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Damar Hamlin injury: NFL cardiologist offers insight into what may have happened to Bills safety, what’s next

Damar Hamlin injury: NFL cardiologist offers insight into what may have happened to Bills safety, what’s next

Bills safety Damar Hamlin suffered cardiac arrest after a tackle in Monday night’s game against the Bengals, prompting the NFL to indefinitely suspend and postpone the matchup. The 24-year-old Pittsburgh product was administered CPR and had his heartbeat restored before being transported to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center. He has been sedated and stabilized in the hospital’s intensive care unit since late Monday, the Bills announced, while listed in critical condition.

For more insight on Hamlin’s injury, potential recovery and other factors related to Monday’s traumatic incident, CBS Sports spoke with Dr. Aaron Baggish, of Mass General Brigham. A team cardiologist for the Patriots, Harvard University Athletics, U.S. Soccer and other organizations, Baggish is the director of the cardiovascular performance program at Massachusetts General Hospital Heart Center, and also serves as medical director for the Boston Marathon.

The following interview has been edited for content and clarity.

What was your initial reaction and assessment when watching the play that left Damar Hamlin injured Monday?

Dr. Baggish: When I saw what had happened, the type of collapse he had, where his body went completely limp, is the type of collapse that has a very, very high likelihood of the heart stopping. That’s a really concerning thing. The real good-news story is how promptly the medical team on the sideline was at his side performing resuscitation. That is not always the case.

How much did the quick response by the medical teams affect Hamlin’s diagnosis?

Dr. Baggish: Well, the diagnosis, which refers to the reason the cardiac arrest happened, is still unclear. But when something like this happens, the heart stops pumping blood, and one of the 100-percent certainties, if resuscitation isn’t done, is automatic death. So it was imperative they responded so quickly.

From your perspective, what are the possible causes of Hamlin’s cardiac arrest?

Dr. Baggish: There’s a long list: there are genetic and congenital abnormalities which could be at play, I know there’s been speculation about the blunt force from the tackle, but I would say that it’s really premature to make any speculation. In fact, to jump to a conclusion would be a mistake. The diagnosis of commotio cordis, for example [which refers to a fatal disruption of the heart rhythm from a blow to the chest], is what we call a diagnosis of exclusion, meaning other things have been eliminated. We would never conclude that unless other factors have been ruled out.

Are there potential causes that you deem more likely in this case?

Dr. Baggish: It would be irresponsible to attach any kind of diagnosis until we’re sure. The majority of cardiac arrests that occur in young athletes occur because of some genetic heart condition. That is independent of getting a blow to the chest. This is why, to come up with a short list is really not possible.

Generally how long does it take to diagnose the actual cause?

Dr. Baggish: The usual sequence would be to first get him stable, and I can’t comment on the timeframe without being at his bedside. But the diagnostic part of this is usually second in line.

From the outside, then, what happens next?

Dr. Baggish: I think one of the things that can start now is to watch how the resuscitation effort was conducted and to learn from that. It was an exceptionally effective resuscitation effort. And it speaks to the planning that goes into it. They rehearse for emergencies like this. They have to be ready. … With each day, the athlete’s status will be updated, and the recovery trajectory will probably depend a lot on the next 48-72 hours.

If the blow to the chest is, in fact, ruled the cause, how common is such an occurrence?

Dr. Baggish: If this ends up being commotio cordis, this is not the first time it’s happened, though it’s not been a (common) style of sudden death in football compared with ball sports like lacrosse and baseball, or hockey, a puck sport. This would not be the first time it’s happened in sports, certainly. But I want to be clear that I’m not saying that is the diagnosis at this point.

Aside from your medical profession, as a fan, what are your hopes and expectations moving forward?

Dr. Baggish: The only thing I can say I hope this does is reinforce medical teams that they need to be ready for unexpected catastrophe. I don’t anticipate and wouldn’t be the right person to suggest any policy change or additional changes in the way the sport is played. But I hope it’s not a knee-jerk reaction if that’s the case, because oftentimes it’s worse to change policies in knee-jerk fashion based on one problem. … First and foremost, of course, my hope is the young man recovers fully. And as a fan who also happens to be a doctor, I’m cognizant of the risk these athletes assume when they decide to play these sports, and I support their decisions to do so, but it’s always sad when something like this occurs.

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Georgia ends national championship drought and more headlines that topped college football in 2022

Georgia ends national championship drought and more headlines that topped college football in 2022

When you spend your life watching sports, you begin to understand exactly what each sport brings to the table.

The NBA brings a connection to the youth of today, of being consistently introduced to the next batch of above-the-rim stars as 19-year-olds take over the league.

The Tennessee Volunteers run through the "T" before the Florida Gators game at Neyland Stadium on Sept. 24, 2022, in Knoxville.

The Tennessee Volunteers run through the “T” before the Florida Gators game at Neyland Stadium on Sept. 24, 2022, in Knoxville.
(Donald Page/Getty Images)

Major League Baseball is nostalgic, reminding you of the simpler times – when “baseball was life” and the only thing that mattered was the bat, ball and the glove. 

The NFL is deeply rooted, with fandom passed on from father to child regardless of the pain it may bring. 

DEION SANDERS GETS FORMER TOP RECRUIT TO FOLLOW HIM TO COLORADO

And then there’s college football.

It’s the sport that brings us back to our best days each Saturday during the fall. When our adult lives were just getting started, our eyes wide with innocence as the world was splayed in front of us, ripe for the picking.  

You see, college football provides the deepest connection with its fans.

The 100-year-old Rose Bowl Stadium is seen in advance of the Rose Bowl Game on Dec. 20, 2022, in Pasadena, California.

The 100-year-old Rose Bowl Stadium is seen in advance of the Rose Bowl Game on Dec. 20, 2022, in Pasadena, California.
(David McNew/Getty Images)

Fans either attended the university they cheer for or they have a family or regional tie so deep that the school is part of their soul.

Since each collegiate roster gets a fresh crop of players every four years, the allegiance is not really to the players. It’s to the colors, to the college town that holds such a special spot in our souls. 

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

College football allows us to see the different parts of our beautiful country that make the United States the best darn country in the history of mankind.

From the Pacific Northwest to The Plains, down through the bayou and into the Deep South, each weekend of college football gives us a glimpse into a different culture.

Beaver Stadium on Oct. 22, 2022, in State College, Pennsylvania, before the White Out game between the Penn State Nittany Lions and the Minnesota Golden Gophers.

Beaver Stadium on Oct. 22, 2022, in State College, Pennsylvania, before the White Out game between the Penn State Nittany Lions and the Minnesota Golden Gophers.
(Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)

Each corner wonderfully American in its own way.

Each with a unique tie to college football.

So, let’s take a dive into the wonderful ride that was the 2022 college football season.

Georgia wins its first national championship since 1980 – January 2022

It was finally time for the student to defeat the teacher.

After suffering its first defeat of the season to Nick Saban and Alabama in the SEC Championship Game, Kirby Smart won the only game that mattered, defeating Alabama 33-18 in the national championship game.

NO. 1 GEORGIA WINS SEC TITLE OVER NO. 14 LSU IN DOMINANT FASHION

Former walk-on Stetson Bennett threw for 224 yards and two touchdowns, and the Bulldogs snapped a 40-year championship drought.

Georgia QB Stetson Bennett victorious after beating Alabama at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.

Georgia QB Stetson Bennett victorious after beating Alabama at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
(David E. Klutho/Sports Illustrated via Getty Images)

“How about this university? How about these fans? This is a special moment for the University of Georgia, a special moment for this team,” Smart said in his postgame interview.

It was Smart’s first win against Saban and just the second time the seven-time national champion had been defeated by a former assistant.  

Jimbo Fisher and Nick Saban trade barbs through the media – May 2022

With name, image and likeness taking over college football, it was inevitable that feelings were going to be hurt.

Texas A&M had a monster offseason, with Jimbo Fisher bringing in the top-ranked class of 2022.

CLEMSON’S DABO SWEENEY GIVES HIS UNIQUE TAKE IN NIL: ‘WE BUILT THIS PROGRAM IN GOD’S NAME, IMAGE AND LIKENESS’

The grumblings began early that A&M was “buying” its players, a rumor that Nick Saban seemed to get behind.

Nick Saban of the Crimson Tide and Jimbo Fisher of the Aggies meet before the game at Kyle Field on Oct. 9, 2021, in College Station, Texas.

Nick Saban of the Crimson Tide and Jimbo Fisher of the Aggies meet before the game at Kyle Field on Oct. 9, 2021, in College Station, Texas.
(Bob Levey/Getty Images)

At a May conference, Saban said Texas A&M “bought every player on their team.”

Fisher didn’t appreciate the accusation and called a press conference in order to refute the claim and blast Saban in the process.

“Some people think they’re God. Go dig into how God did His deal. You may find out about a guy, a lot of things you don’t want to know. We build him up to be this czar of football. Go dig into his past or anybody who’s ever coached with him. You can find out anything you want to find out what he does and how he does it,” Fisher said.

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Coach Jimbo Fisher of the Texas A and M Aggies walks off the field after the Arkansas Razorbacks game on Sept. 24, 2022, in Arlington, Texas.

Coach Jimbo Fisher of the Texas A and M Aggies walks off the field after the Arkansas Razorbacks game on Sept. 24, 2022, in Arlington, Texas.
(Tom Pennington/Getty Images)

“I don’t cheat. I don’t lie. If you did my old man slapped me across the face. Maybe someone should have slapped him (Saban),” Fisher said.

The two reportedly put the spat behind them, but it sure did make for some offseason fun. 

USC, UCLA announce departure from Pac-12 conference – July 2022

UCLA playing at Rutgers? USC taking on Penn State in Happy Valley? 

It may sound strange, but it’s time to get used to the two West Coast programs playing in the middle of the country each year. 

The Pac-12 Conference championship game between the Utah Utes and the USC Trojans on Dec. 2, 2022, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The Pac-12 Conference championship game between the Utah Utes and the USC Trojans on Dec. 2, 2022, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada.
(Jeff Speer/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

The Trojans and the Bruins announced that they will join the Big Ten in August 2024, leaving the Pac-12 to wonder what will become of West Coast football. 

Tennessee returns to prominence – October 2022

It had been nearly 16 years and six coaches since Tennessee last beat Alabama.

But on a beautiful fall day in Knoxville, the Vols finally vanquished their Nick Saban demons. 

Head coach Josh Heupel of the Tennessee Volunteers celebrates a win over the Alabama Crimson Tide at Neyland Stadium on Oct. 15, 2022, in Knoxville.

Head coach Josh Heupel of the Tennessee Volunteers celebrates a win over the Alabama Crimson Tide at Neyland Stadium on Oct. 15, 2022, in Knoxville.
(Donald Page/Getty Images)

In a game that will go down as one of the great regular season college football games of all time, No. 6 Tennessee beat No. 3 Alabama 52-49 at Neyland Stadium. 

DEION SANDERS’ SON, QUARTERBACK SHEDEUR, TRANSFERS TO COLORADO

After a wild four quarters, Tennessee kicker Chase McGrath nailed a 40-yard field goal as the clock expired and Neyland Stadium emptied onto the field. 

“This is college football at its absolute best,” Vols coach Josh Heupel said. “We were the best team on the field tonight. That’s all we can control.”

Tennessee had been 0-15 against Saban since he took over at Alabama in 2007, and the win catapulted the Vols to the No. 1 spot in the CFP rankings for the first time in program history.

Volunteers fans tear down the goal post after Tennessee defeated the Alabama Crimson Tide at Neyland Stadium on Oct. 15, 2022, in Knoxville.

Volunteers fans tear down the goal post after Tennessee defeated the Alabama Crimson Tide at Neyland Stadium on Oct. 15, 2022, in Knoxville.
(Donald Page/Getty Images)

ARCH MANNING, NEPHEW OF LEGENDARY NFL BROTHERS, OFFICIALLY SIGNS WITH TEXAS

Two weeks later, it all came crashing down in Athens as Georgia handled quarterback Hendon Hooker and Tennessee. 

Two weeks after that, South Carolina ended Tennessee’s national championship hopes by hanging 63 points on ol’ Rocky Top. 

But the verdict was already in – Tennessee is back. And college football is better for it. 

12-team playoff – December 2022

It took a few months of negotiating, but the College Football Playoff will expand to 12 teams starting in the 2024-25 season. 

The College Football Playoff Board of Managers voted to expand the playoff to 12 teams in September, with an eye on the 2026 season for the first year with the expanded field. 

JD DANIELS, ONCE HIGHLY SOUGHT-AFTER QB RECRUIT, TRANSFERS TO FOURTH SCHOOL: REPORT

CFP helmet during the College Football Playoff press conference and media roundtable on Nov. 19, 2022, at Banc of California Stadium in Los Angeles.

CFP helmet during the College Football Playoff press conference and media roundtable on Nov. 19, 2022, at Banc of California Stadium in Los Angeles.
(Jevone Moore/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

But the Rose Bowl’s decision to amend its contract for the 2024 and 2025 seasons allows the CFP to expand from four teams to 12 officially in 2024. 

There are certainly going to be those who oppose the new format, as it’s nothing more than a money grab for the schools and conferences. 

But will anyone be complaining when there are more meaningful playoff games in December? It’s doubtful. 

Prime Time in Boulder – December 2022

It was only a matter of time before an FBS school gave Deion Sanders a shot. 

After going 27-6 at FCS Jackson State, Sanders will look to revitalize the once-proud program in Boulder as he becomes the next head coach at Colorado. 

SHANNON SHARPE ROASTS DEION SANDERS OVER AMPUTATED TOES: ‘I THOUGHT YOU WAS MAGIC’

Deion Sanders, Colorado's new head football coach, takes questions in the Arrow Touchdown Club during a press conference on Dec. 4, 2022, in Boulder.

Deion Sanders, Colorado’s new head football coach, takes questions in the Arrow Touchdown Club during a press conference on Dec. 4, 2022, in Boulder.
(Helen H. Richardson/MediaNews Group/The Denver Post via Getty Images)

The Colorado program has fallen on hard times, firing head coach Karl Dorrell after an 0-5 start to the season. The Buffs ended their 2022 campaign 1-8 in the Pac-12 and were blown out by Utah in their final game, 63-21. 

Sanders’ arrival in Boulder has already brought energy to the program, with Prime Time getting two 2023 ESPN 300 recruits and the commitment of his son, quarterback Shedeur Sanders. 

Mike Leach – December 2022

The college football world was devastated on Dec. 12 when it learned that Mississippi State head coach Mike Leach died of complications from a heart condition. 

Leach, known affectionately as “The Pirate,” was one of college football’s most eccentric personalities. 

Head coach Mike Leach of the Mississippi State Bulldogs watches his players warm up before playing the Aggies at Kyle Field on Oct. 2, 2021, in College Station, Texas.

Head coach Mike Leach of the Mississippi State Bulldogs watches his players warm up before playing the Aggies at Kyle Field on Oct. 2, 2021, in College Station, Texas.
(Bob Levey/Getty Images)

Leach spent 21 years as a head coach, with stops at Texas Tech and Washington State before becoming the head coach in Starkville in 2020. 

MIKE LEACH, LONGTIME COLLEGE FOOTBALL COACH, DEAD AT 61

He went 158-107 in his 21 seasons, going 8-9 in bowl games. 

Well known for the “Air Raid” offense, Leach has an impressive coaching tree, with Arizona Cardinals’ Kliff Kingsbury, USC head coach Lincoln Riley, TCU’s Sonny Dykes, Tennessee’s Josh Heupel, and Houston’s Dana Holgorsen all coaching under Leach. 

“There’s a ball game going on right now in heaven,” former Oklahoma head coach Bob Stoops said at Leach’s memorial. “And can’t you just see Mike? It’s 4th & 2, he’s on his own 40, and you know he’s going for it.”

2022 College Football Playoff

No. 1 Georgia was matched up against No. 4 Ohio State, while No. 2 Michigan went up against No. 3 TCU – the newcomer to the CFP – on New Year’s Eve. 

REGGIE BUSH RIPS OUTGOING OUTGOING NCAA PRESIDENT MARK EMMERT OVER HEISMAN TROPHY ISSUE

The Bulldogs got the opportunity to become the first to win back-to-back national championships since Alabama did it in 2011-12. 

It’s been a wild ride in college football since January 2021, and it isn’t close to being over. 

Enjoy bowl season. There’s nothing better than being a college football fan. 

Joe Morgan is a Sports Reporter for Fox News.

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Michigan vs. TCU live score, updates, highlights from 2022 College Football Playoff semifinal

Michigan vs. TCU live score, updates, highlights from 2022 College Football Playoff semifinal

College football’s preeminent competition will kick off under the most ideal of conditions. No. 2 Michigan will take on No. 3 TCU in the 2022 Fiesta Bowl inside comfy State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Ariz.

The game is the first semifinal in this year’s College Football Playoff, and it carries some intrigue. On the line is a berth in the national championship game — a contest neither school has been able to reach since a title game was instituted.

MORE: Sporting News Coach of the Year: TCU’s Sonny Dykes spearheads quick turnaround

The Wolverines (13-0) have been a buzzsaw this season, going through opponents week by week. That includes their 22-point beatdown of archrival Ohio State in The Game.

The Horned Frogs (12-1) have strung together one of the finest years in program history. Quarterback Max Duggan was the Heisman runner-up after a 30-touchdown, four-interception season. It’s hard to imagine that he has faced a front seven as daunting as Michigan’s, though.

The Sporting News is tracking live updates and highlights from Michigan vs. TCU in the College Football Playoff semifinals. Follow below to keep up with the action as the Fiesta Bowl takes place in Glendale.

MORE: Watch the College Football Playoff live with fuboTV (free trial)

Michigan vs. TCU score

  1  2 3 4 F 
Michigan 0 6 3 – –
TCU 14 7 14 – –

Michigan vs. TCU live score, updates from College Football Playoff semifinal

(All times Eastern)

6:50 p.m.: TOUCHDOWN! You get a score, you get a score! McCarthy finds pay dirt with a 20 yard scamper.

The scoring seems like it’s at an untenable pace. Then again, you never know with college football.

Two point conversion goes awry. Still, things are getting spicy at the Fiesta Bowl.

TCU 34, Michigan 22

6:40 p.m.: TOUCHDOWN! What a performance by Dee Winters! The cornerback adds to his growing legacy with yet another pick six against McCarthy, the Horned Frogs second score on a McCarthy miscue.

TCU 34, Michigan 16

6:35 p.m.: TOUCHDOWN! TCU gets it back in blood! Demercado caps off a seven-play, 75 yard drive with a one yard score to push the Horned Frogs lead that much further.

Demercedero’s TD was nice, but the pivotal play of the drive was its first. Duggan hit Johnston with a 46-yard dot to put TCU in position to bag yet another score on the first play from kickoff.

TCU 28, Michigan 16

6:30 p.m.: TOUCHDOWN! Another bit of trickery for the Wolverines. This one works out, though, with McCarthy hitting Bell on the flea flicker to finally get the Wolverines into the end zone.

TCU 21, Michigan 16

6:28 p.m.: INTERCEPTION! The Wolverines notch a huge turnover, snagging a pick after the ball ricochets off a receiver’s chest. Time to make it count.

6:18 p.m.: FIELD GOAL! Moody hits the chip shot, his third kick of the day.

TCU 21, Michigan 9

6:17 p.m.: Another red zone trip, another field goal attempt. The Horned Frogs defense is balling.

6:15 p.m.: McCarthy hits Ronnie Bell with a 43-yard dime, bringing the Wolverines into the red zone for the third time today. Let’s see if they can finally punch it in.

6:09 p.m.: Duggan opens the third with a gaudy QB draw, grabbing 14 yards in the process.

5:45 p.m.: FIELD GOAL! Moody boots it in from 59 yards out, cutting TCU’s lead to 15. Impressive kick by the former Lou Groza Award winner.

TCU 21, Michigan 6

5:43 p.m.: A defensive pass interference gives the Wolverines a chance at kicking the field goal before halftime. Gotta make it count.

5:40 p.m.: Dylan Horton forces the ball loose after sacking McCarthy. However, it spins harmlessly out of bounds.

Not looking great for the Wolverines with a little over 20 seconds left.

5:38 p.m.: Big sack will give the Wolverines a chance to cut into TCU’s lead before the end of the half.

5:35 p.m.: Emari Demercadero, who came in for the ailing Miller, combines for 23 yards on two carries to kick off TCU’s latest drive.

Could get worse for Big Blue here.

5:30 p.m.: Johnny Hodges and company putting Michigan’s offensive line on notice. Wonderful display by the Navy transfer, who played a pivotal role in shutting down the Wolverines’ last drive.

Ball headed back to TCU.

5:27 p.m.: Michigan has to get something going quickly. Four minutes left in the quarter and the Wolverines are in desperate need of a touchdown, especially given the fact that they’re set to kick the ball back off to TCU.

5:22 p.m.: TOUCHDOWN! Duggan rolls out to the right, biding his time before slipping a pass to Taye Barber. The senior does the rest, waltzing in from six yards out to add to TCU’s lead.

TCU 21, Michigan 3

5:20 p.m.: TCU really finding its rhythm on this drive. First, Duggan lofts a pass to a wide open Quentin Johnston for 32 yards. Then, Miller nabs a first with a furious run through the tackle. First and goal loading for the Horned Frogs.

5:18 p.m.: Although Duggan’s passing hasn’t quite been up to snuff, he has shown off his wheels. Another huge gain via the ground for Duggan, who is already up to six carries for 33 yards so far.

5:15 p.m.: It has been a rough passing day for both hurlers so far. Duggan is 4/10 with an interception. McCarthy hasn’t been much better, tossing a pick while completing just six of his 10 attempts so far.

If fans wanted an battle of high-powered offenses, it seems you might have come to the wrong place.

5:10 p.m.: For all of Michigan’s struggles on the offensive side of the ball, its defense is keeping things tight. Gets TCU off the field with a four-play stop. Doesn’t get much better than that.

5:03 p.m.: FUMBLE! Kalel Mullings muffs the handoff! The ball is headed back to the Horned Frogs. What a turn of events!

5:01 p.m.: McCarthy airs it out, finding Roman Wilson for 50 yards! U-Mich is at TCU’s one-yard line!

4:59 p.m.: INTERCEPTION! Duggan sees his throw slip through his target’s hands, falling into the grateful mitts of Michigan safety Rod Moore. Huge break for the Wolverines defense.

4:56 p.m.: FIELD GOAL! Jake Moody splits the uprights from 42 yards out, giving Michigan its first points of the ballgame.

TCU 14, Michigan 3

4:55 p.m.: Conservative play call by Harbaugh fails to make a dent, as the Wolverines are stuffed on a third-down run play. Field goal unit is trotting on the field.

End of first quarter: TCU 14, Michigan

4:51 p.m.: Once more, with feeling.The McCarthy-Loveland connection nets 16 yards for the Wolverines, who once more find themselves deep in Horned Frogs territory.

4:49 p.m.: McCarthy fires a ball past outreached arms to reach his wideout for the first. Showing signs of life.

4:48 p.m.: AJ Henning stuffed well behind the line of scrimmage. Really good start by the Horned Frogs’ defense.

4:44 p.m.: TOUCHDOWN! Duggan bungles it in from short distance, extending TCU’s lead to 14.

TCU 14, Michigan 0

4:42 p.m.: Duggan stuffed at the line of scrimmage. However, looks like forward progress granted him the advantage. A new set of downs on the goal-line for the Horned Frogs.

4:40 p.m.: Giving Duggan time in the pocket is a dangerous strategy. The Heisman runner-up finds time and space before firing a dart to Jordan Hudson on the sideline.

4:39 p.m.: Great presence of mind by Duggan, who took advantage of the free play to move the chains for the first down on the ground.

4:35 p.m.: Kendre Miller breaks open a 14-yard gain to open the drive for TCU.

4:35 p.m.: The Horned Frogs defense has come to play early. Stunts another Wolverines drive en route to a three-and-out. 

4:28 p.m.: TOUCHDOWN! McCarthy fails to see Bud Clark lurking behind his wideout. Clark snaps up the errant throw before taking it to the house to open the scoring in this year’s Fiesta Bowl.

That’s only McCarthy’s fourth-ever interception.

TCU 7, Michigan 0

4:24 p.m.: Wolverines defense holds strong, forcing a three-and-out from Duggan and company. A shorter-than-ideal punt will put Big Blue in decent starting position for its second possession.

4:21 p.m.: TURNOVER ON DOWNS! The Horned Frogs snuff out the lateral play, pinning Colston Loveland behind the line of scrimmage to deny the Wolverines a score. Impressive stuff by the TCU front seven.

4:17 p.m.: McCarthy with a wonderful effort, evading pressure before rumbling towards the end zone. He got pushed out just short of the goal-line, presenting Jim Harbaugh with a decision to make on fourth down.

4:15 p.m.: JJ McCarthy completes his first pass of the day, finding wideout Roman Wilson for a nine-yard gain. That puts Michigan in a goal-to-go situation.

4:13 p.m.: The first play from scrimmage is a big one! Donovan Edwards races through the TCU front seven for 54 yards, brining the Wolverines on the brink of the end zone. That’s one way to make an opening impression.

4:11 p.m.: The opening kickoff lands in the end zone for a touchback. Michigan will start with the ball.

3:59 p.m.: Boyz II Men singing the national anthem. Didn’t have that on my bingo card.

3:30 p.m.: Cool gesture here by Fiesta Bowl organizers, who hosted virtual fans from both Phoenix and Michigan Children’s Hospitals for Saturday’s game.

3:15 p.m.: Slide to the left, slide to the right…

3:00 p.m.: Ambitious prediction by this TCU fan. One way or another, this take is sure to get some attention.

2:40 p.m. — Tre’Vius Hodges-Tomlinson is making the rounds pregame

2:30 p.m.: …And here comes the Horned Frogs!

1:25 p.m.: The Wolverines are in the building … 

11:45 a.m.: Hours before game time, the hype videos are teed up. Time to get the blood pumping: 

Michigan vs. TCU start time

  • Kickoff: 4 p.m. ET (1 p.m. PT)

Kickoff for Michigan vs. TCU is scheduled for 4 p.m. ET on Saturday, Dec. 31. It is the first of the two Playoff games, with the Peach Bowl between No. 1 Georgia and No. 4 Ohio State kicking off at 8 p.m. ET.

What channel is Michigan vs. TCU on today?

  • TV network (national): ESPN

Michigan vs. TCU will be broadcast nationally on ESPN. Sean McDonough (play-by-play) and Todd Blackedge (color commentator) will call the game in the booth, while Molly McGrath and Tiffany Blackmon will report from the sidelines.

ESPN is also rolling out its Megacast for the College Football Playoff, once again providing alternate broadcasts across its family of networks.

Telecast  TV channel 
Field Pass with The Pat McAfee Show ESPN2
Command Center ESPNU
Skycast ESPN News
Spanish-language ESPN Deportes

How to live stream College Football Playoff games 

  • Live streams: ESPN App, fuboTV

Both College Football Playoff semifinals will be available to stream live on all of the network’s digital platforms, including ESPN.com and the ESPN App. 

Cord-cutters have several live streaming options, including fuboTV, which offers a free trial:

Streaming option  Cable subscription needed?  Free?  Cost  Free trial? 
ESPN.com/ESPN App Yes Yes – –
Yahoo! Sports App No Yes – –
fuboTV  No No $60/month Yes
AT&T TV Now No No $55/month Yes
Hulu Plus Live TV No No $55/month Yes
Sling TV No No $35/month No
YouTube TV No No $65/month Yes

College Football Playoff schedule

Date Bowl Matchup Time (ET) TV
Dec. 31 Fiesta Bowl (CFP semifinal) No. 2 Michigan vs. No. 3 TCU 4 p.m. ESPN, fuboTV 
Dec. 31 Sugar Bowl (CFP semifinal) No. 1 Georgia vs. No. 4 Ohio State 8 p.m. ESPN, fuboTV 
Jan. 9 CFP National Championship Game TBD vs. TBD 8 p.m. ESPN, fuboTV

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The alternative 2022 sports awards: quotes, gaffes and animal cameos | Sport

The alternative 2022 sports awards: quotes, gaffes and animal cameos | Sport

Quote of the year

Phil Mickelson, February, on the Saudi LIV golf breakaway. “They’re scary motherfuckers to get involved with. They killed Khashoggi and have a horrible record on human rights. They execute people over there for being gay. Knowing all of this, why would I even consider it? Because this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to reshape how the PGA Tour operates.”

Runner-up

Eddie Howe, March, asked about the 81 people killed in one day by Newcastle’s new owners. “I’m just going to answer questions about football. I’m still bitterly disappointed about the defeat.”

Politics awards: MP of the year

Nadine Dorries – ex-secretary of state for sport and essence of 2022. Dorries promised voters tennis pitches in April, forgot Glasgow 2014 had happened in July and reminisced about the wrong sport at a Rugby League World Cup launch in June: “My long-standing memory is that 2003 drop goal. Wow, what a moment that was.” She resigned in September, eyeing a peerage.

  • Also cutting through in 2022: a) Brendan Clarke-Smith, Tory MP for Bassetlaw, telling England players on the eve of the first tournament since they faced racist death threats to “cut out the kneeling nonsense and the rest of the selective virtue signalling”. And b) Rishi Sunak, tweeting 13 days after Qatari officials confiscated rainbow bucket hats off Wales fans’ heads: “Hats off to Qatar for hosting an incredible World Cup so far.”

Politics fan of the year

Derek Chisora, wearing a Boris Johnson mask in July at a weigh-in to support the fallen PM. “I was a big fan of Boris. I’m a big Brexit fan. I love the Brexit. I was one of the members of Brexit. I’m all about things that bring pressure to life.” In July Chisora was asked by the Times for his dream dinner party guests and chose Jesus, Hitler, and “Julius Caesar, the Roman empire guy”.

Derek Chisora wears a Boris Johnson mask at a weigh-in for his fight in July 2022.
Derek Chisora: ‘All about things that bring pressure to life.’ Photograph: Andrew Couldridge/Action Images/Reuters

Among the early highlights from the high court in May, reported live by the Guardian’s @jimwaterson.

  • “Rooney’s lawyer claims WhatsApp messages that would show the leaking of stories to the Sun are on a phone dropped off the side of a boat. He says it is now ‘lying at the bottom of sea in Davy Jones’ locker’. Vardy asks the court: ‘Who is Davy Jones?’ The judge intervenes.”

  • Plus: “David Sherborne, acting for Rooney: ‘What does FFS stand for?’ Vardy: ‘Can I?’ Judge: ‘Yes.’ Vardy: ‘For fuck’s sake.’ Sherborne confirms he just wanted to check he understood. This is day one of a seven day trial.”

Arab gay disabled migrant woman of the year

Gianni Infantino, Fifa president, who ended November’s 57-minute “Today I feel gay” routine with arms outstretched comparing himself to Jesus. “Crucify me, I’m here for that.”

Among the Fifa head’s other big moments in another solid year of football administration:

  • Telling a global capitalism conference in LA in May why Qatar’s migrant workers caught up in modern slavery and abuse should, on balance, just be more grateful. “When you give work to somebody, even in hard conditions, you give dignity and pride. It’s not charity. You don’t make charity.”

  • Telling the Council of Europe in January how his lucrative plan for an expanded World Cup every two years was actually motivated by stopping African migrants finding “death in the sea … We need to give hope to Africans so that they don’t need to cross the sea to find maybe a better life.” After feedback Infantino said his remarks had “been taken out of context … It was just a general comment.”

  • And refusing to take action against Russia after the Ukraine invasion until public opinion became too hot – U-turning 24 hours later. Asked if he’d hand back the friendship medal Vladimir Putin awarded him in 2019, Infantino told media: “It’s not about individuals.”

Straightest faces of the year

Belonged to delegates at the International Anti-Corruption Excellence Awards – hosted in Doha in December by Qatar’s Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani. The awards featured a new category for 2022: “Safeguarding Sports from Corruption”, with Infantino presenting the prize. Sheikh Tamin told delegates that corruption was “the scourge that harms the public interest”.

Plus: bravest insight

David Beckham, August, on the real Qatar: “Qatar really is an incredible place to spend a few days on a stopover. The modern and traditional fuse to create something really special. It’s one of the best spice markets that I’ve ever been to. This will go down as one of my favourite mornings. This is perfection.”

Peacemaker of the year

Novak Djokovic’s dad, Srdjan – mediating in last January’s row between his unvaccinated son and Australian immigration. Srdjan told the press: “Tonight they can throw him in a dungeon, tomorrow they can put him in chains. Novak is the Spartacus of the new world which won’t tolerate injustice, colonialism and hypocrisy.” His broader point, when he’d calmed down: “Jesus was crucified and everything was done to him, and he endured, he is still alive among us. They crucify Novak the same way.”

On the Djokovic row: lockdown sceptic @Nigel_Farage – leaving his Twitter followers feeling uneasy after attacking Australia using its immigration system to control its borders. Farage said Australia’s use of “arbitrary power” to deport an eastern European was “nasty … it really is a banana republic.”

And the best clarification

As the row got out of hand: Novak Djokovic, February, BBC: “I’m not anti-vax, but will sacrifice trophies if told to get jab.”

Best truth seeker

Was Matt Le Tissier, exposing how the same people who faked Covid and covered up Hunter Biden’s laptop also faked atrocities in Ukraine using “crisis actors”. He clarified later: “I do not advocate war in any shape or form,” then stepped down as a Southampton ambassador to focus on “the work I believe in”.

Most consistent performers

Russia – barred in name at February’s Winter Olympics due to state-sponsored doping, but still managing to register the Games’ first doping scandal. Journalists who revealed the story about skater Kamila Valieva received death threats while Vladimir Putin hit out at the smears. “Through her work Kamila has raised sport to the level of true art.”

Apology of the year

F1’s Bernie Ecclestone, feeling put out in June by the backlash after telling Good Morning Britain: “I’d take a bullet for Putin, because he’s a first-class person.” Nine days later: “I’m sorry if anything I said has upset anybody.”

Breakthrough sport of the year

Finally cutting through to the news pages in 2022: “Chess grandmaster accused of anal bead tactic ‘cheated over 100 times’” (Metro, October); “Cheat row erupts at World Conker Championships – but it’s not like anal-bead chess plot” (Daily Star). Plus, not bead-related: “Chess robot grabs and breaks finger of seven-year-old opponent” (Guardian, July).

Rethink of the year

Came in August after Southend signed a stand-naming deal with estate agents Gilbert & Rose, making it “the Gilbert & Rose West Stand”. Chairman Ron Martin: “It’s unfortunate and really disappointing … I suspect that the people in our commercial department were not born at the time of that tragedy so I guess that’s why that’s happened. We’re changing it to ‘the West Stand sponsored by Gilbert And Rose’.”

Second biggest tractor scandal of the year

Two months after MP Neil Parish resigned in April’s surprise parliamentary tractor porn scandal, three teens joy-rode a tractor in circles on Plymouth’s Home Park pitch. Police arrested “three boys under of the age of 16”; Plymouth: “Any true fan would not engage in such mindless destruction.”

Product launch of the year

Was John Terry’s “Ape Kids” non-fungible token business. Terry pushed the opportunity in January for fans to buy cartoons of footballers looking like apes by tweeting a cartoon of Brazil winger Willian as an ape. Twitter racism watchdog @racismdog took a view; the NFT fell 99{515baef3fee8ea94d67a98a2b336e0215adf67d225b0e21a4f5c9b13e8fbd502} in value by June.

Diplomat of the year

New Zealand doubles player Michael Venus, asked about opponent Nick Kyrgios’s Australian Open display in January. “There will always be his supporters and he’ll always spin it in a way that helps him. But at the end of the day, he’s just an absolute knob.”

Most unexpected injuries

Hurting most in 2022: a) Finnish cross-country skier Remi Lindholm suffered a frozen penis in 50km race in February: “It was one of the worst competitions I’ve been in.” And b) Eritrea’s Biniam Girmay celebrated his first stage win at the Giro d’Italia in May by firing a champagne cork into his eye causing a hemorrhage, putting him out of the rest of the tour. Girmay called it “a bad moment” but “still, I’m happy. See you soon.”

Plus: most lacking in empathy

These commentators, for a full two minutes.

Setback of the year

Came for marathon runner Eric Kiptanui, forced to sit out the Commonwealth Games men’s race after Kenyan officials entered the wrong Eric for the event. Eric Kiplagat Sang, a non-marathon runner, wasn’t in Birmingham at the time. Kiptanui: “This is painful, it’s simply bad. People must take their work seriously.”

Also cutting corners in 2022:

  • Autumn Nations Series organisers mistakenly using an outline of the US state of Georgia to represent the European country on official merchandise. “The design error was quickly identified.”

  • Great Scottish Run organisers apologising after Eilish McColgan’s 10,000m British record was invalidated when the course was found to be 150m short – a repeat of an error made in 2016 which annulled a record set by Callum Hawkins. McColgan: “Human errors happen. I’ve no bad words to say.”

Best improvisation

Chesham Utd’s PA man – doing his best as the club improvised to pay tribute to Her Majesty in September.

At #FACup tonight Chesham Utd only had a recording of National Anthem with ‘Queen’ in it, so the tannoy announcer decided to do his own version to ensure ‘King’ was sung. Well that worked out perfectly! 🤣 pic.twitter.com/qySkIg6sEV

— FA Cup Factfile / Phil Annets (@FACupFactfile) September 16, 2022

Ending the hire-and-fire culture at their clubs in 2022:

  • Watford CEO Scott Duxbury in June, drawing a line under their past record to focus on stability: “In Rob Edwards we’ve appointed a manager we all totally believe in, a manager who can lead and drive that culture change. We will support him – come hell or high water.” 26 Sep: Sacks him.

  • Genoa president Alberto Zangrillo, pledging no more of the whim-based sackings which had been a trademark of his predecessor Enrico Preziosi. 24 Dec 2021: “When we hired Andriy Shevchenko we didn’t do it because he was someone’s pal or for some other daft reason, we did it with deep thought. He’s a Ballon d’Or winner, he’s rigorous, he’s serious, he’s made a big life decision to leave a stimulating city to come to us. The people love Andriy. We back Andriy. I love Andriy.” 15 Jan 2022: He sacks Andriy.

Plus: most all-in

Michael Beale, 20 Oct, snubbing Wolves to stay at QPR: “Integrity and loyalty are big things for me, and if they are the values you live by you have to be strong. I’ve been all-in here and I’ve asked other people to be all-in, so I can’t be the first person to run away from the ship.” 28 Nov: Joins Rangers.

And best use of literally

“It was quite literally the siren call from the mermaid as the sailor passes by on his ship. They got the right mermaid going past the right ship.” Roy Hodgson, February, taking the Watford job.

Reverse sweep of the year…

Was this, from East Dean Tigers.

… and double blow of the year

49 seconds of elite village cricket action, given a re-run in July.

As the cricket season returns, it’s only right to post the greatest village video of all-time…

There’s so much going on here 😂 pic.twitter.com/X4Z7FTpwZP

— That’s So Village (@ThatsSoVillage) April 13, 2022

Worst slip

MCC chair Bruce Carnegie-Brown – picked up on microphone at the Lord’s AGM in May complaining that members were slow returning from a comfort break because “it’s taking them ages to empty their colostomy luggage”. The MCC said the remark “does not reflect the club’s views”.

Best gridwalk moment

Came in May: Martin Brundle chasing down basketball prospect Paolo Banchero on the Miami grid shouting “Patrick” at him. Brundle, who thought it was NFL quarterback Patrick Mahomes, was told as the interview unfolded. “So … what is your name sir? I thought I was talking to somebody else.”

Learning experiences of the year

Among 2022’s rookie errors:

  • The Mirror, August: “Athlete comes last in 400m race after penis falls out of shorts”. Alberto Nonino said his decision to “run without pants” at the World Athletics Under-20 Championships in Colombia was “a mistake … I’m thankful to my friends and family for helping me get over it.”

  • And the BBC blaming a trainee-related “technical glitch with our test ticker rolling over to live programming” after the breaking news scroll announced in May: “Manchester United are rubbish.”

Best final day

South Africa’s fourth-tier promotion race in May, featuring two games ending 33-1 and 59-1. Investigators later banned all four clubs, saying suspicions were initially aroused by the 41 own goals and because “when these teams had previously met in March, the scorelines were considerably more sober”.

  • Also raising eyebrows: two games in Sierra Leone’s second tier ending 95-0 and 91-1 – having been 2-0 and 7-1 at half-time. The FA president, Thomas Daddy Brima, called it “an embarrassing situation”.

Among the year’s online missteps:

  • February: Uefa, sponsored by Gazprom, failing to unschedule a timed tweet announcing ‘HAPPY THURSDAY EVERYONE!’ on the day Russia invaded Ukraine.

  • New Zealand Rugby’s official Twitter account celebrating International Women’s Day in March without mentioning their world champion women’s team. @AllBlacks: “Forever grateful to all the women in our lives that allow us to play the game we love. Partners, mothers, daughters, doctors, physios, referees, administrators and fans. Appreciate you every day.” The tweet featured a photo of All Blacks winger Sevu Reece, fined in 2018 for assaulting his girlfriend.

  • The Chicago Bears tweeting a Happy #StPatricksDay image in March in which they Photoshopped the usual green dye in the Chicago River into Bears orange. They deleted it inside an hour after feedback.

  • And @Lord_Sugar, tweeting during the Women’s Euros in July [all sic]: “I am watching the women football and notice that ALL the comentators are women. I also note when mens football is on there is a symobilic female commentator to cover the broadcasters arse. Should I complain there should me a male commentator in women’s football?” #Symobilic trended.

Best live tweeting

Among the year’s most engaged-with live match updates:

Plus: most in-tune with events

Kettering’s @KTFCOfficial, January: “We agree and understand that there have been rumours that we lost last night’s match. We, of course, could have done things differently, but would advise people to await the outcome of Sue Gray’s inquiry before jumping to any conclusions.”

Top attention seekers

Headlining 12 months of animal cameos:

Principled stand of the year

Came from West Ham, “unreservedly” condemning Kurt Zouma for kicking his cat, then starting him a day later. David Moyes said Zouma started the game “because he is one of our better players … And I stand by that.”

Best pet rescuer

Wigan’s Jason Kerr, earning praise in February for carrying an on-pitch cat to safety then appearing to wave it goodbye. It emerged the cat, Topsey, had been missing for seven months; fans crowdfunded the vet bill. See also: Clitheroe manager Billy Priestley untangling a sheep by the M6.

Best slow-mo

Jill Scott earning her place in the jungle in July. “She swore at me first but the camera was the other way. I do apologise. I actually hate swearing.”

Most intense highlights package

Whitehawk v Three Bridges in January. The Whitehawk website reported: “When people look back on this it will be to the surprise of many that the venue was not the Western Front, and the year was not 1916.”

Goal of the year

Marcin Oleksy for the Warta Poznan amputee team against Stal Rzeszow, November.

Marcin Oleksy scores amazing goal for Warta Poznan amputee football team – video

Best moves

Morocco’s Sofiane Boufal dancing with his mum; Lionesses on the desk at their press conference in July, and eight-year-old Tess going viral during Sweet Caroline. She was later gifted an Alessia Russo shirt live on air.

Award for making the most of your big moment

And retweet of the year

Helping lift spirits during last winter’s Covid peak was this old commercial blooper reel – retweeted in January, going viral one more time.

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Sports’ most famous couples stole the spotlight in 2022

Sports’ most famous couples stole the spotlight in 2022

With 2022 winding down, some of sports’ famous couples had their moment in the sun throughout the year.

There were plenty of marriages, new children, cool moments and scandals across the sports spectrum.

Read below for some of the most interesting moments.

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Novak & Jelena Djokvic

Novak Djokovic celebrates with his wife Jelena after winning the men's singles final match against Nick Kyrgios at Wimbledon Tennis Championship in London on July 10, 2022.

Novak Djokovic celebrates with his wife Jelena after winning the men’s singles final match against Nick Kyrgios at Wimbledon Tennis Championship in London on July 10, 2022.
(Li Ying/Xinhua via Getty Images)

Novak Djokovic caused a stir at the beginning of the year when he was trying to play the Australian Open. However, the Australian government’s strict coronavirus vaccine policies would bar Djokovic from competing. Djokovic reportedly had an exemption but it was struck down right before the tournament started. He missed the tournament and would later miss the U.S. Open due to New York City’s policies.

Djokovic’s wife, Jelena, was right by his side throughout the entire ordeal. She backed her husband while he was about to get deported from Australia and then again came to his defense as he was kept off the court at Flushing Meadows. 

—

Dustin Johnson & Paulina Gretzky

Dustin Johnson celebrates with wife, Paulina Gretzky, after winning the LIV Golf Invitational - Boston at The Oaks golf course at The International on Sept. 4, 2022, in Bolton, Massachusetts.

Dustin Johnson celebrates with wife, Paulina Gretzky, after winning the LIV Golf Invitational – Boston at The Oaks golf course at The International on Sept. 4, 2022, in Bolton, Massachusetts.
(Charles Laberge/LIV Golf via Getty Images)

Dustin Johnson and Paulina Gretzky are one of the biggest power couples in sports. Johnson is a two-time major winner who made news when he spurned the PGA Tour for LIV Golf. Gretzky is the daughter of NHL legend Wayne Gretzky. They were engaged to be married in 2013.

In 2022, the two finally took the leap and married in April. Johnson went on to have a pretty big year with Gretzky by his side. He earned $35 million in his move to LIV Golf and led his team to a title.

—

Matthew & Kelly Stafford

Matthew Stafford of the Los Angeles Rams celebrates with his wife Kelly Stafford during Super Bowl LVI at SoFi Stadium on Feb. 13, 2022 in Inglewood, California.

Matthew Stafford of the Los Angeles Rams celebrates with his wife Kelly Stafford during Super Bowl LVI at SoFi Stadium on Feb. 13, 2022 in Inglewood, California.
(Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

Matthew Stafford had a great year despite all the trepidation he and his wife, Kelly, had about taking on a new challenge during the 2021 NFL season. The two celebrated a Super Bowl title in February, after making the move from the Detroit Lions to the Los Angeles Rams.

The Staffords came under fire in February once the team celebrated the Super Bowl title. A photographer fell off the stage and the star quarterback appeared to laugh it off. After backlash over the incident, the Staffords agreed to pay for the photographer’s medical expenses and a new camera.

—

Sean McVay & Veronika Khomyn

Veronika Khomyn and Sean McVay attend the 27th Annual Critics Choice Awards at Fairmont Century Plaza on March 13, 2022, in Los Angeles.

Veronika Khomyn and Sean McVay attend the 27th Annual Critics Choice Awards at Fairmont Century Plaza on March 13, 2022, in Los Angeles.
(Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic)

Sean McVay was feeling good after a Super Bowl title run as well and on the heels of solidifying himself as one of the top coaches in the NFL. He and his then-girlfriend Veronika Khomyn met while he was an assistant coach with Washington and she was a student at George Mason University. The two were engaged in 2019 and got married in June 2022.

Khomyn spoke out about the Ukraine war in a speech at the Critics’ Choice Awards in March.

“I proudly stand with my fellow Ukrainians and I admire their strength. They have faced unimaginable adversity with such profound grace and bravery, their fight and the way they have united the world is truly inspiring. There is no place in our world for this kind of violence and our prayers go out to all the lives that have been lost.”

—

Tom Brady & Gisele Bündchen

Tom Brady of the Buccaneers celebrates with Gisele Bundchen after winning Super Bowl LV at Raymond James Stadium on Feb. 7, 2021, in Tampa, Florida.

Tom Brady of the Buccaneers celebrates with Gisele Bundchen after winning Super Bowl LV at Raymond James Stadium on Feb. 7, 2021, in Tampa, Florida.
(Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)

Tom Brady was in the news throughout 2022 it seemed. He decided to step away from football and a month later he decided to return and the decision to do that apparently irked his then-wife Gisele Bündchen. Brady took a few days off from training camp while rumors about his marriage swirled.

Brady struggled at points during the start of the season and then the duo decided to divorce after 13 years of marriage.

“In recent days my wife and I finalized our divorce from one another after 13 years of marriage,” Brady wrote on Instagram. “We arrived at this decision amicably and with gratitude for the time we spent together. We are blessed with beautiful and wonderful children who will continue to be the center of our world in every way. We will continue to work together as parents to always ensure they receive the love and attention they deserve.”

Bündchen added: “The decision to end a marriage is never easy but we have grown apart and while it is, of course, difficult to go through something like this, I feel blessed for the time we had together and only wish the best for Tom always.

“I kindly ask that our privacy be respected during this sensitive time. Thank you.”

—

Rhys & Jayme Hoskins

Phillies' Rhys Hoskins kisses then-fiancé Jayme Bermudez during the Miami Marlins game on Sept. 27, 2019, at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia.

Phillies’ Rhys Hoskins kisses then-fiancé Jayme Bermudez during the Miami Marlins game on Sept. 27, 2019, at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia.
(Nicole Fridling/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

Rhys Hoskins made an appearance in his first World Series for the Philadelphia Phillies during the fall. Even though the Phillies fell to the Houston Astros, Hoskins had a home run in the World Series and a memorable National League Championship Series to lift Philly to the Fall Classic.

Jamie Hoskins had a memorable World Series as well. She became a fan favorite when she was spotted buying beers for Phillies fans.

JAYME HOSKINS, WIFE OF PHILLIES STAR, BUYS BEER FOR FANS DURING WORLD SERIES GAME 3

—

Gerard Pique & Shakira

Gerard Pique and Shakira attend the Turkish Airlines Euroleague playoffs between FC Barcelona Regal v Panathinaikos Athens at Palau Blaugrana on April 25, 2013, in Barcelona, Spain.

Gerard Pique and Shakira attend the Turkish Airlines Euroleague playoffs between FC Barcelona Regal v Panathinaikos Athens at Palau Blaugrana on April 25, 2013, in Barcelona, Spain.
(Rodolfo Molina/Euroleague Basketball via Getty Images)

Legendary soccer player Gerard Pique was caught in a scandal this year when he was accused of cheating on his wife, Shakira. The two had been married for 12 years and have two children together.

The two announced in June 2022 that they separated and Pique had been in a relationship with another woman.

“We regret to confirm that we are separating. For the well-being of our children, who are our highest priority, we request respect for (our) privacy. Thank you for your understanding,” the two said in a joint statement in June.

—

Justin Verlander & Kate Upton

Justin Verlander of the Astros and wife Kate Upton celebrate after defeating the Philadelphia Phillies 4-1 to win the World Series at Minute Maid Park on Nov. 5, 2022, in Houston, Texas.

Justin Verlander of the Astros and wife Kate Upton celebrate after defeating the Philadelphia Phillies 4-1 to win the World Series at Minute Maid Park on Nov. 5, 2022, in Houston, Texas.
(Rob Carr/Getty Images)

Justin Verlander and his wife Kate Upton had a fantastic 2022.

Verlander finished his final season with the Houston Astros with an 18-4 record, a 1.75 ERA and 185 strikeouts. He finished with his third American League Cy Young Award and another World Series title to his credit. And Upton was right there by his side throughout the entire thing.

Upton went viral during the World Series for giving the double middle fingers to Phillies fans and instantly became a fan favorite. To celebrate the win, she crashed the FOX broadcast set.

The two will now have a chance to do it big in the Big Apple. Verlander agreed to a contract with the New York Mets in the offseason.

—

Patrick & Brittany Mahomes

Patrick Mahomes of the Chiefs kisses his wife, Brittany Matthews, before the Los Angeles Chargers game at Arrowhead Stadium on Sept. 15, 2022, in Kansas City, Missouri.

Patrick Mahomes of the Chiefs kisses his wife, Brittany Matthews, before the Los Angeles Chargers game at Arrowhead Stadium on Sept. 15, 2022, in Kansas City, Missouri.
(Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

Some things are bigger than on-field accomplishments.

While Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs failed to win a third straight AFC Championship, something far better came along – a new child. Patrick and his wife Brittany welcomed a newborn baby into the world on Nov. 28.

Patrick “Bronze” Lavon Mahomes III was born 7 pounds, 8 ounces, the loving parents wrote on social media. The quarterback, who was named after his father, former baseball pitcher Pat Mahomes, posted a photo of the baby’s feet dressed in a onesie. The piece of jewelry below the feet of the baby read, “Bronze.”

The two revealed they were having a boy in June. Their second baby comes more than a year after Brittany gave birth to their daughter, Sterling Skye Mahomes.

—

Lionel Messi & Antonela Roccuzzo

Lionel Messi celebrates with his wife Antonela Roccuzzo after Argentina won the World Cup over France in Lusail, Qatar, Dec. 18, 2022.

Lionel Messi celebrates with his wife Antonela Roccuzzo after Argentina won the World Cup over France in Lusail, Qatar, Dec. 18, 2022.
(AP Photo/Francisco Seco)

More than a year after Lionel Messi left Barcelona and joined Paris Saint-Germain, the Argentine soccer superstar ended his 2022 capturing the title that eluded him – the World Cup. Messi scored two goals against France and another in penalties.

On the field, he and his wife celebrated.

Antonela Roccuzzo posted a few photos on Instagram in support of her husband. She paid tribute to Messi and thanked him for teaching her and their family to never give up.

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Messi and Roccuzzo got married in 2017. The two have known each other since they were younger and they kept their relationship private until about 2009. The couple have three children, all of whom were in Qatar to watch Argentina defeat France.

Ryan Gaydos is the sports editor for Fox News Digital.

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Panthers vs. Buccaneers odds, prediction, betting tips for NFL Week 17

Panthers vs. Buccaneers odds, prediction, betting tips for NFL Week 17

Sam Darnold and the Panthers will try out to preserve their playoff hopes alive on Sunday when they enjoy Tom Brady and the Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium (1 p.m. ET, FOX). Carolina has received three out of its earlier four video games and is only a single match powering the Buccaneers for first place in the NFC South. Meanwhile, Tampa Bay snapped its two-match getting rid of streak with an additional time get over the Cardinals on Xmas night time.

The last time these two divisional foes played each individual other, the Panthers defeated the Bucs 21-3 in Carolina in 7 days 7. Carolina has not performed nicely on the street this period (1-5), which may perhaps get the job done in the Buccaneers’ favor on Sunday. Having said that, Tampa Bay struggled to defeat a lowly Cardinals squad and imploded a few of months ago at home versus the Bengals. No 1 is aware what to anticipate in this matchup, but either way, it is a will have to-acquire for both equally groups.

Week 17 NFL PICKS: ATS | Straight up

Down below, we’ll give you all the info you have to have just before putting a wager on Panthers-Buccaneers, which include the up-to-date odds from Sporting activities Interaction, strategies, and our prediction for this Week 17 matchup.

Betting odds courtesy of Sports Interaction

  • Spread: Buccaneers -3
  • Over/Underneath: 39.5
  • Moneyline: Panthers +135, Buccaneers -162

The Buccaneers are a discipline objective favored heading into Sunday’s pivotal recreation, but they have been tough to believe in in opposition to the unfold this period. Tampa Bay is a league-worst 3-11-1 ATS and -6-1 ATS at residence. Meanwhile, the whole is set at 39.5 details, which is not shocking as the Bucs have struggled to score and the first sport concerning these groups observed just 24 mixed factors.

Panthers vs. Buccaneers all-time collection

The Panthers surprisingly guide the all-time collection in opposition to the Buccaneers with a history of 25-19. Having said that, the Bucs have won four of the earlier five conferences. The past time the Panthers defeated the Buccaneers in Tampa Bay was in 7 days 8 of the 2017 period. Cam Newton and Jameis Winston were being the starting up quarterbacks in that contest.

A few trends to know

— The Buccaneers are -5-1 from the distribute when stated as a household favorite and 2-4 ATS soon after a acquire this time.

— The Panthers are 1-5 straight up on the street but 3-2 ATS as a street underdog this season, in accordance to Bryan Zarpentine of BetQL.

— Carolina has thrived as an underdog this season (8-3 ATS), publishing the fourth-very best deal with percentage in the NFL.

Choose advantage of BetQL’s 3-day free trial and see all of our greatest bets across all sports, including university soccer, NFL, and MLB!

A few things to watch for

Can the Panthers’ jogging activity have results from the Bucs’ protection?

The Panthers are coming off their ideal offensive effectiveness this period, submitting 37 points and 320 hurrying yards versus the Lions last week. D’Onta Foreman led the way, hurrying for a activity-high 165 yards and a landing on 21 carries, and Chuba Hubbard included 125 yards on 12 carries. For the Panthers to get on Sunday afternoon, they will need to have Foreman and Hubbard to engage in important roles all over again.

The two functioning backs could have some achievements towards a Bucs’ defense which is authorized 120.3 dashing yards per recreation this season and 127.7 hurrying yards over the previous three games. When Carolina and Tampa Bay satisfied up for the 1st time in Week 7, the Panthers had 173 dashing yards and a landing. If the Panthers can make solid gains on initial and 2nd down by functioning the ball, it will make everyday living much easier for Sam Darnold and the passing match.

Which Tom Brady will show up?

The past time we noticed Brady and the Bucs play at property, the Bengals came back again and cruised to a 34-23 get at Raymond James Stadium a few of months ago. Brady has not experienced the best period below middle but has been far better at dwelling than on the highway. This period, Brady is finishing 68 {515baef3fee8ea94d67a98a2b336e0215adf67d225b0e21a4f5c9b13e8fbd502} of his passes for 2,463 yards, 14 touchdowns, and four interceptions at residence. This is a complete 180 from the Brady we see on the highway exactly where he’s completing 63.5 {515baef3fee8ea94d67a98a2b336e0215adf67d225b0e21a4f5c9b13e8fbd502} of his passes for 1,715 yards, 7 touchdowns, and 5 interceptions.

Who ways up for the Panthers in an elimination recreation scenario?

If the Panthers want to hold their playoff hopes alive on Sunday afternoon, they will have to have another person other than the jogging backs to phase up. Moore could be the difference-maker right after scoring his third touchdown in the past four months in opposition to the Lions very last week. More than the past 4 game titles, he is posted 14 receptions (22 targets) for 259 yards and a few touchdowns. This is a fantastic indicator for the Panthers, as they will need the veteran receiver to replicate his Week 7 effectiveness towards Tampa Bay when he had seven receptions (10 targets) for 69 yards and a touchdown.

Stat that issues

42.9. This is the Panthers’ 3rd-down conversion percentage on defense. 1 of the significant keys in this game will be Carolina’s potential to implement pressure to Brady and get Tampa Bay’s offense off the discipline. Tampa has struggled on third down this season, only changing at a 37.6-per cent clip (21st in the NFL). Over the earlier 3 online games, it is even lessen (31.1 {515baef3fee8ea94d67a98a2b336e0215adf67d225b0e21a4f5c9b13e8fbd502}).

Panthers vs. Buccaneers prediction

We know that the Panthers have not been very good on the road, and the Buccaneers have been underwhelming for most of this period. Having said that, experience matters the most at this time of the 12 months, which favors the Bucs. Tampa Bay will someway discover a way to get the get on Sunday, even if it can take additional time to do so. Brady will proceed his sound play at residence even though Tampa’s defense will do just more than enough to maintain Darnold and Co. at bay.

PREDICTION: Buccaneers 20, Panthers 18. The Panthers will deal with (+3), and the whole will go Less than (39.5).