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Goff breaks NFL record as Lions beat Seahawks

Seattle Seahawks were beaten for the first time this season as Jared Goff starred in a 42-29 victory for the Detroit Lions.

Goff completed all 18 of his pass attempts, the most in an NFL game without an incompletion, including two for touchdowns.

The quarterback also scored his first career receiving touchdown.

"It's good when the ball doesn't hit the ground," Goff told ESPN.

"I wasn't sure [of the record during the game]. I was trying to remember if I had any incomplete passes. I couldn't quite tell, but I knew I had a chance."

The result leaves both teams on 3-1 for the season.

For the Seahawks, Geno Smith had 395 passing yards and 38 completions from 56 attempts - all career highs - with one touchdown pass and one interception.

The Lions, playing at home at Ford Field, led 21-7 at half-time thanks to two scores from Jahmyr Gibbs and one from David Montgomery.

The Seahawks rallied to move within one score of Detroit, but Goff found Jameson Williams for a 70-yard touchdown to make it 35-20 going into the final quarter.

Kenneth Walker III went for a 21-yard touchdown run to reduce the deficit early in the fourth quarter, but Goff picked out Amon-Ra St. Brown in the end zone to seal the victory.

Earlier, it was St. Brown who passed to Goff on a trick play for the quarterback's own touchdown.

The Lions remain second in the NFC North behind the undefeated Minnesota Vikings. Despite the defeat, the Seahawks still top the NFC West.

The Vikings and Super Bowl champions the Kansas City Chiefs are the only teams in the NFL with a perfect 4-0 record.

In Monday's other game, the Tennessee Titans beat the Miami Dolphins 31-12 for their first win of the season.

Nick Folk kicked five field goals while Tony Pollard and Tyjae Spears rushed for touchdowns at Hard Rock Stadium.

Titans quarterback Will Levis was replaced by Mason Rudolph in the first quarter after landing heavily on his shoulder and did not return.

Dolphins quarterback Tyler Huntley, deputising for the injured Tua Tagovailoa, went on a one-yard scoring run late in the game to end the Dolphins' run of 10 straight quarters without a touchdown.

The Titans stay third in AFC South ahead of the winless Jacksonville Jaguars. The Dolphins are bottom of AFC East on 1-3.

BBC
 
NFL suspends Bills linebacker Miller for four games

Two-time Super Bowl champion Von Miller has received a four-game suspension without pay for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy.

It comes after the Buffalo Bills linebacker turned himself into police in Dallas on 30 November 2023 after a warrant was issued for his arrest.

Police accused Miller of assaulting his pregnant girlfriend.

No charges were filed against Miller and the 35-year-old has always maintained his innocence, saying the allegations were "100% false".

The eight-time Pro Bowler was allowed to play while an investigation was conducted.

During the Bills' training camp in July he told reporters, external that he considered the case closed.

Miller has appeared in all four Bills games this season and has recorded three sacks.

He will be eligible to return on 28 October following the Bills' week eight game against the Seattle Seahawks.


BBC
 
Vikings hold on to deny Rodgers & Jets comeback London win

The Minnesota Vikings held on to claim a 23-17 win in London and deny Aaron Rodgers and the New York Jets a thrilling comeback victory.

The Vikings came into the game as one of just two unbeaten NFL teams - along with last season's Super Bowl winners the Kansas City Chiefs.

And they gave Rodgers, the Jets' legendary quarterback, a torrid time as they charged into a 17-0 lead in front of 61,139 at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

The Jets gave themselves hope right before half-time, before Rodgers threatened to lead the Jets back as the rain began to fall in north London.

The NFL's four-time Most Valuable Player found Garrett Wilson for a touchdown to cut the score to 20-17 with six minutes left.

Minnesota added a field goal, giving the Jets just over three minutes to march up the field and claim a game-winning touchdown.

But with 49 seconds remaining and the Jets edging towards Minnesota's endzone, Rodgers was intercepted for the third time in the game, allowing the Vikings to improve their record to 5-0 while the Jets dropped to 2-3.


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NFL London: Minnesota Vikings hold on for 23-17 win over Aaron Rodgers' New York Jets

The Minnesota Vikings hold on to claim a 23-17 win in London and deny Aaron Rodgers and the New York Jets a comeback victory.
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Anyone into college football? Remarkable thing happened over the weekend, Top 5 college teams lost lol.

Texas A&M beat Missouri lol
 
Chiefs beat Saints to continue unbeaten NFL start

The Kansas City Chiefs maintained their winning start to the NFL season with a 26-13 home victory against the New Orleans Saints.

The Chiefs and the Minnesota Vikings are the only two sides with 5-0 records.

Kareem Hunt's five-yard rushing touchdown helped the reigning champions into a 10-0 lead and the boot of Harrison Butker, who kicked four field goals in the game, always kept them in front on the scoreboard.

Rashid Shaheed caught a 43-yard touchdown pass from Derek Carr, who also found Foster Moreau from six yards in the fourth quarter to reduce the Saints' deficit to three points.

However, Xavier Worthy's three-yard run into the end zone ensured they fell to a third defeat in five outings this season.

Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes did not throw a touchdown pass but completed 28 of his 39 attempts for 331 yards.

The Chiefs have a bye week before travelling to face the San Francisco 49ers on 20 October in a rematch of Super Bowl 58 in February, which they won in overtime.

BBC
 
Williams stars as Bears maul Jaguars in London

Chicago's rookie quarterback Caleb Williams put on a show in London as he led the Bears to a 35-16 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday.

Williams was the number one pick in this year's draft and crossed the Atlantic for the second of the season's London games - and just the sixth appearance of what promises to be a glittering NFL career.

A crowd of 61,182 flocked to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium to see Williams go head-to-head with Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence, the number one pick of the 2021 draft.

And it was the 22-year-old Williams who came out on top, throwing four touchdown passes as the Bears tore to a third straight win, improving their overall record to 4-2.

Williams threw two touchdown passes to tight end Cole Kmet to give the Bears a 14-3 lead at half-time.

Then he threw two more on Chicago's first two possessions of the second half - both to Keenan Allen.

Lawrence, 25, replied by making two touchdown passes to Gabe Davis but the Jaguars never looked like mounting a fightback as they slipped to 1-5 for the season.

Williams, though, ended the day with some impressive figures. He made 23 of his 29 passes for a completion rate of 79.3% and 226 passing yards, plus added 56 rushing yards off just four carries.


BBC
 
Jackson shines and Detroit dominate Dallas

It was a Sunday of high scoring in week six of the NFL as Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson beat out Washington Commanders' young pretender Jayden Daniels in the feature game of the day.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers hung 51 points on the New Orleans Saints and the Detroit Lions stuck 47 on a demoralised Dallas Cowboys outfit who got humiliated at home yet again.

CJ Stroud's Houston Texans are rolling along at 5-1 after a third straight win, while Jordan Love's Green Bay Packers are also warming up nicely on both sides of the ball.

The Atlanta Falcons moved to 4-2 alongside the Pittsburgh Steelers as both took advantage of playing the struggling Carolina Panthers and Las Vegas Raiders respectively.


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NFL results & week six recap: Lamar Jackson beats Jayden Daniels and Detroit Lions dominate Dallas Cowboys

Lamar Jackson wins his match-up with Jayden Daniels, the Detroit Lions dominate the Dallas Cowboys, and the Buccaneers score 51 points in New Orleans.
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Jets slump to third successive loss against Bills

The Buffalo Bills piled further misery on the New York Jets with a 23-20 victory at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

The Jets were playing for the first time since head coach Robert Saleh was dismissed, but interim coach Jeff Ulbrich was unable to steady the ship.

Buffalo quarterback Josh Allen threw for two touchdowns and ran another to help his side to victory after two successive defeats.

"We found a way to win," Allen told ESPN.

"We got sloppy in the second half, we've got to find a way to put more points on the board, but it was a team victory."

Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers threw for 294 yards, with two touchdowns and an interception in a back-and-forth encounter.

Rodgers' efforts helped New York to a 10-7 lead after the first quarter but they trailed 20-17 at half-time, despite a stunning Hail Mary pass from the four-time NFL Most Valuable Player, which was claimed by Allen Lazard.

Greg Zuerlein kicked the Jets level in the third quarter, but Tyler Bass registered a field goal of his own with three minutes and 43 seconds remaining to deliver victory.

It is a third straight defeat for the Jets, who fall to third in the AFC East on 2-4, behind the Miami Dolphins and the Bills, who lead the division on 4-2.

BBC
 
Brady gets approval to buy Las Vegas Raiders stake

Seven-time Super Bowl winner Tom Brady said he was "incredibly humbled and excited" that the NFL's team owners had approved his investment in the Las Vegas Raiders.

The former quarterback, who retired for the second time in February 2023 after 23 seasons in the NFL, will take a 5% stake in the Raiders.

"Throughout my NFL career, I've learned that at its core, football is a game of teamwork, resilience and a relentless pursuit of excellence," Brady wrote in a statement.

"The Raiders franchise and the city of Las Vegas embody these same values, and I'm honoured to become part of that story."

Brady became a minority owner of English football club Birmingham City last year and is also part of the ownership group of the WNBA's Las Vegas Aces.

He needed 24 votes to get the go-ahead to buy into the Raiders, but NFL owners gave him a unanimous 32-0 approval at a meeting in Atlanta.

"I'm excited to contribute to the organisation in any way I can, honouring the Raiders' rich tradition while finding every possible opportunity to improve our offering to fans," added Brady.

"And most importantly, WIN football games."

Brady also works as a broadcaster on Fox's NFL coverage, and had restrictions placed on him in terms of access as his deal to buy into the Raiders went through - these will reportedly continue., external

The 47-year-old cannot attend in-person or online broadcast production meetings and is not allowed access to players, coaches or team facilities.

Brady can broadcast on games involving the Raiders but must follow NFL rules which ban criticism of other teams or officials.

"It's great that Tom Brady wants to invest in the NFL," said NFL commissioner Roger Goodell.

"He cares deeply about this game, he believes in its future, and I think that's just a signal about it."

BBC
 
Saints hammered by Broncos for fifth straight loss

Javonte Williams rushed for two touchdowns as the Denver Broncos inflicted a fifth successive defeat on the New Orleans Saints.

Wil Lutz also kicked four field goals as the Broncos claimed a 33-10 away win - their fourth victory in their past five games.

It marked a successful return to Louisiana for Broncos coach Sean Payton, who spent 15 years in charge of the Saints and led them to their only Super Bowl title, in 2009, and nine play-off appearances.

It is a third defeat in 11 days for the Saints, whose season has gone awry after winning their opening two matches.

It was a day for reminding Saints fans of better times gone by, as Super Bowl-winning quarterback Drew Brees was honoured at half-time following his introduction to the Saints Hall of Fame on Thursday.

By that point, the Saints were already trailing 16-3 and never looked like recovering in the final two quarters, with the Broncos having led throughout the match.

On the Broncos' second possession, Lutz kicked a 46-yard field goal for a 3-0 lead. The Saints then fumbled the ball straight back to Denver, and Lutz kicked another three points, from 32 yards.

The Broncos then marched 86 yards in eight plays, and Williams ran in his first touchdown for a 13-0 lead midway through the second quarter, with both sides exchanging field goals before the break.

On the Broncos' first possession of the second half, Lutz kicked a 38-yard field goal before Williams' five-yard touchdown run increased the lead to 26-3 at the end of the third quarter.

Cody Barton returned Spencer Rattler's fumble 52 yards for a touchdown to complete the Broncos' scoring, with a touchdown from Cedrick Wilson Jr in the final minutes providing scant consolation for Saints.

BBC
 
Jaguars fight back to beat Patriots at Wembley

The Jacksonville Jaguars came from behind to ease the pressure on under-fire coach Doug Pederson with a 32-16 win over the New England Patriots in London.

The Jaguars came into the game at Wembley with a 1-5 record after suffering a dismal defeat across town at Tottenham last Sunday.

The Patriots were also 1-5 and a record London crowd of 86,651 watched the six-time Super Bowl winners race into a 10-0 lead in the last of this season's three NFL games in the UK.

But quarterback Trevor Lawrence led the Jags to a morale-boosting fightback, with touchdowns by Brian Thomas Jr and Tank Bigsby putting them in front.

Parker Washington then scored a stunning 96-yard punt return less than two minutes before half-time and the Jags added a two-point conversion to give themselves a 22-10 lead.

The Patriots are in the midst of a major rebuild after legendary coach Bill Belichick left at the end of last season, and scored their second touchdown in the fourth quarter.

But Bigsby ran in his second score at the death to ensure the Jags will return to the US in high spirits, with both Pederson and Lawrence saying they "needed to win".

"We needed to know what winning felt like again," said coach Pederson.

"We've worked hard these last 10 days and it's a nice way to finish this trip. Now we've got to carry this back and do it again."


BBC
 
Jackson guides Ravens to fifth consecutive win

The Baltimore Ravens fought back from an early deficit to ease to their fifth successive victory with a 41-31 win against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Two-time Most Valuable Player Lamar Jackson threw for 281 yards and five touchdowns as he enhanced his bid to retain that title this season.

The Bucs took an early 10-0 lead but the Ravens replied with 34 unanswered points, with 17 in both the second and third quarters.

The pick of Jackson's passes came when he found Rashod Bateman with a 49-yard throw in the third quarter, while Justice Hill, Mark Andrews and Derrick Henry also scored touchdowns.

Running back Henry rushed for 169 yards - the fourth time in the past five matches he has surpassed the 100-yard mark.

The win takes the Ravens to the top of the AFC North while the Bucs did not lose any ground in the NFC South because of the Atlanta Falcons' defeat to the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday.

BBC
 
Broncos wide receiver Reynolds victim of shooting

Denver Broncos wide receiver Josh Reynolds was the victim of a shooting last week.

The 29-year-old was taken to hospital in the early hours of the morning on 18 October for minor injuries following the incident and then later released.

Reynolds was reportedly, external shot once in the left arm and once in the back of the head.

Denver Police confirmed two men were arrested shortly after the shooting and are being held under investigation for attempted first-degree murder and first-degree assault.


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Josh Reynolds: Denver Broncos confirm wide receiver was victim of shooting

Denver Broncos wide receiver Josh Reynolds was the victim of a shooting a week ago, the NFL team confirm.
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Daniels' Hail Mary heroics, Browns stun Ravens & Chiefs stay perfect

The NFL served up a sensational Sunday in week eight with one of the biggest shocks of the season, some big scoring and a host of dramatic late finishes.

A change in quarterback helped the lowly Cleveland Browns stun the red-hot Baltimore Ravens, while the Arizona Cardinals and the Green Bay Packers both won with the last kick of their games.

Jayden Daniels stole the show against fellow rookie Caleb Williams with a stunning last-gasp "once in a lifetime" Hail Mary as the Washington Commanders defeated the Chicago Bears.

The Detroit Lions hit a half century, the Kansas City Chiefs remained unbeaten and the San Francisco 49ers piled more pressure on old rivals the Dallas Cowboys.

The Baltimore Ravens were huge favourites against the Browns in Cleveland - but new quarterback Jameis Winston inspired them to a huge 29-24 upset victory with a touchdown pass to Cedric Tillman just 59 seconds from the end.

The Browns, who improved to two wins and six defeats, have a quality defence, but $230m quarterback Deshaun Watson had led an anaemic offence that failed to score more than 18 points or get 300 yards of offence in a game all season.

After Watson suffered a season-ending Achilles tendon injury last week, Winston managed to eclipse both those marks, passing for 334 yards and three touchdowns in his first NFL start since September 2022.

When Watson was injured last year, veteran Joe Flacco came off the couch and out of semi-retirement to lead the team to the play-offs. At 2-6 it is a long shot Winston can do the same but he has at least brought the team to life.

"You can look at the Browns’ record and say that’s a sorry team, but this is the NFL," said an upset Jackson after the Ravens slipped to 5-3.


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NFL Results & Week 8 recap: Jayden Daniels' Hail Mary, Browns upset Ravens & Chiefs still unbeaten

Jayden Daniels' dramatic Hail Mary helps Washington sink Chicago, while the Cleveland Browns cause a huge upset but nobody seems able to beat Kansas City.
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Austin stars as Steelers overcome Giants

The Pittsburgh Steelers made it three wins in a row after Calvin Austin III scored two touchdowns in a 26-18 win against the New York Giants on Monday.

The 25-year-old wide receiver scored the Steelers' first punt return touchdown in nearly five years during the third quarter.

The victory was tied up in the fourth quarter when quarterback Russell Wilson found Austin with his signature 'moon ball' throw.

"I try to give the guys a chance," Wilson said.

"They always do a good job of making me look halfway decent, and they have great plays.

"I've been definitely throwing it up to the moon for a long time, and let it come down and let them have a chance to make a great play."

With the scores locked at 9-9 at half-time, the Steelers went into the final quarter with a 16-9 lead.

Rookie running back Tyrone Tracy Jr got the Giants back in it with a 45-yard touchdown, but Steelers cornerback Beanie Bishop Jr sealed the win by intercepting on the Giants' final drive.

The win takes the Steelers to the top of the AFC North table, while the Giants are rooted to the bottom of the NFC East.

BBC
 
Wilson acrobatics inspire Jets to comeback win

Garrett Wilson made two spectacular touchdown catches as the New York Jets ended their five-game losing run with a 21-13 comeback win over the Houston Texans.

Star quarterback Aaron Rodgers was also influential, completing 22 of 32 passes for 211 yards and three touchdown passes as the Jets won for the first time since September.

It was also the Jets' first victory under interim coach Jeff Ulbrich, and moves them up to second in the AFC East.

The highlight was two acrobatic one-handed catches by Wilson in the third and fourth quarters.

His first take early in the third quarter levelled the scores. The second was even more impressive, Wilson leaping split-legged to meet Rodgers' 26-yard pass at the back of the end zone.

It was originally ruled an incomplete pass because Wilson did not get both feet down in the end zone, but the decision was reversed after a video review.

New York had trailed 7-0 at half-time following a sluggish opening. Rodgers completed just seven of 14 passing attempts for 32 yards - a first-half career low.

Rookie receiver Malachi Corley also had a touchdown ruled out after a video review showed his premature celebration caused him to drop the ball before the goal line.

Joe Mixon scored the only touchdown in reply for the Texans, who stay top of the AFC South despite a third defeat of the season.

BBC
 
McAtamney makes Giants NFL debut after GAA switch

Former Derry Under-20 GAA player Jude McAtamney made his NFL debut for the New York Giants in their 27-22 loss to the Washington Commanders on Sunday.

The 24-year-old from Swatragh was successful on both of his kick attempts, coming into the game for the first time with 12 minutes and 26 seconds remaining in the second quarter to add the extra point following Daniel Jones' touchdown throw to Chris Manhertz.

He would later strike a 31-yard field goal in the third quarter but, playing from behind, the 2-7 Giants would go for two-point conversions rather than attempt a kick after their next two touchdowns, failing to get into the end zone both times.

Prior to Sunday, McAtamney had spent the season on the Giants' practice squad, utilising the extra spot created by the International Player Pathway [IPP], but was elevated to the active roster for the week nine clash after previous kicker Greg Joseph was ruled out with an abdomen injury.

McAtamney is the first Irish-born placekicker to feature in a regular season NFL game since Dubliner Neil O'Donoghue represented the St Louis Cardinals during the 1985 season.

Dan Whelan, born in County Wicklow, has been the starting punter for the Green Bay Packers since the beginning of last season.


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New York Giants: Former Derry Under-20s player Jude McAtamney makes his NFL debut for New York Giants

Former Derry Under-20 GAA player Jude McAtamney is making his NFL debut for the New York Giants against the Washington Commanders on Sunday.
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Russian drone attack on Kyiv damages buildings, power lines, Ukraine says

A Russian air attack on Kyiv damaged buildings, roads and several power lines in the city, the capital's military administration said early on Sunday, after the military said air defences were trying to repel a drone attack.

There were no injuries in the attack, which came in waves and approached the city from different directions, Serhiy Popko, the head of the Kyiv military administration, said on the Telegram messaging app.

Popko said there was no fire, amending the administration's earlier account that emergency crews had been dispatched to the site of a fire in the Shevchenkivskyi district that it said had been caused by the attack.

It was Russia's second drone attack on Kyiv in as many nights. According to preliminary information, all of the attack drones were destroyed, Popko added. It was not immediately clear how many drones were launched at Kyiv.


 
Mahomes shrugs off injury as Chiefs win again

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes shook off a late injury scare as his side won 30-24 in overtime against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to continue their unbeaten start to the season.

Mahomes threw for 291 yards and three touchdowns without an interception while running back Kareem Hunt claimed a two-yard game-winning touchdown to take the Chiefs, playing at home, to 8-0.

Mahomes, a three-time Super Bowl winner, had rolled his ankle in a win over the Las Vegas Raiders last week and was left limping again after escaping pressure to send a touchdown pass to Samaje Perine that pulled the Chiefs level at 17-17 early in the fourth quarter.

The 29-year-old needed help to get to the sideline, but after treatment he returned to hit DeAndre Hopkins with a five-yard touchdown pass that put the reigning Super Bowl champions 24-17 up with four minutes and 17 seconds remaining.

Tampa Bay responded when quarterback Baker Mayfield controlled the game, leading to a touchdown from Ryan Miller and when the Bucs opted not to go for a two-point conversion and the lead, the extra-point kick tied it at 24-24.

Kansas City's final drive in regulation failed to yield anything, but they got the ball to start overtime with Mahomes guiding them to the game-winning score as the Bucs suffered a fourth defeat in their past five games.

Mahomes downplayed his ankle injury after the game, saying he expected to be ready when the Chiefs host the Denver Broncos on Sunday.

"You always fear the worst," he said. "But as I got some time it started feeling better. We've got a short week, but we'll rehab it up and I'll be ready to go next week."

BBC
 
Jackson leads Ravens to comeback win over Bengals

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson took control late on as his team fought back from a 14-point deficit to beat the Cincinnati Bengals 35-34 in Maryland.

The Ravens trailed 21-7 in the third quarter, but Jackson threw three touchdown passes in the fourth to lead them to victory - including a game-winning five-yard pass to wide receiver Rashod Bateman with just under two minutes remaining.

Jackson, the NFL's reigning Most Valuable Player, struggled in the first half as the Bengals limited him to just 71 yards and one touchdown.

But the 27-year-old found his rhythm after the half-time break, adding 219 yards and three touchdowns.

The Bengals had a chance to win the game in the final moments after receiver Ja'Marr Chase reduced the deficit to one-point with a five-yard touchdown.

But quarterback Joe Burrow failed to find Tanner Hudson with his pass on a two-point conversion with 38 seconds left, allowing the Ravens to see out the game.

The Ravens' 28 second-half points were the most scored by any team after the half-time break so far this season. They move to a 7-3 record while the Bengals are now 4-6.

BBC
 
Dolphins end losing run with win over Rams

The Miami Dolphins ended a three-game losing streak and kept their faint play-off hopes alive with a 23-15 win over the Los Angeles Rams.

Tua Tagovailoa passed for 207 yards and completed 20 of 28 passes as the Dolphins improved to three wins and six defeats for the season.

Tyreek Hill and Malik Washington scored touchdowns and Jason Sanders kicked three field goals, including two from 50 yards, to seal the win at the SoFi Stadium in California.

Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford completed 32 of 46 passes for 293 yards but did not throw a touchdown pass as their three-game winning streak came to an end.

The Dolphins stay second behind runaway leaders the Buffalo Bills in the AFC East, but still harbour hopes of landing the final wildcard qualification spot with seven games remaining.

“When we're playing our best ball, we can still beat anybody,” said Dolphins defensive tackle Calais Campbell.

“We've just got to continue to believe, continue to fight. The margin for error is zero. So it's one game, but we've got to keep it going.

"For us to go where we want to go, we've got to keep fighting and believe.”

BBC
 
Bills end Chiefs' unbeaten run and Lions hit 50

The Kansas City Chiefs' long unbeaten run finally came to an end at the hands of the Buffalo Bills in one of a number of statement wins in the NFL on Sunday.

After 15 straight wins the defending Super Bowl champions were outplayed in Buffalo as the Bills deservedly ran out 30-21 winners.

The Pittsburgh Steelers were also big winners as they beat arch rivals Baltimore despite not scoring a touchdown.

The Detroit Lions scored a half century against lowly Jacksonville as they continue to look the stand out side in the NFC, while the Green Bay Packers defeated Chicago on the last play of the game.

Right from intercepting Patrick Mahomes' first pass of the game, Buffalo looked the better side as they moved just a game behind their big rivals in the race for the AFC play-offs top seed.

Mahomes kept the Chiefs in it with three touchdown passes, but just as they threatened yet another escapology act Bills quarterback Josh Allen took the game into his own hands and settled it with a barnstorming 26-yard touchdown run.

That makes four straight regular season wins over the Chiefs for Buffalo, who have lost three play-off meetings between the sides in the past four years.

This was a more controlled and complete performance than usual by the Bills, without Allen having to do everything by himself and a sixth successive victory takes them to nine wins and two losses.

It was also a rare convincing defeat of Kansas City - their first by more than a score since October 2021 - as they finish the weekend 9-1.

Buffalo kept Mahomes' offence to a season-low 259 yards and scored 30 points against a Chiefs defence that had gone 30 games without conceding that many.


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NFL Results & Week 11 recap: Bills end Chiefs run, Steelers beat Ravens & Lions run riot

The Kansas City Chiefs lose their first game of the season at the Buffalo Bills while the Pittsburgh Steelers beat arch rivals the Baltimore Ravens and the Detroit Lions hit a half century.
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Mixon inspires Texans win over Cowboys

Houston Texans beat the Dallas Cowboys 34-10 on Monday Night Football to seize control of the AFC South.

Joe Mixon rushed for 109 yards and three touchdowns to inspire his side to a first franchise victory at Dallas' AT&T Stadium.

The Texans raced into a 14-0 lead before the defence stepped up and sacked Cowboys quarterback Cooper Rush five times, intercepted him once and scored a touchdown on a strip sack.

Quarterback CJ Stroud had an underwhelming evening, completing 23 of 34 passes for no touchdowns and one interception.

Houston conceded nine penalties for 69 yards, which allowed the Cowboys to stay in the game, but ended a two-game losing streak to improve to 7-4 at the top of the AFC South, two wins ahead of the Indianapolis Colts.

Dallas have lost five games in a row and have slipped to 3-7, all but ending their play-off hopes.

The Texans' next two opponents are divisional rivals the Tennessee Titans and Jacksonville Jaguars, both of whom have won just two games this season.

Meanwhile, the Cowboys will travel to the Washington Commanders before hosting the New York Giants.

BBC
 
Browns seal comeback win over Steelers in blizzard

The Cleveland Browns overcame blizzard conditions to secure a dramatic 24-19 comeback win over the Pittsburgh Steelers in Ohio.

The Steelers had looked on course for victory when touchdowns from Jaylen Warren and Calvin Austin helped them fight back from 18-6 down in the fourth quarter to lead 19-18.

But the Browns hit back immediately as Jameis Winston led a nine-play, 45-yard drive that ended with Nick Chubb barging into the end zone for his second touchdown of the match.

Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson attempted a Hail Mary with the final play but it was ruled incomplete.

The match began in dry conditions before a snow storm moved in and got progressively worse as the contest went on, with the players struggling to keep their footing.

"I've never played in anything like this before," Winston told ESPN. "We are so grateful to the staff for providing hand warmers and clear scrapers so we were able to go out there and do the best we can."

The defeat means the Steelers slip to 8-3 for the season but remain ahead of the Baltimore Ravens at the top of the AFC North. The Browns stay bottom after improving to 3-8.

BBC
 
New York Giants release quarterback Jones

The New York Giants have "mutually agreed" to terminate the contract of quarterback Daniel Jones, less than two years after he signed a $160m extension with the NFL franchise.

Jones, a first-round draft pick in 2019, lost his place as the Giants' starting quarterback earlier this week.

The Giants have won just two of their 10 games this season and have lost their past five.

"Daniel came to see me this morning and asked if we would release him," Giants president John Mara said.

"We mutually agreed that would be best for him and for the team. Daniel has been a great representative of our organisation, first class in every way. His handling of this situation yesterday exemplifies just that.

"We are all disappointed in how things have worked out. We hold Daniel in high regard and have a great appreciation for him. We wish him nothing but the best in the future."

Coach Brian Daboll announced that former undrafted free agent Tommy DeVito had been promoted to starting quarterback on Monday.

Jones, 27, joined the Giants in 2019 and was rewarded with a $160m, four-year contract in 2023 - two years of which were guaranteed.

At the time it made him one of the top-10 best-paid quarterbacks in the NFL.

He is ranked 32nd among all qualified quarterbacks in passer rating this season and has seven interceptions and just eight touchdowns in 2024.


BBC
 
MVP Jackson leads Ravens to victory at Chargers

Quarterback Lamar Jackson starred as Baltimore Ravens sealed a 30-23 victory against the Los Angeles Chargers in the latest edition of the 'Harbaugh Bowl'.

Jackson got the Ravens on the board when he ran in a touchdown, before throwing for a further two.

It is the third time siblings John and Jim Harbaugh, who coach the Ravens and the Chargers respectively, have met in the NFL, with the former undefeated.

"This is a big win. Proud for our guys," John Harbaugh said.

"I just told him [Jim] you are a great coach and you have a great team and I love you."

In the previous two meetings, John led the Ravens to victory over Jim's San Francisco 49ers in a 2011 regular-season game before delivering on the big stage in the 2013 Super Bowl.

"It's pretty cool I'm part of history," Jackson said of the winning.

"We finished off the game the correct way. We started off slow - we've got to fix that and I believe we'll be where we want to be."

Jackson, the 2023 NFL Most Valuable Player, threw for 177 yards, while running back Derrick Henry ran 140 yards to spearhead Baltimore's attack.

"We just got in sync, hit the ground running, made the plays, went with what we know," said Jackson.

"Henry gets one carry and went for what he knows. That man, he can't be stopped."

The Ravens have won eight of their 12 games this season and sit second in the AFC North, while the Chargers are second in the AFC West with seven wins and four defeats.

BBC
 
Lions deny Bears on Thanksgiving for 10th straight win

The Detroit Lions won a 10th straight game and ended their wait for a Thanksgiving victory by withstanding a Chicago Bears fightback to triumph 23-20.

Detroit have hosted a game on Thanksgiving every year since 1934, but this was their first win on the American holiday since 2016.

The Lions, who have matched their franchise record after winning 11 of their 12 games this season, led 16-0 at the halfway stage and 23-7 after the third quarter.

Chicago made it a three-point game with five minutes and 36 seconds remaining, but poor clock management in the visitors' last possession allowed Detroit to hold on.

Jared Goff connected with Sam LaPorta for two touchdowns and passed for 221 yards as the Lions outgained the Bears 279-53 in a one-sided first half.

Although Chicago rallied to set up a tense finale, the Bears could not find the points required in the closing stages, failing to use their final timeout as their losing run extended to six games.

The Lions' 10-game win streak matched the team's 90-year record from their first season in Detroit in 1934.

Elsewhere, the Green Bay Packers made it three wins in a row with a dominant 30-17 victory against the Miami Dolphins in Florida.

Packers quarterback Jordan Love completed 21 of his 28 passes for 274 yards, including two for touchdowns.

The victory moved the Packers to 9-3 for the season but that is only good enough for third in the competitive NFC North, which the Lions lead on 11-1 with the Minnesota Vikings second on 9-2.

In the NFC East, the Dallas Cowboys earned their first home win in nearly a year with a 27-20 victory against the New York Giants.

It was the Cowboys' first victory at the AT&T stadium since beating the Lions on 30 December 2023 - 334 days ago.

BBC
 
Chiefs hold off late Raiders rally to clinch play-off spot

The Kansas City Chiefs, the defending Super Bowl champions, came out on top in a dramatic finish to beat the Las Vegas Raiders 19-17 and become the first team to clinch an NFL play-off spot.

Trailing by two points, with 15 seconds left and in field goal range, the Raiders lost possession after a mix-up saw center Jackson Powers-Johnson snap the ball early, resulting in a Chiefs fumble recovery that sealed the win.

It is the Chiefs' 14th straight victory in one-possession games - the longest run in NFL history.

Led by star quarterback Patrick Mahomes, the Chiefs were in control, leading 16-3 with three minutes of the third quarter left in the NFL's annual 'Black Friday' game at Arrowhead.

But the Raiders, with Aidan O'Connell back at quarterback following a thumb injury, fought back and looked set to kick a field goal to seal a narrow victory before their last-gasp calamity.

Instead, Kansas City are now 11-1 and well placed for a challenge for a third-straight Super Bowl title.

The struggling Raiders are 2-10.


BBC
 
Allen stars in the snow as Bills book play-off place

Josh Allen had a record night in the snow as the Buffalo Bills clinched the AFC East title and a play-off spot with five games to spare.

It was misery in the Buffalo blizzard for the San Francisco 49ers though, who joined the Cincinnati Bengals and Baltimore Ravens in suffering huge body blows on Sunday.

The Bengals lost a wild shootout against the Pittsburgh Steelers which gives them a huge mountain to climb to make the play-offs, while the Ravens felt the full force of the red-hot Philadelphia Eagles.

There were two one-point games and a frantic overtime finish while Aaron Rodgers' job may be on the line after another poor outing for the New York Jets.


www.bbc.com

NFL results and week 13 recap: Josh Allen stars as Buffalo clinch division and Eagles beat Ravens

Josh Allen makes NFL history as the Buffalo Bills clinch the AFC East, while the Philadelphia Eagles earn a statement win at the Baltimore Ravens.
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Broncos run in two interceptions to beat Browns

The Denver Broncos strengthened their grip on an NFL play-off spot as they came from behind to beat the Cleveland Browns 41-32.

Browns quarterback Jameis Winston threw for a franchise-record 497 yards and four touchdowns while team-mate Jerry Jeudy had 235 receiving yards against his former team.

But it was not enough as Winston also threw three interceptions, two of which were returned for touchdowns, including Ja'Quan McMillian's game-clinching score with less than two minutes remaining.

That improved Denver's record to 8-5 and the Broncos - who have not reached the play-offs since winning the Super Bowl at end of the 2015 season - occupy the seventh and final play-off spot in the AFC Conference.

Cleveland are now 3-9, with Winston having a 2-3 record since the 30-year-old stepped in for injured starter Deshaun Watson.

Monday's defeat was reminiscent of Winston's mixed year with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2019. That season he led the NFL in passing yards (5,109) and was second for touchdown passes (33) but also led the league in interceptions (30).

"I know I'm better than this," he said. "I'm just praying for the Lord to deliver me from pick-sixes. That's not me."

Winston threw his first pick-six to Nik Bonitto although David Njoku swiftly claimed his second touchdown for visitors Cleveland to cut the deficit to 21-17 at half-time.

Denver's rookie quarterback Bo Nix then found Marvin Mims Jr from his own endzone and he ran in a 93-yard touchdown, and on the very next play Winston replied by finding Jeudy for a 70-yard score.

A Nick Chubb touchdown edged the Browns into a 32-31 lead with less than nine minutes remaining, but the Broncos went back in front with a Wil Lutz field goal with 2:54 left, before McMillian's 44-yard pick-six sealed victory.

BBC
 
NFL ends inquiry into Watson sexual assault claim

The NFL has ended its investigation into the latest sexual assault allegation made against Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson.

The 29-year-old was under investigation after the filing of a civil lawsuit in September from a woman in Texas, seeking $1m (£764,000) in damages for an incident that allegedly occurred while the pair were on a date in October 2020.

Watson denied the allegation and the lawsuit was settled confidentially.

The NFL subsequently conducted its own investigation but announced on Saturday it would take no formal action against Watson.

"There was insufficient evidence to support a finding of a violation of the personal conduct policy," a league spokesperson told the Associated Press., external "The matter is closed."

Watson's lawyer Rusty Hardin told the Washington Post: "We are delighted to put this issue behind us so that Deshaun can concentrate on recovering from his injury and preparing for next season."

Watson was suspended by the NFL for the first 11 matches of the 2022 season after 24 civil lawsuits were filed against him during his time with the Houston Texans.

He faced multiple accusations from women of sexual assault and misconduct during massage sessions between March 2020 and March 2021.

The NFL fined Watson $5m (£3.9m) under its personal conduct policy and he was suspended without pay.

Watson denied the allegations, and two grand juries ruled there was not enough evidence to charge him.

He later reached confidential settlements with 23 of the 24 women in the summer of 2022.

Watson has not played since October after sustaining a season-ending Achilles injury.

He has featured just 19 times for the Browns since his move in 2022, because of suspensions and injuries.

BBC
 
Bengals pounce on Cowboys blunder to clinch late win

The Cincinnati Bengals capitalised on a late Dallas Cowboys blunder to end their three-game NFL losing streak and win 27-20 in Texas on Monday.

With less than two minutes to play and the score 20-20, the Cowboys deflected a punt but Amani Oruwariye touched the ball to make it live, before it was recovered by the Bengals.

Three plays later, quarterback Joe Burrow found receiver Ja'Marr Chase for a 40-yard, game-winning touchdown.

Cincinnati held off a late Cowboys final drive to deny Dallas a third straight win.

The win extends Cincinnati's record to 5-8 and keeps them mathematically in contention for a play-off spot, although the likelihood is unlikely because they would need other results to go their way.

"We needed a break. We haven't got many this year. It was nice to get that one, nice to come out of this with a win," said Burrow.

The Cowboys, who were missing key quarterback Dak Prescott through injury, also have a 5-8 record with a slim chance of qualifying for the play-offs.

BBC
 
NFL to play first regular-season game in Berlin

The NFL will play its first regular-season game in Berlin in 2025, making it five confirmed international games for next season.

The game will be staged at Berlin's Olympic Stadium and will be the fifth to be played in Germany since the NFL's international series expanded from the UK to mainland Europe in 2022.

The NFL's initial commitment to Germany included games in Munich and Frankfurt - one game was held in Munich in 2022 and 2024, with two in Frankfurt in 2023.

But the league has now made a "multi-year commitment" to playing games in the German capital.

Berlin's Olympic Stadium hosted five pre-season games from 1990-1994 and hosted Berlin Thunder of the now-defunct NFL Europe from 2003 to 2007.

"Germany has a rich tradition of American football and the NFL has a deep history with the city of Berlin," said NFL commissioner Roger Goodell.

The NFL has already confirmed it will play a game in Spain for the first time next year - at Real Madrid's Bernabeu stadium - and there will again be three games in London.

The current season began with the NFL's first game in Brazil and Goodell has said the league is "shooting for" eight international games in 2025, with Brazil, Mexico and Ireland potential hosts for the other three games.

The NFL estimates it now has almost 20 million fans in Germany and, as part of the new partnership, will work with local authorities to develop flag football, which will make its Olympic debut at the Los Angeles Games in 2028.

"This long-term partnership with the NFL will continue to boost Berlin as a global sports metropolis, as well as excite fans at the Olympic Stadium," said Iris Spranger, Berlin's senator for the interior and sports.

"The 2025 NFL Berlin game means worldwide visibility, numerous international guests, increased tourism and high economic value across the city."


BBC
 
NFL legend Belichick returns to game in college role

Legendary American football coach Bill Belichick has returned to the game after a year out but not as a coach in the NFL.

The 72-year-old, who won a record six Super Bowls with the New England Patriots, has become head coach of the University of North Carolina.

After ending his 24-year spell with the Patriots at the end of last season, Belichick was interviewed by the NFL's Atlanta Falcons but not offered a role.

Instead he fulfilled a number of broadcasting roles this season before accepting a three-year deal with the Tar Heels, worth a reported $30m (£23.5m).

Belichick's father, Steve Belichick, was an assistant coach at the University of North Carolina from 1953-55. Bill Belichick takes over a Tar Heels program that has not won a conference title since 1980.

Belichick said in a statement released by North Carolina, "I am excited for the opportunity. I grew up around college football with my dad and treasured those times.

"I have always wanted to coach in college and now I look forward to building the football program in Chapel Hill."

This is Belichick's first coaching job in the college game having spent his entire career in the NFL, beginning in 1975 as a special assistant with the Baltimore Colts, who have since relocated to Indianapolis.

He won two Super Bowls as defensive coordinator with the New York Giants before becoming the Cleveland Browns head coach from 1991-1995.

Curiously, Belichick also had two brief stints as head coach of the New York Jets totalling just seven days, the second of which in 2000 ended as his introductory news conference turned into a resignation announcement.

He left to take charge of the Patriots, spearheading the greatest dynasty in NFL history as a New England team led by quarterback Tom Brady won six Super Bowls in an 18-year span.

Belichick has the most Super Bowl wins by a head coach, while the Patriots and Pittsburgh Steelers share the team record.

BBC
 
Rams beat San Francisco to boost NFL play-off hopes

The Los Angeles Rams overcame the San Francisco 49ers 12-6 in a rain-affected game to boost their NFL play-off hopes.

With the game tied at 6-6 in the fourth quarter, rookie kicker Joshua Karty drilled a 27-yard field goal to put the Rams ahead by three.

Karty then capped off a final drive with his fourth field goal with 18 seconds remaining.

"This team can win a variety of ways," said Rams coach Sean McVay.

Neither side scored a touchdown at a sodden Levi's Stadium in California on Thursday - the first game without a touchdown of the 2024 season.

McVay added: "I thought the defence came up big, time in and time out."

San Francisco opened the scoring in the first quarter with a 53-yard field goal from Jake Moody, before he added to his tally early in the third to give the 49ers a 6-3 advantage.

But with the game level halfway through the third quarter, Niners wide receiver Deebo Samuel, who had recently complained on social media that he was not getting the ball enough, ended up dropping it in a key play, leading to boos from the home crowd.

The defeat was an eighth in 14 games for last season's beaten Super Bowl finalists, a further blow for their already slim play-off chances.

While San Francisco struggle, the Rams hold an 8-6 record for their campaign so far.

BBC
 
Allen stars in Bills epic & Mahomes limps out of Chiefs win

Josh Allen produced another sensational display in another Buffalo Bills epic on Sunday, while the Kansas City Chiefs' latest victory may have come at a huge cost.

The defending champions enjoyed their biggest win of the season but saw star quarterback Patrick Mahomes limp out of the game with a worrying ankle injury.

Buffalo have no such worries over their own superstar Allen, who again showed why he is the Most Valuable Player favourite as the Bills ended the Detroit Lions' 11-game winning run in another high-scoring thriller.

The Pittsburgh Steelers lost at the Philadelphia Eagles but still secured their spot in the play-offs, as did the Houston Texans, while the Minnesota Vikings joined them without even playing.

Allen's Buffalo the great entertainers

Just a week after losing 44-42 at the Rams, Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills came out on top this time in another blockbuster - edging the Lions 48-42 in Detroit.

Billed as a potential Super Bowl preview, the top two scorers in the NFL put on a show worthy of the big game, with their two banged-up defences unable to shackle Allen or Lions quarterback Jared Goff.

Goff threw five touchdowns but was always playing from behind after Allen's two quick rushing scores early on - as the Bills equalled an NFL record with eight straight games scoring 30 points or more.

They are also just the second team to score and concede 40 points in back-to-back games.

If this fixture is repeated in the Super Bowl it would be some spectacle, but both sides need to solve some defensive issues if they are to make it to New Orleans in February.

Mahomes a big injury worry for Chiefs

The 11-3 Bills are the only team to beat the 13-1 Chiefs and will now fancy pipping them to the AFC top seed after the champions saw Patrick Mahomes limp out late in their 21-7 victory at the Cleveland Browns.

The Chiefs have won 10 games this season by one score, six of those coming on the final play of the game, so this was their most comfortable victory of the campaign.

"I feel like I could have finished the game in different circumstances," Mahomes said after the Chiefs opted to send back-up Carson Wentz in to finish the game.

Chiefs head coach Andy Reid confirmed Mahomes' ankle was not broken, but the timing is tough with the Chiefs playing on Saturday, 21 December against Houston and then in a Christmas Day visit to Pittsburgh.

With home advantage and a crucial bye week at stake in their race with the Bills, there will be a lot riding on further medical tests on Mahomes' ankle on Monday.

Steelers make play-offs despite loss to Eagles

The Pittsburgh Steelers have now lost 11 straight games in Philadelphia as the Eagles won the latest battle for Pennsylvania 27-13 - and a team record 10th straight victory of the season.

Jalen Hurts finally got the Eagles' passing attack moving a week after receivers AJ Brown and DeVonta Smith's public criticism, with opposition quarterback Russell Wilson having all the production problems this week.

The Steelers did secure a play-off place despite the defeat, but their top spot in the AFC North is under threat after the Baltimore Ravens dominated the New York Giants 35-14 to close the gap.

Lamar Jackson threw five touchdown passes before next week's huge showdown against the Steelers in Baltimore - with Pittsburgh also sweating over defensive star TJ Watt who injured his ankle against the Eagles.

The Houston Texans won a second straight AFC South title after beating the Dolphins 20-12 - in a game overshadowed by a serious injury to Miami receiver Grant DuBose, who was driven off on a stretcher in a neck brace after 10 minutes of treatment following a blow to the head.

Head coach Mike McDaniel said DuBose would remain in hospital overnight after "some positive feedback" on his head and neck injuries.

Packers pick off Seahawks in Seattle

Jordan Love and the Green Bay Packers impressed with a comprehensive 30-13 win in Seattle, which saw the Seahawks lose top spot in the NFC West and drop out of the play-off places altogether.

At 10-4, only five teams in the entire NFL have a better record than the Packers, but two of those are in Green Bay's division - so a wildcard looks their most likely route to the play-offs.

The Packers helped one of their rivals out, with the Minnesota Vikings bagging a play-off spot before their Monday night game thanks to Seattle losing.

The divisional system is helping out the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who improved to just 8-6 with a 40-17 victory over the Los Angeles Chargers and that is good enough to top the weaker NFC South.

Commanders survive late Saints surge

The Washington Commanders led 20-7 in the fourth quarter but had to survive a late onslaught at the New Orleans Saints, with back-up quarterback Spencer Rattler throwing a touchdown pass as time expired.

Trailing by a point, interim head coach Darren Rizzi went for a two-point conversion and instant win instead of settling for overtime, but the try just failed, allowing Washington to escape 20-19.

Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor was left red faced when he casually dropped the ball after scoring a touchdown - only for a video replay to spot he did so just inches before the line.

That cost the Colts dearly as they went on to lose 31-13 at the Denver Broncos.

Joe Burrow threw another three touchdown passes as the Cincinnati Bengals beat the Tennessee Titans 37-27 in a game filled with mistakes.

The two teams combined for 10 turnovers and 26 penalties in a coach's nightmare of a game.

Aaron Rodgers and Davante Adams rolled back the years as the New York Jets beat the slumping Jacksonville Jaguars 32-25 - with Adams becoming the 12th player with 100 receiving touchdowns in NFL history.

The Jets are already out of play-off contention but Rodgers and Adams gave a glimpse of what they could possibly do next season if both stay with the team.

Micah Parsons inspired the Dallas Cowboys to a comfortable win at the Carolina Panthers and the Arizona Cardinals ended a three-game losing run by beating the New England Patriots.

NFL results - week 15

  • Buffalo Bills 48-42 Detroit Lions
  • Indianapolis Colts 13-31 Denver Broncos
  • Pittsburgh Steelers 13-27 Philadelphia Eagles
  • Tampa Bay Buccaneers 40-17 Los Angeles Chargers
  • New England Patriots 17-30 Arizona Cardinals
  • Kansas City Chiefs 21-7 Cleveland Browns
  • Cincinnati Bengals 37-27 Tennessee Titans
  • Washington Commanders 20-19 New Orleans Saints
  • Baltimore Ravens 35-14 New York Giants
  • Dallas Cowboys 30-14 Carolina Panthers
  • New York Jets 32-25 Jacksonville Jaguars
  • Miami Dolphins 12-20 Houston Texans
  • Green Bay Packers 30-13 Seattle Seahawks
  • Chicago Bears @ Minnesota Vikings (01:00 GMT Tuesday)
  • Atlanta Falcons @ Las Vegas Raiders (01:30 GMT Tuesday)
BBC
 
Chargers beat Broncos to leave both on play-off brink

The Los Angeles Chargers claimed a 34-27 win over the Denver Broncos to close in on a spot in the NFL play-offs.

Quarterback Justin Herbert passed for 284 yards and two touchdowns, both in the final quarter, as the Chargers came back from a 24-13 deficit late in the third.

Gus Edwards added two rushing touchdowns to help the hosts claim their first win in three games and halt a four-game winning streak for the Broncos.

Both teams now have a 9-6 record with two games left in the regular season and sit in the final two play-off spots in the AFC Conference.

They will clinch a place in the post-season if both the Miami Dolphins and Indianapolis Colts fail to win on Sunday.

Bo Nix had 263 passing yards and two touchdown passes for the Broncos, who have not reached the play-offs since winning the Super Bowl in 2016.

Both those touchdowns came in the second quarter, helping Denver into a 21-10 lead, before the Chargers made it 21-13 at half-time with the first successful fair-catch free-kick field goal in 46 years.

The Chargers then fought back, with Edwards getting into the end zone from five yards while Herbert made a 19-yard touchdown pass to Derius Davis before tossing the ball to Hassan Haskins, who ran it in for a 34-yard score.

What is a fair-catch free-kick field goal?

A team may attempt a fair-catch field goal if it makes a fair catch when the clock expires at the end of either half.

Usually a kick returner catches a punt deep in their own territory and if they signal for a fair catch - meaning they cannot be tackled - the ball becomes dead the moment they catch it and they cannot run the ball back.

In Thursday's game, Denver were hit with a 15-yard penalty for interference on Derius Davis as he made a fair catch, which moved the Chargers into field-goal range.

Cameron Dicker then converted from 57 yards for his second field goal of the game, adding three points to the Chargers' total.

He was the first to even attempt a fair-catch free-kick field goal since 2019.

BBC
 
Packers rout Saints to clinch play-off spot

Jordan Love starred as the Green Bay Packers routed the New Orleans Saints 34-0 to secure their spot in the NFL play-offs.

The 26-year-old quarterback threw for 182 yards and a touchdown as the Packers earned their place in the play-offs for the fifth time in six seasons.

The result was the first shutout of the campaign as the in-form Packers won their ninth match in 11 games.

"The goal is the Super Bowl. That's the first step right there making the play-offs," said Love.

"This was a big-time game to clinch that spot. I'm proud of the way we came out here and handled business."

In a dominant performance, the Packers possessed the ball for 37 minutes and 13 seconds of the 60-minute game, and had 404 total yards in comparison to the Saints 196.

The Packers improved to 11 wins and four defeats with the Saints dropping to 5-10 having already been ruled out of play-off contention.

Green Bay, who are looking to reach their first Super Bowl since 2011, join fellow NFC Conference sides the Detroit Lions, Minnesota Vikings and Philadelphia Eagles in the play-offs.

BBC
 
Mahomes, Jackson, Beyonce star on Christmas Day in NFL

The Kansas City Chiefs locked up the AFC top seed and the Baltimore Ravens crushed the Houston Texans as two of the NFL's biggest names starred on Christmas Day.

Patrick Mahomes threw three touchdown passes as the Chiefs beat the Pittsburgh Steelers 29-10 to ensure they have a first-round bye and home advantage in the play-offs as they look to win a historic third straight Super Bowl.

Lamar Jackson then further pressed his claims to win a second consecutive MVP award and third overall with another all-action display in Baltimore's emphatic 31-2 victory in Houston.

Jackson threw two touchdown passes and ran in one himself as he broke Michael Vick's NFL quarterback rushing record on a night of headline performances on and off the pitch.

Beyonce performed a half-time show in Houston to rival those usually seen at the Super Bowl, featuring a Post Malone cameo and ending with her hit Texas Hold 'Em.

It was all part of the big show element, marking the NFL's first year of Christmas Day games being streamed globally on Netflix.

Hence why two of the best teams and two of the biggest NFL stars were chosen - and they responded in style.

Chiefs turn it on to clinch top spot

No team has ever won three straight Super Bowls, but the Chiefs powered into pole position in Pittsburgh by going 15-1 and ensuring they get all the trappings of being top seed in the AFC for the fourth time in seven years.

The defending champions had plenty of doubters after scraping narrow wins for much of the season, but they emerged from a punishing three games in 11 days with three wins and looking stronger than they have all season.

Mahomes and Travis Kelce are finding top gear in a much improved passing attack and the impressive Chiefs defence, even without star man Chris Jones, sacked Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson five times in yet another stifling display.

It was the perfect Christmas for Chiefs head coach Andy Reid, who celebrated by dressing as Santa after the game. He can now rest his star players for their final game of the regular season, when they face the Denver Broncos, before also having a bye week to prepare for their latest play-off charge.

And that is a big worry to the rest of the NFL.

"Getting the number one seed is important," said Mahomes. "It's like winning a play-off game."

Record night for MVP contender Jackson

Pittsburgh's defeat opened the door for Baltimore to take charge of the AFC North, which they did emphatically thanks to Jackson's efforts and a large dose of running back Derrick Henry.

Jackson's 48-yard touchdown run was the highlight, where he reached a career-best speed of 21.25mph to leave the Houston defence for dead - despite joking "I was jogging" after the game.

His 87 yards gave Jackson 6,110 yards in his career, eclipsing Michael Vick's previous record of 6,109 set over 13 seasons. Jackson has been a starter for just seven years.

The quarterback's playmaking ability with his arm and his foot speed is complemented by the bruising running style of Henry - who had 147 yards and a team record 16th touchdown.

"It's just another phenomenal performance," said head coach John Harbaugh of Jackson. "It's just kind of what he does every week."

The 11-5 Ravens have the top offence in the NFL and, like the Chiefs, are hitting stride at the right time, with their defence keeping the Texans at bay.

Unlike the Chiefs, the Ravens will need to go full strength in their final game against the Cleveland Browns to make sure they win their division and get at least one home play-off game.

NFL Week 17 schedule & results

(All kick-off times GMT)

  • Kansas City Chiefs 29-10 Pittsburgh Steelers
  • Baltimore Ravens 31-2 Houston Texans
  • Seattle Seahawks at Chicago Bears (Friday 01:15)
  • Los Angeles Chargers at New England Patriots (Saturday 18:00)
  • Denver Broncos at Cincinnati Bengals (Saturday 21:30)
Sunday schedule

  • Arizona Cardinals at Los Angeles Rams
  • Dallas Cowboys at Philadelphia Eagles
  • Carolina Panthers at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
  • Las Vegas Raiders at New Orleans Saints
  • Tennessee Titans at Jacksonville Jaguars
  • New York Jets at Buffalo Bills
  • Indianapolis Colts at New York Giants
  • Miami Dolphins at Cleveland Browns
  • Green Bay Packers at Minnesota Vikings
  • Atlanta Falcons at Washington Commanders
Monday Night Football

  • Detroit Lions at San Francisco 49ers (Tuesday 01:15)
BBC
 
Goff stars as Lions come from behind to beat 49ers

Jared Goff threw for three touchdowns and 303 yards as the Detroit Lions came from behind to defeat the San Francisco 49ers 40-34 in California.

The 30-year-old quarterback completed 26 of his 34 passes, finding Jameson Williams, Sam LaPorta and Amon-Ra St Brown for touchdowns as the Lions made it 14 wins from 16 games this season.

On Sunday, the Lions host the Minnesota Vikings, who also have a 14-2 record, to decide the winners of the NFC North and which of them will be the NFC top seed and get a first-round bye in the play-offs.

The Lions' victory over the 49ers was a level of revenge for last season's NFC Championship defeat, which prevented them from appearing in their first Super Bowl.

Brock Purdy, the 49ers quarterback, passed for a career-high 377 yards and three touchdowns and rushed for another score. However, he was intercepted twice in the second half after his side led 21-13 at half-time.

The 49ers, beaten by the Kansas City Chiefs in the 2024 Super Bowl, have failed to reach the post-season for the first time since the 2020 season.

BBC
 
Jackson stars as Ravens clinch AFC North title

Lamar Jackson shone again as the Baltimore Ravens clinched the AFC North title and the third seed spot in the conference with a 35-10 win over the Cleveland Browns on Saturday.

The victory means the Ravens will begin the NFL play-offs next week at home to either the Los Angeles Chargers or the Pittsburgh Steelers.

The Cincinnati Bengals kept their AFC play-off hopes alive with a 19-17 win at the Steelers.

The Bengals need the Denver Broncos to lose and Miami Dolphins to lose or tie their games on Sunday to claim a play-off spot.

In Baltimore, Jackson, who is in the running for a third Most Valuable Player award, threw two touchdown passes while Derrick Henry added two fourth-quarter scoring runs as the Browns suffered a sixth straight loss.

Jackson completed 16 of 32 passes for 217 yards while adding 63 yards on nine rushes, finishing the regular season with 41 touchdown passes and just four interceptions.

He ends the campaign with 4,172 yards passing and 915 yards rushing making him the first quarterback in NFL history to finish with 4,000+ passing yards and 800+ rushing yards.

Henry compiled 138 yards on 20 carries, giving him 1,921 yards and 16 rushing scores.

But there was a concern for Baltimore head coach John Harbaugh with his leading wide receiver, Zay Flowers, suffering a right knee injury in the second quarter.

In Pittsburgh, Joe Burrow passed for 277 yards and one touchdown while Ja'Marr Chase had 10 receptions for 96 yards and one touchdown and Cade York kicked four field goals as Cincinnati made it five wins in a row.

The Steelers had already clinched a playoff berth but were eliminated from the AFC North race earlier on Saturday thanks to Baltimore's win.

Russell Wilson was 17-of-31 passing for 148 yards and one touchdown for Pittsburgh who had just 193 total yards as they slipped to a fourth straight defeat.

Najee Harris rushed for a touchdown and Pat Freiermuth had eight receptions for 85 yards and a touchdown for Pittsburgh, who will either be the fifth or sixth seed in the AFC play-offs.

BBC
 
Jaguars sack coach Pederson after three seasons

The Jacksonville Jaguars have sacked Doug Pederson after three seasons as their head coach.

After winning just four games in two years before Pederson's appointment in 2022, the Jaguars had a 9-8 record in his first two seasons.

The Jaguars also earned a play-off win in his first season but Pederson, 56, has now made way after stumbling to a 4-13 record this term.

"Doug is an accomplished football man who will undoubtedly enjoy another chapter in his impressive NFL career," said team owner Shahid Khan.

"As much as Doug and I both wish his experience here in Jacksonville would have ended better, I have an obligation first and foremost to serve the best interests of our team and especially our fans, who faithfully support our team and are overdue to be rewarded. In that spirit, the time to summon new leadership is now."

Pederson is the second NFL head coach to be sacked following the final regular-season games on Sunday, with Jerod Mayo leaving the New England Patriots.

Pederson led the Philadelphia Eagles to their first and only Super Bowl win in 2018 and was the Jaguars' fifth permanent head coach since Khan's takeover in 2012.

Quarterback Trevor Lawrence was handed a five-year contract extension last summer worth a reported $275m (£216m) but the former number one draft pick had multiple injuries this season.

The Jaguars have also agreed a deal worth $1.4bn (£1.15bn) to renovate their stadium.

They have played annual games in London since 2013 and could play multiple home games overseas while their ground is being upgraded.

"I strongly believe it is possible next season to restore the winning environment we had here not long ago," added Khan, who is now looking to "hire a leader who shares my ambition and is ready to seize the extraordinary opportunity we will offer in Jacksonville".


BBC
 
Rams move play-off to Arizona amid LA wildfires

The Los Angeles Rams' NFL play-off game against the Minnesota Vikings has been moved to Arizona due to the raging wildfires in California.

The game, set for 01:00 GMT on Tuesday, had been due to be played at the SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, a city in the south west of Los Angeles.

But the National Football League have moved the game to the State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona after consultation with public officials, clubs and the players' union.

The wildfires in Los Angeles have left 10 dead and forced hundreds of thousands of residents out of their homes throughout the state.

"It's one of those deals that almost doesn't feel real but it certainly is real to the people that are affected," Rams coach Sean McVay said.

"You just see the amount of people that are affected and it's one of those deals that gives you perspective. Hopefully, they get this stuff under control."

The move comes after the NBA postponed Thursday's match between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Charlotte Hornets at the Crypto.com Arena in downtown Los Angeles.

The Lakers were due to host the Hornets at 03:30 GMT on Friday. The NBA said the date for the rescheduled game will be announced at a later time.

JJ Redick, the Lakers' head coach, lost his house in the fires on Thursday.

"We're heartbroken for Los Angeles," the Lakers said in a statement as they looked to "focus on what matters most today".

"Our thoughts are with all those impacted by this unimaginable situation. And our gratitude is with the first responders and all of you who come together when we need each other the most. We're with you, LA."

NHL side the Los Angeles Kings, who also play at the Crypto.com Arena, postponed their meeting with the Calgary Flames which was scheduled for 03:30 GMT on Thursday.

Olympic swimmer loses medals in blaze

Three-time Olympic swimmer Gary Hall Jr evacuated his home in Palisades before it was lost in the fire.

The American won five gold, three silver and two bronze medals during his career but had to leave them all behind as he fled his home.

"I saw the flames erupt and houses start popping. There were explosions. I didn't have a lot of time," Hall Jr told the Sydney Morning Herald.

"Sunset Boulevard was a complete logjam. People abandoned cars and were running for their lives. Police were telling them to do that. My girlfriend was trapped in her car around smoke.

"I did think about the medals. I did not have time to get them.

"Did the medals burn? Yeah, everything burned. It's something I can live without. I guess everything is just stuff. It'll take some hard work to start over."

BBC
 
Ravens and Texans progress in NFL play-offs

The Baltimore Ravens and Houston Texans both won on Saturday to book their place in week two of the NFL play-offs.

The Pittsburgh Steelers were demolished by Baltimore's run game, with the Ravens winning 28-14.

Running back Derrick Henry had two rushing touchdowns while quarterback Lamar Jackson showed why he is in contention to retain the NFL's Most Valuable Player award.

Earlier, Houston's defence stunned the Los Angeles Chargers to win 32-12 in the opening game of the Wildcard Weekend.

Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert gave up just three interceptions during the 17-game regular season, but was intercepted four times on Saturday alone.

Both Baltimore and Houston were the higher seed so played at home, and they took full advantage to progress to next week's Divisional Round.

Ravens run riot against the Steelers

Baltimore's offence led the league for rushing yards this season, averaging 187.6 per game, and Henry had 186 himself against Pittsburgh.

The Ravens charged into a 21-0 lead by half-time, racking up 308 yards of offence while the Steelers had just 59.

They opened the scoring on their first possession, with Jackson making a 15-yard touchdown pass to Rashod Bateman.

Henry then barged over before Jackson showed some sublime footwork to escape the pressure before finding Justice Hill in the endzone.

Pittsburgh, who lost their last four games of the regular season, replied with a Van Jefferson touchdown, only for Henry to burst through for a 44-yard score.

The Steelers cut the deficit again late in the third quarter through George Pickens, but the extra point proved to be the game's final score.

The Ravens finished with 299 rushing yards - a franchise record for the post-season - with Jackson contributing 81 while passing for two touchdowns and 175 yards.

Texans' defence stuns Chargers

Herbert and the Chargers ended the regular season strongly to finish with an 11-6 record, which was better than Houston's (10-7).

They kicked field goals on their first two possessions before a thrilling finish to the first half saw the Texans snatch a 10-6 lead.

Just over two minutes before half-time, Houston quarterback CJ Stroud fumbled a snap right in front of his own endzone but recovered to complete a 34-yard pass to halfway.

Stroud followed that up with a 37-yard pass to Nico Collins and the pair connected again for the game's opening touchdown. Houston even managed to add a field goal before the half too.

The Texans then intercepted Herbert on successive drives, with safety Eric Murray returning the first for a 38-yard touchdown to lead 20-6, before Ka'imi Fairbairn added a field goal following the latter.

After Fairbairn's third field goal, Los Angeles replied with an 86-yard touchdown from Ladd McConkey, but the Chargers' attempt at an extra point summed up their night.

Cameron Dicker's kick was blocked and Houston's D'Angelo Ross recovered the loose ball to run it into the LA endzone and make it 25-12.

Joe Mixon sealed victory by running in a 17-yard touchdown to finish with 106 rushing yards, while Collins had 122 receiving yards and Derek Stingley Jr claimed two interceptions.

Wildcard Weekend continues with three games on Sunday and concludes with one on Monday.

BBC
 
Patriots appoint Vrabel as new head coach

The New England Patriots have appointed Mike Vrabel as their new head coach.

Vrabel, a Patriots Hall of Famer, replaces Jerod Mayo, who was sacked by the franchise after just one season in charge.

Vrabel played for the Patriots between 2001 and 2008 and won three Super Bowl titles as a linebacker.

His last head coach job was at the Tennessee Titans, where he spent six seasons before he was dismissed a year ago.

"He's back! Patriots Hall of Famer Mike Vrabel returns to New England as our 16th head coach," said the Patriots.

Vrabel was a coaching and personnel consultant for the Cleveland Browns in the 2024 season until 30 December, when his contract ran out.

He was the NFL coach of the year in 2021 while in charge of the Titans.


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Mike Vrabel appointed as New England Patriots head coach

The New England Patriots appoint former player Mike Vrabel to succeed Jerod Mayo as their new head coach.
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'That was for the people of LA' - Rams win emotional play-off game

The Los Angeles Rams paid tribute to the city's firefighters and first responders as they beat the Minnesota Vikings to clinch the last spot in week two of the NFL play-offs.

The Rams earned home advantage for the final game of Wildcard Weekend but Monday's game had to be relocated to State Farm Stadium, home of the Arizona Cardinals, because of wildfires around LA that have killed 24 people.

Yet it still felt like a home game as the Rams romped to a 27-9 win against a Vikings team that failed to recover after being denied the number one seed in the NFC Conference last week.

The Rams sold more than 52,000 tickets for the 63,000-capacity venue in Phoenix, which is a six-hour, 375-mile drive from SoFi Stadium.

A Rams contingent of more than 400 - including players, family, coaches, staff and even pets – travelled on Friday and the team had use of the Cardinals' training facility.

Having secured the NFC West title, the Rams were able to rest their key starters on the final day of the regular season while the Vikings suffered a demoralising loss at the Detroit Lions.

And it showed as the Rams charged into a 24-3 lead by half-time, with Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold being sacked six times and giving up two turnovers.

"We knew what we were playing for," said Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford. "That was for the people of Los Angeles who are struggling right now.

"We're living it every day. It was a tough week for us, a bunch of moving parts. It's been a whirlwind, but to come out here and play like we did, in all phases, I'm really proud of this group."

Vikings fail to bounce back from Lions loss

Minnesota's trip to divisional rivals Detroit last week was the first game in NFL history between two 14-win teams, and it wasn't just the NFC North title on the line.

The winner clinched the NFC's number one seed, plus a bye for the first round of the play-offs and home-field advantage in the Divisional Round.

The loser had to settle for the fifth seed, no week off and a road trip on Wildcard Weekend.

That proved too much for the Vikings to overcome so, despite finishing the regular season with a 14-3 record, they have fallen at the first play-off hurdle for the second time in three years.

The Rams got off to a flying start, with Stafford finding Kyren Williams for a touchdown on the opening drive before LA added a field goal.

The Vikings replied with a field goal and had a touchdown chalked off after returning what they thought was a fumble by Stafford.

But just as it looked like they were getting a foothold in the game, Darnold turned the ball over on successive drives.

He was intercepted by Cobie Durant before Ahkello Witherspoon sacked the Vikings quarterback to force a fumble, with Jared Verse scooping up the loose ball to run in a 57-yard touchdown.

Stafford hit a wide-open Davis Allen for his second touchdown pass right before the half and, although Darnold found TJ Hockenson for a 26-yard score in the third quarter, the Vikings then accepted their fate after a season that promised so much.

NFL play-off schedule - Divisional Round

Saturday, 18 January

  • AFC - Houston Texans (4) at Kansas City Chiefs (1) - 21:30 GMT
  • NFC - Washington Commanders (6) at Detroit Lions (1) - 01:15 GMT (Sunday)
Sunday, 19 January

  • NFC - Los Angeles Rams (4) at Philadelphia Eagles (2) - 20:00 GMT
  • AFC - Baltimore Ravens (3) at Buffalo Bills (2) - 23:30 GMT
BBC
 

Chiefs close in on Super Bowl 'three-peat' but Lions dumped out​

The Kansas City Chiefs moved one step closer to an unprecedented 'three-peat' while the Washington Commanders upset the Detroit Lions in a thriller in the NFL play-offs.

As the number one seeds in each Conference, Kansas City and Detroit earned a bye to week two of the post-season - the Divisional Round.

The Chiefs returned to action with a 23-14 win at home against the Houston Texans on Saturday, but a historic season for the Lions came to a surprise end as they were stunned 45-31 at home by the Commanders - the NFC's sixth seed.

After a 4-13 record last season, rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels has led Washington to the NFC Championship game for the first time since 1992, when the Redskins - as they were previously known - claimed their third Super Bowl win.

Kansas City, meanwhile, kept alive their hopes of becoming the first team to win three straight Super Bowls.

Led by quarterback Patrick Mahomes, the Chiefs have reached the NFL's championship game four times in the past five years, winning it three times.

Last season, they became the first team to win back-to-back Super Bowls since Tom Brady's New England Patriots in 2004 and 2005, and they are back within one win of the big game.

The Chiefs will play in their seventh straight AFC Championship game next week against either the Baltimore Ravens or the Buffalo Bills, while the Commanders will visit the Philadelphia Eagles or the Los Angeles Rams.

The final Divisional Round games are played on Sunday.

Source: BBC
 

Eagles hold on vs. Rams to advance to NFC Championship Game​

PHILADELPHIA -- Saquon Barkley dashed through the snow for touchdown runs of 78 and 62 yards and finished with 205 yards rushing, Jalen Hurts had a 44-yard scoring run and the Philadelphia Eagles held on against the turnover-happy Los Angeles Rams 28-22 on Sunday to advance to the NFC Championship Game for the second time in three seasons.

Barkley ran for a 62-yard score in the first half and stretched the lead in the fourth when he blew through a hole and ran untouched 78 yards for another touchdown. Barkley smacked his helmet with his hand on his final snowy steps and flapped his arms once he hit the end zone. He slid into the snow in the late-game celebration.

The Eagles will host the NFC Championship Game Sunday against Washington, after the Commanders upset No. 1 seed Detroit on Saturday.

Source: ESPN
 

Baltimore Ravens refuse to blame Mark Andrews for loss​

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. -- After another frustrating finish in the playoffs, a ticked-off Lamar Jackson refused to blame tight end Mark Andrews' dropped pass on a late 2-point conversion attempt for the Baltimore Ravens' 27-25 loss to the Buffalo Bills in Sunday's AFC divisional game.

Instead, the reigning NFL most valuable player directed his anger at the Ravens' three uncharacteristic turnovers.

"Every time we in situations like this, turnovers play a factor," Jackson said while slapping his right hand into his left. "We can't have that s---, and that's why we lost the game. As you can see, we're moving the ball wonderfully ... it's hold on to the f---ing ball. I'm sorry for my language. This s--- is annoying. I'm tired of this s---."

Despite the turnovers -- which included two by Jackson -- the Ravens had a chance to tie the score in the fourth quarter. Jackson's 24-yard touchdown pass to tight end Isaiah Likely trimmed Baltimore's deficit to 27-25 with 1:33 left in the game.

On the 2-point conversion attempt, Jackson's pass hit Andrews in the stomach before the ball slipped through his grasp as he fell backward into the end zone.

"There's nobody that has more heart and cares more and fights more than Mark," Ravens coach John Harbaugh said. "We wouldn't be here without Mark Andrews. Destiny is a decision that you make and how you handle what comes in your life. Mark will handle it fantastic."

Andrews was not available to speak to reporters after a game in which he made uncharacteristic mistakes.

Before Sunday's game, Andrews hadn't dropped a pass since Week 6 against Washington in October. In the divisional game, Andrews dropped two passes, including the critical 2-point conversion attempt.

Andrews also fumbled near midfield during the middle of the fourth quarter when he had the ball punched out. It was the second fumble of his seven-year career.

"People don't turn on one another," Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton said. "One play doesn't define anybody. He's the all-time-leading touchdown receiver in Ravens history, so for anybody to say anything about him, you have to look in the mirror. He's been a consistent beacon of success the whole time he's been here, and for anybody to take anything away from him and his work ethic, I think it's just unfair."

Jackson spoke to Andrews on the sideline after the failed 2-point conversion in the fourth quarter.

"I'm just as hurt as Mark," Jackson said. "[It's not] his fault. All of us played a factor in that game. It's a team effort. We're not going to put that on Mark because he's been battling all season. He's been doing all the great things he's been doing all season. It [doesn't] always go our way. We want it to, but at the moment in time, it's not going our way. We need to figure it out."

Before rallying the Ravens in the second half, Jackson had an error-filled start. In a season when he threw a career-low four interceptions, Jackson had a pass picked off during the second drive of the game. On the next possession, he fumbled when trying to escape pressure.

It was an erratic performance for Jackson, who hadn't had a multiple-turnover game all season. But this marked his fourth postseason game in which he has thrown an interception and lost a fumble.

"Protecting the ball -- that's the No. 1 priority, and we didn't do it," Jackson said. "Especially me, I'm the leader. I have to protect the ball, so I'm hot."

The Ravens still haven't won consecutive playoff games in Jackson's seven seasons as their starting quarterback. Now, he has to wait another year before beginning another pursuit for that elusive Super Bowl.

"I have to get over this because we're right there," said Jackson, the only multiple NFL MVP award winner not to win a Super Bowl. "I'm tired of being right there, we need to punch it in. We need to punch in that ticket. We have to get right in the offseason."

Source: ESPN
 

Lions' Ben Johnson as coach agrees to become Bears' coach​

CHICAGO -- Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson has agreed to a deal to become the Chicago Bears' next head coach, Priority Sports, the agency that represents him, announced on social media Monday.

Johnson, who has been the Lions' offensive coordinator the past three seasons, will fill the job vacated by Matt Eberflus when he was fired on Nov. 29. Johnson will be the 19th head coach in the franchise's 105-year existence.

Johnson, 38, was available to be hired after the Lions -- the NFC's No. 1 seed in the playoffs -- were stunned on Saturday night by the Washington Commanders.

A source told ESPN's Adam Schefter that Johnson is already working on assembling his staff, with former New Orleans Saints coach Dennis Allen the leading candidate be hired as Chicago's defensive coordinator. The Bears are also heavily pursuing Saints interim coach Darren Rizzi to be their special teams coordinator, sources told Schefter.

The Bears conducted a virtual interview with Johnson on Jan. 11 during the Lions' first-round bye. He also interviewed with the Jacksonville Jaguars, Las Vegas Raiders and New England Patriots.

Chicago interviewed 17 candidates for its head coach vacancy; three of the interviews were conducted in person with former Commanders/Carolina Panthers coach Ron Rivera, former Dallas Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy and current Tennessee State coach Eddie George.

"We're going to cast a wide net," general manager Ryan Poles said on Jan. 7. "It's going to be a diverse group. This will be different backgrounds from offense, defense, special teams, college, pro. We're turning every stone to make sure we're doing this the right way ... There's going to be some names that you don't expect that are going to surprise you because we're digging deeper than we ever have before."

The Bears were in compliance with the NFL's Rooney Rule after the completion of George's interview on Sunday.

Johnson rebuffed interest from teams the past few years but now will take over in Chicago to coach quarterback Caleb Williams, who said earlier this month that he was intrigued by Johnson's offense with the Lions.

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Bears to hire Lions OC Johnson as new coach

Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson has agreed to a deal to become the Bears' next head coach.
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Vikings, coach Kevin O'Connell agree to multiyear extension​

EAGAN, Minn. -- The Minnesota Vikings and coach Kevin O'Connell agreed Tuesday on a multiyear contract extension, closing an unusual chapter and locking down one of the NFL's top young head coaches.

Terms were not immediately available.

ESPN's Adam Schefter also reported that the Vikings are working on an extension for general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah. Like O'Connell, Adofo-Mensah signed a four-year contract when the Vikings hired him in 2022 and thus has one year remaining on his deal.

O'Connell was displeased after the 2023 season when owners Zygi and Mark Wilf opted against extending his contract, ESPN has reported, at a time when the franchise planned to start over at the quarterback position. Multiple teams were positioning themselves this month to make trade offers if the sides were not able to agree on an extension, as Fox Sports first reported and ESPN later confirmed, given the possibility that O'Connell could always choose to simply work through the expiration of his deal and become a coaching free agent in 2025.

But O'Connell said twice this month that he wanted to remain with the Vikings, and after meeting with the Wilfs last week, he added: "I love our ownership."

O'Connell was not made available for comment Tuesday. In a statement released by the team, he said in part: "It is an absolute honor to continue leading the Minnesota Vikings. Holding this prestigious position is something I never take for granted, and I want to express my sincere gratitude to the Wilf family for their unwavering belief in what we are building together."

O'Connell, 39, joined the Vikings after a two-year stint as the Los Angeles Rams' offensive coordinator. He has a record of 34-17 with two playoff appearances and is one of three coaches in NFL history to record multiple 13-win seasons in his first three seasons. The others are the Green Bay Packers' Matt LaFleur and the San Francisco 49ers' George Seifert.

But while LaFleur and Seifert both had the benefit of a Hall of Fame quarterback, O'Connell won 13 games with Kirk Cousins in 2022 and 14 games with Sam Darnold in 2024. The Vikings will entrust him to develop J.J. McCarthy, the No. 10 pick of last year's draft, as their long-term starter.

"Kevin is exactly who we believed him to be when we named him as our head coach -- an innovative playcaller, an excellent communicator and a strong leader who motivates and connects with his players," Mark Wilf said in a statement. "He has helped establish a culture that positions us for sustained success, and he will continue to set the standard we need as we pursue a championship for Vikings fans."

Source: ESPN
 

Chicago Bears appoint Johnson as new head coach​

The Chicago Bears have appointed Ben Johnson as their new head coach.

Johnson, 38, has been with the Detroit Lions since 2019 and spent the past three seasons as their offensive co-ordinator.

He succeeds Matt Eberflus, who was sacked in November.

"A proven leader with winning pedigree and a mind toward innovation, we are excited to welcome Ben and his family to Chicago as our head coach," said Bears general manager Ryan Poles.

"Throughout our search process I was thoroughly impressed by Ben's character, intelligence, leadership and ability to connect."

The Bears finished bottom of the NFC North this season, losing 10 consecutive matches after a promising start and ending with a 5-12 record.

"The Chicago Bears are a world-class franchise with a phenomenal history and incredible fanbase," said Johnson.

"Having been on the opposing sideline, I can attest to how passionate Bears fans are about this city and their team, and I am honoured to be their head coach."

Source: BBC
 

Sources: Jets hiring Lions DC Aaron Glenn as new coach​

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- On his journey from low-level scout to highly coveted coordinator, Aaron Glenn told friends his "dream job" was to coach the New York Jets -- the franchise that made him a first-round pick in 1994.

It became reality Wednesday, as Glenn -- most recently the Detroit Lions' defensive coordinator -- agreed in principle to become the 18th non-interim head coach in Jets history, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.

The Jets still are looking to hire a new general manager. They conducted an in-person interview with former longtime Lions executive Lance Newmark, the only known candidate to have a second interview. Newmark, the Washington Commanders' assistant GM in 2024, overlapped with Glenn in Detroit from 2021 to 2023. Other candidates are being considered as well, with additional interviews forthcoming.

The Jets long for stability and success. They're coming off their 14th straight season out of the playoffs, the longest active drought across America's four major men's sports leagues. The Jets will try to rebound from a turmoil-filled season that included the firings of coach Robert Saleh and GM Joe Douglas.

Because of the Lions' upset loss to the Commanders in the NFC divisional playoffs, Glenn became available sooner than expected. Wasting little time, the Jets hosted him for an in-person interview Tuesday -- 12 days after his virtual meeting with team officials.

Glenn spent seven hours at the facility and returned to his Detroit home Tuesday night as talks continued. The New Orleans Saints also showed strong interest. He finished his playing career in New Orleans and later became the secondary coach under Sean Payton.

Glenn, 52, a Bill Parcells disciple, joins the late Walt Michaels as the only two players in Jets history to coach the team. Michaels played one game as a player-coach in 1963 before becoming the head coach in 1977. Glenn starred for the Jets from 1994 to 2001, making two Pro Bowls.

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Sources: Jets hiring Lions DC Glenn as new coach

The Jets are hiring Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn as their next head coach, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter on Wednesday.
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NY Jets name former player Glenn as new coach

The New York Jets have appointed their former player Aaron Glenn as the side's new head coach.

The 52-year-old, who has transformed the Detroit Lions' defence over the past four years as the team's defensive co-ordinator, spent eight seasons with the Jets between 1994 and 2001.

After finishing his playing career in 2010, Glenn rejoined the Jets for two seasons as a personnel scout before moving into coaching.

"Aaron earned this opportunity through almost three decades of NFL experience – 10 with us as a player and a scout," said Jets chairman Robert Wood Johnson.

"He brings tremendous leadership skills and the vision this organisation needs to be successful. I am thrilled to see him lead this team."

Glenn, who has had stints with the Lions, New Orleans Saints and Cleveland Browns, has never been a head coach.

"This place is special for me," said Glenn.

"From the time I was drafted and practiced on Long Island, to the time I came back as a scout in New Jersey, this organisation has always felt like home."

Glenn succeeds Robert Saleh, who became the first coach in owner Johnson's 25-year tenure to be sacked by the Jets in October.

The Jets last qualified for the post-season in 2010.

BBC
 

Josh Allen, Saquon Barkley, Lamar Jackson among AP NFL MVP finalists​

Josh Allen, Saquon Barkley, Joe Burrow, Jared Goff and Lamar Jackson are finalists for The Associated Press 2024 NFL Most Valuable Player award.

Barkley, Burrow and Jackson also are finalists for Offensive Player of the Year and Burrow is in the running for Comeback Player of the Year.

The winners will be announced at NFL Honors on Feb. 6. A nationwide panel of 50 media members who regularly cover the league completed voting before the playoffs began.

Here are the finalists, in alphabetical order, for the eight AP NFL awards:

Most Valuable Player: Allen helped the Bills win their fifth straight AFC East title. He threw for 3,731 yards and 28 TDs and had six picks for a 101.4 passer rating. Allen ran for 531 yards and 12 scores.

Barkley ran for 2,005 yards (the eighth-best total in NFL history). He sat out Philadelphia's final regular-season game when he needed 101 yards to break Eric Dickerson's single-season record. Barkley helped the Eagles win the NFC East and advance to the conference championship game.

Burrow led the NFL with a career-high 4,918 yards passing and 43 TDs, but the Cincinnati Bengals finished 9-8 and missed the playoffs.

Goff threw for 4,629 yards, 37 TDs and 9 interceptions and led Detroit to the No. 1 seed in the NFC. The Lions were eliminated in the divisional round by Washington.

Jackson, the reigning winner, is seeking his third MVP award after leading the Ravens to an AFC North title. Jackson had career highs with 4,172 yards passing, 41 TDs (to just four interceptions) and a 119.6 passer rating, which led the NFL. He was a first-team All-Pro for the third time and also ran for 915 yards and four TDs. The Ravens were knocked out of the divisional round by Allen and the Buffalo Bills.

Offensive Player of the Year: Barkley, Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase, Derrick Henry and Jackson are finalists for the award.

Chase won the receiving triple crown, leading the league with 127 receptions, 1,708 yards and 17 TDs. The Bengals star wide receiver was a unanimous selection for All-Pro.

Henry, the 2020 Offensive Player of the Year, had 1,921 yards rushing and 16 TDs in his first season with the Ravens.

Defensive Player of the Year: Eagles linebacker Zack Baun went from mostly playing special teams for the Saints to earning All-Pro honors in his first season in Philadelphia.

All-Pro edge rusher Myles Garrett, the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, had 14 sacks for the Cleveland Browns.

Bengals All-Pro edge rusher Trey Hendrickson led the NFL with 17½ sacks.

Broncos All-Pro cornerback Pat Surtain II allowed just 37 receptions and had four picks, and opposing quarterbacks had a 61.1 passer rating throwing against him

Steelers edge rusher T.J. Watt, the 2021 winner, had 11½ sacks and forced six fumbles.

Offensive Rookie of the Year: Raiders tight end Brock Bowers set a rookie record with 112 receptions, and his 1,194 yards receiving were the most by a first-year player at his position.

Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels led his team to an eight-win improvement and has it one win away from a Super Bowl appearance. He threw for 3,568 yards and 25 TDs and posted a 100.1 rating. Daniels also ran for 891 yards and six scores.

Giants receiver Malik Nabers had 109 catches for 1,204 yards and seven TDs.

Broncos QB Bo Nix helped the team reach the playoffs for the first time in nine years. He had 3,775 yards passing, 29 TDs and 12 picks and ran for 430 yards and four scores.

Jaguars receiver Brian Thomas Jr. caught 87 passes for 1,282 yards and 10 TDs.

Defensive Rookie of the Year: Eagles cornerback Cooper DeJean was among the highest-rated players in the slot, holding opponents to 50 receptions. He had five pass breakups, and quarterbacks had an 82.2 passer rating against him.

Rams defensive tackle Braden Fiske led the team and all rookies with 8½ sacks. He had 51 pressures, 2 forced fumbles and recoveries, 10 tackles for loss and 10 quarterback hits.

Eagles cornerback Quinyon Mitchell allowed 40 receptions and had nine pass breakups, and quarterbacks had an 87 passer rating against him.

Dolphins edge Chop Robinson had 6 sacks, 20 pressures and 8 tackles for loss.

Rams edge Jared Verse had 4½ sacks but led all rookies in quarterback hits (18), pressures (77) and hurries (56). He also had 11 tackles for loss.

Coach of the Year: Detroit's Dan Campbell, Minnesota's Kevin O'Connell, Denver's Sean Payton, Washington's Dan Quinn and Kansas City's Andy Reid are the finalists.

Campbell guided the Lions (15-3) to the NFC's No. 1 seed. Connell led the Vikings (14-4) to the playoffs despite losing Kirk Cousins in free agency and rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy to a season-ending knee injury in training camp.

Payton helped the Broncos (10-8) overcome salary cap woes stemming from the decision to release Russell Wilson and ended a nine-year playoff drought.

Quinn took over a 4-13 team and turned the Commanders into a 12-win playoff team.

Reid had the Chiefs (16-2) back atop the AFC as the No. 1 seed in a quest for a third straight Super Bowl victory.

Assistant Coach of the Year: Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady, Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, Vikings DC Brian Flores, Lions DC Aaron Glenn and Lions OC Ben Johnson made the list.

Comeback Player of the Year: Burrow, Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold, Chargers running back J.K. Dobbins, Patriots cornerback Christian Gonzalez and Bills safety Damar Hamlin are the finalists.

Source: ESPN
 
Allen and Mahomes renew play-off rivalry as Chiefs chase 'three-peat'

NFL Conference Championships

Date: 26 January 2025

BBC coverage: Live text coverage of both games on the BBC Sport website and app, and live radio commentary on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra and BBC Sounds of the Washington Commanders at the Philadelphia Eagles (from 20:00 GMT)

There are just two games left before Super Bowl 59 and the Kansas City Chiefs' bid for NFL immortality remains alive.

Last season they became the first team to win back-to-back Super Bowls since Tom Brady's New England Patriots in 2004 and 2005.

That was the Chiefs' third Super Bowl win in five years, something only three other teams have done.

No team has ever won three straight Super Bowls though.

Kansas City are the number one seed in the AFC Conference so earned a bye for the first week of the play-offs, returning to action with a Divisional Round victory over the Houston Texans last week.

Now they host the Buffalo Bills in Sunday's AFC Championship game (23:30 GMT), meaning quarterback Patrick Mahomes will renew his rivalry with Josh Allen, who is favourite to be named this season's Most Valuable Player.

Yet it is the Philadelphia Eagles, who the Chiefs beat in Super Bowl 57, who are favourites to become NFL champions in New Orleans on 9 February.

They are the NFC's number two seed and host Sunday's other Conference Championship game against this season's surprise package, the Washington Commanders (20:00 GMT).

How have previous back-to-back Super Bowl winners fared?

Eight teams have previously won successive Super Bowls and five of them reached the play-offs the following season.

Two were knocked out in the Divisional Round, while the other three lost in the Conference Championships.

That means Kansas City have already gone as far as anybody else in pursuit of an unprecedented 'three-peat' – and have gone the closest since the Dallas Cowboys in the 1994 season.

Dallas beat Buffalo in their back-to-back Super Bowl wins, ending an agonising run for the Bills. They reached four straight Super Bowls from 1991 to 1994 and lost them all.

Buffalo have not been back since, while Kansas City have played in four of the past five, but even if the Chiefs return this year, the Bills will still hold the record for most consecutive Super Bowl appearances.

Can Bills end Chiefs play-off hoodoo?

Since being drafted in 2018, Josh Allen has helped turn Buffalo into play-off regulars again, with this their sixth straight post-season campaign.

The trouble is, Kansas City drafted Patrick Mahomes in 2017, and the Chiefs have proved their nemesis, knocking them out of the play-offs in three of the past four years.

The head-to-head record for Allen and Mahomes is 4-4 but all Buffalo's wins have come in the regular season.

The highlight of their rivalry was their Divisional Round clash in 2022, one of the greatest play-off games ever. In the final two minutes the lead changed hands three times with 25 points scored, before the Chiefs won 42-36 in overtime.

That was the first of three straight Divisional Round exits for Buffalo, but having returned to the Conference Championships, the Bills Mafia - as their fans are known - and many neutrals feel this could be their year.

"I think America wants the Bills to win," Washington's British defensive end Efe Obada told BBC Sport. "I think they're tired of Kansas City.

"They have their own rivalry going on so that's going to be an amazing game."

As a dual-threat quarterback, Allen has always had huge arm strength and can run the ball, but this season the 28-year-old has become far more efficient and is protecting the ball better.

That's helped Buffalo become the NFL's second-highest scorers with a record of 13 wins and four defeats, including wins over the two teams with the league's best record (15-2) - Detroit and Kansas City. Then last week Buffalo beat Baltimore and Allen's main rival for the MVP award, Lamar Jackson.

This season the Chiefs have made a habit of winning ugly. They have snatched victory in several tight games, giving them the lowest point differential by a team with 14+ wins (+59).

But they are also on a streak of 16 straight wins in one-score games - an NFL record - which suggests they are far more than just 'lucky'.

They also save their best for the play-offs, as Travis Kelce showed again last week. The tight end had 117 receiving yards against Houston, his most in a game all season, and passed legendary receiver Jerry Rice for most post-season receptions (165). Kelce is also close to Rice's records for most post-season receiving touchdowns (19 to 22) and yards (1,903 yards to 2,245 yards).

Will Commanders continue Cinderella story?

Detroit were the NFC's number one seed but were upset by the sixth seed Washington last week, losing 45-31 at home.

That handed Philadelphia home-field advantage for the NFC Championship game and means the Eagles have replaced the Lions as favourites to win the Super Bowl.

Philly had a 14-3 record, with only Baltimore rushing for more yards and Saquon Barkley being the individual rushing leader with 2,005 yards.

He got 205 more in last week's win over the Los Angeles Rams, plus two touchdowns, but Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts picked up a knee injury so has been limited in practice this week.

"Saquon is a once-in-a-lifetime running back, so we've got to get rid of their running game and make them throw the ball," said Obada, who is currently on Washington's practice squad.

As divisional rivals, Philadelphia and Washington faced each other twice in the regular season, winning one apiece.

After being selected second in last year's draft, quarterback Jayden Daniels and new head coach Dan Quinn have helped transform the Commanders' record from 4-13 last season to 12-5. It is the first time Washington have gone so deep into the play-offs since winning the Super Bowl in 1991.

Daniels, 24, is firm favourite for rookie of the year having set rookie records for rushing yards (891) and pass completion (69%). He is only the sixth rookie quarterback to make it this far and aims to be the first to reach the Super Bowl.

And like the Chiefs, Washington have developed a knack for winning tight games. They are on a seven-game winning streak, with five of them won on the game's last play, including their first play-off win in 19 years.

"We're just going to ride on that momentum," Obada added. "Momentum is huge in games like this. We're still seen as the underdog but that generally works in our favour."

BBC
 

Bills S Taylor Rapp (back, hip) out vs. Chiefs​

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. -- The Buffalo Bills will be without starting safety Taylor Rapp for Sunday's AFC Championship Game against the Kansas City Chiefs, coach Sean McDermott said Friday.

Rapp, who is dealing with back and hip injuries, being ruled out puts rookie Cole Bishop in position to start the game alongside starting safety Damar Hamlin. Bishop, 22, has started four games this season because of injuries and played in 16, primarily on special teams.

"Yeah, it's high," McDermott said of his confidence in Bishop. "He's a young player, but at the same time, he's grown. He went through an injury in training camp, missed a lot of time -- that set him back, set his growth back, delayed it at least -- and then came in, and he's grown through each experience, and confident he'll continue to do that moving forward."

The second-round pick out of Utah came in for Rapp after he was injured in the second quarter of the Bills' divisional round win over the Baltimore Ravens. Rapp had an interception against Baltimore before leaving with the injury, in addition to two regular-season interceptions. Bishop has 2 passes defensed, 1 forced fumble and 40 tackles.

"It's easy to say it's just like any other game, but everybody knows it's really not," Bishop said of the game earlier this week. "So being able to just prepare throughout the week, and then once Sunday comes, like you've done everything you can, so at that point there is really nothing you can be nervous for. You prepared, and now you've just got to go make plays."

The Bills are dealing with other defensive injuries as they prepare to go up against quarterback Patrick Mahomes and the rest of the Chiefs' offense. Starting cornerback Christian Benford remains in concussion protocol and is missing Friday's practice because of a personal matter. McDermott said that he expects Benford to be back with the team potentially as soon as later Friday.

Linebacker Matt Milano (hamstring/biceps) and nickel corner Taron Johnson (neck/shoulder) are expected to be full participants in Friday's practice after being limited in Thursday's practice.

www.espn.com

Bills rule out S Rapp, will start rookie vs. Chiefs

Bills starting safety Taylor Rapp will miss Sunday's AFC Championship Game due to back and hip injuries. Rookie Cole Bishop is expected to start in Rapp's place.
www.espn.com www.espn.com
 
HOUSTON -- The Texans have fired offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik after two years in Houston, a source told ESPN on Friday. Houston also fired offensive line coach Chris Strausser and assistant offensive line coach Cole Popovich, according to sources, who added that a decision on the remainder of the offensive staff will be made when the team hires a new offensive coordinator.

The Texans won the AFC South (10-7) in 2024 and reached the divisional round for the second consecutive season, but the offense struggled throughout the year. The Monday after the season concluded, coach DeMeco Ryans said he wanted to take a week to evaluate the staff, and when asked about Slowik's performance, he was short and didn't give a ringing endorsement.

ESPN
 
Trump to become first sitting president to attend Super Bowl

Donald Trump will make history this weekend by becoming the first sitting president of the United States of America to attend the Super Bowl.

The Kansas City Chiefs take on the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans.

The city was devastated by a terror attack on New Year's Day when 14 people were killed on Bourbon Street.

Trump, who was sworn in as the 47th president of the United States in January, is serving his second stint in office.

Though previous presidents have had some involvement in the Super Bowl such as doing the pre-match coin toss from the White House, no sitting president has ever attended the event.

"Security measures have been further enhanced this year, given that this will be the first time a sitting president of the United States will attend the event," Secret Service spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said in a statement.

Earlier this week, US Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said the Super Bowl is "the biggest homeland security event that we do every year".

Trump's attendance is likely to be controversial given his comments about the NFL throughout his political career.

Trump, an outspoken critic of NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, has questioned the patriotism of NFL players who kneel during the playing of the US national anthem.

The taking of the knee was a movement designed to draw attention to the issues of racial injustice in the United States.

Sunday's Super Bowl will be the first in four years that will not display an "End Racism" message in the end zone, a "Choose Love" message will be used instead.

Since taking office, Trump has criticised non-discriminatory hiring practices aimed at improving workplace diversity.

The NFL denies the decision to remove the banners calling to end racism is connected to the current political climate.

"The Super Bowl is often a snapshot in time and the NFL is in a unique position to capture and lift the imagination of the country," NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy told AFP.

"Choose love is appropriate to use as our country has endured in recent weeks wildfires in southern California, the terrorist attack here in New Orleans, the plane and helicopter crash near our nation's capital and the plane crash in Philadelphia."

BBC
 
Australia's MCG to host annual NFL game from 2026

The NFL's international growth has continued with Australia confirmed as the latest overseas host of a regular-season game.

The league had carried out site visits to Melbourne and Sydney to explore the viability of playing in Australia.

And the Melbourne Cricket Ground was selected to stage the first game in the Asia-Pacific region during the 2026 season.

The Los Angeles Rams will be the designated 'home' team for the first game of a multi-year partnership at the MCG, which has a capacity of about 100,000.

The NFL has rapidly been expanding its global reach in recent years, playing in South America for the first time at the start of this season.

Madrid and Berlin will host their first games in 2025, while London will again have three games next season.

The announcement was made in New Orleans during Super Bowl week.

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell had previously said the league were "shooting for" eight international games in 2025.

He said he "expects" to return to Brazil and Mexico next season, with a first game in Ireland "a possibility".


www.bbc.com

NFL Australia: Melbourne Cricket Ground to host first game in 2026

The NFL's international growth continues with Australia being confirmed as the sixth overseas country to be awarded a regular-season game.
www.bbc.com
 
Butker 'prepared' for pressure of playing in front of President

Harrison Butker's field goal proved decisive in Super Bowl 57 two years ago, giving the Kansas City Chiefs a 38-35 win over the Philadelphia Eagles.

With Donald Trump confirmed as a guest for the rematch this Sunday, BBC Sport asked the Chiefs kicker what it will be like playing in front of the US president knowing that the game could again come down to one of his kicks.

"It's exciting," said Butker. "I remember the first Super Bowl I played in, I saw all these celebrities - Jay Z and Beyonce on the sideline, David Beckham up in the stands.

"You know all of these celebrities watch the game on TV but - at least to my knowledge - they're not at Arrowhead Stadium watching our game. To see them in person is pretty cool, and to know that President Trump is going to be there is an honour, and I'm looking forward to playing in front of him.

"I try to make practice as pressure-packed as possible. I think that gives me a lot of confidence going into the game, knowing that I've practiced it over and over.

"Even though President Trump and different celebrities will physically be at the game, I know they're watching on TV normally so once the game starts for the Super Bowl, you have to forget about that and focus on what you can control.

"You can't worry about the people that are watching because that's not going to help you have success on the field."

BBC
 
Dublin's Croke Park to host historic NFL fixture

The National Football League has confirmed a first regular season fixture in Ireland.

The Pittsburgh Steelers will be the host team at Dublin's Croke Park.

Dublin will be one of three new cities to host regular season games next season with fixtures in Madrid and Berlin previously announced.

Friday's announcement comes two days after the NFL said that Melbourne will host Australia's first game in 2026.


www.bbc.com

NFL Ireland: Pittsburgh Steelers to host historic Dublin game at Croke Park

The National Football League confirms that a first regular season fixture in Ireland will be held at Dublin's Croke Park.
www.bbc.com
 
Allen named NFL's MVP for first time

Josh Allen has been named the NFL's Most Valuable Player for the 2024 season.

It is the first time the Buffalo Bills quarterback has won the award, with the 27-year-old being selected ahead of last year's winner Lamar Jackson.

Allen has been one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL since being selected with the seventh overall draft pick in 2018 and has previously been runner-up twice, in 2020 and 2022.

"I feel like my team-mates wanted this more for me than I did," said Allen. "I'm very honoured."

Allen had been favourite to win the award, with his closest rival being Baltimore Ravens quarterback Jackson, who was named MVP for a second time last season.

A true dual-threat quarterback, Allen registered 28 touchdown passes and 12 rushing touchdowns this season.

He became the first quarterback to score multiple rushing and passing touchdowns in back-to-back games, and the first to claim a passing, rushing and receiving touchdown in the same game.

The biggest change in his game, though, has been that he has matured as a leader and protected the ball better.

Allen registered career-low figures for interceptions, sacks and fumbles, as he led Buffalo to a 13-4 record, reaching the play-offs for a sixth straight year.

For the fourth time in five years, the Bills' post-season run was halted by the Kansas City Chiefs, who won the AFC Championship game to reach Super Bowl 59 in New Orleans, where the NFL's annual awards ceremony took place on Thursday.

How does the NFL MVP voting work?

Jackson was named the first-team All-Pro quarterback last month and the same panel of 50 broadcasters/journalists select the NFL MVP.

It was the first time since 1987 that the first-team All-Pro quarterback was not also named MVP.

"I was pretty surprised, given what we know about - typically - how the voting goes," said Allen.

"Lamar was very deserving of this award as well. I've got nothing but love and respect for him and his game."

Panel members used to select just one player but since the 2022 season they have selected their top five players, with a sliding scale of points.

Allen earned 27 first-place votes towards his total of 383 points, while Jackson had 23 towards 362.

Who won the NFL's main awards for 2024 season?

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow was named Comeback Player of the Year for the second time having led the league for passing yards and touchdowns after recovering from the second serious injury of his career.

Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley had 2,005 rushing yards - putting him eighth on the all-time list - and hopes to stop Kansas City winning their successive Super Bowl on Sunday.

Washington's Jayden Daniels won the Offensive Rookie award having almost become the first rookie to reach the Super Bowl as starting quarterback.

The Minnesota Vikings' head coach Kevin O'Connell was names Coach of the Year. He lost his starting quarterback to injury in the off-season but helped back-up Sam Darnold come in and lead the team to a 14-3 record.

  • Most Valuable Player - Josh Allen (Buffalo Bills quarterback)
  • Offensive Player of the Year - Saquon Barkley (Philadelphia Eagles running back)
  • Defensive Player of the Year - Patrick Surtain (Denver Broncos cornerback)
  • Offensive Rookie of the Year - Jayden Daniels (Washington Commanders quarterback)
  • Defensive Rookie of the Year - Jared Verse (Los Angeles Rams linebacker)
  • Comeback Player of the Year - Joe Burrow (Cincinnati Bengals quarterback)
  • Coach of the Year - Kevin O'Connell (Minnesota Vikings)
BBC
 

Sources: Saints expected to hire Eagles' Kellen Moore as HC​

Philadelphia Eagles offensive coordinator Kellen Moore is expected to become the New Orleans Saints' head coach, barring any unexpected developments, league sources told ESPN.

Moore has been the top candidate for the vacant Saints job since completing a pair of interviews with New Orleans last month.

The Saints are making sure they do everything by the book so as not to break any rules and risk any potential penalties. New Orleans learned from the lesson of the Arizona Cardinals, who were penalized for tampering with then-Eagles defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon, who they eventually hired as their head coach.

Arizona and Philadelphia ultimately agreed to a draft compensation penalty as a result of phone call between Gannon and the Cardinals that took place during a no-contact period in advance of Super Bowl LVII.

The Saints, with their history of being in the NFL's crosshairs, don't want to bend or break any rules and therefore will wait until after Super Bowl LIX on Sunday before working to try to finalize any agreement with Moore, according to sources. The sides are not expected to have any challenges to get a deal done, sources said.

Moore is expected to have his salary more than doubled, and possibly tripled, and few would be willing to surrender an opportunity like that to become one of the NFL's 32 head coaches.

Moore privately has told people he is interested in and wants the Saints job, according to sources, and the Saints want him, which is why a deal is expected to get done once the sides can meet again after Super Bowl LIX, barring an unexpected breakdown in contract talks.

Although he declined to elaborate earlier this week, Moore told reporters Monday that he had a "great" experience meeting with Saints general manager Mickey Loomis and other team officials in Philadelphia last week.

Moore has no previous head coaching experience in the NFL, but has enjoyed success as a play caller and oversaw an Eagles attack that ranked eighth in the NFL in total offense (367.2 yards per game) this season, including second in rushing (179.3 yards per game).

The Saints are the last NFL team with a current head coach opening. They fired Dennis Allen during the season, with special teams coach Darren Rizzi filling in on an interim basis.

Commanders offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury opted not to pursue the Saints job, and Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady opted to stay in Buffalo instead of pursuing a second interview with New Orleans. A third candidate, Aaron Glenn, interviewed virtually with the Saints but was ultimately hired as the head coach of the Jets.

Source: ESPN
 

Eagles dominate Chiefs to deny them Super Bowl three-peat​


The Philadelphia Eagles demolished the Kansas City Chiefs to win 40-22 and deny them an unprecedented third straight Super Bowl win.

The Chiefs were playing in their fifth Super Bowl in six years and much of the pre-game hype focused on a potential three-peat.

But the Eagles utterly dominated in New Orleans, in particular their defence, to avenge their Super Bowl defeat by the Chiefs two years ago.

Kansas City's star quarterback Patrick Mahomes was sacked six times and threw two interceptions as the Chiefs' bid for NFL immortality was ruthlessly quashed.

It is the Eagles' second Super Bowl win having claimed their first in 2018, despite the Chiefs managing to keep their star running back Saquon Barkley relatively quiet.

Instead, quarterback Jalen Hurts stepped up to silence those who continue to question his passing game, throwing a superb 46-yard touchdown pass to seal a humbling defeat for the Chiefs.

Victory was revenge for the Eagles' 38-35 Super Bowl defeat to the Chiefs two years ago, when Hurts put in a superb performance but ended up on the losing side.

"I've been able to use every experience and learn from it, the good and the bad, using it as fuel. I couldn't do any of this without the guys around me," he said amid colourful celebrations on the Superdome pitch.

"Defence wins championships. We saw the difference they made in the game today.

"I'm still processing this. I can't wait to enjoy this with my family."

www.bbc.com

Super Bowl 2025: Philadelphia Eagles demolish Kansas City Chiefs 40-22 to win NFL title

The Philadelphia Eagles demolish the Kansas City Chiefs to win 40-22 and deny them an unprecedented third straight Super Bowl win.
www.bbc.com
 
Heck yeah, one of the happiest days of my life.

My Eagles winning the second Superbowl, bringing the 2nd Lombardi trophy to the nest and one of my all time favorite Eagles inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Eric Allen.

So Emotional right now, tears of joy running down the cheeks, thinking of my dad RIP (miss you so much, thinking of you every day)..

FLyy Eagles FLYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY
 

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Never watched a game of NFL until yesterday. Tuned in for the half-time show, and going by SM it looks like people were more interested the half time show and not the actual match.


What a boring one sided game, turned it off after K-Dots performance.

15 minutes felt like 45 mins. The ads were longer than the game itself. The players run for 2 mins and even then most of them at the back are idle.
 
Super Bowl win sees Mailata complete 'greatest story in football'

The Philadelphia Eagles were still celebrating as Jordan Mailata headed into a media room deep inside the Superdome.

As the hulking offensive lineman lumbered on to a chair, one of his compatriots draped an Australian flag around his shoulders.

The Kansas City Chiefs were hoping to become the first team to win three straight Super Bowls in New Orleans.

Instead it was Mailata who made NFL history. He grew up playing rugby league and had not played a single snap when the Eagles drafted him in 2018.

Now he has played in two Super Bowls and this time he became the first Australian to lift the Vince Lombardi Trophy.

It was the latest chapter in what his mentor this week called "the greatest story in football".


www.bbc.com

Super Bowl 2025: Philadelphia Eagles' Jordan Mailata completes 'greatest story in football'

Jordan Mailata worked in construction while trying to become a rugby league player in Australia but has now completed his unique journey to Super Bowl winner.
www.bbc.com
 
Four-time NFL MVP Rodgers to leave the Jets

Four-time NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers is set to leave the New York Jets, the team has announced.

Rodgers, 41, has spent two years with the Jets, but the quarterback suffered a torn Achilles tendon which disrupted his first season in a game against the Buffalo Bills.

Last season, Rodgers made history by having the third-best single-season totals in franchise history, which consisted of 3,897 yards and 28 touchdowns.

"I personally want to thank Aaron for his time at the New York Jets," said chairman Woody Johnson in a statement released by the team.

"His arrival in 2023 was met with unbridled excitement and I will forever be grateful that he chose to join us to continue his Hall of Fame career.

It is reported that the Jets will be looking to bring in a new quarterback, as well as a new coaching staff.

Currently, they already have Tyrod Taylor, Adrian Martinez and 2024 fifth-round pick Jordan Travis on the roster as quarterbacks.


BBC
 
Chargers to play in Sao Paulo as NFL returns to Brazil

The NFL will return to Brazil during the opening week of the 2025 campaign, with the Los Angeles Chargers the designated home team in Sao Paulo.

Their opponents at the Corinthians Arena on 5 September - one day after the season opener - will be announced at a later date.

The Corinthians Arena was the venue when the Philadelphia Eagles beat the Green Bay Packers 34-29 in the first NFL game played in South America last September.

"After a successful and memorable first game in Brazil in 2024, we are delighted to confirm the league's return to Sao Paulo with the Los Angeles Chargers as the designated team in what will be an incredible next chapter in the market," said NFL Brazil general manager Luis Martinez.

The NFL can schedule up to eight league-operated regular-season games internationally and has already announced three in London and one each in Berlin, Madrid and Dublin.

As well as hosting the NFL's first regular-season game in South America in 2024, the Corinthians Arena served as an official venue for both football's 2014 Fifa World Cup and the 2016 Olympics Games.

The NFL also already announced plans to hold its first game in Australia in 2026.


BBC
 
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