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Steelers: Three Defensive Players Injured in Opener vs Jets

NFL — Pittsburgh Steelers

Steelers: Three Defensive Players Injured in Opener vs Jets

Update

Coach Mike Tomlin on injuries:
Derrick Harmon – knee – out
DeShon Elliott – knee – out
Malik Harrison – knee – out

Joey Porter Jr. – optimistic about availability
Nick Herbig – optimistic about availability

Pittsburgh edged New York 34–32 on a Chris Boswell 60-yard FG with 1:03 left, but Joey Porter Jr. (hamstring), DeShon Elliott (knee) and Malik Harrison (knee) exited injured. Evaluations ongoing, per Mike Tomlin.

Week 1
Final: Steelers 34–32 Jets

Game Recap

The Steelers opened the season with a dramatic victory over the New York Jets, sealed by a clutch 60-yard field goal from Chris Boswell. Head Coach Mike Tomlin praised the resilience but admitted there’s “room for improvement,” citing the defense’s struggles to contain Justin Fields in his Jets debut.

Player Line
Justin Fields (Jets) 16/22, 218 yds, 1 TD; 48 rush yds, 2 TD
Aaron Rodgers (Steelers) 22/30, 244 yds, 4 TD
Chris Boswell (Steelers) GW FG from 60 yards (1:03 left)

What Tomlin Said

“Our slip was showing in some areas… We didn’t put enough pressure on Justin. There were instances we weren’t good enough.”

Rodgers’ Statement Debut

Aaron Rodgers made a point against the organisation that moved on from him last season, tossing four touchdown passes. “There were probably people in the organisation that didn’t think I could play anymore… nice to remind them I still can,” he said.

Key Takeaways

  • Clutch factor: Boswell remains elite from distance; special teams deliver the winner.
  • QB bounce: Rodgers’ command and red-zone precision lift a new-look Steelers offense.
  • Defensive concern: Edge/contain issues vs QB run; explosive plays allowed.
  • Health watch: Secondary depth tested if Porter Jr./Elliott miss time.
Pittsburgh Steelers celebrate late game-winning field goal vs New York Jets
Pittsburgh celebrates after Chris Boswell’s 60-yard game-winner.

Wicklow SFC: Heavy Bans After Rathnew vs Carnew Emmets Brawl

Disciplinary News

Wicklow SFC: Heavy Bans After Rathnew vs Carnew Emmets Brawl

Five Rathnew players sanctioned with bans of up to five years after off-field brawl in Aughrim. Both clubs fined; appeals remain possible.

Major Sanctions Following Quarter-Final Brawl

Wicklow GAA has issued heavy punishments after shocking scenes at the Senior Football Championship quarter-final between Rathnew and Carnew Emmets in Echelon Park, Aughrim, on 30 August. The match ended in controversy after a serious fight broke out on the terrace in the closing minutes.

Footage of the incident, which has circulated widely on social media, shows a mass brawl involving spectators and individuals entering from the pitch. The violent outbreak lasted for roughly one minute and overshadowed the on-field action.

Bans and Fines

  • Five Rathnew players reprimanded for offences arising from the quarter-final.
  • Bans range from three years to five years, with at least one player sidelined for the maximum term.
  • Both Rathnew and Carnew Emmets handed significant financial penalties.

All parties have the right to appeal the punishments. The sanctions were confirmed by the Wicklow GAA CCC, though details of exact offences remain undisclosed.

Wicklow Senior Championship brawl between Rathnew and Carnew Emmets at Aughrim
Controversial scenes marred the Wicklow SFC quarter-final in Aughrim.

Official Responses

Neither Rathnew Chairperson Harry Murphy nor Carnew Emmets Chairperson Brian Doran commented when approached. Michael O’Neill of the Wicklow GAA CCC also declined to comment, while the Wicklow GAA executive has remained tight-lipped.

“The deliberations will be sent to clubs by the CCC disciplinary,” Wicklow GAA Chairperson Damien Byrne said. “It is only right to let the clubs digest and deal with these matters internally, and no one in the GAA condones this behaviour.”

What’s Next?

The controversy comes just as the Wicklow Senior Football Championship semi-finals approach this weekend, alongside the semi-finals in the Intermediate and Junior grades. Despite the fallout, attention will quickly turn back to on-field matters as the county prepares for a big weekend of knockout football.

Supporters are urged to respect players, officials and fellow fans to ensure a safe and enjoyable championship.


Leinster Rugby Academy: Josh Neill to join in early 2026

Academy News

Josh Neill to join Leinster Rugby Academy in early 2026

Irish-qualified back-row added to the Year One intake; arrival scheduled after he completes his school year in South Africa.

Academy 2025/26
Back-row Forward
Irish-qualified

Announcement

Leinster Rugby Academy Manager, Simon Broughton, has confirmed that Josh Neill has been added to the Year One Academy intake and will link up with Leinster Rugby in the early months of 2026. Neill, an Irish-qualified back-row, currently attends Rondebosch Boys’ High School in Cape Town and was recently named in the South Africa U-18 squad for their summer series against France, England and Ireland.

Neill plays his club rugby with Western Province. His older brother, Jordan, is already based in Ireland and currently plays cricket with the Northern Knights. Jordan has represented Ireland U-19s and made his senior Ireland debut in a One Day International against the West Indies earlier this summer.

Irish-qualified back-row Josh Neill, Leinster Rugby Academy
Back-row prospect Josh Neill will arrive in early 2026 to join Leinster’s Academy group.

Leinster Rugby Academy 2025/26

Year One

Player AIL Club
Tadhg Brophy Naas RFC
Jack Deegan Blackrock College RFC
Connor Fahy Clontarf FC
Páidí Farrell Old Wesley RFC
Lee Fitzpatrick Blackrock College RGC
Todd Lawlor Lansdowne FC
Ciarán Mangan Blackrock College RFC
Alex Mullan Blackrock College RFC
Josh Neill TBC
Mahon Ronan Old Wesley RFC

Year Two

Player AIL Club
Oliver Coffey Blackrock College RFC
Billy Corrigan Old Wesley RFC
Caspar Gabriel Terenure College RFC
Hugo McLaughlin Lansdowne FC
Ruben Moloney UCD RFC
Alan Spicer Clontarf FC
Andrew Sparrow St Mary’s College RFC
Stephen Smyth Old Wesley RFC

Year Three

Player AIL Club
Henry McErlean Terenure College RFC
Liam Molony Lansdowne FC
Conor O’Tighearnaigh UCD RFC

All clubs listed are Energia All-Ireland League (AIL) affiliates where applicable.


John McKee to Captain Leinster as Larmour, Henshaw & Byrne Return for Cardiff Clash

Team News

John McKee to Captain Leinster as Larmour, Henshaw & Byrne Return for Cardiff Clash

Leinster Rugby face Cardiff Rugby in a Bank of Ireland Pre-Season Friendly at Tallaght Stadium (KO 3pm). Tickets remain available.

Venue: Tallaght Stadium
Competition: Pre-Season Friendly
Kick-off: 3:00pm
Buy Tickets
Fixtures & Results

Match Preview & Key Storylines

  • Captaincy: Hooker John McKee leads the side at Tallaght.
  • Big Returns: Jordan Larmour and Robbie Henshaw are back after injury lay-offs.
  • Playmaker Watch: Harry Byrne pulls on the blue jersey after a loan spell with Bristol Bears.
  • Fan Engagement: Returning British & Irish Lions will attend and join a post-match signing session.
  • South Africa Tour Looms: This is the squad’s only pre-season hit-out before the BKT URC opener away to the DHL Stormers.

Confirmed Leinster Rugby XV

# Player Position
15 Hugo McLaughlin Full-back
14 Jordan Larmour Right Wing
13 Hugh Cooney Outside Centre
12 Charlie Tector Inside Centre
11 Andrew Osborne Left Wing
10 Harry Byrne Out-half
9 Fintan Gunne Scrum-half
1 Paddy McCarthy Loosehead Prop
2 John McKee (C) Hooker
3 Andrew Sparrow Tighthead Prop
4 Brian Deeny Lock
5 Diarmuid Mangan Lock
6 Alex Soroka Blindside Flanker
7 Will Connors Openside Flanker
8 James Culhane No. 8

Replacements (from)

Match-day bench to be confirmed from the following wider squad:

  • Alex Usanov, Jerry Cahir, Stephen Smyth, Niall Smyth, Rabah Slimani
  • Billy Corrigan, Mahon Ronan, Conor O’Tighearnaigh, Liam Molony
  • Scott Penny, Cormac Foley, Caspar Gabriel, Ciarán Mangan
  • Ciarán Frawley, Robbie Henshaw, Joshua Kenny, Ruben Moloney, Henry McErlean
Leinster Rugby warm-up at Tallaght Stadium in blue and white kit
Leinster warm up at Tallaght Stadium ahead of the Cardiff Rugby clash.

FAQs

Will there be a signing session? Yes — the returning British & Irish Lions will take part in a post-match signing session for supporters.

Is this the only pre-season game? Yes, this is Leinster’s sole pre-season fixture before departing for South Africa and the BKT United Rugby Championship opener.

Who is captain? John McKee will captain the team from hooker.


NFL Week 1 Review

On week 1 of the new NFL season, three teams – Pittsburgh, San Francisco and Tampa Bay – recorded game-winning scores in the final two minutes of the fourth quarter, the most on Kick-off Weekend since 2022, while the Bills becoming the first team in NFL history to overcome a 15-point deficit in the final four minutes to win in regulation.

Week 1 Wins

Six teams that missed the postseason in 2024 won in Week 1: Arizona, Cincinnati, Indianapolis, Jacksonville, Las Vegas and San Francisco.

The Indianapolis Colts defeated Miami, 33-8, marking their first season-opening win since 2013. They scored on all seven of their offensive possessions, becoming the first team in at least 47 years to score on every offensive possession of a game.

Jones repeats his Giants’ feat

Quarterback Daniel Jones totalled 298 yards (272 passing, 26 rushing) and three touchdowns (two rushing, one passing) with no interceptions in the victory, while rookie tight end Tyler Warren recorded seven receptions for 76 yards in his NFL debut.

Jones is the first quarterback to record at least two rushing touchdowns, one touchdown pass and no interceptions in his first start with a team since Jones accomplished the feat in his first start with the Giants on 22 September 2019.

Warren is the third tight end in NFL history with at least seven receptions in his first career game, joining Keith McKeller (nine receptions with Buffalo on 18 October 1987) and Monty Stickles (eight with San Francisco on 25 September 1960).

Four TD passes for Rodgers on Steelers’ debut

In his Pittsburgh debut, quarterback Aaron Rodgers recorded four touchdown passes with no interceptions and a 136.7 passer rating, while kicker Chris Boswell kicked the game-winning 60-yard field with just over a minute remaining in the Steelers’ 34-32 victory over the Jets.

Rodgers has 28 career games with at least four touchdown passes and no interceptions, tied with Tom Brady for the most in NFL history.

Rodgers also has 35 games with at least four touchdown passes, tied with Pro Football Hall of Famer Peyton Manning for the third-most in NFL history. Only Tom Brady (39 games) and Drew Brees (37) have more.

Rodgers completed eight of 10 play action passes for 71 yards and three touchdowns, tied for his most touchdowns on play action passes in a game since at least 2016.

60+ yards field goal for Boswell

Boswell is the tenth kicker all-time, and first since Tyler Bass on 3 November 2024, with a game-winning field goal of 60-or-more yards in the final two minutes of regulation or in overtime.

Buccaneers’ 23-20 winners over Falcons

In his NFL debut, Tampa Bay rookie wide receiver Emeka Egbuka recorded four receptions for 67 yards and two touchdowns in the Buccaneers’ 23-20 victory over Atlanta, including the game-winning 25-yard touchdown reception with 59 seconds remaining.

Egbuka is the second player since the 1970 merger to record a game-winning touchdown reception in the final minute of regulation or overtime in his first career game, joining Ernest Wilford (with Jacksonville on 12 September 2004).

Packers’ beat Detroit 27-13

Green Bay running back Josh Jacobs rushed for 66 yards and a touchdown in the Packers’ 27-13 victory over Detroit. Since Week 11 of the 2024 season, Jacobs has scored a rushing touchdown in 10 consecutive games, including the postseason.

He becomes the fourth player since 2000 to record a rushing touchdown in 10 consecutive games, including the postseason, joining Pro Football Hall of Famer LaDainian Tomlinson (12 straight games in 2004), Jonathan Taylor (11 in 2021) and Priest Holmes (11 in 2002).

Five receptions for Bowers in Raiders’ victory

Las Vegas tight end Brock Bowers recorded five receptions for 103 yards in the Raiders’ 20-13 victory over New England.

Bowers has 1,297 receiving yards in 18 career games and surpassed Pro Football Hall of Famer Kellen Winslow Sr. (1,275 receiving yards) for the second-most by a tight end in his first 20 career games in NFL history. Only Pro Football Hall of Famer Mike Ditka (1,411 receiving yards) has more.

Rams edge Houston 14-9

Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford passed for 245 yards and a touchdown while wide receiver Puka Nacua had 10 receptions for 130 yards in the Rams’ 14-9 victory against Houston.

Stafford has 60,054 passing yards in 223 career games, tying Matt Ryan (223 games) as the second-fastest player to reach 60,000 career passing yards all-time. Only Drew Brees (215 games) reached the mark in fewer games. Stafford is the 10th player in NFL history to pass for 60,000 yards.

Nacua, playing in his 29th career game, recorded his fifth game with at least 10 receptions and 100 receiving yards, tied with Lionel Taylor (five games) for the most-ever by a player in his first 30 career games.

Nacua has 194 receptions, surpassing Michael Thomas (190) for the second-most ever by a player in his first 30 games, trailing only Odell Beckham Jr. (206).

Nacua has 2,606 receiving yards, surpassing Ja’Marr Chase (2,540) for the third-most by a player in his first 30 games in the Super Bowl era, trailing only Odell Beckham Jr. (3,035) and Justin Jefferson (2,735).

Happy Homecoming for Rory as he claims second Amgen Irish Open

Rory McIlroy poses with the trophy after winning the Amgen Irish Open in a play-off at The K Club. Credit: Warren Little/Getty Images. Photo provided by DP World Tour.

Rory McIlroy won his second Amgen Irish Open title after a play-off with Joakim Lagergren at the Palmer North Course, the K Club, on Sunday evening.

The Irish golfer birdied the third extra hole to delight the home crowds and claim his first victory on European soil since becoming Europe’s first player to complete the career grand slam at the Masters in April.

Eagle Putt Forces Play-Off

Five-time Major winner McIlroy holed a 28-foot eagle putt on his 72nd hole to finish on 17 under par alongside Lagergren and force a play-off in the third of the DP World Tour’s Back 9 tournaments.

Both players went close to eagles at the first time of asking before tidying up for matching birdies in the $6 million event.

McIlroy’s approach on the second extra hole only just cleared the water. Both players achieved the same result as they both claimed a birdie four.

At the third extra hole, Lagergren found the water hazard, allowing McIlroy to win it with two putts and emulate his 2016 Amgen Irish Open victory at the Co Kildare venue.

Delight for McIlroy

McIlroy was full of praise for the home supporters, admitting:

“I feel just so lucky that I get to do this, I get to do this in front of these people. The support has been absolutely amazing all week.

“I thought it was going to be a nice homecoming, obviously coming home with the Green Jacket and all that, but this has been absolutely incredible. This has exceeded all of my expectations. Just so, so happy I could play the way I did this week for all of them and get the win.”

The Co Down golfer continued:

“Hopefully we get a bit of it in a few weeks’ time at the Ryder Cup. But this is absolutely incredible. I love coming home. I love playing in this atmosphere. Moments like this, these are the things you’re going to remember well after your career is over. This is a really special day.

“To do what I did earlier in the year and then to come home and win my National Open, no matter what happens for the rest of the year, that’s a pretty cool year. 2025 is going to go down as one of the best, if not the best of my career.

“I’ve got a big week next week at Wentworth and then obviously everyone’s looking forward to the Ryder Cup. I’m just so happy my game’s in good shape. I feel like I’m playing well and I’m so excited for what’s coming up.”

Final round 66 for Lagergren

Joakim Lagergren emerged from a five-way tie for the lead on Sunday’s back nine at The K Club with a superb round of 66 to finish runner-up in Straffan.

Spaniard Rafa Cabrera Bello made a hole-in-one at the par-three third as he joined countryman Angel Hidalgo in a share of third on 15 under par, while another Spaniard Angel Ayora was two shots further back in fifth alongside overnight leader Adrian Saddier.

McIlroy bogeyed the first, his first dropped shot in 38 holes, but bounced back with a 38-foot putt for birdie at the second and saved par with a good up-and-down at the next.

The now 20-time DP World Tour winner birdied the fourth and then holed from 43 feet at the fifth to move two under for the day and 13 under for the week. He birdied the ninth to join a five-way tie on 14 under as he made the turn.

McIlroy holed a steely par-saver at the 12th and to the delight of the home crowd, before his six-foot putt at the 13th made a full circuit of the hole to drop back in the front edge.

Cabrera Bello joined him at the top with a birdie at the par-five 16th as Hidalgo dropped a shot at the 14th and Ayora set a clubhouse target of 13 under after a 67.

Lagergren eagle on 16th

Lagergren made a spectacular eagle at the 16th to go 16 under as Cabrera Bello’s 67 lowered the clubhouse lead to 15 under and Hidalgo, with a birdie at the 16th, and McIlroy, who parred the 17th, were also on that mark.

Lagergren’s birdie at the last left McIlroy needing an eagle to force a play-off – and after two blows onto the green, he delivered exactly what was required.

Playoff Odds Preview: Quarterbacks Poised to Make 2025 Runs

The NFL playoffs are always defined by quarterback play. Teams with elite talent under center consistently gain the upper hand, while coaching staffs design strategies around those who can handle postseason pressure.

With the 2025 season on the horizon, several quarterbacks stand out as central figures capable of reshaping playoff races and betting markets. This preview examines four quarterbacks who enter the upcoming campaign with unique storylines and strong potential to push their franchises deep into the postseason: Patrick Mahomes, Lamar Jackson, Jalen Hurts, and Baker Mayfield.

Patrick Mahomes: The Standard of Playoff Excellence

Patrick Mahomes continues to set the benchmark for postseason dominance. Under Andy Reid’s leadership, Mahomes has already built a legacy defined by deep playoff runs and Super Bowl appearances. His ability to adapt mid-game, extend plays, and deliver in clutch moments makes Kansas City a perennial contender.

As the Chiefs reload their roster with younger talent, Mahomes’ consistency remains the foundation of their success. Bettors know that with Mahomes, the margin for error shrinks dramatically for opponents.

For sports fans analysing FanDuel playoff odds, Mahomes’ track record adds tremendous value. His presence alone keeps Kansas City near the top of projections, regardless of regular-season challenges.

Lamar Jackson: Balancing Dynamic Play with Postseason Goals

Lamar Jackson enters 2025 as a quarterback who has already proven he can dominate the regular season, but the next step is delivering consistent playoff victories. His dual-threat ability forces defences to prepare for more than just passing, redefining Baltimore’s offensive identity.

With a retooled offence under Todd Monken, Jackson now has a system that balances explosive running with improved passing concepts. This coaching evolution makes Baltimore less predictable, a vital factor in January football.

If Jackson continues developing as a passer, the Ravens could climb higher in NFL playoff predictions and solidify themselves as legitimate Super Bowl contenders in 2025.

Jalen Hurts: Philadelphia’s Relentless Competitor

Jalen Hurts has already shown he thrives under postseason pressure. Leading Philadelphia to a Super Bowl appearance, he proved his poise, accuracy, and leadership. As 2025 approaches, Hurts remains one of the most reliable quarterbacks to deliver playoff success.

The Eagles continue to build around Hurts with a strong offensive line, giving him stability to execute RPOs, quick passing drives, and runs when required. His relentless work ethic inspires teammates, creating playoff chemistry that is hard to replicate.

Philadelphia’s roster strength, combined with Hurts’ proven ability, makes the Eagles a dependable pick for bettors evaluating playoff odds.

Baker Mayfield: Reinvented and Ready for January

Baker Mayfield’s career has been defined by resilience, and his resurgence with Tampa Bay is one of the league’s most intriguing storylines. Once viewed as a journeyman, he now thrives in a system that plays to his competitive edge while limiting mistakes.

Mayfield thrives in big moments, his controlled aggression giving the Buccaneers a dangerous spark. With coaching continuity and a balanced roster, Tampa Bay enters 2025 as a playoff dark horse.

Bettors will keep a close eye on his progress, as Mayfield’s leadership and confidence can tilt postseason matchups. If he maintains this trajectory, he could shift from comeback story to playoff hero.

A Platter of Brilliance

The 2025 NFL playoffs will again highlight the indispensable role of quarterbacks. Patrick Mahomes delivers unrivalled consistency, Lamar Jackson brings unmatched versatility, Jalen Hurts provides proven leadership, and Baker Mayfield offers resilience and renewed momentum with Tampa Bay.

For fans and bettors, understanding each quarterback’s journey is critical when projecting postseason outcomes. Whether it’s Mahomes’ dominance or Mayfield’s resurgence, these four players are set to shape the playoff landscape in 2025.

Gaelic Football Review Committee Publishes Final Report

Football Review Committee Publishes Final Report

The GAA’s Football Review Committee (FRC), chaired by Jim Gavin, has released its Final Report, concluding an 18-month process aimed at reshaping Gaelic football for players and spectators alike. Established in early 2024 by GAA President Jarlath Burns, the FRC reviewed every aspect of the game, trialling new rules during the 2025 season before publishing their recommendations.

Background and Process

The committee undertook one of the most extensive consultation exercises in GAA history, gathering over 15,000 survey responses and hosting provincial workshops, sandbox trial games, and referee consultations. Feedback from players, coaches, administrators, and supporters fed into the trials run across inter-county and club competitions, monitored by the new Games Intelligence Unit.

Key Recommendations

  • 1 v 1 throw-ins at the start of each half, reducing fouls and creating attacking chances.
  • Kick-outs beyond the 40m arc to encourage long kicking and aerial contests.
  • Goalkeeper restrictions – no recycling possession in their own half except inside the large rectangle.
  • 4/3 Structure Rule – at least four players in their own half and three in the opposition half.
  • Solo and Go restarts after fouls to speed up transitions.
  • 40m scoring arc awarding two points for long-range scores.
  • Expanded black card offences covering cynical fouls, dissent, and melees.

Impact and Reception

Survey feedback was overwhelmingly positive. More than 90% of respondents said Gaelic football had improved under the temporary rules, citing faster play, more kicking, and the revival of one-on-one contests. While the Advanced Mark drew mixed reviews, the overall consensus was that the sport is “in an infinitely better state” following the changes.

Next Steps

The proposals will go before Special Congress in late 2025. If approved, the rules will be incorporated into the Official Guide for permanent adoption in 2026, marking a new era for Gaelic football.

New NFL Season – Week 1

The 2025 season kicks off on Friday (1.30am Irish time) when the defending Super Bowl Champions Philadelphia Eagles host the Dallas Cowboys in the opening game of the 106th season of the NFL.

The Philadelphia Eagles can become the 10th team ever to repeat as Super Bowl champions. Since 2000, the defending Super Bowl champions have started the following year with a win on Kick-off Weekend in 20 of the past 25 seasons.

Kansas City Chiefs at Los Angeles Chargers

Week One will see the first of the 2025 NFL regular season games played internationally as the reigning AFC champion Kansas City Chiefs and the Los Angeles Chargers meet on Saturday (1.20am Irish time) at Corinthians Arena in São Paulo, Brazil. This game will be streamed for free on YouTube.

The Chiefs have won seven consecutive games against the Chargers, with each of the last three wins featuring the game-winning go-ahead score in the final seven minutes of the fourth quarter.

New starting quarterbacks

Twelve teams are expected to have a different starting quarterback in Week 1 than started for them to open the season last year: Atlanta (Michael Penix Jr.) Cleveland (Joe Flacco), Indianapolis (Daniel Jones), Las Vegas (Geno Smith), Minnesota (J.J. McCarthy), New England (Drake Maye), New Orleans (Spencer Rattler), the New York Giants (Russell Wilson), the New York Jets (Justin Fields), Pittsburgh (Aaron Rodgers), Seattle (Sam Darnold) and Tennessee (Cam Ward).

Detroit at Green Bay

Since 2021, when Dan Cambell was hired as head coach, the Lions have a 6-2 record against the Packers, including three consecutive wins at Lambeau Field.

Houston at the Los Angeles Rams

The reigning AFC South champion Texans and reigning NFC West champion Rams are set to meet for the first time since 2021. Houston running back Nick Chubb and Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Davante Adams are expected to make their club debuts on Kick-off Weekend.

Baltimore at Buffalo

The only game on Kick-off Weekend that is a rematch from the 2024 postseason, the Bills and Ravens are set to meet for the fifth time in the past six seasons, including the playoffs.

In the 2024 AFC Divisional playoffs, the Bills defeated the Ravens at home, 27-25, while Baltimore earned a 35-10 home win over Buffalo in the regular season in Week 4.

When two-time Most Valuable Player Lamar Jackson (2019 and 2023) and the Baltimore Ravens visit reigning MVP Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills on Sunday, it will mark the fifth time ever that the two most recent MVPs will meet in Week 1.

Tampa Bay at Atlanta

Tampa Bay wide receiver Mike Evans leads all active players with 105 touchdown receptions and ranks second with 12,684 receiving yards entering the 2025 season. This year, Evans can become the first player in NFL history with at least 1,000 receiving yards in each of his first 12 career seasons.

Cincinnati at Cleveland

Cincinnati wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase, in 2024, became the fifth player in NFL history to lead the league in receptions, receiving yards and receiving touchdowns, joining Pro Football Hall of Famers Jerry Rice (1990) and Sterling Sharpe (1992) as well as Steve Smith (2005) and Cooper Kupp (2021).

Since 1970, only three players have led the NFL in receiving yards in consecutive seasons: Pro Football Hall of Famers Andre Johnson (2008-09), Calvin Johnson (2011-12) and Rice (1989-90, 1993-95).

Pittsburgh at the New York Jets

Pittsburgh quarterback Aaron Rodgers enters the 2025 season leading all active players with 503 regular-season touchdown passes and 548 touchdown passes, including the postseason.

This season, he needs five touchdown passes to surpass Pro Football Hall of Famer Brett Favre (552 touchdown passes) for the fourth-most touchdown passes, including the postseason, in NFL history and six touchdown passes to surpass Favre (508 touchdown passes) for the fourth-most regular-season touchdown passes all-time.

Tennessee at Denver

The Tennessee Titans selected Cam Ward with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Since 1967, 19 quarterbacks have been selected with the first pick in the NFL Draft and started in Week 1 of their rookie season, including each of the past five quarterbacks chosen No. 1 overall [Caleb Williams (2024), Bryce Young (2023), Trevor Lawrence (2021), Joe Burrow (2020) and Kyler Murray (2019)].

Minnesota at Chicago

Minnesota quarterback J.J. McCarthy, the No. 10 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, is expected to make his first NFL debut on Kick-off Weekend. McCarthy can become the fifth quarterback since 1990 to make his first career start on a Monday, joining Sam Darnold (September 10, 2018 at Detroit, with the New York Jets), Aaron Rodgers (September 8, 2008 vs. Minnesota, with Green Bay), Philip Rivers (September 11, 2006 at the Oakland Raiders, with San Diego) and Brian Griese (September 13, 1999 vs. Miami, with Denver).

Connacht Rugby name strong side for Sale Sharks pre-season clash – how to watch

Connacht Name Strong Side for Pre-Season Clash with Sale

Connacht Rugby have announced their matchday squad for Friday night’s pre-season friendly against Sale Sharks at the Corpacq Stadium (kick-off 7:30pm), with a number of intriguing selections catching the eye.

Following a convincing win in last week’s behind-closed-doors friendly in Bristol, the coaching team have opted for a number of changes to ensure maximum playing opportunities for the group ahead of the new season.

The headline move sees Seán Naughton start at full-back for the second week in a row. The Academy player impressed against Bristol, and with limited depth at fifteen, this is another valuable opportunity to show his potential. Three more Academy players – Sean Walsh, Daniel Ryan and Matthew Victory – are named among the replacements.

Cian Prendergast captains the side and is joined by several Irish internationals returning to the starting XV after sitting out last week’s fixture. Jack Aungier, Darragh Murray and Shayne Bolton all start, while promising forward Ben Murphy is named on the bench.

At half-back, Jack Carty gets his first start of the season alongside skipper Caolin Blade. With Josh Ioane also in the squad, there’s growing optimism that Connacht could have a very effective playmaking duo to lean on throughout the campaign.

Another player under the spotlight is hooker Dylan Tierney-Martin (DTM). He has the ability to push on again this season, and with outside rumours of an NIQ hooker signing now appearing premature, this could be a defining year for him.

Elsewhere, David Hawkshaw and Cathal Forde form a physical midfield pairing, while Shayne Bolton provides real strike power out wide. In the pack, Denis Buckley, Jack Aungier and Tierney-Martin form the front row, with Josh Murphy and Darragh Murray combining in the engine room. The back row of Prendergast, Sean O’Brien and Sean Jansen provides balance and power.

Connacht XV to Face Sale Sharks

  • 15. Seán Naughton
  • 14. Chay Mullins
  • 13. David Hawkshaw
  • 12. Cathal Forde
  • 11. Shayne Bolton
  • 10. Jack Carty
  • 9. Caolin Blade (C)
  • 1. Denis Buckley
  • 2. Dylan Tierney-Martin
  • 3. Jack Aungier
  • 4. Darragh Murray
  • 5. Josh Murphy
  • 6. Cian Prendergast (C)
  • 7. Sean O’Brien
  • 8. Sean Jansen

Replacements from: Eoin de Buitléar, Jordan Duggan, Sam Illo, Niall Murray, David O’Connor, Paul Boyle, Shamus Hurley-Langton, Ben Murphy, Josh Ioane, Sean Walsh, Byron Ralston, Shane Jennings, Colm Reilly, Daniel Ryan, Matthew Victory.

Sale Sharks XV vs Connacht Rugby

Alex Sanderson has picked a mix of youth and experience – plus one debutant – for Your Sharks’ pre-season friendly against Connacht Rugby at Heywood Road on Friday night.

Summer recruit Jacques Vermeulen starts against the URC side in a back row packed with power, while England u20s star Ollie Davies starts in the number ten shirt.

Sharks’ England and Lions stars are missing from the team having returned to training late, meaning the ever-present Rob du Preez captains the side from outside centre.

Friday 5 September, 7:30pm — Heywood Road

15. Tom Curtis

14. Tom O’Flaherty

13. Rob du Preez (C)

12. Rekeiti Ma’asi-White

11. Obi Ene

10. Ollie Davies

9. Raffi Quirke

1. Simon McIntyre

2. Tadgh McElroy

3. James Harper

4. Ben Bamber

5. Hyron Andrews

6. Jacques Vermeulen

7. Tristan Woodman

8. Sam Dugdale

Replacements: Ethan Caine, Tumy Onasanya, Patreece Bell, Patrick Hogg, Jos Gilmore, Frank Chatterton, Dom Hanson, Nye Thomas, Toby Wilson, Sam Bedlow, Joe Bedlow, Albert Bradshaw.

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