Kentucky hired Oregon offensive coordinator Will Stein as its next head coach, the program announ...

<p>Kentucky hired Oregon offensive coordinator Will Stein as its next head coach, the program announced Monday.</p><p>The Wildcats are giving Stein a five-year contract, sources told <a href="https://x.com/PeteThamel/status/1995709950497022254?s=20">ESPN's Pete Thamel</a>.</p><p>Stein will replace Mark Stoops, who was fired earlier Monday by Kentucky after 13 seasons. Stein is expected to still call Oregon's offense during the College Football Playoff, <a href="https://x.com/PeteThamel/status/1995651447992758675?s=20">Thamel</a> adds.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>A Kentucky native, Stein has garnered a positive reputation for his work as a play-caller with the 11-1 Ducks, averaging 38.2 points per game this season.</p><p>Stein's been Oregon's offensive coordinator since 2023. His unit averaged 44.2 points per game in his first season, and 34.9 points per contest in his second campaign.</p><p>Scoring has been a major issue for Kentucky. Under Stoops in 2025, the program ranked 102nd in the nation in points scored (23 PPG) as it stumbled to a 5-7 record.</p><p>Stein will have big shoes to fill, as Stoops recorded an 82-80 record with Kentucky, and was the winningest football coach in the school's history.</p>

EUGENE, OREGON - APRIL 26: Offensive Coordinator Will Stein of the Oregon Ducks looks on during the Oregon spring game at Autzen Stadium on April 26, 2025 in Eugene, Oregon.

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Kentucky hires Oregon OC Stein as next coach

Lane Kiffin believes the opportunity to coach LSU was too good to pass up, calling it "the best j...

<p>Lane Kiffin believes the opportunity to coach LSU was too good to pass up, calling it "the best job in football" and he <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iA9SKQ5v9A8">says</a> the biggest priority is making sure LSU takes its place back as "the best program in all of college football."</p><p>"Having watched this place for a long time, having been on the other sidelines in this stadium, this place is different and that's why we're here," Kiffin <a href="https://x.com/SECNetwork/status/1995617396132814935?s=20">said</a> at his introductory press conference Monday.</p><p>Kiffin announced he was joining LSU on Sunday, ending the sweepstakes for the services of the now former Ole Miss coach. He called the decision to leave the Rebels "extremely difficult." Kiffin wanted to continue coaching Ole Miss throughout the playoffs, but the school denied his request. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"We tried every single thing possible to continue to coach the team through the playoffs and to continue to coach the players," Kiffin explained. "In the end, that was their decision and I totally respect that."</p><p>He added: "The last six years of my life have been the best six years of my life. I owe that to the players, all the assistant coaches, and people of Oxford."</p><p>Kiffin succeeds Brian Kelly, who was fired by LSU earlier this season after starting 5-3 this year. Kelly's tenure was remembered for its disappointing results with at least three losses in each of his four seasons and a buyout of roughly $54 million.</p><p>Kiffin shared his excitement for trying to do what Kelly couldn't. So much so that he channeled his inner Ed Orgeron, who gave LSU its most recent national championship.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">"This place makes me want to talk like you right now" 🤣<br><br>Lane Kiffin shares funny moment of how being at LSU makes him want to channel his inner Ed Orgeron <a href="https://t.co/CT5ftLEvIU">pic.twitter.com/CT5ftLEvIU</a></p>— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) <a href="https://twitter.com/CFBONFOX/status/1995635103461192065?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 1, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>LSU <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3415450" href="https://thescore.com/news/3415450">reportedly</a> gave Kiffin a seven-year, $91-million contract, though the coach says money did not play a factor in his move.</p><p>"I'm never going to make a decision on money and I'm telling you right now, I don't know what my contract is here. That's not very financially responsible," Kiffin said to laughs from the audience. "I'm sure it's really good. I don't know what it is."</p>

BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA - DECEMBER 01: Lane Kiffin speaks at a press conference as he is introduced as the new head football coach of the LSU Tigers at Tiger Stadium on December 01, 2025 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

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Kiffin aims to make LSU 'best program' in college football

Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert will undergo surgery Monday to repair a fracture ...

<p>Los Angeles Chargers quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/104207" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/104207">Justin Herbert</a> will undergo surgery Monday to repair a fracture in his non-throwing hand, head coach Jim Harbaugh announced Sunday, according to <a href="https://x.com/krisrhim1/status/1995293200475701441">Kris Rhim of ESPN</a>.</p><p>Harbaugh added that he's unsure if Herbert will miss time due to the procedure.</p><p>"I'm treating it as if I'm playing Monday," Herbert said postgame, according to <a href="https://x.com/danielrpopper/status/1995299402702106887">Daniel Popper of The Athletic</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Herbert briefly exited to the locker room after injuring his left hand during Sunday's game. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161664" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161664">Trey Lance</a> entered as his replacement but Herbert finished the 31-14 win over the Las Vegas Raiders.</p><p>The Chargers' next game will be against the defending Super Bowl champions as they welcome the Philadelphia Eagles on Monday Night Football. Los Angeles will then finish the year with games against the Kansas City Chiefs, Dallas Cowboys, Houston Texans, and Denver Broncos.</p><p>Lance would be expected to start if Herbert is unable to go.</p><p>Herbert has led the Chargers to an 8-4 record this season. He's thrown 21 touchdowns and 10 interceptions.</p>

Inglewood, CA - November 30: Quarterback Justin Herbert #10 of the Los Angeles Chargers passes against the Las Vegas Raiders in the second half of an NFL football game at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood on Sunday, November 30, 2025.

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Herbert to have surgery on left hand, could miss time

For the first time since 2010, Formula 1 will have a season finale where at least three drivers s...

<p>For the first time since 2010, Formula 1 will have a season finale where at least three drivers still have a chance to win the championship. </p><p>While momentum is on Max Verstappen's side, Lando Norris enters with a healthy 12-point advantage over the Red Bull driver while Oscar Piastri faces a 16-point deficit to his McLaren teammate. Norris also enjoys a minor advantage that ensures he'll win the title in the unlikely scenario he finishes tied with another contender in both points and wins. That's due to Norris having more second-place finishes than Verstappen and Piastri.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Driver</th>
<th>Points</th>
<th>Wins</th>
<th>2nd-place finishes</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Lando Norris</td>
<td> 408</td>
<td> 7</td>
<td> 8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Max Verstappen</td>
<td> 396</td>
<td> 7</td>
<td> 5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Oscar Piastri</td>
<td> 392</td>
<td> 7</td>
<td> 4</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Below are all the scenarios for Abu Dhabi that would see either Norris, Verstappen, or Piastri crowned world champion.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>Here's how Norris becomes champion in Abu Dhabi:</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Norris</th>
<th>Verstappen</th>
<th>Piastri</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1st</td>
<td> Doesn't matter</td>
<td> Doesn't matter</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2nd</td>
<td> Doesn't matter</td>
<td> Doesn't matter</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3rd</td>
<td> Doesn't matter</td>
<td> Doesn't matter</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4th</td>
<td> Not 1st</td>
<td> Doesn't matter</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5th</td>
<td> Not 1st</td>
<td> Doesn't matter</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6th</td>
<td> Not 1st</td>
<td> Not 1st</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7th</td>
<td> Not 1st</td>
<td> Not 1st</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8th</td>
<td> 3rd or worse</td>
<td> Not 1st</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9th</td>
<td> 4th or worse</td>
<td> Not 1st</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10th</td>
<td> 4th or worse</td>
<td> 3rd or worse</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Out of the points</td>
<td> 4th or worse</td>
<td> 3rd or worse</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>Here's how Verstappen retains his championship in Abu Dhabi:</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Verstappen</th>
<th>Norris</th>
<th>Piastri</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1st</td>
<td> 4th or worse</td>
<td> Doesn't matter</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2nd</td>
<td> 8th or worse</td>
<td> Not 1st</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3rd</td>
<td> 9th or worse</td>
<td> Not 1st</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>Here's how Piastri becomes champion in Abu Dhabi:</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Piastri</th>
<th>Norris</th>
<th>Verstappen</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1st</td>
<td> 6th or worse</td>
<td> Doesn't matter</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2nd</td>
<td> 10th or worse</td>
<td> 4th or worse</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The championship will be decided next weekend, with the Abu Dhabi GP schedule to begin Sunday, Dec. 7 at 8 a.m. ET.</p>

Pole position qualifier Red Bull's Dutch driver Max Verstappen C, second-placed McLaren's British driver Lando Norris L and third-placed McLaren's Australian driver Oscar Piastri pose after the qualifying session of the Formula 1 Italian Grand Prix at Monza Circuit, near Milan, Italy, on Sept. 6, 2025.

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Abu Dhabi cheat sheet: How Norris, Verstappen, Piastri can win title

Auburn is hiring South Florida's Alex Golesh to be its next head coach, the program announced Sun...

<p>Auburn is hiring South Florida's Alex Golesh to be its next head coach, the program announced Sunday.</p><p>“He has produced wins and record-setting results throughout his entire career, including over the last three seasons at USF," athletic director John Cohen said in a statement. "Alex is known nationally for his player development prowess, ability to shape creative and explosive offenses, and his relentless approach to building winning programs. I was also struck by his coaching experience on both sides of the ball. In our conversations, he showed the determination and edge that this program demands of its head coach. I want to welcome Alex, his wife Alexis and children Corbin and Barrett to the Auburn family."</p><p>Golesh will put pen to paper on a six-year contract with Auburn, sources told <a href="https://x.com/PeteThamel/status/1995159590598746437?s=20">ESPN's Pete Thamel</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Tigers had been searching for a new full-time coach since firing Hugh Freeze earlier in November. Defensive coordinator DJ Durkin has been serving as the interim coach.</p><p>Golesh went 23-15 over three seasons with the Bulls. His 2025 campaign was his best in Tampa with a 9-3 record.</p><p>Auburn holds a 5-7 record this season, including a 1-7 mark in the conference.</p><p>The Tigers have not won more than six games since 2019.</p>

DENTON, TX - OCTOBER 10: South Florida Bulls head coach Alex Golesh walks along the sidelines during the game between the North Texas Mean Green and the South Florida Bulls on October 10, 2025 at DATCU Stadium in Denton, Texas.

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Auburn hires USF's Golesh as head coach

San Antonio Spurs guard Dylan Harper came off the bench Wednesday against the Portland Trail Blaz...

<p>San Antonio Spurs guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/171821" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/171821">Dylan Harper</a> came off the bench Wednesday against the Portland Trail Blazers following a 10-game absence due to a left calf strain.</p><p>Harper, the No. 2 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, said Wednesday that while he didn't want to miss time, the team was focused on the "long run," according to <a href="https://www.expressnews.com/sports/spurs/article/spurs-dylan-harper-cleared-return-portland-21210024.php">Jeff McDonald of the San Antonio Express-News</a>.</p><p>He sustained the injury on Nov. 2 while trying to defend a shot from the Phoenix Suns' Nick Richards.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Harper was averaging 14 points and 3.8 assists per game prior to the injury.</p><p>The Spurs are off to an 11-5 start. </p>

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - NOVEMBER 02: Dylan Harper #2 of the San Antonio Spurs dribbles the ball during the first half against the Phoenix Suns at Mortgage Matchup Center on November 02, 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Suns defeated the Spurs 130-118.

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Spurs' Harper comes off bench in return vs. Trail Blazers

Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase apologized to his team, fans, the Pittsburgh Steel...

<p>Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161655" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161655">Ja'Marr Chase</a> apologized to his team, fans, the Pittsburgh Steelers, and the NFL for spitting on defensive back Jalen Ramsey, which led to a one-game suspension.</p><p>"What I did was wrong," Chase posted on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DRc-O1iCZw8/?igsh=MTB0NmF6YjhiaTh0Zg%3D%3D">Instagram</a>. "The circumstances don't matter. My passion for the game is no excuse. There's zero place in our sport - or in life - for that level of disrespect. I want to personally apologize to everyone within the Pittsburgh Steelers organization. I let my emotions in the moment get the better of me. I can only hope and trust you know none of it represents who I am - not as a competitor, teammate, or person.</p><p>"I also want to apologize to my coaches, teammates, and organization for not meeting my own standards as a leader of this team. This has been a tough season with some incredibly hard losses. We've all been frustrated. But instead of stepping up with calm, class, and leadership, I let you down. My having to sit out yesterday's game makes my actions even more inexcusable."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Chase also pledged that a similar incident won't happen in the future. He closed his statement with a promise to "keep learning from this and to set a higher standard for myself moving forward."</p><p>The wideout didn't mention Ramsey by name in his apology.</p><p>Ramsey was ejected from the Week 11 contest for swinging at Chase following a confrontation. He said postgame that the Bengals star spit on him, which Chase denied. Video evidence later showed that Chase did, in fact, spit on Ramsey beforehand.</p><p>The four-time Pro Bowler was forced to miss Sunday's loss to the New England Patriots after his suspension was upheld following an appeal. The defeat dropped the Cincinnati to 3-8.</p><p>Chase, who has 79 catches for 861 receiving yards this season, will return for Thursday's meeting with the Baltimore Ravens. He's expected to be joined by quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97638" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97638">Joe Burrow</a>, who has been sidelined the past nine games due to a toe injury.</p>

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - NOVEMBER 16: Ja'Marr Chase #1 of the Cincinnati Bengals stretches during an NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium on November 16, 2025 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

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Bengals' Chase apologizes for spitting on Steelers' Ramsey

The Cleveland Browns are sticking with quarterback Shedeur Sanders as their starter for Sunday's ...

<p>The Cleveland Browns are sticking with quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/210099" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/210099">Shedeur Sanders</a> as their starter for Sunday's game against the San Francisco 49ers, head coach Kevin Stefanski <a href="https://x.com/Browns/status/1993024920016589210?s=20">announced</a> Monday.</p><p>Previous starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/209984" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209984">Dillon Gabriel</a> has exited the concussion protocol, though the Browns are moving ahead with Sanders, who won his first start against the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday.</p><p>Sanders finished with 11 completions on 20 attempts for 209 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. He <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3407619" href="https://thescore.com/news/3407619">said</a> postgame: "A lot of people want to see me fail and it ain't going to happen."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The son of NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders was thrown into game action for the first time when Gabriel exited Week 11's matchup against the Baltimore Ravens with a concussion. Shedeur had never previously practiced or played with the first-team offense and struggled to the tune of four completions and an interception on 16 attempts.</p><p>Stefanski said he's eager to see Sanders' progress.</p><p>"Number one job of a quarterback is to win, so (I'm) excited to get that first win under his belt," Stefanski said. "Next thing is improvement, and that's what young players do, certainly, young quarterbacks do. You get one game better and that's just from working at it."</p><p>A fifth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft after a shocking slide, Sanders started the preseason as the fourth passer on the Browns' depth chart before climbing his way up. </p><p>Cleveland is 3-8, tied with the Cincinnati Bengals for the worst record in the AFC North.</p>

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - NOVEMBER 23: Shedeur Sanders #12 of the Cleveland Browns stands on the sidelines during the national anthem prior to an NFL football game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium on November 23, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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Shedeur to remain starter as Gabriel exits concussion protocol

Cincinnati Bengals head coach Zac Taylor said Monday that he anticipates Joe Burrow will return f...

<p>Cincinnati Bengals head coach Zac Taylor said Monday that he anticipates <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97638" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97638">Joe Burrow</a> will return for Thursday night's divisional matchup against the Baltimore Ravens, according to <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/1993017582249820200">NFL Network's Ian Rapoport</a>.</p><p>The quarterback has missed the last nine games after suffering a turf toe injury in Week 2 that required surgery. Returning Thursday would put him ahead of the initially reported three-month recovery timeline.</p><p>Burrow will be reunited with wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161655" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161655">Ja'Marr Chase</a>, who missed the team's last game as he served a suspension for spitting on Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/74546" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/74546">Jalen Ramsey</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>However, the Bengals will not have wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/115870" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/115870">Tee Higgins</a> on Thursday due to a concussion, and pass-rusher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/72083" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/72083">Trey Hendrickson</a> remains sidelined with a hip issue.</p><p>The Bengals lost eight of the nine games that Burrow missed. At 3-8, Cincinnati faces a steep climb to potentially reach the postseason. The 6-5 Ravens share the top spot in the AFC North with the Steelers.</p>

CINCINNATI, CA - SEPTEMBER 14: Joe Burrow #9 of the Cincinnati Bengals throws the ball prior to an NFL game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Paycor Stadium on September 14, 2025 in Cincinnati, Ohio.

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Burrow expected to return vs. Ravens on Thursday

Max Verstappen entered Las Vegas facing possible elimination in the drivers' championship but exi...

<p>Max Verstappen entered Las Vegas facing possible elimination in the drivers' championship but exited with renewed hopes of winning a fifth straight title after stewards shockingly <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3406651" href="https://thescore.com/news/3406651">disqualified</a> both McLaren cars for excessive skid wear.</p><p>Once trailing then-championship leader Oscar Piastri by 104 points after the Dutch Grand Prix in August, Verstappen is now even with the Australian in the standings and behind Lando Norris by only 24 points for the top spot.</p><p>The ball is still very much in Norris' court, with the McLaren pilot needing to outscore Piastri and Verstappen by just two points each at the upcoming Qatar Grand Prix to seal the deal. However, there's blood in the water for Verstappen, as he sniffs an improbable comeback for the ages.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Below are a handful of scenarios in which Verstappen could be crowned world champion. One objective in crafting these potential outcomes was to avoid situations where Piastri finished one position ahead of Norris in the season finale, since that would likely prompt a team-order swap.</p><p><strong>Scenario 1 -</strong> Verstappen wins the last two races and the sprint, while Norris places second and sixth in the races and second in the sprint.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-XAmBX" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/XAmBX/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="161" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><strong>Scenario 2 - </strong>Verstappen wins the last two races and the sprint, while Norris finishes third and fourth in the races and second in the sprint.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-GfpPs" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/GfpPs/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="161" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Verstappen would win on countback in this scenario due to having more wins (8) than Norris (7).</p><p><strong>Scenario 3 - </strong>Verstappen wins the last two races and the sprint, while Norris places second and fifth in the races and third in the sprint.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-1fO2r" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/1fO2r/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="158" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Verstappen would win on countback in this scenario due to having more wins (8) than Norris (7).</p><p><strong>Scenario 4 - </strong>Verstappen wins the last two races and the sprint, while Norris scores zero points in at least one more race.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-eytEG" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/eytEG/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="161" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><strong>Scenario 5 - </strong>Verstappen wins the last two races, while Norris wins the sprint and finishes second and seventh in the races.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-QGYWp" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/QGYWp/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="161" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure>

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - NOVEMBER 22: Race winner Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing celebrates on arrival in parc ferme during the F1 Grand Prix of Las Vegas at Las Vegas Strip Circuit on November 22, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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How can Verstappen still win the drivers' championship?

The 2026 season will bring new regulations that are expected to completely change the look of For...

<p>The 2026 season will bring new regulations that are expected to completely change the look of Formula 1. Some differences will be tough to grasp - even slightly confusing - but Williams pilot Alex Albon says the most adaptable drivers and teams will be the ones who prosper.</p><p>"In terms of driving style and car setup philosophy, if I'm talking purely car related, you do actually have to stay open-minded because it's going to be different," Albon told theScore before the Sao Paulo Grand Prix. "It's going to be confusing at times. It's going to be a new understanding of how to extract lap time in the car. So, you've got to humble yourself a little bit, recenter yourself, and stay open to the changes."</p><p>The impending changes are some of the most radical that F1 has seen in quite some time. In addition to lighter and smaller cars, power units will be equally split between electric power and the internal combustion engine. The drag reduction system (DRS) will say goodbye to make way for a new manual override mode. If that sounds like a lot of change happening at once, it's because it is.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>But every moment of change also breeds opportunity.</p><p>"I think that the drivers that will perform best and the team that will perform best are the ones that are really adaptable and can deal with all these new changes," Albon said.</p><p>The new regulations will wipe clean the advantages McLaren and Red Bull have baked in. For teams like Williams, this is its biggest chance to make its intended leap to the front, even if it means turning the taps off early for development of its impressive FW47 car.</p><p>"I'm totally on board with (pivoting to 2026)," Albon explained. "The first year of a regulation change is so important to get right, and it leaves you years behind if you don't shift yourself early enough. So, we're looking as a team to be a podium finisher and an eventual race winner, and you're not going to do that by finalizing this year and expecting performance at the end of this year."</p><p>Don't be fooled though. Williams isn't banking solely on winning the rule change lottery or the potential for Mercedes - its power unit supplier - to ace another engine regulation change.</p><p>"I think Mercedes are pretty confident with their package," Albon said. "We've seen Mercedes dominate in previous years on a regulation change. I don't think it would be at that level of domination. You never know, but let's just say, we're focused on ourselves, and we've got to extract our car as best as we can. Even if the Mercedes car is the best engine on the grid, we still have a lot of Mercedes-powered teams on the grid as well."</p><p>Williams' optimism stems from its adaptability and growth. After all, no team on the grid has undergone a bigger transformation over the last four seasons. From placing last in the championship to Albon's arrival in 2022, Williams is now on course for its first top-five finish in the constructors' standings since 2017, while its 111 points are the team's most since 2016.</p><p>The secret formula that Williams <a href="https://www.thescore.com/formula1/news/3098335">believes</a> could soon put it on track to fight at the front is simple, according to Albon, and has much to do with another outsider in James Vowles, who joined the squad the year after his own arrival.</p><p>"It's the culture within the team," Albon revealed. "I think culture is the biggest single factor that can influence a team's performance. I don't think there's any individual that's bigger than the culture of a team. I think that's testament to James in the most part, turning around the mindset of the team.</p><p>"The approach that we have to race weekends, the open-mindedness, the accountability - these kinds of areas have been worked on. They're not created overnight, and they've been instilled within the team over a lot of James' leadership."</p><p>Albon continued: "I often compare it to my time at Red Bull and when I came to Williams for the first time, and I remember the team was maybe a little bit stuck in their old ways, a little bit negative in many ways, and maybe didn't quite have the open-mindedness that I expected or wanted at the time. But then I look at when Carlos (Sainz) joined, and he came from kind of a similar place, coming from Ferrari, and the shift in terms of, 'Okay, what do we have to do to get better?' That kind of hunger and that drive, it was amazing. It was something which I was really impressed by."</p><p>It will be a few months until the paddock can tell who has coped best with the 2026 regulations. But until the pecking order is revealed on the track, Albon and Williams believe that they have the ingredients in place to adapt as smoothly as anyone else.</p>

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Albon sees opportunity for adaptable Williams with 2026 regulations

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. will have season-ending surgery to repair a partial...

<p>Atlanta Falcons quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199749" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199749">Michael Penix Jr.</a> will have season-ending surgery to repair a partially torn ACL, the team announced Wednesday. </p><p>Penix faces at least nine months of recovery, according to <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/1991178586972106985">NFL Network's Ian Rapoport</a>. That timeline would put his return around mid-August at the earliest, just before the 2026 campaign kicks off.</p><p>Penix sustained the injury in his left knee, the same location where he suffered a bone bruise that sidelined him earlier in the year.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>While this will be Penix's third ACL surgery, the previous two were to his right knee. He tore his right ACL as a freshman at Indiana in 2018 and then again in 2020.</p><p>"The guy is going to come back stronger for us," head coach Raheem Morris <a href="https://x.com/AtlantaFalcons/status/1991191963652255853?s=20">said</a> Wednesday. "This organization believes in him. His coaches believe in him. His guys believe in him."</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/14947" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/14947">Kirk Cousins</a> will finish the remainder of the season as the Falcons' starting quarterback, with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/85450" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/85450">Easton Stick</a> expected to back him up. Cousins is 0-1 as a starter in 2025, but he went 7-7 across 14 starts for Atlanta last year.</p><p>This season was the first time Penix opened a campaign as the Falcons' starting quarterback. The 2024 eighth overall pick also started the final three games of his rookie year.</p><p>Penix threw for nine touchdowns to three interceptions this season, guiding Atlanta to a 3-6 record. The team sits at 3-7 overall.</p>

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - OCTOBER 13: Michael Penix Jr. #9 of the Atlanta Falcons reacts during the fourth quarter against the Buffalo Bills at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on October 13, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia.

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Falcons' Penix to have surgery on partially torn ACL

Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders will make his first NFL start Sunday against ...

<p>Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/210099" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/210099">Shedeur Sanders</a> will make his first NFL start Sunday against the Las Vegas Raiders, head coach Kevin Stefanski announced Wednesday.</p><p>The 23-year-old gets the nod with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/209984" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209984">Dillon Gabriel</a> still in concussion protocol.</p><p>Sanders, son of NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, made his NFL regular-season debut during last Sunday's 23-16 loss to the Baltimore Ravens after Gabriel suffered the injury. He struggled in relief, completing four of his 16 pass attempts for no touchdowns and one interception.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The loss to the Ravens was the first time Sanders worked with the starting offense, but he'll practice with the first-team unit ahead of Sunday's game. The rookie said he feels confident about the opportunity ahead.</p><p>"I know our fans have a lot of expectation and hope," Sanders said after officially getting the starting nod, according to <a href="https://x.com/DanielOyefusi/status/1991198593454100664">ESPN's Daniel Oyefusi</a>. "I would be doing a disservice to myself and a disservice to the organization if I didn't feel like I am the guy. I did everything I need to. I'm doing everything I need to prepare to be the best version of myself that's possible."</p><p>Sanders added: "I like pressure in life. I'm just excited for everything. I feel like I'm the guy. I know I'm the guy, but you just have to be able to see."</p><p>Once discussed as a potential top choice in the 2025 NFL Draft, Sanders slid to the fifth round before the Browns used the 144th overall pick on the Colorado product. Sanders was the second quarterback selected by Cleveland, with Gabriel drafted in the third round.</p><p>Starting Sunday's game completes a meteoric rise for Sanders since the draft. Initially tabbed as the fourth-string quarterback to open the preseason, Sanders moved up to QB3 once the Browns traded <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/173994" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/173994">Kenny Pickett</a>. Cleveland then bumped him to the primary backup role after dealing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/2945" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/2945">Joe Flacco</a> to the Cincinnati Bengals in October, a move that opened the door for Gabriel to become the starter.</p><p>The Browns are in the midst of another disappointing season, sitting at 2-8 and in last place in the AFC North.</p>

CLEVELAND, OHIO - NOVEMBER 16: Shedeur Sanders #12 of the Cleveland Browns looks to pass during the game against the Baltimore Ravens at Huntington Bank Field on November 16, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio.

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Shedeur to make 1st career start vs. Raiders

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers won't require surgery for his fractured left wrist,...

<p>Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/747" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/747">Aaron Rodgers</a> won't require surgery for his fractured left wrist, head coach Mike Tomlin announced Tuesday.</p><p>Rodgers' status for Sunday's game against the Chicago Bears is uncertain, though he's pushing to play, according to <a href="https://x.com/TomPelissero/status/1990822607235559465">NFL Network's Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport</a>.</p><p>Tomlin also left the door open for Rodgers to suit up.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"It's just about bracing it and securing it for his comfort and safety, and then it's about how functional he is," Tomlin told reporters, per <a href="https://x.com/TomPelissero/status/1990829489228804243">Pelissero</a>.</p><p>The veteran signal-caller suffered the injury during last Sunday's win over the Cincinnati Bengals, causing him to miss the entire second half. </p><p>Rodgers completed 9 of 15 pass attempts for 116 yards and one touchdown before exiting.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/83531" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/83531">Mason Rudolph</a> filled in for Rodgers and would start against the Bears if Rodgers can't play. Rudolph completed 12 of his 16 passes for one touchdown and no interceptions against the Bengals. He's also made 13 starts for the Steelers across his career, compiling an 8-4-1 record.</p><p>The 41-year-old Rodgers has a 6-4 mark this season with 19 touchdowns to seven interceptions.</p><p>Rodgers, who spent the first 18 campaigns of his career with the Green Bay Packers, has a well-documented rivalry against the Bears, his former divisional foe. The clash was on full display in 2021, when Rodgers yelled, "I still own you," after scoring a touchdown in Chicago.</p><p>Pittsburgh has a one-game advantage over the 5-5 Baltimore Ravens in the AFC North. </p>

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - NOVEMBER 16: Aaron Rodgers #8 of the Pittsburgh Steelers looks on during an NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Acrisure Stadium on November 16, 2025 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

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Rodgers won't need surgery, uncertain vs. Bears

The Atlanta Falcons lost two key offensive starters in Sunday's 30-27 overtime loss to the Caroli...

<p>The Atlanta Falcons lost two key offensive starters in Sunday's 30-27 overtime loss to the Carolina Panthers.</p><p>Quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199749" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199749">Michael Penix Jr.</a> is going on injured reserve with a left-knee injury that will sideline him for at least four games, the Falcons announced Monday.</p><p>Atlanta added that it's "working through the medical process to determine the severity" of Penix's issue.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/1990447559098449944">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a> reported earlier Monday that the passer's injury could be season-ending. Although Penix is reportedly seeking a second opinion, early indications aren't encouraging.</p><p>His injury is an aggravation of a bone bruise and knee sprain suffered earlier this campaign, sources told <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/1990472954119950794">NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero</a>. However, there's also apparently damage to Penix's ACL, which could mean a full reconstruction is required.</p><p>Additionally, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/173995" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/173995">Drake London</a> suffered a PCL sprain that will sideline the receiver for at least a week, <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/1990454586553872473">Rapoport</a> adds. The talented wideout made seven catches for 119 yards before the Falcons ruled him out in overtime of Sunday's loss.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/14947" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/14947">Kirk Cousins</a> will take over at quarterback for Atlanta. He replaced Penix versus the Panthers, completing 6 of 14 passes for 48 yards.</p><p>Penix appeared to sustain the injury after getting hit on a third-down pass attempt with 5:22 remaining in the third quarter. The second-year signal-caller tried to stand up but fell back to the ground before taking off his helmet. Penix remained on the sidelines for the rest of the contest and completed 13 of 16 passes for 175 yards before exiting.</p><p>Head coach Raheem Morris said postgame that he didn't have an update regarding Penix's status, per <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/46989995/falcons-michael-penix-jr-exits-right-knee-injury">ESPN's Marc Raimondi</a>.</p><p>Penix missed a contest against the Miami Dolphins in October due to the bone bruise in his left knee. The Washington product has an extensive history of injuries, having undergone four season-ending surgeries in college, including ACL repairs in 2018 and 2020.</p>

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 28: Drake London #5 of the Atlanta Falcons celebrates a touchdown with Michael Penix Jr. #9 of the Atlanta Falcons during the first quarter against the Washington Commanders at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on September 28, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia.

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Penix going on IR; London reportedly out at least a week

Green Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs's knee is structurally sound and won't require surgery...

<p>Green Bay Packers running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/110848" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/110848">Josh Jacobs</a>'s knee is structurally sound and won't require surgery, according to <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/1990466531805782301">NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero</a>.</p><p>Jacobs, who left Sunday's 27-20 win over the New York Giants, is reportedly considered day-to-day, though he may miss the Packers' next contest against the Minnesota Vikings.</p><p>Jacobs' knee bothered him in the first quarter against the Giants, but he managed to return to the game after a brief absence. However, the star tailback walked to the locker early in the second quarter and was ruled out early in the third.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Jacobs carried the ball seven times for 40 yards before exiting the matchup. The 27-year-old entered Sunday with 845 yards and 11 touchdowns from scrimmage this season.</p><p>With Jacobs sidelined against the Giants, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/190204" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/190204">Emanuel Wilson</a> carried the load at running back for the Packers. He finished the day with 40 yards and one touchdown on 11 carries.</p><p>Wilson also scored on a two-point conversion late in the fourth quarter after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174090" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174090">Christian Watson</a> caught a game-winning touchdown that helped Green Bay snap a two-game skid Sunday.</p>

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - NOVEMBER 16: Josh Jacobs #8 of the Green Bay Packers is tackled during the first quarter against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium on November 16, 2025 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

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Report: Jacobs day-to-day with knee injury

Philadelphia Eagles right tackle Lane Johnson is expected to miss four-to-six weeks with a Lisfra...

<p>Philadelphia Eagles right tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/14244" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/14244">Lane Johnson</a> is expected to miss four-to-six weeks with a Lisfranc sprain in his foot, sources told <a href="https://x.com/MikeGarafolo/status/1990459927022735534">NFL Network's Mike Garafolo and Ian Rapoport</a>.</p><p>Johnson suffered the injury during Sunday night's victory over the Detroit Lions. He's reportedly seeking other opinions on the issue and will undergo more tests.</p><p>The Eagles will likely place Johnson on injured reserve, but the belief is that the injury won't end his season, according to <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/1990459925466956180">Rapoport</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Lane Johnson has had a tough season:<br><br>- Week 3 vs Rams: Neck injury<br>- Week 4 at Bucs: Left shoulder injury<br>- Week 10 at Packers: Ankle injury<br>- Week 11 vs Lions: Foot injury<br><br>He hasn't missed any games yet, though, and Fred Johnson has been very good as a fill-in whenever needed.</p>— Jimmy Kempski (@JimmyKempski) <a href="https://twitter.com/JimmyKempski/status/1990450093133304267?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Johnson has been the heart and soul of the Eagles' offensive line since being drafted in the first round in 2013. The 35-year-old has made 168 starts for the franchise, earning six Pro Bowl selections and two First-Team All-Pro nods.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97781" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97781">Fred Johnson</a> is expected to fill in for the injured veteran.</p><p>The 8-2 Eagles are tied with the Los Angeles Rams for the best record in the NFC.</p>

GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN - NOVEMBER 10: Lane Johnson #65 of the Philadelphia Eagles looks on following an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field on November 10, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

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Report: Eagles' Johnson out 4-6 weeks with Lisfranc sprain

Seattle Seahawks linebacker Ernest Jones IV had a strong message for anyone doubting Sam Darnold ...

<p>Seattle Seahawks linebacker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161865" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161865">Ernest Jones IV</a> had a strong message for anyone doubting Sam Darnold after the quarterback threw four interceptions in Sunday's 21-19 loss to the Los Angeles Rams.</p><p>"I mean, Sam's been balling," Jones said. "If we want to try to define Sam by this game, Sam's had us in every f-----g game. So, for him to sit there and say, 'That's my fault,' no, it's not. There was plays that defensively we could have made, opportunities where we could have got better stops. It's football, man. He's our quarterback. We've got his back, and if you've got anything to say, quite frankly, f--k you."</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">You heard him. <a href="https://t.co/4Hdh5roGYt">pic.twitter.com/4Hdh5roGYt</a></p>— Seattle Seahawks (@Seahawks) <a href="https://twitter.com/Seahawks/status/1990241422486929818?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Right tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174073" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174073">Abraham Lucas</a> also came to Darnold's defense postgame.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Listen, I will defend Sam as my teammate and my quarterback," the offensive lineman said, according to team reporter <a href="https://www.seahawks.com/news/seahawks-show-support-for-sam-darnold-after-tough-outing-he-s-our-quarterback-we-ve-got-his-back">John Boyle</a>. "Stats can say whatever they want, not everybody is going to have a perfect game all the time. Sometimes things happen. He's a phenomenal quarterback, and it's impressive that he doesn't let mistakes get to him. I think people can take lessons from him. He's been balling, he's been lights out, and I'm excited to see what he can do moving forward."</p><p>Darnold had his first four-interception game since his infamous 33-0 loss to the New England Patriots in 2019. In that contest, Darnold said on the sideline that he was "seeing ghosts."</p><p>Sunday's loss is the only flaw on a productive 2025 campaign from the veteran quarterback. Darnold entered the game with 17 touchdowns to six interceptions and a 7-2 record.</p><p>"I'll learn from it, watch the tape, grow from it," Darnold said postgame, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/46995273/seahawks-offer-ardent-defense-sam-darnold-4-ints">ESPN's Brady Henderson</a>. "You've got to give credit to the Rams. Obviously, they're a really good defense, a really good team. But I've got to be better, personally."</p><p>Despite Darnold's poor showing, the Seahawks still had a chance to win it late before Jason Myers' attempt at a walk-off 61-yard field goal was no good.</p>

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 16: Sam Darnold #14 of the Seattle Seahawks throws a pass during the first quarter of an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium on November 16, 2025 in Inglewood, California.

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Seahawks rally around Darnold after 4-INT loss: 'We've got his back'

Tennessee Titans wide receiver Calvin Ridley suffered a broken fibula in Sunday's 16-13 loss to t...

<p>Tennessee Titans wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/99606" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/99606">Calvin Ridley</a> suffered a broken fibula in Sunday's 16-13 loss to the Houston Texans and will miss the remainder of the season, head coach Mike McCoy <a href="https://x.com/AtoZSports/status/1990168719352615250?s=20">announced</a> postgame.</p><p>Ridley's injury happened on the Titans' first offensive play. He caught a 13-yard pass from Cam Ward before being tackled and remained down on the field. He was carted to the locker room after trainers examined him.</p><p>Sunday's contest was Ridley's first appearance since a hamstring injury sidelined him for three games.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 30-year-old receiver will finish the season with 17 catches for 303 yards and no touchdowns.</p>

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE - NOVEMBER 16: Calvin Ridley #0 of the Tennessee Titans on the field with an injury during the first quarter against the Houston Texans at Nissan Stadium on November 16, 2025 in Nashville, Tennessee.

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Titans' Ridley out for season with broken fibula

The Detroit Lions will be without Sam LaPorta for at least four games after placing the tight end...

<p>The Detroit Lions will be without <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188193" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188193">Sam LaPorta</a> for at least four games after placing the tight end on injured reserve Saturday.</p><p>LaPorta is dealing with a back injury and was already ruled out for Sunday's game against the Philadelphia Eagles.</p><p>The 24-year-old is second on the team in receiving yards (489) and receptions (40), trailing only <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161926" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161926">Amon-Ra St. Brown</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/162161" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/162161">Brock Wright</a> is slated to step in LaPorta's absence. He's caught nine passes for 71 yards and two touchdowns this season.</p><p>LaPorta has been a key fixture in the Lions' offense since being selected in the second round of the 2023 draft. Over his first two seasons, he put up 1,615 yards and 17 touchdowns on 146 catches. He was named to the Pro Bowl during his rookie campaign.</p><p>The Lions sit 6-3, tied for the best record in the NFC North with the Chicago Bears.</p>

LANDOVER, MD - NOVEMBER 09: Lions tight end Sam LaPorta (87) runs after a catch during the Detroit Lions versus Washington Commanders National Football League game at Northwest Stadium on November 9, 2025 in Landover, MD.

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Lions' LaPorta placed on IR with back injury

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