Ohio State star’s season-ending injury

The good news for Ohio State comes from the return of running back TreVeyon Henderson, who against Wisconsin in Week 9 appeared better than ever.

Bad news, eh? It looks like his main backfield partner is heading the other way.

On November 25, Michigan football will have to worry about Henderson and converted linebacker Chip Trayanum, but it appears that they won’t have to worry about the backfield’s face from the previous two seasons. Senior Miyan Williams will miss the entirety of the 2023 season due to an injury, according to information released by Buckeyes head coach Ryan Day on Tuesday.

Williams had seven carries for 24 yards in 2021 and eight carries for 34 yards against the Wolverines in 2022. Last season, the Buckeyes were force

I’ll be reviewing the previous week’s events to determine how we can best use what happened on the field at the running back position to our advantage throughout the entire season. In addition to focusing on weekly snap shares, this weekly article will identify a few players who would gain from seeing more playing time in the upcoming weeks.

There were plenty of running backs in the league for fantasy managers to savour during a week when there were no teams on bye. The Broncos surprised everyone by defeating the Chiefs, all the while providing elite-level nutrition to Javonte Williams. And in a primetime loss to the Bills, the Buccaneers fed targets to Rachaad White once more.

d to depend on Williams and Trayanum because Henderson was sidelined by injury.

Dallan Hayden, who surged late in the season, seemed to be the target of OSU’s attempt to redshirt him, but that might not be feasible going forward.

Snap Report for Week 8: Javonte Williams Takes on a True RB1 Role

As we approach Week 9 of the season, I discuss these and a few other running back scenarios in this week’s snap report.

As usual, a table listing every player who saw at least 30% of their team’s snaps in Week 8 can be found at the conclusion of the article. Below are some players whose performances and circumstances stood out this past week.

Week 9: DEN, DET, JAC, SF are off.

NOTE: FantasyPoints.com and PFF.com provided the route data and photos.

Williams Javonte (DEN)
For Javonte Williams, the season has gotten off to a slow start. After recovering from an ACL tear, the third-year back avoided starting the season on injured reserve. However, in his first six games, Williams ran for 63-272-0 (4.3 YPC).

In this week’s snap report, as we approach Week 9 of the season, I discuss these and a few other running back scenarios.

As usual, the players whose actions and circumstances this past week stood out are listed below. A table listing every player who saw at least 30% of their team’s snaps in Week 8 can be found at the conclusion of the article.

Byes in Week 9: DEN, DET, JAC, SF

NOTE: FantasyPoints.com and PFF.com provided the photos and route information.

The Den’s Javonte Williams
Javonte Williams has had a sluggish start to the season. Williams, a third-year back, avoided starting the season on injured reserve after he recovered from an ACL tear. However, in his first six games, he ran for 63-272-0 (4.3 YPC).

During Week 8’s victory over the Chiefs, Williams began to play to every fantasy manager’s expectation after being selected in the sixth and seventh rounds. Although he only managed 3.1 yards per carry while rushing 27 times for 85 yards, his 30 touches were 12 more than his previous season high of 18, which he saw in Week 7 against the Packers. Despite this, his efficiency was still lacking.

The Broncos are not going to run the ball forty times like they did in Week 8. Seemingly riding a ground-heavy attack to victory, Sean Payton and company tried to keep their 29th-ranked defence off the field for as long as possible. However, Williams could see a lot of work in the passing even in games with a poor game script.

Week 8’s victory over the Chiefs was the beginning of everything fantasy managers had hoped for when selecting Williams in the sixth and seventh rounds. His 30 touches were 12 more than his previous season high of 18, which he saw in Week 7 against the Packers, but his efficiency was still lacking as he only managed 3.1 YPC while rushing 27 times for 85 yards.

The Broncos cannot be expected to rush the ball forty times as they did in Week 8. In an apparent attempt to keep his 29th-ranked defence off the field as long as possible, Sean Payton and company rode a ground-heavy attack to victory. Even in games with a weak game script, Williams could still see a lot of improvement in the passing

Williams will have more time to recover as the Broncos prepare for their bye week before hosting the Bills on Monday Night Football in Week 10. After a sluggish start, fantasy managers who stuck with Williams might soon see a high-end return on their investment.

White Rachaad (TB)
Let me be the first to point out that, if you haven’t noticed already, Rachaad White has been channelling his best Alvin Kamara impression for the past two weeks. White is averaging less than four yards per carry this season, much like Kamara, and neither player has shown promise in more complex rushing metrics. However, both are outclassing their rivals in the air. Here’s a brief comparison of the two for the year in

Williams will have more time to rest as the Broncos prepare for their bye week, which begins in Week 10, when they play the Bills on Monday Night Football. Williams had a slow start, but fantasy managers who stuck with him could soon see a high-end return on their investment.

TB Rachaad White
Let me be the first to point out that for the past two weeks, Rachaad White has been channelling his best Alvin Kamara impression, in case you haven’t noticed already. Similar to Kamara, White has not performed well in advanced rushing metrics this season, averaging less than four yards per carry. However, both are using the air to dominate their opponents. A brief comparison between the two for the year in

With 39 receptions, Kamara leads all running backs; White’s 29 receptions are third only to Christian McCaffrey and Kamara, who have combined for an absurd 44 targets in five games. White also has the third-most routes run of any running back with 197.

White’s difficulties in the running game go far beyond his potential as a runner. The Buccaneers offence leads the league in stuff rate (54.7 percent) and ranks 30th in yards before contact per attempt (0.71) despite the fact that he is by no means an elite ball carrier. The closest the Bucs can get to a quality rushing game is when they dump the ball off to White, which is good news for fantasy managers.

With a bad game script against the Bills in Week 8, White had his second-highest snap share total of the season (80.6%). But what mattered more were his seven targets. With those seven targets, White surpassed his previous season high of six, which he had set in Week 7 against the Falcons.

Jonathan Taylor’s season average of 5.9 yards per touch, which is the third-highest total among running backs with at least 50 touches, is matched by White’s YPT total over the last two weeks.

White and the Buccaneers seem to be operating under a PPR scheme, and they plan to keep it up against the Texans in Week 9. Houston has given up the sixth-most opponents’ rushing attempts per game (5.6).

After the Panthers’ Week 7 bye, Miles Sanders returned to full health. The seasoned running back’s shoulder injury kept him out of action in Week 6, but in Week 8, it didn’t really matter because he played well behind Chuba Hubbard and only saw two extra snaps than Raheem Blackshear.

Hubbard was clearly the preferred option after rushing for 19-88-1 prior to the team’s bye week, even though he struggled in the victory over the Texans, only managing 15 rushes for 28 yards and two receptions for 26 yards.

Hubbard is difficult to trust because he plays for an offence that is ranked 27th in yards per game (284.6) and 25th in points per game (18.1). Our fantasy players should ideally be on ball-moving offences, but

Miles Sanders recovered well from the Panthers’ Week 7 bye. The seasoned running back missed Week 6 due to a shoulder injury, but in Week 8, his condition was not a concern as he performed admirably in behind Chuba Hubbard and saw just two extra snaps than Raheem Blackshear.

After rushing for 19-88-1 prior to the team’s bye week, Hubbard was obviously the preferred option even though he struggled in the victory over the Texans, only managing 15 rushes for 28 yards and two receptions for 26 yards.

Hubbard is untrustworthy, especially considering that his team ranks 27th in yards per game (284.6) and 25th in points per game (18.1). Ideally, our fantasy players would be on ball-moving offences, but

In terms of early-down pass percentage (53%) and pass frequency over expectations (negative two percent), the Panthers are mediocre as a team. On the other hand, the Panthers’ first game under offensive coordinator Thomas Brown’s play-calling, saw a night and day difference from the conservative play-calling of Frank Reich, with an early-down pass rate of 67.5 percent and a PFOE of six percent.

Even though it’s only one game, these results were achieved in a competitive match, which might indicate that the Panthers will adopt a more pass-heavy strategy and that Hubbard will have additional targets. The Panthers running backs are averaging 6.4 targets per game as a unit, which is the 11th highest average among all teams in the league. Sanders has achieved 56% of those goals, but they could

The Panthers’ collective early-down pass percentage (53%) and pass frequency over expectations (negative two percent) are mediocre. But in the Panthers’ first game under offensive coordinator Thomas Brown’s play-calling, they had an early-down pass rate of 67.5 percent and a PFOE of six percent, which was a stark contrast to the team’s conservative play-calling under Frank Reich.

These numbers are only from one game, but they were obtained in a competitive game, which may indicate that the Panthers will adopt a more pass-heavy strategy and that Hubbard will have more targets. With an average of 6.4 targets per game, the Panthers running backs rank 11th in the league. Although Sanders has achieved 56% of those goals, they

Against a Colts defence that allows the 13th-highest EPA per rush attempt (-0.083) and 124 rush yards per game, Hubbard is a compelling Week 9 option. They have given up the most fantasy points per game (31.6) to opposing running backs over the past five weeks. Hubbard has a clear path to fantasy success this weekend, but it will be difficult to trust him as anything more than an RB3.

I’ve never been a big fan of Jerome Ford. Conversely, I’ve been a big fan of Pierre Strong ever since the Patriots selected him out of South Dakota State in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draught.

In the first half of last week’s loss to the Seahawks, Strong and Kareem Hunt performed significantly better than Ford, which may have been related to the ankle injury he sustained in Week 8 or something else entirely. After two quarters, Hunt had 20 snaps to Strong’s 14 and Ford had played on just three. In the second half, Ford had the most snaps (20), followed by Strong with 10. However, I was interested in Strong’s usage and unexpected playing time.

A dynamic playmaker bragging

Jerome Ford has never really appealed to me. Conversely, since the Patriots selected Pierre Strong from South Dakota State in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draught, I have been a big fan of his.

Strong and Kareem Hunt played much better than Ford in the first half of last week’s loss to the Seahawks, regardless of whether this was because of the ankle injury he sustained in Week 8 or something else entirely. Through two quarters, Hunt had taken 20 snaps to Strong’s 14, while Ford had taken just three. Ford had the most snaps (20) in the second half, followed by Strong (10), but what really stood out to me was Strong’s usage and unexpected playing time.

A dynamic facilitator bragging

Ford’s season average is 4.4 yards per carry (YPC) but his per-touch performance has been very boom-or-bust, in typical “he can’t keep getting away with it” fashion. Ford has seen 46.5 percent of his rushing yards come on, the second-highest percentage of any running back among those with 10 or more rush attempts per game. On the surface, it sounds fantastic, but upon closer inspection, Ford is only averaging 2.3 YPC during his non-breakaway runs. He has the third-highest stuff rate of these 40 eligible running backs, at 58.6 percent.

In any case, Strong’s non-breakaway runs are averaging 3.4 yards per carry.

Ford usually doesn’t get much done on his rush attempts unless he starts a big run. It’s possible that his habit of slowing down the offence contributed to Ford’s surprising first-half looks.

Strong managed five carries to Ford’s eight in the second half, indicating that the Browns did not completely turn the tide against him. Strong is still a great deep bench stash for teams that can afford to use him, but it’s far too early to start him in lineups.

Before Week 8, I was worried about D’Onta Foreman because, even though he had a strong two weeks where he had accumulated 187 yards and three touchdowns on 35 touches (5.3 YPT), a hot streak wouldn’t mean much with Roschon Johnson back.

Following a concussion in Week 5, Johnson made his Bears debut in his first game back. He led the backfield in snap share (36.5%) and had 10 opportunities compared to Foreman’s 11. In case you missed it, Johnson, Khalil Herbert, and Travis Homer were the Bears’ preferred backfield in Weeks 2 through 5, with Foreman serving as a healthy scratch. With the exception of Week 1, Foreman did not see the field or get a chance to play until injuries really took hold.

When healthy, Johnson was the go-to passing-down back with an average of 4.7 yards per carry. Despite missing about 2.5 games this season, he leads all Bears running backs with 14 receptions.

Despite having a great two weeks, Foreman’s near-50/50 split with Johnson probably doesn’t look good for him moving forward. Going into the season, Johnson was one of my favourite rookie running backs, so I’m trying to stash him wherever I can in the hopes that his role will expand.

What We Discovered: Key insights from Ohio State football’s Day and Knowles press conference

When Ohio State plays Rutgers on Saturday, it will be shorthanded for the second straight road game for the Buckeyes.

Running back Miyan Williams will miss the remainder of the season due to a knee injury, according to coach Ryan Day. Safety Lathan Ransom, who suffered a lower leg or foot injury in last week’s 24-10 victory at Wisconsin, is also almost certainly going to miss time.

During Day’s weekly press conference with defensive coordinator Jim Knowles, the main focus was on updates regarding injuries. Here are five lessons we discovered:

Egbuka expected back—really—Day has been upbeat in recent weeks regarding Emeka Egbuka’s comeback, but the receiver has remained sidelined. Day essentially assured fans following the Wisconsin game that Egbuka would play Rutgers, and it appears he will.

Day stated, “We anticipate him practising this week.” “He was available for Saturday’s game. We simply didn’t think he was in the right place. Many of the guys stepped up to support him. Today, we hope to work a full day and a full

At Day’s weekly press conference with defensive coordinator Jim Knowles, the main conversation point was injury updates. Here are the five things we discovered:

Although Day has been optimistic about Emeka Egbuka’s return over the past few weeks, the receiver has remained sidelined. Egbuka is expected back. Day virtually guaranteed following the Wisconsin game that Egbuka would play Rutgers, and it appears that Egbuka will fulfil his promise.

Day stated, “This week, we anticipate him to practise.” He could make it to the Saturday game. We simply thought he wasn’t quite where he ought to be. Many of the guys stood up for him. We hope to work a full day today and a full

Returning Egbuka would relieve some of the pressure on Marvin Harrison Jr., who has been the target of opposing defences with 22 receptions for 303 yards and three touchdowns in five games.

Day remarked, “He’s working hard.” He’s a fantastic young man. With his current mindset, he is eager to play. He’s made people yank him back. That’s the mindset you should adopt. When players are fighting to get back on the pitch, that’s a great sign for your team.

During the Wisconsin game, quarterback Kyle McCord was observed wincing and limping on the sidelines from what appeared to be a left ankle injury. Despite the fact that he only managed two interceptions, he gave it his all.

Day said, “You’re going to have bumps and bruises and things this time of year.” “There is a distinction between injuries and hurts. He is yet another illustration of a guy who persevered and displayed toughness during that game.

That’s what will occur once November arrives. Playing depth is necessary, and the guys need to work through those issues.

It was anticipated that backup Devin Brown would miss at least a few weeks due to an ankle sprain sustained during the Penn State game. Day stated that Brown was expected to return to practise on Tuesday, but he did not indicate if he would be available for the game against Rutgers.

During the second half of the game against Wisconsin, Ransom hobbled to the sidelines due to a non-contact injury. After being carried to the locker room, he was subsequently observed wandering alone along the sidelines.

In Knowles’ safety-driven defence, which he leads with Josh Proctor and Sonny Styles, Ransom has been a key member of Ohio State’s defence this season.

About Ransom’s apparent foot injury, Day stated, “We’ll probably have an update later in the week.” “We’re still attempting to determine when that will happen. Though not entirely superior, our idea is still superior.

Jordan Hancock, the cornerback, and Styles have both been used in the nickel spot. Both are adaptable. When Denzel Burke missed the Penn State game, Hancock performed admirably at the outside corner position. Styles has taken on

With a non-contact injury sustained against Wisconsin in the second half, Ransom hopped to the sidelines. He was carried to the locker room, but afterwards he was observed alone on the sidelines.

Along with Josh Proctor and Sonny Styles, Ransom has been a key member of Ohio State’s safety-driven defence unit this season under Knowles.

About Ransom’s injury, which looked to be to his foot, Day stated, “We’ll probably have an update later in the week.” We’re currently working to determine when that will happen. Though it’s not conclusive, our idea is unquestionably superior.

In the nickel spot, Styles and Jordan Hancock, the cornerback, have been used. They are both adaptable. Denzel Burke missed the Penn State game, but Hancock filled in admirably at outside corner. Styles has engaged in

“I don’t have any concerns about it because they’ve both proven themselves in a lot of different dimensions,” Knowles remarked.

The offensive line is advancing.
Though inconsistent, Day claimed that Ohio State’s offensive line improved against Wisconsin. TreVeyon Henderson amassed 162 yards of running.

See also: Cheap shot? This is the play against Notre Dame that caused injury to Ohio State running back TreVeyon Henderson.

He declared, “I think we made progress this week.” We’ll see where we end up, but I felt like we ran the ball off the ball better. I felt that the movement was good. Tre put up a strong running effort, and that combination really improved our running efficiency.

However, it wasn’t perfect. Pro Football Focus reports that McCord was hit four times and under pressure eight times. Upon

Knowles stated, “I don’t have any concerns about it because they’ve both proven themselves in a lot of different dimensions.”

Attack line is moving forward.
Although Day claimed it improved against Wisconsin, Ohio State’s offensive line is still unreliable. 162 yards were gained by TreVeyon Henderson.

Further: Cheap shot? TreVeyon Henderson, an Ohio State running back, was hurt during this play against Notre Dame.

We made progress this week, he said. We’ll see where we end up, but I felt we did a better job of running off the ball. We had good movement, in my opinion. Tre ran hard, and the two factors together really improved our running efficiency.

It wasn’t perfect, though. McCord was hit four times and under eight pressure, according to Pro Football Focus. As on

Day stated that if centre Carson Hinzman’s snap hadn’t been low, the play might have been successful. McCord turned his back on the defence because of that. Instead of taking a sack, he threw the ball away.

“You can see the flaws in every play,” Day remarked. “There’s enough for everyone. Undoubtedly, there are some positive aspects as well. There are certain things that need improvement. But overall, there was a lot of progress, especially in the run game. There are certain aspects of the pass game that we absolutely need to improve.

Knowles’ defence did not take a victory lap just yet, despite continuing to play excellently against Wisconsin.

“Now is not the time to rejoice,” he declared.

The Buckeyes, who never let up more than 17 points in a game, are ranked second in the nation for scoring defence (10.0 points per game). With 260 yards permitted, they are ranked fourth.

Knowles observed, “You’re constantly emphasising the things you’re doing well and fixing the things you can improve on.” Yes, praise is in order. Bravo, bravo, accurate.

“I think it helps when you have more positives to highlight.”

Check out our podcasts to learn more about Ohio State football news.

Originally published on The Columbus Dispatch, this article Highlights from Ohio State football’s press conference: What We Learned

Raiders bench Garoppolo and attempt to proceed under Antonio Pierce, their acting coach.

(AP) HENDERSON, Nev. The Las Vegas Raiders underwent a series of changes on Wednesday; interim coach Antonio Pierce will need to sort them all out and attempt to save the season.

The team let go of offensive coordinator Mick Lombardi, promoted quarterbacks coach Bo Hardegree to offensive coordinator, and started quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo in favour of Aidan O’Connell the day after firing general manager Dave Ziegler and coach Josh McDaniels.

Pierce, who was a member of the 2007 Super Bowl winning team and started all 16 games while playing for the New York Giants from 2005 to 2009, will play his first game against them on Sunday at home.

Deflecting any personal significance from playing the Giants, Pierce, 45, stated that the game was too crucial for the Raiders (3-5) to be concerned about

The Arnold, Nevada, (AP) — On Wednesday, the Las Vegas Raiders continued to experience changes. Antonio Pierce, the team’s interim coach, must now attempt to make sense of it all and save the season.

Coach Josh McDaniels and general manager Dave Ziegler were fired by the team the day before, and Aidan O’Connell took Jimmy Garoppolo’s starting job as starting quarterback. Bo Hardegree, the quarterbacks coach, was promoted to offensive coordinator and Mick Lombardi was let go.

Sunday’s first game will take place at home against the New York Giants, where Pierce was a member of the 2007 Super Bowl winning team and started all 16 games while playing for them from 2005 to 2009.

Insinuating that the game was too crucial for the Raiders (3-5) to be concerned about any personal significance, Pierce, 45

Champ Kelly, who was elevated from assistant general manager to interim general manager, attended the press conference with Pierce. Kelly, 43, promised that he would not claim to be an expert and that he would learn from his inevitable mistakes.

“Despite the unfavourable circumstances, challenges always present opportunities,” Kelly stated. Accepting this position as the Las Vegas Raiders’ temporary general manager makes me even more proud. I’m incredibly excited and eager to start working.

“You believed in me,” he said, thanking the Raiders management. I am grateful for this chance. I swear to you that I won’t waste this opportunity.

The biggest on-field alteration is at quarterback. Garoppolo was signed by Las Vegas for $72.75 million over three years during the offseason, but as he

Champ Kelly, the newly promoted assistant general manager turned interim general manager, met with reporters alongside Pierce. The 43-year-old Kelly promised to learn from his mistakes and not claim to be an expert in everything.

“There is always opportunity in difficulties, even though the circumstances are not ideal,” Kelly stated. “I am incredibly honoured to take on this role as the Las Vegas Raiders’ temporary general manager.” I’m very happy and eager to start working.

“For believing in me,” he thanked the Raiders management. I appreciate this chance. You have my word that I won’t waste this chance.

At quarterback, there has been the most noticeable on-field change. Garoppolo was signed by Las Vegas in the offseason for a three-year contract worth $72.75 million, but as he

Garoppolo might have been benched even if McDaniels hadn’t been fired after missing two deep passes to a wide-open Davante Adams and tossing an interception into the end zone in Monday night’s 26-14 loss to Detroit.

The Raiders management and coaches now have the opportunity to assess whether O’Connell, who was selected this year in the fourth round out of Purdue, is the long-term solution. The change in coaches ensured that there would be a change at quarterback. If not, Las Vegas will attempt to locate that player in the quarterback-heavy draught the following year.

In a Week 4 loss against the Los Angeles Chargers, O’Connell started just one game this season and lost two fumbles, threw an interception, and was sacked seven times. He performed well.

Had McDaniels not been fired, Garoppolo might have been benched anyhow after missing two deep passes to a wide-open Davante Adams and tossing an interception into the end zone in Monday night’s 26-14 loss to Detroit.

A quarterback change was inevitable due to the coaching change, and now Raiders management and coaches can assess whether Purdue quarterback O’Connell, who was selected in the fourth round this year, is the long-term solution. If not, Las Vegas’s quarterback-heavy draught the following year will attempt to locate that player.

O’Connell made one start this season, but in a Week 4 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers, he was sacked seven times, lost two fumbles, and threw an interception. He was a proficient player.

Kelly remarked, “The guys are pulling together for him.” “They’re thrilled that he will have the chance.”

Hardegree, who takes over for Lombardi as coordinator and McDaniels as play-caller, will provide guidance to O’Connell.

Pierce remarked, “We’re going to start a young quarterback; we have to protect him.” “We did not adequately protect him on our previous outing. We failed to defend the football. Return to playing the way you play—where you impose your will and play with genuine intent—for our entire offence, turnover-free football. Guys, you have the skill to do that.

Pierce brought that former linebacker’s presence on Wednesday, and Kelly said he experienced the same thing when Pierce spoke to the team in the morning.

At Tuesday’s trade deadline, the Raiders did not make any moves.

“The guys are supporting him,” Kelly remarked. “They can’t wait for him to have this chance.”

Hardegree, who steps in for Lombardi as coordinator and McDaniels as play-caller, will be O’Connell’s mentor.

Pierce stated, “We have to protect our young quarterback who we plan to start.” “We didn’t really protect him on our last outing. The football was not shielded by us. Resuming your style of play where you impose your will and play with genuine intent is important for our offence, turnover-free football. With skill, you guys can pull that off.

Pierce brought that presence of a former linebacker on Wednesday, and Kelly said he felt the same way when Pierce spoke to the team in the morning.

During Tuesday’s trade deadline, the Raiders did nothing.

Similar circumstances occurred in Las Vegas two years prior when Jon Gruden left the team five games into the season due to discovered offensive emails. The Raiders used a late surge to qualify for the playoffs after interim coach Rich Bisaccia was able to win over the players.

“I believe I captured everyone’s interest and their gaze during the team meeting,” Pierce remarked. I’m not a verbose person. I won’t write an essay for you or give you a dialogue. I make no nonsense statements. Black and white are used. You are aware of my feelings when I leave the house.

Bears Overreactions: Did the Bears mistreat Justin Fields?

Bears Overreactions: Did the Bears mistreat Justin Fields? first broadcast on NBC Sports Chicago

With a humiliation at the hands of the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 8, the Bears witnessed the opposite of the Tyson Bagent experience. The Chargers’ all-star defence appeared to overwhelm the undrafted rookie quarterback early in the game.

The end result was a heartbreaking 30–13 defeat.

This carried over into the NFL trade deadline, which started when cornerback Jaylon Johnson of the Bears was granted authorization to pursue a trade. One major move made by general manager Ryan Poles was the trade of defensive end Montez Sweat to the Washington Commanders in exchange for a 2024 second-round pick. Nevertheless, Poles demanded a hefty sum of money to relocate Johnson, and the deadline passed without the 24-year-old corner changing his address.

On Sunday, Bagent will start for the third time in his career when the Bears take on the New Orleans Saints. Justin Fields, the starting quarterback, is still regarded as week-to-week even though his thumb dislocation recovery is “progressing.”

This week’s mailbag starts with QB 1’s situation, or more crucially, how he feels about his position with the team:

I listened to the game’s commentary again, and I admit that parts of it were peculiar. The statement made by Chris Collinsworth that the Fields should “study” Bagent was the one that most offended people.

Though I’m not sure if this is a whisper campaign to lessen the pain of Fields’ departure.

When Trevor Siemian started for him in Week 12 of last season, Fields said he studied him and acknowledged there were things he learned that he tried to apply to his game. It’s obvious to all of us that Fields is more gifted than Siemian and Bagent combined. That’s not to say Fields can’t gain insight from observing how the offence functions under a different head coach.

After listening to the game’s commentary again, I admit that some of it was odd. The comment that most offended people was Chris Collinsworth’s assertion that the Fields needed to “study” Bagent.

I’m not sure if this is a whisper campaign meant to lessen the pain of Fields’ departure, though.

When Trevor Siemian started for him in Week 12 of the previous season, Fields acknowledged that he studied him and that he tried to apply some of the lessons he learned to his play. It is universally acknowledged that Fields is more gifted than both Siemian and Bagent. Yet, Fields can still gain from observing how the offence functions when it is led by someone else.

Poles, offensive coordinator Luke Getsy, and head coach Matt Eberflus weren’t, in my opinion, whispering anything to the Sunday Night Football crew to help them break their ties to Fields or place the blame on him. Given their desire to market Bagent’s unique story to a broad audience, I believe that many of these items were likely casual remarks made by the crew during pre-production meetings that they took note of and ran with.

I won’t argue with the fact that this coaching staff has had difficulty developing an offence that revolves around Fields’ strengths. Fields’ remarks, which he later withdrew, made that pretty evident early in the season.

It has been a massive failure and probably will be

Poles, head coach Matt Eberflus, and offensive coordinator Luke Getsy weren’t, in my opinion, whispering anything to the Sunday Night Football crew to help them break their relationship with Fields or assign blame to him. Considering how eager the crew was to market Bagent’s unique story to a general public, I believe that many of these items were likely casual remarks made during pre-production meetings that they took note of and used.

I won’t contest that this staff has had difficulty developing Fields as a coach or structuring the offence around his strengths. Fields’ remarks from earlier in the season, which he later withdrew, made that pretty obvious.

Largely speaking, it has failed and most likely

Without a doubt, Sweat is among the few Bears players who has the potential to start for a real Super Bowl contender. While opinions on Darnell Wright and Teven Jenkins are still pending, I would rank DJ Moore, Jaylon Johnson, Tremaine Edmunds, TJ Edwards (who did this last year), and Eddie Jackson as the other players.

However, I don’t believe Sweat should change the Bears’ draught strategy. The Bears still have a good chance of selecting either Drake Maye or Caleb Williams in the first round. However, I’m not sure if the Bears will win enough games to have their own pick fall between the 4-6 range with the addition of Sweat, Johnson’s retention, and Fields’ anticipated return. In the end, the Panthers

Without a doubt, one of the few Bears players who could start for a real Super Bowl contender is Sweat. While it’s still early to judge Darnell Wright and Teven Jenkins, I’d put DJ Moore, Jaylon Johnson, Tremaine Edmunds, Eddie Jackson, and TJ Edwards (who did last year) as the others.

Sweat shouldn’t, in my opinion, change the Bears’ draught strategy, though. The Bears are still likely to be in position to select one of Drake Maye or Caleb Williams in the draught. But I’m not sure if the Bears will win enough games to have their own pick fall between the fourth and sixth picks, especially with Sweat joining the team, Johnson remaining, and Fields expected to return. At last, the Panthers

In that scenario, the Bears should select the best player available and address the trenches where Williams, Maye, and Marvin Harrison Jr. are no longer there if they wind up with, say, the No. 4 and No. 6 picks.

Fields’ future with the team is unaffected by the Sweat trade, in my opinion. Rather than waiting for free agency or the draught, the Bears paid to acquire an elite edge rusher during their rebuilding period.

Fields may yet make a full recovery from his injury and put together a strong run of passes that demonstrate his steady growth as a passer and convince the Bears to select his fifth-year option.

However, considering how this season has gone, it appears as though they are headed towards an uncertain future in which they will either trade him or decide not to exercise the fifth-year option, giving him a contract season to prove his mettle against genuine competition in camp.

Positioning of the draught and other factors will influence

Fields’ future with the team is unaffected, in my opinion, by the Sweat trade. During their rebuilding phase, the Bears paid for an elite edge rusher rather than waiting for a draught pick or free agency.

Fields has the potential to recover from his injury and have a strong run of passes that demonstrate his steady progress as a passer, which would encourage the Bears to select his fifth-year option.

Nevertheless, considering how this season has gone, it appears as though they are headed towards an uncertain future in which they will either trade him or decide not to exercise the fifth-year option, giving him a contract season to prove his mettle against genuine competition in camp.

Draught placement along with additional factors will influence

Apart from Darnell Wright and Jaquan Brisker, I believe that the draught selections have been somewhat inconsistent thus far.

It isn’t fair to evaluate a draught class until at least three years has passed.

Kyler Gordon is still, in my opinion, a good player who will get better in the slot. Despite his potential, Tyrique Stevenson has been the target of criticism this season. It’s been a difficult season, but he will grow and improve.

Zacch Pickens and Gervon Dexter haven’t performed up to par thus far, and Tyler Scott hasn’t contributed to the offence in the way I had anticipated. Scott’s problems, in my opinion, stem more from the Bears’ inability to identify their offensive identity. And He

Apart from Jaquan Brisker and Darnell Wright, I believe the draught selections have been a little inconsistent thus far.

Honestly, it’s impossible to evaluate a draught class fairly until at least three years have passed.

Kyler Gordon is still a talented player in my opinion, and he will get better in the slot. Although Tyrique Stevenson has shown promise, this season he has been consistently picked on. Although this has been a difficult season, he will grow and improve.

Tyler Scott hasn’t contributed to the offence in the way I had anticipated, and Gervon Dexter and Zach Pickens have both had underwhelming performances thus far. I believe that Scott’s problems stem more from the Bears’ inability to identify their offensive identity. For He

The drafting record of this regime has not been stellar. It’s one more reason why I’m okay with Sweat taking a second-round pick in exchange. He is a successful pass rusher. The Bears have no reason to think they would make that pick.

This is a good question, in my opinion, to address at the end.

Poles has no trouble spending short-term funds on roster busts, but in order to preserve flexibility, he wishes to handle long-term funds carefully and judiciously.

It’s a sensible strategy all around.

But when you constantly have a boundary you refuse to cross, that’s when you get into trouble.

Jaylon Johnson is an example worth using, and there’s not much reason the Bears can’t find a good enough number to sign him for the following four years. Johnson has complied with all of their requests since the new government took office. He has assimilated into the team, demonstrated his leadership in the locker room, and improved on the field.

I believe it would be wise to answer this query at the conclusion.

Poles wants to be prudent and disciplined with long-term money to maintain flexibility, but he has no problem spending short-term cash on roster busts.

Overall, it’s a sensible strategy.

However, the problem arises when you consistently have a boundary that you refuse to cross.

Utilising Jaylon Johnson as an example, there’s not much reason the Bears can’t figure out a way to keep him around for the next four years. Since the arrival of the new government, Johnson has complied with all of their requests. He has demonstrated that he is a part of the team culture, made progress on the field, led the locker room, and

In the NFL, his 37.3 passer rating allowed is third among all corners who have played at least 140 coverage snaps. His age is twenty-four.

What kind of message are you sending to the other guys in the locker room who were here when you arrived if you aren’t going to pay him? Not that it matters, but why are you okay? compensating Cole Kmet, a top-10 tight end, $50 million over four years, and failing to develop Johnson, a top-10 corner, $65 million over four years.

I can understand Johnson’s position if he wants to reset the market and demands more than $19 million. However, that is not how I see the circumstances.

You have to eventually give your young, gifted players something. If not, it’s going to

As I mentioned before, theoretically, I get the strategy. However, it can’t be a one-way street. Every circumstance ought to be unique. Some people might be persuaded to pay Roquan Smith nothing by you. Doing the same with Johnson is going to be challenging.

Steve Kerr, the coach of the Golden State Warriors, recalls a “terrifying” encounter with Bob Knight.

Prior to Wednesday’s game at Chase Centre in San Francisco, coaches Mike Brown of the Kings and Steve Kerr of the Golden State Warriors discussed their feelings regarding Bob Knight’s passing.

Before discussing Kerr’s “terrifying” experience with the 83-year-old firebrand college basketball coach, Kerr first discussed Knight’s legacy as a Hall of Fame coach who won three NCAA titles at Indiana.

“It’s clear that coach Knight had a significant influence on the game,” Kerr stated at his press conference prior to kickoff. In my early years, he truly took the lead as a coach when John Wooden retired. Coach Knight then garnered attention for both positive and negative reasons, but he had a profound influence on

Before Wednesday’s game at Chase Centre in San Francisco, coaches of the Golden State Warriors, Steve Kerr, and the Kings, Mike Brown, exchanged thoughts on Bob Knight’s passing.

Before discussing Knight’s legacy as a Hall of Fame coach who won three NCAA titles at Indiana, Kerr spoke about his “terrifying” encounter with the fiery college basketball coach, who passed away earlier in the day at the age of 83.

During his pregame press conference, Kerr stated, “Obviously, coach Knight had a huge impact on the game.” When John Wooden retired, he was by far the most important coach in my early years. Coach Knight then became the talk of the town for a variety of reasons, both positive and negative, but he had a huge influence on

Kerr pointed out that Knight’s fiery temper was nothing like that of Lute Olson, his college coach at Arizona.

“I had an entirely different experience than my fellow Indiana University student-athletes because he and coach Olsen could not have been more different, but I did meet coach Knight,” Kerr remarked. We happened to cross paths in 1986. He was providing television commentary while I was competing in the (FIBA) World Championship.

After our defeat in a match, Knight showed up for practise. He drew me aside and essentially launched into an angry tirade. He went on a rant and I had never met him before. “Take those bleeping bleep teammates of yours and bleep bleep,” he said.

Known for his explosive temper, Kerr pointed out that Knight was nothing like his college coach at Arizona, Lute Olson.

Kerr stated, “I had a completely different experience than my fellow college student-athletes at Indiana because he and coach Olsen could not have been more opposite, but I did come across coach Knight.” “In 1986, we happened to cross paths. While I participated in the (FIBA) World Championship, he provided television commentary.

Knight showed up to our practise after we had lost a game. He drew me aside and proceeded to go on an absolute rant. He launched into a tirade, and I had never met him before. He said, “I want you to grab those bleeping bleep teammates you have.”

Although Brown claimed not to have met Knight, he thought about playing for him at Indiana before deciding to enrol at University of San Diego.

As crazy as it sounds, there was a chance Brown was going to go walk on there, but that was it. His junior college coach, Tom Bennett, was friendly with Knight. I didn’t really interact with him much when I was growing up, but I do want to express my sympathies to his friends and family. Whether you choose to see it that way or not, he undoubtedly left his mark on the game in a variety of ways.

All purported images of Connor Stalions from the CMU sidelines during the Michigan State match.

Was Michigan assistant coach Connor Stalions really suspended, as the mysterious man on the Central Michigan sidelines during the football team’s season opener against Michigan State might have been?

This week, pictures of a man on the Central Michigan sidelines during the team’s opening game against MSU on September 1st, resembling the Michigan football staffer at the centre of the Wolverines’ alleged sign-stealing scandal, have taken centre stage in the college football world.

The man in question had a pass marked “VB,” which stands for Visitors Bench, and was sporting a Central Michigan hat, sunglasses, and team polo.

An investigation was prompted by the picture’s striking similarity to broadcast screenshots of Stalions.

After confirming that it is aware of the image, Central Michigan launched an inquiry. A Michigan representative declined to comment because the NCAA investigation is still ongoing.

After the Central Michigan Chippewa’s 37-31 victory over Northern Illinois on Tuesday night, head coach Jim McElwain addressed the pictures with the media and promised that the university would investigate the man’s identity.

“We obviously are aware of a picture floating around with the sign-stealer guy,” McElwain stated. “Every effort is being made by our people to find the truth. In no manner, form, or aspect do I support it.

“I am aware that none of the passes that were released had his name on them. We will simply continue to trace it back and back.

Central Michigan launched an investigation after confirming that it is aware of the image. Due to the ongoing NCAA investigation, a Michigan representative chose not to comment.

Jim McElwain, the head coach of Central Michigan, addressed the images with the media on Tuesday night after the Chippewa team defeated Northern Illinois 37-31. He said the university would investigate the man’s identity.

“We obviously are aware of a picture floating around with the sign-stealer guy,” said McElwain. “Everything they can to find the truth is being done by our people. I most definitely do not support it in any manner.

“I am aware that not a single pass that was released had his name on it. We’ll simply continue to follow the trail backward.

The game’s Fox Sports 1 broadcast is the primary source of the man’s emerging photos.

While the action is happening, you can see someone who looks a lot like Stalions standing with other coaches and players and holding a clipboard in the screenshots from the broadcast that are below.

Another social media video of the broadcast shows the man in question appearing to turn, pull down his hat, and duck his head when the camera pans to his section of the CMU sideline.

Later on Tuesday, The Athletic was able to get additional images of the unidentified man from a variety of viewpoints. These images show the man, who is purportedly Stalions, holding a clipboard and having fun on the Central Michigan sidelines.

Several former Michigan football players, including McElwain, who led the Wolverines as wide receiver coach in 2018, are on the coaching staff at Central Michigan. Both quarterbacks coach Jake Kostner and defensive backs coach Michael Zordich served in the same capacity for Michigan under head coach Jim Harbaugh for four years, from 2015 to 2018.

In the interim while the NCAA looks into whether or not the Wolverines were genuinely scouting potential opponents in person and using technology to do so, Michigan suspended the Stalions with pay. According to reports, he is the primary suspect in the case. He is accused of purchasing tickets to Wolverines opponents’ upcoming games and of sending others to record coaching staff signals in order to allegedly assist the team in interpreting plays.

Stalions became a full-time member of the Michigan coaching staff in May 2022. According to his since-deleted LinkedIn profile, the former Marine captain volunteered to help the Michigan football team from 2015 to 2022. He would travel from his station in California to Ann Arbour to support the coaching staff.

The Detroit Free Press first published this story, “All the purported photos of Connor Stalions on Central Michigan sideline.”

Ahead of the courts, the Michigan sign-stealing scandal faces the NCAA.

The fallout from the program’s sign-stealing scandal may reach the courts as the NFL considers barring University of Michigan head football coach Jim Harbaugh from working in the NFL if he is under NCAA suspension—a move that Harbaugh may contest.

The NCAA is investigating whether Michigan, which is ranked second, conducted in-person, off-campus scouting of teams that the Wolverines will face later in the same season. The 1994 NCAA bylaw 11.6.1 forbids this practise in general, but there are some exceptions, such as when scouting takes place at a conference or NCAA championship or when a potential opponent is taking part “in the same event at the same site.”

The NCAA is concerned that certain schools may suffer as a result of their inability to hire and send out scouts. There is a big disparity in football programmes’ athletic resources, such as their training facilities, health, and fitness levels, but one way to level the playing field is to restrict scouting.

Following the discovery of texts in which Connor Stalions, a Wolverines football analyst, purportedly admitted to sign-stealing, Michigan suspended the paid analyst last month. ESPN also claimed that Stalions hired third parties to film their upcoming opponents’ games.

If Stalions or anyone else associated with Michigan’s programme violates 11.6.1, the NCAA will investigate. The NCAA may rely on admissions data, witness accounts, and electronically accessible data, including direct messages, emails, and texts.

The NCAA does not have the authority to subpoena witnesses or pertinent third parties—like a cell phone or social media company that may have messages that implicate someone—to give sworn testimony or produce supporting documentation because it is a private organisation. This implies that a witness has less fear of facing legal repercussions when they lie or withhold information in order to protect themselves.

However, the NCAA retains the ability to use information and declarations that it gathers voluntarily in addition to its contractual authority to require member institutions—as well as employees of them—to assist with inquiries. In order to do this, it is said that the NCAA has requested access to the Stalions’ computer and other resources.

If Stalions or anyone else associated with Michigan’s programme violates 11.6.1, the NCAA will investigate. NCAA is able to

The NCAA cannot use a subpoena to compel a witness or pertinent third party—like a cell phone or social media company—to give sworn testimony or produce evidence because it is a private organisation. Additionally, a witness will have less fear of facing legal repercussions if they choose to fabricate testimony or withhold information in order to protect themselves.

The NCAA may, however, continue to rely on information and admissions it gathers through voluntary means and its contractual authority to compel member institutions—as well as employees of such institutions—to assist in inquiries. To that purpose, it has been reported that the NCAA has requested access to the Stalions’ computer and other resources.

If the Michigan programme or anyone associated with it violates 11.6.1, the NCAA will investigate. How can the NCAA