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Best odds from UK bookmakers on the biggest races of Breeders' Cup Friday and Saturday

Find out about Paddy Power’s latest free bet offer for Saturday’s lunchtime kick-off

The NBA Cup starts Friday, and the opening slate is loaded with stars worth building picks around. Betr is offering new users promo code FOXNEWS to get $200 in bonuses plus four free picks for the tournament’s first night.

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Five Players to Build Your Picks Around

Pick’em lives and dies on stars, and Friday has plenty of them.

• Jalen Brunson, Knicks: Last year’s Cup MVP opens his title defense in Philadelphia. New York has started slow, which usually means more on Brunson’s plate.
• Luka Dončić, Lakers: Luka is the full-time engine in Los Angeles now, and a 10:00 p.m. ET tip at Golden State gives him the late window to himself.
• Kevin Durant, Rockets: Durant’s scoring floor is as steady as anyone’s in the league. He gets a Dallas team that will throw a lot of different looks at him.
• Cooper Flagg, Mavericks: The reigning Rookie of the Year is taking on a bigger role in Year 2. Durant, on the other side makes this a match-up worth watching closely.
• Nikola Jokić, Nuggets: The safest box-score stuffer in basketball closes the night in Phoenix. Points, rebounds and assists are all in play.

What’s at Stake

Thirty teams are split into six groups of five, and each plays four Group Play games. Only the six group winners and one wild card per conference reach the knockout rounds, which start Dec. 4. The championship is Dec. 11 at Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. One bad night in a five-team group can end a run before Thanksgiving.

NBA Cup Opening Night | Friday, Oct. 30

• Hornets at Wizards, 7:00 p.m. ET
• Bulls at Celtics, 7:30 p.m. ET
• Pistons at Nets, 7:30 p.m. ET
• Knicks at 76ers, 7:30 p.m. ET
• Magic at Raptors, 7:30 p.m. ET
• Pacers at Heat, 8:00 p.m. ET
• Rockets at Mavericks, 8:00 p.m. ET
• Clippers at Timberwolves, 8:00 p.m. ET
• Lakers at Warriors, 10:00 p.m. ET
• Nuggets at Suns, 10:00 p.m. ET

Ten games, a dozen stars and a title race that starts immediately. Sign up with Betr promo code FOXNEWS to get $200 in bonuses plus four free picks for the NBA Cup.

Thirty teams, six groups and one trip to Indianapolis on the line. The NBA Cup opens Friday with 10 games, and BetMGM is giving new users bonus code FOXNEWS to unlock up to $1,500 in First Bet Cover. If your first wager loses, BetMGM refunds your stake in bonus bets.

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Why a Big First Bet Makes Sense Friday

Opening night of a group stage is where the market is thinnest. Books have a handful of regular-season games to go on, rosters are still settling, and every team in a five-team group knows one loss can end its Cup hopes before December. That’s the kind of slate where a backstop on your first bet matters most. Last year, the NBA Cup winner went on to win the NBA Finals. Could we see that again this season? 

Three Games Worth Your First Bet

Knicks at 76ers, 7:30 p.m. ET: The Knicks swept the Cup and the NBA title last year, but they’ve opened this season flat. Philadelphia has Tyrese Maxey and LeBron James at home in the toughest group in the East. If you think the champs are being priced on last year’s résumé, this is the spot to test it.

Rockets at Mavericks, 8:00 p.m. ET: Kevin Durant against Cooper Flagg, with Kyrie Irving back for Dallas. West Group A also includes Denver, so the Mavericks can’t afford to give away a home game on night one.

Lakers at Warriors, 10:00 p.m. ET: Luka Dončić runs the show in Los Angeles now, and Golden State’s rookie Yaxel Lendeborg has been one of the early storylines of the season. Late tip, national spotlight, two teams in a West Group C that also has San Antonio.

Full NBA Cup Slate: Friday, Oct. 30

• Hornets at Wizards, 7:00 p.m. ET
• Bulls at Celtics, 7:30 p.m. ET
• Pistons at Nets, 7:30 p.m. ET
• Knicks at 76ers, 7:30 p.m. ET
• Magic at Raptors, 7:30 p.m. ET
• Pacers at Heat, 8:00 p.m. ET
• Rockets at Mavericks, 8:00 p.m. ET
• Clippers at Timberwolves, 8:00 p.m. ET
• Lakers at Warriors, 10:00 p.m. ET
• Nuggets at Suns, 10:00 p.m. ET

The knockout rounds start Dec. 4, and the championship is Dec. 11 at Hinkle Fieldhouse. Get your first wager covered up to $1,500 with BetMGM bonus code FOXNEWS.

The NBA Cup tips off tonight with 10 games on the board, and every one of them counts twice: once in the standings and once in the race for Indianapolis. Fanatics Sportsbook is offering new users promo code FOXNEWS350 to bet $20 and get $350 in FanCash.

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The Champs Open on the Road

The Knicks won the NBA Cup and the NBA title last season, and nobody has ever repeated as Cup champion. Their defense of the crown starts in Philadelphia, where Jalen Brunson runs into Tyrese Maxey and LeBron James. New York has been sluggish to start the year, and East Group B doesn’t hand out free wins. Cleveland, Miami and Indiana are all in the same pod, and it's set to be an early-season battle. 

Durant and Flagg Headline the West

Houston at Dallas might be the best individual matchup of the night. Kevin Durant is still one of the most efficient scorers alive, and Cooper Flagg is coming off a Rookie of the Year season with Kyrie Irving looking healthy beside him. In a five-team group with Denver and Phoenix, a home loss for the Mavericks could be costly by late November, in probably the strongest group in the West. 

Late Window: Luka in San Francisco

The night closes with Lakers at Warriors at 10:00 p.m. ET. Luka Dončić has the keys in Los Angeles, and Golden State gets a measuring stick for rookie Yaxel Lendeborg, who has been one of the early-season stories. Nikola Jokić and the Nuggets tip at the same time in Phoenix.

NBA Cup Schedule: Friday, Oct. 30

7:00 p.m. ET

• Charlotte Hornets at Washington Wizards

7:30 p.m. ET

• Chicago Bulls at Boston Celtics
• Detroit Pistons at Brooklyn Nets
• New York Knicks at Philadelphia 76ers
• Orlando Magic at Toronto Raptors

8:00 p.m. ET

• Indiana Pacers at Miami Heat
• Houston Rockets at Dallas Mavericks
• LA Clippers at Minnesota Timberwolves

10:00 p.m. ET

• Los Angeles Lakers at Golden State Warriors
• Denver Nuggets at Phoenix Suns

Only six group winners and two wild cards make the knockout rounds, so there’s no margin for a slow start. Bet $20 on any game tonight with Fanatics Sportsbook promo code FOXNEWS350 and get $350 in FanCash.

The NBA Cup is back Friday night, and the league isn’t easing into it. Ten Group Play games tip off on Oct. 30, starting with the defending champion Knicks heading to Philadelphia. Underdog is offering new users promo code FOXNEWS to play for $10 and get $50 in bonus entries.

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How the 2026 NBA Cup Works

All 30 teams are split into six groups of five, and each team plays the other four in its group once. The six group winners advance to the knockout rounds along with one wild card from each conference. Every game except the championship counts toward the regular-season standings, so nobody gets to treat Friday like a preseason scrimmage.

The quarterfinals start Dec. 4 and will be played in NBA markets league wide. The title game is Dec. 11 at Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, the first time the Cup final leaves Las Vegas. The Knicks won it all last year, then won the NBA title too. Nobody has ever repeated as Cup champion. Could the 1-3 Knicks use the NBA Cup to jump start its season? 

NBA Cup Opening Night Slate | Friday, Oct. 30

• Hornets at Wizards, 7:00 p.m. ET: Brandon Miller vs. Trae Young. Washington paired Young with Anthony Davis this offseason, and Charlotte’s young core gets an early test in a winnable group.
• Bulls at Celtics, 7:30 p.m. ET: Josh Giddey vs. a Boston team with something to prove. The Celtics have bowed out in the group stage two years running. East Group C is theirs to lose.
• Pistons at Nets, 7:30 p.m. ET: Cade Cunningham is the best player on the floor by a wide margin. Brooklyn needs to steal games like this to stay alive in East Group A.
• Knicks at 76ers, 7:30 p.m. ET: Jalen Brunson vs. Tyrese Maxey and LeBron James. The defending champs have stumbled out of the gate, and there’s no softer landing spot in the toughest group in the tournament.
• Magic at Raptors, 7:30 p.m. ET: Paolo Banchero vs. Kawhi Leonard. Orlando’s offense has been streaky. Toronto is balanced and dangerous at home.
• Pacers at Heat, 8:00 p.m. ET: Tyrese Haliburton vs. Giannis Antetokounmpo. Haliburton is still working his way back to form, and Miami desperately needs a win to change the tone of its early season.
• Rockets at Mavericks, 8:00 p.m. ET: Kevin Durant vs. Cooper Flagg. The reigning Rookie of the Year gets a crack at one of the greatest scorers ever, with Kyrie Irving back in the lineup for Dallas.
• Clippers at Timberwolves, 8:00 p.m. ET: Darius Garland vs. LaMelo Ball. Both guards are running new teams, and both need a fast start in a West Group B that also includes Oklahoma City.
• Lakers at Warriors, 10:00 p.m. ET: Luka Dončić vs. Yaxel Lendeborg. Lendeborg has been the talk of the early season, and Luka is the kind of test that tells you whether it’s real.
• Nuggets at Suns, 10:00 p.m. ET: Nikola Jokić closes the night in Phoenix. Denver is the clear favorite in West Group A, and the Suns can’t afford to drop a home game in a five-team group.

Every game Friday counts in the standings and in the Cup race, and a single loss can sink a team’s knockout chances. Play $10 on any NBA Cup game with Underdog promo code FOXNEWS and get $50 in bonus entries.

Costco really has it all. From bulk groceries and electronics to household goods, specialty services and even LeBron James’ game-worn shoes.

Yes, you read that correctly. Costco is selling an autographed pair of James’ game-worn shoes from March 22, 2024, for $69,999.99. For anyone who happens to have an extra $70,000 lying around, the shoes are hand-signed by the NBA legend himself and inscribed with "Prime Year 21."

According to Costco’s website, the shoes are authenticated with FanSecure Technology and come with a letter from sports investors showing a photo-match.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE OUTKICK SPORTS COVERAGE

On March 22, 2024, James and Anthony Davis led the Los Angeles Lakers to a 101-94 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers with a fourth-quarter surge. James scored 20 points with eight rebounds and six assists in the win.

However, if you don’t have $70,000 in your back pocket for James’ game-worn sneakers, have no fear. Costco also has Giannis Antetokounmpo’s game-worn sneakers available for purchase for just $9,999.99.

THE CRAIG CARTON SHOW–UNFILTERED, UNAPOLOGETIC AND UNMISSABLE. DOWNLOAD HIS DAILY PODCAST NOW!

Antetokounmpo wore the shoes as a member of the Milwaukee Bucks on Aug. 31, 2020, when the NBA was playing in the bubble during the COVID-19 pandemic. The shoes are autographed by Antetokounmpo and have "2019-20 GAME WORN, THE BUBBLE" inscribed on them.

Now, if you don’t have an extra $10,000 lying around and you were desperately hoping to purchase game-worn shoes from NBA stars on Costco’s website, you are out of luck. Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum’s game-worn sneakers were also available for $3,199.99, but someone already swooped in and ordered them.

OUTKICK IS NOW AVAILABLE ON THE FOX NEWS APP: CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD

Tatum wore the sneakers on March 28, 2023, and signed them. The sneakers also featured his son’s name, Deuce, on the back of each shoe, accompanied by a heart.

Costco provides quality goods and services, with a splash of game-worn shoes from NBA stars thrown into the mix.

Which bookmakers give you the most control over locking in a bet before the final whistle, and how do their cash out tools actually differ?

Find out about Coral’s latest free bet offer for Liverpool’s clash with champions Arsenal in the Premier League

The Carolina Panthers have made the first coordinator firing of the NFL season.

After the team's 27-19 loss to the Green Bay Packers on Thursday night at Lambeau Field, the Panthers announced Friday that they had fired defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero and defensive passing game coordinator Jonathan Cooley. The loss was the Panthers' second straight and dropped them to 3-4.

The Panthers named defensive line coach Todd Wash their interim defensive coordinator and play-caller.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE OUTKICK SPORTS COVERAGE

Evero, 45, had been head coach Dave Canales' defensive coordinator since 2024. In his first season, the Panthers' defense allowed 31.4 points per game, which was last in the NFL, but the unit improved in 2025. Last season, the defense allowed 23 points per game, which ranked 16th in the NFL.

However, the unit has regressed this season, as its points allowed have climbed to 27.6 per game, which ranks 27th in the NFL. Unfortunately for Evero, his unit has been decimated by injuries.

The Panthers have played the last few games without starting cornerbacks Jaycee Horn and Mike Jackson. Backup cornerback Akayleb Evans joined them on injured reserve earlier this week. In addition, linebackers Nic Scourton (ACL) and Thomas Incoom (calf injury) and defensive tackle Cam Jackson (shoulder injury) are also on IR.

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Despite being 3-4, the Panthers are still atop the lowly NFC South, and Canales is hoping Wash can spark the defense as they seek their second straight division title.

Wash joined Carolina’s staff in 2023 and has 31 years of coaching experience, including 20 in the NFL. He spent five seasons serving as the defensive coordinator for the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Jaguars had the second-ranked defense in the league in 2017 under Wash and advanced to the AFC Championship game.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

Outside linebackers coach/run game specialist AC Carter’s responsibilities will expand to include coaching the defensive line, the Panthers announced.

The Panthers will look to right the ship when they play the Denver Broncos (5-2) a week from Sunday.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

So, you thought this would be an average coaching carousel compared to previous years?

If history is any indication, it only takes one domino to fall in college football for the chaos to begin.

After Maryland decided to fire coach Mike Locksley, we now have three openings in college football (NC State, Baylor) before a weekend slate of games that could trigger further discussions on a number of coaches that are teetering on the edge.

But, as we've all seen over the past year, the financial aspect of making moves in this current climate of college athletics will also play a pivotal role in what this carousel looks like as we head down the final stretch of the regular season.

COLLEGE FOOTBALL'S JERRY JONES? TEXAS TECH BOOSTER CODY CAMPBELL DEMANDS RETURN ON INVESTMENT

Also, the situation in Tallahassee continues to be in flux, with the Florida State administration pleading with fans to show up for the student-athletes, with no mention of head coach Mike Norvell in their statement earlier this week.

There are a number of folks around the Seminoles program that would prefer not paying a reported $50 million buyout, and potentially allocating those funds towards piecing a competitive roster for the 2027 season.

FLORIDA STATE FIRES AD MICHAEL ALFORD, AS MIKE NORVELL’S SEAT REACHES A BOILING POINT IN TALLAHASSEE

Here are two of the more intriguing situations currently taking place across college football, that could lead to a number of dominos falling.

So, let's take a look at where we are, after speaking with multiple sources across the country.

If Lincoln Riley loses to Ohio State this weekend, the temperature will only rise

After losing to Wisconsin last weekend, with a disastrous effort on offense, folks around the USC program are starting to wonder what the future holds for the Trojans head coach that made it clear this week he wants to remain in Los Angeles.

Well sure, a lot of coaches would love to keep their jobs at schools that are described as 'premier' in the sport.

For Lincoln Riley, the ongoing chatter among those within the industry is that if USC were to lose to a backup quarterback from Ohio State on Saturday, the situation could turn very quick.

LINCOLN RILEY ADDRESSES USC FUTURE SPECULATION AHEAD OF HUGE OHIO STATE SHOWDOWN

Remember, athletic director Jen Cohen did not hire Lincoln. As we previously reported on this matter, there have already been questions as to whether Riley could find himself an escape hatch that opens back up in his home state of Texas.

We all know he's a competitor, but leaving USC for a return to the Big 12 at a school like Baylor might not be the worst thing for a head coach who is hanging on by a thread at his current employer. Also, what about a school like TCU, if they were to move on from Sonny Dykes?

The reported $70 million buyout for Lincoln Riley could be mitigated if he were to take another job within college football, so that number could actually drop, though it would be interesting to see by how much.

Yes, the USC head coach can say all of the right things about how much he loves his job, and that he's had opportunities to leave Los Angeles in the past. But, there is a real possibility that if USC were to lose on Saturday night, another two losses could be on the way against Indiana and UCLA.

And, pay attention to what happens if Lincoln were to be fired in regard to who could potentially be a top candidate. There are a lot of folks wondering if Kalen DeBoer would enjoy getting the band back together with his former athletic director, Jen Cohen at USC.

It's a mess at Colorado for the athletic department regarding Deion Sanders

OK, the honeymoon period ended two years ago for Coach Prime in Boulder.

Remember when Deion Sanders dared the media to write the truth about what was taking place at Colorado?

Yea, I don't imagine he thought that one through.

DEION SANDERS DARED THE MEDIA TO WRITE THE TRUTH ABOUT COLORADO FOOTBALL: OK, IT'S TIME TO END THIS CHARADE

It was the 2024 season that gave Colorado fans something to savor, thanks in large part to Travis Hunter and Shedeur Sanders, along with a group of teammates who bought into what Coach Prime was instilling within Boulder.

Then came a 3-9 season in 2025, followed by a squad that is currently 2-5 after additional collapses over the past few weeks.

MAHJONG IS THE NEW TAILGATE GAME TAKING OVER COLLEGE FOOTBALL FOR WOMEN — AND EVEN AT HOME WITH HEAD COACHES

Deion has spent more time getting into arguments with local media over the last two seasons than actually promoting his program. He thought things would go a different way after Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter left, with recruits and portal stars wanting to flock towards Colorado.

What we've seen since has been abysmal. Would athletic director Fernando Lovo be able to garner enough support to justify paying Deion Sanders somewhere around $25 million to go away?

We might find that part out sooner rather than later, especially if the Buffaloes were to lose again this weekend to Kansas State.

The celebrities are no longer showing up and the patience has run out in Boulder.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

But, would Deion leave on his own, or force Colorado to pay his buyout while knowing it could become contentious?

There are a number of jobs around college football that could be forced open over the next month, as we enter a potential wild month of November and the end of the regular season.

Stay tuned to OutKick for the latest.

Let me know what you think. Email me your thoughts at Trey.Wallace@Outkick.com

Here's the bad news: The Atlanta Dream defeated the Golden State Valkyries on Thursday to force a Game 7.

The good news? Regardless of what happens on Saturday, there will be no more WNBA until next May. That's right. Our long, national nightmare of trans debates and Sophie Cunningham slander and national anthem nonsense will go into hibernation for seven glorious months.

And, frankly, we've earned it. It's exhausting. This whole season has been exhausting. It's also been the longest season in the history of sports. It just won't end!

FROM ANTHEMS TO DEFINITIONS, THE WNBA KEEPS DOING DUMB THINGS, AND THE REASON FOR IT WILL LEAVE YOU SPEECHLESS

Now, don't get me wrong — I enjoyed the content during the summer months. It kept the lights on around here when there was no football. We needed a spark, and Sophie Cunningham gave us one because she's a patriot.

God bless her.

SOPHIE CUNNINGHAM ACTED LIKE AN ADULT THIS WEEKEND WHILE ANGEL REESE PANDERED, RED-HOT RED SOX & CUBS SMACK!

Everyone else, though? I'm out on them. Thank goodness that league is on the doorstep of the offseason. It can't get here fast enough.

Before we go, though, I do have one final collection of Angel Reese highlights that are currently going mega-viral on social media in the wake of yesterday's win.

Reese ... did not have her best game:

Angel Reese has had a solid season, but Game 6 was a struggle

Thoughts? First impressions?

Look, it was a tough game for Angel Reese. No sugarcoating it. No hiding it. Just to show you how truly bad everyone else was, Reese somehow finished with a +/- of +10, which is stunning given she turned the ball over six times and made just 27% of her shots.

Feels like that shouldn't equate to positive play on the court, but what do I know?

Sometimes, you just have a tough day at the office. That's what Angel experienced yesterday afternoon in a potential close-out WNBA Finals game.

And yes — there was an actual WNBA Finals game played at noon yesterday. Amazing. That's another story in itself, and one I don't care much about.

What I do care about is Angel Reese. She was solid early on in these finals, but the last few games have been a struggle. Perhaps she's getting tired of having to field questions from OutKick's Dan Zaksheske every other night when the league actually grants us a question?

WNBA PLAYERS, COACHES REFUSE TO EXPLAIN NATIONAL ANTHEM ABSENCES AMID MOUNTING CRITICISM

Could be.

Or, perhaps the pressure-cooker that is the WNBA Finals is just getting to her? Seems like a real possibility.

Again, yesterday wasn't her best:

Oh well. What's done is done. The series shifts back to Golden State for one final WNBA game in 2026. This one is for all the marbles, folks.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Will Angel rise to the moment? Will both teams disrespect our great national anthem for the 400th time? Will some gaslighting coach wear a "Trans Kids Lives Matters" shirt on the sideline? Better yet, will Angel wear another "Protect Black Women" shirt in 2026?

Most importantly, will anyone watch since it's at 8 p.m. on a college football Saturday night and it's also Halloween night?

Stay tuned!

Follow our tipster's Chelsea vs Manchester United predictions ahead of the Saturday lunchtime clash

Rob Gronkowski is calling for the NFL to institute referee punishments amid a slew of questionable officiating decisions this season. The New England Patriots legend also revealed he is skeptical of his long-time team's chances at getting back to the Super Bowl, and suggested they made it last year due to a weak schedule.

Gronkowki shared his bevy of strong takes, revealed some newly-unearthed secrets about Bill Belichick's strangest rules, and revealed a new technology he is using to heal his body from the wear and tear of football in an interview with OutKick.

'Put the referees on a pedestal'

Gronkowski believes officials should face consequences just as the players and coaches whose games they help decide do.

"So yeah, I think, you know, it would be fair and square to, you know, put the referees on a pedestal as well and — and have punishment just like any coach or any NFL player can be punished just like that," Gronkowski said.

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Asked whether the NFL needs more accountability for officials, Gronkowski pointed to how quickly a player’s fortunes can change.

"I think so, actually, because players are accountable. Players can be cut the very next day and you’ve seen players cut," he continued.

Gronkowski’s comments followed Tom Brady’s criticism of several calls during the Detroit Lions’ 20-17 win over the Green Bay Packers during Sunday's NFL on FOX broadcast. Brady and FOX rules analyst Dean Blandino disputed multiple decisions, including roughing-the-passer penalties and an intentional grounding call.

Gronkowski agreed with his former quarterback’s broader concerns.

"I don’t think the referees are doing that great of a job. I think they can definitely improve," he said.

He identified pass interference and roughing-the-passer calls as areas that need improvement before the postseason, warning that incorrect flags could determine games.

"We want it to be fair and square. That’s what fans want to see," he said. "Yes, you call it when it’s appropriate, but when it’s not appropriate, you know, it doesn’t need to be called and affects the game in all ways."

NFL FINES THREE HEAD COACHES $250,000 FOR THEIR CONDUCT TOWARD OFFICIALS: REPORT

The NFL already grades officials on every play, according to its Football Operations website. Those evaluations help determine postseason assignments.

Gronkowski also recalled his own frustration with offensive pass interference penalties when defenders collided with him.

"It was just me running and I was just a bigger body. So the guy would bounce off of me, you know, even though he ran into me and then I would get the flag. It just didn’t make any sense," he said.

Patriots have work to do before another Super Bowl run

The Patriots enter Week 8 at 4-3 after a 30-24 loss to the Chicago Bears, and have shown signs of regression after reaching the Super Bowl last year.

"Their schedule definitely was pretty, pretty simple last year. They’re playing tougher opponents this year, tougher defenses. I think that has more to play with it," Gronkowski said of the Patriots. "I definitely think the schedule plays a part in it for sure. It really does."

Gronkowski sees a playoff team in New England. He is less convinced he sees a championship team.

"The Patriots, I think, are a pretty solid, you know, football team. And I think they’re going to make the playoffs. They definitely have a chance at winning their division. They just got to pick it up," he said.

"I just don’t see enough right now for them to be a potential, you know, Super Bowl candidate."

NFL REFS HAVE SET ALL-TIME RECORD FOR FLAGS THIS SEASON, AND IT'S CHANGING THE OUTCOME OF GAMES

Gronkowski also pointed offensive injuries and the need for more playmakers. He said New England’s offense had been clicking more consistently last season.

"They’re just having some problems right now, a couple injuries, injuries all across the offensive line. They’re depleted there. So I think the injuries, you know, to the offensive unit is playing a crucial part as well," he said.

"And once they get everyone back and AJ Brown gets fully healthy, I think they can start clicking at a high level then."

Asked what he would bring to the current locker room, Gronkowski emphasized experience and a belief that the team can win regardless of the circumstances.

"I would say just a mentality of bringing it at practice and also having just a winning mentality that, hey, no matter the situation, we’re going to come, we’re going to find a way to win this game," he said.

Gronkowski’s health after football, and what Brady and Belichick taught him for life

Gronkowski’s memories of the Patriots include Bill Belichick’s rules for what players could do away from the field — including a ban on burning incense in hotel rooms.

"He said, not even incense are allowed to be burned in your hotel room," Gronkowski recalled, explaining that Belichick wanted to leave no room for interpretation about burning anything.

But the rule that bothered him most involved where veteran players had to sleep during training camp.

"I would just say the most wildest one, though, was having veteran players stay at the hotel, even though their homes are closer to the facility than the hotel throughout training camp," he said.

"That definitely drove a couple of veteran players like myself crazy."

Still, Gronkowski said he understood the reasoning behind Belichick’s strict approach. He credited Belichick and Brady with shaping his habits, calling them "the two biggest leaders of my life."

Brady’s approach to food and preparation, in particular, offered a lesson Gronkowski could carry beyond football.

"He didn’t force it down anyone, but you just watch him. That’s what it’s all about is leading by example," Gronkowski said.

Now, Gronkowski’s own priorities include staying active and managing the physical toll of his playing career.

"If you have your health, you know, you have everything," he said.

He continues to work out and incorporates hot yoga, saunas and float tanks into his routine. He also discussed his partnership with DNA Vibe, whose Jazz Band wearable he credits with helping him manage aches and pains.

"You got to ask someone that truly knows the science behind red light therapy, but, you know, I just like to do it because I’ve tried it, you know, through my own experiences and it works," he said.

DNA Vibe founder and CEO Perry Kamel said the device combines red and infrared light, micro-vibration and magnetic pulses, which the company markets as supporting the body’s natural recovery processes.

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"One of the things that I love about being at DNA Vibe is that the mission of the company is to help every single person live at their peak potential no matter who you are,"

Gronkowski is also promoting a 30‑Day free tryout for the product.

What JJ McCarthy shares with Tom Brady

Gronkowski sees a connection between McCarthy and Brady, but it has more to do with their response to adversity than their playing styles.

"They’re totally different quarterbacks, they really really are," he said. "The only similarities is that you’ve got to go through adversity to be great."

Both quarterbacks played in big games for Michigan, and then didn't have the smoothest starts to their NFL careers.

Brady was famously a sixth-round draft pick who had to spend a year climbing the New England depth chart just to reach the backup role at the start of year two. McCarthy, the No. 10 overall pick in 2024, had to work his way back into a starting role after losing his job in Minnesota and getting traded to the Giants.

The Vikings traded McCarthy to the Giants on Sept. 28 for a 2027 fifth-round pick. He completed 20 of 28 passes for 252 yards in his first Giants start, a 27-21 overtime win over the Houston Texans on Sunday.

Gronkowski said McCarthy had shown he was prepared when another opportunity arrived, drawing a comparison to Brady’s readiness when he moved from backup to starter.

"That’s also very similar as well is when your number is called and you’re ready to go," he said.

He believes McCarthy can help take New York to the postseason.

"I really do think he has what it takes to take the Giants team to the playoffs," Gronkowski said. "He has a resurgence, he has vengeance within his eyes and that’s what I saw."

The NFL’s growing celebrity couple culture

Gronkowski also defended the attention surrounding NFL players’ celebrity relationships, particularly Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift.

"I think it boosted it to a whole other level. I think it got more eyeballs on the game. I think it was great for the NFL to expand its broadcasts to expand to its fan base," he said of their relationship.

"Overall I just see that it was very positive and it helped out tremendously because NFL wants to grow. It wants to grow in the US. It wants to grow overseas and it couldn’t have been a better situation with those two."

Asked whether the focus on celebrity couples could annoy fans, Gronkowski rejected the idea that broadcasts have gone too far.

"I think it’s great for visibility and I don’t think it’s overexposed at all. It’s not like they’re sitting down doing interviews with them. They’re just showing their partner cheering for them and that’s just like any other relationship in life," he said.

"Every partner’s cheering for their partner and that’s what life is all about. I think it’s great and it’s not overexposed at all either and it’s just perfect where it’s at."

Gronkowski expects Jay-Z to ‘bring the heat’

Gronkowski is also optimistic about the entertainment planned for the NFL’s biggest stage.

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Jay-Z was announced Monday as the Super Bowl LXI halftime performer. The game is scheduled for Feb. 14, 2027, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. His company, Roc Nation, has partnered with the NFL on the halftime show since 2019.

Asked about Jay-Z choosing himself for the performance, Gronkowski suggested that would be a reason to expect something special.

"You know, I can tell you this, if Jay Z is in control of picking the halftime show and he picks himself, I can tell you this, expect a hell of a show because I’m not picking myself unless if I know I’m going to bring the heat," he said.

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"So you know, Jay Z has something up his sleeve and it’s going to be popping."

To say that expectations were high at USC heading into the 2026 college football season would be an understatement.

The Trojans, especially head coach Lincoln Riley, were adamant that this year would be different than the recent disappointments. SC finished 9-3 in 2025, brought in the number one recruiting class in the country, added some talent at key positions in the transfer portal, and returned starting quarterback Jayden Maiava after a strong 2025. They hired former TCU head coach Gary Patterson to run the defense. In theory, the elements had finally come together to return the program to prominence. And they said as much.

"The time is now," the marketing campaign went. Riley gave interviews in the spring, including one to On3, where he said the administration got "serious" about competing at the highest levels of college football.

LINCOLN RILEY’S USC TENURE COULD END WITH LOSS AGAINST OHIO STATE’S BACKUP QUARTERBACK, AND $70M BUYOUT

"USC had to get really serious about being great in the sport again," he explained. " I give the school administration — everybody — credit. They have.

"Taking this over, you knew you had to go fight like hell just to try to get this window opened," Riley said. "And we’re at a point right now where there’s a lot to be excited about and a lot in front of us. It’s been a lot of work for a lot of people, a lot of commitment from a lot of people to get there, and it should be a lot of fun these next few years."

"We came here to win championships," he continued. " A lot of us have been fortunate enough to be a part of a lot of championships. We certainly didn’t come here for anything less. We’ve got to go buckle down and improve and really come together, but there’s the makings of a championship-level football team in that building right now."

Fast-forward to late-October, and they're anything but. After an inexcusable loss to Wisconsin this past weekend, USC is now 6-2 and unranked in the AP Poll. While they had a nice win over Penn State in a hostile "White Out" environment in Happy Valley, the Trojans lost at home to a very mediocre Oregon Ducks team playing a backup quarterback.

The seven points they scored against the Badgers on the road, after a bye week no less, represented the lowest point total of any Lincoln Riley-coached team. With a senior quarterback in his third season in the program and a very highly-paid offensive line. Naturally, the defense wasn't good enough to keep the game close. It never is.

The performance, the record, the mediocrity, the consistent underachievement ... all of it has led to rampant, and growingly serious, speculation that Riley's job is contingent on a strong finish to the season. Perfect timing to host Ohio State and go on the road to face Indiana.

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Part of the speculation is the assumption, or the observation, that Riley doesn't seem fully connected to the USC program. That he's ready to move on as much as the SC fanbase is ready to move on from him.

He addressed those questions and opinions at a news conference this week, saying that he's fully committed to staying in LA and that SC is where he belongs.

LINCOLN RILEY HOT SEAT RUMORS GET LOUDER AFTER 'FIRE LINCOLN' CHANTS DURING USC-WASHINGTON

"Listen, if I didn't want to be at this place, I wouldn't have come here in the first place. I've had plenty of opportunities to leave," Riley explained Tuesday afternoon. "This is where I want to be. This is the right place for me. I'm the right person to be here. And that's as honest and transparent as I can be with you guys.

"I love it here. I mean like I told you guys a lot of times — there's not many people in college football history that gave up what I gave up to come here," Riley said. "I don't care if it's 15 years down the line, that never should be taken lightly. It's certainly not taken lightly by me. I came here because I believe in this place and none of that has changed whatsoever."

That's an interesting way to put it, because it's not exactly clear what Riley "gave up" to come to SC. He got a huge raise in salary. He locked in a massive buyout, ensuring generational wealth no matter how well he coached. He went from living in Norman, Oklahoma, to a palatial $35 million mansion on top of a hill overlooking the Pacific Ocean, acquired for him by USC. What was the big sacrifice he made? Theoretically losing favor with Oklahoma fans, but uh, you know, $100+ million can make up for some mean comments by anonymous message board accounts.

Riley said that he has a great relationship with USC's Athletic Director Jen Cohen, and said she's been a "huge part of the progress that we've made."

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Though again, it's not clear what progress he's referring to. USC went 11-1 in the regular season in his first year in LA, thanks in large part to Heisman Trophy winner Caleb Williams. They haven't won 10 games since, and have to win while playing three top-10 teams to do so in 2026.

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As for his demeanor, which can sometimes give off the impression he doesn't care, Riley addressed that too.

"When you're a head coach of a blue-blood school, you have to be ready to weather the storms, the overly positive or the overly negative," he said. "Typically, what I've learned from doing this for a few years, I haven't learned it all, but the truth typically lies somewhere in the middle. And that's typically where it's at even if you know that it's going to sensationalize. And so my job is to stay steady."

Well, that's all true. And all well and good. But when your team comes out lifeless for road game after road game, loses games it should win to programs like Minnesota, Maryland and Wisconsin, and struggles against Oregon or Notre Dame, it's reasonable to question. Watching what Curt Cignetti has done at Indiana, or even Bob Chesney in his first year at UCLA, it's easy to see why there's such disappointment in Riley's work at SC. There's little toughness, discipline, or consistency on the roster. And always another special teams mistake.

Riley might be committed to USC, but that's a two-way street. And Saturday's game, Ohio State playing with potentially a true freshman backup quarterback on the road, might be enough to end the Trojans' commitment to him. Baylor anyone?

The Green Bay Packers opened Week 8 with a crucial win, keeping pace in a tightly contested NFC North race.

Jordan Love threw for 288 yards and three touchdowns as Green Bay defeated the Carolina Panthers 27-19 at Lambeau Field Thursday night.

Bryce Young was sacked six times and threw an interception as Carolina lost its second straight game. Despite the setback, the Panthers remain atop the NFC South and hold the head-to-head tiebreaker after defeating division rival Atlanta in Week 2.

BREWERS CONTINUE WORLD SERIES CELEBRATION, RAISE COMMISSIONER’S TROPHY AT LAMBEAU FIELD DURING PACKERS GAME

Packers wide receiver Christian Watson got taken to the hospital after injuring his chest in the second quarter, only to return to the game in the second half.

Watson’s injury occurred as he made a 53-yard catch, with Panthers cornerback Will Lee also getting hurt on the play while making a diving stop. Lee was carted into the locker room with a hamstring injury and didn’t return to the game.

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After getting sent to the hospital for examination, Watson returned to Lambeau Field and received a huge ovation as he headed back to the field after the Packers had extended their lead to 27-10 in the third quarter. Watson returned to the game later in the third, after Ryan Fitzgerald’s 50-yard field goal made it 27-13.

Brewers take victory lap at Lambeau Field

Less than 24 hours after the Milwaukee Brewers captured the franchise’s first World Series title, the team’s celebration continued roughly 120 miles north at Lambeau Field.

Brewers pitcher Brandon Woodruff brought the Commissioner’s Trophy onto the field Thursday night at the end of the first quarter. Teammates Christian Yelich and Sal Frelick also joined the celebration.

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Watson had six catches for 100 yards before leaving the game.

The Packers will face New England on Nov. 8, while the Panthers will host the Denver Broncos in Charlotte in Week 9.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Seemingly every other game in the NFL these days, there's a scary injury that requires transportation and tests at the hospital. Just in the past few weeks, Jalen Hurts' blood clots and Terry McLaurin's awful leg injury were major stories around the league.

During Thursday night's game, that injury went to Green Bay Packers star wide receiver Christian Watson. On a play that also hurt a defensive back.

Watson was in the middle of a huge night against the Carolina Panthers at Lambeau Field, racking up six catches for 100 receiving yards in the first half. His big play came when he brought in a 53-yard catch on a deep ball from Jordan Love about midway through the second quarter, setting the Packers up in great field position as they drove down for another score.

But he hit the ground hard while colliding with Panthers cornerback Will Lee III, and was slow to get up. Lee himself also had to be helped to his feet thanks to a hamstring injury, eventually needing the cart to leave the field.

TERRY MCLAURIN CARTED OFF, MIKE EVANS HURT AS 49ERS HOLD OFF COMMANDERS 23-17 ON BRUTAL MNF

But Watson's injury, at first glance, seemed more serious. The 27-year-old was transported in an ambulance to a hospital near Lambeau Field, undergoing precautionary checks for a chest injury, while Lee was deemed doubtful to return to the game himself. But that's where the story gets crazier, and so much better.

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Not long after leaving for the hospital, Watson, miraculously, returned to Lambeau Field. Quite literally driven back to the stadium in the ambulance, cameras caught him running out of the tunnel back in full pads to, unsurprisingly, a raucous reception from the home crowd.

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Seems like Watson either never got out of pads while going to the hospital, going through medical tests while in full uniform, or did an extremely fast quick change. Then he was driven back to the stadium in an ambulance, running directly from the tunnel out to the field. Less than an hour after sustaining what looked to be a scary, and painful, injury.

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And sure enough, Watson returned to the game not long afterward. Even pulling in another reception, as Love found him for a six-yard completion in Carolina territory right at the start of the fourth quarter. Incredible.

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That drive wound up in a Love interception, but the Packers still took a 27-13 lead into the middle part of the fourth quarter. And they have their star wide receiver back, somehow, after a brief detour to a local hospital. Not that most fans doubt NFL players are tough, but absolutely nobody will be questioning Christian Watson's toughness and commitment to his team anytime soon.

Less than 24 hours after the Milwaukee Brewers captured the franchise’s first World Series title, the team’s celebration continued roughly 120 miles north at Lambeau Field.

Brewers pitcher Brandon Woodruff brought the Commissioner’s Trophy onto the field Thursday night at the end of the first quarter of the Green Bay Packers’ game against the Carolina Panthers. Teammates Christian Yelich and Sal Frelick also joined the celebration.

Frelick embraced the moment by attempting a Lambeau Leap of his own, drawing a warm reaction from the Packers faithful.

BREWERS STAR CHRISTIAN YELICH PAYS TOUCHING TRIBUTE TO LATE, BELOVED BROADCASTER AFTER WORLD SERIES WIN

Milwaukee could come to a standstill Friday, with thousands of fans expected to line the streets for a victory parade celebrating the Brewers’ long-awaited championship.

Wisconsin’s largest school district, Milwaukee Public Schools, announced it would close Friday, citing operational and safety concerns. However, the closure will also give faculty and students the opportunity to enjoy the parade.

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The parade route will run through downtown Milwaukee before ending with a fan fest at Henry Maier Festival Park.

The Packers are likely hoping to build on the Brewers’ success, despite not having won or reached a Super Bowl since the 2010 season.

The Brewers’ Game 5 victory over the Tampa Bay Rays to clinch the World Series title and the Bucks' 2021 NBA Finals victory means the Packers now own the longest championship drought among Wisconsin’s major men’s professional sports teams.

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Green Bay entered Thursday night’s game coming off a Week 7 loss to the Detroit Lions. The Panthers jumped out to a 3-0 first-quarter lead. The Packers responded by taking a 20-10 halftime lead and extending the advantage to 27-10 in the third quarter.

The Milwaukee Brewers' first World Series title meant the world to their loyal fans, and would have meant the world to the late, beloved broadcaster Bob Uecker.

Uecker was the Brewers’ radio broadcaster for 54 seasons, from 1971 to 2024, and became a Brewers legend. He died at age 90 in January 2025. Brewers captain Christian Yelich was particularly close to Uecker and offered a touching tribute after the team’s World Series victory.

"He’s smiling, man. I really wish he could have been here to see this," Yelich said. "It would have meant everything to him, but like we said a bunch, he’s been with us a lot. We keep him close to our hearts."

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"This one’s still for Bob, still for Ueck. Uecky, I love you, man, and we did it."

Brewers manager Pat Murphy referenced Uecker in his postgame locker room speech before the team popped open bottles of champagne.

"So Ueck sent me a text today," Murphy said, drawing laughter from the clubhouse.

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"He said, ‘Look, I helped you against the Padres and I messed with the Dodgers a little bit and then you came here and you’re on your own because we had a doubleheader and they actually let me catch the last three innings of the game.’"

Murphy was referring to the broadcaster’s time as a player, when Uecker was a catcher in the big leagues for six seasons, from 1962 to 1967.

"But you did it for the city, you did it for the state, and you boys ought to be awfully proud to know that you’re the first ever Milwaukee Brewer team to be World Champions."

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Following Murphy’s speech, the clubhouse erupted into pandemonium as the champagne started flying.

The only thing missing from the unforgettable scene was Uecker.