Texas A&M delivered the biggest comeback in its football history on Saturday, overturning a 27-point halftime deficit to defeat South Carolina 31–30 and keep its undefeated season intact. The win at College Station extended the Aggies’ perfect record to 10–0 and strengthened their bid for their first College Football Playoff appearance.

The result marked a dramatic shift from last season’s loss to South Carolina, which derailed A&M’s momentum. This time, the Aggies overcame early turnovers, key defensive stops, and a standout second-half performance by quarterback Marcel Reed to secure one of the most improbable wins in recent Southeastern Conference history.

A Record-Breaking Rally Under Pressure

Reed, who struggled in the first half with two interceptions and a costly fumble returned for a touchdown, rebounded with a career-high 439 passing yards and three touchdowns. His turnaround fueled an offensive surge that reversed a 30–3 halftime deficit—overcoming a margin no SEC team had previously recovered from since at least 2004, according to conference data.

Head coach Mike Elko described the postgame locker-room scene as emotional, reflecting the team’s shared belief and persistence. He noted that few teams possess the culture required to withstand such adversity and continue fighting.

The comeback surpassed the school’s previous record: a 21-point rally during the 2013 Chick-fil-A Bowl, when Johnny Manziel led Texas A&M to a 52–48 win over Duke.

South Carolina Dominates Early Before Momentum Shifts

South Carolina built early control with an aggressive first-half showing. Quarterback LaNorris Sellers threw for 246 yards with two touchdowns, opening the scoring with a 50-yard pass to Vandrevius Jacobs. Defensive tackle Nick Barrett added a pivotal play when he recovered a Reed fumble and ran 17 yards for a touchdown, pushing the Gamecocks ahead 17–3.

Late in the second quarter, South Carolina capitalized again when Nyck Harbor sprinted 80 yards after a short pass for another touchdown, widening the gap to 27–3. A Reed interception in the final minute set up a late field goal that sent the Gamecocks into halftime up 30–3.

Coach Shane Beamer said the first half reflected South Carolina’s capability but lamented the inability to maintain performance after the break. He expressed disappointment in the team’s second-half execution, noting that momentum slipped when the Gamecocks failed to sustain control.

Bold Second-Half Offensive Shift Powers A&M Comeback

The Aggies opened the third quarter with renewed urgency. Reed found Izaiah Williams for a 27-yard touchdown, cutting the deficit to 30–10. On a fourth-and-12 situation, Reed extended the drive with a 16-yard run, demonstrating a shift in confidence and rhythm.

Minutes later, Reed connected with Ashton Bethel-Roman for a 39-yard touchdown, bringing A&M within two scores. Another quick strike followed when Reed found Nate Boerkircher for a 14-yard touchdown, narrowing the gap to 30–24 late in the third quarter. That drive was set up by a standout 76-yard catch-and-run from Bethel-Roman, who finished the day with 139 receiving yards. K.C. Concepcion added seven receptions for 158 yards, helping anchor the Aggies’ passing offense.

The momentum carried into the fourth quarter, and with 11 minutes remaining, EJ Smith scored on a 4-yard run, giving Texas A&M its first lead of the game at 31–30.

Defensive Stops Seal the Win

South Carolina attempted to mount a final drive, but the Aggies defense delivered at critical moments. After a fumbled trick play gave the Gamecocks possession with three minutes left, Dalton Brooks and Cashius Howell recorded back-to-back sacks on Sellers, setting up a fourth-and-16 scenario.

Sellers scrambled on the decisive play but was stopped short of the first-down marker, securing the victory for Texas A&M.

Linebacker Taurean York acknowledged that the team deviated from its initial game plan due to the early deficit but emphasized the unity and resilience that defined the comeback.

A&M’s Playoff Picture and Season Outlook

With the win, Texas A&M reinforced its position near the top of the College Football Playoff rankings. At 10–0 for the first time since 1992, the Aggies remain well-positioned for a postseason berth but face mounting pressure to maintain consistency.

Coach Elko said the team must improve ahead of its upcoming games if it hopes to contend for a national championship. While the comeback was historic, the early mistakes highlighted areas the coaching staff aims to address.

South Carolina, meanwhile, dropped to 3–7 and extended its losing streak to five games. The team will look to regroup at home against Coastal Carolina next week.

What Comes Next

South Carolina hosts Coastal Carolina next Saturday as it attempts to break its losing run and close the season on a positive note.

Texas A&M hosts Samford before preparing for a rivalry matchup against No. 10 Texas on November 28—a game expected to carry playoff implications.

Source: AP News – No. 3 Texas A&M pulls off biggest comeback in school history to beat South Carolina 31-30

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Historic debut for a record-setting athlete

Florida head coach Todd Golden waited until just over two minutes remained in the game before calling Rioux to the scorer’s table, responding to chants of “We Want Ollie” that filled Gainesville’s O’Connell Center. The 7-foot-9 athlete, towering above everyone on court, drew attention and applause despite not touching the ball during his brief appearance.

“It felt great,” Rioux said after the game. “The support from everybody was amazing, even on the bench and from the fans. I’m very grateful.”

Asked about becoming part of basketball history, Rioux responded with calm humility: “It’s another day, I guess.”

A giant presence in college sports

Rioux surpasses the height of former NBA centers Gheorghe Mureșan and Manute Bol by two inches (five centimeters), and stands three inches taller than other notable players such as Yao Ming, Tacko Fall, and Shawn Bradley. Before arriving in Gainesville, Rioux had already made headlines for his Guinness World Record and for his viral social media moments — from cycling around campus to ducking through doorways and cutting down basketball nets flat-footed.

Standing 7 feet 9 inches, Rioux became a figure of fascination and encouragement among teammates and fans. Even North Florida forward Trey Cady smiled when measuring himself against the towering freshman, noting the extraordinary height difference of more than a foot.

Building patience and perseverance

Rioux joined Florida in 2024 with a choice: play limited minutes as a true freshman or take a redshirt year to develop his skills. He chose the latter, spending the past season refining his conditioning and technique under the guidance of Coach Golden.

“He’s put in a lot of great work,” Golden said. “To his credit, he’s kept a great attitude without getting a lot of reward in terms of playing time and opportunity.”

Golden, who had been deliberate about when to debut Rioux, noted that the young player’s commitment never wavered despite limited opportunities. “There’s people yelling at me at halftime about playing him,” Golden added with a laugh. “I’m like, ‘Listen, it will happen. The time will come.’”

A defining moment on home court

The moment finally arrived when the Gators’ lead was well secured. Golden used the opportunity to give bench players their moment, including Rioux, whose entrance drew the loudest ovation of the night — second only to the unveiling of Florida’s championship banner before tipoff.

“When he was checking into the game, I kind of stopped him and said, ‘Play with confidence. You’ve worked your butt off for two years now to get to this spot,’” teammate Micah Handlogten said. “To see him out there running up and down the court with a little smile on his face — it was really good to see.”

The entire Florida bench erupted in celebration when Rioux stood to remove his long-sleeved warm-up shirt and approached the scorer’s table. Fans cheered every time the ball came near him, underscoring the enthusiasm surrounding his long-awaited debut.

A global curiosity grounded in discipline

Rioux’s stature has long attracted global attention. Born in Montreal, Canada, he was already over 6 feet tall at age 8 and surpassed 7 feet by 13. His rapid growth brought him into international basketball programs early, and by 15 he was training under the Canadian national development system.

At Florida, Rioux has embraced a rigorous training and nutrition program tailored to his unique physiology. While his height offers unmatched reach and visibility, it also requires careful management of endurance, coordination, and balance — areas he’s been diligently improving during his redshirt season.

Looking ahead: development over spectacle

Coach Golden emphasized that Rioux’s focus remains on long-term progress rather than viral fame. “Olivier’s goal isn’t just to be the tallest — it’s to be the best version of himself as a basketball player,” he said. “We’ll continue to develop his game and find the right moments for him to contribute.”

For now, Rioux’s short but symbolic debut stands as a milestone — both for college basketball history and for a young athlete learning to balance extraordinary visibility with patience and discipline.

As he walked off the court, fans gave him another standing ovation, recognizing not just his remarkable height but the perseverance and humility that brought him there.

Source: AP News – The world’s tallest teenager becomes the tallest player in college basketball history

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Published Time: 09-14-2025, 18:45

The third week of the 2025 college football season delivered dramatic twists, reshaping playoff outlooks and raising the stakes for teams across the AP Top 25. Upsets, narrow escapes, and critical injuries left poll voters with plenty to reconsider ahead of the latest rankings.

Georgia Survives Tennessee in Overtime Thriller

In one of the weekend’s most exciting matchups, No. 6 Georgia edged No. 15 Tennessee 44-41 in overtime. Tennessee controlled much of the game, leading for long stretches, but Georgia rallied late. The Volunteers missed a potential game-winning field goal as time expired in regulation, opening the door for the Bulldogs.

Running back Josh McCray sealed the win with a 1-yard touchdown run in overtime, handing Tennessee its first loss of the season. Georgia’s resilience against a strong SEC rival is expected to keep them firmly in the playoff conversation.

Clemson’s Struggles Continue in Stunning Loss

Unranked Georgia Tech shocked No. 12 Clemson 24-21, securing victory with a 55-yard field goal as time expired. The Tigers, now 1-2, struggled to maintain offensive rhythm and appear in danger of falling out of the AP Top 25.

The upset mirrored Clemson’s 2021 season struggles, raising concerns about whether head coach Dabo Swinney’s program can regain its footing. Georgia Tech, meanwhile, has built a strong case to enter the Top 25 after back-to-back impressive performances.

South Carolina Falters After Quarterback Injury

No. 11 South Carolina’s playoff hopes suffered a major blow after quarterback LaNorris Sellers exited with a concussion just before halftime against Vanderbilt. Backup quarterback Luke Doty was unable to spark the offense, and the Gamecocks fell 31-7.

Vanderbilt’s dominant win not only boosts its own credibility but also puts South Carolina’s ranking in jeopardy. With Sellers’ health uncertain, the Gamecocks could face more struggles in the coming weeks.

Smooth Sailing for Top Programs

While some ranked teams faltered, several others had no trouble maintaining momentum:

• No. 2 Penn State, No. 5 Miami, No. 13 Oklahoma, No. 21 Texas Tech, No. 22 Indiana, No. 23 Michigan, and No. 25 Missouri all cruised to decisive victories.
• These results suggest stability in the middle and upper tiers of the rankings heading into Week 4.

Teams on the Rise

• Georgia Tech: With their upset of Clemson, the Yellow Jackets are primed to enter the Top 25.
• Alabama: After a disappointing Week 1 loss to Florida State, the 19th-ranked Crimson Tide rebounded with a dominant 38-14 win over Wisconsin, positioning themselves for a move upward.
• Texas A&M: In perhaps the biggest shocker of the week, the Aggies stunned No. 8 Notre Dame 41-40 in South Bend. Quarterback Marcel Reed led a late game-winning drive, connecting with Nate Boerkircher on fourth-and-goal with just 13 seconds left.

Teams Likely to Slide

• Clemson: With two early-season losses, the Tigers are at risk of falling out of the Top 25.
• South Carolina: Their heavy defeat to unranked Vanderbilt could trigger a significant rankings drop.
• Texas: Despite a 27-10 win over UTEP, No. 7 Texas may slip in the polls due to an underwhelming performance.
• South Florida: The 18th-ranked Bulls were routed 49-12 by Miami, making a drop inevitable.
• Notre Dame: After falling to 0-2 with the loss to Texas A&M, the Fighting Irish are unlikely to remain in the Top 10.

Tennessee’s Position in Question

The Volunteers’ hard-fought loss to Georgia places them in a gray area. While they showcased the ability to challenge an elite SEC opponent, voters rarely reward ranked teams for close losses. Tennessee’s fate will depend on how the committee values competitive play against top-tier competition.

Programs Knocking on the Door

Several teams outside the Top 25 are making strong cases for entry:

• Mississippi State (3-0): After earning 52 votes last week, the Bulldogs crushed Alcorn State 63-0 to strengthen their bid.
• Vanderbilt (3-0): Following their blowout win against South Carolina, the Commodores are building momentum for a rankings debut.

Outlook: A Volatile Top 25 Ahead

Week 3 reshaped the college football landscape with dramatic finishes, surprise upsets, and injuries that will influence rankings and playoff outlooks. With perennial contenders like Clemson and Notre Dame stumbling, new opportunities are opening for programs such as Georgia Tech, Texas A&M, and Vanderbilt to climb into the spotlight.

As the season progresses, each week becomes more decisive—not only for playoff positioning but also for the future trajectory of programs battling to stay relevant in the Top 25.

Source: AP News –AP Top 25 preview: Clemson, South Carolina and Notre Dame lose in Week 3

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In a landmark decision this Friday, a federal judge gave the green light to what could be the biggest shakeup in college sports history: schools will soon be able to pay their athletes millions. This ruling tears down the long-standing amateurism model that has defined college athletics for over 100 years.

The journey began nearly five years ago when Arizona State swimmer Grant House challenged the NCAA and its biggest conferences, seeking to end the restrictions that kept athletes from sharing in the massive revenues their efforts helped generate. U.S. Judge Claudia Wilken’s approval of the final settlement clears one major hurdle — roster limits — that had held up progress. Now, colleges can start paying players as soon as next month.

What’s in the Settlement?

Here’s the big picture: schools are allowed to share up to $20.5 million with their athletes over the next year. Plus, over the next decade, a staggering $2.7 billion will be paid to thousands of former players who were previously barred from earning a dime from their college sports careers.

Lead plaintiff attorney Steve Berman called it “a fantastic win for hundreds of thousands of college athletes.” And he’s right. This settlement fundamentally reshapes how the multibillion-dollar college sports machine works — finally recognizing the players who make it all possible, especially football and basketball stars.

A Massive Shift Across College Sports

This isn’t just about money — it’s about transformation. The recruitment of top athletes heading for the NFL and NBA will become more competitive and lucrative. On the flip side, some schools may scale back programs that don’t bring in revenue, affecting thousands of athletes nationwide. Nearly all of the NCAA’s 1,100 member schools — home to almost half a million athletes — will feel the impact.

NCAA President Charlie Baker said the deal “opens a pathway to begin stabilizing college sports,” signaling a new chapter in the game.

How Did We Get Here?

Judge Wilken has been pivotal for years. Eleven years ago, she challenged the NCAA’s amateurism model with a ruling in favor of former UCLA basketball star Ed O’Bannon and others seeking compensation for use of their name, image, and likeness (NIL) — terms now as familiar as “March Madness.”

The NCAA only cleared the way for NIL earnings four years ago, but this settlement takes things much further. With the NCAA stepping back from oversight, power is shifting to the four biggest conferences — the ACC, Big Ten, Big 12, and SEC — which control much of the college sports landscape and the lucrative College Football Playoff.

Roster Limits: The Last Hurdle

The settlement nearly stalled this spring over roster limits that led some players to lose their spots. These limits were meant to allow schools to offer scholarships to everyone on the roster but ended up causing cuts to walk-on athletes.

After hearing from players, Judge Wilken ruled that any athlete cut — now called a “Designated Student-Athlete” — can return to their old school or join another team without counting against roster limits. This compromise addressed player concerns while affirming that roster spots were never guaranteed.

The delay caused uncertainty, with schools unsure if their long-planned programs could move forward.

Bubba Cunningham, athletic director at the University of North Carolina, summed it up: “It remains to be seen how this will impact the future of intercollegiate athletics — but we are committed to providing outstanding experiences for our student-athletes.”

Who Wins and Who Loses?

The winners here are mostly the star athletes in football and basketball at major programs, who will benefit from huge payments and NIL deals — some reportedly worth over $10 million.

The losers? Some walk-ons and partial scholarship athletes who may lose playing opportunities. Olympic sports athletes, who are often in these roles, face uncertainty too, despite their crucial role in U.S. Olympic success.

Despite these trade-offs, the attorneys behind the settlement say it delivers exactly what they promised: putting more money in the pockets of players who fuel the industry’s massive popularity — from the first kickoff to March Madness and beyond.

What’s Next?

While this settlement brings greater consistency, it doesn’t erase all legal questions. Different states still have varying laws about NIL payments, leaving room for future lawsuits. NCAA President Baker continues to push for federal legislation to create a unified rulebook and antitrust protections to keep college sports stable.

In short, the game has changed forever, and college athletes are finally getting a fair shot to share in the billions their talent and hard work generate.

Source: AP News  – Federal judge approves $2.8B settlement, paving way for US colleges to pay athletes millions

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In front of a roaring crowd of 19,277 fans, the UConn Huskies finally reclaimed their throne, defeating the South Carolina Gamecocks 82–59 to win their 12th NCAA Women’s Basketball Championship—ending a nine-year title drought.

It was a powerful return to dominance for the storied program, which last hoisted the trophy in 2016 under the leadership of Breanna Stewart. This time, it was a new trio of stars who led the charge: freshman phenom Sarah Strong, and seasoned guards Azzi Fudd and Paige Bueckers.

The trio accounted for a staggering 65 of UConn’s 82 points.

• Sarah Strong, the sensational freshman, had a game for the history books: 24 points, 15 rebounds, and 5 assists—a stat line never before achieved by a freshman in a championship game. She’s now part of elite company, joining Stewart and Napheesa Collier as the only Huskies to tally 100+ points, 60+ rebounds, 20+ assists, and 20+ steals/blocks (“stocks”) in a single tournament.
• Azzi Fudd, named Most Outstanding Player, brought the spark early with 13 first-half points and finished with 24 total, shooting 50% from the field. South Carolina’s focus on defending Bueckers left Fudd room to light it up.
• Paige Bueckers, under the defensive spotlight, quietly delivered a balanced line: 17 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 blocks, and 1 steal. Her leadership and poise were crucial throughout.

This championship meant even more for Bueckers and Fudd, both of whom battled back from devastating ACL injuries that forced them to miss entire seasons. Sunday night, they stood together at center court, trophy in hand—finally on top.

“To sit up here with the whole team and share this moment is extremely validating,” Bueckers said, beaming. “Nothing that life or basketball throws at us can break us anymore.”

1st Quarter:
South Carolina came out hot with a deep three from senior Te-Hina Paopao, but UConn kept pace. A late jumper from Bueckers, assisted by Strong, gave the Huskies a 19–14 lead at the end of the quarter. Turnovers and missed layups plagued the Gamecocks early.

2nd Quarter:
UConn’s defense turned up the heat. The Huskies forced multiple turnovers and disrupted South Carolina’s rhythm, particularly targeting standout freshman Joyce Edwards, who picked up early fouls and sat out the remainder of the half. UConn led 36–26 at halftime, with Fudd scoring 13 and Strong dominating the glass.

3rd Quarter:
UConn hit their stride, outscoring the Gamecocks 26–16 and ending the period on a 9–3 run. With a commanding 62–42 lead heading into the fourth, the Huskies had broken the game wide open.

4th Quarter:
The lead never dipped below 20 as UConn closed out the game in dominant fashion. They shot 48% from the field, recorded 18 assists (compared to South Carolina’s 8), won the rebound battle 40–36, and sank 86% of their free throws.

• UConn: Strong (24 pts, 15 reb), Fudd (24 pts), Bueckers (17 pts)
• South Carolina: Tessa Johnson & Joyce Edwards (10 pts each), Chloe Kitts (9 pts), Sania Feagin (8 pts)

South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley was candid in the postgame press conference:

“At the end of the day, we didn’t take care of the basketball. We took a couple of bad shots. We didn’t make layups—and they make you pay.”

For head coach Geno Auriemma, this title may be one of the most emotional of his career.

“The basketball gods have been cruel to this group. They’ve suffered so much—injuries, setbacks. But I knew they weren’t going to bring us this far just to break our hearts again,” Auriemma reflected. “I’m glad they were rewarded. This one’s special.”

After years of injury, heartbreak, and rebuilding, the Huskies are back on top—and it feels like the beginning of something even bigger.

Source: Forbes – UConn Clinches National Title That Has Evaded Them For Nine Years

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Selection Sunday was anything but predictable this year, with surprises, controversies, and powerhouse matchups defining the road to the Final Four. From North Carolina’s controversial inclusion to Auburn edging out Duke for the top seed, here’s what you need to know about this year’s March Madness bracket.

Auburn Earns No. 1 Seed Over Duke

Auburn claimed the tournament’s top seed despite losing three of its last four games, including a previous defeat to Duke in December. The selection committee justified this decision based on Auburn’s tough schedule—ranked second hardest in the country—helped by an SEC conference that set a record with 14 teams in the tournament.

“We’ve got to get our mojo back a little bit,” said Auburn head coach Bruce Pearl.

Florida, another No. 1 seed, dominated the SEC tournament and enters as the favorite to win it all, according to BetMGM Sportsbook.

North Carolina’s Controversial Selection

One of the biggest talking points was North Carolina making the cut, despite a 1-12 record against Quad 1 teams. This led to speculation about favoritism, as North Carolina’s athletic director, Bubba Cunningham, chaired the selection committee.

CBS analyst Seth Davis questioned the decision, asking whether North Carolina received an advantage due to Cunningham’s role. However, vice-chair Keith Gill, who oversaw discussions about North Carolina, insisted the selection was fair, citing the team’s perfect 8-0 record against Quad 2 opponents as a deciding factor.

The Tar Heels will face San Diego State in the First Four, while Texas, another last-minute inclusion, plays Xavier.

Rick Pitino and St. John’s Face a Challenging Path

Rick Pitino, now coaching his sixth different team in the NCAA tournament, will lead second-seeded St. John’s in a first-round game against Omaha. If they advance, they could face Arkansas and head coach John Calipari in a second-round matchup loaded with history and drama.

Pitino’s road to the Final Four begins in Providence, where he made his first Final Four appearance in 1987. Meanwhile, Calipari’s first game will be against seventh-seeded Kansas, led by coaching legend Bill Self.

Coaching Legends Return to the Tournament

• Tom Izzo leads Michigan State to its 27th straight tournament appearance. The second-seeded Spartans face America East champion Bryant in the first round.
• UConn looks to make history with a threepeat, a feat not accomplished since the early 1970s. They are seeded eighth and could face Florida in the second round.

SEC’s Dominance and the Tournament’s Big Takeaways

The SEC’s presence in this year’s tournament is historic, but it also created some unusual bracket outcomes:

• Three potential second-round games will feature SEC teams against each other—an outcome the committee generally tries to avoid but became unavoidable with 14 teams in the bracket.
• The SEC, Big Ten (eight teams), and Big 12 (seven teams) combined to claim 42.5% of the tournament’s 68 spots, reigniting discussions about expanding the field further.
• The SEC is now a proven basketball powerhouse, but can the conference win its first national championship since Kentucky’s title run in 2012?

Final Thoughts

With Selection Sunday delivering more twists than usual, the stage is set for an exciting and unpredictable March Madness. Will Auburn prove it deserved the top seed? Can North Carolina silence the doubters? And will Rick Pitino’s return to Providence be one to remember? The action begins Tuesday with the First Four, followed by the full tournament tipping off Thursday and Friday. Buckle up for what promises to be a thrilling ride to the Final Four in San Antonio!

Source: Ap News – March Madness bracket anything but sleepy as Auburn, Tar Heels picks highlight wild Selection Sunday

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Major Injury Concerns for Duke Ahead of March Madness

Top-ranked Duke suffered a major setback in the ACC Tournament as two key players—freshman star Cooper Flagg and defensive standout Maliq Brown—went down with injuries during Thursday’s quarterfinal win against Georgia Tech. The injuries come at the worst possible time as Duke prepares for a deep run in the NCAA Tournament.

Cooper Flagg’s Ankle Injury: A Big Blow for Duke

During the first half, Cooper Flagg went up for a rebound but landed awkwardly, twisting his left ankle in the process. The 18-year-old, who is widely projected as a future No. 1 NBA Draft pick, collapsed to the floor in pain, clutching his ankle.

Coach Jon Scheyer later confirmed that Flagg had suffered a sprained ankle and described his chances of playing in the ACC semifinals as a “real long shot.”

“It’s not about being ready to go tomorrow,” Scheyer said. “We’ve got to see if we can get him right for this run that we can make in the (NCAA) Tournament.”

Although X-rays revealed no fractures, Flagg was seen in visible discomfort. He was later spotted in a wheelchair but managed to walk out under his own power. He rejoined the bench for the second half but did not return to the game.

Maliq Brown’s Shoulder Injury: A Defensive Setback

Just minutes before Flagg’s injury, Duke also lost defensive ace Maliq Brown, who dislocated his left shoulder—the same injury that had sidelined him for three weeks before his recent return. Brown was forced to leave the game after an aggressive defensive play against Georgia Tech’s Naithan George.

Trainer Jose Fonseca had to help Brown off the court as he clutched his shoulder in pain. He was later taken to a nearby hospital for evaluation. His return remains uncertain.

Duke’s Challenge Moving Forward

The loss of both Flagg and Brown presents a major challenge for Duke:

• Flagg: The team’s top scorer and rebounder, his absence would be a significant offensive loss.
• Brown: A key defensive player known for his versatility, losing him weakens Duke’s ability to guard multiple positions.

The injuries come as Duke faces a quick turnaround in the ACC Tournament and the looming March Madness. With both players’ availability uncertain, the Blue Devils will need to adjust their strategy heading into the postseason.

Team Reaction: Rallying Without Their Stars

Despite the setbacks, Duke rallied from a 14-point deficit to secure a come-from-behind victory over Georgia Tech. Guard Tyrese Proctor remained optimistic about the team’s resilience.

“Obviously, it’s tough to see them go down,” Proctor said. “But it’s basketball, it happens. We’re going to get them right, and we’ll just continue to play our game.”

Duke will now have to wait and see if Flagg or Brown can recover in time for the team’s upcoming ACC semifinal—and beyond.

Source

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The Cotton Bowl semifinal between Texas and Ohio State is a high-stakes clash, with the winner advancing to face Notre Dame in the national championship game. Let’s dive into key highlights and updates as the action unfolds.

Key Pre-Game Storylines

1. Dominance of Ohio State:
   • Ohio State, led by Coach Ryan Day, has been the most dominant team in the playoffs. They opened with a 42-17 win against No. 9 Tennessee and followed it up with a 41-21 dismantling of top-seeded Oregon in the Rose Bowl.
2. Texas’ Resilience:
   • Texas, with former Ohio State QB Quinn Ewers at the helm, had a tougher path. After defeating No. 12 Clemson, they edged past No. 4 Arizona State in an overtime thriller at the Peach Bowl. Ewers’ performance (322 yards, 3 TDs) was instrumental in securing the win.

Live Game Highlights

Third Quarter Action

• Tie Game: Texas’ Jaydon Blue scored on a 26-yard touchdown pass, capitalizing on Ohio State’s blitz to even the score at 14-14 with 3:12 left in the third quarter.
• Defensive Standoff: Ohio State’s star defensive end, J.T. Tuimoloau, returned to the game after an ankle injury, boosting their defense as the Buckeyes held Texas to a punt earlier in the quarter.

Second Quarter Recap

• Big Plays Before Halftime:
  • Ohio State struck quickly with a 75-yard touchdown from Will Howard to TreVeyon Henderson, reclaiming the lead at 14-7 with just 13 seconds left.
  • Texas responded with an 18-yard touchdown from Ewers to Blue, tying the game earlier at 7-7. A fourth-down conversion by Arch Manning set up the score.
• Halftime Stats:
  • Total Yards: Ohio State 236, Texas 177
  • Key Players:
    • Ohio State QB Will Howard: 14/19, 200 yards, 1 TD
    • Texas QB Quinn Ewers: 10/20, 133 yards, 1 TD

First Quarter Recap

• Ohio State Strikes First: Quinshon Judkins ran in for a 9-yard touchdown, giving Ohio State a 7-0 lead.
• Defensive Showdown: Texas struggled to move the ball, punting multiple times. They managed just six rushing yards in the first quarter.

Additional Storylines

Players to Watch

• Jeremiah Smith (Ohio State):
  • After a quiet first half (1 catch, 3 yards), Smith’s impact could be pivotal. He has been a key playmaker in previous games, tallying over 100 yards and multiple touchdowns in the playoffs.
• Quinn Ewers (Texas):
  • Expected to enter the NFL Draft after this season, Ewers has been instrumental in Texas’ journey to the semifinals. His leadership will be critical in the second half.

Defensive Battle

• Elite Defenses:
  • Ohio State ranks first in total defense, scoring defense, and passing yards allowed. Texas is not far behind, ranking third in total defense and fourth in scoring defense.

Game Insights and Trends

• Ohio State’s Unique Approach:
  • Offensive coordinator Chip Kelly has slowed the pace, opting for huddles to preserve the team’s health and focus. This strategy has helped Ohio State thrive despite facing high-powered offenses.
• Texas’ Ground Game Struggles:
  • With just six rushing yards in the first quarter, the Longhorns need to establish their running attack to keep pace.

What’s Next?

• Second Half Outlook: Both teams have shown flashes of brilliance but must address consistency. Ohio State’s dynamic offense and Texas’ resilience will shape the final outcome.

Stay tuned for more updates as this thrilling game continues to unfold at the Cotton Bowl!

Source

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BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — Travis Hunter, the Colorado Buffaloes’ dynamic two-way standout, has been named the Associated Press College Football Player of the Year. Hunter earned 26 of 43 votes from AP Top 25 voters, edging out Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty, who garnered 16 votes, and Arizona State’s Cameron Skattebo, who received one vote.

A rare talent in college football, Hunter excels both as a wide receiver and a cornerback, rarely leaving the field and making game-changing plays in both roles. Known for his electrifying performances, Hunter also keeps fans entertained with creative touchdown and interception celebrations, including a signature Heisman Trophy pose.

Reflecting on his success, Hunter credited his team, saying, “I couldn’t do what I do without my team. So I view being up for these awards as team awards.”

Hunter’s remarkable versatility reminds fans of legendary players like Charles Woodson at Michigan, Champ Bailey at Georgia, and his coach, Deion Sanders, who also thrived in both offensive and defensive roles during his NFL career. Hunter’s decision to join Coach Prime, first at Jackson State and now at Colorado, was driven by his desire to play both sides of the ball—an opportunity only Sanders offered.

“I’m motivated when people tell me I can’t do something,” Hunter shared. “That I can’t dominate on both sides of the ball. I want to be an example for others that anything is possible. Keep pursuing your dreams.”

This season, Hunter helped Colorado finish with a 9-3 record, securing a spot in the Alamo Bowl against BYU on December 28. Over the course of the season, he played 688 defensive snaps and 672 offensive snaps, making him the only player in the Power Five conferences with over 30 snaps on both sides of the ball.

Hunter’s achievements don’t end with the AP Player of the Year award. He also won his second consecutive Paul Hornung Award as the most versatile player in college football. He is also in the running for several prestigious awards, including the Walter Camp Player of the Year, Maxwell Award, Biletnikoff Award (best receiver), and Bednarik Award (top defensive player). Additionally, Hunter is the favorite to win the Heisman Trophy, which he could bring home this weekend, becoming only the second Colorado player to win the award after Rashaan Salaam’s victory in 1994.

Despite his stellar season, Hunter wasn’t a finalist for the Jim Thorpe Award, given to the nation’s top defensive back, a decision that upset Coach Sanders, who vowed to give his own 1988 Thorpe Award to Hunter.

Hunter’s high school coach, Lenny Gregory, recognized his exceptional talent as early as Hunter’s freshman year. Gregory recalls telling college recruiters that Hunter would one day be the top player in the country. “They’d laugh at me, saying ‘What are you talking about? This scrawny kid?’ I told them, ‘Just watch. Just watch.’”

This season, Hunter finished with 92 catches for 1,152 yards and 14 touchdowns as a receiver. On defense, he recorded four interceptions, broke up 11 passes, and forced one fumble that helped secure a dramatic overtime win over Baylor. Hunter was targeted 119 times by his own quarterback, Shedeur Sanders, but only 39 times by opposing quarterbacks, showcasing his dominance on both sides of the ball.

Hunter’s likely final game in Boulder, a commanding victory over Oklahoma State, included three touchdowns and one interception, a performance that left fans and teammates in awe.

“I’m used to seeing him do all this spectacular stuff,” said Shedeur Sanders. “You all are just now seeing it on a national stage.”

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ATLANTA – The Georgia Bulldogs faced a daunting challenge in the SEC Championship game on Saturday, battling adversity on the field and from within. In a stunning turn of events, backup quarterback Gunner Stockton stepped up to lead No. 5 Georgia to a hard-fought 22-19 overtime victory over No. 2 Texas, securing their third SEC title under head coach Kirby Smart.

Stockton Shines in the Spotlight

Georgia’s starting quarterback Carson Beck suffered a devastating arm injury on the final play of the first half, casting a shadow over the Bulldogs’ chances. Enter Gunner Stockton, a seldom-used sophomore who had appeared in just six games during his college career, all in garbage time. With Georgia’s hopes hanging in the balance, Stockton showed remarkable poise, engineering a touchdown and two critical field goal drives to keep the Bulldogs alive.

“This kid is a winner,” an elated Smart said after the game. “He’s special, and he showed it tonight.”

Stockton’s heroics culminated in overtime, where he endured a bone-jarring hit that sent his helmet flying. Despite the blow, his efforts set the stage for Georgia’s game-winning score.

Beck’s Grit Amid Injury

Despite his injury, Beck returned for one critical play in overtime. Barely able to lift his throwing arm, he handed the ball to running back Trevor Etienne, who powered into the end zone for the decisive touchdown. As confetti rained down in Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the Bulldogs celebrated not just a championship but a moment of resilience and unity.

“This team never, ever says no,” Smart declared. “They just keep coming, keep coming. They never say die.”

Texas Stumbles in SEC Debut Season

For Texas, the loss was a bitter end to their first season in the SEC. The Longhorns outgained Georgia 260-54 in the first half but squandered their dominance with penalties and missed opportunities, leading just 6-3 at halftime. Quarterback Quinn Ewers threw for 358 yards but was sacked six times and threw two costly interceptions.

“This stings,” Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian admitted. “But we’ll regroup and compete in the College Football Playoff. We’re good enough to win it all.”

Key Moments of the Game

• Gutsy Play Calling: Georgia’s fake punt in the fourth quarter proved pivotal. With punter Brett Thorson injured, Drew Bobo executed a short snap and flip to Arian Smith, gaining nine yards and keeping the drive alive.
• Turnovers and Recovery: The Bulldogs fumbled twice on the same drive but recovered both times, ultimately scoring a go-ahead field goal late in regulation.
• Texas Struggles: The Longhorns’ running game faltered, managing just 31 yards on 28 carries, and their offensive line allowed 13 sacks in two losses to Georgia this season.

What’s Next?

• Georgia: With a first-round bye in the new 12-team College Football Playoff, the Bulldogs will rest and prepare for a Sugar Bowl quarterfinal on New Year’s Day.
• Texas: The Longhorns will host a first-round playoff game on Dec. 20 or 21, needing four consecutive wins to claim a national title.

Takeaway
Georgia proved their championship pedigree once again, overcoming injuries and fatigue to claim a dramatic victory. For Texas, the loss is a painful lesson in missed chances but an opportunity to refocus for the playoffs.

As Smart put it, “This team has the heart of a champion. They never stop fighting.”

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