WC playoff draw: Italy to face Northern Ireland
Italy will first host Northern Ireland in a World Cup qualifying playoff in March but then would go on the road to reach their first tournament after back-to-back failures at this stage.
Okamoto, Takahashi join NPB stars posted for MLB
Infielder Kazuma Okamoto and pitcher Kona Takahashi are entering MLB’s posting system and will be available to sign as free agents from Friday through Jan. 4.
Texas adds 2nd top-10 women’s hoops commit
Addison Bjorn, the No. 10 recruit in the girls’ SC Next 100 class of 2026, has committed to Texas, giving Vic Schaefer back-to-back top-10 prospects after signing No. 8 Brihanna Crittendon on Wednesday.
Sources: Mixon not expected to play this season
Texans running back Joe Mixon is not expected to return this season because of a foot injury, sources told ESPN.
College Football Playoff Hopeful USC Aims to Upset Oregon on Saturday
No. 16 USC can remain in College Football Playoff contention while putting a conference rival’s playoff hopes in jeopardy by winning at No. 6 Oregon on Saturday.
Look at the ‘ugly corners’ for the best value in Week 13 of the CFB season
With a lack of top-rated matchups, Pamela Maldonado looks in the shadows to find the best CFB bets.
Post on Kris Boyd’s Instagram Says Jets CB Has Started Breathing on His Own
A post on New York Jets cornerback Kris Boyd’s Instagram account on Wednesday said he has started to breathe on his own after being shot in midtown Manhattan early Sunday morning.
Game Changers: Jaelan Phillips Sparks Eagles’ Defensive Resurgence
Acquired at the deadline, edge rusher Jaelan Phillips is helping the Philly defense return to its dominant form from last year’s title run.
Browns, DE Wright reach 3-year, $33M extension
The Browns and defensive end Alex Wright reached agreement Thursday on a three-year, $33 million extension that includes $21 million guaranteed, his agents told ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Italy Has to Beat Northern Ireland, Then Wales or Bosnia to Return to World Cup
Italy was stopped by Sweden from getting to the 2018 World Cup. It was North Macedonia in 2022. Now it is Northern Ireland’s turn.