While Jacobs is cleared to suit up immediately, the legal and disciplinary cloud around him hasn’t fully vanished. The league’s internal investigation remains open under the Personal Conduct Policy, meaning the NFL reserves the right to hand down further discipline or a formal suspension at a later date. However, as long as commissioner Roger Goodell refrains from issuing an immediate suspension this week, Green Bay intends to activate their marquee back for Sunday’s division clash.

The timing could not be better for Head Coach Matt LaFleur’s squad. Green Bay has pushed through a strong 4-2 start to the season relying heavily on Jordan Love and the passing attack. With Jacobs stepping back into the primary rushing role, his physical bell-cow presence elevates Green Bay from an impressive playoff contender into a legitimate Super Bowl favorite in the NFC.

When will Josh Jacobs return?

Josh Jacobs could return in Week 7 game against the Lions. Ian Rapoport’s update provides crucial clarity on Jacobs’ immediate playing status after weeks of uncertainty.

Being placed on the Commissioner Exempt list meant Jacobs was barred from attending team practices and games while his legal matters played out. Now that he is officially off the list, his status reverts back to a normal roster spot, allowing Green Bay full control over his workload.

The main takeaway from Rapoport’s report is simple: if the NFL does not levy a retroactive suspension before Sunday, Jacobs will play against Detroit. Green Bay gains an elite running back who can absorb 15-to-20 carries right out of the gate, while the NFL continues to evaluate whether further fines or missed games are warranted down the road.

Can the Packers win the Super Bowl?

Josh Jacobs could definitely make the Packers a Super Bowl contender. Surviving the first six weeks with a 4-2 record without their primary backfield anchor proved the Packers’ depth and offensive resilience.

However, the lack of a dominant, reliable ground attack forced the offense into predictable passing situations during tight games. Integrating a former NFL rushing champion like Jacobs completely alters Green Bay’s offensive ceiling.

Jacobs commands stacked boxes, instantly creating cleaner single-coverage looks for Jordan Love and the receiving corps. His punishing running style gives the Packers elite short-yardage converted downs and red-zone finishing ability.

Pairing a top-tier running game with a surging defense gives Green Bay the exact formula needed for a deep playoff run. If Jacobs stays on the field without further league interference, the rest of the NFC North just got put on high alert.

Key takeaways

• Josh Jacobs practiced on Wednesday and is expected to play Sunday against the Detroit Lions.
• The NFL removed Jacobs from the Commissioner Exempt list after he sat out the first six weeks of the season.
• The league’s Personal Conduct investigation remains open, leaving the door ajar for potential future discipline, but Jacobs is cleared to play immediately in Week 7.

The Colts extended Taylor just two months ago with a lucrative two-year, $44 million extension—featuring a max value of $47 million—that ties the 27-year-old playmaker to Indianapolis through the end of the 2028 season. Because of that fresh deal and Taylor’s proven elite status, early league reports indicate that Indianapolis would demand at least a second-round pick along with a sixth or seventh-round selection to even consider parting ways with their franchise centerpiece. For Big Blue, giving up premium draft capital for a high-priced running back is a massive gamble, but their current options are wearing dangerously thin.

With New York looking for an immediate spark to turn their season around, trading for an elite bell-cow back like Taylor could instantly revitalize an otherwise stagnant offense. Head coach John Harbaugh’s patience with ball security has hit a breaking point, and the front office appears ready to pivot aggressively. The clock is ticking toward the trade deadline, and the Giants must decide if paying top dollar for Jonathan Taylor is the key to solving their backfield nightmare.

Will the NY Giants trade for RB Jonathan Taylor?

The Giants entered the season hoping for a balanced backfield split between Cam Skattebo and proven veteran Najee Harris. However, that plan disintegrated rapidly. Harris struggled to find rhythm in a crowded rotation and was abruptly released by the team after voicing frustration over his limited snaps.

At the same time, Skattebo’s ball-security issues reached a crisis point. After coughing up four fumbles early in the season, he was benched, leaving the coaching staff reliant on rotational pieces Devin Singletary and Tyrone Tracy. With no runner consistently breaking past the 20-yard mark in recent weeks, acquiring a premier workhorse back has quickly shifted from a luxury to an absolute necessity for New York.

What a Jonathan Taylor trade would cost New York

Pulling Jonathan Taylor away from the Colts won’t just hit the Giants’ draft board—it will also severely impact their salary cap.

• Draft Compensation: The Colts are expected to request a 2nd-round pick as the core trade asset, likely bundled with a 6th or 7th-round pick in upcoming drafts.
• Contract Commitment: Taylor is currently under contract through 2028 after signing his 2-year, $44M extension ($39M guaranteed). His cap hit scales up over the coming seasons, meaning New York would be locking in top-tier positional spending.

If Big Blue decides to push their chips to the middle of the table, Jonathan Taylor would provide the elite durability, home-run speed, and physical running style that New York’s offense desperately lacks right now. But whether the front office is willing to fork over a 2nd-round pick remains the multi-million dollar question.

Key takeaways

• The Trade Price Tag: The Indianapolis Colts are demanding a 2nd-round draft pick, plus a 6th or 7th-rounder, to consider trading star RB Jonathan Taylor.
• Contract Commitment: Taylor recently signed a 2-year, $44 million extension ($47M max value) that keeps him under contract through 2028.
• Giants’ Crisis: New York desperately needs backfield stability after cutting Najee Harris and benching Cam Skattebo over recurring fumble issues.

NHL Insider Frank Seravalli shed light on the intense back-and-forth between both front offices. Addressing why a deal hasn’t been finalized despite widespread reports that a trade could materialize within days, Seravalli revealed Detroit’s hesitancy regarding Minnesota’s blue-chip prospect pool. “I think in trade talks, the Red Wings have balked a little bit about the quality of Danila Yurov being one of the centerpieces.”

Despite Detroit’s pushback on Yurov as the primary return piece, league insiders maintain that a deal remains imminent as pressure mounts on both sides. With Larkin eager for a fresh start on a legitimate Stanley Cup contender and Minnesota desperately needing a proven No. 1 center to elevate their offense, both franchises are under heavy clock pressure to finalize a package that satisfies Detroit’s high demands.

Will Red Wings trade Dylan Larkin?

It’s possible. Danila Yurov is widely considered one of Minnesota’s most talented young offensive weapons, but Detroit’s front office is holding out for immediate, elite-level NHL impact rather than pure future projection. That could be the key to strike a deal.

Having stripped their franchise icon of his letter following his request to leave, Detroit cannot afford to lose a trade involving a star center without securing established, game-changing talent in return.

The Red Wings are refusing futures-only packages, demanding proven top-six caliber players or premium draft assets that accelerate their re-tool. General Manager Bill Guerin wants Larkin to anchor his top two lines, but surrendering higher-tier roster players or expanding the prospect package alongside Yurov complicates the Wild’s roster depth and salary cap balance.

Will the Minnesota Wild sign Dylan Larkin?

The Wild are making a huge effort to land Dylan Larkin. Minnesota’s aggressive pursuit of the veteran isn’t just about adding depth; it’s about filling a void that has plagued the franchise for years.

The Wild have lacked a true, game-breaking No. 1 center capable of driving play during high-stakes postseason series. That could be the difference to win the Stanley Cup.

Larkin’s two-way game, veteran leadership, and dynamic skating make him the ideal piece to slot into Minnesota’s top six alongside elite wingers. As Larkin continues to expand his acceptable landing spots to accelerate his exit from Hockeytown, Minnesota remains the most logical and aggressive suitor. If Guerin can sweeten the offer beyond Danila Yurov to appease Detroit, Larkin could be wearing a Wild sweater before the week is out.

Key takeaways

• Detroit Red Wings management balked at an offer built around prospect Danila Yurov as the main centerpiece for Dylan Larkin, according to insider Frank Seravalli.
• Despite the initial hesitation, a trade sending Dylan Larkin away from Detroit is reported to be near a resolution as he seeks a fresh start.
• The Minnesota Wild remain the premier destination for Larkin as they search for a top-line center to anchor their offense for a championship run.

Speaking to reporters following head coach John Harbaugh’s decision, Winston offered high praise for McCarthy’s explosive fourth-quarter performance against the Saints and opened up about stepping into a supporting role.

“Curiosity. Someone that came in, took the position by the horns, and executed very well. He’s embraced a fresh start. I know what it is to feel like you have a chance to start over again.”

Who is Giants starting QB?

J.J. McCarthy is the new Giants starting quarterback. Rather than dwelling on losing the starter’s mantle after filling in during Jaxson Dart’s injury recovery, Winston remains steadfast in his daily approach.

“Every day is going to continue to be focused on getting 1% better in terms of preparation, who I am to my teammates, and being ready when the opportunity presents itself.”

Jameis Winston’s words resonate deeply because he understands the unique pressure facing young quarterbacks in the NFL. McCarthy, who was acquired via trade from the Minnesota Vikings, stepped into a high-stakes environment in Week 6 and rallied Big Blue back into contention against New Orleans by throwing for 243 yards in just one quarter.

Winston recognizes how pivotal a clean slate can be for a young talent finding his footing:

• Empathy in the QB Room: Having restarted his own career across multiple franchises, Winston knows the boost of confidence a player receives when given a true opportunity to start over.
• No Room for Distractions: By publicly endorsing McCarthy, Winston prevents any potential quarterback controversy from lingering over the locker room.
• Unwavering Mentorship: Winston’s willingness to embrace McCarthy’s success creates a healthier preparation environment for the 23-year-old starter.

Why Jameis Winston’s leadership is crucial for New York’s playoff push

At 3-2-1, the Giants currently hold first place in a wide-open NFC East. While McCarthy brings dynamic mobility and off-platform playmaking to Matt Nagy’s offense, the NFL season is long, and backup quarterback play often dictates playoff survival.

Winston’s focus on “getting 1% better every day” ensures that Big Blue maintains high-level depth under center. Facing a formidable Houston Texans pass rush led by Will Anderson Jr. in Week 7, McCarthy will need all the support he can get on the sidelines.

Having a seasoned 32-year-old veteran like Winston in his corner gives the young signal-caller both an extra set of eyes and a steady mentor as he prepares for his first official start in Big Blue.

Key takeaways

• Jameis Winston praised J.J. McCarthy after being benched, noting that McCarthy “took the position by the horns” and “embraced a fresh start.”
• Winston pledged to focus on getting “1% better” every day, committing to support McCarthy while staying ready if his number is called again.
• Winston’s veteran leadership eliminates potential QB drama as the 3-2-1 Giants prepare for a critical Week 7 matchup against the Houston Texans.

The quarterback switch comes on the heels of a erratic, turnover-heavy outing from veteran Jameis Winston. Trailing 34-10 in the fourth quarter against New Orleans after Winston threw his second costly interception of the game, the coaching staff pulled the plug. McCarthy stepped into the huddle and immediately provided a spark, throwing for 243 passing yards and a touchdown in just 11 minutes of game action to nearly pull off an improbable comeback. That raw velocity and aggressive downfield mentality convinced leadership that McCarthy gives the team the best chance to win moving forward.

System fit played a massive role in this decision. When offensive coordinator Matt Nagy designed New York’s offensive scheme, it was tailored to take advantage of Jaxson Dart’s mobility, bootlegs, and pocket-moving concepts. With Dart sidelined, Winston struggled as a stationary pocket passer, whereas J.J. McCarthy possesses the athleticism and arm strength to execute those rollouts and off-platform throws seamlessly. Facing a relentless Houston pass rush, McCarthy’s mobility under center could completely re-energize the offense.

Why J.J. McCarthy fits Giants’ offense better than Jameis Winston

The Giants’ offensive system was built around high-leverage movement plays and dual-threat versatility. While Jameis Winston possesses a big arm, his lack of mobility compromised things behind a re-tooled offensive line, leading to erratic decisions and costly turnovers under pressure.

J.J. McCarthy offers a completely different dynamic:

• Moving the Pocket: McCarthy thrives on bootleg designs, sprint-outs, and play-action concepts that alter launch angles and freeze defensive ends.
• Second-Reaction Playmaking: His ability to evade interior pressure allows receivers additional time to scramble open downfield.
• Arm Talent & Velocity: As demonstrated against New Orleans, McCarthy can drive the ball into tight windows outside the numbers on the move.

Cam Skattebo and the running game hold the key to Week 7

While McCarthy’s promotion generates plenty of buzz, his success against Houston will heavily depend on restoring balance to the offense. New York’s ground game has struggled for consistency in recent weeks, placing far too much strain on the passing attack.

Cam Skattebo must bounce back from his recent ball-security issues and establish a tough, physical presence between the tackles. If Skattebo and the backfield can command attention on early downs, it will set up manageable third-down situations and open up play-action passing lanes for McCarthy to exploit. Sunday against the Texans marks the start of a new chapter for Big Blue, and all eyes will be on how McCarthy responds to his first official NFL start.

Key takeaways

• McCarthy Named QB1: The Giants have officially named J.J. McCarthy their starting quarterback for Week 7 against the Houston Texans.
• Saints Sparks: McCarthy replaced Jameis Winston in Week 6 after Winston threw two interceptions, leading a furious comeback attempt with 243 fourth-quarter yards.
• System Fit: McCarthy’s mobility better aligns with the offensive design intended for Jaxson Dart, while establishing Cam Skattebo in the run game will be vital against Houston.

Although Larkin shut down trade rumors linking him to the New York Rangers and Montreal Canadiens, his expanded trade list suggests he is determined enough to leave Detroit to consider more options than he had previously been willing to entertain.

Now, the Red Wings have addressed the buzz, with Jim Devellano, an alternate governor and executive in Detroit’s front office, confirming what had been an open secret around the NHL: Larkin still wants out.

“We would like him to stay but he wants to go to another team,” Devellano stated, via the Detroit Free Press “Big credit to Larkin, for still playing for us. He is a good guy.”

Larkin expands trade list

Larkin held firm in his position for a long time. His reported trade list was only three or four teams long. Now, the former captain is open to 10 potential destinations: the Florida Panthers, Minnesota Wild, Vegas Golden Knights, Dallas Stars, Utah Mammoth, Washington Capitals, Colorado Avalanche, Carolina Hurricanes, Tampa Bay Lightning, and New Jersey Devils.

The 10 teams on Larkin’s list share two main traits: they’re all Stanley Cup contenders, or could become contenders if things go right, and they’re all based in the United States. It had been reported, but now it’s official: Larkin doesn’t want to play in Canada.

Larkin’s trade finally sees the light at the end of the tunnel

There may be no hurdles left for Larkin to leave Detroit. He’s given the Red Wings more teams to negotiate with, and the abundance of potential suitors means Detroit has some leverage to get the return it’s looking for.

Moreover, with Larkin signed through 2031 at an $8.7 million cap hit and the NHL salary cap steadily rising, his contract and skill set make him an attractive acquisition target. Facing actual competition in the sweepstakes, teams will have to put together reasonable offers to convince Detroit to make a deal.

Finally, the drama may soon fade, with a solution that suits every party involved potentially on the horizon.

Key takeaways

• Jim Devellano confirmed that Dylan Larkin still wants a trade from the Detroit Red Wings.
• Dylan Larkin expanded his trade list to 10 potential destinations across the United States.
• Dylan Larkin remains signed through 2031 under an $8.7 million annual salary cap hit.

Trading a player of Antetokounmpo’s stature and one under contract may make little sense, but the Bucks didn’t really have much of a choice. Although Giannis didn’t publicly request a trade, reports state he and his camp pressured Milwaukee to trade him away, and the Heat were always circling around him, waiting for the moment to pounce.

Much has been said over the years about Miami’s front office with Pat Riley’s refusal to go after NBA stars and complete blockbuster trades. At one point, he had enough. The Heat went nuclear, sending virtually every single chip they owned to the Bucks to acquire Antetokounmpo. The main reason why the Bucks were pressured to trade Anteokounmpo before the 2026-27 NBA season is because they would’ve been playing him on a contract year if not.

Giannis would’ve entered contract year

Signed to a three-year extension, Giannis’ deal runs through the 2027-28 campaign, but only if the Greek-Nigerian star says so. Next offseason, Antetokounmpo has a player option and could become an unrestricted free agent if he declines to exercise it.

That meant Milwaukee either traded him, or risked losing him to free agency. Based on everything the Bucks got in return for Giannis, it’s safe to say they made the right choice.

Giannis’ trade to the Heat

Antetokounmpo wasn’t sent to Miami on his own; he was joined by Bobby Portis, who was also traded by the Bucks to the Heat. In return, the Bucks received Tyler Herro, Kel’el Ware, Jaime Jaquez Jr., Kasparas Jakucionis, three first-round picks (2026, 2031, and 2033), a pick swap in 2030, and a second-round pick in 2033, as reported by ESPN.

Key takeaways

• Giannis Antetokounmpo traded from the Milwaukee Bucks to the Miami Heat before the 2026-27 season.
• Player option next offseason allows Antetokounmpo to become an unrestricted free agent by declining it.
• Bucks acquired four players plus four future draft selections and a 2030 pick swap.

How to watch Palmeiras vs Fluminense in the USA

In the United States, the match is listed on beIN SPORTS and beIN SPORTS en Español, with online streaming available through Fubo and beIN SPORTS CONNECT.

Can I watch Palmeiras vs Fluminense for free?

Yes, fans in the United States may be able to watch Palmeiras vs. Fluminense for free through Fubo‘s five-day free trial, available to eligible new subscribers.

Match Preview: What’s at Stake?

Palmeiras and Fluminense meet in an all-Brazilian Copa Libertadores semifinal, with a place in the November 28 final in Montevideo, Uruguay, on the line. Palmeiras won the first leg 2-1 at the Maracana on October 14, giving them a narrow advantage heading into the return match at home.

That result puts Palmeiras in control of the tie: a win or draw will send them through to the final. Fluminense, meanwhile, must win by two or more goals to advance outright. A one-goal victory for Fluminense would level the aggregate score and send the semifinal to a penalty shootout, as the away-goals rule does not apply.

Palmeiras will look to make home advantage count and protect their lead, while Fluminense need a more productive attacking performance to keep their continental campaign alive.

With the teams separated by just one goal, the opening stages could be crucial: Palmeiras can force Fluminense to take risks, while the visitors must balance their need to attack with the danger of conceding another goal.

The winner will advance to the Copa Libertadores final on November 28 at Estadio Centenario in Montevideo. Since Palmeiras and Fluminense are on the same side of the bracket, they cannot meet again in the final.

Palmeiras vs Fluminense: Predicted Lineups

Palmeiras (3-4-2-1): Carlos Miguel; Alexander Barboza, Murilo, Gustavo Gomez; Joaquin Piquerez, Marlon Freitas, Lucas Evangelista, Agustin Giay; Andreas Pereira, Jhon Arias; Flaco Lopez.

Fluminense (4-2-3-1): Fabio; Guilherme Arana, Yerson Millan, Thiago Silva, Guga; Hercules, Nonato; Jefferson Savarino, Ganso, Agustin Canobbio; Hulk.

What Time Is the Palmeiras vs Fluminense Match?

The Copa Libertadores semifinal second leg kicks off on Wednesday, October 21, at 8:30 p.m. ET from Nubank Parque in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Here are the start times across the four main U.S. time zones:

• Eastern Time: 8:30 p.m.
• Central Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Mountain Time: 6:30 p.m.
• Pacific Time: 5:30 p.m.

“I haven’t talked with Boone regarding a contract extension,” Steinbrenner said when asked about his manager’s future. The owner also pointed to external factors when reflecting on the team’s late-season collapse, effectively shielding both Boone and general manager Brian Cashman from sole responsibility.

With Boone’s short-term future seemingly settled in New York, Steinbrenner’s revelation that extension talks haven’t begun signals a deliberate approach: the organization plans to take its time, evaluate the full picture, and make calculated decisions moving forward.

When Cashman took the podium, he provided an off-season injury update on captain Aaron Judge, adding another chapter to the ongoing saga surrounding the star outfielder’s health status ahead of 2027.

Steinbrenner’s thoughts about what needs to change in the Yankees next season

While extension talks are on hold, Steinbrenner did not shy away from the broader issue, emphasizing that the organization will conduct a deep dive into the coaching staff’s culture and operational philosophy before next season.

Addressing organizational mindset is a top priority for Steinbrenner heading into the winter, especially as a restless fanbase demands accountability amidst a championship drought dating back to 2009.

Faced with pivotal decisions on multiple fronts, the trio of Steinbrenner, Cashman, and Boone must navigate roster construction and implement the strategic changes necessary to build a contender capable of making a deep October run.

Key takeaways

• Hal Steinbrenner has not talked with Aaron Boone regarding a contract extension.
• Steinbrenner shielded Boone and Cashman from sole responsibility for the collapse.
• Brian Cashman provided an injury update on team captain Aaron Judge.

How to watch Atlas vs Club America in the USA

Atlas vs. Club America will be broadcast live in the United States on TUDN, with online streaming available through ViX, TUDN.com and the TUDN App.

Can I watch Atlas vs Club America for free?

There is no confirmed legal free-streaming option for Atlas vs. Club America in the United States. TUDN and ViX are the confirmed broadcast options, but viewers should check their existing TV or streaming subscriptions.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

Atlas and Club America meet in a crucial Matchday 13 fixture of the 2026 Liga MX Apertura, with both sides competing for a strong position ahead of the postseason.

Club America entered the matchup at the top of the standings, while Atlas were also in the qualification picture, making the points particularly valuable as the regular season progresses.

Atlas arrive after a 2-0 victory over Necaxa on October 16, following a 1-1 draw against Guadalajara. The results offer a boost for the hosts, who will look to use their home advantage at Estadio Jalisco to challenge one of the tournament’s leading teams.

Club America, meanwhile, come off an entertaining 5-3 win over Leon on October 18. Their attacking performance underlined their ability to score goals, but conceding three times also leaves room for improvement defensively. The visitors will aim to maintain their momentum and protect their position near the top of the table.

Atlas vs Club America: Predicted Lineups

Atlas (4-4-2): Camilo Vargas; Jorge Rodriguez, Jair Purata, Adilson Frias, Adrian Sanchez; Tomas Esteves, Cesar Ramirez, Gustavo Montiel, Kevin Zenon; Ryan Mmaee, Gonzalo Monzon.

Club America (4-2-3-1): Luis Malagon; Franco Rossano, Santiago Ramos Mingo, Santiago Bueno, Dagoberto Espinoza; Israel Reyes, Erick Sanchez; Brian Rodriguez, Carlos Alvarez, Alejandro Zendejas; Henry Martin.

What time is the Atlas vs Club America match?

Atlas vs. Club America kicks off on Wednesday, October 21, at 8:30 p.m. ET in the United States, according to TelevisaUnivision’s official broadcast schedule. The match will take place at Estadio Jalisco in Guadalajara, Mexico.

• Eastern Time: 8:30 p.m.
• Central Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Mountain Time: 6:30 p.m.
• Pacific Time: 5:30 p.m.

Making changes at football’s most important position is never easy. Regardless of the situation, there may never be a perfect moment to make such a shake-up without risking tension in the locker room. Still, the Giants believe they’ve seen enough from Winston, and McCarthy, despite an extremely limited sample size, could be the answer moving forward.

As the former Minnesota Vikings QB addressed the media as New York’s starting quarterback for the first time, he discussed his reaction to John Harbaugh’s announcement. His confession might have revealed a lot, including his own view of Winston’s performances so far.

“J.J. McCarthy says he’s honored but ‘not surprised’ to be the starting quarterback of the Giants. Feels he’s more ready to be a starter than his time in Minnesota,” as reported by Jordan Raanan of ESPN.

Why McCarthy may have taken shot at Winston

By saying he isn’t surprised that Harbaugh and the Giants called his number, McCarthy might have unintentionally taken a shot at Winston’s performance. Had Winston been putting together a better on-field product, New York’s decision to shake things up at quarterback might have come as a bigger shock to McCarthy.

Other than that, however, McCarthy had nothing but praise for Winston, and vice versa. The quarterback room in East Rutherford remains close, even though it’s been through the wringer—and back—to start the 2026 NFL season.

NY Giants turn to McCarthy for QB help

At the end of the day, the Giants spent a draft pick on McCarthy—even if it was only a fifth-rounder—they might as well get their money’s worth. Why waste any more time hoping Winston will find his footing when the G-Men could see what McCarthy has to offer?

If the young quarterback’s performance is anything like his almost miraculous fourth-quarter showing against the New Orleans Saints, New York has reasons to be excited. Plus, McCarthy is only in the Meadowlands for a limited time and is on a test-drive-type contract, as he will become a free agent in 2028.

Giants don’t need another franchise QB

When all is said and done this season, this is still Jaxson Dart’s team. The Giants don’t need McCarthy to play at a franchise-quarterback level; they just need him to be good enough to win some games and, hopefully, spare fans and coaches the heart-stopping, stomach-turning roller coaster that Winston can often take the team on.

J.J. ‘game manager’ McCarthy could help New York

For much of his college football career at Michigan, McCarthy was critically labeled a “game manager.” There’s nothing wrong with being one, and that label may actually be good enough for what New York wants from J.J. McCarthy in the 2026 NFL season.

The Giants don’t need McCarthy to play hero ball, though it’d be great if he could at times. As long as he can make the most of the weapons set up all around him, the team should do well.

Key takeaways

• J.J. McCarthy was named the starting quarterback for the New York Giants heading into Week 7.
• J.J. McCarthy feels more ready to start than he did in Minnesota.
• J.J. McCarthy praised Jameis Winston, noting the New York Giants’ quarterback room remains close.

How to watch Golden State Valkyries vs Atlanta Dream in the USA

The game will tip off at 8:00 PM ET at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia, and will be televised on USA Network, CNBC and NBC. Fans who prefer to watch online can live stream Golden State Valkyries vs Atlanta Dream on Peacock.

Can I watch Golden State Valkyries vs Atlanta Dream for free?

There is no confirmed legal free-streaming option for Game 3 of the 2026 WNBA Finals. Peacock requires a paid subscription, while watching through USA Network or CNBC generally requires access to a participating TV provider.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

The 2026 WNBA Finals are tied 1-1, making Game 3 a pivotal matchup as the series moves to Atlanta. The Golden State Valkyries won the opener 68-64 behind Gabby Williams‘ 26 points, but the Dream responded with a 79-65 victory in Game 2 to even the best-of-seven series. Both franchises are pursuing their first WNBA championship.

Atlanta enters Game 3 with momentum after a dominant performance from Angel Reese, who scored 27 points in Game 2, according to the Dream’s official recap. Her presence in the paint and the team’s ability to force turnovers could be decisive against a Golden State defense that struggled to contain Atlanta after halftime. The Dream will also benefit from playing in front of their home crowd at State Farm Arena, a venue with substantially more seating than their usual home arena.

For Golden State, the challenge is to rediscover the defensive intensity that secured the series opener and improve its offensive efficiency. Williams will be a key player to watch, while the Valkyries‘ supporting cast will need to contribute more consistently. With the championship series entering its third game, the winner will take a 2-1 lead and move two victories away from the title.

What time is the Golden State Valkyries vs Atlanta Dream match?

The Golden State Valkyries vs Atlanta Dream game will take place on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at 8:00 PM ET. Game 3 of the WNBA Finals will be played at State Farm Arena in Atlanta.

• Eastern Time: 8:00 PM
• Central Time: 7:00 PM
• Mountain Time: 6:00 PM
• Pacific Time: 5:00 PM

While attempting to get past a defender, Saka struck the ball with his left foot and felt discomfort. Rather than risk aggravating the issue, Mikel Arteta quickly called on Eze to come off the bench and replace his teammate.

Both the Champions League and the Premier League are still in their early stages, but an injury to a key player like Saka could have a significant impact for Arsenal. The next step will be to await the results of the medical tests to determine the severity of the injury.

Attacking alternatives for the Gunners

Mikel Arteta is sitting on a serious wealth of attacking options this 2026–27 season, giving opposing defenses absolute fits with their versatility. Spearheading the group, Kai Havertz continues to be Arteta’s trusted focal point up top, already pocketing a goal against Chelsea and an assist against Lille while anchoring the pressing scheme.

Supporting him, Eberechi Eze brings pure flair to the frontline, having already found the net against Lille in the Champions League and chipped in with an EFL Cup assist. Meanwhile, Noni Madueke provides explosive width and directness off the flank, leading the squad with 2.3 key passes per game. With this blend of physicality, vision, and raw pace, Arsenal’s frontline gives Arteta the ultimate toolbox to rotate and break down any setup in Europe.

Eze comes on and delivers

They often say that goals come from the bench, and this time was no exception. After a superb assist from Martin Odegaard, Eberechi Eze fired a low, angled shot past Manuel Neuer to score the opening goal of the match between Arsenal and Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena.

Key takeaways

• Bukayo Saka was forced off with a suspected muscle injury early against Bayern Munich.
• Eberechi Eze came off the bench to replace Saka during the Champions League clash.
• Eberechi Eze fired a low shot past Manuel Neuer to score the opening goal.

Though fit enough to be available to Kompany and Bayern as a substitute, Diaz isn’t fully fit, and that’s the reason why the Bavarian side opted to leave him off the starting lineup against Arsenal. Addressing the decision, Kompany made his reasoning clear.

“We’re going through a period with little time to recover. Sometimes, that means one game can have an impact on the next. Diaz was already struggling towards the end of the game against Leipzig. We were worried that something had happened to him. He has trained again, so he could play a role today if he feels good. We’re happy that he’s available at all,” Kompany said before kickoff, via DAZN.

Diaz’ numbers in 2026-27 season

So far in the season, Diaz has been a staple of Bayern’s attack, just like he’s been from the moment he touched down in Munich. Diaz has appeared in 10 games across all competitions this season, registering 781 minutes (per Transfermarkt), scoring five goals and assisting another.

In the 2026-27 UEFA Champions League, the Colombian winger has scored a goal in two games, netting one during the unexpected 3-3 draw against Viking in Matchday 2.

Bayern’s starting XI vs Arsenal

Although Kompany has left the door open for Diaz to come on as a substitute against the Gunners, the Bavarians have made adjustments to their usual lineup. Manuel Neuer is back in goal after missing Bayern’s game against Viking last week.

Manuel Neuer (GK); Konrad Laimer, Dayot Upamecano, Min-jae Kim, Josip Stanisic; Tom Bischof, Aleksandar Pavlovic; Serge Gnabry, Ismael Salibari, Jonathan Davies; Harry Kane.

With Diaz raising concerns on whether he can play the full 90 minutes, Kompany landed on Davies, who usually plays as a left back, to replace the Colombian striker in attack.

Key takeaways

• Luis Diaz was left out of Bayern Munich’s starting lineup against Arsenal due to fitness issues.
• Luis Diaz has scored five goals in 10 games for Bayern Munich this season.
• Jonathan Davies replaced Luis Diaz in attack for Bayern Munich against Arsenal.

According to a report from ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the Giants plan to start McCarthy against the Houston Texans, which isn’t exactly how former Giants’ Russell Wilson drew things up. Things between Wilson and New York didn’t end in the best of notes, and the Giants’ latest McCarthy QB1 decision might add another layer to the conflicted relationship.

While the Giants recognize one of C.J. Stroud and the Texans’ strengths heading into Week 7, they aren’t blind or naive. The G-Men know they have strengths of their own but must clear up some doubts before they can put them to full use.

On that note, figuring out the best course of action at quarterback is paramount. Still, giving up on Winston after four games may not be ideal. At least, that’s what former Giants QB-turned-NFL analyst Wilson believes.

Russell Wilson’s comments

“I think that before you jump the bridge to J.J. McCarthy you may have to give Jameis Winston one more shot and one more look at it to make sure,” Wilson said on CBS Sports’ “Set, Hut! Show”. “The reality is Jameis has played more football, but also, this 23-year-old just threw for 243 yards in the fourth quarter. What if he played four quarters?”

Having played 14 NFL seasons, Wilson knows a thing or two about coaching and quarterback decisions. Moreover, he spent last season in New York, albeit under a different coaching staff, and knows what might be best for the Giants.

NY Giants didn’t listen to Wilson

Either way, it’s clear that Wilson’s opinions played no role—or were simply outweighed by McCarthy’s merits—in Harbaugh‘s decision. Wilson voiced his thoughts before reports confirmed that McCarthy would start against the Texans in Houston on Sunday. They may have been in vain, or they might give him a chance to tell New York, “I told you so.”

Key takeaways

• J.J. McCarthy will start for the New York Giants against the Houston Texans.
• ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler first reported the Giants’ plan to switch starting quarterbacks.
• Russell Wilson suggested giving Jameis Winston one more start before inserting J.J. McCarthy.

For the Valkyries, the challenge is to regain their defensive edge after allowing 79 points. Atlanta, meanwhile, will look to build on Angel Reese’s dominant performance, as she finished with 30 points and 16 rebounds to lead their response.

A tie is not possible in basketball; if the score is level after regulation, the game goes to overtime. Will Natalie Nakase‘s team reclaim the advantage, or can Karl Smesko‘s side protect home court and move closer to the title?

What happens if the Valkyries win Game 3 vs. the Dream?

If the Golden State Valkyries win Game 3, they will take a 2-1 lead over the Atlanta Dream in the 2026 WNBA Finals and move two victories away from their first championship. The win would give Golden State the advantage in the best-of-seven series as the teams continue their battle for the title.

The Valkyries will look to bounce back after falling 79-65 in Game 2 at Chase Center on October 19. Golden State struggled to contain Atlanta’s offense after halftime, surrendering a decisive scoring run that turned a close game into a double-digit defeat.

Natalie Nakase’s team bench outscored Atlanta’s reserves 33-11, but only Gabby Williams among Golden State’s starters reached double figures, finishing with 14 points. A win in Atlanta would also help Golden State regain control after the Dream ended the Valkyries’ early series advantage.

The teams are playing for their first WNBA championship, and Game 3 represents an important opportunity for the Valkyries to show they can respond to adversity on the road.

Golden State finished the regular season as the No. 2 seed with a 32-12 record and reached the Finals after sweeping the defending champion Las Vegas Aces in the semifinals.

What happens if the Valkyries lose Game 3 against Atlanta?

If the Golden State Valkyries lose Game 3, they will fall behind the Atlanta Dream 2-1 in the 2026 WNBA Finals, leaving them needing to win the next game to avoid facing a 3-1 deficit. The result would give Atlanta the series advantage and put the Dream two wins away from their first WNBA championship.

A defeat would be especially costly because Golden State would have lost both games in Atlanta’s home stretch if the Dream also won Game 4 on Saturday, October 24.

The Valkyries will need to limit Atlanta’s transition opportunities and find a way to contain Angel Reese, who led the Dream with 27 points in the team’s 79-65 win in Game 2, according to Golden State’s official recap.

Atlanta also generated a decisive 29-8 scoring run after the teams were tied at 40 early in the third quarter. Preventing another momentum swing will be essential if Golden State wants to avoid losing control of the series.

Still, a Game 3 loss would not end the Valkyries’ championship hopes. The Finals are a best-of-seven series, meaning the first team to win four games takes the title. Golden State would have opportunities to respond, starting with Game 4 in Atlanta, but the pressure would increase with every subsequent game.

For Atlanta, a win would reinforce the momentum created by its Game 2 comeback and put the franchise in a strong position to pursue its first championship. The Dream have reached the Finals before but have never won the title, making this series a major opportunity for the organization.

Key takeaways

• Golden State Valkyries and Atlanta Dream are tied 1-1 entering Game 3 at State Farm Arena.
• Angel Reese led the Atlanta Dream with 30 points and 16 rebounds in Game 2.
• Golden State Valkyries finished the regular season with a 32-12 record as the No. 2 seed.

“Every year’s a little bit different… [this year], felt like we had a team capable of making a deep run and winning it all, but ultimately got beat,” Boone told reporters, addressing the organization’s inability to capture a World Series title since 2009.

With Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner publicly shielding Boone and general manager Brian Cashman from primary blame for the late-season collapse, Boone appears set to return to the dugout and lead the club into the upcoming season.

Between emerging rumors surrounding Ryan McMahon and potential offseason targets like Shoki Oda, the Yankees face a pivotal winter. Front-office leadership must navigate significant roster and staff choices if they hope to orchestrate a turnaround in 2027.

Steinbrenner’s thoughts on Boone’s performance in 2026

Steinbrenner continues to back his manager, recognizing the structural hurdles Boone navigated throughout 2026, most notably a banged-up roster that lost superstar slugger Aaron Judge during the stretch run of the regular season.

Addressing the media, Steinbrenner offered a firm defense of Boone’s body of work. “I thought Boone managed a good season, especially with the pitching staff… he got us to the playoffs, and the bottom line is the players didn’t live up to their end of the bargain in the playoffs,“ Steinbrenner stated.

That strong vote of confidence strongly signals that Boone will remain at the helm for the 2027 MLB season, aligning with reports leading up to Wednesday’s press conference in the Bronx.

Key takeaways

• Aaron Boone reflected on the Yankees’ ongoing World Series title drought since 2009.
• Hal Steinbrenner publicly shielded Boone and general manager Brian Cashman from primary blame.
• Steinbrenner defended Boone, noting the team lost superstar slugger Aaron Judge to injury.

The chemistry between Rodgers and Valdes-Scantling is well-documented from their four seasons together in Green Bay (2018–2021), where the 6-foot-4 receiver established himself as one of the NFL’s premier vertical stretches. During their Packers tenure, Valdes-Scantling hauled in 123 receptions for 2,153 yards and 13 touchdowns, averaging a remarkable 17.5 yards per catch. Having also spent time with Pittsburgh last season, MVS brings instant comfortability with Rodgers’ pre-snap adjustments and cadence, eliminating the typical learning curve required for mid-season additions.

Pittsburgh’s decision to bring back MVS stems from an urgent need for depth on the perimeter. While DK Metcalf and rookie breakout Germie Bernard have established themselves as dependable top options for Rodgers, the rest of the unit is heavily compromised by injuries. Adding a veteran who already understands Rodgers’ exact expectations offers Pittsburgh a low-risk, high-reward patch while their starting lineup recovers.

Injury woes force Pittsburgh’s hand at wide receiver

The Steelers’ offense has taken severe hits to its receiving core in recent weeks. Key contributors Michael Pittman Jr. and Roman Wilson are both sidelined on Injured Reserve, stripping the team of essential possession targets and blocking presence on the outside.

While rookie sensation Germie Bernard has emerged as a revelation with his explosive route-running and big-play ability alongside Metcalf, Head Coach Mike McCarthy needed immediate insurance. Beyond Metcalf and Bernard, Pittsburgh was left with minimal experienced depth, leaving Rodgers with limited targets during multi-receiver sets.

What Marquez Valdes-Scantling brings back to Pittsburgh

Valdes-Scantling isn’t expected to step in as a high-volume target, but his skill set directly addresses Pittsburgh’s offensive geometry:

• Instant Rapport with Rodgers: MVS has years of experience improvising on Rodgers’ famous scramble-drill plays and reading coverage disguises in tandem with the veteran QB.
• Vertical Threat Capability: Averaging 16.8 yards per reception over his career, Valdes-Scantling forces safety help over the top, opening up crucial underneath space for Metcalf and Bernard.
• Playoff Experience: As a two-time Super Bowl champion with Kansas City and a veteran of multiple postseason runs in Green Bay, MVS provides steady leadership in a banged-up receiver room.

If Valdes-Scantling is elevated to the active roster, his familiarity with Aaron Rodgers could turn a emergency depth signing into a seamless mid-season contribution for the Steelers.

Key takeaways

• Rodgers Reunion: Pittsburgh is re-signing wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling, reuniting him with quarterback Aaron Rodgers after four productive seasons together in Green Bay.
• Injury Crisis: The Steelers desperately needed receiver depth after landing Michael Pittman Jr. and Roman Wilson on Injured Reserve.
• WR Support: MVS arrives to complement DK Metcalf and breakout rookie Germie Bernard, offering an instant deep threat who knows Rodgers’ cadence.

Though for very different reasons, Bayern‘s starting XI to face the Gunners will be highlighted by the key absences of Musiala and Olise. Still, Kompany will have other top stars available in the squad, including Harry Kane, who knows a thing or two about facing Arsenal.

As the North London club arrives at Allianz Arena, Kane will be waiting, fork and knife in hand, bib in place, ready to have a meal. The same can’t be said about Musiala and Olise, though.

Musiala is out with injury

Musiala is still sidelined with a muscle tear in his right thigh. The 2026-27 season has been filled with adversity for Musiala, who cleared concerns and explained why he fainted twice during the preseason, but hasn’t been a regular presence for Bayern due to multiple health setbacks.

His latest injury occured during warmups in an international game for Germany and has kept Musiala inactive since Sept. 24. So far in the season, Musiala has only played four games (213 minutes, according to Transfermarkt), scoring two goals and assisting another.

Olise must serve suspension

As for Olise, the reason for the Londoner’s absence is much different. Olise was shown two yellow cards, resulting in a red one, during Bayern’s shocking 3-3 tie against Viking in Matchday 2 of the Champions League. As is standard for such send-offs, Olise will have to serve a one-game suspension, keeping him out of the lineup against Arsenal.

Olise’s bookings happened just seconds apart making for an uncommon ejection. It was Olise’s first red card of his senior career, and it has cost him his appearance against the Gunners.

Key takeaways

• Bayern Munich will miss Joshua Kimmich, Jamal Musiala, and Michael Olise against Arsenal.
• Jamal Musiala remains sidelined with a muscle tear in his right thigh.
• Michael Olise is suspended following a red card received against Viking.

According to Rush, New York’s persistent rushing woes mean two prime targets stand out on the trade market, though Taylor’s potential price tag could prove restrictive. “The Giants have struggled in the run game, so there’s two targets that most will look at with Indianapolis,” Rush noted. “One is Jonathan Taylor, but he might be too costly as far as a trade package goes. The other is Quenton Nelson, one of the players many felt the Giants should have taken back in 2018 over Saquon Barkley.”

Acquiring a powerhouse of Nelson’s caliber would deliver an immediate, massive boost to a Giants offensive line that has struggled with pass protection and opening running lanes for years. With New York seeking identity and stability, making a move for one of the NFL’s premier interior linemen could completely transform the dynamic of Matt Nagy’s offense.

The 2018 Draft Connection: A chance to rewrite franchise history

The link between Quenton Nelson and Big Blue dates back to the 2018 NFL Draft, when the Giants held the No. 2 overall pick. Franchise leadership ultimately selected dynamic running back Saquon Barkley, while Indianapolis snagged Nelson four picks later at No. 6.

While Barkley delivered memorable individual highlights in New York, draft analysts and fans have long debated whether selecting an elite interior linchpin like Nelson would have provided greater long-term value. Acquiring Nelson now would finally give the Giants the dominant, physical tone-setter they missed out on six years ago.

Why Quenton Nelson would be a game-changer for the Giants

Quenton Nelson is not just another starting guard; he is a generational offensive line talent with three First-Team All-Pro selections and eight consecutive Pro Bowl nods to open his career. Known for his crushing power, legendary mauling style in the run game, and elite IQ in pass protection, Nelson instantly elevates any front five he joins.

For a Giants squad desperately searching for internal consistency, adding Nelson would solve multiple problems simultaneously:

• Paving the Run Game: Nelson excels at creating instant displacement at the point of attack, giving New York’s backs the clean running lanes they haven’t seen all season.
• Quarterback Protection: His ability to anchor against interior pass rushers provides a clean pocket, keeping the offense on schedule.
• Culture and Leadership: Nelson brings a fierce, aggressive mindset that can rebuild the toughness of the entire offensive line room.

While pulling off a trade with the Colts for an elite guard won’t be simple, bringing Quenton Nelson to East Rutherford would be the ultimate statement move for Big Blue’s immediate and long-term offensive rebuilding plans.

Key takeaways

• Double Target from Indy: NFL insider Doug Rush highlighted both Quenton Nelson and Jonathan Taylor as logical trade targets from the Colts to fix the Giants’ offensive slump.
• The 2018 Draft Redo: Adding Nelson would bring in the elite guard many analysts believed New York should have drafted over Saquon Barkley with the No. 2 overall pick in 2018.
• Generational Impact: Nelson is a multi-time First-Team All-Pro and 8x Pro Bowler whose arrival would instantly transform New York’s offensive line culture and rushing efficiency.

“The main points to consider for this disappointing season were the position players and the inability to score on a consistent basis throughout the course of the entire season, not on the shoulders of Aaron Boone,“ Steinbrenner told reporters during a joint press conference with Cashman.

While speculation continues to swirl around Boone’s job security heading into next season, Steinbrenner’s defensive posture suggested the manager remains in the team’s plans for 2027, even if an official extension has yet to be finalized.

With several high-profile targets linked to the Yankees this winter—including Hanshin Tigers standout Shoki Oda—anxious fans are eager to see how the front office reshapes the roster, though public outrage over the continued tenure of Boone and Cashman remains at a fever pitch.

Steinbrenner’s thoughts about performance in 2026

While pinpointing specific roster flaws that derailed the postseason run, Steinbrenner stressed that he plans to evaluate the organization top-to-bottom, even as he defended the club’s baseline regular-season achievements.

“I have never suggested that a season like this season is a success. I am often asked, ‘Was the entire season a failure?’ Winning 93 games is not a failure. Playing in the Division Series is not a failure. It became a failure because we did not do well. I don’t believe I’ve ever called a season that we didn’t win a World Championship in successful,“ Steinbrenner said.

Steinbrenner clarifies rumors about selling the Yankees

With the Steinbrenner family at the helm for over five decades, the Yankees owner also addressed recent reports regarding a potential sale of the franchise, firmly shutting down any notion that the family is looking to divest.

“The $2.6 billion they got from Apollo is about financial stability and setting up the next generation of Steinbrenners, who will eventually take over,” Steinbrenner said regarding the franchise’s long-term ownership plans.

Key takeaways

• Hal Steinbrenner blamed position players for the Yankees’ disappointing 2026 season.
• Steinbrenner stated winning 93 games and reaching the ALDS is not a total failure.
• The Steinbrenner family secured $2.6 billion from Apollo for long-term ownership stability.

How to watch Inter Milan vs Shakhtar Donetsk in the USA

Inter Milan vs. Shakhtar Donetsk will be available to watch in the United States on CBS Sports Network, Fubo and Paramount+, with Spanish-language streaming available through ViX.

Can I watch Inter Milan vs Shakhtar Donetsk for free?

Fans in the United States can watch Inter Milan vs. Shakhtar Donetsk through Fubo, which offers a 5-day free trial to eligible new subscribers.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

Inter Milan return to San Siro under pressure after losing their first two Champions League league-phase matches. They fell 2-1 to Real Madrid before suffering a dramatic 4-3 home defeat against Club Brugge on October 13. Despite scoring three goals against the Belgian side, Inter’s defensive problems proved costly, leaving Cristian Chivu‘s team without a point after two rounds.

The Italian side responded with a 3-1 Serie A victory over Bologna on October 17, offering a confidence boost ahead of its European fixture. However, captain Lautaro Martinez is expected to miss the match after suffering a muscle injury against Club Brugge. His absence puts additional responsibility on Marcus Thuram and the other attacking options to deliver the goals Inter need.

Shakhtar Donetsk arrive in a stronger European position. They drew 1-1 against PSV Eindhoven in their opening match before defeating AEK Athens 3-1 on October 14. With four points from their first two fixtures, Arda Turan‘s side can put further pressure on Inter by earning a positive result away from home.

Inter Milan vs Shakhtar Donetsk: Predicted Lineups

Inter Milan (3-5-2): Josep Martinez; Alessandro Bastoni, Manuel Akanji, Yann Bisseck; Federico Dimarco, Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Hakan Calhanoglu, Nicolo Barella, Andy Diouf; Marcus Thuram, Pio Esposito.

Shakhtar Donetsk (4-1-4-1): Dmytro Riznyk; Pedro Henrique, Mykola Matviyenko, Valeriy Bondar, Vinicius Tobias; Oleh Ocheretko; Kevin, Marlon Gomes, Pedrinho, Alisson Santana; Kaua Elias.

What time is the Inter Milan vs Shakhtar Donetsk match?

Inter Milan vs. Shakhtar Donetsk kicks off on Wednesday, October 21, at 3:00 p.m. ET in the United States. The UEFA Champions League league-phase match will be played at San Siro in Milan, Italy, with a local kickoff time of 9:00 p.m. CTS.

• Eastern Time: 3:00 p.m.
• Central Time: 2:00 p.m.
• Mountain Time: 1:00 p.m.
• Pacific Time: 12:00 p.m.

Addressing the upcoming campaign, Redick offered a candid assessment of the team’s preseason growing pains, highlighting several critical defensive areas the Lakers must clean up to compete in a crowded Western Conference.

“From early in September, and even kind of early training camp-ish, maybe before we played our first game, I thought we could potentially be like around an average defense…the areas of focus for us, transition defense, defensive rebounding, we weren’t good [during preseason]. So if we get better at that, I think we’ll have a chance to be a pretty good defense, and that’s exciting,” Redick told reporters.

With those defensive priorities front and center—and Dalton Knecht’s situational role already defined outside the team—Los Angeles enters the new season relying on a revamped supporting cast capable of shifting the team’s trajectory.

Lakers’ new additions for the upcoming season

As the Lakers retool around Doncic and Austin Reaves, front-office moves brought a wave of fresh talent to Hollywood, headlined by guard Quentin Grimes, who landed in Los Angeles on a four-year, $60 million deal.

Here is how the Lakers’ offseason roster additions break down heading into opening night:

Trades and sign-and-trades:

• Walker Kessler (C): Acquired from the Utah Jazz via a major sign-and-trade deal (4 years, $129.5M) to anchor the interior defense.
• Jaden Hardy (SG): Acquired from the Washington Wizards alongside two future second-round picks in exchange for Deandre Ayton.

Free agent signings:

• Quentin Grimes (SG): Signed to a 4-year, $60M contract to bolster perimeter defense and 3-point shooting.
• Sandro Mamukelashvili (PF/C): Signed to a 4-year, $52M deal, bringing frontcourt playmaking off the bench.
• Collin Sexton (PG/SG): Signed to a 2-year, $19.2M room-exception deal to provide scoring punch in the backcourt.
• Kevon Looney (C): Veteran rim protector added on a 1-year minimum contract.
• Matisse Thybulle (SG/SF): Elite perimeter defender signed on a 1-year minimum contract.
• Ziaire Williams (SF): Athletic wing depth added on a 1-year minimum contract.

Key takeaways

• JJ Redick highlighted defensive rebounding and transition defense as areas needing improvement.
• Quentin Grimes signed a four-year, $60 million deal with the Lakers.
• Walker Kessler joined Los Angeles via a four-year, $129.5 million sign-and-trade deal.

How to watch Real Madrid vs Leipzig in the USA

Real Madrid vs. RB Leipzig will be available to watch in the United States through Paramount+ and DAZN USA, according to match-specific broadcast listings.

Can I watch Real Madrid vs Leipzig for free?

There is no confirmed free legal livestream of the full Real Madrid vs. Leipzig match in the United States. Paramount+ and DAZN USA are the listed streaming options, and viewers should check their existing subscriptions for access.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

Real Madrid enter Matchday 3 looking to maintain their perfect start in the Champions League. They opened their campaign with a 2-1 victory over Inter Milan before producing a dramatic 4-3 comeback win against Roma. Six points from their first two matches put the Spanish side in a strong position as it pursues direct qualification for the Round of 16.

Jose Mourinho‘s team also arrives after a convincing 4-1 victory over Sevilla in LaLiga on October 18. Kylian Mbappe scored twice in that match, while Arda Guler and Yan Diomande also found the net. Vinicius Junior is available for the Champions League fixture despite being suspended domestically, giving Real Madrid another attacking option.

RB Leipzig face a tougher challenge after suffering a 6-1 defeat against Bayern Munich on October 17. The German side had previously beaten PSV Eindhoven 1-0 in the Champions League, recovering from a 4-1 loss to Como in its opening European fixture. Leipzig will need a much stronger defensive performance to contain Real Madrid’s attack at the Bernabeu.

Real Madrid vs Leipzig: Predicted Lineups

Real Madrid (4-2-3-1): Thibaut Courtois; Marc Cucurella, Ibrahima Konate, Antonio Rudiger, Denzel Dumfries; Aurelien Tchouameni, Federico Valverde; Vinicius Junior, Jude Bellingham, Yanis Diomande; Kylian Mbappe.

Leipzig (4-2-3-1): Maarten Vandevoordt; David Raum, Castello Lukeba, Willi Orban, Ridle Baku; Ezechiel Banzuzi, Neil El Aynaoui; Antonio Nusa, Christopher Nkunku, Brajan Gruda; Romulo.

What time is the Real Madrid vs Leipzig match?

Real Madrid vs. Leipzig kicks off on Wednesday, October 21, at 3:00 p.m. ET in the United States. The Champions League league-phase fixture will be played at the Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid, with a local kickoff time of 9:00 p.m. CTS.

• Eastern Time: 3:00 p.m.
• Central Time: 2:00 p.m.
• Mountain Time: 1:00 p.m.
• Pacific Time: 12:00 p.m.

How to watch Bayern Munich vs Arsenal in the USA

Bayern Munich vs. Arsenal will be available to watch in the United States through Paramount+, ViX, TUDN USA and UniMás. Fans can also access coverage through the digital platforms TUDN.com, Univision NOW and the TUDN App.

Can I watch Bayern Munich vs Arsenal for free?

There is no confirmed free legal livestream of the full Bayern Munich vs. Arsenal match in the United States. Paramount+ and ViX are the listed streaming options, and viewers should check whether their existing subscriptions include the game.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

Bayern Munich and Arsenal meet in one of the standout fixtures of Matchday 3 of the 2026-27 UEFA Champions League league phase. Both clubs have made strong starts to their European campaigns, and Wednesday’s matchup offers an early opportunity to strengthen their position in the race for direct qualification to the Round of 16. Under the competition’s format, the top eight teams advance directly, while clubs finishing ninth through 24th enter a two-legged playoff.

Bayern opened their European campaign with a commanding 5-0 win over Bodo/Glimt before drawing 3-3 against Viking. Vincent Kompany’s side has also demonstrated its attacking potential in the Bundesliga, including a 6-1 victory over RB Leipzig on October 17. However, the draw against Viking showed that Bayern can be vulnerable defensively, a concern against an Arsenal team capable of exploiting mistakes.

Arsenal arrive in Munich after beating Napoli 1-0 and Lille 3-0 in their first two Champions League matches. Mikel Arteta‘s team has combined defensive solidity with an efficient attack, giving the Gunners an opportunity to test themselves against one of Europe’s most dangerous home sides. A positive result away from home would further strengthen Arsenal’s early position in the league phase.

Bayern Munich vs Arsenal: Predicted Lineups

Bayern Munich (4-2-3-1): Jonas Urbig; Alphonso Davies, Jonathan Tah, Dayot Upamecano, Konrad Laimer; Aleksandar Pavlovic, Joshua Kimmich; Luis Diaz, Ismael Saibari, Lennart Karl; Harry Kane.

Arsenal (4-2-3-1): David Raya; Riccardo Calafiori, Gabriel Magalhaes, Ezri Konsa, Jurrien Timber; Declan Rice, Myles Lewis-Skelly; Eberechi Eze, Martin Odegaard, Noni Madueke; Viktor Gyokeres.

What time is the Bayern Munich vs Arsenal match?

The Bayern Munich vs. Arsenal match kicks off on Wednesday, October 21, at 3:00 p.m. ET in the United States. The Champions League fixture is scheduled for 9:00 p.m. local time in Munich at the Allianz Arena.

• Eastern Time: 3:00 p.m.
• Central Time: 2:00 p.m.
• Mountain Time: 1:00 p.m.
• Pacific Time: 12:00 p.m.

Although Dylan Larkin shut down the rumors of a trade to New York with his new trade list, the Rangers may still see their name linked to another disgruntled U.S. Olympic gold medalist actively requesting a trade in the NHL. However, the Blueshirts may play a role in Hellebuyck’s trade without landing the three-time Vezina Trophy winner themselves.

“I’m hearing [Karel] Vejmelka’s name a lot being linked to the Rangers. [Connor] Hellebuyck, by way of Vejmelka coming to New York, would be going to Utah,” Stephen Valiquette reported on Sportsnet.

NY Rangers could help Hellebuyck out

Thus, the Rangers may play a facilitator’s role in Hellebuyck’s escape plan from Winnipeg. With reports hinting that the Jets may lift Hellebuyck’s unpaid suspension soon, it seems a trade is imminent. As for the Blueshirts, they don’t really need Hellebuyck.

Shesterkin is out for the 2026-27 NHL season, but he is under contract through 2033. There is no realistic scenario in which the Rangers boast a Hellebuyck-Shesterkin tandem. Instead, New York could go after Vejmelka, who could form a tandem with Dylan Garand.

Though off to a red-hot start and in a market like New York City’s, the Rangers aren’t under immense pressure to win a championship this season. Opting to roll with such a goaltending duo until the wheels come off may be a wise decision, and one that comes at a relatively low price.

New York would prefer a goalie set to become UFA

Ideally, the Rangers would trade for a goalie on a contract year, adding a true rental to address the injuries in net without making a long-term commitment. However, they won’t shut their options, and Vejmelka might make sense, too, even though he’s under contract through 2030.

The bigger question would be what happens to Joonas Korpisalo in that event, but it seems that the Rangers will figure that out when they cross that bridge. Perhaps Korpisalo heads to Winnipeg, along with other valuable pieces, as part of a three-team trade between the Rangers, Jets, and Mammoth.

Rumors grow wild around Hellebuyck

Only time will tell, but rumors are heating up around Hellebuyck’s future, as well as New York’s search for help in net. Garand has played lights out ever since Shesterkin went down and his number was called, but the Blueshirts know that, sooner or later, adversity will come knocking at the door, and they need a Plan B.

Hellebuyck’s situation and trade request are complex in their own right, and it has often been said that they might require a multiteam deal. Perhaps the stars will align, and all parties involved will get what they are looking for, or something close enough.

Key takeaways

• New York Rangers are linked to Utah Mammoth goaltender Karel Vejmelka to fill Igor Shesterkin’s void.
• Stephen Valiquette reported that Karel Vejmelka moving to New York could send Connor Hellebuyck to Utah.
• Igor Shesterkin is out for the 2026-27 season with a right knee injury.

Dybantsa will not play for the Wizards today vs Bucks as he was officially sidelined after sustaining an injury during Washington’s preseason finale against the Detroit Pistons, head coach Brian Keefe confirmed to reporters during his pregame press conference.

The rookie represents a core piece of Washington’s long-term vision alongside stars Anthony Davis and Trae Young. While D.C. fans eagerly anticipate seeing the trio anchor a revamped Wizards squad, the team will have to navigate opening night without their prized young talent.

Unlike veteran-heavy teams adjusting to late-career stars—such as the Philadelphia 76ers managing LeBron James’ uncertain future—the Wizards are betting on a hybrid approach, pairing elite, established stars with high-upside youth to re-establish themselves in the Eastern Conference.

Predicted lineups for Wizards and Bucks today

Davis and Young are slated to headline Washington’s starting unit against a retooled Bucks squad. Milwaukee enters a new chapter led by guard Tyler Herro following the offseason departure of franchise icon Giannis Antetokounmpo, who signed with the Miami Heat.

Here are the projected starting lineups for tonight’s Wizards-Bucks matchup:

• Milwaukee Bucks:
  • PG: Ryan Rollins
  • SG: Tyler Herro
  • SF: Jaime Jaquez Jr.
  • PF: Kyle Kuzma
  • C: Myles Turner
• Washington Wizards:
  • PG: Trae Young
  • SG: Bilal Coulibaly
  • SF: Kyshawn George
  • PF: Anthony Davis
  • C: Alex Sarr

Both organizations kick off the regular season with playoff ambitions. For Washington, tonight marks an opportunity to pivot toward competitive basketball after consecutive rebuilding years. For Milwaukee, it serves as the official opening chapter of the post-Giannis era, a franchise reset following a historic decade that yielded an NBA Championship and an NBA Cup title.

Key takeaways

• AJ Dybantsa will miss Washington’s season opener against Milwaukee due to an injury.
• Anthony Davis and Trae Young are expected to lead Washington’s predicted starting lineup.
• Bucks are expected to be led by Tyler Herro.

How to watch Como vs Manchester United in the USA

Como vs. Manchester United will be available to watch in the United States through Paramount+, TUDN USA, UniMás, Univision NOW, ViX, TUDN.com and the TUDN App.

Can I watch Como vs Manchester United for free?

There are no confirmed free streaming options for Como vs. Manchester United in the United States. The services require a subscription or eligible TV-provider access, depending on the platform.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

Como and Manchester United meet for the first time in a competitive fixture, with both clubs looking to recover from defeats in Matchday 2. Como lost 3-2 away to Feyenoord after opening their Champions League campaign with an impressive 4-1 win over RB Leipzig. The Italian side has three points and will look to take advantage of playing at home.

Cesc Fabregas has helped Como establish itself among Italy’s rising clubs, and its fourth-place finish in Serie A last season secured a place in the Champions League for the first time. A win over Manchester United would be a major milestone for the club and could improve its chances of advancing to the knockout stage. Como also recently earned a domestic victory over Fiorentina, offering encouragement before the European contest.

Manchester United, meanwhile, are under pressure after a 2-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid in their previous Champions League match. The Red Devils began the competition with a 4-0 win over Sabah, but their European setback was followed by a 1-1 Premier League draw against Leeds United. Michael Carrick‘s team needs a response to avoid losing further ground in the league-phase standings.

Como vs Manchester United: Predicted Lineups

Como (4-2-3-1): Robert Sanchez; Alex Valle, Jacobo Ramon, Alberto Dossena, Hrvoje Smolcic; Maximo Perrone, Luis Milla; Kaiki Bruno, Nico Paz, Jesus Rodriguez; Tasos Douvikas.

Manchester United (4-2-3-1): Senne Lammens; Diogo Dalot, Ayden Heaven, Harry Maguire, Noussair Mazraoui; Carlos Baleba, Andrey Santos; Matheus Cunha, Youri Tielemans, Bruno Fernandes; Bryan Mbeumo.

What time is the Como vs Manchester United match?

Como vs. Manchester United kicks off on Wednesday, October 21, at 12:45 p.m. ET in the United States. The match takes place at Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia in Como, Italy, with a local kickoff time of 6:45 p.m. CTS.

• Eastern Time: 12:45 p.m.
• Central Time: 11:45 a.m.
• Mountain Time: 10:45 a.m.
• Pacific Time: 9:45 a.m.

“They’re a very explosive offense and everything that they do, they love the downfield attack,” Harris told reporters. “And when you have a quarterback like C.J. Stroud, that makes everything possible. He can make every throw.”

This is largely due to the number and quality of receivers on the roster, an advantage further enhanced by Tank Dell’s return to the Texans. Will the Giants be able to overcome Stroud and his team’s aerial firepower?

Nico Collins leads Houston’s passing attack

When CJ Stroud drops back, the Texans’ offense becomes pure electric, making their passing game an absolute nightmare for opposing secondaries. Leading the charge is Nico Collins, who remains Stroud’s go-to playmaker—already racking up 22 catches for 323 yards and 3 touchdowns through his first 4 games of the 2026 season.

But it’s not a one-man show: with weapons like Dalton Schultz, Xavier Hutchinson, and Jaylin Noel constantly stretching the field, Houston’s pass attack is easily one of the most explosive and lethal weapons in the league.

Stroud’s a bad memory for Harris

This won’t be the first time Shelby Harris and CJ Stroud share the field as opponents. The defensive tackle previously faced the quarterback in 2023 while wearing a Cleveland Browns uniform, in a postseason matchup that didn’t go well for him.

“I was in Cleveland his rookie year when he killed us in the playoffs,” Harris said. “And so, I know what he can do. I know he can make every throw out there. And so that Houston offense really, I think they are a budding offense, and they’re just waiting to explode and it’s on us to really get them to slow down.”

Giants look to get back to winning ways

After a tough 34–27 loss to the New Orleans Saints in Week 6, the Giants are eager to bounce back, clear their heads, and get back in the win column. They’ll get their shot this Sunday, October 25, 2026, when they travel to Houston to take on the Texans at NRG Stadium. Kickoff is set for 1:00 PM ET, and New York will be looking to dust off that last defeat and steal a massive road win.

Key takeaways

• CJ Stroud and the Texans feature a downfield passing attack, per Shelby Harris.
• Nico Collins leads Houston with 22 catches, 323 yards, and 3 touchdowns in four games.
• New York travels to Houston for a Week 7 matchup on October 25, 2026.

The past few days, weeks, and, why not, months have been chaotic for Detroit. The Red Wings were adamant that the worst part of Larkin’s trade drama was over just recently. And while many saw that as a potential sign that Larkin changed up his mind, it only foreshadowed the former Red Wings captain finally expanded his trade list in the NHL.

Larkin realized he wasn’t going anywhere any time soon sticking to the previous three-team list, and he’s made changes. Not without taking his sweet time to analyze the rest of the league and see which teams are expected to compete for the Stanley Cup this season, and in the next few years.

Still, two teams that have been in on Larkin and have a case to be considered Stanley Cup contenders were snubbed: the Rangers and Canadiens. It might be a tougher pill to swallow for the latter, as Larkin had fueled Montreal trade rumors after his visit to Bell Centre, in which fans chanted: “We want Larkin”. Still, that warm welcome wasn’t enough to lure the American center. His decision appears final: he will play for an U.S. based club in the NHL.

Larkin’s 10-team trade list

According to Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press, Larkin’s list is now up to 10 organizations. Essentially, Larkin has only added six or seven (no Gen Z pun intended) to his original list, which was reported to include three or four clubs: Florida Panthers, Minnesota Wild, Vegas Golden Knights, and Dallas Stars.

In addition to the usual suspects, who come up in every trade rumor mill involving an available star in the NHL, Larkin has reportedly added the Washington Capitals, Tampa Bay Lightning, Carolina Hurricanes, Utah Mammoth, New Jersey Devils, and Colorado Avalanche.

• Florida Panthers
• Minnesota Wild
• Vegas Golden Knights
• Dallas Stars
• Carolina Hurricanes
• New Jersey Devils
• Washington Capitals
• Colorado Avalanche
• Tampa Bay Lightning
• Utah Mammoth

What we learn from Larkin’s new list

As if it wasn’t clear before, it’s obvious now: Larkin wants to win the Cup, and his trade list reflects that he’s after a future with a contender in the league. In addition to the Rangers and Habs, other surprising teams left off Larkin’s list include the Buffalo Sabres and Boston Bruins.

A team like the Capitals emerges on the list as a bit of a surprise, and the Mammoth’s presence only confirms Salt Lake City’s status as a new home for Team USA stars. Larkin could join Vincent Trocheck there, as reports also point to Connor Hellebuyck potentially ending up in Utah as part of a three-team trade involving the Rangers.

The offseason and start of the 2026-27 NHL campaign have been dramatic, but it seems the answers are finally arriving.

Key takeaways

• Dylan Larkin excludes the New York Rangers and Montreal Canadiens from his trade list.
• Helene St. James reports Dylan Larkin expanded his list to 10 NHL organizations.
• Dylan Larkin added six teams including the Washington Capitals and Utah Mammoth.

How to watch Vasco da Gama vs Boca Juniors in the USA

In the United States, the match is listed for coverage on beIN SPORTS USA and beIN SPORTS en Español, with television and streaming access available through providers carrying those channels.

Fans can also watch online through Fubo or beIN SPORTS CONNECT, depending on their subscription and the package available in their area.

Can I watch Vasco da Gama vs Boca Juniors for free?

Fans in the United States can watch Vasco da Gama vs Boca Juniors for free through Fubo’s five-day free trial, provided they are eligible for the promotion. The match is available on beIN SPORTS, which is included in eligible Fubo plans.

Match Preview: What’s at Stake?

Vasco da Gama and Boca Juniors meet at the Maracana in Rio de Janeiro for the decisive second leg of the 2026 Copa Sudamericana semifinals. Vasco hold a 1-0 aggregate advantage after winning the first leg at La Bombonera on October 13, when Adson scored the only goal of the game. The Brazilian side also had to withstand pressure after being reduced to 10 men in the second half.

The stakes are significant for both clubs. Vasco are one match away from reaching the Copa Sudamericana final, while Boca must overturn the deficit to keep their continental title hopes alive. The winner of the tie will advance to the final on November 21 in Barranquilla, Colombia, where Atletico Mineiro or Montevideo City Torque await.

Vasco‘s home advantage comes with an important detail: the second leg is scheduled for the Maracana rather than their usual home ground, Sao Januario, which does not meet CONMEBOL’s minimum stadium-capacity requirements for the match. The venue was the subject of a legal dispute involving the stadium’s operators, but Brazil’s Superior Court of Justice rejected an attempt to block the game at the Maracana.

What time is the Vasco da Gama vs Boca Juniors match?

Vasco da Gama vs Boca Juniors kicks off on Tuesday, October 20, at 8:30 PM ET in the United States. The second leg of the Copa Sudamericana semifinals is scheduled for 9:30 PM local time in Rio de Janeiro.

• Eastern Time (ET): 8:30 PM
• Central Time (CT): 7:30 PM
• Mountain Time (MT): 6:30 PM
• Pacific Time (PT): 5:30 PM

Following the team’s final shootaround, Caldwell-Pope was asked about the pregame ring ceremony honoring Jalen Brunson and the Knicks‘ championship run. “If it’s their ring night, they’ve gotta take the first loss,” Caldwell-Pope told reporters.

The Knicks will raise their championship banner and receive their ring hardware before tip-off on Tuesday night, a celebration LeBron and the Sixers will be forced to watch from the visiting floor.

While speculation continues to build regarding LeBron’s future beyond the 2026-27 season, the 76ers are focused squarely on the present after making major offseason splashes, headlined by the marquee acquisition of Jaylen Brown from the rival Boston Celtics.

Predicted lineups for Knicks and Sixers

New York aims to kick off its title defense on a high note in front of a raucous home crowd, eager to prove its championship pedigree remains intact. Meanwhile, Philadelphia is looking to make an immediate statement that LeBron and company are legitimate contenders in the Eastern Conference.

Here are the predicted starting lineups for both teams:

• New York Knicks — PG: Jalen Brunson | SG: Mikal Bridges | SF: Josh Hart | PF: OG Anunoby | C: Karl-Anthony Towns
• Philadelphia 76ers — PG: Tyrese Maxey | SG: V.J. Edgecombe | SF: Jaylen Brown | PF: LeBron James | C: Joel Embiid

Key takeaways

• Kentavious Caldwell-Pope said the Knicks must take the first loss on ring night.
• New York will raise their championship banner and receive ring hardware before tip-off.
• Jaylen Brown was acquired by Philadelphia from the Celtics in a major offseason splash.

Obviously, such a decision can’t be attributed to just one factor, but when LeBron James opened up about his move to Philadelphia, he shed light on one key trait the 76ers had that no other team could offer. Rather than a thing or a trait, though, it was a player in particular who tipped the scales: Tyrese Maxey.

“When I became a free agent and we decided to let the Lakers know I wouldn’t be returning, [Maxey] was one of the first people on my line calling me: ‘Yo, what are we doing? Yo, what’s up, OG? What’s up old head? Come on down here, man; we could use you down here!’ He’s such a great person I can’t not talk to him,” LeBron James admitted during an appearance on Mind The Game podcast.

Indeed, what president of basketball operations Mike Gansey and the 76ers are currently building helped convince LeBron, but it may have been Maxey himself—and the opportunity to play alongside one of the NBA‘s best young stars, whom James respects both on and off the court—that ultimately made LeBron’s “The Decision: Part II” easier.

LeBron on his relationship with Maxey

Despite the age gap and living in opposite coasts of the country, James and Maxey have become very close in the past few years. LeBron addressed how it all started and the level of respect they hold for one another, and why he can’t wait to play next to Maxey at Xfinity Mobile Arena in South Philly.

“My relationship with Maxey goes beyond the court,” James added. “I just love everything about Maxey. Every day, you get the same person. And that is very rare in sports and super rare in life. He’s been the same person since the moment I met him before he was drafted in the NBA.

“Came in, super respectful to me, super respectful to my wife, super respectful to everybody in the house. Bright smile. Super down to earth. From the moment he got drafted to the perennial superstar that he’s becoming, nothing has changed. Nothing has changed in his demeanor. This young man is beyond his years for sure. Easy to root for.”

LeBron James’ contract in Philadelphia

As if LeBron’s comments on Maxey and the Sixers organization weren’t telling enough about his desire to play in the City of Brotherly Love, his contract might provide the final confirmation.

“King James” could’ve signed a monstrous contract, even at 41, but instead agreed to the NBA’s veteran minimum on a two-year, $8 million deal. For reference, LeBron made about $53 million with the Lakers last season, so he took quite a pay cut.

His contract also includes a player option ahead of his second season in Philly. Thus, the question of whether LeBron James will retire after the 2026-27 NBA season will remain unanswered until he makes a decision on his contract option.

LeBron James’ NBA career

Key takeaways

• Tyrese Maxey recruiting LeBron James convinced him to join the Philadelphia 76ers.
• LeBron James will play for his fourth different team in his 24th NBA season.
• LeBron James signed a two-year, $8 million veteran minimum contract with Philadelphia.

Olmo suffered an apparent injury while battling for possession in the midfield. Unable to continue, Barcelona‘s head coach opted to pull the playmaker off the pitch to avoid risking further damage.

To fill the void, Flick called on Fermin Lopez for the remainder of the match. With that move, both PSG and Barcelona have now made a substitution prior to halftime, as Ousmane Dembele was also forced off early.

Following the tactical change, PSG broke through via a long-range strike from Desire Doue. The electric goal underscored that this was no ordinary Champions League fixture, as two of the league phase’s top contenders clashed for supreme standing.

Olmo’s contributions on the field against PSG

During his time on the pitch, Olmo served as an engine for Barcelona’s attack in this high-stakes fixture in Paris. In his 27-minute shift, he registered one shot on target—which was denied by the PSG defense—while completing a perfect 11-for-11 on his passes.

Now, Flick must navigate the remainder of the match without one of his primary playmakers, though all eyes turn to what Fermín López can deliver off the bench for Barcelona.

Key takeaways

Dani Olmo was subbed off before halftime for Barcelona due to an apparent injury.

Fermin Lopez replaced Olmo as Barcelona’s first-half substitute against PSG.

Desire Doue scored a long-range strike to give PSG the lead after the change.

The French forward was trying to reach the opposition’s penalty area when he felt a sharp twinge in the back of his leg while sprinting. Fearing the injury could be serious, Luis Enrique’s coaching staff decided to substitute him.

Both PSG and Barcelona are involved in an entertaining clash, with both teams among the contenders for the UEFA Champions League title. The next step will be to await the results of Dembele’s medical tests to determine the extent of his injury.

Dani Olmo was also substituted

Barcelona were also hit by injuries during the match. Dani Olmo had to be substituted shortly after Dembele was forced off, with the midfielder also appearing to suffer a muscle injury.

Hansi Flick quickly turned to his bench, bringing on Ferran Torres to reshape his team’s attack. Injuries have clearly taken a heavy toll on both sides in this match.

Furthermore, his deal with the 76ers ties him to the franchise for the next two seasons, including a player option following the current campaign. As a result, all signs point to James remaining a force in the NBA for some time to come.

With the goal of winning another championship, this time with a new team, the No. 23 continues to cement his legacy in sports history. This time, the 76ers will have the privilege of benefiting from all his talent.

LeBron James’ contract situation

LeBron James took a massive financial sacrifice to chase ring number five in Philly, signing a two-year, veteran-minimum contract worth roughly $8 million. The deal pays him $3.88 million for the 2026-27 season and includes a $4.07 million player option for 2027-28, marking a staggering $48+ million pay cut from his previous Lakers salary.

By taking a bare-minimum deal, King James gave the Sixers front office maximum roster flexibility to build a championship-caliber core around him, Joel Embiid, and Tyrese Maxey.

Chasing another ring

At 41 years old, LeBron James isn’t ready to slow down anytime soon, pivoting his sights to the City of Brotherly Love for what could be the ultimate final chapter of his career. Now rocking a 76ers jersey alongside Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, King James is officially chasing ring number five to solidify his legendary status.

Having already collected four NBA titles across three different franchises—two with the Miami Heat, one with the Cleveland Cavaliers, and one with the Los Angeles Lakers—LeBron steps into Philly looking to bring that championship pedigree and lead the Sixers back to the top of the league.

Key takeaways

• The 2026–27 season marks LeBron James’s record-setting 24th year as an NBA professional.
• LeBron James signed a two-year, veteran-minimum contract worth roughly $8 million with the 76ers.
• At 41 years old, LeBron James is officially chasing his fifth NBA championship in Philadelphia.

According to the club, Barcelona will don the previous season’s orange threads to comply with UEFA equipment regulations, as their current primary and secondary kits contrast too closely with PSG‘s home strip.

With both clubs sharing similar primary color schemes, the potential for an on-field clash posed a visibility hazard for players, officials, and viewers alike. As a result, Barca will reprise the vibrant look from last season, a kit that carries good fortune after being worn during their dominant 8-3 aggregate triumph over Newcastle in the Round of 16.

Meanwhile, PSG will wear their traditional blue, red, and white home kit as they defend home turf tonight at the Parc des Princes. With broadcast details and kickoff times locked in for U.S. viewers for PSG and Barcelona, excitement is building to see how the rare kit matchup translates on television and from the stands.

H2H between PSG and Barcelona

The head-to-head history between Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona stands as one of modern European soccer’s most dramatic and closely contested rivalries. Across 14 competitive European fixtures, the two powerhouse clubs remain deadlocked with five victories apiece and four draws.

The fixture has become synonymous with high-stakes Champions League knockout drama, explosive offensive firepower, and breathtaking turnarounds, producing an astonishing 57 total goals across their meetings.

Defining moments between Barcelona and PSG

The rivalry achieved legendary status during the 2016–17 Champions League Round of 16. After PSG dismantled Barcelona 4–0 at the Parc des Princes in the opening leg, the Spanish giants staged “La Remontada” (“The Comeback”) at Camp Nou, securing an incredible 6–1 victory to pull off a 6–5 aggregate shocker.

More recent knockout encounters have leaned in PSG’s favor, headlined by Kylian Mbappé’s memorable hat-trick in a 4–1 win at Camp Nou in 2021, as well as PSG’s 4–1 away triumph in the 2023–24 quarter-finals to send Barca packing once again.

Key takeaways

• FC Barcelona will wear their 2025-26 orange alternate kit against Paris Saint-Germain today.
• UEFA equipment regulations required Barcelona’s kit change to avoid a visibility hazard.
• Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona remain deadlocked with five victories apiece across 14 meetings.

Neither Rodri nor Frenkie de Jong will feature in Barcelona’s starting XI today against PSG, with Flick electing to start both on the bench. De Jong continues to work his way back from injury and is expected to feature as a second-half substitute to gain match fitness.

As for Spain’s Euro-winning midfielder Rodri, he featured in Barcelona’s previous fixture and is fully healthy, making his bench role a tactical decision by Flick; he remains a potent option as a substitute.

Wearing its 2025-26 orange third kit in Paris against PSG, Barcelona enters a raucous environment with official lineups now locked in for this critical league phase matchup.

Confirmed lineups for PSG and Barcelona

With Lamine Yamal and Raphinha spearheading the attack for Barcelona and Ousmane Dembele linking up with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia for PSG, that will not count with Nuno Mendes today, fans are set for an explosive night in the French capital.

Here are the confirmed starting XIs and substitutes:

• PSG
• Starting XI:
  • Goalkeeper: Matvey Safonov
  • Defenders: Achraf Hakimi, Marquinhos, Willian Pacho, Lucas Hernandez
  • Midfielders: Joao Neves, Vitinha, Fabian Ruiz,
  • Forwards: Desire Doue, Ousmane Dembele, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia
• Substitutes:
  • Lucas Beraldo (DF), Illia Zabarnyi (DF), Ferran Torres (FW), Maghnes Akliouche (MF), Lucas Digne (DF), Mika Godts (FW), Senny Mayulu (MF), Dro Fernandez (MF), Lucas Chevalier (GK), Warren Zaire-Emery (MF), Quentin Ndjantou (FW), Adam Mouak (GK)
• Barcelona
• Starting XI:
  • Goalkeeper: Joan Garcia
  • Defenders: Joao Cancelo, Pau Cubarsi, Gerard Martin, Xavi Espart
  • Midfielders: Marc Bernal, Pedri, Dani Olmo
  • Forwards: Lamine Yamal, Anthony Gordon, Raphinha
• Substitutes:
  • Alejandro Balde (DF), Brian Farinas (MF), Gavi (MF), Fermin Lopez (MF), Gabriel Jesus (FW), Wojciech Szczssny (GK), Karim Adeyemi (MF), Rodri (MF), Frenkie de Jong (MF), Dominik Livakovic (GK), Hamza Abdelkarim (FW)

Key takeaways

• Hansi Flick benched Rodri and Frenkie de Jong for Barcelona’s match against PSG, due to tactical decision.
• Barcelona will wear their 2025-26 third kit for today’s Champions League match.
• Lamine Yamal and Raphinha lead Barcelona’s starting attack in their confirmed lineup.

Without a clear-cut No. 1 running back, at least in Harbaugh’s eyes, it’s time for the coach and players to work together and figure out a solution to the Giants’ struggles on the ground. Clearly, handing the ball off to four different running backs and hoping one of them builds momentum and rides the hot hand wasn’t working for New York.

For the time being, the G-Men may still have no better option than to keep banging their heads against the wall. Better the devil you know, they say.

“I would love for us to be in that kind of a circumstance. A Derrick Henry circumstance or a Saquon Barkley circumstance or whatever it might be,” Harbaugh said, according to transcript from the Giants. “That would be great, and we haven’t. Our run game hasn’t earned that yet, and none of those guys have.”

Rushing offense struggles without Skattebo

Thus, for the time being, the Giants will keep pounding the rock with their collection of running backs. Harris is now out of the picture, though, leaving only: Cam Skattebo, Tyrone Tracy Jr., and Devin Singletary. Of the bunch, Skattebo is clearly the main ball-carrier.

“My advice would be to any player, do the most you can with the opportunities you get. Make the most of those opportunities and you’re sure to get more opportunities. Do something,” Harbaugh stated.

Clearly, the trio of Harris, Tracy Jr, and Singletary didn’t do enough with their opportunities (on the ground game) while Skattebo was kept on the sidelines in Week 6.

Skattebo could be back in RB1 role

Even though he accepted the punishment handed out by Harbaugh and the Giants, it’s plain to see that he’ll take the stick once, but he’ll want the carrot in Week 7, especially after watching the team’s rushing deficiencies from the sidelines and seeing how much he was missed by both fans and teammates.

Even Harbaugh may have realized that Skattebo’s benching came back to bite the team, but by then, it was already too late. The harm was done, and Harbaugh chose to stay committed to the bit.

NY Giants vie to get back in win column

As costly as Skattebo’s inactive role was, the Giants were still a controversial pass-interference no call away from tying the game. They also might have tied it—or potentially defeated the New Orleans Saints in Week 6—if JJ McCarthy had seen Malik Nabers wide open in the end zone. Unfortunately for New York, the subbed-on quarterback was too busy running for his life in the pocket.

The lesson appears to have been learned, but only time will tell. We’ll find out when the Giants take on the Houston Texans on the road. How much Skattebo and the rest of the running backs play will be very telling of how Harbaugh truly feels about the room in East Rutherford.

Key takeaways

• John Harbaugh stated the New York Giants’ running attack has not earned a featured RB role.
• Head coach John Harbaugh advised players to do the most with their opportunities to get more carries.
• The New York Giants will play their upcoming game against the Houston Texans on the road.

Mendes is sidelined with a thigh injury and has been ruled out for today’s match. In his absence, Paris is expected to lean on Lucas Digne to anchor the left side of defense against the Catalan giants.

With PSG and Barcelona deadlocked at the top of the table on both points and goal differential, anticipation is sky-high. Ousmane Dembele is confirmed to spearhead the attack for the hosts against his former club, while Barcelona counters with teenage sensation Lamine Yamal leading their frontline.

With kickoff time and broadcast details locked in across the US for PSG and Barcelona, American fans are gearing up for what promises to be one of the marquee matchups of the Champions League group phase.

Confirmed lineups for PSG vs Barcelona

Beyond Mendes’ absence, PSG will look to flex their squad depth, with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Desire Doue featuring alongside Dembele in a potent frontline. Meanwhile, Barcelona must overcome key defensive injuries of their own, as both Eric García and Jules Kounde remain unavailable.

Here are the confirmed lineups for today’s showdown:

• PSG
• Starting XI:
  • Goalkeeper: Matvey Safonov
  • Defenders: Achraf Hakimi, Marquinhos, Willian Pacho, Lucas Hernandez
  • Midfielders: Joao Neves, Vitinha, Fabian Ruiz,
  • Forwards: Desire Doue, Ousmane Dembele, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia
• Barcelona
• Starting XI:
  • Goalkeeper: Joan Garcia
  • Defenders: Joao Cancelo, Pau Cubarsi, Gerard Martin, Xavi Espart
  • Midfielders: Marc Bernal, Pedri, Dani Olmo
  • Forwards: Lamine Yamal, Anthony Gordon, Raphinha

The winner of today’s marquee matchup will claim sole possession of top spot in the Champions League standings, at least until Aston Villa take on Viking tomorrow.

Key takeaways

• Nuno Mendes is ruled out for Paris Saint-Germain today due to a thigh injury.
• Ousmane Dembele is leading PSG’s attack against his former club Barcelona.
• Barcelona will be without injured defenders Eric Garcia and Jules Kounde today.

Manning can sense the pressure, yet he isn’t running away from it. Instead, he delivered a bold statement for the rest of the Longhorns to hear. If he’s going down, he’s going down swinging. If he’s about to play his final games as QB1 at The Forty Acres, he’ll make them count, playing to the best of his abilities and slinging the rock like there’s no tomorrow. Because there may actually not be.

“I’m gonna die on the hill of letting it rip,” Manning admitted, via Orange Bloods, during a press conference ahead of the Longhorns’ visit to the No. 7 Ole Miss Rebels on Oct. 25. While he vies to turn the page and find his mojo again, Manning understands where Texas’ sudden change is coming from. “I told (Sark) I expect myself to play better. I haven’t put good film on tape for the last five weeks.”

Crazy 2026 season for Manning

It’s been a roller-coaster season for Manning, who went from being the subject of bust-versus-Heisman-favorite debates in the blink of an eye to going from Heisman favorite to bust all over again.

Sarkisian knows better than to believe Manning is as great as either extreme suggests, but it’s clear he’s taking notice of the junior quarterback’s struggles. With Texas’ season heading for the gutters, Sarkisian’s hand won’t tremble as he steers the team in a different direction.

Sarkisian’s job is on the line, too

At the end of the day, Sarkisian wants what’s best for Manning, but his own job is also on the line. He isn’t Manning’s personal development coach; he’s the head coach at the University of Texas in Austin. If Manning is holding the Longhorns back, it’s only right to at least explore what things could look like with another signal-caller under center.

Sarkisian and the Horns know Lacey would also be up for some tough challenges should he be named the starting quarterback, though. In more ways than one, it seems like the decision to give Lacey some looks on offense might be a way for Texas to pull Manning’s ear and expect a strong reaction from the heir to football’s royal quarterback family.

Whether it pays off or not, only time will tell, and the future of the Longhorns in the 2026 NCAA football season will depend on that.

Key takeaways

• Steve Sarkisian plans to increase KJ Lacey’s workload while Arch Manning remains starter.
• Arch Manning vowed to keep “letting it rip” before facing the Ole Miss Rebels.
• Arch Manning acknowledged he has not put good film on tape for five weeks.

Brown joins a team that is clearly a contender in the Eastern Conference. Not only do the 76ers have Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, but they also managed to secure the arrival of none other than LeBron James.

Still, the trade was not without its benefits for Boston. Brad Stevens managed to acquire Paul George, along with two first-round draft picks and two second-round picks.

Brown’s legacy in Boston

Jaylen Brown’s decade in Boston is nothing short of legendary, cementing him as a cornerstone of modern Celtics history. Drafted as the 3rd overall pick in 2016, JB went from a raw, high-upside rookie to an absolute juggernaut on both ends of the floor.

Over his tenured run in Beantown, he built a resume packed with hardware: an NBA Champion and Finals MVP in 2024, Eastern Conference Finals MVP (2024), a 5x NBA All-Star, a 2x All-NBA Team selection, and an All-Rookie Second Team nod. Alongside Jayson Tatum, he led Boston to six Eastern Conference Finals and two Finals appearances, consistently proving he was built for the biggest moments before bringing Banner 18 home.

Paul George aims to make history in Boston

Now wearing the iconic green and white in Boston, Paul George is officially on the hunt for the one thing missing from his star-studded resume: an NBA championship ring, as PG-13 has never won a title in his career. Joining forces with Jayson Tatum, George steps into a prime situation with a franchise that knows what it takes to get to the top—the Celtics last won the championship in 2024 (bringing home Banner 18).

With Tatum’s leadership and PG’s elite two-way play, the duo will be aiming to add another banner to TD Garden’s rafters and finally get George that elusive ring.

Key takeaways

• Jaylen Brown left the Boston Celtics to join the Philadelphia 76ers.
• Brad Stevens acquired Paul George, two first-round and two second-round picks.
• Paul George seeks his first NBA championship ring with the Boston Celtics.

“We feel like he’s in a pretty good spot,” LaFleur told reporters. “He’s been training, but he’s missed the exposure to football.” Clearly, the lack of game rhythm could be a decisive factor in Jacobs’ potential absence at Ford Field.

Despite this, LaFleur still believes Jacobs can make a significant impact on the team once he steps onto the field. “I think he’s an elite-level back. He’s certainly not going to hurt it,” the HC also added. “I think he can provide a spark.”

Green Bay has managed to get its season back on track, currently holding a 4–2 record. Will Jacobs return? According to LaFleur, that remains to be seen. “That’s going to be determined throughout the course of the week, see where he’s at, see how he’s feeling, and then we’ll make a decision.”

Why the Packers need Josh Jacobs back?

The Green Bay Packers are desperately feeling the absence of Josh Jacobs, as their ground game has completely stalled out so far in the 2026 NFL season. After a powerhouse 2025 campaign where Jacobs anchored Green Bay’s backfield with 929 rushing yards and 13 rushing touchdowns (14 total), the offense has struggled to replicate that physical, workhorse presence.

Without him setting the tone, the Packers’ rushing attack has cratered to a sluggish 2.9 yards per carry and just 359 total rushing yards through six games, placing heavy pressure on Jordan Love and the passing game. Getting Jacobs back isn’t just about adding a star back; it’s about restoring balance, controlling the tempo, and taking the heat off the entire offense.

Key takeaways

• Josh Jacobs has yet to make his debut in the 2026 NFL season.
• Matt LaFleur cannot guarantee Josh Jacobs’ availability for the Week 7 game.
• Josh Jacobs anchored Green Bay’s 2025 campaign with 929 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns.

How to Watch Porto vs PSV in the USA

Porto host PSV Eindhoven on Tuesday, October 20. Fans in the United States can watch the game on CBS Sports Network and Fubo, with additional streaming access through Paramount+ and ViX.

Can I Watch Porto vs PSV for Free?

Yes, eligible viewers may be able to watch Porto vs PSV through Fubo‘s 5-day free trial. Live Soccer TV lists a five-day trial for this match, and its broadcast information includes CBS Sports Network through Fubo’s Elite plan.

Match Preview: What’s at Stake?

Porto and PSV Eindhoven meet at Estadio do Dragao on Tuesday with both teams looking for their first victory in the 2026-27 UEFA Champions League league phase. Porto lost 2-0 to Manchester City in their opening fixture before suffering a 3-2 defeat against Real Betis on October 14. PSV, meanwhile, drew 1-1 against Shakhtar Donetsk before losing 1-0 away to RB Leipzig. The Portuguese side enters Matchday 3 without a point, while PSV have collected one from their first two matches.

Despite their disappointing European results, Porto have been strong domestically under Francesco Farioli. The Dragons won their opening eight Primeira Liga fixtures and will aim to translate that form into continental success. Their home advantage could be significant, particularly after winning six of their previous seven competitive matches at Estadio do Dragao.

PSV, coached by Peter Bosz, face pressure to respond after consecutive defeats across competitions. Their 1-0 loss at Leipzig was followed by a 2-1 defeat to ADO Den Haag in the Eredivisie. Injuries have also affected the Dutch side, with Ricardo Pepi, Sam Lammers and Paul Wanner among the players expected to miss the trip to Portugal.

Porto vs PSV: Predicted Lineups

Porto (4-3-3): Diogo Costa; Francisco Moura, Jakub Kiwior, Pablo Rosario, Martim Fernandes; Gabri Veiga, Alan Varela, Victor Froholdt; Pepe, Fabio Silva, Borja Sainz.

PSV (4-2-3-1): Matej Kovar; Filip Kostic, Armando Obispo, Lutsharel Geertruida, Sergino Dest; Mauro Junior, Kaishu Sano; Ruben van Bommel, Guus Til, Ivan Perisic; Sven Mijnans.

What Time Is the Porto vs PSV Match?

Porto vs PSV kicks off on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at 3:00 PM ET in the United States. The UEFA Champions League league-phase match will be played at Estadio do Dragao in Porto, Portugal, with a scheduled local kickoff of 8:00 PM.

• Eastern Time (ET): 3:00 PM
• Central Time (CT): 2:00 PM
• Mountain Time (MT): 1:00 PM
• Pacific Time (PT): 12:00 PM

One notable detail is that Harris was named the Giants’ RB1 last weekend in their loss to the New Orleans Saints. Now, John Harbaugh will have to reshape his backfield moving forward.

After six weeks of the 2026 NFL season, no running back has managed to establish himself as the team’s clear starter. For now, Harris has taken a different path than his now former teammates.

Harris’ latest complaint

The constant rotation in the Giants’ backfield has affected the players in some way, preventing them from establishing themselves as starters. Najee Harris himself highlighted this issue in recent hours, according to Greg Johnson on X.

“It’s hard to get in a rhythm with one or two plays. The first couple runs will be like, ‘OK, how are they playing it?’ And then the next ones will be, ‘OK, this is how you attack it.’ But if you’re getting a play here and then get taken out for a series, there’s nothing you could do. That’s why I’m saying, ‘I don’t know.’ I’ve never been through none of this before.”

How do the Giants’ backfield depth chart shape up?

Harris’ sudden departure from the Big Blue had a direct impact on the Giants’ running back room. Cam Skattebo remains at the top of the depth chart, followed by Tyrone Tracy Jr. and Devin Singletary.

Key takeaways

• New York Giants released veteran running back Najee Harris following their recent backfield rotation frustration.
• Najee Harris expressed confusion over losing rhythm due to inconsistent playing time and single-play rotations.
• Cam Skattebo leads depth chart ahead of Tyrone Tracy Jr. and Devin Singletary after Harris’ departure.

In a surprising move, the official Ballon d’Or social media channels recently revealed that Ronaldo is currently leading the fan vote for the honor. Meanwhile, Messi remains in contention for the traditional Ballon d’Or as well, positioning the Argentine legend for a potential ninth career trophy.

Adding to the intrigue—and controversy—fans are reporting that participating in the voting requires a fee of €1 per vote. According to the official website, each paid vote includes an exclusive, high-resolution digital photograph of a Ballon d’Or winner from their award-winning year.

After being snubbed from the primary Ballon d’Or shortlist this year, the B.O.A.T. award offers Ronaldo a high-profile platform to return to the Paris ceremony after a four-year absence. Crucially, the voting format does not judge a player’s body of work as a whole; instead, voters select a specific single-year Ballon d’Or campaign from Ronaldo or Messi.

The full list of nominees

Alongside Ronaldo and Messi, several all-time greats have been nominated for the inaugural B.O.A.T. award, including Ronaldo Nazario, Michel Platini, and Johan Cruyff. Here is the full list of nominees and their eligible award years:

• Cristiano Ronaldo (2017, 2016, 2014, 2013, 2008)
• Lionel Messi (2023, 2021, 2019, 2015, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009)
• Ronaldo Nazário (2002, 1997)
• Marco van Basten (1992, 1989, 1988)
• Michel Platini (1985, 1984, 1983)
• Karl-Heinz Rummenigge (1981, 1980)
• Kevin Keegan (1979, 1978)
• Franz Beckenbauer (1976, 1972)
• Johan Cruyff (1974, 1973, 1971)
• Alfredo Di Stéfano (1959, 1957)

Why are there not other big names?

Under the criteria established by France Football, only multi-time Ballon d’Or winners—players who claimed the honor at least twice in their careers—were eligible for nomination. Iconic figures like Pele and Diego Maradona were excluded due to historical eligibility rules; prior to 1995, the Ballon d’Or was strictly awarded to European players, precluding non-European stars from contending during their prime.

Even as a fan-voted honor, anticipation is high surrounding France Football’s new flagship trophy. In soccer’s endless G.O.A.T. debate, this new hardware might just offer a definitive verdict on who stands above the rest in football history.

Key takeaways

• France Football introduced the Ballon d’Or of All Time award for the 2026 gala.
• Cristiano Ronaldo currently leads the fan vote for the inaugural award.
• Fans are required to pay a €1 fee per vote on the website.

How to Watch PSG vs Barcelona in the USA

Paris Saint-Germain host Barcelona on Tuesday, October 20. Fans in the United States can watch the match live on Paramount+, TUDN USA, UniMás, TUDN.com, Univision NOW, the TUDN App and ViX.

Can I Watch PSG vs Barcelona for Free?

A free stream of the full PSG vs Barcelona match has not been confirmed in the United States. Paramount+ and the platforms generally require a subscription to access their live UEFA Champions League coverage.

Match Preview: What’s at Stake?

Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona meet in one of the most anticipated fixtures of Matchday 3 of the 2026-27 UEFA Champions League. Both teams have won their opening two league-phase games and enter the contest with six points, making this a valuable opportunity to strengthen their positions in the standings. PSG defeated Manchester City 4-2 on October 14, while Barcelona opened their campaign with victories over Galatasaray and Feyenoord.

PSG will look to capitalize on their home advantage at the Parc des Princes as they continue their title defense. Luis Enrique‘s team has demonstrated its attacking quality against top European opposition, including the victory over Manchester City. Barcelona, meanwhile, arrive in Paris in excellent form under Hansi Flick, with Lamine Yamal among the players expected to play a major role in the team’s attacking plans.

The matchup also features a reunion between Luis Enrique and Barcelona, the club he coached before taking charge of PSG. Both sides favor possession and attacking soccer, which could make midfield control and defensive transitions decisive. With the league phase determining which teams qualify directly for the round of 16, a victory would provide an important early advantage in the race for a top-eight finish.

PSG vs Barcelona: Predicted Lineups

PSG (4-3-3): Matvey Safonov; Lucas Hernandez, Willian Pacho, Marquinhos, Achraf Hakimi; Fabian Ruiz, Vitinha, Joao Neves; Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Ousmane Dembele, Desire Doue.

Barcelona (4-3-3): Joan Garcia; Xavi Espart, Gerard Martin, Pau Cubarsi, Joao Cancelo; Pedri, Fermin Lopez, Rodri; Anthony Gordon, Raphinha, Lamine Yamal.

What Time Is the PSG vs Barcelona Match?

PSG vs Barcelona kicks off on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at 3:00 PM ET in the United States. The UEFA Champions League league-phase match will take place at the Parc des Princes in Paris, with a scheduled local kickoff of 9:00 PM CEST.

• Eastern Time (ET): 3:00 PM
• Central Time (CT): 2:00 PM
• Mountain Time (MT): 1:00 PM
• Pacific Time (PT): 12:00 PM

How to Watch Liverpool vs Villarreal in the USA

Viewers can stream the match through Paramount+ and ViX. Check the match listing before kickoff to confirm that Liverpool vs Villarreal is included in your plan.

Can I Watch Liverpool vs Villarreal for Free?

There is no confirmed free streaming option for the full Liverpool vs Villarreal match in the United States. Paramount+ requires a subscription for live UEFA Champions League coverage, and access through ViX also require a paid plan.

Match Preview: What’s at Stake?

Liverpool welcome Villarreal to Anfield on Tuesday looking to extend their perfect start to the 2026-27 UEFA Champions League campaign. The Reds have collected six points from their first two matches, beating Atletico Madrid 2-1 before recording an emphatic 6-3 victory over LASK on October 14.

Villarreal arrive in England after earning three points from their opening two European fixtures. The Spanish side lost 3-2 to Borussia Dortmund before bouncing back with a 3-1 victory over Napoli on October 13.

Sitting 14th with three points, Inigo Perez‘s team has an opportunity to make a statement against one of the competition’s most experienced clubs and improve their position in the standings.

The historical record adds another layer to the matchup. Liverpool and Villarreal previously met in the 2015-16 Europa League semifinals and the 2021-22 Champions League semifinals.

Liverpool advanced on both occasions, winning 3-1 on aggregate in the Europa League and 5-2 on aggregate in the Champions League. Villarreal will be eager to produce a different outcome this time around, while Liverpool look to capitalize on their home advantage.

Liverpool vs Villarreal: Predicted Lineups

Liverpool (4-2-3-1): Alisson Becker; Kostas Tsimikas, Jeremy Jacquet, Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez; Trey Nyoni, Ryan Gravenberch; Rio Ngumoha, Florian Wirtz, Bradley Barcola; Lewis Koumas.

Villarreal (4-4-2): Luiz Junior; Carlos Romero, Renato Veiga, Pau Navarro, Santiago Mourino; Alberto Moleiro, Pape Gueye, Santi Comesana, Nathan Saliba; Georges Mikautadze, Gerard Moreno.

What Time Is the Liverpool vs Villarreal Match?

Liverpool vs Villarreal kicks off on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at 3:00 PM ET in the United States. The UEFA Champions League league-phase match will be played at Anfield, with a scheduled kickoff of 8:00 PM BST in Liverpool.

• Eastern Time (ET): 3:00 PM
• Central Time (CT): 2:00 PM
• Mountain Time (MT): 1:00 PM
• Pacific Time (PT): 12:00 PM

How to Watch Stuttgart vs Atletico Madrid in the USA

Fans in the United States can watch the game live on Paramount+ and DAZN USA, with streaming access depending on their subscription. CBS Sports Golazo also provides UEFA Champions League coverage and analysis.

Can I Watch Stuttgart vs Atletico Madrid for Free?

There is no confirmed free streaming option specifically for Stuttgart vs Atletico Madrid in the United States. Paramount+ requires a paid subscription to access its live UEFA Champions League coverage.

Match Preview: What’s at Stake?

Stuttgart and Atletico Madrid meet for the first time in a competitive fixture on Tuesday, with both clubs aiming to build momentum in the 2026-27 UEFA Champions League.

The game marks the third matchday of the league phase, in which all 36 teams compete in a single standings table. The top eight qualify directly for the round of 16, while teams finishing ninth through 24th enter the knockout phase play-offs.

Stuttgart have made an encouraging start in Europe, winning their opening two matches. They defeated Viking 3-1 before recording a convincing 3-0 away victory over Slovan Bratislava on October 14.

However, Sebastian Hoeneb‘s team suffered a 1-0 Bundesliga defeat to Hamburger SV over the weekend, highlighting the contrast between its European results and domestic struggles.

Atletico Madrid arrive in Germany in strong form. Diego Simeone‘s side beat Manchester United 2-0 on October 13, extending their winning run across competitions to six matches, according to pre-match reporting. They will look to carry that momentum into Europe and collect another important result away from home.

Stuttgart vs Atletico Madrid: Predicted Lineups

Stuttgart (4-2-3-1): Dennis Seimen; Ramon Hendriks, Julian Chabot, Finn Jeltsch, Josha Vagnoman; Angelo Stiller, Grischa Promel; Chris Fuhrich, Deniz Undav, Bilal El Khannouss; Dzenan Pejcinovic.

Atletico Madrid (4-4-2): Jan Oblak; Alejandro Grimaldo, David Hancko, Marc Pubill, Marcos Llorente; Alex Baena, Morten Hjulmand, Pablo Barrios, Giuliano Simeone; Julian Alvarez, Lee Kang-in.

What Time Is the Stuttgart vs Atletico Madrid Match?

Stuttgart vs Atletico Madrid kicks off on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at 3:00 PM ET in the United States. The league-phase match will take place at the MHPArena in Stuttgart, Germany, with a scheduled local kickoff of 9:00 PM CEST.

• Eastern Time (ET): 3:00 PM
• Central Time (CT): 2:00 PM
• Mountain Time (MT): 1:00 PM
• Pacific Time (PT): 12:00 PM

With NBC and Peacock carrying the season-opening matchup, the ceremony will feature several special moments. One of them will be the national anthem, performed by rising artist Morgan Taylor.

The singer, a St. Louis native and 2025 Berklee College of Music graduate, has built her profile through soulful vocals and live performances, with a style rooted in gospel and contemporary R&B.

Who is Morgan Taylor, the R&B artist singing the national anthem?

Morgan Taylor is a rising R&B singer and songwriter from St. Louis, Missouri. Known professionally onstage as BIG MO, she combines contemporary R&B with the gospel influences that shaped her voice from an early age.

She graduated from Berklee College of Music in 2025 and has built her reputation through live performances and original music. She began singing at nine years old, performing in church congregations in her hometown before developing her own identity as an R&B artist.

Growing up listening to artists such as Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey also influenced her musical direction. Her background in gospel continues to inform her vocal style, which blends emotional delivery with contemporary production.

Her music career includes the EP Love Bombed (Love, Loss and Lessons), released in January 2025, along with singles such as “Outside (That’s PeriodT)” and “Cut Off”. She has also collaborated with producers and songwriters, including Grammy-winning producer Jeremiah Adkins, as she continues to establish herself in the R&B scene.

What time is the Celtics vs. Pistons game on NBA Opening Night?

The Celtics vs. Pistons game tips off at 3 PM ET on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit. The matchup opens the 2026-27 NBA regular season and will air nationally on NBC, with streaming available on Peacock.

The afternoon matchup is the first game of a three-game NBA Tip-Off broadcast, a first for the league’s season-opening day. The 76ers will then visit the defending champion Knicks at 7 PM ET, followed by the Thunder against the Spurs at 9:30 PM ET.

How to Watch Al Nassr vs NEOM in the USA

Al Nassr host NEOM on Tuesday, October 20. Fans in the United States can watch the game live on FOX Deportes, FOX Soccer Plus and FOX One, with streaming access also available through Fubo.

Can I Watch Al Nassr vs NEOM for Free?

Yes, eligible viewers can watch Al Nassr vs NEOM through Fubo‘s 5-day free trial. The platform’s official match page lists the game on FOX Deportes and currently displays a “Try for free” option.

Match Preview: What’s at Stake?

Al Nassr enter Matchweek 10 in third place with 19 points from eight games, having won six, drawn one and lost one. Ange Postecoglou‘s side is also on a two-game winning streak in the Saudi Pro League, most recently beating Diriyah 3-0. The defending champions will be looking for another three points at home as they attempt to stay close to the teams above them in the title race.

Cristiano Ronaldo remains the headline figure for Al Nassr. The Portuguese forward has scored four goals in seven league appearances this season, and he arrives at this match having scored in each of the club’s last two games across competitions. He also scored in Al Nassr’s 3-1 AFC Champions League Elite victory over Neftchi on October 12.

NEOM have made an impressive start to their first Saudi Pro League campaign and currently sit among the upper positions in the standings. Christophe Galtier‘s team has 16 points from nine matches, although it enters this fixture after a 1-0 defeat against Al-Ettifaq. Alexandre Lacazette is one of the visitors’ biggest threats, with six goal contributions in his first eight league appearances this season.

Al Nassr vs NEOM: Predicted Lineups

Al-Nassr (4-4-2): Bento; Awad Aman, Inigo Martinez, Mohamed Simakan, Nawaf Boushal; Sadio Mane, Abdullah Al-Khaibari, Samu Costa, Kingsley Coman; Cristiano Ronaldo, Joao Felix.

NEOM SC (4-4-2): Marcin Bulka; Islam Hawsawi, Nathan Zeze, Alpha Sarr, Khamis Al-Dawsari; Mohannad Abu Taha, Valentin Vada, Abdulmalik Al-Oyayari, Giorgos Masouras; Said Benrahma, Alexandre Lacazette.

What Time Is the Al Nassr vs NEOM Match?

Al Nassr vs NEOM kicks off on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at 2:00 PM ET in the United States. The Saudi Pro League Matchweek 10 fixture will be played at Al-Awwal Park in Riyadh.

• Eastern Time (ET): 2:00 PM
• Central Time (CT): 1:00 PM
• Mountain Time (MT): 12:00 PM
• Pacific Time (PT): 11:00 AM

According to WFAN’s Sal Licata, the Yankees plan to keep Boone at the helm of their coaching staff for next season, a report quickly backed up across social media by major MLB insiders, including ESPN‘s Jeff Passan.

Along with public backing from general manager Brian Cashman prior to their postseason elimination, Boone has contractual leverage on his side: he is entering the final year of his current deal. The Yankees appear content to let that agreement run its course through next season rather than making an immediate change.

At the same time, the front office is looking abroad to bolster its roster, with scouts closely monitoring overseas talent, including high school pitching phenom Shoki Oda out of Japan. The impending moves create plenty of intrigue around the organization’s winter blueprint.

Is there a potential contract extension for Boone?

While Licata confirmed Boone’s return for next year, he noted that the manager is not in line for a contract extension. Those comments sets up the 2027 season to potentially be Boone’s last managing the Bronx Bombers.

As the front office evaluates its 2027 roster, third base remains a key area of focus. With Post columnist Joel Sherman reporting on a potential departure for Ryan McMahon, the Yankees could turn to Japanese standout Teruaki Sato of the Hanshin Tigers as a high-upside alternative.

A report emerged regarding Yankees’ owner upset

According to YES Network anchor Michael Kay, managing general partner Hal Steinbrenner was visibly fuming following the Yankees’ postseason exit at the hands of the Tampa Bay Rays.

While the mood across the clubhouse and front office remains tense, the organization is banking on an aggressive offseason overhaul to retool the roster and position the franchise for a deep postseason run in 2027.

Key takeaways

• Reports confirm the Yankees plan to keep Aaron Boone as manager next season.
• However, there is not a contract extension expected for Boone.
• Managing general partner Hal Steinbrenner was visibly fuming after New York’s playoff exit.

On the Eagles’ depth chart, Payton Cole is listed as the primary backup option behind McKee. Further down the chart is Joe Milton III, who was recently signed for this team.

Hurts’ situation is undoubtedly a blow that no one within the franchise saw coming. Significant injuries have hit the Eagles hard, a team that entered the season with serious aspirations of winning the NFC East. Now, the big question is how they will overcome these losses and keep their hopes alive in a division that leaves little room for error.

More details on Hurts’ situation

On the health front, Jalen Hurts is temporarily stepping away from football activities for the remainder of the season, after being diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis and bilateral pulmonary emboli following additional medical evaluations, according to insider Ari Meirov on X.

The good news is that he remains clinically stable, though his treatment requires him to be on blood thinners, which naturally sidelined him for now. Fortunately, according to his agent Nicole Lynn, the long-term outlook is “very good,” with doctors fully expecting a complete recovery and zero lasting impact on his career once he’s cleared to return.

What’s next for the Eagles without Hurts?

Starting in Week 7, the Eagles are staring down a heavy dose of NFC East division rivalries. First up, they host the Dallas Cowboys on Monday Night Football at Lincoln Financial Field (Monday, October 26).

Next, they hit the road for Sunday Night Football in Week 8 to square off against the Washington Commanders at Northwest Stadium (Sunday, November 1). Finally, in Week 9, they return home to Philly to welcome the New York Giants at Lincoln Financial Field (Sunday, November 8).

Key takeaways

• Jalen Hurts will miss the season due to blood clots in his lungs.
• Tanner McKee becomes the starting quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles.
• The Philadelphia Eagles host the Dallas Cowboys in Week 7 on October 26.

If there’s one team that made some very intriguing moves to strengthen its roster this season, it’s the Sixers. Following the arrival of James, the franchise made a massive effort to bring in Jaylen Brown, one of the Boston Celtics’ biggest stars in recent years.

Taking on the reigning champions at one of the most iconic arenas in the league could be an interesting litmus test for Philadelphia. Will the Sixers finally be able to achieve their goal of reaching the NBA Finals?

James is chasing another championship

At 41 years old, LeBron James isn’t done writing history just yet—now rocking a Sixers jersey in Philly, King James is officially on the hunt for ring number five. Having already stacked four NBA championships across three different franchises—two with the Miami Heat (2012, 2013), one iconic homecoming title with the Cleveland Cavaliers (2016), and another banner with the Los Angeles Lakers (2020)—he’s looking to bring that ultimate championship aura to the City of Brotherly Love.

Philadelphia’s first challenges

Looking past their opener against the Knicks, the 76ers’ next four games kick off with a three-game home stand at Xfinity Mobile Arena: taking on the Cleveland Cavaliers on October 22, hosting the Milwaukee Bucks on October 24, and facing the Detroit Pistons on October 25. Afterwards, they head on the road to battle the Indiana Pacers at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on October 28.

Key takeaways

• New York Knicks host Philadelphia 76ers at Madison Square Garden for the 2026–27 NBA Opening Night.
• LeBron James and Joel Embiid are expected to start for the Philadelphia 76ers.
• At 41 years old, LeBron James is seeking his fifth NBA championship with a new team.

Diggs was listed as questionable, though he was able to log in practices late in the week. Hence, the feeling was he could be involved. In fact, the Commanders saw this happen with Terry McLaurin, their other star wideout. And Diggs is no exception.

McLaurin missed a game due to a hamstring injury, but was able to come back a week after that. The Commanders were hoping they could be able to put both of their wideouts on the field alongside star quarterback Jayden Daniels. According to NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport, Diggs is active to face the Niners on the road.

At full health, the Commanders offense could be unlocked

The whole idea of giving a young quarterback like Daniels a duo of veteran-yet-excellent wideouts is to make life easier for him. McLaurin is an outside-the-numbers, deep threat despite his age. He is very good still, though his injury history has grown quite a lot in recent years.

Diggs is much more of a intermediate-level threat, with prolific routes, and safe hands. Hence, they should provide Daniels with huge upside in any part of the field. Daniels has a very good arm, so when the three are on the field, this should be a very competent offense in the NFL.

Are 49ers a good passing defense?

Diggs and McLaurin could prove to be a tought test. However, the 49ers are excellent. They are the seventh-best passing defense in the NFL right now, and the fourth-best scoring defense.

Hence, it will be a massive test for the Commanders to move the chains against the San Francisco unit. After all, the Commanders have a very deficient running game and their stating RB Jacory Croskey-Merritt is not playing and has been placed on IR, so their best chance is punishing San Francisco by air, even if that’s very tough.

Key takeaways

• Stefon Diggs is active for Washington’s Week 6 game against San Francisco.
• Washington’s Terry McLaurin returned from a hamstring injury after missing one game.
• Running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt is not playing for Washington against San Francisco.

At this stage, the road ahead will be anything but easy for either the Rays or the Guardians. The Milwaukee Brewers swept the Los Angeles Dodgers in their series and will enter the World Series with significantly more rest ahead of the championship showdown.

Kevin Cash’s team is coming off a crucial win that puts the Rays in an excellent position to achieve their goal. Can Tampa Bay punch its ticket tonight at Tropicana Field?

What happens if the Rays beat the Guardians today?

If the Rays defeat the Guardians in Game 6, they will secure their fourth win of the series, clinching it 4–2. Since the ALCS is a best-of-seven series, that victory would punch their ticket to the World Series.

For the Guardians, a loss would be the final blow, bringing their season to an end. Their dream of facing the Milwaukee Brewers and competing for the title would be over.

What happens if the Rays and Guardians tie?

If the Rays and Guardians are tied after nine innings in Game 6, the game simply moves into extra innings and continues until one team leads at the end of a full inning (or until the Rays score a walk-off run as the home team).

Unlike regular-season games, MLB playoff games do not use the “ghost runner” rule on second base to start extra innings, so the teams will play traditional extra innings with empty bases until a winner is decided.

What happens if the Rays lose to the Guardians?

If the Rays lose to the Guardians, the series would be tied at 3–3, setting up a decisive Game 7 to determine the other World Series finalist. The winner-take-all matchup would potentially take place on Tuesday, October 20, with the start time still to be determined, once again at Tropicana Field.

Key takeaways

• A victory in Game 6 would clinch the series 4–2 for Tampa Bay.
• A Guardians win would force a decisive Game 7 at Tropicana Field.
• The Milwaukee Brewers swept the Los Angeles Dodgers to advance to the World Series.

In the Bay Area, things appear to be a bit clearer when it comes to the depth chart. The primary backup, if needed, is veteran Mac Jones, while Kurtis Rourke sits further down the pecking order, listed as the emergency quarterback.

For Dan Quinn, the situation changed following Marcus Mariota’s injury. Athan Kaliakmanis moved up to become Daniels’ primary backup, while Colson Yankoff, who typically plays tight end, could serve as the emergency quarterback if needed.

Purdy looks to maintain his MVP-caliber form

Brock Purdy has been absolute money to start the 2026 season, leading the undefeated 49ers to a 5-0 record while putting up major MVP-caliber numbers. Through five games, Purdy has been lethal through the air, throwing for 1,196 passing yards, 13 touchdowns, and just 2 interceptions while completing 69% of his passes and sitting near the top of the league with an elite 119.3 passer rating.

Coming off a gritty divisional win over Seattle where he tossed another two scores, Purdy looks to keep that momentum rolling against a vulnerable Commanders defense. With the way he’s been dissecting secondary coverage, extending plays with his feet, and protecting the football, he’s poised to keep the Shanahan offense firing on all cylinders.

Daniels has taken Commanders’ offense to another level

Getting Jayden Daniels back on the field after his injury scare has instantly raised the ceiling for this Washington offense. Daniels didn’t look like he missed a beat in his return game against the Giants, dissecting the defense for 199 passing yards with a sharp 68% completion rate (17-of-25).

But the real game-changer was his elite dual-threat dynamic—he tore up the ground game with 103 rushing yards and 2 touchdowns, including a electric 38-yard house call that completely shifted the energy on the sideline.

Bringing total dual-threat chaos, zero turnovers, and a pristine 91.9 passer rating to the table, Daniels proved that when he’s under center, this unit goes from predictable to nearly impossible to slow down.

Key takeaways

• Athan Kaliakmanis became Washington’s primary backup quarterback following an injury to Marcus Mariota.
• Brock Purdy led San Francisco to a 5-0 start with 1,196 passing yards.
• Jayden Daniels posted 199 passing yards and 103 rushing yards in his return.

The San Francisco 49ers have Mike Evans as their best wideout but Deebo Samuel is out of the game due to a hamstring injury. Hence, the wideout depth chart for this game must vary from the usual. The RB depth charts for 49ers vs Commanders are also determined.

As for the Commanders, the question is whether Stefon Diggs will play or not vs 49ers. However, given that he practiced late in the week, it seems like he will at least try to suit up.

49ers WR depth chart vs Commanders

The 49ers are relying heavily on Mike Evans but the veteran has delivered. He is ageing like fine whine. However, there also needs to be said that this passing offense also uses George Kittle quite a lot, as one of the NFL’s premiere tight ends. This is the WR depth chart for today vs Commanders:

• Mike Evans
• Brandin Cooks
• Jacob Cowing
• Jordan Watkins

Commanders WR depth chart vs 49ers

The Commanders have a veteran core to join rookie Antonio Williams. However, it will all depend on Stefon Diggs’ status to actually evaluate how this offense is going to work. This is the WR depth chart vs 49ers:

• Terry McLaurin
• Stefon Diggs
• Antonio Williams
• Treylon Burks
• Dyami Brown

According to Adam Schefter of ESPN, Rams head coach Sean McVay told the media that Davante Adams ruptured his hamstring and will be sidelined for 6-10 weeks. Hence, he will lose pretty much the rest of the regular season.

While the Rams had arguably the best duo of receivers in the NFL in Adams and Puka Nacua, without one of them, there’s a dropoff. Hence, the team, that is 2-4 despite being labeled as a preseason juggernaut, now has to overcome this massive obstacle.

Updated Rams WR depth chart

Without Adams, Puka Nacua will still be the WR1 of the Rams. However, this offense will need to find new ways to get into rhythm. Otherwise, the offense will suffer massively and that’s not good when you see the expectations on this team. This is the updated WR depth chart:

• Puka Nacua
• Jordan Whittington
• Konata Mumpfield
• Tutu Atwell
• Alex Bachman
• CJ Daniels

This goes back to the NFL Draft

The Rams had the 13th overall pick in the NFL Draft and they passed on wideout Makai Lemon to draft backup quarterback Ty Simpson. With 20/20 hindsight, this is looking like a huge mistake.

Key takeaways

• Davante Adams will miss 6-10 weeks after rupturing his hamstring, head coach Sean McVay announced.
• The Los Angeles Rams sit at a 2-4 start to the season following the injury.
• The Rams selected backup quarterback Ty Simpson with the 13th overall pick in the draft.

Deebo Samuel is out with a hamstring injury sustained during Week 5’s win over the Seattle Seahawks. For the time being, head coach Kyle Shanahan said the Niners don’t plan on placing Samuel on Injured Reserve (IR), but the dual-threat wideout is expected to miss a couple of weeks with the latest setback.

According to Shanahan, Samuel was being considered for IR, which would require him to miss at least four games in the 2026 NFL season, but with San Francisco heading into its bye in Week 8, the move may not have made much sense. Against Washington, Deebo will miss his first game of the year, but it certainly won’t be his last.

Samuel’s stats in 2026

Making his return to the Niners in the 2026 NFL season, Samuel has made an immediate impact. So far this season, he’s caught 16 of 20 targets for 206 yards and three touchdowns. His average of 12.9 yards per catch means that whenever Brock Purdy connects with Samuel, the Niners are almost guaranteed to move the chains.

Samuel’s dual-threat ability and shiftiness have also been on full display, as he’s recorded nine carries for 78 yards in 2026. Fumbles have been a bit of an issue, as he has fumbled twice this season, with both coming in his last two games in Weeks 4 and 5.

Samuel to miss revenge game

Hoping to build on his strong start, Samuel now faces the threat of having his momentum derailed by injuries, forcing him to miss the game against his former organization, the Commanders.

Injury bug in San Francisco

With Samuel sidelined, he joins a long list of injured players in Santa Clara. Needless to say, the medical reports coming out of San Francisco’s headquarters do little to quiet the social media buzz surrounding the electrical substation next to the team’s facilities.

As things stand, Samuel is one of five injured wide receivers on the Niners. Christian Kirk, De’Zhaun Stribling, Demarcus Robinson, and Ricky Pearsall round out the list of San Fran’s wideouts on IR. As for the rest of the team, 11 more players are on IR, and it’s only Week 6.

Key takeaways

• Deebo Samuel is ruled out for the San Francisco 49ers’ Week 6 game with a hamstring injury.
• Kyle Shanahan stated the 49ers do not plan on placing Samuel on Injured Reserve.
• Deebo Samuel has recorded 16 catches for 206 yards and three touchdowns this season.

Nick Bosa won’t be playing vs Commanders because he is recovering from a calf injury suffered during a practice warm-up on September 24. This will be Bosa’s fourth-straight absence.

Head coach Kyle Shanahan stated that the 49ers want to make sure Bosa’s calf is fully healed rather than rushing him back prematurely, especially given other injuries on the roster.

When is Nick Bosa returning?

Bosa didn’t practice at all this week as the 49ers prepared to face the Commanders. However, per David Lombardi of the San Francisco Standard, Bosa should be eyeing a Week 7 return against the Atlanta Falcons.

A grade 1 mild strain usually takes 1-to-3 weeks to heal. Meanwhile, a grade 2 takes between 3-to-8 weeks. Hence, it’s safe to say that Bosa is dealing with a grade 1 strain that the 49ers are just being too careful with.

Kyle Juszczyk is set to return vs Commanders

The good news for the 49ers is that All Pro full back Kyle Juszczyk is back and will be a part of the roster against the Commanders. He suffered a hyperextended knee against the Denver Broncos.

Key takeaways

• Nick Bosa is ruled out against Washington as he recovers from a calf injury.
• Nick Bosa is reportedly eyeing a Week 7 return against the Atlanta Falcons.
• Fullback Kyle Juszczyk will return to play against the Washington Commanders in Week 6.

Two other high-caliber receivers serve as key options to bolster C.J. Stroud’s passing attack. Recently acquired Marvin Harrison Jr. is one of them, while Xavier Hutchinson holds the top spot on the slot wide receiver depth chart.

Further down are Kayshon Boutte, another new addition this season, and Jaylin Noel. The news of Dell’s return, reported by Ian Rapoport on X, further strengthens a passing attack that has continued to improve over the past few weeks.

A long wait comes to an end

Tank Dell’s road back to the field has been a brutal test of patience after he suffered a horrific knee injury against the Kansas City Chiefs in December 2024. The gruesome injury occurred when he hauled in a touchdown pass and took a awkward hit that resulted in severe structural damage, including ligament tears and a dislocated kneecap that required him to be carted off the field.

The major setback sidelined him for the entire 2025 campaign, forcing him through a grueling recovery process. After months of endless rehab, Houston finally opened his practice window, bringing him right to the brink of his much-anticipated return to game action.

Key takeaways

• Tank Dell is set to return to action for the Houston Texans.
• Marvin Harrison Jr. and Xavier Hutchinson are key options in the passing attack.
• Tank Dell suffered a severe knee injury against the Kansas City Chiefs.

“Just play it smart,” Adebayo said, according to The Miami Herald. “Obviously, I want to be out there. But it’s one of those things where they tried to save me from myself. Other than that, I should be ready to go Wednesday.”

Erik Spoelstra is also facing some uncertainty regarding Pelle Larsson’s status. The guard has been dealing with an illness over the past few weeks, but all indications suggest he will be available for the season opener.

“That’s the plan right now,” Larsson said of playing Wednesday. “That’s how we’ve been setting it up, kind of planning it out not to go too fast is just don’t rush for the last preseason game. Just focus on the regular season.”

What injury is Bam Adebayo dealing with?

Heat fans were holding their breath when Bam Adebayo popped up on the injury report with right groin tightness, forcing him to sit out Miami’s final two preseason games. Rather than risking any further aggravation, the medical staff took a super cautious approach and kept their star big man sidelined to ensure he’d be at 100% for when the games actually count.

Heat’s first challenges of the season

The Miami Heat kick off their 2026–27 regular season with a two-game homestand at the Kaseya Center, tipping off opening night against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday, October 21. They stay in South Florida for their second matchup on Friday, October 23, hosting the Detroit Pistons.

To round out their opening slate, the Heat head on the road for the first time in a back-to-back, traveling to the Spectrum Center to take on the Charlotte Hornets on Saturday, October 24.

Key takeaways

• Bam Adebayo stated he expects to be ready for Wednesday’s season opener.
• Pelle Larsson plans to return for the opener after dealing with an illness.
• The Miami Heat open their season against the Minnesota Timberwolves on October 21.

Since the incident occurred in the final days of September, Ronaldo is expected to be available for Portugal in mid-November. By then, his suspension will have expired.

One of the greatest legends in Portugal’s national team history accepted whatever punishment came his way, as he revealed in a statement, and that is exactly what he will do. It remains to be seen whether he can ultimately patch things up with Jorge Jesus ahead of what lies ahead.

The incident between CR7 and Portugal

The latest international break turned into absolute drama for Portugal after Cristiano Ronaldo walked out of the national team camp following a heated clash with manager Jorge Jesus over his playing time. After being pulled early against Wales and subsequently left on the bench against Norway, CR7 stormed off when he learned he wouldn’t start against Denmark, accusing the coach of broken promises regarding his minutes.

The Portuguese Football Federation promptly handed him a provisional suspension and opened disciplinary proceedings. The situation ultimately came to a head, and the forward was officially handed a suspension.

What matches does Portugal have in November?

For the November FIFA international window, Portugal face a crucial two-game stretch to close out the group stage of the 2026–27 UEFA Nations League. First up, they host Denmark at the Estadio Municipal de Braga on Saturday, November 14.

Just three days later, they hit the road for their final group fixture to square off against Wales at Cardiff City Stadium on Tuesday, November 17. It’s a high-stakes week for the Portuguese squad as is aims to lock down top spot in Group D before heading into next year’s knockout rounds.

Key takeaways

• Cristiano Ronaldo received a 30-day suspension and fine for leaving the team camp.
• Jorge Jesus clashed with Cristiano Ronaldo over playing time, prompting his departure.
• Portugal host Denmark at the Estadio Municipal de Braga on Saturday, November 14.

“We turn the ball over at a historic rate, and it’s ridiculous,” Vrabel said on WEEI’s “The Greg Hill Show,” “It’s an embarrassment.” It’s clear that wins often bring a sense of relief, but they also highlight plenty of areas that still need improvement.

While Drake Maye hasn’t turned the ball over in the past two games, some of his teammates haven’t been as fortunate. Now, it’s up to Vrabel to address this issue throughout the week and continue to minimize the team’s margin for error.

Taking better care of the football

Ball security has been an absolute nightmare for New England through the early stretch of the 2026 season, with the Patriots coughing up 10 total turnovers (including 7 interceptions and 3 lost fumbles) to sit tied near the bottom of the league in giveaways. Drake Maye has absorbed the brunt of those mistakes as the starting quarterback, responsible for the vast majority of those airborne picks as he navigates defensive coverage and works through his progression reads.

To turn things around and protect their top-10 defense from constantly defending short fields, the Patriots need to radically simplify Maye’s checkdowns, clean up pre-snap execution, and emphasize high-and-tight ball security across the backfield. If they can’t stop gifting opponents free possessions, they’ll keep leaving winnable games on the table.

Key takeaways

• Mike Vrabel called the New England Patriots’ high rate of turnovers “an embarrassment.”
• Drake Maye has gone two consecutive games without turning the ball over.
• The Patriots have committed 10 total turnovers through the early 2026 season.

The Dream now return to the same building with little room for error. A win would level the series at 1-1 before the Finals shift to Atlanta, while another loss would leave the No. 4 seed facing a daunting 0-2 deficit.

Karl Smesko‘s team had the lead for much of Game 1 but struggled badly down the stretch,. Meanwhile, the Valkyries have a chance to seize even greater control of the Finals on their home court. Golden State is undefeated this postseason.

What happens if the Dream win Game 2?

If the Atlanta Dream defeat the Golden State Valkyries in Game 2 of the 2026 WNBA Finals, the series will be tied 1-1, giving Atlanta a chance to return home with momentum before the next two games at State Farm Arena.

They lost the opener 68-64 at Chase Center on October 17, so a victory on Monday, October 19, would prevent Golden State from taking a commanding lead in the best-of-seven series.

Atlanta has reason to believe it can bounce back. The Dream were competitive for most of Game 1 and had opportunities to take control late, but their offense struggled in the closing minutes.

Allisha Gray led Atlanta with 19 points in her return from a hand injury, while Angel Reese recorded 14 points and Rhyne Howard added 12. However, the Dream managed just one field goal over the final 7:16, leaving them with little margin for error against Golden State’s defense.

Can the Dream tie the Valkyries in Game 2?

The Atlanta Dream cannot finish Game 2 against the Golden State Valkyries in a tie because WNBA games use overtime to determine a winner. If the score is level at the end of regulation, the teams play a five-minute overtime period, with additional periods required until one team finishes ahead.

What happens if the Dream lose Game 2?

If the Atlanta Dream lose Game 2, they will fall behind the Golden State Valkyries 0-2 in the 2026 WNBA Finals, leaving them needing four wins in the remaining five possible games to capture the championship.

Golden State would be halfway to the four victories required to win the best-of-seven series, putting Atlanta under significant pressure heading into Game 3. A second consecutive defeat would be particularly damaging because both opening games are scheduled at Chase Center.

The Dream would then have to begin their comeback in Atlanta, where Games 3 and 4 will take place at State Farm Arena on October 21 and October 24, respectively. Winning both home games would give Atlanta a chance to level the series, but it would first have to overcome the deficit created in San Francisco.

How to watch Atlanta Dream vs Golden State Valkyries in the USA

Atlanta Dream vs. Golden State Valkyries Game 2 of the 2026 WNBA Finals will be available to watch live on television via USA Network, CNBC and NBC, or stream online through Peacock.

Can I watch Atlanta Dream vs Golden State Valkyries for free?

There are no free streaming options for Atlanta Dream vs. Golden State Valkyries Game 2. Peacock requires a paid subscription to stream the WNBA Finals, and there is no free streaming option listed.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

The Golden State Valkyries lead the Atlanta Dream 1-0 in the 2026 WNBA Finals, making Game 2 a critical opportunity for both teams. Golden State won the opener 68-64 at Chase Center after overcoming a nine-point deficit and taking control late in the game. Gabby Williams led the Valkyries with 26 points, while Atlanta was led by Allisha Gray‘s 19 points.

Atlanta had several opportunities to steal Game 1 but could not finish offensively. The Dream shot just 32.8% from the field and made only one field goal over the final 7:16. They also missed three three-pointers during the final minute, including a potential game-tying attempt by Gray with 23.8 seconds remaining.

That makes Game 2 particularly important for the Dream. Falling behind 2-0 would leave Atlanta needing to win four of the final five games, including potentially another contest at Chase Center.

Golden State, meanwhile, can put itself in a commanding position by protecting home court for a second straight game. The Valkyries have also now beaten Atlanta in all four of their meetings during the 2026 season, including the playoffs.

The series is historic regardless of the outcome because neither franchise has won a WNBA championship. Golden State reached the Finals just one year after making its inaugural WNBA playoff appearance, while Atlanta returned to the championship series for the first time since 2013.

The two teams also eliminated the defending champions from the previous two seasons: Golden State swept the 2025 champion Las Vegas Aces in the semifinals, while Atlanta swept the New York Liberty, who won the 2024 title.

Golden State’s biggest advantage entering Game 2 is its defense and depth. The Valkyries finished the regular season as the No. 2 seed with a 32-12 record and entered the Finals after sweeping Las Vegas. Atlanta was the No. 4 seed at 30-14 and also swept its way through the semifinals.

What time is the Atlanta Dream vs Golden State Valkyries match?

The Atlanta Dream vs Golden State Valkyries Game 2 starts today, Monday, October 19, at 8:00 PM ET at Chase Center in San Francisco. For viewers in different regions of the United States, here are the local start times:

• Eastern Time: 8:00 PM
• Central Time: 7:00 PM
• Mountain Time: 6:00 PM
• Pacific Time: 5:00 PM

After the loss, head coach Mike Sullivan addressed the confusion with a bold statement that appeared to shift some of the responsibility away from himself. Instead, Sullivan shifted the responsibility—and blame—to another member of his coaching staff, David Quinn, whom he said was responsible for making the defensive pairings.

“That’s [assistant coach David Quinn’s] call back there. He’s running the defense,” Sullivan commented on Smits’ lack of playing time as of late, via the New York Post.

Smits’ limited outing

The fifth overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft logged 14:46 minutes of ice time during New York’s 1-0 loss to Columbus. Although that was his sixth-most ice time in a game this season (10 games played), his lack of shifts during crucial stages of the game raised questions, as he also logged the fewest minutes among New York’s defensemen.

Moreover, his total was boosted by the game going to overtime. According to the New York Post, Smits had just five shifts after the second period. Sullivan explained that Smits’ lack of a special-teams role also played a part, as the Rangers had three power-play opportunities in the third period and failed to score on all three.

Smits has yet to score first NHL point

After another offensively quiet performance, Smits remains in search of his first NHL point, having gone scoreless through his first 10 games of his career. Considering how defensive prospects are now entering the league and scoring in bunches, it is certainly a bit deflating for Smits to still be scoreless.

Just like Pavel Dorofeyev made little of his offensive woes, the young Latvian blueliner isn’t stressing over his offensive production, though. “I think the offense is going to come,” Smits stated, via the New York Post. “Just got to take care of the defense first. So that’s what I’m focusing on right now.”

So far, Smits has a minus-one rating on the season and has recorded a negative plus/minus in three straight games. Against the Blue Jackets, he was on the ice defending Zach Werenski’s assist to Kent Johnson on the game-ending play, so the sequence may have given Sullivan—or Quinn—another reason to consider whether Smits can be trusted in similar situations going forward.

Key takeaways

• The New York Rangers (6-3-1) fell 1-0 to the Columbus Blue Jackets (3-3-0) in overtime.
• Mike Sullivan stated assistant coach David Quinn manages defensive pairings and player ice time.
• Alberts Smits recorded 14:46 of ice time and remains scoreless through 10 games.

After the game, Skattebo accepted Harbaugh and the Giants’ punishment, which came as a sigh of relief, as a heated reaction would have only led to more drama in what’s already been a dramatic enough year for New York—and it’s not even November.

While many believed Harbaugh’s decision to bench Skattebo was merely a way to send a message, the head coach has now spoken on the matter, admitting he isn’t convinced Skattebo is the main running back option in East Rutherford. At least based on what he’s seen so far, Harbaugh is still making up his mind. Entering Week 7, the Giants may be heading into an unexpected competition for the RB1 job. Needless to say, nobody saw this coming.

“I don’t like you divvying up the snaps between four backs. One of those guys needs to step up and be the back. And none of those guys [has] done that yet,” Harbaugh stated postgame, via Ryan Dunleavy of the New York Post.

NY Giants’ running back room

Coming into the season, no one would’ve questioned that Skattebo was the main running back in New York. Even coming off his gruesome injury last year, the ASU product was still expected to lead the team in touches, rushing yards, broken tackles, and friendly headbutts with teammates.

Skattebo is still leading the running back room in almost every category, but he’s also well ahead of everyone else in fumbles, with four total—more than the rest of the team combined. With Skattebo benched in Week 6, the Giants got their first taste of the Najee Harris, Devin Singletary, and Tyrone Tracy Jr. trio, and it was ugly. The three combined for just 34 rushing yards on 14 carries.

Harbaugh may have cost Giants the game

Harbaugh may be right that Skattebo hasn’t been at his best, but saying he hasn’t looked like the team’s RB1 is a bit of a stretch. At the very least, he’s been better than his competition. Skattebo’s worst game this season was his outing against the LA Rams in Week 2. Even then, he recorded 36 yards on 12 carries, more than the trio of Tracy Jr., Harris, and Singletary managed against a weaker Saints defense.

Harbaugh’s harsh approach to fumbles is nothing new, though. In Week 1, Tracy Jr. fumbled, and he didn’t see the field again afterward. Skattebo fumbled in overtime in Week 5 and didn’t play a single snap in Week 6. How much he’ll play in Week 7 remains to be seen, but it’s clear New York needs him.

As great as it is to see Harbaugh hold everyone accountable, regardless of the name on the back of the jersey, that approach can become a problem when it gets in the way of what’s actually best for the team and its aspirations for the season. In Week 6, it came back to bite the G-Men.

Key takeaways

• Cam Skattebo went without a single touch for the New York Giants in Week 6.
• Cam Skattebo has recorded four total fumbles, leading all New York Giants players.
• Tyrone Tracy Jr., Devin Singletary, and Najee Harris combined for only 34 rushing yards.

Kerr spoke to the media following practice and clarified that Curry’s injury is to his right ankle, noting that Curry stated he is doing fine. It was an immediate update that brought encouraging signs.

The initial concern stems from Curry’s recent injury history, as he was available for just half of the 2025-26 campaign due to ankle, quadricep, and knee injuries. Furthermore, according to ESPN’s Anthony Slater, a team source reiterated that the issue is not serious.

How Curry enters the upcoming season

Curry, 38, is heading into his 18th season with the Warriors on an expiring $62 million contract. Injuries have become a constant over recent years, including an issue Curry described as “runner’s knee,” which sidelined him for two months between February and April.

Last season, when available, Curry averaged 26.6 points while shooting 46.8% from the field and 39.3% from the 3-point range. He also posted 3.6 rebounds, 4.7 assists, and 1.1 steals per contest, averaging 30.9 minutes across his 43 appearances.

Curry’s absence had a major impact on the team’s success, particularly during stretches when he was sidelined while Jimmy Butler was also out of action due to a knee injury.

The Warriors registered a 13-26 record without Curry in the lineup, compared to 24-19 when he was on the floor. Curry ultimately returned in time for last spring’s play-in tournament, but he could not guide the team to a victory against the Phoenix Suns.

Who would step up in place of Curry?

With Butler still recovering from surgery undergone in January to repair a torn right ACL, having Curry in the lineup will be vital for the Warriors’ hopes of remaining in the NBA postseason hunt.

In the event that Curry requires time off, or if an issue arises at any point during the season, Draymond Green could be tasked with increasing his offensive production as Brandin Podziemski and De’Anthony Melton see more playing time in the backcourt.

Key takeaways

• Steve Kerr clarified that Stephen Curry injured his right ankle and is doing fine.
• An expiring $62 million contract belongs to Stephen Curry entering his 18th Warriors season.
• A 13-26 record was posted by the Golden State Warriors without Stephen Curry.

Parsons tore his ACL in his left knee during a December 2025 game against the Denver Broncos and also required meniscus surgery. He has remained on the physically unable to perform list (PUP) throughout his rehabilitation, meaning he has not yet been medically cleared to return to practice. Although he initially identified the Cowboys matchup as a realistic target for his comeback, that timeline has now passed.

There has been some encouraging progress, however. Parsons has been seen running at the Packers’ facilities as he continues his rehabilitation, but he has not resumed full practices with the team. Head coach Matt LaFleur has indicated that Micah is getting closer, although the medical staff has not yet given him the green light to return to the field.

How close is Micah Parsons to returning?

LaFleur provided an update on Parsons’ recovery earlier in the week, making clear that the next step depends on medical clearance. “As soon as they give us the green light, he’ll be out there,” the coach said. “That hasn’t happened yet, but I think we’re getting closer.” The Packers are monitoring his progress carefully before allowing him to resume football activities.

Running at the team’s facilities is a positive sign that Parsons is continuing to work toward a return, but it does not mean he is ready to play. The Packers need to make sure the surgically repaired knee has regained sufficient strength and stamina, including matching the other leg, before he can handle the demands of NFL practices and games. He must also get back on the practice field and build up his conditioning before making his season debut.

Green Bay has not announced a firm return date, and his absence could extend beyond October if the necessary clearance and practice progression take longer than expected. The Packers remain hopeful that Parsons can return this month, but Week 6 against Dallas will come too soon. Until he resumes practicing, his exact timetable will remain uncertain, leaving Green Bay to continue without one of its most important defensive players.

Key takeaways

• Micah Parsons is out against the Cowboys while recovering from a knee injury.
• Parsons has been running at the Packers’ facilities but has yet to resume full practices.
• Green Bay has not announced a return date, and Parsons still needs medical clearance.

Jacobs was placed on the exempt list on August 30 while the NFL investigated a legal case stemming from an incident in Wisconsin in May. He pleaded no contest in September to misdemeanor charges of battery and criminal damage to property. The league’s investigation under its Personal Conduct Policy remains ongoing, meaning his removal from the list does not necessarily end the possibility of further discipline.

The timing of the NFL’s decision means Jacobs will miss the Packers’ first six games of the season, including Sunday’s matchup against Dallas. Green Bay has had to rely on its other running backs during his absence, but the potential return of its starting back next week would provide an important boost to an offense that has missed his production.

When can Josh Jacobs return to the Packers?

The NFL announced on October 16 that Jacobs would be removed from the Commissioner’s Exempt List on October 19. That makes him eligible to play when Green Bay visits the Detroit Lions in Week 7, but eligibility does not guarantee that he will immediately return to the lineup. The Packers will still need to determine his role and prepare him for game action after an extended absence.

The main uncertainty is whether the NFL will impose a suspension following its investigation. The league has not announced a final disciplinary decision, and the review will continue even after Jacobs leaves the exempt list. The time he spent on the list could count toward a future suspension, but the NFL has not confirmed whether that will be the outcome or whether additional games will be required.

For now, Jacobs remains unavailable against the Cowboys, and Green Bay must continue without one of its leading offensive weapons. His potential return against Detroit gives the Packers a target date to work toward, but the ongoing league investigation means questions remain. Until the NFL announces its final decision, Jacobs’ Week 7 availability and longer-term status will be worth monitoring.

Key takeaways

• Josh Jacobs will miss the Packers’ game against the Cowboys while awaiting his return from the Commissioner’s Exempt List.
• Jacobs is eligible to return in Week 7 against the Lions, but a potential NFL suspension remains unresolved.
• The NFL’s investigation under its Personal Conduct Policy is ongoing, and no final disciplinary decision has been announced.

Harbaugh had a piece of advice for Skattebo after his costly fumble in Week 5 against the Washington Commanders, which was only made less costly by the Commanders’ terrible clock management. As if that wasn’t enough, Harbaugh sent another message in the loss to the Saints.

Skattebo didn’t register a single touch of the football in the home defeat at MetLife Stadium. Following the game, Skattebo spoke honestly about the coaching decision.

“I got punished for what I did (last week). I understand it so I’ve got to be ready when coach calls my name and that wasn’t today,” Skattebo admitted to media after the game, via Charlotte Carroll of The Athletic.

NY Giants’ rushing stats in Week 6

Although the Giants are reportedly seeking a new run game involving Skattebo and Najee Harris, it’s clear that wasn’t in place in Week 6 against the Saints. Instead, New York laid an egg on the ground. Against New Orleans, the Giants’ leading rusher was quarterback J.J. McCarthy with just 26 yards.

The second-best rusher was another non-halfback, as Darnell Mooney had 18 yards on one carry. Tyrone Tracy Jr., Devin Singletary, and Harris combined for 34 yards on 14 carries, an average of 2.4 yards per carry. To say New York looked anemic without Skattebo would be an understatement.

Mixed feelings for NY Giants fans

Harbaugh clearly wanted to send a message, and he did just that, loudly. However, fans don’t necessarily agree on whether the timing and extent of the punishment were right. The Giants appreciate that Harbaugh is holding his players accountable, but it’s not ideal for that to come at the team’s expense.

It’s a double-edged sword, and it’s clear which side landed on the G-Men’s foot in Week 6. New York is now 3-2-1 on the season, having squandered a great chance to keep building on its lead atop the NFC East.

Key takeaways

• Cam Skattebo benched: New York Giants running back Cam Skattebo had zero touches against Saints.
• New York Giants rushing stats: New York Giants averaged 2.4 yards per carry against New Orleans.
• New York Giants overall record: New York Giants record dropped to 3-2-1 following loss to Saints.

On the Packers’ side, the depth chart features notable changes: Josh Jacobs is on the commissioner’s exempt list for Week 6, and Christopher Brooks is on injured reserve. Even so, the order is set, with MarShawn Lloyd serving as the starter, Pierre Strong Jr. as the RB2, and Kaleb Johnson as the RB3.

As for the Cowboys, Malik Davis is on injured reserve, but Dallas still features Javonte Williams as the starter, Tyler Goodson as the RB2, and Emari Demercado as the RB3. It remains a duel that promises elite-level play, given both teams’ depth charts.

How both teams enter the matchup

The Packers (3-2) are chasing a third straight victory, while the Cowboys (2-3) are making defensive adjustments after allowing a league-worst 6.4 yards per play.

The matchup reignites a rivalry after their previous meeting ended in a wild 40-40 tie. Former Packers Kenny Clark and Rashan Gary will return to Lambeau Field as Cowboys players, while Micah Parsons remains sidelined, recovering from a torn ACL.

The key battle will be Dak Prescott against Green Bay’s secondary. The Packers have recorded seven interceptions this season, but Prescott enters the game in strong form with four straight games of at least 275 passing yards, supported by receivers CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens.

Green Bay (3-2) finally moved above .500 after a dominant 31-7 victory over the Chicago Bears and will look to extend its winning streak to three games in the 2026 NFL season. Dallas (2-3), meanwhile, is searching for answers after suffering a shocking 24-16 loss against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who entered the matchup without a victory.

Key takeaways

• MarShawn Lloyd is Green Bay’s RB1, backed by Pierre Strong Jr. and Kaleb Johnson.
• Javonte Williams leads Dallas as RB1, backed by Tyler Goodson and Emari Demercado.
• A league-worst 6.4 yards per play has been allowed by the Dallas Cowboys.

“I’m making a prediction right now, the Kansas City Chiefs make a big trade for a big time receiver that can get down the field,” Wilson said on NFL on CBS. And Wilson is not precisely wrong on suggesting that.

After losing Tyquan Thornton to an ankle injury, the rumors of getting Tyreek Hill back on the Chiefs grew. However, Hill is in the middle of resolving plenty of legal issues. Hence, for Wilson, a move before the November 10th trade deadline is needed.

The Chiefs WR depth chart is very thin

As of now, the wideouts are very thin and not precisely big names. In fact, the Chiefs should be desperate to bring someone in. A deep threat is needed as quarterback Patrick Mahomes loves to launch it down the field. This is their healthy WR room:

• Xavier Worthy
• Jalen Royals
• Cyrus Allen
• Nikko Remigio
• Andrew Armstrong
• Justin Watson

Who can the Chiefs target?

While it is highly unlikely that the Chiefs can get a certified WR1 in the middle of the season, Russell Wilson is referring to someone that can get down field, and the Chiefs could definitely get a vertical weapon. These are some of the candidates:

• Quentin Johnston – Los Angeles Chargers
• Brian Thomas Jr. – Jacksonville Jaguars
• Rashod Bateman – Baltimore Ravens

Key takeaways

• Russell Wilson predicted the Kansas City Chiefs will trade for a receiver.
• The Chiefs lost wide receiver Tyquan Thornton to an ankle injury.
• The NFL trade deadline is set for November 10th.

Ladd McConkey has been ruled out due to a concussion suffered after he made a catch. Now, the Chargers are going to finish the game without their best receiver on the roster.

McConkey has dealt mainly with rib injuries throughout the season. However, he’s been banged up pretty much everywhere. Now, a head injury, which is always worrisome. The Chargers are 0-5 facing the 4-0 Chiefs.

When will Ladd McConkey be back?

The median time for an NFL player to return from a concussion is 9 days, though individual recovery times vary widely from just a few days to several weeks. About 25% to 38% of players return in time for their team’s next game (within 7 days).

Many other players miss multiple weeks or games depending on symptom severity and medical clearance. Hence, it will depend on the severity of the concussion to see how many games, if any, McConkey misses.

The NFL 5-step protocol

The NFL has no fixed timetable but it does require players to clear a strict, step-by-step return-to-participation process monitored by team medical staff and an Independent Neurological Consultant (INC):

1. Symptom-limited activity: Rest and limited physical/cognitive exertion.
2. Aerobic exercise: Supervised stationary cycling or treadmill work (no resistance training).
3. Football-specific exercise: Non-contact drills and strength training for up to 30 minutes.
4. Club-based non-contact drills: Throwing, catching, and positional drills with the team (no contact).
5. Full football clearance: Full participation in practice after receiving clearance from both the team physician and the INC.

Key takeaways

• Ladd McConkey was ruled out against the Chiefs after suffering a concussion.
• The Chargers are 0-5 facing the 4-0 Kansas City Chiefs in Week 6.
• The median time to return from an NFL concussion is 9 days.

On the Packers’ side, there are no surprises under center. Green Bay will feature a solid Jordan Love looking to lead the way to victory, with Tyrod Taylor installed as the QB2 backup. Kedon Slovis remains on the practice squad and has not been elevated.

For the Cowboys, the starting quarterback position also remains unchanged. Dak Prescott continues as the franchise cornerstone under center, while Sam Howell serves as the QB2 backup.

How Love and Prescott enter the matchup

This is an important matchup for both teams, as each side entered the day tied for second place in its respective division. Neither team is satisfied with its start to the season, making this a pivotal contest as separation begins to form in the standings.

It has been an impressive start to the season for Jordan Love. Through the opening five games, the Packers quarterback has thrown for 1,408 yards, 10 touchdowns, and three interceptions. He is averaging 281.6 passing yards per game and has cleared 272.5 passing yards in three of his five outings.

The Packers are giving up the sixth-fewest yards per pass this season (6.4), but that number is rather misleading, as Green Bay has faced a weak group of quarterbacks so far. The Packers have faced Carson Wentz, Geno Smith, Michael Penix Jr., Jalon Daniels, and Tyson Bagent.

As for Prescott, the quarterback ranks sixth in the NFL in passing yards this season (1,381) and has thrown for at least 279 yards in three of five games, entering this week on the heels of back-to-back 300-yard performances. Prescott has competed in 10 games with a total of 50-plus points over the last two seasons, exceeding 277.5 passing yards in four of those contests.

Key takeaways

• Jordan Love is Green Bay’s QB1, backed by Tyrod Taylor as QB2.
• Dak Prescott leads Dallas as QB1, backed by Sam Howell as QB2.
• 1,408 passing yards and 10 touchdowns were recorded by Jordan Love through five games.

Even though Bills head coach Joe Brady threatened to take James Cook’s prominent role away, Buffalo may have no choice but to pound the rock as Moore won’t play against Las Vegas. That, or the Bills will need Josh Allen to play hero ball, not that it would be anything new for him.

Dealing with a shoulder injury, Moore was a limited participant in Buffalo’s Friday practice and is listed as questionable for the Week 6 matchup against Las Vegas in the 2026 NFL season. Moore didn’t play in the Bills’ primetime win over the Los Angeles Rams last week.

Bills WR depth chart

Joshua Palmer is also questionable to play against the Raiders. That means Josh Allen’s confirmed receiving options for Week 6 will include Khalil Shakir, Keon Coleman, Greg Dortch, and Skyler Bell.

That’s not taking into account the loaded tight end room, which boasts the likes of Dalton Kincaid, Dawson Knox, and Jackson Hawes. If neither Moore nor Palmer can dress, expect Kincaid and company to have an even bigger role in Pete Carmichael’s offense.

Key takeaways

• Bills face Raiders in Week 6 with DJ Moore’s playing status still unconfirmed.
• DJ Moore listed questionable with a shoulder injury after practicing limited on Friday.
• Joshua Palmer questionable alongside DJ Moore, leaving Bills wide receiver options depleted.

Kendal Daniels tried to make a tackle but ended up making direct contact to the knee of the Bears player, which seemingly forced a compression on his neck. After not being able to recover, he got stretchered out as the whole stadium stood in silence.

Per the Falcons social media, “Daniels is alert and has movement in all his extremities.” This is good news as it’s the first sign that the injury is not as serious as it could be.

Neck injuries are very dangerous

Players running at maximum speed toward one another generate massive force that concentrates heavily on the neck and cervical vertebrae. Hence, a full-force impact straightens the neck, removing its natural shock-absorbing curve and driving the impact straight down the spinal column.

Bruising, compression, or tearing of the spinal cord itself, which can lead to temporary or permanent paralysis, loss of motor control, or sensory deficits are taken very seriously. Hence, Daniels will be treated with full priority.

How are neck injuries treated on field?

Medical staffs treat any suspected neck or spinal injury with immediate immobilization, spine-boarding, and fast hospital transport. The immobilization process can take a bit, as doctors need to be very careful with the body of the injured player.

Key takeaways

• Linebacker Kendal Daniels was stretchered off the field against the Chicago Bears.
• Kendal Daniels suffered a neck injury after making direct contact with a Bears player.
• Falcons linebacker Kendal Daniels was transported to a hospital for further evaluation.

The first-round pick has been dealing with ankle issues throughout his rookie campaign, and the discomfort has continued to affect him in recent weeks. After playing against the Detroit Lions in Week 5, Love did not practice during the week leading up to the Rams game. The Cardinals ultimately decided that giving him time to recover was the best option.

Although his absence is a setback for Arizona, there is a positive update regarding the rookie’s status moving forward. Head coach Mike LaFleur said the team has not discussed placing Love on injured reserve, offering some encouragement that the organization is not currently preparing for an extended absence.

When will Jeremiyah Love return?

Matt LaFleur confirmed that Jeremiyah Love will miss the Week 6 matchup against Los Angeles, emphasizing the importance of allowing the running back’s ankle to heal.

The Cardinals are taking a cautious approach rather than risking further aggravation, especially given the importance of Love’s explosiveness and ability to make sharp cuts as a runner. “No. There’s no discussion of IR or anything like that. Got to really reevaluate his ankle injury. I mean, really every single day. Not enough right now to go.” For now, Arizona has not committed to a specific return date.

Cardinals RB depth chart

With Jeremiyah Love sidelined, veteran Tyler Allgeier is expected to take on a larger role, with Bam Knight also available in the backfield. The Cardinals will need their other running backs to contribute against the Rams while Love focuses on recovery. His status during the coming week will be worth monitoring, but the lack of injured reserve discussions provides a reason for optimism as Arizona looks ahead to its next game.

Key takeaways

• Jeremiyah Love is out against the Rams with an ankle injury.
• Cardinals coach Mike LaFleur said there have been no discussions about placing Love on injured reserve.
• Arizona will reassess Love’s ankle as he works toward a potential return.

According to Jonathan Jones of The Athletic, the Chiefs could prioritize younger players and continue exploring the trade market rather than immediately pursuing the former Kansas City star. With the November 10 trade deadline approaching, the team’s next move could provide a clearer indication of whether a reunion remains a realistic possibility.

“As it stands now, I don’t get the sense the Chiefs are in a rush to sign Tyreek Hill. I would expect the Chiefs to lean on a young receiver such as Jalen Royals in the short term as the team continues to sniff around the wide-receiver trade market. If Kansas City deals for a speedy receiver before the Nov. 10 deadline, I would take that as a negative development for a Hill reunion.”

When is Tyreek Hill coming back?

Kansas City’s approach could depend on what becomes available on the trade market over the coming weeks. Jones indicated that the Chiefs may prefer to give Jalen Royals an opportunity in the short term while assessing potential additions. A trade for another speedy wide receiver before the deadline would be a significant signal that the team is pursuing a different solution instead of bringing Hill back.

Hill’s physical condition is another important consideration. The receiver is recovering from a serious knee injury, and Kansas City would need to assess his health before committing to a return. Jones identified that issue alongside the financial and disciplinary questions that could complicate negotiations. With no timetable for Tyreek’s recovery, there might not be a reunion.

“The health of Hill’s knee is one factor. The money will be another, as no one expects him to sign a veteran minimum deal. And then there’s the potential NFL discipline. Put those in whatever order you’d like, but nothing seems imminent.”

Those factors leave Hill’s next destination uncertain, with a return to Kansas City far from guaranteed. The Chiefs must weigh the potential impact of adding a familiar playmaker against the risks associated with his recovery, salary expectations and possible NFL discipline.

For now, Jones’ report suggests that a reunion is not close, and Kansas City’s decisions before the November 10 deadline could help determine whether the possibility gains momentum or fades further.

Key takeaways

• The Chiefs are not rushing to sign Tyreek Hill, according to Jonathan Jones.
• Kansas City could pursue a speedy receiver before the November 10 trade deadline.
• Hill’s knee, salary expectations and potential NFL discipline remain obstacles to a reunion.

Per Jay Glazer of Fox, “the Broncos changed their offensive terminology when Davis Webb became OC in the offseason. When Sean Payton took play-calling duties back from Webb, he switched it back to his terminology. All the changing verbiage has played a role in Bo Nix’s struggles. Payton is confident Nix will be fine.”

Nix had a stellar 2025 season but the 2026 start hasn’t been good at all. Davis Webb was promoted to be the playcaller, but it didn’t work, so Payton took the duties back.

Promoting Davis Webb was a huge mistake

The saying “don’t fix what isn’t broken” didn’t get to Payton. He was so focused on keeping Webb that he promoted him to be a playcaller and didn’t foresee these issues. Not only that, but Payton is an elite playcaller, Webb was a first-timer. The drop-off was very predictable.

Now, the young QB is the one struggling, and trying to readapt. Payton should’ve, logically, never changed what was working to wonders. After all, Denver was one of the best offenses in the NFL. Now, it’s one of the worse.

Broncos weapons must step up

The Broncos paid a first-round pick to bring wideout Jaylen Waddle. Last season, they had a breakout year by WR Troy Franklin. Yet, both have been really underwhelming to start the season.

Jaylen Waddle is averaging 38 yards per game, while Troy Franklin is a no-show, with just 66 yards all season. In fact, it’s the backup running back, RJ Harvey, the one who leads the team in catches with 23.

Key takeaways

• Offensive terminology changes contributed to Bo Nix’s early-season struggles with Denver.
• Head coach Sean Payton retook play-calling duties from offensive coordinator Davis Webb.
• Backup running back RJ Harvey leads Denver with 23 catches this season.

How to watch Juventus vs Lazio in the USA

Juventus vs Lazio will be available to watch live in the United States on Fubo, Paramount+, Peacock, Telemundo, Telemundo Deportes En Vivo and CBS Sports Golazo.

Can I watch Juventus vs Lazio for free?

Yes, Fubo may let eligible new subscribers watch Juventus vs Lazio through its 5-day free trial. The trial’s availability and eligibility requirements can vary.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

Juventus host Lazio in one of the standout fixtures of Serie A Matchday 7. Lazio arrive in Turin unbeaten in the league and four points ahead of Juventus, according to previews published ahead of the match.

That gives the visitors an opportunity to protect their strong start, while Juventus need a positive result to reduce the gap and keep pace with the teams above them.

Juventus head into the match after a 2-1 comeback win against Celta Vigo in the Europa League. Randal Kolo Muani scored the late winner in Spain, giving the Bianconeri a boost ahead of their domestic assignment. However, the turnaround also leaves Luciano Spalletti‘s squad with a demanding schedule, making fitness and potential rotation important factors against Lazio.

Lazio, meanwhile, will look to extend their unbeaten league run and take advantage of Juventus’ inconsistent domestic results. The visitors have made a strong start under Gennaro Gattuso, and a result in Turin would reinforce their position among the early contenders. Juventus, playing at home, will aim to impose their style and turn their European momentum into a league victory.

Juventus vs Lazio: Predicted Lineups

Juventus (4-2-3-1): Guglielmo Vicario; Zeki Celik, Jhon Lucumi, Bremer, Pierre Kalulu; Douglas Luiz, Pape Matar Sarr; Nico Gonzalez, Weston McKennie, Edon Zhegrova; Randal Kolo Muani.

Lazio (4-3-3): Christos Mandas; Nuno Tavares, Oliver Provstgaard, Danilho Doekhi, Romano Floriani; Kenneth Taylor, Reda Belahyane, Davide Frattesi; Mattia Zaccagni, Tijjani Noslin, Gustav Isaksen.

What time is the Juventus vs Lazio match?

Juventus vs Lazio kicks off on Sunday, October 18, at 2:45 PM ET in the United States. The match will be played at Allianz Stadium in Turin, Italy, as part of Matchday 7 of the 2026-27 Serie A season.

• Eastern Time: 2:45 PM
• Central Time: 1:45 PM
• Mountain Time: 12:45 PM
• Pacific Time: 11:45 AM

Jackson originally suffered the injury late in the first half of Baltimore’s Week 4 game against the Tennessee Titans. He was unable to return for the second half, although the Ravens managed to secure the victory. The injury then forced him to miss last week’s matchup against the Atlanta Falcons, and he has not practiced since getting hurt.

The timing of his absence is significant because Sunday’s game is a divisional contest with important implications for the AFC North standings. Baltimore will have to rely on its backup quarterback once again, hoping to maintain its momentum after a dramatic overtime win against Atlanta. Jackson’s return remains uncertain, with the Ravens taking a cautious approach to his recovery.

When is Lamar Jackson coming back?

Lamar Jackson might return in Week 7. For now, Tyler Huntley will start at quarterback for the Ravens against the Browns, taking over for Jackson for the second straight week. Huntley helped Baltimore overcome the Falcons in a 30-23 overtime victory, delivering a strong finish after the Ravens fell behind late in regulation.

Huntley completed 24 of 32 passes for 201 yards and two touchdowns against Atlanta, while also scoring a rushing touchdown. His performance helped Baltimore complete a comeback and secure the win in overtime, giving the coaching staff confidence in turning to him again while Jackson remains sidelined.

Now Huntley faces another important test against Cleveland, with the Ravens looking to protect their position in the division. Baltimore will need him to manage the offense, avoid costly mistakes and take advantage of scoring opportunities. While Jackson’s absence is a major loss, Huntley’s performance against Atlanta gives the Ravens reason to believe they can remain competitive until their starting quarterback is healthy enough to return.

Hurts initially experienced calf discomfort after Philadelphia’s Week 4 game against the Los Angeles Rams on October 4. An ultrasound performed after the Eagles traveled to London revealed the blood clot, but medical staff initially determined that he could safely play against the Jacksonville Jaguars. A follow-up examination later showed movement in the clot, prompting the team to take further precautions.

The Eagles enter Week 6 with a 2-3 record and remain in contention in the NFC East, but losing their franchise quarterback adds another major challenge after three consecutive defeats. Philadelphia won the Super Bowl just two seasons ago, making the uncertainty surrounding Hurts’ health and the team’s immediate future particularly significant. For now, the priority is his recovery, while the rest of the roster must try to keep the season on track.

When is Jalen Hurts coming back?

Jalen Hurts has been placed on injured reserve, which means he must miss at least four games. Philadelphia has not announced a specific return date, and the quarterback is sidelined indefinitely while doctors determine his treatment and monitor the blood clot. The Eagles will reassess the situation as more information becomes available, but his return will depend on medical guidance rather than a fixed timetable.

Who is replacing Jalen Hurts?

Tanner McKee is expected to start at quarterback against Carolina, stepping into a crucial role as the Eagles attempt to stop their losing streak. McKee has limited recent game experience, so Philadelphia will need to adjust its offensive approach while its starter is unavailable. The team also has rookie Cole Payton among its quarterback options, providing additional depth during Hurts’ absence.

The situation also raises broader questions about Philadelphia’s ability to remain competitive if Hurts misses an extended stretch. Although the team is not abandoning its season, its immediate outlook will depend on how McKee performs and whether the offense can find consistency without its leader. Hurts’ health remains the central concern, and the Eagles will wait for medical clearance before considering his return to the field.

Key takeaways

• Jalen Hurts was placed on injured reserve after doctors discovered a blood clot in his calf.
• Tanner McKee is expected to start against the Panthers in Week 6.
• Hurts is sidelined indefinitely while doctors monitor the clot and determine his treatment.

Mayfield suffered the injury on September 27, during the fourth quarter of Tampa Bay’s loss to the Minnesota Vikings in Week 3. He dislocated his thumb after hitting his hand against Vikings linebacker Blake Cashman, leaving the Buccaneers without their starting quarterback as they evaluate his recovery and determine when he can safely return.

There is optimism within the organization that Mayfield could be back for Week 7 against the Carolina Panthers. However, he will not be available against Pittsburgh, meaning Tampa Bay must rely on its next option at quarterback while hoping to keep its season on track. His recovery will remain a key storyline as the Buccaneers await his return.

Who will start at QB for Bucs vs Steelers?

Jalon Daniels is set to start at quarterback for Tampa Bay against Pittsburgh, giving him another opportunity to lead the offense while Mayfield recovers. Daniels enters the matchup after guiding the Buccaneers to an impressive victory over the Dallas Cowboys, a performance that strengthened his case for another start.

The challenge will be maintaining that momentum against the Steelers, who will look to take advantage of Tampa Bay’s absence at quarterback. Daniels will need to manage the offense, avoid costly mistakes and make the most of his opportunities to keep the Buccaneers competitive throughout the game.

For Tampa Bay, the immediate focus is on getting through Week 6 without its starting quarterback and giving Daniels the support he needs to succeed. The organization remains hopeful that Mayfield can return against Carolina in Week 7, but until he is cleared to play, the Buccaneers will have to move forward with their current quarterback plan.

Key takeaways

• Baker Mayfield is out against the Steelers with a dislocated thumb.
• Jalon Daniels will start after leading the Buccaneers to a win over the Cowboys.
• Tampa Bay is optimistic Mayfield could return in Week 7 against the Panthers.

Even though Patrick Mahomes admitted Kenneth Walker III helped convince Andy Reid to change the team’s offense, the Chiefs might need a miracle to overcome the absence of Rice from Kansas City’s wide receiver corps.

Rashee Rice has been ruled out for Week 6’s matchup with the Chargers due to hamstring and knee injuries sustained during Week 4’s win over the Las Vegas Raiders. Kansas City had hoped Rice would be available coming off the bye, but the team decided to sideline him as a precaution.

Chiefs WR depth chart

With Rashee Rice out of the picture, the Chiefs’ WR depth chart for their Week 6 matchup with the Bolts is quite depleted. Kansas City’s wideouts on the active roster include Xavier Worthy, Jalen Royals, Cyrus Allen, Nikko Remiggio, Andrew Armstrong, and Justin Watson.

With Rice sidelined by injury, the SMU product joins Jimmy Holliday, Tyquan Thornton, and Jeff Caldwell among the unavailable wide receivers, as the latter trio are all on injured reserve (IR).

What’s next for Chiefs?

After the AFC West duel in Week 6, the Chiefs’ schedule won’t get any easier. In fact, quite the contrary. Kansas City will travel to face the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday Night Football before taking on the Denver Broncos, with both games on the road. Given that Rice was at one point close to playing in Week 6, the Chiefs will expect their star wide receiver to return in Week 7.

Key takeaways

• 4-0 Kansas City Chiefs face the 0-5 Los Angeles Chargers in Week 6.
• Rashee Rice ruled out for Week 6 due to Week 4 knee/hamstring injuries.
• Kansas City expects Rice to return for their Week 7 game at Seattle.

They enter the bye after a 31-24 win over the Dolphins on October 11, bringing their record to 3-2. With no game on the schedule this weekend, they can use the extra time to recover and prepare for the challenges ahead in the AFC North.

They are scheduled to return against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium, with kickoff set for 1 PM ET on CBS. The divisional matchup will give them their next opportunity to build on their early-season record.

When do the Cincinnati Bengals play next?

The Cincinnati Bengals will play the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday, October 25, 2026, at 1 PM ET in Week 7 of the NFL regular season. The AFC North matchup will take place at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland.

They will return to the field after its Week 6 bye, which follows a 31-24 road victory over the Dolphins. They enter the break with a 3-2 record, giving them an opportunity to recover and prepare for the next stage of their schedule.

The matchup against Baltimore could be important in the AFC North race. The Ravens enter Week 6 with a 4-1 record, while the Bengals will look to close the gap in the division when the teams meet. A road win would give them a valuable result against a divisional rival early in the season.

After facing Baltimore, they are scheduled to host the Titans on Sunday, November 1. They will then travel to Madrid, Spain, to face the Falcons on November 8 in an international game at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium.

Key takeaways

• The Cincinnati Bengals are on a scheduled bye week in Week 6.
• Cincinnati enters its Week 6 break with a 3-2 record.
• The Cincinnati Bengals face the Baltimore Ravens in Week 7 on Oct. 25.

The timing of the break also creates an interesting pause for a Vikings team that has quickly emerged as one of the NFL‘s unbeaten clubs. While Minnesota sits out Week 6, four other teams are also off this weekend.

They won’t have to wait long to return to action. Minnesota’s next game is scheduled for Week 7 at U.S. Bank Stadium, giving the team a full week to recover before attempting to extend its perfect start.

Who are the Minnesota Vikings playing in Week 7?

The Vikings will face the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 7 of the 2026 NFL regular season, as they continue their campaign in the NFC. The team is looking to build momentum and strengthen their position in the NFC playoff race.

According to the Minnesota Vikings’ official 2026 schedule, the game is scheduled for Sunday, October 25, at noon CT at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The matchup will air on CBS.

They enter Week 7 after their Week 6 bye, giving the team an additional week to rest and prepare for Indianapolis. The Colts, meanwhile, will be looking to make the most of the matchup as the regular season progresses.

Key takeaways

• The Minnesota Vikings are off in Week 6 due to their bye week.
• Head coach Kevin O’Connell’s team enters the break with a 5-0 start.
• The Minnesota Vikings face the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, Oct. 25.

Per the Colts social media, Warren is one of five inactive players for this game vs Titans. Warren suffered a groin injury, and despite an improved condition on Saturday, the team will take the cautious road and not risk him vs. the 0-5 Titans.

Alongside Warren, linebacker Jaylon Carlies, wideout Ashton Dulin, quarterback Riley Leonard, and guard Dalton Tucker are also inactive. Hence, the Colts could need alternative names to step up.

Who will start at TE instead of Tyler Warren?

Warren is arguably a top three player on the roster. He is a monster and one of the best tight ends in the NFL. Hence, not having him will matter a lot, even if they’re facing a very deficient team like the Titans.

Instead of Warren, veteran Mo Alie-Cox will be starting at tight end for the Colts. Drew Ogletree, Will Mallory, and Pharaoh Brown are the other tight ends on the roster for Indianapolis.

The Colts should still have a win vs Titans

Indianapolis is highly favored to win this game with or without Warren. After all, the main weapon is actually running back Jonathan Taylor, who has decimated the Tennessee Titans time and time again. These are the last three games Taylor has played against Titans:

• 12/22/24: 218 rush yds/ 3 rush TDs
• 9/21/25: 102 rush yds/ 3 rush TDs
• 10/26/25: 153 rush yds/ 2 rush TDs/ 1 rec TD

Key takeaways

• Tight end Tyler Warren is inactive for the Colts against Tennessee with a groin injury.
• Indianapolis listed five inactive players, including linebacker Jaylon Carlies and quarterback Riley Leonard.
• Veteran Mo Alie-Cox will start at tight end for the Colts in Warren’s place.

“He was available yesterday as well,” Cash told reporters in his post-game press conference. “Just kind of gave the heads up, like, sixth inning, tighter lead, you’re definitely in play. He was all eager to come in and do it and showed why.”

Ultimately, Cash’s decision paid off, as the manager himself was impressed by what he saw at Progressive Field. “A lot of power, got huge outs for us,” Cashman also added.

Peralta delivers once again

Freddy Peralta proved to be a clutch asset, stepping up for the Tampa Bay Rays to hold off the Cleveland Guardians. Coming in as a key high-leverage reliever, Peralta tossed 0.2 scoreless innings without allowing a single hit (0 H, 0 ER, 1 BB).

His brief but surgical outing effectively snuffed out a Cleveland rally, keeping the game well within reach and helping secure the 7–3 victory to even the series at 2–2.

The ALCS is heating up

With the ALCS deadlocked, Game 5 takes place on Sunday, October 18, remaining in Cleveland at Progressive Field for one last swing before the series shifts locations. From there, the action heads down south to St. Petersburg for Game 6 on Monday, October 19, back at Tropicana Field as Tampa Bay looks to capitalize on home-field advantage.

Key takeaways

• Kevin Cash brought Freddy Peralta out of the bullpen in Game 4.
• Freddy Peralta tossed 0.2 scoreless innings without allowing a single hit.
• Game 5 takes place on Sunday, October 18 in Cleveland at Progressive Field.

The timing comes after a difficult start for Miami. They entered their bye at 0-5, following a Week 5 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals, so the week off gives Jeff Hafley and his team an opportunity to regroup before returning to action.

Miami is scheduled to return in Week 7. Until then, Dolphins fans will have to watch the rest of the NFL’s Week 6 action without their team, as they join Cincinnati, Detroit and Minnesota among the clubs taking the week off.

Who are the Miami Dolphins playing in Week 7?

The Miami Dolphins will play the New York Jets in Week 7 of the 2026 NFL season. The AFC East rivals are scheduled to meet on Sunday, Oct. 25, at 1 PM ET at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

The matchup will be their first game after its Week 6 bye. They enter the break at 0-5 following a 31-24 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals on Oct. 11, while the Jets are 2-3 heading into their Week 6 matchup against the New England Patriots.

This will also be Miami’s first AFC East matchup of the 2026 season. The Dolphins’ schedule includes two meetings with New York, with the second coming in Week 12 on November 29 at Hard Rock Stadium.

Key takeaways

• The Miami Dolphins are on a scheduled bye week during Week 6.
• Head coach Jeff Hafley’s team enters the week off with a 0-5 record.
• The Miami Dolphins face the New York Jets in Week 7 on Oct. 25.

How to watch Real Madrid vs Sevilla in the USA

Real Madrid vs Sevilla will be available to watch live in the United States on ABC, ESPN Deportes, Fubo, ESPN+ and the ESPN App.

Can I watch Real Madrid vs Sevilla for free?

Eligible new subscribers may be able to watch Real Madrid vs Sevilla through Fubo‘s 5-day free trial. The platform lists the match on both ABC and ESPN Deportes, but trial availability and duration depend on the plan offered at signup.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

Real Madrid enter Matchday 9 in fourth place with 18 points from eight games, while Sevilla sit fifth with 14 points. The four-point gap makes Sunday’s meeting an important opportunity for Sevilla to close in on the hosts, while Real Madrid will aim to stay in the title race and protect their position among the league’s leading teams.

Real Madrid will have to manage a significant attacking absence: Vinicius Junior is suspended for four LaLiga matches following his red card against Villarreal. The Brazilian will miss the Sevilla game, as well as upcoming league fixtures against Barcelona, Racing de Santander and Valencia.

His absence leaves coach Jose Mourinho with a decision to make on the left wing as the team enters a demanding stretch that also includes a Champions League match against Leipzig and El Clasico.

Sevilla arrive as one of the season’s early surprises under Luis Garcia Plaza. They will look to take advantage of Madrid’s suspension setback and improve a record at the Bernabeu that has been difficult for the visitors: Sevilla have not won there since 2008. The visitors also face their own selection concerns, with Isaac Romero suspended and Miguel Sierra injured, potentially affecting their attacking options.

Real Madrid vs Sevilla: Predicted Lineups

Real Madrid (4-2-3-1): Thibaut Courtois; Marc Cucurella, Dean Huijsen, Ibrahima Konate, Denzel Dumfries; Aurelien Tchouameni, Federico Valverde; Yanis Diomande, Jude Bellingham, Arda Guler; Kylian Mbappe.

Sevilla (4-2-3-1): Odysseas Vlachodimos; Gabriel Suazo, Kike Salas, Diego Castrin, Juanlu Iglesias; Lucien Agoume, Arouna Sangante; Tomas Correia, Seko Fofana, Chidera Ejuke; Robbie Ure.

What time is the Real Madrid vs Sevilla match?

Real Madrid vs Sevilla kicks off on Sunday, October 18, at 3:00 PM ET in the United States. The LaLiga Matchday 9 game will take place at the Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid, Spain, with kickoff scheduled for 9:00 PM local time.

• Eastern Time: 3:00 PM
• Central Time: 2:00 PM
• Mountain Time: 1:00 PM
• Pacific Time: 12:00 PM

Kamara is dealing with a back injury that limited his participation in practice throughout the week and landed him on the Saints’ injury report ahead of Week 6 of the 2026 NFL season. He did practice on Friday, though in a limited capacity, and was initially listed as questionable, per ESPN.

So far in the 2026 NFL season, Kamara has played in four of New Orleans’ first five games (missing Week 1), rushing for 86 yards and two touchdowns while catching 13 passes for 41 yards.

Olave’s status

As for Olave, the Ohio State product is dealing with a different kind of setback. Despite the injury concerns surrounding him, Olave was listed as questionable due to an illness that limited his participation in Friday’s practice and earned him the questionable tag for Sunday’s game against the Giants, but he is finally active for this game.

Through his first five outings of the season, Olave has played some of the best football of his NFL career and is a big reason why the Saints have at times looked better than their 1-4 record suggests. Olave has caught 39 passes for 537 yards and a touchdown so far in the 2026 season.

Saints RB and WR depth chart

With question marks floating over Kamara and Olave, and IR stints sidelining other key members of both the rushing and receiving corps, the Saints appear knee-deep in trouble. As it stands, the running back room includes Kendre Miller and CJ Donaldson, in addition to Kamara (questionable) and Travis Etienne (IR).

As for the WR room, Olave’s uncertain status leaves Devaughn Vele, Bryce Lance, Barion Brown, and Cedric Tillman as the only fully available weapons to help Tyler Shough in the Big Apple. Just as John Harbaugh endorsed the Giants’ tight end to help the offense in Week 6, Kellen Moore may have to make a similar request of his tight end group.

Key takeaways

• Alvin Kamara and Chris Olave are not yet confirmed active for Week 6.
• Alvin Kamara listed questionable for the New Orleans Saints due to a back injury.
• Chris Olave listed questionable against the New York Giants due to an illness.

The Ohio State product’s won’t be suiting up after leaving Week 5 with a foot injury that hasn’t fully healed. For the time being, reports should keep Cleveland fans confident that Judkins injury is not serious, but tough enough to sideline him this week.

Head coach Todd Monken described Judkins’ status as “day-to-day,” but the fact that he practiced on Friday wasn’t enough for him to suit up on Sunday against the Ravens at Huntington Bank Field.

What happened to Judkins?

Coming off last week’s 17-12 loss against the New York Jets, Judkins was seen wearing a walking boot on his right foot, which immediately set off alarm bells in Cleveland.

Judkins was sidelined during the team’s practices on Wednesday and Thursday before returning for the final session of the week ahead of Sunday’s game against Baltimore.

Judkins’ projections

According to ESPN’s fantasy football app, Judkins was expected to play against the Ravens and even projected to put up 13.5 points, which would’ve been his second-best performance of the 2026 NFL season in point-per-reception (PPR) scoring. However, now it’s time to look for alternatives.

Browns RB depth chart

With Dylan Sampson still on Injured Reserve (IR) with a knee injury, the Browns are down to just Jaleel McLaughlin and Audric Estime as backfield options now that it’s been confirmed that Judkins can’t play against the Ravens.

Key takeaways

• Quinshon Judkins is ruled out for Cleveland against Baltimore due to a foot injury.
• Jaleel McLaughlin and Audric Estime remain Cleveland’s available running backs.
• Tyler Huntley starting at quarterback for Baltimore with Lamar Jackson ruled out in Week 6.

Insider Adam Schefter reported on Dowdle’s situation via his X account, with the running back having been sidelined since Week 2, and he is active. Meanwhile, Ian Rapoport was the one who indicated that Freiermuth is expected to suit up against the Bucs.

Steelers Nation is looking for its fourth win of the season, which would establish Pittsburgh as a serious contender in the AFC North. Having all his weapons available could prove crucial for Aaron Rodgers.

Dowdle and Freiermuth’s injuries

Both Pittsburgh offensive weapons hit bumps in the road early in 2026, but both are trending in the right direction. Rico Dowdle suffered a painful fractured toe back in Week 2 against the New England Patriots—he actually tweaked it in the second quarter while scrambling to cover a fumble, briefly returned, and then re-aggravated it late in the game, forcing him to miss three straight contests before returning to action.

Meanwhile, Pat Freiermuth popped up late on the injury report right before Week 6 with a calf strain, likely suffering the tweak during Saturday’s closed practice, though it proved to be a minor scare rather than a long-term setback.

Rodgers needs his weapons at full strength

At this point in his career, Aaron Rodgers relies heavily on rhythm, quick distribution, and a dependable ground game to keep opposing pass rushers off his back. Having Rico Dowdle back in the rotation alongside Jaylen Warren gives Rodgers a physical, between-the-tackles running thread (37 rushing yards on 15 carries, plus 28 receiving yards through 2 games) that forces defenses to stack the box.

Meanwhile, Pat Freiermuth has been Rodgers’ safety valve in the middle of the field and a lethal red-zone target, hauling in 14 receptions for 125 yards and 2 touchdowns. Together, Dowdle and Freiermuth alleviate the pressure on Rodgers, allowing the veteran quarterback to operate cleanly within the offense instead of constantly having to force tough throws downfield.

Key takeaways

• Rico Dowdle and Pat Freiermuth are expected to play against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
• Rico Dowdle missed three straight games after suffering a fractured toe in Week 2.
• Pat Freiermuth has recorded 14 receptions for 125 yards and two touchdowns this season.

Per Jordan Raanan of ESPN, there is an “expectation is there will be a change to the Giants RB rotation” this week vs the Saints. In fact, Raanan expects Skattebo to have even less snaps, with Najee Harris taking a bigger workload.

Head coach John Harbaugh is trying to make a change, as the Giants consider their running game to be rather stagnant. Najee Harris was promised a relevant role when he got signed, and it seems like this is his chance to do so.

Cam Skattebo’s fumbles are an issue

During his rookie season, Skattebo had just one fumble in eight games, but he also had seven total touchdowns. That has changed dramatically this year. Skattebo has four fumbles already, and has scored just once this season. Harbaugh is not one to take fumbles lightly. However, Harbaugh revealed the Giants plan to fix fumbles as better weather is expected to arrive.

Najee Harris will step up and eat a chunk of snaps. In his six seasons in the NFL, Harris has fumbled just six times, an average of one per year. In fact, he’s had zero fumbles in three of his six seasons.

All four NY Giants running backs are active

All four New York Giants running backs—Najee Harris, Cam Skattebo, Tyrone Tracy Jr., and Devin Singletary—are active for their Week 6 game against the New Orleans Saints.

Harris and Skattebo will serve as the primary ball-handlers, with Tracy and Singletary serving as active rotational options. Tracy is very useful in pass-catching options, while Singletary is a very good blocker.

Key takeaways

• The Giants expect a change to their RB rotation against the New Orleans Saints.
• Cam Skattebo has four fumbles and one touchdown so far this season.
• All four NY Giants running backs are active for their Week 6 game.

Williams completed a full week of practice without setbacks, and reports indicate that the Bears plan to start him in Atlanta. Although he was officially listed as questionable, his progress throughout the week has put him in position to make his return. Chicago will need its starting quarterback back as the team attempts to regain momentum in a competitive NFC North race.

Caleb has also acknowledged that he suffered a hamstring tear, but he has been frustrated by reports and speculation surrounding the severity of the injury. Rather than publicly confirming the grade of the tear, the quarterback pushed back against the rumors that circulated while he was sidelined. His return now gives him an opportunity to put the attention back on the field.

Is Caleb Williams playing today for Bears against Falcons?

Yes. Caleb Williams is playing for the Bears against the Falcons. His injury occurred during Chicago’s Week 2 game against the Minnesota Vikings, forcing him to miss three consecutive matchups. Now, he’s back.

During that stretch, the Bears used Case Keenum and Tyson Bagent at quarterback, managing two wins before suffering a heavy defeat against Green Bay. The loss exposed the team’s offensive struggles and increased the importance of getting Williams back under center.

The quarterback has made it clear that he was unhappy with the speculation surrounding his injury, particularly reports discussing its severity. While Williams confirmed that he suffered a tear, he did not reveal the grade of the injury. The Bears have instead focused on his ability to progress through practice and complete the physical tests required before returning to game action.

Chicago enters Week 6 with a 3-2 record after the painful loss to the Packers, leaving the team looking to respond against Atlanta. Williams’ return could provide stability at quarterback and help the offense rediscover its rhythm, but the Bears will also need to protect him as he resumes playing after several weeks away. Sunday’s game represents an important opportunity for Chicago to get back on track and strengthen its position in the NFC North.

Key takeaways

• Caleb Williams is expected to start against the Falcons after missing three games with a torn hamstring.
• Williams completed a full week of practice without setbacks.
• The Bears enter Week 6 at 3-2 after a painful loss to the Packers.

Penix was injured late in the fourth quarter against Baltimore and was unable to take part in the Falcons’ overtime possession. Veteran backup Tua Tagovailoa stepped in, but his appearance ended with an interception that sealed Atlanta’s 30-23 defeat. The loss was a frustrating setback for a team that had won two consecutive games before facing the Ravens.

With Penix back at practice and no longer carrying an injury designation, Atlanta has reason to feel encouraged heading into Sunday’s game. The Falcons will look to get their season back on track against a Chicago team that is also preparing to welcome Caleb Williams back after an injury absence.

What happened to Michael Penix Jr.?

Michael Penix Jr. suffered the rib injury late in the game against Baltimore after taking a hit. He briefly returned for one play but did not come back onto the field for overtime, leaving Tagovailoa to lead the offense. The backup quarterback threw an interception on his second play, ending Atlanta’s possession and giving the Ravens the opportunity to finish the game.

The Falcons monitored Penix throughout the week, and his participation in practice provided a positive sign for his availability. Head coach Kevin Stefanski said earlier in the week that Penix was expected to start as long as his recovery progressed without complications. The quarterback also indicated that he was feeling better, although neither he nor the team publicly disclosed the full extent of the rib injury.

Penix’s return is important for an Atlanta team that enters Week 6 with a 2-3 record and hopes to respond after the loss to Baltimore. Through his first three starts of the season, he has completed 67.5 percent of his passes for 719 yards, three touchdowns and one interception. With no injury designation and a full week of practice behind him, Penix is expected to lead the Falcons against the Bears on Sunday.

Key takeaways

• Michael Penix Jr. has no injury designation for Sunday’s game vs the Chicago Bears.
• He suffered a rib injury against the Ravens but completed a full week of practice.
• Tua Tagovailoa replaced him in overtime and threw a costly interception.

Mike Vrabel has spent the first five weeks of the season navigating obstacles, including injuries. However, signs of good news are slowly beginning to emerge in Foxborough.

According to NFL insider Ian Rapoport via his X account, TreVeyon Henderson and Will Campbell are also likely to play in this divisional matchup. Both players were listed as questionable heading into the game.

AJ Brown has put his injury behind him

A.J. Brown suffered a severe high ankle sprain in Week 1 during his New England Patriots debut against the Seattle Seahawks. The injury occurred in the third quarter after a tackle, forcing him out of the game and leading the team to place him on Injured Reserve (IR).

Fortunately, it didn’t require surgery, but it sidelined him for four straight games. The good news is he just had his 21-day practice window opened and was officially activated off IR ahead of Week 6.

Maye’s options through the air

Although Brown arrived in Foxborough as the team’s WR1, his early-season injury forced Drake Maye to rely on other players to attack opposing defenses through the air.

Key takeaways

• A.J. Brown is expected to return for the New England Patriots against the New York Jets.
• TreVeyon Henderson and Will Campbell are also likely to play in this divisional matchup according to Ian Rapoport.
• A.J. Brown suffered a severe high ankle sprain in Week 1 against the Seattle Seahawks.