiger 1,197 days to win his 4th major after he won his 1st.<br><br>Scottie will win his 4th major today... 1,197 days since his 1st.<br><br>🤯🤯🤯 <a href="https://t.co/Wf7gJ9mS5n">pic.twitter.com/Wf7gJ9mS5n</a></p>— theScore (@theScore) <a href="https://twitter.com/theScore/status/1946986264994947371?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>But you don't need to dive into the data to understand why Scheffler is the closest thing we've seen to Woods in men's golf. Watching Scheffler is enough to grasp the comparison.</p><p>His pinpoint execution is the first thing that jumps out. He exhibits the same outrageous control over his irons that separated Woods from the rest.</p><p>Scheffler leads the PGA TOUR for the third straight season in strokes gained: approach, this time by nearly half a shot over second place. He put that on full display at Portrush, with the 28-year-old standing alone at the top in approach play. That was expected, though.</p><p>Scheffler's work on the greens is what really made him don his stripes and look Tiger-like. Woods made his career by drilling putt after putt and demoralizing the chase pack. What was once a weakness is now a strength for Scheffler, with the Texan leading the field in strokes gained: putting this week. With all due respect to Rory McIlroy, Bryson DeChambeau, Xander Schauffele, and the rest of the field, no one is beating Scheffler if he leads in approach and putting.</p><p>Scheffler perhaps best showed his putting prowess during his only wobble Sunday, making three straight putts of 14 feet or longer through holes five through seven to score a birdie and two clutch pars. That stretch extinguished even the faintest hope for anyone else on the course and all but sealed the outcome.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795000/cropped_GettyImages-2226159960.jpg?ts=1753034899" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795000/w220xh124_GettyImages-2226159960.jpg?ts=1753034899 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795000/w320xh180_GettyImages-2226159960.jpg?ts=1753034899 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795000/w640xh360_GettyImages-2226159960.jpg?ts=1753034899 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795000/w768xh432_GettyImages-2226159960.jpg?ts=1753034899 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795000/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2226159960.jpg?ts=1753034899 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Pedro Salado / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Inevitability is something else Scheffler has in common with Woods. Playing alongside Scheffler in the final group, Haotong Li appeared to sense The Open was already decided, effectively admitting before the round that he was gunning for second.</p><p>McIlroy and Matt Fitzpatrick, paired in the penultimate group, also acknowledged their slim chances heading into Sunday, contending with a leader who held a commanding four-shot edge.</p><p>That inevitability is what made Woods essentially a lock at closing out 54-hole leads, something Scheffler has now done 10 straight times.</p><p>So, is Scheffler the second coming of Tiger? Despite all the similarities, there's one significant difference between the two: demeanor on the course. Woods brought a swag and aura to the game that was a breath of fresh air. For lack of a better term, he made it "cool" to play golf. Scheffler's performances are a lot of things, but "cool" certainly isn't how you would describe them.</p><p>In the most complimentary way possible, Scheffler's brand of golf comes across as rather dull. He's a clinical tactician who methodically manages his way around the course and expertly avoids trouble. His muted demeanor, especially in comparison to the fist-pumping, roof-raising Woods, creates a different viewing experience.</p><p>Still, it's not Scheffler's job to entertain. His job is to win golf tournaments. While he may not garner the mainstream attention or fanfare that Woods did in his prime, Scheffler delivers a masterclass of comparable caliber once the first tee ball is in the air.</p><p>"When it comes to execution and the time to turn that switch on and hit a quality shot, they're identical in that respect," Mackay told <a href="https://x.com/fried_egg_golf/status/1946642770623389739">Fried Egg Golf</a>.</p><p>Scheffler has achieved something even Woods never accomplished, becoming the first man in 117 years to win his first four majors by at least three shots.</p><p>No, Scheffler won't ever rise to the cultural level of Woods or bring the same amount of eyeballs to the sport for his electric play. </p><p>However, there are few things better in sport than watching a master who's perfected his craft go to work. After this week at Portrush, there's no question Scheffler is firmly at that place in golf.</p>

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Scottie earns stripes: Scheffler gives shades of Tiger in Open triumph

Scottie Scheffler needed just two shots to remove any drama from Sunday at the Open Championship....

<p>Scottie Scheffler needed just two shots to remove any drama from Sunday at the Open Championship.</p><p>His tee shot into the light rough and the approach to 14 inches on the first hole at Royal Portrush made it clear that Sunday would be a four-hour coronation, not an electric chase from the field.</p><p>The entire afternoon was trademark Scheffler, with the 29-year-old picking apart the iconic venue using clinical precision to stretch his lead to seven at one point. The trophy engraver could have taken the rest of the day off, as both he and Scheffler's work was done early.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Scheffler's final-round 68 capped a brilliant week and left him well clear of Harris English, Chris Gotterup, and the rest of the field as he claimed the fourth major title of his career.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Place</th>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Round 4 score</th>
<th>Total to par</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>Scottie Scheffler</td>
<td>68</td>
<td>-17</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>Harris English</td>
<td>66</td>
<td>-13</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>Chris Gotterup</td>
<td>67</td>
<td>-12</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-4</td>
<td>Wyndham Clark</td>
<td>65</td>
<td>-11</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-4</td>
<td>Matt Fitzpatrick</td>
<td>69</td>
<td>-11</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-4</td>
<td>Haotong Li</td>
<td>70</td>
<td>-11</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-7</td>
<td>Rory McIlroy</td>
<td>69</td>
<td>-10</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-7</td>
<td>Robert MacIntyre</td>
<td>67</td>
<td>-10</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-7</td>
<td>Xander Schauffele</td>
<td>68</td>
<td>-10</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-10</td>
<td>Bryson DeChambeau</td>
<td>64</td>
<td>-9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-10</td>
<td>Corey Conners</td>
<td>66</td>
<td>-9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-10</td>
<td>Brian Harman</td>
<td>68</td>
<td>-9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-10</td>
<td>Russell Henley</td>
<td>68</td>
<td>-9</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>It was evident early that Scheffler's challenge wasn't going to be anybody in the field but rather a run at history on a brilliant afternoon in Northern Ireland. He joins Gary Player, Tiger Woods, and Jack Nicklaus as the only men to win the PGA Championship, the Masters, and the Open Championship before age 30.</p><p>Scheffler's win seemed inevitable the entire week, especially once he established his comfort on the Portrush greens. He flashed his usual elite approach play again while also leading the field in strokes gained: putting at over eight shots for the week.</p><p>Scheffler made a whopping 59-of-63 putts from inside 10 feet this week, and pointed to his ongoing work with putting coach Phil Kenyon for his vast improvement in that area of the game.</p><p>"I feel like I've done a lot of good work with Phil over the last couple years. Phil is a great guy for me to be able to bounce stuff off of. He's a tremendous coach and a great friend as well. We've made some real good progress," <a href="http://blob:https://media.theopen.com/9a7ab8e9-7906-4bc8-951d-1326d1fb07c1">said Scheffler</a>. "Phil's been just tremendous for me. Kind of helped me be more athletic, giving me the confidence I need to go out there and just be committed to what I'm doing."</p><p>English and Gotterup both closed in style to make it an all-American podium, firing rounds of 66 and 67, respectively. Rory McIlroy couldn't muster the same score to get into the mix, as the local favorite struggled to continue the momentum from Saturday's 66. </p><p>McIlroy finished Sunday with a 69 to tie for seventh but admitted the challenge was too much for anybody to catch Scheffler.</p><p>"None of us could hang with Scottie this week. He's an incredible player. He's been dominant this week. Honestly, he's been dominant for the last couple years. He is the bar that we're all trying to get to," <a href="http://blob:https://media.theopen.com/30788aaf-a1df-4665-9704-05befaa255f9">McIlroy said</a>. "In a historical context, you could argue that there's only maybe two or three players in the history of the game that have been on a run, the one that Scottie's been on here for the last 24 to 36 months. Incredibly impressive."</p><p>Matt Fitzpatrick - who played alongside Scheffler in the final group Saturday - echoed similar sentiments about the winner following his round. </p><p>"I think Scottie Scheffler is a different class, obviously," <a href="http://blob:https://media.theopen.com/7f2eda7a-b73c-4f42-8e65-56b9c50894d3">Fitzpatrick said</a>, full of praise. "He's literally a full shot probably better than the next best player in the world, let alone myself, who's not the second best player in the world."</p><p>Scheffler's victory will add plenty of intrigue to next year's major championship season with a U.S. Open title the only thing missing from the career grand slam. A victory at Shinnecock Hills in June would see Scheffler become just the seventh man to accomplish that feat - just one year after McIlroy joined the club with his Masters win.</p>

PORTRUSH, NORTHERN IRELAND - JULY 20: Scottie Scheffler of the United States poses with the Claret Jug on the 18th green after winning The 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush Golf Club on July 20, 2025 in Portrush, Northern Ireland.

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Scheffler wins The Open with dominant week at Portrush

Outside of Rory McIlroy playing in his home country, there might not be another player who brings...

<p>Outside of Rory McIlroy playing in his home country, there might not be another player who brings more noise to a golf course than Bryson DeChambeau.</p><p>The two-time U.S. Open champion brought the crowd to life over the weekend at The Open, rebounding from a dismal 78 on Thursday with rounds of 65, 68, and 64 to fly up the leaderboard.</p><p>With the major season now complete, the next non-LIV event for DeChambeau is in September at the Ryder Cup, where the U.S. will play host at Bethpage Black, just outside New York.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>DeChambeau certainly has the date circled on his calendar, as the Americans look to reclaim the Ryder Cup title after a disappointing loss in Italy two years ago.</p><p>"I hope I can bring a lot of energy and a tsunami of a crowd that's going to be rooting for Team USA," DeChambeau <a href="http://blob:https://media.theopen.com/73f37088-09d2-4ec4-94cf-6c2fc7a2c167">told reporters</a> after his final round Sunday.</p><p>Although DeChambeau has played on numerous Ryder Cup teams in the past, this year's squad will ask him to take a starring role as one of the top players in the world.</p><p>However, DeChambeau wasn't the only golfer with the Ryder Cup in the back of his mind this week at Portrush. DeChambeau said U.S. captain Keegan Bradley left personal notes in some players' lockers.</p><p>"It meant a lot," DeChambeau added. "This year is no joke. We're tired of it. We're tired of losing."</p><p> </p>

PORTRUSH, NORTHERN IRELAND - JULY 20: Bryson DeChambeau of the United States celebrates on the 18th green during day four of The 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush Golf Club on July 20, 2025 in Portrush, Northern Ireland.

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Bryson wants 'tsunami of a crowd' for Ryder Cup at Bethpage

Although Scottie Scheffler is all but guaranteed to win the Open Championship on Sunday, Rory McI...

<p>Although Scottie Scheffler is all but guaranteed to win the Open Championship on Sunday, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/599" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/599">Rory McIlroy</a> won the day in Round 3 at Royal Portrush.</p><p>With a legion of adoring fans following his every move Saturday, the Northern Irish golfer birdied three of his first four holes en route to a 5-under 66 that took him into fourth place. The highlight was a 56-foot eagle putt on the 12th, with a packed grandstand enjoying a perfect view from directly behind the 36-year-old.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">It's ridiculous. It's Rory.<br><br>Royal Portrush will remember this one. <a href="https://t.co/VKSnyvBsse">pic.twitter.com/VKSnyvBsse</a></p>— The Open (@TheOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheOpen/status/1946609265155694641?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"This could be one of the coolest moments I've ever had on the golf course," McIlroy said after the round. "The roar when this ball was in was insane. It was insane all day, but the noise after that putt went in was incredible."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The eagle was even more impressive because it came on the heels of McIlroy's lone bogey in the round - which resulted from arguably the strangest thing we've seen on the golf course this year.</p><p>After finding the rough off the tee, McIlroy struck his approach, only for an embedded ball inches in front of his own to fly into the air.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Watch it. Watch it again. <a href="https://t.co/I48KVCk80b">pic.twitter.com/I48KVCk80b</a></p>— The Open (@TheOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheOpen/status/1946605048688943125?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>McIlroy admitted afterward that he was as puzzled as anyone when the ball popped up into the air.</p><p>"That is the most weird, ridiculous thing I've ever seen," he said. "Then my ball came out really weird and spinny. Yeah, just so strange."</p><p>He was able to add another birdie on the 15th after hitting the flag with his approach from the rough and will play in the second-to-last group Sunday.</p><p>McIlroy has posted some legendary come-from-behind wins on the PGA TOUR, but he gave an honest assessment of his chances in the season's final major.</p><p>"Scottie is the best player in the world right now. I think it's clear for everyone to see," McIlroy said. "He's just consistently so good each and every week he tees it up, so it's going to be a tall order to be able to catch him tomorrow. But I'm going to look forward to the challenge."</p>

Northern Ireland's Rory McIlroy reacts to making a eagle putt on the 12th green on day three of the 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush golf club in Northern Ireland on July 19, 2025.

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McIlroy: Eagle on 12 among 'coolest moments' I've had on course

Clinical. Relentless. Boring.   It was a classic Scottie Scheffler performance Saturday at the Op...

<p>Clinical. Relentless. Boring. </p><p>It was a classic Scottie Scheffler performance Saturday at the Open Championship - one that leaves the rest of the field with little hope heading to the final round.</p><p>The World No. 1 looked every bit the part around Royal Portrush with a tidy bogey-free 67 to push his lead to four. Haotong Li is the only other man to reach at least 10-under, with Matt Fitzpatrick five back and Rory McIlroy leading the group at 8-under after a sizzling 66.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Place</th>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Round 3 score</th>
<th>Total to par</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>Scottie Scheffler</td>
<td>67</td>
<td>-14</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>Haotong Li</td>
<td>69</td>
<td>-10</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>Matt Fitzpatrick</td>
<td>71</td>
<td>-9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-4</td>
<td>Rory McIlroy</td>
<td>66</td>
<td>-8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-4</td>
<td>Harris English</td>
<td>68</td>
<td>-8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-4</td>
<td>Tyrrell Hatton</td>
<td>68</td>
<td>-8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-4</td>
<td>Chris Gotterup</td>
<td>68</td>
<td>-8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td>Xander Schauffele</td>
<td>66</td>
<td>-7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-9</td>
<td>Rasmus Hojgaard</td>
<td>70</td>
<td>-6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-9</td>
<td>Russell Henley</td>
<td>65</td>
<td>-6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-9</td>
<td>Nicolai Hojgaard</td>
<td>69</td>
<td>-6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-9</td>
<td>Robert MacIntyre</td>
<td>70</td>
<td>-6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-9</td>
<td>Brian Harman</td>
<td>73</td>
<td>-6</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Royal Portrush was buzzing for a stretch of Saturday's action, especially after Northern Ireland's hero started his day with a bang. McIlroy birdied three of his opening four holes, giving the locals reason to dream.</p><p>Scheffler allowed those dreams to grow for the opening six holes of his round, looking a little loose with his irons as he parred that entire stretch. However, he punctured the crowd's hopes with an eagle on No. 7, followed by a birdie at the eighth hole.</p><p>An electric 56-foot eagle for McIlroy on No. 12 provided some brief hope for a blockbuster head-to-head Sunday matchup, but two all-world par saves by Scheffler on the back nine squashed that idea. He added a birdie on Portrush's iconic 16th for good measure, hitting a brilliant tee shot on the 239-yard par 3.</p><p>The statistics back up the eye test to indicate Scheffler is simply playing at a different level. His usual pinpoint approach play is once again on display; the three-time major winner ranks second in the field in that department through three rounds. However, it's his putting that has been the difference, as he currently leads the tournament on the greens. Add those together and this week simply isn't a fair fight.</p><p>"I think there's some pretty subtle slopes in these greens. I've done a really good job just being committed to my line," Scheffler told reporters. "Today I hit some good putts to start the round. I had a little three-putt there on the second hole, but I felt like I hit two putts the way I wanted to and I didn't let it bother me. I made a really nice putt there on the third hole to keep the momentum going. It was a little 10-footer for par, and that was what I felt like was a really important putt, and knocked it in."</p><p>While McIlroy gave his best effort to make up ground, neither Fitzpatrick nor Li could do the same despite starting within one and two shots of Scheffler, respectively. Fitzpatrick made noise early with an chip-in eagle on No. 2, but couldn't maintain the momentum. While the Chinese standout did enough to ensure a final-group pairing with the leader, a bogey on the 18th made the deficit four instead of three.</p><p>History suggests the trophy engraver can likely prep Scheffler's name, as he's converted nine straight solo 54-hole leads into wins. The Open itself has seen 21 of the last 24 winners enter the final round within four shots of the lead.</p><p>Even McIlroy - who's racked up 16 come-from-behind wins on the PGA TOUR - knows Sunday's task is a tall one.</p><p>"Scottie Scheffler is - it's inevitable," McIlroy said after the round. "He's improved so much with his putter. Yeah, it's going to be tough to catch him tomorrow if he keeps playing the way he does. But if I can get out tomorrow and get off to a similar start to what I did today, get the crowd going, hopefully he tails out a couple groups behind me, and you never know."</p>

US golfer Scottie Scheffler walks up the 17th fairway on day three of the 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush golf club in Northern Ireland on July 19, 2025.

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Relentless Scheffler takes 4-shot lead at The Open

Slow play in professional golf is once again in the news with rounds from the first two days at t...

<p>Slow play in professional golf is once again in the news with rounds from the first two days at this year's Open Championship nearing 6 hours in length.</p><p>That trend looked poised to continue for a couple of Saturday's groups, with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/437" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/437">Bryson DeChambeau</a> notably put on the clock by a rules official on the 17th hole.</p><p>The two-time major winner addressed the situation after he avoided penalty the rest of the way and posted a 3-under 68.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"We were struggling with pace the whole day," DeChambeau told media after the round. "I was moving my butt as fast as I could. Greens were really tricky. I was trying to read them right."</p><p>DeChambeau used to be considered one of the slower players in men's professional golf, but he's sped up considerably over the years. He's been outspoken about slow play in the past and laid out his solution to the problem after the round.</p><p>"You eventually time everybody for their whole entire round. Very simple," DeChambeau said. "Nobody wants to do it because people are too scared to get exposed, which I am an advocate for. I'd love to be timed, and I have no problem with that.</p><p>"If somebody is playing slower, the guy can go up to him and say, 'Hey, man, you're over par with your time.' All you do is you just time them for every single shot. He gets there and puts the bag down, and how long it takes him to hit that shot and how long it takes him to walk to the green. It's not rocket science."</p><p>Outside of the four majors, DeChambeau plies his trade on the LIV Golf circuit. That league made headlines last season when it handed Richard Bland a one-stroke penalty and fined him $10,000 for slow play during an event.</p><p>DeChambeau's not the only LIV member who's spoken out on the pace of play during The Open, as Marc Leishman did so earlier in the week.</p><p>"Felt like we were on the golf course for about 12 hours," Leishman told the press Thursday. "We've been on the course for 3 hours through eight holes. That was tough to deal with, especially coming from somewhere where we play in under 4:30 every week."</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p>

PORTRUSH, NORTHERN IRELAND - JULY 19: Bryson DeChambeau of United States looks on on the 12th hole during day three of The 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush Golf Club on July 19, 2025 in Portrush, Northern Ireland.

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Bryson's cure for slow play: Time everybody for whole round

Through two rounds of the Open Championship, the leaderboard represents how men's professional go...

<p>Through two rounds of the Open Championship, the leaderboard represents how men's professional golf has looked the past few years - everybody's looking up at Scottie Scheffler.</p><p>The World No. 1 once again showed why he stands alone in the sport when he's on, blitzing Royal Portrush for a 7-under 64 on Friday to leapfrog Matt Fitzpatrick for the top spot.</p><p>While Scheffler's brilliance is the top takeaway through the opening two days, it's not the only one from the season's final major.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Scottie learned how to putt</h3><p>Through two rounds at Royal Portrush, Scheffler leads the field ... in putting? The World No. 1 has turned what many would call his weakness into a massive strength this week. It'll make it a very boring weekend if he continues this form. Scheffler routinely leads the field in approach play - and this week is no different - but he often falls off the pace in putting. That includes last week's T-8 finish in Scotland despite beating only 15 players who made the cut on the greens.</p><p>His elite skill in the rest of his game allows him to thrive, but his putter is doing as much damage as anything else this week. Thanks to his prowess with the flatstick, Scheffler set a new personal record for lowest round in a major with his second-round 64. This one might already be over.</p><h3>Bryson, the volatile scientist</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794829/cropped_GettyImages-2225812536.jpg?ts=1752870149" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794829/w220xh124_GettyImages-2225812536.jpg?ts=1752870149 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794829/w320xh180_GettyImages-2225812536.jpg?ts=1752870149 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794829/w640xh360_GettyImages-2225812536.jpg?ts=1752870149 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794829/w768xh432_GettyImages-2225812536.jpg?ts=1752870149 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794829/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2225812536.jpg?ts=1752870149 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Oisin Keniry/R&amp;A / R &amp; A / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Uncontrolled variables are a nightmare for a scientist in any field - just ask Bryson DeChambeau. Golf's foremost science junkie often looks befuddled by the unpredictable laboratory that is links golf, with just one under-par round in his last seven at The Open entering Friday. That stretch included a birdie-free 7-over 78 on Thursday that put him on track for a second straight major missed cut. However, with tame conditions for Round 2, the variables became quite controlled, and DeChambeau thrived. By the time the dust settled, he had improved by an outrageous 13 strokes, pouring in seven birdies en route to a 6-under 65. According to <a href="https://x.com/JustinRayGolf/status/1946214423149920513">Justin Ray of the Twenty-First Group</a>, DeChambeau is the first player since Camilo Villegas in 2008 to go without a birdie or better in Round 1 of the Open and then make seven or more on Day 2.</p><h3>Hatton finds perfect amount of Guinness</h3><p>Despite some impressive play the past few years, Tyrrell Hatton is likely the runaway winner for angriest on-course golfer. The Englishman is never shy to share his disdain for his play on the course, alternating seamlessly between verbal tirades and demonstrative hand gestures throughout his round.</p><p>So, how does a man so tightly wound on the course relax afterward? With a steady mix of more golf and the perfect amount of Guinness. Hatton admitted Friday that he played a local course with friends on Wednesday night to unwind, and got just the right amount of the Irish beverage in him.</p><p>"It was a beautiful evening. I went and had three pints of Guinness afterwards, so that kind of made the evening a bit better." Hatton told reporters. "I think three is the magic number."</p><p>Whatever he's doing, it's working for Hatton in the majors lately. He opened with rounds of 68 and 69 at Portrush to sit tied for fifth heading to the weekend.</p><h3>The Butcher is back</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794830/cropped_GettyImages-2224944027.jpg?ts=1752870242" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794830/w220xh124_GettyImages-2224944027.jpg?ts=1752870242 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794830/w320xh180_GettyImages-2224944027.jpg?ts=1752870242 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794830/w640xh360_GettyImages-2224944027.jpg?ts=1752870242 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794830/w768xh432_GettyImages-2224944027.jpg?ts=1752870242 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794830/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2224944027.jpg?ts=1752870242 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ramsey Cardy / Sportsfile / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Two years after he was deemed "The Butcher" during his runaway win at Hoylake, Brian Harman is back on an Open Championship leaderboard - and once again drawing questions about his hunting hobby. During his maiden major championship victory, reporters became heavily interested in Harman's passion for hunting and butchering his own game. As Harman hunted flagsticks all day Friday to score a 6-under 65, one had to wonder if the media would quiz him again on his hobby. The answer was a resounding yes.</p><p><strong>Question:</strong> "You do know when someone says, 'What did you shoot today?' they mean your golf score?"</p><p><strong>Harman:</strong> "Yeah, I'm aware of that. I'm a very compartmentalized guy. I'm not thinking about hunting when I'm golfing. I'm not thinking about golfing when I'm hunting."</p><p>Harman's 65 matched the low round of the day and has him firmly in the mix to claim a second Open Championship title this weekend. It also likely has headline writers in the United Kingdom and Ireland on edge, as they scramble to outdo their pun-filled performances from two years prior.</p><h3>Old-man Leonard knows the links</h3><p>Justin Leonard is 53 years old, has made one major start in the last eight years, and drives the ball an average of just 265 yards off the tee - 30 yards shorter than the field average. So, of course, he'll play this weekend after making the cut at Royal Portrush. Now a regular on the Champions Tour, Leonard remains exempt from qualifying for The Open until he's 60 due to his win at Royal Birkdale in 1997. He's also in the Senior Open next week in England, so he figured he would make the start in Northern Ireland on his way by.</p><p>"I think about Greg Norman back at - what was it - Birkdale (in 2008, at age 53)," Leonard told <a href="https://golf.com/news/most-surprising-open-round-justin-leonard/">Sean Zak of Golf.com</a>. "And obviously Tom (Watson) at Turnberry (at 59). Look, I'm not trying to compare myself to those guys, but it does kind of give you a little, OK! If I can have a really nice week with the putter, drive the ball well, do everything well - look, I'm not trying to win the golf tournament. But I can play well."</p><p>How exactly is Leonard doing this? Percisely how you think a wily veteran would - by flexing his experience around the diabolical greens we see at links courses on The Open rota. The Texan ranks fifth in the entire field in strokes gained: around the green, using his vast knowledge to navigate the areas around the putting surfaces at Portrush.</p><h3>Bat in the booth!</h3><p>Perhaps the most dramatic moment of the day didn't come on the golf course, but in the NBC tower on the 18th hole when a bat shocked broadcasters Dan Hicks and Kevin Kisner.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">There’s a bat in the booth! <a href="https://t.co/IljrVpH5OA">pic.twitter.com/IljrVpH5OA</a></p>— Kyle Porter (@KylePorterNS) <a href="https://twitter.com/KylePorterNS/status/1946259718839640276?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>

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Portrush takeaways: Scottie the putter, Hatton's peak Guinness intake

While most of the top talent in men's golf will play at The Open this weekend, some notable names...

<p>While most of the top talent in men's golf will play at The Open this weekend, some notable names will be heading home from Royal Portrush on Friday night.</p><p>Collin Morikawa continues to battle his swing, especially on links courses: The two-time major champion fired rounds of 75 and 74 to finish at 7-over, well off the pace. He's now missed three of his last four cuts in the Open Championship since his 2021 win in front of limited fans due to COVID.</p><p>He's not the only multiple major winner done early in Northern Ireland: Brooks Koepka once again won't play the weekend in a major this season. The five-time major winner used to be the most feared man in golf when the biggest events rolled around, but that's not the case in 2025. Koepka missed the cut at three of the four majors this year, and his T-12 finish at the U.S. Open was his only four-round tournament.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Joaquin Niemann, meanwhile, still has issues bringing his strong play from the LIV Golf schedule to the biggest stage. Niemann's bogey on the 18th hole Friday ended up being the difference - he fell just one shot shy of the 1-over cut. He's now missed the cut in two straight majors and has just one top-10 finish in 26 starts. While his talent is undeniable, the Chilean clearly struggles when the setups get more difficult in the majors.</p><p>Other notables to miss the cut include Patrick Cantlay, Patrick Reed, Cameron Smith, Adam Scott and Jason Day.</p>

PORTRUSH, NORTHERN IRELAND - JULY 18: Collin Morikawa of the United States walks on the 16th hole during day two of The 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush Golf Club on July 18, 2025 in Portrush, Northern Ireland.

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Morikawa, Koepka, Niemann among notables to miss cut at Portrush

Death, taxes, and Scottie Scheffler sitting at the top of a leaderboard in a major championship. ...

<p>Death, taxes, and Scottie Scheffler sitting at the top of a leaderboard in a major championship.</p><p>Few things in life are certain, but Scheffler proved again Friday he's one of them with a sizzling 64 at Royal Portrush to hold the solo 36-hole lead over Matt Fitzpatrick at the Open Championship. The round is Scheffler's lowest of his major championship career, and his eight birdies on the day match his record in a major.</p><p>Battling through heavy rain for portions of the back nine, Scheffler passed Fitzpatrick, Brian Harman, and Haotong Li with birdies on two of his final three holes. Tyrrell Hatton and Robert MacIntyre headline the group tied for fifth, while Rory McIlroy and Xander Schauffele are in a pack seven shots off the pace at 3-under.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Place</th>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Round 2 score</th>
<th>Total to par</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>Scottie Scheffler</td>
<td>64</td>
<td>-10</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>Matt Fitzpatrick</td>
<td>66</td>
<td>-9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-3</td>
<td>Brian Harman</td>
<td>65</td>
<td>-8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-3</td>
<td>Haotong Li</td>
<td>67</td>
<td>-8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-5</td>
<td>Rasmus Hojgaard</td>
<td>68</td>
<td>-5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-5</td>
<td>Robert MacIntyre</td>
<td>66</td>
<td>-5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-5</td>
<td>Tyrrell Hatton</td>
<td>69</td>
<td>-5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-5</td>
<td>Chris Gotterup</td>
<td>65</td>
<td>-5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-10</td>
<td>Tony Finau</td>
<td>68</td>
<td>-4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-10</td>
<td>Nicolai Hojgaard</td>
<td>69</td>
<td>-4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-12</td>
<td>Rory McIlroy</td>
<td>69</td>
<td>-3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-12</td>
<td>Keegan Bradley</td>
<td>67</td>
<td>-3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-12</td>
<td>Lee Westwood</td>
<td>70</td>
<td>-3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-12</td>
<td>Sam Burns</td>
<td>69</td>
<td>-3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-12</td>
<td>Jordan Smith</td>
<td>68</td>
<td>-3</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The performance was vintage Scheffler right from the start. The World No. 1 sent a warning shot to the rest of the field by converting a birdie on the first hole before adding three more over the next six.</p><p>Most of the golfing world knows that Scheffler is the favorite to win even if he turns in an average putting performance, but his comfort on the greens led to his results Friday. He finished his round leading the tournament in putting, a strong stat made even more impressive by the fact that he's also leading in approach.</p><p>Fitzpatrick, one of five co-leaders after Round 1, made his push a few groups ahead of Scheffler and will chase his second career major from the final group Saturday alongside the American. While the Englishman has struggled over the past two seasons, he's again flashing the all-around form that led him to the 2022 U.S. Open title.</p><p>The same can be said for Harman, the 2023 Open champion. He flashed his vast arsenal of shots for links golf Friday, hunting flagsticks all day en route to a 6-under 65. Harman displayed the same control over his golf ball that we saw over four days during his win at Royal Liverpool two years ago, and he should be considered a serious threat to keep Scheffler nervous this weekend.</p><p>Anyone outside the top three will need a massive effort this week to make a push, with Scheffler nearly impossible to catch on level terms.</p><p>Although McIlroy is likely the headliner among the candidates who could close the gap, the five-time major winner didn't make up enough ground Friday to be considered a serious contender. McIlroy gave himself plenty of birdie looks in the second round but could only muster a 2-under 69 and is seven back.</p>

Antrim , United Kingdom - 18 July 2025; Scottie Scheffler of USA reacts after a birdie putt on the sixth green during day two of The 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush Golf Club in Portrush, Antrim.

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Scheffler charges to top with scorching 64 at The Open

Hopefully, Bryson DeChambeau didn't make travel plans for Friday night after his opening-round 78...

<p>Hopefully, Bryson DeChambeau didn't make travel plans for Friday night after his opening-round 78 at Royal Portrush.</p><p>The two-time major winner rebounded from his dismal start to The Open with a sizzling 6-under 65 in Round 2, flying up the leaderboard and appearing safe to make the cut at the season's final major.</p><p>Birdies were the key difference in DeChambeau's 13-shot improvement after he failed to make one in Round 1 for just the second time in his major career. He poured in seven birdies Friday, making history along the way.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Bryson DeChambeau went without a birdie in round one, then made 7 of them today.<br><br>He is the first player since Camilo Villegas in 2008 to go without a birdie or better in round 1 of the Open then make 7 or more in round 2.</p>— Justin Ray (@JustinRayGolf) <a href="https://twitter.com/JustinRayGolf/status/1946214423149920513?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>What changed in DeChambeau's play overnight? Not much, according to the LIV Golf star.</p><p>"I've played the same as I did yesterday. That's links golf for you," DeChambeau <a href="http://blob:https://media.theopen.com/aa906e39-30c5-4828-9e7e-4e5d9137efb7">told reporters</a>. "I executed pretty much the same shots as I did yesterday. I didn't feel like I played any different. Today, they just kind of went more my way. My wedges were just a fraction better, and that was really it. Made a couple more putts. Just really felt like I was rolling it well today. There wasn't much different. That's why links golf is the way links golf is."</p><p>Although DeChambeau didn't point to one area of improvement to get him back on track, his irons were significantly better in his second time around Portrush. After ranking 147th in approach play Thursday, DeChambeau sat first in the field for Round 2.</p><p>While there's no question DeChambeau has become one of the world's best golfers, his scientific approach to the game can lead him astray in the unpredictable environments of links golf in the United Kingdom and Ireland. For someone who hits the ball as high and as far as DeChambeau, gearing down and controlling the flight can be challenging - something he doesn't need to worry about most of the season.</p><p>"To be a complete golfer, you've got to win over here. That's something I've struggled to do," DeChambeau said. "I've played well at times when it's dry and greens are more consistent in their bounce, and the greens are a little bit better. But when it gets as chaotic as this, with the wind going every which way, flipping on 18 completely, when you're preparing all day for that left-to-right wind off 18, you have to be a complete golfer that pivots on demand."</p><p>DeChambeau will enter Saturday sitting at least nine shots off the lead with a host of top players ahead of him. However, Friday's performance should boost his confidence and springboard further improved play on links setups moving forward.</p>

PORTRUSH, NORTHERN IRELAND - JULY 18: Bryson DeChambeau of the United States acknowledges the crowd on the 18th green during day two of The 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush Golf Club on July 18, 2025 in Portrush, Northern Ireland.

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Bryson improves by 13 shots in Round 2: 'That's links golf'

Matt Fitzpatrick headlines a group of five golfers at the top of the Open Championship leaderboar...

<p>Matt Fitzpatrick headlines a group of five golfers at the top of the Open Championship leaderboard, but it's Scottie Scheffler, just one shot off the lead, who will grab everyone's attention at Royal Portrush.</p><p>Fitzpatrick matched Jacob Skov Olesen, Haotong Li, Harris English, and Christiaan Bezuidenhout with a 4-under 67 to set the early pace in Northern Ireland. Scheffler's morning round of 3-under 68 held up to leave him tied for sixth and keeps him as the betting favorite to win his fourth career major title.</p><p>Tyrrell Hatton is tied with Scheffler, one stroke clear of a large group that includes veterans Justin Rose, Lee Westwood, and Rickie Fowler. Local favorites Shane Lowry and Rory McIlroy fired 1-under 70s to sit tied for 20th, joined in that pack by notable names such as Jon Rahm, Phil Mickelson, and Sergio Garcia.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Place</th>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Round 1 score</th>
<th>Total to par</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>T-1</td>
<td>Matt Fitzpatrick</td>
<td>67</td>
<td>-4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-1</td>
<td>Jacob Skov Olesen</td>
<td>67</td>
<td>-4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-1</td>
<td>Haotong Li</td>
<td>67</td>
<td>-4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-1</td>
<td>Christiaan Bezuidenhout</td>
<td>67</td>
<td>-4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-1</td>
<td>Harris English</td>
<td>67</td>
<td>-4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-6</td>
<td>Scottie Scheffler</td>
<td>68</td>
<td>-3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-6</td>
<td>Matthew Jordan</td>
<td>68</td>
<td>-3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-6</td>
<td>Tyrrell Hatton</td>
<td>68</td>
<td>-3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-6</td>
<td>Sadom Kaewkanjana</td>
<td>68</td>
<td>-3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-10</td>
<td>Nicolai Hojgaard</td>
<td>69</td>
<td>-2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-10</td>
<td>Rasmus Hojgaard</td>
<td>69</td>
<td>-2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-10</td>
<td>Rickie Fowler</td>
<td>69</td>
<td>-2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-10</td>
<td>Lee Westwood</td>
<td>69</td>
<td>-2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-10</td>
<td>Aaron Rai</td>
<td>69</td>
<td>-2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-10</td>
<td>Justin Rose</td>
<td>69</td>
<td>-2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-10</td>
<td>Maverick McNealy</td>
<td>69</td>
<td>-2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-10</td>
<td>Brian Harman</td>
<td>69</td>
<td>-2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-10</td>
<td>Lucas Glover</td>
<td>69</td>
<td>-2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-10</td>
<td>Tom Kim</td>
<td>69</td>
<td>-2</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The iconic Royal Portrush provided a challenging test for the field on Day 1, with rain hitting the course intermittently throughout the round. English was the only man among the leaders to play in the late afternoon wave, reaching 5-under at one point before a late bogey dropped him into the tie at the top.</p><p>The round was certainly encouraging for Fitzpatrick, as the Englishman looks to make a late push for the Ryder Cup team in September. The 2022 U.S. Open champion has struggled over the past two years but has been building off a T-8 finish at the PGA Championship in May. His round was highlighted by an incredible pitch that dunked in the cup on the treacherous 16th hole.</p><p>The other four golfers at the top are without a major championship victory, with English the class of that group. The veteran American already has two top-12 major finishes this year, including a runner-up at Quail Hollow.</p><p>Scheffler showed his brilliant approach play throughout the round, hitting only three fairways on the day. Despite facing plenty of challenges from the rough, the World No. 1 still managed to card five birdies. He sits in a prime position to make a run at grabbing the third leg of his career Grand Slam and likely cementing himself as the Player of the Year despite McIlroy's victories at the Players and the Masters.</p><p>McIlroy's first round at his home Open on Thursday went significantly better than his 79 in 2019, as the 36-year-old posted a 1-under 70 in the challenging afternoon wave. Like Scheffler, McIlroy struggled mightily off the tee in hitting just two fairways but also used strong approach play to score.</p><p>He's back out in Friday's morning wave and will look to narrow the gap heading to the weekend.</p><p>Many top names will need a low round Friday to make the cut, including Brooks Koepka, Collin Morikawa, and Bryson DeChambeau.</p><p>Koepka started in fine form but made six bogeys over his final 10 holes to fall to 4-over. Morikawa made just one birdie on the day, with the issues from last week's missed cut in Scotland still prevalent. DeChambeau's career-long issues at The Open continued in Round 1, as the two-time U.S. Open winner fell back with a 7-over 78.</p>

PORTRUSH, NORTHERN IRELAND - JULY 17: Matt Fitzpatrick of England acknowledges the crowd on the 18th green during day one of The 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush Golf Club on July 17, 2025 in Portrush, Northern Ireland.

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Fitzpatrick headlines leaders with Scheffler threatening at The Open

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Dane Belbeck

Supervising Editor

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