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  • Former Broncos QB already lighting it up at training camp for his new team

    Former Broncos QB already lighting it up at training camp for his new team

    All around the NFL, the reclamation project quarterback is seemingly en vogue. We have seen players like Baker Mayfield, Geno Smith, Sam Darnold, and to a degree even someone like Jared Goff really break through when given second chances by new teams in better overall situations.

    It’s not a 100 percent success rate, of course, but Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton has had success rehabilitating the value of quarterbacks who were either written off or considered busts by their previous teams (or both). He did it for both Teddy Bridgewater and Jameis Winston with the New Orleans Saints, helping those guys make a ton of money elsewhere.

    Frankly, Payton also rehabbed the value of Russell Wilson after a disastrous 2022 season and that has helped Wilson land starting gigs with both the Steelers and Giants the past two years.

    One of Payton’s latest reclamation projects was former 2nd overall pick Zach Wilson. Wilson was the third QB on Denver’s depth chart last season, but was someone the team really liked and wanted to work with to help him make millions elsewhere.

    And that’s exactly what he did.

    Zach Wilson making an early impression at Dolphins training camp

    Wilson got a nice one-year deal from the Miami Dolphins to be the backup to Tua Tagovailoa, a job that has a near-100 percent certainty of landing Wilson on the field this coming season. The unfortunate reality with Tagovailoa is that he struggles to stay on the field, so not only did Wilson get a very solid $6 million from the Dolphins (with no state income tax in Florida), but he also might get the chance to show just how much his rehab stint in Denver worked out.

    Already, Wilson is launching bombs at Dolphins training camp. And while it’s egregious to think he would go to Miami and take the starting job from Tagovailoa, it’s not impossible that Wilson could dominate during the preseason and become one of the most talked-about quarterbacks in the league.

    Teams are always on the hunt for help at the quarterback position, and while Wilson has tremendous value to the Dolphins this year, his performance in the preseason this year could dictate whether or not he ends up getting a starting gig elsewhere in the league in 2026.

    Wilson has plenty of advocates out there and with the Sean Payton coaching tree expanding along with his experience under Mike McDaniel this year, he’s shaping up to be one of the more interesting free agent quarterbacks next offseason if he can keep this up.

  • Athletics: Chepng’etich, Ng’etich, Chebet seal 10,000m tickets to the World Championships

    Athletics: Chepng’etich, Ng’etich, Chebet seal 10,000m tickets to the World Championships

     

     

    From left, Beatrice Chebet, Agnes Ngétich and Janeth Chepng’etich take part in the women’s 10,000m of the Kenyan trials for the 2025 World Athletics Championships at Ulinzi Sports Complex, Nairobi, on July 22, 2025. Photo credit: Chris Omollo | Nation Media Group

    Correspondent

     

    It was a dream come true for African Games 10,000 metres champion Janeth Chepng’etich as she won the women’s 10,000m race to earn a ticket for her maiden World Athletics Championships.

     

    Chepng’etich won at the Kenyan trials at Ulinzi Sports Complex, Langata in Nairobi in 30 minutes and 27.02 seconds to qualify alongside the 5km and 10km world records holder Agnes Ng’etich and double Olympic champion Beatrice Chebet.

     

    Ng’etich finished second in 30:27.38 and Chebet third in 30:27.52.

     

     

    Chepng’etich atoned for missing out in the 5,000m selection at Prefonantaine Classic a few weeks ago that acted as Kenya’s trials with Chebet winning and Ng’etich finishing second to book their slots.

     

    “The trio sealed the places in 10,000m at the world event,” Athletics Kenya head coach Julius Kirwa confirmed.

     

    Chebet, the Olympic 10,000m and 5,000m champion and Ng’etich will now be doubling up in 10,000m and 5,000m at the World Athletics Championships scheduled for September 13 to 21 in Tokyo, Japan.

     

     

    The 2022 World Under-20 champion Reynold Kipkorir (left) wins the men’s 1,500m in a photo-finish at the Kenyan trials for the 2025 World Athletics Championships at Ulinzi Sports Complex, Nairobi on July 22, 2025. Photo credit: Photo | Nation Media Group

    Chebet, who claimed silver at the 2022 Oregon and bronze at 2023 Budapest world championships, will be making her third appearance at the global event while Ng’etich makes her second return after finishing sixth in 10,000m at 2023 Budapest.

     

    Chebet, Ng’etich, Margaret Akidor and Faith Kipyegon, who is the reigning world 5,000m champion, will team up in 5,000m in Tokyo, where Kipyegon will be eying her fourth world 1,500m crown.

     

    “Winning today has given me confidence to continue striving for the best because I had the privilege of competing with the world record holders,” said the 26-year-old Chepng’etich. “We are going back to fine-tune our training and personally, I need to work on my speed as we head to the championships,” said Chepng’etich, who trains in Keringet, Nakuru County.

     

    Ng’etich said it was her wish to make the team again after she missed out on Paris Olympic Games last year because of injury. “I am in good shape this year and if we run as a team we are going to bag medals for our country,” said Ng’etich, the 2023 world cross country bronze medallist.

     

    Chebet said her 10,000m world record last year of 28:54.14 and her 5,000m world record of 13:58.06 this year has inspired her to continue working hard as she targets her maiden world titles.

     

    “I want to replicate the Paris Olympics performance in Tokyo and make history as the first woman to hold both 10,000m and 5,000m Olympic and world titles as well as world records over the distances,” said Chebet.

     

    Vivian Cheruiyot is the last Kenyan to win the world 10,000m title during the 2015 Beijing edition. “We have strong teams in the two events and all we need is good calculations during the race and we shall be able to bring medals home,” said Chebet.

  • Nottingham Forest have ‘now’ come in for £52m Chelsea player in last 24 hours

    Nottingham Forest have ‘now’ come in for £52m Chelsea player in last 24 hours

     

    Nottingham Forest have now reportedly entered the race to sign a Chelsea player who was part of the Club World Cup squad this summer.

     

    It was a successful end to the 2024/25 season for Chelsea, winning the Club World Cup in style by thrashing Paris Saint-Germain in the final.

     

    Chelsea bosses have urged the players to stay humble after their recent success, but supporters have every right to be excited about the future of their young squad.

     

    Christopher Nkunku of Chelsea during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group D match between Chelsea FC and Los Angeles Football Club

     

    Nottingham Forest join Christopher Nkunku race

    The future of Blues attacker Christopher Nkunku, 27, is certainly an interesting talking point this summer.

     

    Chelsea staff were impressed with Nkunku’s involvement at the Club World Cup, where he played six times and scored an important goal in a knockout victory against Benfica. However, previous reports claimed that Nkunku is deemed ‘surplus to requirements’ at Stamford Bridge as they prepare to sell him.

     

     

    Journalist Simon Phillips reports via Substack that he heard from sources on Monday afternoon that Nottingham Forest have ‘now’ come in with interest in signing Nkunku.

     

    It is understood that the French forward also has interest from Newcastle United, Manchester United, Bayern Munich, RB Leipzig and other clubs around Europe. Phillips adds that the Chelsea man may prefer to remain in the Premier League, so let’s wait and see what happens in the remainder of the window.

     

     

    Nuno Espirito Santo’s Forest side includes former Chelsea youngsters Callum Hudson-Odoi and Ola Aina. If Nkunku joins them at the City Ground, it would feel like a statement addition for the Reds.

     

    Nuno Espirito Santo applauds the Nottingham Forest fans after defeat to Chelsea

     

    How much Christopher Nkunku could cost

    Nkunku, who joined Chelsea for £52m (BBC) from RB Leipzig two years ago, has struggled to hit top form at Stamford Bridge.

     

     

  • American Sprint Legends Defend Gout Gout Amid Claims He ‘Ducked’ Racing Noah Lyles, Letsile Tebogo in Monaco

    American Sprint Legends Defend Gout Gout Amid Claims He ‘Ducked’ Racing Noah Lyles, Letsile Tebogo in Monaco

     

     

    Justin Gatlin and Bernard Williams believe the 17-year-old Australian is earning his stripes the right way by avoiding to race the big fish, like Noah Lyles, this early.

    At just 17, Australian sprinting prodigy Gout Gout turned heads at the 2025 Meeting Herculis EBS in Monaco, clocking a wind-affected 20.10 seconds in the under-23 men’s 200m invitational.

     

    Despite racing outside the Diamond League program, Gout’s performance was one of the highlights of the evening — but not without controversy.

     

    While American world champion Noah Lyles and Botswana’s rising star Letsile Tebogo battled it out in the main Diamond League 200m event, Gout’s absence from that elite lineup raised eyebrows.

     

    Stay updated with the Latest Sports News in Kenya from Pulse Sports

     

    Beatrice Chebet Reveals Strategy to Claim 5,000m and 10,000m Double at World Championships

    Beatrice Chebet Reveals Strategy to Claim 5,000m and 10,000m Double at World Championships

    Some critics online suggested the young Aussie may have deliberately avoided direct competition with the world’s best — a claim flatly rejected by American sprint legends Justin Gatlin and Bernard Williams.

     

    Gatlin: You’ve Got to Earn Your Stripes

    American Sprint Legends Defend Gout Gout Amid Claims He ‘Ducked’ Racing Noah Lyles, Letsile Tebogo in Monaco

    Gout Gout & Justin Gatlin

    Speaking on the Ready Set Go podcast hosted by Rodney Green, Justin Gatlin — Olympic gold medalist and former world champion — defended Gout’s choice to compete in a developmental race.

     

    “Me and Bernard grew up in an era where we raced in B races,” said Gatlin. “And if you run fast enough in a B race — not saying this would happen — but if you run fast enough, you could end up in that A race pot. You’ve got to earn your stripes and move your way up.”

     

    Gatlin stressed that Gout’s approach isn’t about avoiding competition — it’s about smart progression.

     

    “Him being at those races and maybe not facing off against those guys just yet — that’s him earning his stripes.

     

    “That’s him saying, ‘Okay, I’ll build into it.’ What if he jumped in that race, Rod, and got fifth? First time overseas, never been to Monaco — those are all excuses.”

     

    Harambee Stars: What Next for Benni McCarthy’s Men in CHAN 2024 Preparations After CECAFA Tournament Withdrawal

    Harambee Stars: What Next for Benni McCarthy’s Men in CHAN 2024 Preparations After CECAFA Tournament Withdrawal

    Gatlin’s point: a rough debut at the top level could do more harm than good to a young sprinter’s confidence and momentum.

     

    Bernard Williams: ‘This is Development — Just Like the G-League’

    Two-time Olympic medalist Bernard Williams echoed Gatlin’s stance, offering a basketball analogy:

     

    “The B races, to me, are almost like the G-League in the NBA,” Williams said. “The G-League helps athletes develop.

     

    “Not all of them are stars yet, but it gives them a platform to showcase their skills, get footage, and build confidence.”

     

    5 Most Expensive African Players of All-Time: Where Does Bryan Mbeumo Rank?

    5 Most Expensive African Players of All-Time: Where Does Bryan Mbeumo Rank?

    Williams argued that throwing a young athlete into the fire too early could be damaging.

     

    “Let’s say he jumped in the A race and finished fifth or sixth — that could mess with your confidence. Every rookie has taken an ass whooping and thought, ‘Yo, I gotta get my stuff together.’ Even Usain Bolt went through that. Everybody’s been there.”

     

    He concluded with a message of patience:

     

    “It’s cool for development, but there’s nothing like racing when you’re confident.”

     

    Gout Gout’s performance in Monaco may not have come against the top names in the sport, but it was a statement nonetheless.

     

    With the World U20 Championships and future senior international meets on the horizon, his trajectory is being closely watched — and supported — by legends of the sport who understand what it takes to reach the top.

  • Nebraska’s Matt Rhule defends Scott Frost over comment that coaching Huskers was ‘wrong job’

    Nebraska’s Matt Rhule defends Scott Frost over comment that coaching Huskers was ‘wrong job’

     

    Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule speaks to the media during the Big Ten NCAA college football media days at Mandalay Bay Resort. Mandatory Credit: Lucas Peltier-Imagn ImagesMitch Sherman

     

    Nebraska coach Matt Rhule on Tuesday stood up for his predecessor Scott Frost, who faced criticism in the wake of his assessment earlier this month that the Huskers job was wrong for him.

     

    Speaking at Big Ten media days, Rhule said Nebraska displayed a large photo of Frost, taken during his time as a quarterback at the school, this offseason in the coaches’ area at the football facility.

     

    “I have a ton of respect for Scott,” Rhule said. “And I’ve always been very empathetic for what he went through, because this was his home. If you guys fire me tomorrow, I’m just going to go back to Cape May and sit on the beach — go back to where I’m from. But this was his home.”

     

    Frost, in the first year of his second stint as head coach at UCF, was fired by Nebraska in September 2022, finishing 16-31 in four-plus seasons. On July 8 at Big 12 media days, Frost said that he learned from his experience with the Huskers not to “take the wrong job.” In hindsight, Frost said, “it wasn’t a good move.”

     

    Rhule said he understood. And he agreed with Frost.

     

    “I know what it felt like to get run out of Carolina,” said Rhule, who was fired after two-plus seasons with the Panthers in the NFL. “And I would say to people, ‘I don’t think I took the right job for me. It wasn’t the right fit.’ That doesn’t mean it’s a bad job.”

     

    Rhule said that when he accepted Nebraska’s offer in November 2022 from Trev Alberts, the athletic director who fired Frost, “this was not a good job.”

     

    “We were behind on NIL,” he said. “The facilities, everything was behind.”

     

    Alberts convinced Rhule they could transform the conditions in Lincoln. Rhule said he recognized a strong foundation.

     

    Financial resources as a result of commitments from Lincoln’s Peed family — which founded the school’s collective, 1890 Nebraska — have improved dramatically, Rhule said. Nebraska has invested in nutrition and sports science over the past three years. It opened the $165 million Osborne Legacy Complex last year and replaced the grass and artificial turf surfaces that were outdated when Rhule took over.

     

    The Huskers won their first bowl game since 2016 at the end of last season.

     

    “We’ve made it a good job,” Rhule said. “And we’re about to make it a great job. This will be one of the best jobs in the country.”

     

    After his news conference at Big Ten media days and a 45-minute side session with reporters, Rhule told The Athletic that he made a deliberate choice to embrace Frost, rather than to remain mired negativity.

     

    “I just think the only way Nebraska can become a championship-caliber team again, in this world, is to live in positive, not toxic things,” Rhule said. “I need an investment from everyone. The only chance we have is to be united.”

     

    He said he wants Frost to know that he’s appreciated in Lincoln.

     

    “The things he did at this school, I want him to always feel like he could come back and has a home here,” Rhule said.

     

    Even if Lincoln wasn’t the right spot for Frost as a coach.

     

    “That being said,” Rhule said, “it’s the right job for me.”

     

     

     

     

  • Mark Pope emphasizes Kentucky’s backcourt depth: ‘We have so many capable op

    Mark Pope emphasizes Kentucky’s backcourt depth: ‘We have so many capable op

     

     

    2025-26 Kentucky men’s basketball players – Chet White, UK Athletics

    2025-26 Kentucky men’s basketball players – Chet White, UK Athletics

    Mark Pope doesn’t seem the slightest bit concerned about his backcourt situation going into the 2025-26 season.

     

    “I think we have a chance to have a really dynamic backcourt,” Pope told reporters Monday. “Guys that are really capable of making multiple moves to make plays in the backcourt. And I think this team has a chance to really pass the ball at an elite level.”

     

    The injury bug took multiple bites at Kentucky’s backcourt last season. Kerr Kriisa sat out for most of the season, Jaxson Robinson missed a dozen games, and Lamont Butler was in and out of the lineup during SEC play. Pope found ways to make the offense work anyway. This time around, he should even more guard options to help ease any potential injury issues.

     

    Jaland Lowe was brought in from Pitt to take over as the Wildcats’ starting point guard, and the early chatter is he’s excelled during summer practices. He brings a different flavor to Kentucky’s offense compared to Butler that should trickle down to his teammates. But Pope believes he’s not the only one who can step in as the lead guard and direct the offense.

     

    “I have a really talented backcourt. I have so many options,” Pope explained. “Otega (Oweh)‘s played some minutes at the one, Collin Chandler has played a lot of minutes at the one. Jasper Johnson‘s completely capable of playing the one. I think DA (Denzel Aberdeen) is very comfortable playing the one. We’re in a little bit of a different scenario than we felt like we were in most of the season last year. We have so many capable options.”

     

    Adding to that, last season’s Kentucky team lacked having multiple players who could create their own shots and consistently make plays. Pope doesn’t see that being the case in the 2025-26 campaign.

  • Broncos certain to beat the Eels, while Manly could shock the Bulldogs

    Broncos certain to beat the Eels, while Manly could shock the Bulldogs

     

    There are quite a few games this weekend that could be chosen as “sure thing” match-ups. The Warriors over the Titans, the Panthers over the Tigers, the Sharks over the Rabbitohs and the Raiders over the Knights all fall into the category, but without wanting to pick on the Eels again, I think the Broncos are the most certain of this weekend’s certainties.

     

    The Broncos had last week off to freshen up, after finally reassembling their first-choice starting spine. The return of Ben Hunt from injury, just adds an extra touch of class to the organisational aspect of the Broncos’ play. He brings a calm head to the team, while allowing Walters to come on fresh when the oppositions defence is tiring.

     

    The Eels keep making all the right noises for a team really putting their best effort into winning games, but they can’t seem to stretch it out over the full 80 minutes required. Mitchell Moses returns this week, which can only help, but any lapses against Brisbane on Friday night will be punished to the fullest. In a season of shock upsets, I could yet regret not going with one of the other games, but I feel that the Broncos are building nicely towards the finals and simply cannot lose this game.

     

     

     

    Ben Talty of the Broncos celebrates a try. Photo by Chris Hyde/Getty Images

    The Cowboys looked like they were in for the fight against the Dolphins last week, but just didn’t have 80 minutes of good football in them, particularly in defence. Coach Todd Payten must be at his wits’ end trying to squeeze a decent effort out his team.

     

    The Dragons did put up a good fight against the Bulldogs last week, but defensive lapses cost them dearly as well. Sitting in 11th position on the ladder, just one point ahead of the Cowboys who are in 13th place, this game is absolutely crucial to the finals aspirations of both teams.

     

    My head is telling me that the Cowboys should win this, but my heart is telling me that the Dragons are travelling just a little bit better than them at the moment. My head is saying the Townsville humidity might catch the Dragons short, my heart is saying the Cowboys haven’t been winning at home (3-5) or anywhere else much (3-6) for that matter. My head is telling me that Tom Dearden is a gun and that Kyle Flanagan is not one of those. Time to toss a coin.

     

    Toss of the coin game winner: Dragons

     

    After almost being correct last week when I suggested that the Dragons might upset the Bulldogs, I think this week’s roughie is even more likely to rattle Canterbury.

     

    These two teams have yet to meet this season, and they will play this game at Allianz Stadium to commemorate the 30th anniversary of their 1995 grand final clash. The Sea Eagles have been a bit of an enigma this year, unbeatable at their best, but just as likely to put in a stinker against any team. Last week they travelled to Melbourne and knocked over the premiership favourites.

     

    The Bulldogs moved Lachan Galvin into the halfback position last week and he looked sharper than Toby Sexton in the role. The problem is, he proved that the Bulldogs’ attacking problems are not all halfback related. They lack anything other than the most basic of backline movements. They are largely predictable and rely on either kicks or defensive mistakes to score.

     

    The Bulldogs’ greatest strength of course is their defence, which will have to be at its very best against the many weapons that the Sea Eagles will throw at them. This game could leave the Bulldogs with even more questions.

     

    Round 21 roughie: Sea Eagles

     

    Click here for a full guide to NRL Round 21.

     

    Sydney Roosters vs. Melbourne Storm

    Allianz Stadium, 7:50pm (AEST)

     

     

    Roosters: 1. James Tedesco 2. Daniel Tupou 3. Ethan King 4. Robert Toia 5. Mark Nawaqanitawase 6. Sandon Smith 7. Sam Walker 8. Naufahu Whyte 9. Connor Watson 10. Lindsay Collins 11. Angus Crichton 12. Salesi Foketi 13. Siua Wong Bench: 14. Zach Dockar-Clay 15. Blake Steep 16. Egan Butcher 17. Spencer Leniu Reserves: 18. Tom Rodwell 19. Taylor Losalu 20. Makahesi Makatoa 21. Benaiah Ioelu 22. Hugo Savala

     

    Storm: 1. Nick Meaney 2. Grant Anderson 3. Jack Howarth 4. Joe Chan 5. Xavier Coates 6. Tyran Wishart 7. Jahrome Hughes 8. Stefano Utoikamanu 9. Harry Grant 10. Josh King 11. Shawn Blore 12. Eliesa Katoa 13. Trent Loiero Bench: 14. Bronson Garlick 15. Ativalu Lisati 16. Tui Kamikamica 17. Kane Bradley Reserves: 18. Siulagi Tuimalatu-Brown 19. Josiah Pahulu 20. Jonah Pezet 21. Coby Williamson 22. Lazarus Vaalepu

     

     

    Referee: Adam Gee Touchies: Liam Kennedy, Ziggy Przeklasa-Adamski Bunker: Chris Butler

     

    Prediction: This is easily the match of the round with the desperate Roosters hosting the Storm, with both teams coming off Round 20 losses. The Roosters were battered by the Sharks, while the Storm were upset by the Sea Eagles. The Roosters really need to start winning or the finals will slip out of reach, but the Storm very rarely lose two straight.

     

     

    North Queensland Cowboys vs. St George Illawarra Dragons

    Queensland Country Bank Stadium, 6pm (AEST)

     

     

    Cowboys: 1. Scott Drinkwater 2. Robert Derby 3. Jaxon Purdue 4. Zac Laybutt 5. Braidon Burns 6. Thomas Duffy 7. Tom Dearden 8. Harrison Edwards 9. Reece Robson 10. Griffin Neame 11. John Bateman 12. Jeremiah Nanai 13. Reuben Cotter Bench: 14. Karl Lawton 15. Kaiden Lahrs 16. Kai O’Donnell 17. Coen Hess Reserves: 18. Jaxson Paulo 19. Nicholas Lenaz 20. Temple Kalepo 21. Marly Bitungane 22. Dane Aukafolau

     

     

    Dragons: 1. Clinton Gutherson 2. Tyrell Sloan 3. Moses Suli 4. Mathew Feagai 5. Corey Allan 6. Lyhkan King-Togia 7. Kyle Flanagan 8. Emre Guler 9. Damien Cook 10. David Klemmer 11. Luciano Leilua 12. Jaydn Su’A 13. Jack de Belin Bench: 14. Jacob Liddle 15. Blake Lawrie 16. Hamish Stewart 17. Michael Molo Reserves: 18. Nicholas Tsougranis 19. Ben Murdoch-Masila 20. Lachlan Ilias 21. Loko Jnr Pasifiki Tonga 22. Jacob Halangahu

     

     

    Referee: Grant Atkins Touchies: Tyson Brough, Jarrod Cole Bunker: Kasey Badger

     

    Prediction: The Cowboys had no answers for the flashy Dolphins backs last week, while the Dragons really should have beaten the Bulldogs, but let themselves down with some poor defence. Both of these teams have taken up the status of “mathematical chances” when it comes to making the finals, and a loss here could prove fatal to either of them. This could go either way, but I think the Dragons might be going a little better than the Cowboys.

     

    Tip: Dragons by 6

     

    Brisbane Broncos vs. Parramatta Eels

    Suncorp Stadium, 8pm (AEST)

     

     

    Broncos: 1. Reece Walsh 2. Josiah Karapani 3. Kotoni Staggs 4. Gehamat Shibasaki 5. Jesse Arthars 6. Ezra Mam 7. Adam Reynolds 8. Xavier Willison 9. Ben Hunt 10. Payne Haas 11. Brendan Piakura 12. Jordan Riki 13. Patrick Carrigan Bench: 14. Billy Walters 15. Kobe Hetherington 16. Corey Jensen 17. Jack Gosiewski Reserves: 18. Tyson Smoothy 19. Deine Mariner 20. Selwyn Cobbo 21. Ben Talty 22. Jaiyden Hunt

     

     

    Eels: 1. Joash Papali’i 2. Zac Lomax 3. Viliami Penisini 4. Sean Russell 5. Josh Addo-Carr 6. Dean Hawkins 7. Mitchell Moses 8. J’maine Hopgood 9. Ryley Smith 10. Junior Paulo 11. Charlie Guymer 12. Jack Williams 13. Dylan Walker Bench: 14. Tallyn Da Silva 15. Luca Moretti 16. Matt Doorey 17. Sam Tuivaiti Reserves: 18. Dan Keir 19. Jordan Samrani 20. Bailey Simonsson 21. Toni Mataele 22. Dylan Brown

     

     

    Referee: Todd Smith Touchies: Phil Henderson, Drew Oultram Bunker: Ashley Klein

     

    Prediction: The Broncos had last week off, while the Eels were good in the first half against the Raiders, before being thumped late in the contest. The Broncos have found some excellent form of late and should be way too good for the Eels, who with Mitchell Moses back at the helm might put up a fight, before eventually capitulating.

     

     

     

    New Zealand Warriors vs. Gold Coast Titans

    Go Media Stadium, 3pm (AEST)

     

     

    Warriors: 1. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad 2. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak 3. Adam Pompey 4. Kurt Capewell 5. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck 6. Chanel Harris-Tavita 7. Tanah Boyd 8. James Fisher-Harris 9. Wayde Egan 10. Jackson Ford 11. Leka Halasima 12. Marata Niukore 13. Erin Clark Bench: 14. Te Maire Martin 15. Jacob Laban 16. Demitric Vaimauga 17. Tanner Stowers-Smith Reserves: 18. Taine Tuaupiki 20. Samuel Healey 21. Bunty Afoa 22. Ali Leiataua 23. Eddie Ieremia

     

     

    Titans: 1. AJ Brimson 2. Jaylan De Groot 3. Brian Kelly 4. Jojo Fifita 5. Phillip Sami 6. Kieran Foran 7. Jayden Campbell 8. Moeaki Fotuaika 9. Sam Verrills 10. Jaimin Jolliffe 11. Chris Randall 12. Beau Fermor 13. Klese Haas Bench: 14. Jacob Alick-Wiencke 15. Reagan Campbell-Gillard 16. Iszac Fa’asumaleaui 17. Josh Patston Reserves: 18. Arama Hau 19. Sean Mullany 20. Tom Weaver 21. Ryan Foran 22. Alofiana Khan-Pereira

     

     

    Referee: Gerard Sutton Touchies: Jon Stone, Kieren Irons Bunker: Adam Gee

     

    Prediction: The Warriors were really lucky to get away with the points last week against the Knights, while the Titans should have beaten the Tigers. Titans coach Des Hasler has literally lost the locker room, with players having to be dragged out of the showers last week to hear his post-game rant. The Warriors should win this comfortably.

     

     

     

    Penrith Panthers vs. Wests Tigers

    CommBank Stadium, 5:30pm (AEST)

     

     

    Panthers: 1. Dylan Edwards 2. Thomas Jenkins 3. Izack Tago 4. Casey McLean 5. Brian To’o 6. Blaize Talagi 7. Nathan Cleary 8. Moses Leota 9. Mitch Kenny 10. Lindsay Smith 11. Luke Garner 12. Isaiah Papali’i 13. Isaah Yeo Bench: 14. Brad Schneider 15. Liam Henry 16. Luron Patea 17. Matt Eisenhuth Reserves: 18. Paul Alamoti 19. Liam Martin 20. Daine Laurie 21. Mavrik Geyer 22. Luke Sommerton

     

     

    Tigers: 1. Sunia Turuva 2. Izaac Tu’itupou 3. Taylan May 4. Starford To’a 5. Jeral Skelton 6. Jarome Luai 7. Latu Fainu 8. Terrell May 9. Apisai Koroisau 10. Alex Twal 11. Alex Seyfarth 12. Tony Sukkar 13. Adam Doueihi Bench: 14. Tristan Hope 15. Jack Bird 16. Fonua Pole 17. Sione Fainu Reserves: 18. Brent Naden 19. Charlie Murray 20. Charlie Staines 21. Luke Laulilii 22. Krystian Mapapalangi

     

     

     

    Referee: Peter Gough Touchies: Daniel Luttringer, Chris Sutton Bunker: Chris Butler

     

    Prediction: The Panthers were too good for the Rabbitohs last week, even without Nathan Cleary and Isaah Yeo. The Tigers were lucky to get away with the win against the Titans, with both teams playing some ordinary football. The Panthers should be too good for the Tigers in this.

     

     

     

    South Sydney Rabbitohs vs. Cronulla Sharks

    Central Coast Stadium, 7:45pm (AEST)

     

     

    Rabbitohs: 1. Jye Gray 2. Alex Johnston 3. Isaiah Tass 4. Tallis Duncan 5. Tyrone Munro 6. Jack Wighton 7. Lewis Dodd 8. Tevita Tatola 9. Siliva Havili 10. Sean Keppie 11. Euan Aitken 12. Jai Arrow 13. Lachlan Hubner Bench: 14. Liam Le Blanc 15. Jacob Host 16. Ryan Gray 17. Ashton Ward Reserves: 18. Thomas Fletcher 19. Shaquai Mitchell 20. Salesi Ataata 21. Bayleigh Bentley-Hape 22. Ammaron Gudgeon

     

     

    Sharks: 1. William Kennedy 2. Sione Katoa 3. Jesse Ramien 4. Siosifa Talakai 5. Ronaldo Mulitalo 6. Braydon Trindall 7. Nicho Hynes 8. Addin Fonua-Blake 9. Blayke Brailey 10. Oregon Kaufusi 11. Billy Burns 12. Teig Wilton 13. Cameron McInnes Bench: 14. Daniel Atkinson 15. Jesse Colquhoun 16. Toby Rudolf 17. Braden Hamlin-Uele Reserves: 18. Jayden Berrell 19. Chris Veaila 20. Hohepa Puru 21. Samuel Stonestreet 22. Niwhai Puru

     

     

    Referee: Belinda Sharpe Touchies: Damian Brady, Michael Wise Bunker: Ashley Klein

     

    Prediction: The Rabbitohs have been devastated by injury and had no answers to the hard-running Panthers last week. The Sharks took another step towards the finals with a hard-fought victory over the Roosters. The Sharks have a form reversal in them, but the Rabbitohs simply don’t have the cattle to compete.

     

     

     

    Canberra Raiders vs. Newcastle Knights

    GIO Stadium, 2pm (AEST)

     

     

    Raiders: 1. Kaeo Weekes 2. Jed Stuart 3. Matthew Timoko 4. Simi Sasagi 5. Xavier Savage 6. Ethan Strange 7. Jamal Fogarty 8. Josh Papali’i 9. Tom Starling 10. Joseph Tapine 11. Hudson Young 12. Zac Hosking 13. Corey Horsburgh Bench: 14. Owen Pattie 15. Noah Martin 16. Morgan Smithies 17. Ata Mariota Reserves: 18. Manaia Waitere 19. Trey Mooney 20. Joseph Roddy 21. Danny Levi 22. Ethan Sanders

     

     

    Knights: 1. Dane Gagai 2. Dominic Young 3. Fletcher Hunt 4. Bradman Best 5. Greg Marzhew 6. Jackson Hastings 7. Jack Cogger 8. Jacob Saifiti 9. Jayden Brailey 10. Leo Thompson 11. Jermaine McEwen 12. Kai Pearce-Paul 13. Phoenix Crossland Bench: 14. Tyson Gamble 15. Mathew Croker 16. Tyson Frizell 17. Jack Hetherington Reserves: 18. Thomas Cant 19. James Schiller 20. Matthew Arthur 21. Brodie Jones 22. Kyle McCarthy

     

     

    Wyatt Raymond Touchies: Matt Noyen, Phil Henderson Bunker: Grant Atkins

     

    Prediction: The Raiders started slowly against the Eels last week, before clicking into gear in the second half. The Knights were the better team for most of the game against the Warriors, but bombed way too many tries. You can expect the Knights to put up a fight against the Raiders, but it is hard to see them winning in Canberra.

     

     

     

    Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs vs. Manly Warringah Sea Eagles

    Allianz Stadium, 4:05pm (AEST)

     

     

    Bulldogs: 1. Connor Tracey 2. Jacob Kiraz 3. Bronson Xerri 4. Stephen Crichton 5. Enari Tuala 6. Matt Burton 7. Lachlan Galvin 8. Max King 9. Reed Mahoney 10. Samuel Hughes 11. Viliame Kikau 12. Jacob Preston 13. Jaeman Salmon Bench: 14. Kurt Mann 15. Harry Hayes 16. Josh Curran 17. Bailey Hayward Reserves: 19. Jethro Rinakama 20. Daniel Suluka-Fifita 21. Blake Wilson 22. Kurtis Morrin 23. Toby Sexton

     

     

    Sea Eagles: 1. Lehi Hopoate 2. Jason Saab 3. Tolutau Koula 4. Tom Trbojevic 5. Reuben Garrick 6. Luke Brooks 7. Daly Cherry-Evans 8. Matthew Lodge 9. Jazz Tevaga 10. Siosiua Taukeiaho 11. Haumole Olakau’atu 12. Ben Trbojevic 13. Jake Trbojevic Bench: 14. Jake Simpkin 15. Corey Waddell 16. Ethan Bullemor 17. Toafofoa Sipley Reserves: 18. Tommy Talau 19. Clayton Faulalo 20. Caleb Navale 21. Joey Walsh 22. Gordon Chan Kum Tong

     

    Officials

    Referee: Ashley Klein Touchies: David Munro, Drew Oultram Bunker: Chris Butler

     

    Prediction: The Bulldogs scraped home last week against the Dragons, while the Sea Eagles travelled to Melbourne and knocked over the heavily favoured Storm.

     

    Lachlan Galvin looked good at halfback, but also proved that the Bulldogs have more problems with their attack than just who is wearing the No. 7 jersey. The Sea Eagles have been hot and cold all year, but may have turned the corner against the Storm.

     

    .

  • Oblique Defeats Noah Again Julien Makes 200m History + Jamaica’s 4×100 Qualifies | London DL Recap

    Oblique Defeats Noah Again Julien Makes 200m History + Jamaica’s 4×100 Qualifies | London DL Recap

     

     

    The London leg of the Wanda Diamond League 2025 brought fireworks to the track as Jamaican athletes stole the spotlight with thrilling performances. Oblique Seville repeated his heroics over American sprint king Noah Lyles, Julien Alfred blazed her way into history with a jaw-dropping 200m performance, and Jamaica’s men’s 4x100m relay team sealed a crucial qualification for the upcoming World Championships.

     

    Once again, Oblique Seville proved he’s more than just a contender—he’s a serious challenger for global sprint supremacy. Just weeks after upsetting Noah Lyles in Monaco, Seville doubled down with another scintillating victory in London. Clocking 9.86 seconds in the men’s 100m final, Seville edged out Lyles (9.90) in a tense battle that had the sell-out crowd on its feet.

     

    This marks Seville’s second Diamond League win of the season, and his back-to-back triumphs over the reigning world champion have sparked serious discussions about who’s really the man to beat heading into the World Championships.

     

    Lyles, who has typically used the Diamond League as a fine-tuning platform ahead of major championships, was gracious in defeat but visibly frustrated. “Oblique is running great, and I’ve got to get sharper,” he said post-race. For Seville, however, the victory was more than just another win—it was confirmation. “I’m not just showing up anymore. I’m here to win titles,” he declared.

     

    If Seville’s sprint stunned the fans, Julien Alfred’s 200m performance absolutely electrified them. The Saint Lucian speedster clocked a staggering 21.71 seconds—setting a new world lead and smashing her own national record.

     

    Alfred’s curve execution and powerful finish left the field trailing by meters. Her time is now the second-fastest in Diamond League history, only behind Florence Griffith-Joyner’s all-time mark. More importantly, it signaled that the women’s 200m field at the World Championships could face a new queen.

     

    “I felt like I was flying,” Alfred said after the race. “Everything clicked today. The training, the mindset, the energy from the crowd—it was perfect.” Her performance now positions her firmly among the medal favorites and a real threat to global powerhouses like Shericka Jackson and Gabby Thomas.

     

    To cap off a brilliant day for Jamaican athletics, the men’s 4x100m relay team finally hit their stride. The quartet—comprised of Rohan Watson, Ackeem Blake, Oblique Seville, and Jelani Walker—executed crisp baton changes and crossed the line in 37.92 seconds, punching their ticket to the World Championships. The time also places them within the top three in the world for the season.

     

    After months of inconsistent handoffs and underwhelming finishes, the team looked polished and dangerous in London. “We’ve been working hard to get this right,” said anchor man Jelani Walker. “Today, we delivered. But there’s still more to come.”

     

    With Seville peaking at the right time, Julien Alfred rewriting the record books, and Jamaica’s relay squad back in business, the London Diamond League was a statement meet for Caribbean athletics. With the World Championships now just weeks away, all eyes will be on these athletes to see if they can carry this momentum onto the

    biggest stage.

     

  • LeBron James ‘had eyes’ for Mavericks before picking up Lakers option, per report

    LeBron James ‘had eyes’ for Mavericks before picking up Lakers option, per report

    LeBron James picked up his player option to remain with the Los Angeles Lakers. It represents a calculated decision that did not come without considering a move elsewhere, according to John Hollinger of The Athletic.

    In fact, “there were whispers in league circles about LeBron James having eyes for Dallas,” Hollinger reports. But the four-time NBA MVP was not willing to pass on $52.6 million with the Lakers for a non-taxpayer mid-level exception to sign.

    In Dallas, James would have reunited with Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis, while also having an opportunity to play alongside No. 1 overall pick Cooper Flagg. James expressed belief that Flagg “will be amazing” with the Mavericks.

    Earlier this month, James opted not to clear the air after declining an on-camera interview during a summer league game. ESPN reportedly asked James if he wanted to share thoughts on picking up his player option and speculation surrounding a supposed strained relationship with ownership, but he passed on the opportunity.

    Los Angeles filled its need for a center this summer with the signing of Deandre Ayton, but lost Dorian Finney-Smith to the Houston Rockets. They did re-signcenter Jaxson Hayes and landed former Sacramento Kings forward Jake LaRavia.

    Luka Doncic is also under contract and appears to be heading toward a long-term agreement. There’s the Bronny James situation, too. He is on a four-year deal that includes a team option 2027-28 season.

    “We do want to evaluate what’s best for LeBron at this stage in his life and career,” agent Rich Paul said earlier this summer. “He wants to make every season he has left count, and the Lakers understand that, are supportive and want what’s best for him.”

  • Alex Anzalone ‘disappointed’ by contract situation, wants to retire a Lion

    Alex Anzalone ‘disappointed’ by contract situation, wants to retire a Lion

    Detroit Lions linebacker Alex Anzalone expressed some frustration about his current contract situation, but still wants to retire a Lion.

    Alex Anzalone spoke for the first time since it became clear he was hoping for a new contract, as he enters the final year of his three-year deal with the Detroit Lions. It was clear the 30-year-old linebacker is a bit frustrated and confused as to why he has not been able to get a new deal done with the team.

    “I’m disappointed. I’ll just say that. I’m disappointed,” Anzalone said. Later adding, “This is a weird situation. And I didn’t — it wasn’t on my end, or my agent’s end.”

    Anzalone is set to make a $6 million salary in 2025. This offseason, several NFL linebackers saw a significant bump in pay, including Zack Baun (three years, $51 million), Fred Warner (three years, $63 million), and Nick Bolton (three years, $45 million). Anzalone made it clear he believes he’s underpaid relative to his position.

    “It’s just kind of obvious, I think. Production, play, the market,” Anzalone said.

    As of right now, Anzalone is sidelined by a hamstring injury. He wouldn’t give a timeline for his return (“no clue”), but he made the decision to show up to camp instead of holding out away from the Lions’ facility.

    “It’s all relative, right, as far as financial situations. But I’m in a situation where I thought about it and, for my own personal goals and what I want for the team, I didn’t think it was the best scenario (to not report),” Anzalone said.

    Asked if he will return to practice without a new deal, Anzalone was non-committal, but did say that there are no plans for this to drag out and jeopardize his start to the regular season.

    “I mean, I’m just taking this day-to-day right now. I mean, we’ll see. I have no clue,” Anzalone said.

    Despite his current frustrations, Anzalone said he would still love the opportunity to retire a Detroit Lion.

    “I put so much into my time here, being a four-time captain. My teammates, the city, and just living here, you can list all the reasons,” Anzalone said. “It’s just important to me. I feel like I love this place. I want that opportunity.”

    The Lions have not had much of any comments on Anzalone’s situation this offseason. When asked on Sunday, coach Dan Campbell opted to keep those conversations internal.

    “No. I mean, not that I can really talk about,” Campbell said about contractual disputes with Anzalone. “He’s here, reported, did great on the conditioning test, weight’s good and ready to go.”