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6 accused in romance scam extradited to US from South Africa

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 07:00:48 GMT

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa: Six Nigerian nationals accused of being part of an organized criminal network that allegedly stole more than US$6 million from American women through online romance scams were extradited to the United States on September 11, South African police said.

Police arrested the six men in Cape Town, South Africa, in 2021. They were handed over to officials from the Federal Bureau of Investig

Blue Jays look to bounce back after 9th-inning loss to Tigers

Tue, 15 Sep 2026 10:19:10 GMT

(Photo credit: Jesse Johnson)

The Toronto Blue Jays will have another chance against the visiting Detroit Tigers Tuesday night as they aim to make amends for a missed opportunity.

A lack of key hits early in the game came back to haunt the Blue Jays (75-76) in a 6-5 loss to the Tigers (71-79) on Monday in the opener of a three-game series. Detroit's winning run scored on an error in the ninth inning.

White Sox attempt to add more breathing room in race vs. Guardians

Tue, 15 Sep 2026 08:05:11 GMT

(Photo credit: Ken Blaze)

Miguel Vargas hopes he is heating up as the Chicago White Sox continue their series against the host Cleveland Guardians on Tuesday.

The White Sox third baseman slugged his 31st home run on Monday, a two-run shot during a decisive six-run sixth inning as Chicago won 7-3 in the opener of a three-game set.

It was only Vargas' second extra-base hit since Aug. 21, but it helped t

Dodgers, with playoff ticket punched, resume business in Cincinnati

Tue, 15 Sep 2026 07:19:07 GMT

(Photo credit: Katie Stratman)

After clinching their 14th consecutive postseason appearance, the Los Angeles Dodgers can check the first box off their list of goals.

Ahead of the second contest of a three-game set against the host Cincinnati Reds on Tuesday, the Dodgers (91-59) are far from satisfied.

'You should never take for granted getting to play in the postseason,' Los Angeles manager Dave Rober

MLB roundup: Dodgers, Yankees sew up postseason berths

Tue, 15 Sep 2026 06:55:07 GMT

(Photo credit: Katie Stratman)

Tarik Skubal threw seven scoreless innings while Teoscar Hernandez and Kyle Tucker homered as the visiting Los Angeles Dodgers beat the Cincinnati Reds 4-1 on Monday to clinch a playoff spot.

Skubal (10-7) allowed three hits, all singles, while striking out nine and walking one for Los Angeles, which earned a postseason berth for the 14th straight year and pulled within two ga

Gunnar Henderson's homer lifts Orioles past Mets

Tue, 15 Sep 2026 04:25:06 GMT

(Photo credit: Brad Penner)

Gunnar Henderson hit a tiebreaking homer in the eighth inning Monday night as the visiting Baltimore Orioles beat the New York Mets 2-1 in the opener of a three-game interleague series.

Dedniel Nunez (1-1) retired the first two batters of the eighth -- including former Mets star Pete Alonso -- before Henderson homered to right-center to lift the Orioles (73-78) to just their four

Ninth-inning error sends streaking Tigers to victory over Blue Jays

Tue, 15 Sep 2026 02:55:14 GMT

(Photo credit: John E. Sokolowski)

Zach McKinstry scored the go-ahead run from second base on a ninth-inning error as the visiting Detroit Tigers defeated the Toronto Blue Jays 6-5 on Monday.

Spencer Torkelson led off the ninth with a walk and was forced at second when McKinstry bunted into a fielder's choice. McKinstry stole second and scored when Toronto closer Louis Varland (5-6) could not handle Vladimi

Gunnar Henderson homer lifts Orioles past Mets

Tue, 15 Sep 2026 02:40:23 GMT

(Photo credit: Brad Penner)

Gunnar Henderson hit the tie-breaking homer in the eighth inning Monday night, when the visiting Baltimore Orioles beat the New York Mets 2-1 in the opener of a three-game interleague series.

Dedniel Nunez (1-1) retired the first two batters of the eighth -- including former Mets star Pete Alonso -- before Henderson homered to right-center to lift the Orioles (73-78) to just thei

White Sox ring up 6-run inning to kick off Guardians series with win

Tue, 15 Sep 2026 02:19:17 GMT

(Photo credit: Ken Blaze)

Miguel Vargas hit a two-run home run and Kyle Teel had a two-run double in a decisive six-run sixth inning to lead the visiting Chicago White Sox to a 7-3 victory against the Cleveland Guardians on Monday.

Andrew Benintendi was 3-for-5 with a run and an RBI, and Sean Burke (9-7) pitched five innings of relief, allowing one unearned run on four hits and two walks while striking out

Ohio St. remains CFP title favorite despite Texas loss

Tue, 15 Sep 2026 01:40:24 GMT

(Photo credit: Adam Cairns)

Ohio State's collapse in Austin, Texas, on Saturday night might have stoked Ryan Day's critics, but it did little to dissuade the Buckeyes' national championship hopes in the eyes of sportsbooks.

Despite Ohio State dropping five spots to No. 6 in The Associated Press Top 25 poll, the Buckeyes have remained the favorites to win the College Football Playoff at most sportsbooks. Tha

Tarik Skubal silences Reds as Dodgers clinch 14th straight playoff berth

Tue, 15 Sep 2026 01:19:23 GMT

(Photo credit: Sam Greene)

Tarik Skubal threw seven scoreless innings and Teoscar Hernandez hit a two-run homer as the visiting Los Angeles Dodgers beat the Cincinnati Reds 4-1 on Monday night to clinch a playoff spot.

Skubal (10-7) allowed three hits -- all singles -- while striking out nine and walking one for Los Angeles (91-59), which earned a postseason berth for the 14th straight year and pulled withi

Chiefs CB Mansoor Delane (shoulder) leaves in first quarter

Tue, 15 Sep 2026 01:19:18 GMT

(Photo credit: Jay Biggerstaff)

Kansas City Chiefs rookie cornerback Mansoor Delane left Monday's game in the first quarter with a shoulder injury.

The Chiefs announced in the second quarter that Delane was questionable to return.

Delane, the No. 6 pick in the 2026 draft, intercepted Bo Nix on the Broncos' opening series. He stepped in front of the third-and-11 pass intended for Courtland Sutton.

Newly No. 1 Texas focused on continuing to improve versus UTSA

Tue, 15 Sep 2026 01:19:13 GMT

(Photo credit: Adam Cairns)

Top-ranked Texas is enjoying its turn in the spotlight atop the college football world, but the Longhorns know they can't afford to look past undefeated UTSA on Saturday in Austin in their final nonconference game in the run-up to the Southeastern Conference gauntlet.

The Longhorns (2-0) ascended to the top spot in this week's Associated Press poll after a stirring 24-23 comeback

SEC commish says CFP expansion not a given, points to schedule 'issues'

Tue, 15 Sep 2026 00:40:37 GMT

(Photo credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck)

SEC commissioner Greg Sankey said that opening a negotiating window to discuss College Football Playoff expansion does not guarantee a larger field.

Sankey spoke to the Monday Morning Quarterback Club in Birmingham, Ala., amid a hectic start to the college football season, more for off-the-field reasons than for football itself.

Sankey would not comment on the SEC's

Brewers face Pirates with another NL Central title in sight

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 18:40:22 GMT

(Photo credit: Michael McLoone-Imagn Images)

The Milwaukee Brewers are inching closer to a division title and home-field advantage throughout the postseason as they prepare to face the Pittsburgh Pirates on the road Tuesday night in the first of a three-game series.

Milwaukee (93-57) could secure the National League Central crown as early as Tuesday with a win and a loss by the Chicago Cubs. The Brewers led

Patriots RB TreVeyon Henderson (ankle) returns to practice

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 18:19:12 GMT

(Photo credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images)

New England Patriots running back TreVeyon Henderson returned to practice on Monday as he eyes a Week 2 season debut Sunday against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Henderson, 23, missed all three practices last week with an ankle injury and was inactive for New England's season-opening 13-10 loss at Seattle.

A second-round pick in last year's NFL Draft out of Ohio Stat

Report: Cowboys S Malik Hooker to see specialist for forearm fracture

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 17:40:30 GMT

(Photo credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images)

Dallas Cowboys safety Malik Hooker has been diagnosed with a forearm fracture and is scheduled to meet with a specialist to determine a recovery timeline, ESPN reported Monday.

Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer said after Sunday's game that a fractured forearm was a possibility.

Hooker was injured during Sunday night's 28-20 road loss to the New Y

Yankees strive to keep momentum going in series against Twins

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 12:05:12 GMT

(Photo credit: Denis Poroy-Imagn Images)

The New York Yankees and Minnesota Twins are headed in opposite directions going into their three-game series, which will begin Monday night in Minneapolis.

The Yankees have won five of their past six games and are coming off a 2-0 victory over the visiting New York Mets on Sunday in a clash that gave the Yankees the series win. With an 86-63 record, the Yankees are

Dodgers' Tarik Skubal looks to duplicate recent outing vs. Reds

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 08:40:23 GMT

(Photo credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images)

The two-time reigning World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers are closing in on the National League West title and still have their sights on the NL's top seed.

Despite the positives, the Dodgers are limping into the opener of a three-game series against the host Cincinnati Reds on Monday.

Los Angeles (90-59) enters play having dropped two straight agai

Blue Jays get long-awaited power boost ahead of series against Tigers

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 07:40:23 GMT

(Photo credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images)

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. has finally homered at home, and that could be a good sign for the Toronto Blue Jays entering a three-game series against the visiting Detroit Tigers.

Guerrero, who has struggled most of the season, went 4-for-5 in an 8-1 victory over the Baltimore Orioles on Sunday in the rubber match of a three-game series.

His home run came in th

White Sox try to protect AL Central lead against Guardians

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 07:19:08 GMT

(Photo credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images)

First place in the American League Central is at stake when the host Cleveland Guardians square off against the Chicago White Sox in the opener of a pivotal three-game series on Monday.

Cleveland (76-74) pulled within one-half game of division-leading Chicago after a 9-2 road victory over the Minnesota Twins on Sunday. The Guardians also hold the third and final AL wil

MLB roundup: Yankees shut out Mets, move to brink of playoff berth

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 03:19:10 GMT

(Photo credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images)

Cam Schlittler pitched six innings of one-hit ball in taking the major league ERA lead, and the host New York Yankees shut out the New York Mets 2-0 on Sunday in the final game of the Subway Series.

Ben Rice and Austin Wells provided the only runs of the game via solo home runs as the Yankees won for the 18th time in 26 games and lowered their magic number for clinc

NFL roundup: Bears score 59 in record-setting Week 1 win over Panthers

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 01:05:05 GMT

(Photo credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images)

Caleb Williams threw for two touchdowns and ran for two more and the Chicago Bears pulled away for a 59-37 victory against the Carolina Panthers in Charlotte in the highest-scoring Week 1 game in NFL history.In the teams' season opener, D'Andre Swift scored three touchdown runs and rushed for 124 yards on 18 carries for Chicago. Williams completed 21 of 29 passes for 269 ya

Cal Quantrill, Corey Seager guide Rangers past D-backs

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 23:19:07 GMT

(Photo credit: Rick Scuteri)

Corey Seager had a 458-foot home run among his three hits, Cal Quantrill pitched six strong innings and the Texas Rangers held off the Arizona Diamondbacks 7-6 on Sunday in Phoenix to move to within one game of the American League West lead.

Seager hit a two-run homer eight pitches into the game, drove in three runs and scored twice.

Quantrill (9-5) gave up two runs on fiv

Alec Burlseon gives Cards win over White Sox with one swing

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 21:25:13 GMT

(Photo credit: Jeff Le-Imagn Images)

Alec Burleson hit a go-ahead, bases-clearing double in the bottom of the sixth inning and Michael McGreevy pitched six effective innings Sunday afternoon for the host St. Louis Cardinals in a 3-1 victory over the Chicago White Sox.

Chicago put its first two runners aboard in the ninth and loaded the bases with two outs, but Colson Montgomery flied to medium center field

Guardians creep closer to AL Central lead by hammering Twins

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 21:19:27 GMT

(Photo credit: Bruce Kluckhohn)

Steven Kwan, Jo Adell and Travis Bazzana hit home runs in the Cleveland Guardians' 9-2 win over the Minnesota Twins on Sunday in Minneapolis.

Kwan was 3-for-4 with a double, a walk, two RBIs and two runs while Bazzana added a walk, three RBIs and two runs and Adell scored two and drove in two for the Guardians (76-74), who moved within a half-game of the American League Centr

Eugenio Suarez's homer, late plays lift Reds past Brewers

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 21:19:22 GMT

(Photo credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images)

Elly De La Cruz scored the go-ahead run on Tyler Stephenson's sacrifice fly in the eighth inning, lifting the visiting Cincinnati Reds to a 4-3 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers on Sunday afternoon.

Cincinnati's Eugenio Suarez launched a three-run homer in the sixth inning, marking his second homer in as many games.

De La Cruz singled off Abner Uribe (5-3) to l

Deshaun Watson done after Week 1 disaster? Browns to 'watch the tape'

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 20:55:37 GMT

(Photo credit: Melina Myers)

Cleveland Browns head coach Todd Monken shielded quarterback Deshaun Watson from taking the blame alone for a 34-10 loss at Jacksonville on Sunday.

'I'd rather just speak about today, because I haven't had time to even look at the tape,' Monken said.

Watson was intercepted on the first drive of the game, and Cleveland fell into a 31-0 hole early in the third quarter. The B

Bengals capitalize on clumsy Buccaneers' 4 fumbles to open '26 with win

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 20:25:12 GMT

(Photo credit: The Enquirer/Sam Greene / USA TODAY NETWORK)

CINCINNATI -- Cincinnati's overhauled defense converted three first-half fumbles into touchdowns and led the Bengals past the visiting Tampa Bay Buccaneers 33-27 on Sunday.

Joe Burrow finished 25-of-35 for 254 yards, a touchdown and an interception for the Bengals (1-0), who finished with four forced turnovers. Baker Mayfield was 23-of-28 for 216 y

Trevor Lawrence (4 TDs), Jaguars blitz Browns 34-10

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 20:19:16 GMT

(Photo credit: Doug Engle)

Trevor Lawrence threw four touchdown passes and the Jaguars dominated the Cleveland Browns with a 34-10 win Sunday in Jacksonville.

Lawrence completed 18 of 23 passes for 245 yards as Jacksonville built a 31-0 lead before tapping the brakes in the second half.

Parker Washington caught Lawrence's first TD pass and led the Jaguars with five receptions for 83 yards. Ten Jackson

Texas takes No. 1 spot in AP Top 25; Oregon falls to No. 21

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 19:40:24 GMT

(Photo credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images)

Following its historic rally against Ohio State on Saturday, Texas is the new No. 1 team in The Associated Press Top 25 poll Sunday, while Oregon dropped 15 spots to No. 21 following a road loss to Oklahoma State.

Trailing the visiting Buckeyes by 20 in the fourth quarter, the Longhorns stormed back to win 24-23, marking the largest fourth-quarter comeback victory

Report: Maxx Crosby turned down Rams' trade interest

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 19:05:12 GMT

(Photo credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images)

Maxx Crosby made it known to teams looking to trade for him after a move to the Baltimore Ravens fell through last March that he only wanted to play for the Las Vegas Raiders, NFL Network reported Sunday.

Those interested teams, according to the network's sources, included the Los Angeles Rams, who eventually pivoted to a trade with the Cleveland Browns for five-time A

Reports: Rams' Myles Garrett headed to IR, to have knee surgery

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 16:05:11 GMT

(Photo credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images)

Los Angeles Rams star defensive end Myles Garrett will undergo arthroscopic surgery on a knee and will be placed on injured reserve, multiple media outlets reported on Sunday.

While the knee wasn't specified, Garrett missed most of training camp and wore a sleeve on his left leg at several practices.

The reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year, Garrett admitted

Amateur scouting director of White Sox resigns amid reported allegations

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 15:05:04 GMT

(Photo credit: Peter G. Aiken)

The amateur scouting director of the Chicago White Sox has resigned and is no longer with the team.

The club announced the departure of Mike Shirley on Saturday night with no further information given.

However, The Athletic reported that Shirley was being investigated internally following allegations of verbal harassment, which included comments both racial and sexual in

D-backs' Eduardo Rodriguez aims to continue as stopper vs. Rangers

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 14:40:21 GMT

(Photo credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images)

Five of Arizona left-hander Eduardo Rodriguez's 15 wins have come after a team loss, and the Diamondbacks could use him now more than ever.

'He's a stopper,' Arizona manager Torey Lovullo said. 'You know, every fifth day you get a really, really good chance at winning a baseball game. That's nice to know.'

Rodriguez (15-5, 2.55 ERA) will oppose solid Texas rig

Mariners ride record-setting rout into finale vs. Athletics

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 14:19:20 GMT

(Photo credit: Dennis Lee-Imagn Images)

The Seattle Mariners took a demoralizing walk-off loss from the Athletics on Friday night but bounced back in a record-setting way.

One day after winning by a franchise record 18 runs, the Mariners look to record another victory when they visit the Athletics on Sunday afternoon at West Sacramento, Calif.

After losing 6-5 in 10 innings Friday when Donovan Walton

Reds out to end miserable road trip with win against Brewers

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 14:05:15 GMT

(Photo credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images)

The Cincinnati Reds will hope to end what's been a brutal road trip on a high note Sunday when they face the Milwaukee Brewers for the final time this season.

Manager Terry Francona's team is 0-5 against the Los Angeles Dodgers and Brewers so far on their six-game road trip and is a loss away from being swept on a multi-stop trip for the second time this season. Cinc

Emmanuel Rodriguez, Twins eye encore vs. Guardians

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 14:05:09 GMT

(Photo credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-Imagn Images)

Forgive Emmanuel Rodriguez if he still appears to be floating on air Sunday.

The Minnesota Twins outfielder might still be trying to come to grips with his dream debut, in which he homered in his first at-bat in the big leagues. His blast sparked a four-run third inning, which proved to be enough for a 4-3 win over the Cleveland Guardians on Saturday.

Now c

White Sox take on Cardinals, look to head into crucial division series on a winning streak

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 13:40:22 GMT

(Photo credit: Jeff Le-Imagn Images)

After coming up with perhaps the biggest hit of the year for the Chicago White Sox, veteran Randal Grichuk said his team could move beyond a September slump and win the American League Central title.

Grichuk's go-ahead, two-run home run with the visiting White Sox down to their last strike in the ninth inning Saturday helped them stop a four-game losing streak, add to th

With eye on bigger picture, Dodgers chase series win vs. Marlins

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 13:19:05 GMT

(Photo credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images)

The Los Angeles Dodgers are a determined bunch.

On Sunday afternoon, the Dodgers (90-58) will try to win their three-game series over the host Miami Marlins (73-76).

But their real goal goes much further as they are trying to get everyone healthy so they can make their strongest possible push toward a third straight World Series title. It's a feat no team has a

Jays, Orioles in thick of AL wild-card race as games dwindle

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 13:05:03 GMT

(Photo credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images)

The Toronto Blue Jays will count on ace Dylan Cease on Sunday afternoon in the rubber match of their crucial three-game series with the visiting Baltimore Orioles.

The Blue Jays won 7-3 on Saturday after losing 7-4 on Friday.

Toronto (74-75) has a 5-4 lead in the season series with Baltimore (72-77), with head-to-head records being the first tiebreaker for teams

Rockies' Gabriel Hughes seeks elusive first win in matchup vs. Tigers

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 11:40:22 GMT

(Photo credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images)

Colorado Rockies rookie right-hander Gabriel Hughes possesses an ugly stat line, but he showed his potential in his last start.

Hughes will try to build off that effort in the finale of a three-game road series against the Detroit Tigers on Sunday afternoon.

Hughes (0-7, 5.81 ERA) held the New York Yankees to two runs (one earned) over five innings on Tu

MLB roundup: Mariners clobber A's by franchise-record 18 runs

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 07:55:05 GMT

(Photo credit: Dennis Lee-Imagn Images)

The Seattle Mariners set a franchise record for largest victory margin as well as season bests for runs and hits in a 19-1 rout of the Athletics on Saturday night in West Sacramento, Calif.

Cole Young homered and drove in five runs and Randy Arozarena went deep and had four RBIs for the Mariners. Among their 23 hits were rookie Michael Arroyo's first major league home

Top 25 roundup: Arch Manning, No. 4 Texas stun No. 1 Ohio State

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 07:25:04 GMT

(Photo credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images)

Hollywood Smothers scored on a 1-yard touchdown run with 25 seconds to play and Arch Manning came alive in the fourth quarter to direct three scoring drives as No. 4 Texas rallied for a 24-23 victory over top-ranked Ohio State on Saturday in a titanic early-season clash in Austin, Texas.

Manning finished with 196 yards passing, 133 of which came after halftime. He

Mariners set season highs in hits, runs in historic rout of Athletics

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 04:55:07 GMT

(Photo credit: Dennis Lee-Imagn Images)

Cole Young homered and drove in five runs and Randy Arozarena went deep and had four RBIs as the Seattle Mariners mauled the Athletics 19-1 on Saturday night at West Sacramento, Calif.

Michael Arroyo belted his first major league homer and Dominic Canzone and J.P. Crawford also hit homers as Seattle set season bests for runs and hits (23) and tied a season high with f

Randal Grichuk's 9th-inning homer lifts White Sox past Cardinals

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 03:55:24 GMT

(Photo credit: Jeff Le-Imagn Images)

Randal Grichuk hit a go-ahead two-run home run with two outs in the top of the ninth inning Saturday night for the Chicago White Sox, helping them beat the St. Louis Cardinals 6-5 and snap a four-game losing streak.

Grichuk went deep with a 1-2 count against closer Riley O'Brien, taking a sinker just over the fence to the opposite field in right, with outfielder Victor S

Down 20 points in 4th quarter, No. 4 Texas rallies to stun No. 1 Ohio State

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 03:55:19 GMT

(Photo credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images)

Manning finished with 196 yards passing after collecting only 60 yards in a dr

Wyatt Langford sparks 6-run fifth as Rangers top D-backs

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 03:55:14 GMT

(Photo credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images)

Wyatt Langford hit a 435-foot homer to open a six-run fifth inning, Elias Diaz had three hits and an RBI, and the Texas Rangers beat the Arizona Diamondbacks 6-2 on Saturday in Phoenix to even a three-game series.

Rangers right-hander Nathan Eovaldi, activated from the injured list Saturday, gave up one run over 2 2-3 innings of relief in his first appearance since

Wisconsin jumps all over Western Illinois from first snap in rout

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 02:55:36 GMT

(Photo credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images)

Abu Sama III went 72 yards for a touchdown on the game's first play, Gavin Lahm connected on three field goals, and Wisconsin won its home opener by toppling Western Illinois 36-9 on Saturday night in Madison, Wis.

The Badgers (1-1) led from the immediate outset as Sama set the tone and finished with 107 yards on eight carries.

Quarterback Colton Joseph went 1

SKC preserve early lead, pull off upset of LAFC

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 02:55:30 GMT

(Photo credit: Kylie Graham-Imagn Images)

Andre Luiz scored the first goal of his MLS career and Stefan Cleveland made six saves to help Sporting Kansas City earn a 3-1 upset of visiting Los Angeles FC on Saturday night.

Taylor Calheira and Jacob Bartlett also scored for Kansas City (5-16-3, 18 points), which snapped a three-game losing streak and won its first game since July 22.

Denis Bouanga scored

Brewers erupt again with 13 runs in win over Reds

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 02:40:29 GMT

(Photo credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images)

Garrett Mitchell's bat remained scorching hot as the Milwaukee center fielder went 4-for-5 with four RBIs, helping the host Brewers break a record Saturday as they defeated the Cincinnati Reds 13-9.

Combined with their 20-0 pummeling of the Reds on Friday, the 33 runs over two games set a new all-time high for the Brewers (93-56), surpassing the 32 they scored on July

Cincinnati runs all over Western Carolina in rout

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 02:40:23 GMT

(Photo credit: Aaron Doster-Imagn Images)

JC French IV completed 21 of 24 passes for 245 yards and two touchdowns as part of Cincinnati's 690 total yards of offense in a 62-10 rout of visiting FCS opponent Western Carolina Saturday night.

Gi'Bran Payne went over 100 yards for a second straight week, running for 102 yards and two touchdowns on 12 carries for Cincinnati (2-0), which racked up 418 yards on the

Cincinnati rallies twice to earn 3-3 draw against Charlotte

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 02:19:12 GMT

(Photo credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images)

Kevin Denkey scored tying goals twice in the second half in FC Cincinnati's 3-3 draw with visiting Charlotte FC on Saturday night

Denkey's second goal came in extra time off an assist from Bryan Ramirez after a corner kick. Pavel Bucha also scored for Cincinnati (8-8-8, 32 points).

Idan Toklomati's go-ahead goal for Charlotte came in the 55th minute on a hea

Red Bulls strike late against Crew to halt losing streak

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 02:05:03 GMT

(Photo credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images)

Ronald Donkor scored in the 89th minute to lift the visiting New York Red Bulls to a 1-0 victory over the Columbus Crew on Saturday night.

Dylan Nealis and Cameron Harper combined to set up Donkor for his second goal of the season, one that snapped the Red Bulls' league winless run at six matches during the third of four consecutive away games.

Ethan Horvat

Elena Rybakina tops Aryna Sabalenka to win US Open

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 23:19:18 GMT

(Photo credit: Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images)

Elena Rybakina put an exclamation point on an amazing and unlikely fortnight Saturday afternoon in the U.S. Open championship match.

The 27-year-old Kazakhstani, who will be ranked No. 1 in the world for the first time on Monday, defeated current No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus, 6-4, 5-7, 6-2 on Saturday afternoon at Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York.

Rybakin

Emmanuel Rodriguez homers in 1st AB as Twins clip Guardians

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 23:19:12 GMT

(Photo credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-Imagn Images)

Emmanuel Rodriguez hit a home run in his first big-league plate appearance and the Minnesota Twins held on for a 4-3 win over the Cleveland Guardians on Saturday afternoon in Minneapolis.

Royce Lewis went 1-for-3 with an RBI for Minnesota (70-78), which evened the three-game series with the rubber match set for Sunday. Kody Clemens and Victor Caratini added one R

Blue Jays outlast Orioles as teams battle to stay in playoff race

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 22:55:06 GMT

(Photo credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images)

Alejandro Kirk belted a two-run home run and had three RBIs Saturday afternoon to help the Toronto Blue Jays defeat the visiting Baltimore Orioles 7-3.

The teams have split the first two of the three-game series in their pursuit of an American League playoff spot. The Blue Jays (74-75) entered the day two games back of the third and final AL wild-card spot. The Orio

Twins call up OF prospect Emmanuel Rodriguez

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 19:55:19 GMT

(Photo credit: Mike Watters-Imagn Images)

The Minnesota Twins called up outfield prospect Emmanuel Rodriguez from Triple-A St. Paul on Saturday prior to the Twins' home game against the Cleveland Guardians in Minneapolis.

Rodriguez has been a prominent prospect in the organization since signing for a $2.5 million bonus in 2019. He appeared in 49 games with the Saints this season, slashing .262/.414/.500 wit

Rangers, Diamondbacks square off again in thick of wild-card races

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 14:19:09 GMT

(Photo credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images)

Arizona Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo had some advice for stretch-run observers.

'Buckle up,' he said. 'It's going to be awesome.'

The Diamondbacks and Texas Rangers, both hunting for postseason spots, will continue their quest in the second game of a three-game series in Phoenix on Saturday night.

The D-backs scored the final nine runs in a 9-1 win

Mariners' Bryan Woo strives to maintain dominance over A's

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 13:40:25 GMT

(Photo credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images)

Bryan Woo has dominated the Athletics throughout his four-year career but he may have raised his level to new heights last Sunday.

Six days after tossing eight scoreless innings of one-hit ball, Woo attempts to frustrate the Athletics hitters again on Saturday night when Seattle faces the A's in the middle contest of the three-game series at West Sacramento, Calif.<

Kyle Leahy, Cardinals seek to prolong White Sox slump

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 13:40:18 GMT

(Photo credit: Joe Puetz-Imagn Images)

Amid a weekend celebration honoring their legendary stars and teams, the St. Louis Cardinals and their fans also can dream about the future of the club after promising performances by some of their best young players.

On the other side of Busch Stadium, the visiting Chicago White Sox will try not to fret about handing over most of their lead in the American League Cent

With playoff berth secured after 20-0 rout, Brewers focus on rematch vs. Reds

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 13:19:06 GMT

(Photo credit: Michael McLoone-Imagn Images)

The Milwaukee Brewers acknowledged the importance of clinching their eighth postseason berth in nine seasons before quickly focusing on Saturday night's matchup with the visiting Cincinnati Reds.

The Brewers have not named a starting pitcher, although left-hander Kyle Harrison (10-4, 3.66 ERA) is a possibility after struggling mightily in his last two outings.Rig

Guardians riding boost of energy into rematch vs. Twins

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 12:19:08 GMT

(Photo credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images)

Travis Bazzana knows how calendars work.

This month is September. Next month is October.

Every game is more exciting than the last. Bazzana and his teammates will look to deliver another victory when the Cleveland Guardians (75-73) play the Minnesota Twins (69-78) on Saturday afternoon in Minneapolis.

Cleveland is coming off a 5-2 win in Friday's series ope

Blue Jays bid to put 'best foot forward' in rematch vs. Orioles

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 11:40:20 GMT

(Photo credit: Jamie Sabau-Imagn Images)

The visiting Baltimore Orioles have a chance to draw even with the Toronto Blue Jays on Saturday afternoon in the crowded race for the final wild-card spot in the American League.

The Orioles (72-76) recorded a 7-4 victory over the Blue Jays (73-75) in the opener of a three-game series on Friday night to pull to 4-4 in the season series.

The teams will play aga

Andrew Sears set to rejoin Tigers for start against Rockies

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 07:55:15 GMT

(Photo credit: David Richard)

The Detroit Tigers traded a two-time Cy Young Award-winning pitcher and tumbled out of the playoff race last month. A jolt of youth and energy has given them hope for the future.

Detroit, which hosts the Colorado Rockies on Saturday afternoon in the second game of a three-game series, has won four of its last six games.

Infielder Kevin McGonigle appears headed for the Ame

MLB roundup: Rays, Brewers become first teams to clinch playoff berths

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 06:55:08 GMT

(Photo credit: Jonathan Dyer)

Junior Caminero launched a mammoth walk-off home run in the ninth inning Friday night, sending the Tampa Bay Rays to the postseason by virtue of a 3-1 win over the Houston Astros in St. Petersburg, Fla.

The American League's home run leader, Caminero crushed a 417-foot blast to left-center field off reliever Bryan Abreu (6-4) for his 40th long ball. One batter earlier, Jonathan

A's again play spoiler vs. Mariners with walk-off win in 10th

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 06:19:04 GMT

(Photo credit: Dennis Lee-Imagn Images)

Donovan Walton led off the bottom of the 10th inning with a two-run, walk-off homer to right as the Athletics recorded a dramatic 6-5 victory over the Seattle Mariners on Friday night at West Sacramento, Calif.

Pinch runner Michael Stefanic was the automatic runner on second to start the inning against Seattle right-hander Eduard Bazardo (3-4). The left-handed-hitting

A's again play spoiler vs. Mariners with walk-off win in 10

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 05:40:24 GMT

(Photo credit: Dennis Lee-Imagn Images)

Pinch runner Michael Stefanic was the automatic runner on second to start the inning against Seattle right-hander Eduard Bazardo (3-4). The left-handed-hitting

Back-to-back big innings propel Diamondbacks past Rangers

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 05:05:06 GMT

(Photo credit: Rick Scuteri)

Corbin Carroll and Nolan Arenado hit back-to-back homers in a five-run sixth inning, Ketel Marte doubled twice and drove in three runs and the Arizona Diamondbacks stopped the Texas Rangers 9-1 on Friday in Phoenix.

Gabriel Moreno had two hits and two RBIs and Ildemaro Vargas had two hits and drove in a run for the D-backs, who posted their major league-best 44th comeback victor

Rookies power Cardinals to win as White Sox's division lead shrinks

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 04:55:08 GMT

(Photo credit: Jeff Curry)

Rookie Joshua Baez and Leo Bernal each had three hits and drove in two runs Friday night for the St. Louis Cardinals in a 7-3 victory against the visiting Chicago White Sox.

Alec Burleson had two hits and two RBIs for the Cardinals, whose own hopes remain dim in the National League wild-card race. The Cardinals (73-75) did manage to strike a blow against the first-place White Sox'

Guardians boost playoff hopes with 3-run ninth vs. Twins

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 03:40:23 GMT

(Photo credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-Imagn Images)

Angel Martinez went 2-for-4 with a two-run home run, and the Cleveland Guardians scored three runs in the top of the ninth inning to secure a 5-2 win over the Minnesota Twins on Friday night in Minneapolis.

Brayan Rocchio finished 1-for-3 with a double and two RBIs for Cleveland (75-73) in the opener of the three-game series. Travis Bazzana went 2-for-2 and score

Brewers demolish Reds 20-0, wrap up postseason berth

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 02:40:44 GMT

(Photo credit: Michael McLoone)

Garrett Mitchell hit a grand slam, William Contreras homered and drove in six runs, and Dustin May tossed six innings of two-hit ball as the Milwaukee Brewers routed the visiting Cincinnati Reds 20-0 on Friday night to clinch their eighth postseason berth in nine seasons.

The Brewers fell short of the biggest shutout in modern major league history, a record they tied on Aug.

Orioles top Blue Jays, gain ground in wild-card chase

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 02:40:37 GMT

(Photo credit: Nick Turchiaro)

Dylan Beavers socked a solo home run and had three RBIs Friday night as the visiting Baltimore Orioles defeated the Toronto Blue Jays 7-4 to pick up a crucial game in the playoff chase.

Coby Mayo added a solo blast and Christian Encarnacion-Strand rapped out three hits for the Orioles in the opener of a three-game series.

The Orioles (72-76) moved to within one game of t

Playoff hopefuls Orlando, Toronto surging ahead of matchup

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 00:40:47 GMT

(Photo credit: Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images)

Orlando City SC have been on a roll of late, and they'll look to keep it going when they host Toronto FC on Saturday.

Orlando (9-11-4, 31 points) has won two straight and is riding a four-game unbeaten streak (3-0-1) after a 3-2 victory against Atlanta United on Wednesday. The current run comes after a stretch that saw the club go 2-3-2 in its previous seven games

Tai Baribo right back to scoring ways for D.C. United as Atlanta visits

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 00:19:02 GMT

(Photo credit: Jamie Sabau-Imagn Images)

Tai Baribo is back in form and the D.C. United forward will look to add to his goal total during Saturday night's home match against Atlanta United.

Baribo recently missed time due to a knee injury but he excelled in his first game back from the ailment. He scored goals in the 24th and 38th minutes as D.C. United posted a 2-1 home victory over the Columbus Crew on We

Crew, Red Bulls each hope to inch towards playoff position in clash

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 23:40:27 GMT

(Photo credit: John Jones-Imagn Images)

The Columbus Crew and visiting New York Red Bulls will both look to jumpstart a potential playoff push when they meet on Saturday night.

Columbus (6-13-5, 23 points) has lost five of its last six league matches under interim manager Laurent Courtois in a stretch the Frenchman believes has included better play than the final results indicate.

That includes a 2-1

Alexander Zverev sweeps way into US Open finals

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 23:19:13 GMT

(Photo credit: Geoff Burke)

It took Alexander Zverev 40 major tournaments spread over 12 seasons, a crushing loss and a devastating injury before he won his first, long-awaited Grand Slam title at the French Open in June.

The second one could come in much shorter order for Zverev, who defeated Karen Khachanov of Russia 6-3, 7-6 (7), 7-6 (6) in just under three hours on Friday to advance to the final of the

Cincinnati, Charlotte both must lean on roster depth in rematch

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 23:19:07 GMT

(Photo credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images)

FC Cincinnati need a big turnaround just three nights after another frustration-filled defeat.

The opportunity will come against visiting Charlotte FC on Saturday.

Both teams will be without suspended key players, so making adjustments will be vital.

Charlotte (11-7-6, 39 points) defeated host Montreal 2-1 on Wednesday night, stretching its unbeaten run to

Alexander Zverev sweeps way into U.S. Open finals

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 22:55:16 GMT

(Photo credit: Geoff Burke)

It took Alexander Zverev 40 major tournaments spread over 12 seasons, a crushing loss and a devastating injury before he won his first, long-awaited Grand Slam title at the French Open in May.

The second one could come in much shorter order for Zverev, who defeated Karen Khachanov of Russia 6-3, 7-6 (7), 7-6 (6) in three hours on Friday to advance to the final of the U.S. Open in

Twins star CF Byron Buxton (hip) to undergo season-ending surgery

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 22:19:24 GMT

(Photo credit: Jordan Johnson)

Minnesota Twins star center fielder Byron Buxton is done for the season and will undergo arthroscopic right hip surgery on Sept. 18, the team said Friday.

Buxton has been dealing with a hip impingement that has sent him to the injured list three times this season. He last played for Minnesota on Aug. 25.

Twins manager Derek Shelton told reporters that Buxton should be re

Steelers lean into QB stability as Falcons face early crisis

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 21:40:34 GMT

(Photo credit: Barry Reeger)

With All-Pro running back Bijan Robinson headlining, the Falcons envisioned a 'Rush Hour' of sorts to open the season on Sunday at Pittsburgh.

No one in Atlanta expected the leader on the marquee in the buildup to Week 1 to be another Rush.

But longtime backup Cooper Rush jumped into the starting role on Friday after two days of working with the first-team offense. He ente

Blue Jays DFA OF Jesus Sanchez, promote OF Rudy Martin Jr.

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 20:40:31 GMT

(Photo credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images)

The Toronto Blue Jays designated outfielder Jesus Sanchez for assignment Friday and recalled outfielder Rudy Martin Jr. from Triple-A Buffalo.

Sanchez was in his first season with the Blue Jays and batted .260 with eight homers and 35 RBIs in 99 games.

Sanchez, 28, is in his seventh major league campaign. He has a .242 career average with 81 homers, 110 double

Diamondbacks' Corbin Carroll likely will return for opener vs. Rangers

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 10:55:13 GMT

(Photo credit: Anna Carrington)

The Arizona Diamondbacks and Texas Rangers, World Series opponents in 2023, enter a weekend series with a different mission: merely making the postseason.

Both teams are locked in fights for playoff spots heading into the three-game set that begins Friday in Phoenix.

Arizona right-hander Merrill Kelly (9-13, 5.06 ERA), who spent time with both teams last season, will op

Cardinals, amid 2006 title celebration, open series vs. White Sox

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 10:40:21 GMT

(Photo credit: Jeff Curry)

On pace to finish a second straight season with a losing record, the St. Louis Cardinals plan on leaning into their much more successful past as the Chicago White Sox come to town Friday night to start a three-game set.

The Cardinals will celebrate their World Series championship of 2006 on Friday. Albert Pujols, Yadier Molina, Adam Wainwright, Jim Edmonds, Chris Carpenter, manage

Framber Valdez, Tigers aim to extend Rockies' misery

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 09:40:20 GMT

(Photo credit: Ken Blaze)

Framber Valdez has held the opposition scoreless in three of his starts this season. One of those came in his latest outing, in Cleveland on Saturday.

The Detroit Tigers left-hander will look to continue putting up zeros when he opposes the visiting Colorado Rockies on Friday night.

Valdez (9-10, 4.17 ERA) gave up just three hits and one walk against the Guardians. He struck

MLB roundup: Anthony Volpe returns with grand slam as Yankees roll

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 03:40:24 GMT

(Photo credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images)

Anthony Volpe produced an impressive return to the major leagues with three hits, including a grand slam during a six-run seventh inning, as the New York Yankees pulled away for a 10-3 victory over the visiting Colorado Rockies.

Volpe went 3-for-4 with a career-high five RBIs in his first game with New York since being supplanted at shortstop by George Lombard

Pirates blank White Sox to complete three-game road sweep

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 02:40:30 GMT

(Photo credit: Matt Marton)

Jared Jones pitched seven innings of one-hit ball and Oneil Cruz went 3-for-4 with a solo homer and RBI single as the visiting Pittsburgh Pirates blanked the Chicago White Sox 2-0 on Thursday to complete a three-game sweep.

Jones was dominant against the slumping American League Central leaders, spacing two walks and eight strikeouts while throwing 61 of his 90 pitches for strike

Ohio voters have until October 5 to register to vote

Tue, 15 Sep 2026 01:06:50 GMT

Today is National Voter Registration Day and Ohioans have less than a month to make sure they are able to vote in the upcoming midterm election.

People who are planning to vote for the first time or in a long time can register by going to V

Mail-in midterm ballots are out for Ohio voters

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 00:01:29 GMT

The U.S. Supreme Court is considering President Donald Trump’s

Day After Victory Over Browns: Coen Pleased With Fast Week 1 Start

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 22:47:57 GMT

byJohn Oehser&John Shipley

JACKSONVILLELiam Coenliked what he saw. A lot.

The Jaguars rolled through Week 1 with plenty of big plays and plenty of positives, leaving the first Sunday of the2026 regular season with a 34-10 victory over the Cleveland Browns at EverBank Stadiumand leaving plenty for Coen to be happy about.

"The guys came out and tried to do what we asked them to do i

Bucs Get Three Receivers Going in Zac Robinson's Play-Calling Debut

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 20:27:00 GMT

In the Bucs' first regular-season game under the direction of new Offensive Coordinator Zac Robinson, the team leaned heavily into three-receiver personnel, which meant giving a large amount of playing time to rookie Ted Hurst alongside Chris Godwin and Emeka Egbuka

Scott Smith

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have now played one regular season game with Zac Robinson as their offensive coordinator and, of course,

Bucky Irving Returns to Form in Zac Robinson's Offense

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 18:30:00 GMT

Bucky Irving's first start of 2026 is a sign of good things to come

Gabriel Kahaian

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers fought hard in their season opener against the Cincinnati Bengals, but turnovers were ultimately their downfall in the 33-27 defeat. Despite the turnovers, the matchup provided a glimpse of the Bucs' new-look offense under play-caller Zac Robinson. It is only one game's worth of film, but it is alr

Josiah Trotter Sparks Defense in Historic Debut

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 17:08:41 GMT

Against the Bengals in the preseason opener at Paycor Stadium, rookie inside linebacker Josiah Trotter spearheaded the defensive effort with a sack, pick-six and team-leading 10 tackles

Brianna Dix

With his team down 27-13 in the third quarter on Sunday in Cincinnati, rookie inside linebacker Josiah Trotter ignited the Buccaneers' defense and awakened the Tampa Bay fans in attendance. From third-and-five,

Another Rookie Debut, Another Touchdown | Data Crunch

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 15:47:00 GMT

For the fourth season in a row, Tampa Bay's opening game featured a rookie finding the end zonePlus Baker Mayfield moves up a franchise chart, Emeka Egbuka passes 1,000 and Chase McLaughlin adds to an NFL record

Scott Smith

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers opened their 2026 season with a 33-27 loss at Cincinnati on Sunday, ending a streak of five straight seasons in which they had won not only their first contest

Takeaways from Buccaneers-Bengals | Week 1

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 14:20:23 GMT

Top observations from the Buccaneers 33-27 loss to the Bengals at Paycor Stadium in the season opener

Brianna Dix

The Buccaneers first drive at Paycor Stadium culminated in a Chase McLaughlin 34-yard field goal; however the subsequent three drives ending in fumbles led to 21 points for the Bengals. Though the Bucs did not punt, Joe Burrow threw a pick-six and Bucky Irving accumulated 93 yards from scrimma

Buccaneers' Next Game: Cleveland Browns Visit for 2026 Home Opener

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 11:00:00 GMT

After a season-opening loss in Cincinnati, the Bucs return home to play another AFC North team, in this case a Cleveland Browns franchise that has some connection to Tampa Bay QB Baker Mayfield

Scott Smith

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers 2026 season opened witha six-point loss at Cincinnati, marking the first time since 2020 that the team had not come away victorious in Week One. That means Week Two will be an e

Caleb Downs seeking improvement after NFL debut

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 05:01:06 GMT

Kurt Daniels

Overall, the season opener was obviously a rough one for the Dallas Cowboys defense, as the unit surrendered four touchdowns and 394 yards of total offense to the New York Giants. But there was at least a sign of better things to come in the form of first-round pick Caleb Downs.

Making his pro debut, the Ohio State product got his first real taste of NFL action after playing only six snaps in t

O-Zone Late Night, 2026 Week 1: Jaguars 34, Browns 10

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 01:24:46 GMT

John Oehser

JACKSONVILLEWhat. A. Start.

The Jaguars didn't just win their 2026 regular-season opener Sunday, they did so in as impressive a fashion as possible a34-10 victory over the Cleveland Browns at EverBank Stadiumthat was as one-sided and dominant as the score indicated.

QuarterbackTrevor Lawrencewas near perfect. The defense stopped the run, pressured Browns quarterback Deshau

Five Key Storylines From Jaguars' Week 1 Win Over Browns: Ideal Start

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 01:14:06 GMT

John Oehser

JACKSONVILLESenior writer John Oehser examines five key storylines from theJaguars 34-10 victory over the Cleveland Browns in a 2026 Week 1 game at EverBank Stadiumin Jacksonville Sunday

1.Getting physical.The Jaguars' Week 1 victory was one-sided. WhatHead Coach Liam Coenemphasized afterward was less obvious than the score but perhaps more important. "I thought