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NFL (American Football)

Steelers reject Bears’ trade request for coach Mike Tomlin

Mike Tomlin Extends Historic Streak, Cements Legacy as One of NFL’s Most Consistent Coaches
Mike Tomlin Extends Historic Streak, Cements Legacy as One of NFL’s Most Consistent Coaches

Just days after Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin confirmed he plans to stay in Pittsburgh, his name is still getting attention from other teams. According to a source, both the Chicago Bears and at least one other team reached out to the Steelers to inquire about the possibility of trading for Tomlin.

However, the Steelers have turned down these requests, informing teams that Tomlin’s contract includes a no-trade clause, as first reported by ESPN.

The interest from other teams comes only a few days after Tomlin told potential suitors to “save your time.” Tomlin, who signed a three-year contract extension last year to become one of the NFL’s highest-paid coaches, has been leading Pittsburgh since 2007.

The Steelers are known for being patient with their coaching staff, having had only three head coaches since 1969. Despite the Steelers’ fifth consecutive first-round playoff exit, the team has no interest in moving on from Tomlin.

The Bears have been speeding up their coaching search in recent days, even conducting an in-person interview with former Dallas Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy on Wednesday. They also interviewed Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith on Wednesday, marking their 11th interview.

Bears show they’re serious

At least the Bears tried. Reaching out to the Steelers about Tomlin’s availability is part of the Bears’ broad coaching search. However, Pittsburgh’s response was clear — they’re not letting Tomlin go. That said, it’s good that the Bears made the attempt. This shows they’re serious about finding the right coach, especially under president/CEO Kevin Warren and general manager Ryan Poles.

That said, the Bears are still looking for their sixth head coach since 2012. Tomlin’s coaching record isn’t much better than Mike McCarthy’s, and McCarthy could play a significant role in developing quarterback Caleb Williams. Under Tomlin, the Steelers have had four offensive coordinators since 2018, and life after Ben Roethlisberger has been difficult.

The Steelers’ search for their next quarterback continues, with neither Kenny Pickett, the 20th overall pick in 2022, nor Russell Wilson helping to solve their issues this season.

Pittsburgh Steelers players celebrates after a touchdown in the 2nd half

If or when Tomlin leaves, it will be on his terms

Every year after the Steelers lose in the first round of the playoffs, rumors swirl about whether Tomlin might be on the move. However, it seems both Tomlin and the Steelers are committed to staying together for the long term.

The Steelers are known for their patience, valuing consistency more than any other team in the NFL. Remember, after a humiliating playoff loss to the Buffalo Bills last season, the organization gave Tomlin a three-year contract extension and a raise. After seven years without a playoff win, they showed confidence in him, so it seems unlikely they would part ways now.

Even though Tomlin’s popularity has dipped and he is nearing a decade without a postseason victory, his job security remains strong. Tomlin’s no-trade clause and his public comments show that he’s dedicated to Pittsburgh and believes he can lead the team to success.

Taking big swings makes sense

Bears general manager Ryan Poles has said the team will look at all possibilities to find the best coach for the job. As shown by the wide range of candidates they’ve interviewed, the Bears aren’t ruling out any options. Kevin Warren, the Bears’ president, has praised the team’s appeal, from the fans to the history to the available salary-cap space and the young quarterback in Caleb Williams. If he believes this is a prime coaching opportunity, he should make bold moves.

The key question is, who else did the Bears contact? This isn’t just about whether Tomlin would be a good fit — he’d definitely be the best coach the Bears have had since Mike Ditka, and McCarthy and Pete Carroll, who have also interviewed, would be solid choices as well. Regardless, it shows that the Bears are serious about improving.

Though a trade for Tomlin is highly unlikely, it’s encouraging to see that the Bears are willing to be aggressive. One thing to watch for, though, is if their broad search causes them to lose a good candidate because they’re taking too long to make a decision. While it’s not a concern yet, the clock could start ticking once in-person interviews ramp up next week.

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NFL (American Football)

Chiefs punch ticket to AFC Championship with Travis Kelce’s record-breaking performance vs. Texans

Travis Kelce celebrates after catching a pass

The Kansas City Chiefs are headed back to the AFC Championship game after a 23-14 win against the Houston Texans in the AFC divisional round. Despite a strong performance from Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud, the Chiefs relied on the play of future Hall of Fame tight end Travis Kelce, who caught seven passes for 117 yards and a touchdown.

Kelce’s biggest play came in the fourth quarter when he caught an 11-yard touchdown pass, extending Kansas City’s lead to eight points less than four minutes into the final period. With this performance, Kelce set a new NFL record for the most postseason games with over 100 receiving yards, surpassing Jerry Rice.

The game began with a 63-yard punt return by Nikko Remigio, which was extended to 78 yards after a Houston penalty. The teams exchanged short field goals before Kareem Hunt scored the first touchdown of the game, set up by a 49-yard reception and run by Kelce.

Despite injuring his left knee early in the first quarter, Stroud continued to play well, leading the Texans on two scoring drives. One of these was a 15-play, 82-yard drive to start the second half, ending with a Joe Mixon touchdown. However, the Texans missed the extra point attempt that could have tied the game.

The Chiefs responded with a scoring drive of their own, capped by Kelce’s touchdown catch. Kansas City’s defense and special teams then stepped up with key plays to secure the win.

Here’s a closer look at how the Chiefs advanced to their seventh consecutive AFC Championship game.

Why the Chiefs won

Kansas City received an outstanding performance from Kelce, who had only one 100-yard receiving game in the regular season. Kelce was supported by rookie Xavier Worthy, who made five catches for 45 yards in his postseason debut. Patrick Mahomes was 12 of 14 for 162 yards and a touchdown when targeting Kelce or Worthy, but was only 4 of 11 for 15 yards on throws to other players.

The Chiefs’ offense improved in the red zone in the second half. After converting just one of three red-zone opportunities in the first half, they scored touchdowns on both of their trips inside the Texans’ 20-yard line after halftime.

Kansas City’s defense also made crucial plays, including timely sacks of Stroud. The Texans quarterback was sacked a total of eight times, with George Karlaftis recording three sacks, including one on a fourth down with under 10 minutes remaining.

Special teams were another bright spot for the Chiefs. Remigio’s long return to start the game set the tone, and Justin Reid’s blocked field goal attempt with 1:52 left and the Chiefs leading by 11 points helped seal the victory.

C.J. Stroud celebrates after the game

Why the Texans lost

Houston fought hard but had too many mistakes that prevented them from making it to their first conference title game. A major issue for the Texans was special teams, as Ka’imi Fairbairn missed two field goals.

Penalties were another problem for Houston. The Texans were penalized eight times for 82 yards, while Kansas City was flagged four times for 29 yards. Some of the penalties on Houston were questionable, but others were clear.

While Houston’s defense played well for most of the game, it struggled in the second half, especially in the red zone, and allowed too many big plays to Kelce.

Offensively, the Texans’ offensive line had trouble protecting Stroud, but the offense still played well overall. Stroud was able to connect with Nico Collins, Dalton Schultz, and Xavier Hutchinson for a combined 13 passes and 196 yards. Houston’s offense also outrushed the Chiefs, 149-50.

If the Texans had all their receivers healthy, it’s possible they could have won the game.

Turning point/play of the game

The turning point came after Houston missed an extra point and had a chance to tie the game. The Chiefs regained control on their next drive when Mahomes found Kelce for a touchdown while he was falling to the ground.

Quotable

There were some controversial calls during the game, many of which went against the Texans. Hall of Fame quarterback Troy Aikman, who was calling the game for ESPN, commented on the penalties.

“We knew going into this game, man, it was us versus everybody,” said Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans after the game, referring to the officiating. “When I say everybody, I mean everybody. The naysayers, the doubt. Everybody we had to go against again today. Going into this game knowing what we were up against, we can’t make the mistakes we made. We had a lot of self-inflicted mistakes.”

What’s next

The Chiefs will face the winner of the Ravens vs. Bills game in Buffalo. Kansas City won their season opener against the Ravens but lost to the Bills in their regular-season matchup.

Houston, on the other hand, won the AFC South division title and a wild-card round playoff game. They will hope to improve their protection, special teams, and receiving corps for another playoff run next season.

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NFL (American Football)

Cowboys’ NFC Championship drought continues as Commanders’ victory hands Dallas an unwanted streak

Dallas Cowboys players in the 1st half

Even when the Dallas Cowboys are not in the NFL playoffs, they are still part of the playoff conversation.

This year, the Cowboys missed out on making the NFC playoffs, ending their hopes of breaking a long NFC championship game drought.

The Washington Commanders, a team in the same NFC East division, had the longest drought for making an NFC championship game, but they ended that on Saturday night by defeating the Detroit Lions 45-31 in the NFC divisional round.

This situation has shown that it might not be so hard for the Cowboys to catch up with their rivals after all.

The last time Dallas played in an NFC championship game was during the 1995 NFL season. More specifically, it was on January 14, 1996, when the Cowboys beat the Green Bay Packers to reach Super Bowl 30. In that Super Bowl, they went on to defeat the Pittsburgh Steelers, securing the Cowboys’ fifth and final Super Bowl win.

Now, as Dallas looks for a new head coach to help them return to that level, there is extra pressure not only to add another Super Bowl ring but also to at least get close to winning one again.

Dallas Cowboys players celebrates after a touchdown

When was the last time the Cowboys went to the NFC championship game?
The Cowboys’ most recent NFC championship game appearance was on January 14, 1996. That season, they finished with a strong 12-4 record and earned a first-round bye. In the divisional round, they beat their bitter rivals, the Philadelphia Eagles.

Then, they won the NFC championship by defeating the Packers, and later triumphed over the Steelers in Super Bowl 30 with a score of 27-17.

When did the Cowboys last make the playoffs?
While the Cowboys did not make the playoffs in 2024, they were in the playoffs in 2023. Unfortunately, they lost to the Green Bay Packers in the wild-card round that year.

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NHL (National Hockey League)

Blackhawks Lose by a Hair to Oilers in 4-3 Matchup

Oilers rally for a narrow 4-3 victory against the Blackhawks (Edmonton Oilers)

The Edmonton Oilers faced off against the Chicago Blackhawks and narrowly secured a 4-3 victory on Saturday night (Jan. 11).

Despite enduring another lackluster start, the team managed to clinch two crucial points, overcoming stretches of subpar performance.

Initially, they appeared disengaged, falling behind 3-1 midway through the second period.

Edmonton battles back after a sluggish start to claim two crucial points (Edmonton Oilers)

However, following the Blackhawks’ third goal, Edmonton ramped up their game, gaining control in the offensive zone and orchestrating a comeback.

While the win was far from flawless, the team accomplished what was needed. Here are five takeaways from this Western Conference clash.

Oilers with Another Sleepy Start

Mirroring their previous encounter with the Pittsburgh Penguins, the Oilers exhibited a sluggish first period against the Blackhawks.

In their last game, they were down 4-1 after 20 minutes, and this time they trailed 2-0 against the league’s last-place team.

Once more, Edmonton seemed unprepared, allowing Chicago to take full advantage of their lack of urgency. Although the Oilers had a few decent chances in the opening frame, their offensive presence was limited.

Many opportunities were short-lived, and the Blackhawks effectively transitioned the puck up the ice.

It is essential for the Oilers to start games with better intensity; failing to do so will allow more competent teams to capitalize and maintain leads.

Oilers Need to Upgrade Fourth-Line Centre

This game underscored the necessity for Edmonton to seek improvements at the fourth-line center position, as Derek Ryan has not proven to be the solution.

He returned to the lineup after being a healthy scratch in recent games, stepping in for Jeff Skinner, who was scratched for the second time this season.

At 38 years old, Ryan’s age is evident, as he struggles to keep pace with the game. He lacks the skill and speed required to compete at the NHL level, consistently losing puck battles and being outmuscled along the boards.

The energy and grit expected from a fourth-line player are missing, as evidenced by multiple turnovers during his team-low eight minutes of ice time.

It reached a point where Connor McDavid took a few changes with Ryan’s linemates, Kasperi Kapanen and Corey Perry, in the second period.

With just one goal and five points this season, Ryan’s reliability in the defensive zone is questionable, raising the issue of his overall value to the lineup.

While Mattias Janmark filled in at center during Ryan’s healthy scratch period, he is naturally a winger and should remain in that position. Consequently, the Oilers need to pursue a better fourth-line center before the Trade Deadline and consider waiving the veteran forward.

Connor vs. Connor Disappoints

This highly anticipated matchup featured a showdown between two generational talents, Connor McDavid and Connor Bedard. However, by the game’s conclusion, neither player was a focal point of discussion.

Connor McDavid and Connor Bedard matchup fails to ignite the ice (Edmonton Oilers)

Both finished pointless, with a minus-2 rating for the evening. Bedard did not even register a shot on goal, while McDavid managed just one. From an offensive standpoint, this game was forgettable for both stars.

Oilers Get Secondary Scoring

In their last game against the Penguins, Leon Draisaitl led Edmonton with two goals in a 5-3 loss. The team’s top players were the sole contributors, resulting in both Draisaitl and McDavid exceeding 26 minutes of ice time.

Trailing 3-0 less than halfway through the first period prompted head coach Kris Knoblauch to put the two superstars together for the remainder of the game.

However, despite facing an early deficit in this matchup, the Oilers remained composed and did not panic. They received outstanding scoring contributions from their depth players, a departure from the previous game.

Vasily Podkolzin netted his fifth goal, Adam Henrique scored his sixth, and Corey Perry added his seventh, all in the second period, leveling the game and setting the stage for a third-period victory.

Henrique has recently rediscovered his offensive prowess, scoring three goals in his last three games. After some initial struggles, the 34-year-old veteran has regained his form and is contributing at a crucial time.

If he can maintain this level of production moving forward, the Oilers will be in a strong position. Reliable secondary scoring is vital as the playoffs approach, making it essential for him to continue this trend.

Oilers’ Power Play Was the Difference-Maker

Taking advantage of their single power-play opportunity, the Oilers capitalized effectively. Zach Hyman scored the eventual game-winning goal from close range just 7:18 into the third period, putting Edmonton ahead 4-3 and completing the comeback.

Hyman now has 14 goals this season, recording his 11th since being left off Team Canada’s roster for the 4 Nations Face-Off. Edmonton’s power play has improved to 24.8% for the season, ranking eighth in the NHL. Their special teams came through in this crucial game.

With the victory, the Oilers improved to 26-13-3, continuing a tight battle with the Los Angeles Kings for second place in the Pacific Division.

The team is about to enter a challenging stretch, facing six opponents currently in playoff positions, starting on Monday (Jan. 13) when they host the Kings in a critical divisional showdown.

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NHL (National Hockey League)

Rangers Defeat Utah Hockey Club 5-3 in Strong Performance

Rangers secure a thrilling 5-3 victory over the Utah Hockey Club (New York Rangers)

The New York Rangers achieved a victory over the Utah Hockey Club with a score of 5-3 on Thursday, marking their sixth consecutive game with at least a point (4-0-2).

Since suffering a 7-4 defeat to the Washington Capitals on January 4, they have earned 10 points out of a possible 12.

Igor Shesterkin nearly scores a goalie goal in a dramatic third period (New York Rangers)

This win allows the Rangers to surpass the idle Pittsburgh Penguins (44 points) and puts them four points behind the Bruins (49 points) for the second and final wild card spot in the Eastern Conference.

Head Coach Peter Laviolette acknowledged that while securing two wins in a three-game road trip is a positive outcome, the one loss cannot be ignored.

“We’re still frustrated about the one we lost,” Laviolette stated after the game. “It was a good road trip. Even going back prior, I think we’ve been playing some good hockey.

We’ve just got to continue to do that. We’ve got to remember what’s gotten us here. We’ve got to take that into every game, that mindset of what works for us right now. If we can do that, then we’re going to get a chance.”

Key Takeaways from the Rangers’ Victory

Let’s analyze how the Rangers secured their latest win, highlighting four important aspects of the matchup.

1. Arthur Kaliyev Scores First Goal as a Ranger

With only 3:35 left in the first period, Filip Chytil’s shot made its way past Utah goaltender Karel Vejmelka and landed in the crease. Kaliyev charged into the blue paint and nudged the puck into the net, leveling the score for the Rangers and marking his first goal as a Blueshirt.

Kaliyev stands out as the first player born in Uzbekistan in NHL history to score a goal, though he grew up on Staten Island, giving him a local connection to the New York team.

Coach Laviolette shakes things up by benching Matt Rempe for offensive spark (New York Rangers)

He was claimed off waivers from the Los Angeles Kings on January 6, a move aimed at revitalizing his disappointing season. This decision appears to be fruitful, as the Blueshirts have garnered points in seven of their last eight games (5-1-2).

2. Shesterkin’s Empty-Netter Attempt

As the third period wound down, Utah opted for an empty net while trailing 4-3. At the 18:23 mark, goaltender Igor Shesterkin took a shot that narrowly missed the left side of the goal.

The near-goalie goal energized the crowd at the Delta Center and sparked the Rangers’ offense. Moments later, Artemi Panarin scored his second goal of the evening, solidifying the final score at 5-3.

3. Matt Rempe Benched

To ignite the offensive spark, Coach Laviolette appeared to bench 22-year-old Matt Rempe midway through the second period.

The forward and enforcer logged only 5:33 of ice time on Thursday night in Salt Lake City, his fourth-lowest total for the season.

Will Cuylle stepped in for Rempe on the fourth line, experiencing a boost in ice time from 13:28 against the Avalanche on Tuesday to 16:18 in the game against Utah, thanks to double shifting after taking over Rempe’s role.

4. A Strong Third Period

The Rangers entered the third period down 3-2 and faced a penalty kill, leading many to believe Utah would increase its lead and gain an advantage for the final points.

Just 28 seconds into the period, Reilly Smith’s shot deflected off a Utah stick, finding the back of the net and equalizing the game.

Following Smith’s goal, the momentum shifted in favor of the Rangers, who limited Utah to just five shots on goal during the final 15 minutes, with the opposing team going nearly 11 minutes without registering a shot.

This change in momentum directly led to veteran Chris Kreider netting the game-winning goal, which came right off a faceoff win in the offensive zone on a knuckleball that slipped past Utah’s Karel Vejmelka, occurring less than 30 seconds after their final power play expired.

Panarin’s empty-net goal capped off the third period and the game, sealing the Rangers’ success.

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NHL (National Hockey League)

Victory Over Stars Helps Canadiens Extend their Point Streak

Rangers fall in a 5-4 overtime thriller against the Canadiens (New York Rangers)

A thrilling match took place as the Rangers faced off against the Canadiens, culminating in a 5-4 overtime defeat.

The game featured numerous goals, intense fights, remarkable saves, several lead changes, and breakaway chances, providing excitement for both teams.

Despite the loss, the Rangers maintained their point streak, extending it to eight games with a record of 5-0-3 during this stretch.

Alexis Lafreniere shines in his hometown with an opening goal for the Rangers (New York Rangers)

While there were four ties throughout the contest, the Rangers only trailed once when Montreal’s Patrick Laine scored the game-winner in overtime, marking his 12th goal of the season in just 18 games.

This setback was particularly frustrating for the Rangers, who let another potential victory slip through their fingers.

The defeat mirrored a previous 5-4 overtime loss they experienced against the Stars, where they held a 3-0 lead before allowing Dallas to come back and finally win.

Key Moments for the Rangers

Despite missing a point, the Rangers still secured a vital point, bringing their total to 48 points. They are currently tied with the Philadelphia Flyers and trail the Columbus Blue Jackets by three points for the second wild card spot in the Eastern Conference.

The Rangers have not lost a game in regulation at Madison Square Garden since December 22, with their last regulation defeat occurring against the Chicago Blackhawks on January 4.

On a positive note, following Sunday’s match, seven of the Rangers’ remaining nine games before the Four Nations Face Off tournament in mid-February will be played at home in front of their fans at MSG.

Stellar Performance by Jonathan Quick

Although Jonathan Quick missed the opportunity for his 400th career win for the third straight time, he delivered an impressive performance throughout the night.

The three-time Stanley Cup champion recorded 33 saves, reaching over 30 saves for the third time in his last four starts. The Canadiens could have scored more if not for Quick’s outstanding play from the beginning to the end of the match.

Jonathan Quick dazzles with 33 saves but narrowly misses his 400th career win (New York Rangers)

He made several remarkable stops, particularly in the third period, where he had 15 saves. A standout moment occurred late in the first period when Quick, having lost his goalie stick during a scrum, utilized a player’s stick to make a save, preserving the Rangers’ 2-1 lead.

Quick will have additional chances to secure his milestone, as the Rangers have two upcoming back-to-backs—February 1 against the Boston Bruins and February 2 against the Vegas Golden Knights, or February 7 against the Pittsburgh Penguins and February 8 at the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Among active goaltenders in the NHL, Quick ranks third in wins with 399, trailing Marc-Andre Fleury and Sergei Bobrovsky. He leads all U.S.-born goalies with nearly 100 more wins than the closest active American-born goaltender, Connor Hellebuyck, who has 303 wins.

Rangers Forwards Find Scoring Touch

In Saturday’s game against the Columbus Blue Jackets, the Rangers faced a challenging situation, finishing with only 26 shots in regulation and overtime, scoring their sole goal in a shootout victory.

Quebec native Alexis Lafreniere made a triumphant return to his hometown by opening the scoring with his 12th goal of the season, a relief after managing only three goals in his previous 27 games leading up to Sunday night.

When the Canadiens equalized at 1-1, the Rangers quickly responded with a goal from Will Cuylle just 46 seconds later, taking advantage of a Montreal turnover to find the net and ending a 15-game goal drought.

Mika Zibanejad helped the Rangers regain the lead by breaking a 2-2 tie with a power-play goal, concluding a seven-game stretch without a goal. Though Chris Kreider did not receive an assist on the play, his presence effectively screened Canadiens goalie Jakub Dobes.

Tensions Rise Between Teams

Tensions flared early in the second period as Matt Rempe and Arber Xhekaj exchanged punches after a heated first period.

Standing at 6-foot-7 and weighing 241 pounds, Rempe faced off against Xhekaj, who is 6-foot-4 and 240 pounds, and both landed blows until the referees intervened.

After the fight, the Canadiens received a power play but were unable to capitalize. However, they quickly tied the game at 2-2 once the teams returned to even strength.

The on-ice drama continued, leading to the Rangers’ only power-play goal of the night, with Zibanejad scoring to give the Blueshirts a 3-2 lead midway through the second period.

As this marked the third and final meeting of the season between these two Eastern Conference teams, fans can expect another matchup between Rempe and Xhekaj in the upcoming season.

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NHL (National Hockey League)

NHL Milestone: Alex Nedeljkovic, Penguins Goalie, Scores Goal and Adds Assist

Alex Nedeljkovic makes history with a goal and assist in a single NHL game (Pittsburgh Penguins)

In a remarkable moment for the NHL, goalie Alex Nedeljkovic etched his name in history. While playing against the Sabres on Friday, he scored a goal from the opposite side of the ice during the final minutes of the game, becoming the first goalie ever to achieve both a goal and an assist in the same NHL game.

After netting the goal, Nedeljkovic celebrated by jumping onto the Penguins’ bench, where his teammates quickly surrounded him in celebration.

Goalie scores and sets up a goal as Penguins secure a 5-2 victory (Pittsburgh Penguins)

His empty-net goal came at 17:18 of the third period, concluding a strong five-goal performance by the Penguins, who defeated the Sabres 5-2.

Milestone for the Penguins’ Goaltender

Earlier in the game, Nedeljkovic recorded an assist by setting up forward Cody Glass in the second period. With this goal, he became only the second goaltender in Penguins history to score, following Tristan Jarry, who accomplished this feat last season.

Throughout NHL history, only 16 goaltenders have managed to score, contributing to a total of just 19 goals. The last instance of a goaltender scoring occurred earlier this season, when Wild goalie Filip Gustavsson found the net during an October game against the Blues.

Nedeljkovic’s goal also marks a milestone as it’s the first season to witness multiple goaltenders scoring.

Martin Brodeur, a legendary figure for the Devils, holds the record for the most goals scored by a goaltender, having achieved this three times during his illustrious 22-year NHL career.

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NHL (National Hockey League)

Different Brand of Hockey Fuels Rangers’ Recent Success

Rangers gain momentum with six-game point streak ahead of Blue Jackets clash (Rangers)

The Rangers have maintained a consistent record about their games throughout the past few weeks. While their standing and outcomes haven’t dramatically changed, they have shown noticeable progress from their lowest points during the season’s decline.

Following a successful three-game West Coast trip where they earned five out of a possible six points, the Rangers finally have results to validate their claims.

Rangers eye playoff position after earning points in seven of last eight games (Rangers)

They’ve managed to collect points in seven of their last eight games, heading into Saturday’s matchup against the Blue Jackets with a six-game point streak.

This stretch marks the beginning of a four-game series against teams they can compete with as they pursue a playoff position.

A Surge in Performance

Reilly Smith shared his thoughts after a 5-3 victory against the Utah Hockey Club on Thursday, stating, “It seems like ever since Christmas, we’re playing a different brand of hockey.”

This indicates that the Rangers are gaining momentum compared to earlier in the season and have the opportunity to surpass teams in the standings if they can continue to accumulate points and wins.

Currently, the Rangers trail the Bruins by four points for the second wild-card spot. Meanwhile, the Blue Jackets, who have secured six consecutive wins, are just five points ahead but started the year with a record of 16-17-6.

This weekend marks the Rangers’ first encounter with the Blue Jackets during the 2024-25 season, and they have won five of their last seven meetings against Columbus.

Following this game, the Rangers will face the Canadiens, Senators, and Flyers, all of which currently sit ahead of them but outside the playoff picture.

Against these teams, the Rangers hold a 4-1 record this season and are trailing them by two points, two points, and one point, respectively, in the wild-card race.

Even during their toughest stretch, the cluster of teams around the Eastern Conference wild-card spots offered the Rangers a potential pathway to salvage their season.

This opportunity could allow them to make necessary adjustments as they approach the trade deadline, putting them in a position to reshape their roster for a final push toward the postseason with their current core players.

While they still have a long way to go to reach that goal, the Rangers have made strides in the right direction following their recent performance.

Future Prospects and Team Dynamics

As they prepare for the upcoming games, maintaining their current surge could facilitate their ascent in the standings.

Reilly Smith credits post-Christmas changes for Rangers’ improved play (Rangers)

Artemi Panarin emphasized the importance of their recent success, saying, “That’s important for sure. It’s a great road trip for us, and we’re gonna be ready for the next game. Pretty important game against Columbus.”

After Arthur Kaliyev scored on Thursday for his first point since joining the Rangers, it’s noteworthy that the team has seen contributions from 26 different players this season, tying for the highest in the NHL.

Kaliyev, who was signed off waivers last week, has also logged at least 12 minutes of ice time in two of the last three games.

As the Rangers face a back-to-back challenge this weekend, goaltender Jonathan Quick is likely to have another opportunity to become the first U.S.-born goaltender to achieve 400 career wins. Quick remains at 399 after losing his last two starts.

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NFL (American Football)

Predictions and Matchups for the 2025 NFL Divisional Round

NFL playoffs enter the final stretch with fans bracing for high-stakes action (NFL)

As the NFL playoffs edge closer to their conclusion, fans are bracing for the transition from weekly games to months of anticipation before September’s kickoff.

This weekend will determine the final contenders in each conference, with one team finally standing victorious after three more wins.

Conference contenders gear up for decisive battles this weekend (NFL)

Wild Card Weekend, while devoid of thrilling finishes or surprising outcomes, has set the stage for high-stakes clashes that promise to capture in the coming rounds.

When early upsets are absent, tournaments often build toward exceptional matchups, and this year’s playoff trajectory seems to follow that trend.

Here’s a breakdown of the four games this weekend and some potential betting angles to consider.

Kansas City Chiefs vs. Houston Texans: A Clash of Styles

Placing a bet against Patrick Mahomes can feel daunting, but the Chiefs’ record this season offers some interesting insights. Out of their 15 wins, only four have been by double digits.

A unique factor here is the team’s recent schedule—resting starters in Week 18, enjoying a bye last weekend, and playing their Week 17 game midweek during the holiday season—leaving room for unpredictable outcomes.

With the Texans boasting a strong defense but lacking offensive firepower, this matchup leans heavily on Kansas City’s advantage in overall team health. The under seems like the safest wager, given Houston’s limited scoring ability and the Chiefs’ defensive strength.

Detroit Lions vs. Washington Commanders: Can Momentum Topple Consistency?

The Washington Commanders have sparked interest this week after Jayden Daniels’ thrilling last-second drive against Tampa Bay.

However, Detroit’s potent offense and formidable home-field presence may prove too much for Washington’s defense, particularly against the run.

Chiefs and Texans clash with defense and health shaping the outcome (Kansas City Chiefs)

A bet worth exploring here is under 5.5 punts for the game. Both teams display a high level of aggression on fourth downs, and their offenses are unlikely to suffer frequent three-and-outs. This approach could make for an unconventional but promising betting choice.

Los Angeles Rams vs. Philadelphia Eagles: Tough Test for the Underdogs

The Rams head into this matchup riding high after dismantling the 14-3 Vikings in a commanding 27-9 victory. With seasoned leaders like Matthew Stafford and Sean McVay, alongside a ferocious pass rush, Los Angeles has the tools to compete.

However, traveling from warm Los Angeles to a frigid, hostile environment in Philadelphia on a short week presents an uphill battle.

The Eagles’ home-field advantage, coupled with the weather conditions, makes this a challenging assignment for the Rams despite their impressive wild-card performance.

Baltimore Ravens vs. Buffalo Bills: A Heavyweight Showdown

This matchup, featuring two MVP-caliber quarterbacks, feels more fitting for a championship game than a divisional round clash. Both Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen are top-tier talents, but the Ravens have a secret weapon in Derrick Henry.

Baltimore’s previous encounter with Buffalo in Week 4 saw Henry dominate with 199 rushing yards, leading to a decisive 35-10 victory. The Ravens averaged an astounding eight yards per play in that game, doubling Buffalo’s output.

While both teams are evenly matched, the Ravens’ balanced attack and Henry’s impact give them a slight edge in what promises to be the weekend’s most electrifying contest.

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NFL (American Football)

Lions Strategize to Neutralize Jayden Daniels’ Impact

Commanders’ offensive line struggles could be a decisive factor against the Lions (Washington Commanders)

The Washington Commanders this season bear some resemblance to last year’s Detroit Lions. Both teams began with moderate expectations, aiming only for improvements over their previous campaigns.

When they made the playoffs, their supporters hoped for a single victory to label the season as a success.

The Lions managed two playoff wins and were just a half away from their first Super Bowl appearance. Now, Detroit finds itself in a position to prevent Washington from achieving a similar postseason surge.

Detroit Lions prepare to stop the Commanders’ postseason momentum (Detroit Lions)

The exceptional play of Jayden Daniels, their first-round selection in the 2024 NFL Draft, has driven Washington’s rise under its new leadership.

Daniels, widely regarded as the front-runner for the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award, has orchestrated four game-winning drives and led the Commanders to an impressive 12-5 record.

The Importance of Containing Daniels

For Detroit to avoid being upset, the Lions must disrupt Daniels’ rhythm, which has been instrumental in his team’s success.

His ability to perform under pressure and make plays has turned him into a formidable challenge for defenses. Limiting his impact is essential for Detroit to secure a spot in the NFC Championship game.

Addressing Offensive Line Challenges

Daniels needs ample time in the pocket to perform at his best, but Washington’s offensive line has struggled. They rank seventh in sacks allowed (50) this season and have the 11th-lowest pass-blocking grade (63.4), as reported by PFF.

Right guard Sam Cosmi, despite being the highest-rated lineman on the team, has committed the most penalties (six) among starters.

On the other hand, rookie left tackle Brandon Coleman has struggled the most, with a PFF grade of 58.7, conceding nine sacks and 35 pressures this season.

The Lions’ defensive line must capitalize on these vulnerabilities, especially targeting Coleman and left guard Nick Allegretti, who are the weakest links.

While blitzing is an option, aligning Za’Darius Smith against Coleman could prove more effective. To add to Coleman’s woes, he was recently added to the injury report with a shoulder issue, though he practiced fully on Wednesday.

Strategizing Against the Blitz

Detroit’s defensive coordinator, Aaron Glenn, has relied heavily on blitzes, with the Lions blitzing on 34.6% of plays this season—the second-highest rate in the league behind the Minnesota Vikings.

This aggressive approach has been a cornerstone of their success, but it may require adjustments against Daniels. According to PFF, Daniels holds the ball for an average of 2.98 seconds—one of the longest among playoff quarterbacks.

Detroit Lions defense focuses on containing Washington’s dynamic rookie quarterback (Detroit Lions)

Surprisingly, he has excelled when blitzed, throwing 12 touchdowns and just three interceptions in such situations, compared to 15 touchdowns and six interceptions when not blitzed. Therefore, an all-out blitz might backfire.

Instead, the Lions must focus on containment rather than relentless pressure. Keeping Daniels inside the pocket will be key, as his mobility poses a serious threat.

Glenn emphasized the need for discipline, stating, “You have to be strategic in your rush, send additional players, and close off as many lanes as possible.”

Managing a Mobile Quarterback

Dealing with a quarterback like Daniels, who can create plays with his legs, presents numerous challenges. From designed runs and read-options to scrambles and extended plays, there’s a lot to defend.

Lions head coach Dan Campbell pointed out that no team has mastered the art of shutting down mobile quarterbacks.

Detroit’s defense has allowed 6.2 yards per carry against quarterbacks this season, ranking as the second-worst in the league. However, their performances against mobile quarterbacks have not been entirely poor.

Aside from a difficult outing against MVP candidate Josh Allen, the defense has held up relatively well. Early success by Anthony Richardson in a game against the Colts faded as Indianapolis moved away from utilizing his legs.

Daniels will inevitably gain yards on the ground, but the Lions’ focus should be on limiting the damage. If he is allowed to continually pick up easy yards, Detroit’s defense will face a tough night.

Sacks or the ability to close escape lanes will force Daniels to rely solely on his arm, giving the Lions an advantage.

Detroit’s offense can also play a role in neutralizing Daniels. If the Lions establish a lead, Washington will have to abandon its running game and prioritize quick scoring to keep pace.

This change would limit Daniels’ opportunities to use his legs, forcing the Commanders into a one-dimensional offense. Under such circumstances, Detroit can unleash its blitzes and apply pressure on Daniels in the pocket.

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MLB (Baseball)

NL Rookie of the Year Paul Skenes isn’t focused on his long-term future with the Pittsburgh Pirates yet

Paul Skenes
Paul Skenes (MLB)

Paul Skenes, the National League Rookie of the Year, is focused on his present with the Pittsburgh Pirates, not on his long-term future. The 22-year-old pitcher, who made a major impact after being the top pick in the 2023 draft, has not given much thought to the possibility of signing an extension with the team.

“I haven’t given it too much thought,” Skenes said during a recent interview. “But I love playing in Pittsburgh, and I’m excited to get down to spring training.”

Despite the Pirates’ quiet offseason and the growing concerns among fans about the team’s future, Skenes remains grounded in the present. Pittsburgh has yet to make significant moves in free agency, which has left fans worried about losing the young star.

Skenes made an instant impact in his debut season, impressing with his 100 mph fastball and confidence. He was a key player in the Pirates’ late-season push to secure a wild card spot, ending the franchise’s long postseason drought.

However, general manager Ben Cherington has not been aggressive in acquiring new talent to improve the offense. While Pittsburgh has locked up players like Bryan Reynolds and Mitch Keller, the future of Skenes is uncertain.

He will be eligible for arbitration after the 2026 season, which raises questions about whether the team will be able to retain him, given the club’s history of parting ways with high-end pitchers like Gerrit Cole and Joe Musgrove before they became too costly.

For now, Skenes is focused on his current role with the Pirates. He is preparing to join the team for spring training in Bradenton, Florida, without any concerns about innings limits, which were imposed last season to protect his arm. He was fully on board with the idea but is now ready to pitch more innings in 2024.

“I’m going to be ready to throw 240 innings,” Skenes said. “It’s not going to be 160 innings again. I know that. It’s gonna be much more, ‘Take the ball and pitch.’”

Paul Skenes pitches in the 2nd inning

Off the field, Skenes is also taking on a leadership role in the clubhouse. He has been speaking with veterans from other teams during the offseason to gather insights on what it takes to create a winning culture.

Though he isn’t sure exactly what that will look like yet, he plans to have more influence in shaping the team’s environment. However, he is careful not to overstep his boundaries as a young player.

“I don’t know what the character of that will be, but I’ll have probably a little more say-so,” he said. “I’m not going to overstep, but winning is winning. We’ve got to do what we’ve got to do to make it happen.”

Skenes is fully committed to the Pirates’ success and has been working hard this offseason in Charlotte, North Carolina. While he has quickly gained attention for his success on the field, he is learning how to manage his newfound fame. He mentioned that the offseason gives him a break from the constant spotlight, but he is already accustomed to the attention that comes with being a rising star.

“I’m going to have to get used to it,” Skenes said about the fame. “It never completely goes away. That’s just how it is. It’s the new normal.”

Skenes’ fame even led to a viral moment when a fan on a flight from Chicago to Pittsburgh asked for his autograph on a copy of Fyodor Dostoevsky’s “Crime and Punishment.” Despite the unusual request, Skenes happily obliged, and the incident quickly spread online.

While Skenes is aware of the challenges the Pirates face compared to top teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers, he refuses to let that be an excuse for failure. He remains committed to the idea that fundamental baseball and strong execution can lead to success, regardless of the team’s financial resources.

“There’s no reason we can’t play fundamental baseball and execute at a very high level without having players like (Shohei Ohtani),” he said. “It’s not a complicated game.”

For now, Skenes is focused on improving himself and his team, determined to lead the Pirates back to the playoffs for the first time since 2015.

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NFL (American Football)

Experts Applaud Jayden Daniels’ Performance Ahead of Lions Clash

Jayden Daniels leads Commanders to their first NFC Championship since 1991 (Washington Commanders

Jayden Daniels has positioned himself as the clear favorite for this season’s NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award, and many agree it should be a foregone conclusion.

This LSU graduate has revitalized a struggling franchise that underwent a major overhaul after a change in ownership and the dismissal of its head coach and general manager.

Commanders celebrate Daniels’ record-breaking rookie season (Washington Commanders)

During his debut season, Daniels orchestrated an incredible turnaround, guiding the team to eight additional wins.

He then led the Commanders through a remarkable playoff run, defeating the No. 3 seed Tampa Bay Buccaneers 23-20 and the No. 1 seed Detroit Lions 45-31.

These victories have secured Washington’s first NFC Championship game appearance since 1991.

Daniels’ Record-Breaking Performance

What makes this feat even more remarkable is that Daniels has delivered four touchdowns in the playoffs without a single turnover. Across 19 offensive possessions, the Commanders have punted only once, underscoring their dominance under his leadership.

The franchise also celebrated Daniels’ historic milestone following their divisional-round victory.

With 5,113 combined yards this season (4,135 passing and 978 rushing), he has surpassed all previous records for rookies in NFL history.

Acknowledging this achievement, the team shared a social media post reading, “That Kid,” accompanied by a graphic commemorating his record-setting performance.

Praise from C.J. Stroud

Daniels’ extraordinary season hasn’t gone unnoticed by others in the league. Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud, who himself set rookie records just last year, expressed admiration for his close friend on Monday.

“I couldn’t be prouder of him,” Stroud told reporters. “In my eyes, he’s had the best rookie year ever.

Records are made to be broken, and he’s shattered so many. I don’t usually root for other teams, but I’m cheering for my guy and the Commanders.”