Author: Eternity Lab

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College football is officially back, and the Kalshi Promo Code FOXSPORTS can help you get in on the action. New users can unlock a $25 bonus when trading on their favorite college football wagers as Week 1 kicks off Thursday.

A loaded Saturday slate features the defending national champion Indiana Hoosiers opening against North Texas, while No. 2 Oregon gets an early test against Boise State. Lane Kiffin gets his tenure at LSU started in Death Valley as the Tigers take on Dabo Swinney and Clemson.

Arch Manning and No. 5 Texas take on Texas State, Kirby Smart and No. 3 Georgia kick off against Tennessee State. 

Sunday continues the action with No. 24 Louisville vs. No. 9 Ole Miss and No. 4 Notre Dame facing Wisconsin at Lambeau Field. Then on Monday, No. 19 SMU go on the road to face Florida State.

You can still trade on future markets, giving you a chance to trade on which teams will make the College Football Playoff or win the national championship.

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For more information and full terms and conditions, visit our Kalshi promo code page.

How to Claim the Kalshi Welcome Bonus

1. Click this ‘Claim Now’ link to visit Kalshi and start the signup process.
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CFB Week 1 Slate

*Probabilities are subject to change*

Thursday: Colorado @ Georgia Tech

Teams	Chance	Yes	No
Georgia Tech	69%	70¢	31¢
Colorado Buffaloes	31%	31¢	70¢

Friday: No. 7 Miami vs. Stanford

Teams	Chance	Yes	No
Miami Hurricanes	93%	94¢	7¢
Stanford Cardinals	7%	7¢	94¢

Saturday: No. 2 Oregon vs. Boise State

Teams	Chance	Yes	No
Oregon Ducks	94%	95¢	6¢
Boise State Broncos	6%	6¢	95¢

Saturday: No. 11 LSU vs. Clemson

Teams	Chance	Yes	No
LSU Tigers	78%	78¢	23¢
Clemson Tigers	23%	23¢	78¢

Saturday: No. 9 Ole Miss vs. No. 24 Louisville

Teams	Chance	Yes	No
Ole Miss Rebels	72%	72¢	29¢
Louisville Cardinals	28%	29¢	72¢

Monday: No. 19 SMU vs. Florida State

Teams	Chance	Yes	No
SMU Mustangs	61%	62¢	39¢
Florida State Seminoles	40%	40¢	61¢

More markets available on Kalshi.

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It’s not how you start the season, it’s how you finish. 

We hear that phrase all the time from baseball players, and it’s most important now to these various stars who have a lot riding on the final month of the regular season. 

There are multiple players chasing something historic. There’s a long-expected comeback from injury with zero room for a setback. There’s real concern about a four-time MVP going for his fifth award. There’s a sleeping giant who, if he awakens, could completely alter the postseason picture. There’s a veteran pitcher who’s suddenly lost his command and needs it back in order to take his team to glory.

Here are seven players under the biggest microscope to perform down the stretch:

Rival executives who tried and failed to acquire Rutschman at the trade deadline should be feeling pretty good right now. The three-time All-Star catcher is currently sidelined with a new, different injury than the one he was already rehabbing from when the Red Sox traded for him. Rutchman has been out of the lineup for three straight games with a hyperextended elbow, and though there’s no ligament damage, the Red Sox will have to monitor him throughout the rest of the year. 

The catcher has already missed two games in Miami, played three out of four against the Yankees, and now completely missed all three games against the Mariners. He’s played in just 15 games since the Red Sox sent a significant portion of their pitching-prospect pipeline to Baltimore on Aug. 3. And when he’s managed to step into the box for Boston, he hasn’t been much help. Rutschman has struggled to find his pop, batting just .170 with one home run, one double and four RBI in 59 plate appearances. All eyes will be on the catcher as he attempts to make a meaningful impact down the stretch.

Wheeler seemed to get back on track in his most recent outing against the Angels, but it’s overall been a poor second half for the 36-year-old right-hander. He owns a 6.27 ERA and 1.58 WHIP in eight starts and 37 ⅓ innings pitched since the All-Star break — far and away the worst second-half ERA of his 12-year career. His 26 earned runs allowed in those eight starts have surpassed his 22 earned runs allowed in 15 starts in the first half. All of this comes after he posted a terrific 2.13 ERA in 93 innings pitched in the first half. 

It’s difficult to pinpoint what’s wrong with Wheeler, who is typically excellent with his command, but has been uncharacteristically walking too many batters of late. He adjusted his arm slot in his last outing, which seemed to help, but he still walked three batters and even drilled Mike Trout. The Phillies need Wheeler to pitch like the ace he’s been since they signed him in 2020, and he has about a handful of starts remaining this month to get back into a groove before October. Philly’s World Series hopes hinge on the strength of their starting rotation, and that begins and ends with Wheeler being dominant.

How soon can Judge return to the Yankees’ erratic lineup? Will he look like himself when he’s back? Will he be able to play in right field after missing three-plus months with a fractured rib? These are just some of the questions Yankees fans have been not-so-patiently asking as they await the much-anticipated return of the reigning AL MVP. Unlike the last time Judge missed a significant chunk of the season due to injury in 2023 when he crashed into the Dodger Stadium wall and sprained his big toe, the 2026 Yankees were able to stay near the top of the AL East rankings without their best player. But just because they were able to stay afloat does not mean they can go the distance without a healthy Judge. 

Judge’s availability and ability to make a big impact as soon as he returns is detrimental to New York attempting to surpass Tampa Bay and win the division. And even beyond September, it’s difficult to imagine the Yankees’ inconsistent offense making a deep playoff run without their superstar slugger. Since June 1, the Bronx Bombers are ranked 25th in the majors in slugging (.390) and runs scored (325), 26th in OPS (.684), 28th in batting average (.226), and 30th in hitting with runners in scoring position (.209). The offensive numbers are ugly, but the Yankees have been able to stay atop the division due to their excellent pitching and the mediocrity in the rest of the AL. That will all change come October, when they’ll need Judge to give them their best shot at breaking their 17-year championship drought.

Stunningly, the Blue Jays and their losing record are still very much in the thick of a crowded AL wild card race, and any day Guerrero decides to wake up should catapult them to a postseason spot. Guerrero, last year’s ALCS MVP, has hit just seven home runs this season and none — zero!!! — at home. The complete and total absence of his traditional power is appalling. And yet… he still has time to erase and forget everything that’s happened this season. A strong month of September from Guerrero will help the Blue Jays get scary fast, especially with the lack of clear-cut contenders in the AL. 

But the waiting has been tiring. His season-long slump throughout Toronto’s high expectations of returning to the World Series has been the biggest detriment to the club’s offensive plans. When the Blue Jays let Bo Bichette walk away in free agency and failed to sign Kyle Tucker, it already seemed like they didn’t have enough pop on offense — and that calculation included Guerrero performing up to his usual standards. Without Guerrero’s slug, it’s almost inconceivable that Toronto has managed to remain within striking distance of a wild-card spot. All they need now is a little push from their six-time All-Star first baseman, and last year’s October magic could be tapping on their door.

As long as Ohtani’s knee injury continues to impede him from pitching, there will be concern about how impactful he can actually be for the Dodgers down the stretch. The two-way phenom provides the most value to Los Angeles when he’s putting up otherworldly numbers at the plate, and though he’s been productive as usual this season, he hasn’t been dominant in his superhuman way these past couple of months. After his high-water mark with a 1.091 OPS in June, his numbers dipped to a .887 OPS in July and an even worse .795 OPS in August.

So, for now, forget pitching. It sounds like the Dodgers will continue to be cautious with him on the mound, anyway, and he’s no longer built up, since his last start was two months ago. The Dodgers need Ohtani to turn it on offensively this month, and get on a heater before the postseason. They’ve been below average at the plate in the second half, sporting a 95 wRC+ since the All-Star break while ranking 22nd in MLB in runs scored (172). Beyond team needs, Ohtani is still chasing his fifth career MVP and fourth straight. A dominant final month of the regular season could certainly help get him there.

PCA is locked in a historic, high-stakes race for the NL MVP award as he carries a surging Cubs team toward October. His monster breakout campaign — which includes leading the majors in WAR (8.3), runs scored (100) and games played (139) — has pushed him to first in the NL in slugging (.569) and OPS (.943). As elite and important as he’s been for the North Siders, he cannot afford to slow down. This final month of the regular season will decide whether he becomes the first Chicago Cubs player to win the MVP since Kris Bryant in 2016. 

Many expected the 24-year-old centerfielder to come back down to earth after his blistering month of June (1.249 OPS in 26 games). But PCA has been able to hold on and extend his surge at the plate, in large part due to his improved plate discipline. He increased his walk rate from 4.5 percent last year to 11.4 percent this year, building a convincing case that his career year is real and possibly here to stay. He held an OPS above 1.000 in both July and August, and if he can keep it up in September, we can consider the MVP award his to lose.

Every at-bat Alvarez takes this month will be heavily monitored as the slugger looks to become the first hitter to win the Triple Crown since Miguel Cabrera did it in 2012. He’s tied with Junior Caminero in home runs with 37. Alvarez’s .316 batting average leads the AL, with Tampa Bay’s Chandler Simpson right behind him, hitting .310. And Alvarez leads the AL with 94 RBI, though Pete Alonso is hovering right behind him with 92 RBI of his own. 

Alvarez cooled off considerably in August, crushing just two home runs in 27 games last month. No one is blaming him, as he’s been able to stay healthy all year after playing just 48 games last season due to injury, and fatigue tends to settle in during the dog days of the baseball calendar. There’s a reason nobody has achieved the Triple Crown in 14 years. Perhaps the Astros’ pennant race will provide Alvarez with the final push he needs to do it. Houston entered Wednesday with a one-game lead over the Rangers for the AL West division title, and they’re finally over .500.

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The Steelers reign as the AFC North title winners, but two teams are emerging as stronger candidates to win one of the most competitive divisions in football this season, at least according to “First Things First.” 

From the questions surrounding the Pittsburgh Steelers’ Aaron Rodgers and the Cleveland Browns’ Deshaun Watson, and the healthy talent returning on both the Baltimore Ravens’ and Cincinnati Bengals’ rosters, the AFC North seems to be unpredictable this season. However, Nick Wright, Chris Broussard and Danny Parkins were in unison on who the top two teams in the division will be.

Here are their picks for the AFC North.

Nick Wright’s AFC North Prediction

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Nick Wright put the Cleveland Browns at the bottom and the Ravens at the top, leaving last year’s AFC North winners at third. 

Wright did not hold back when it came to the Browns, emphasizing that its quarterback situation does not benefit them or its record. 

“I think they’re going to be 4-13. I think it’s the worst quarterback situation in the NFL. … I’d be very surprised if they win six games,” Wright said on Wednesday’s edition of First Things First. 

In terms of the Steelers, the return of Rodgers could go South for new head coach Mike McCarthy, especially with Rodgers turning 43 years old this year.

“I think they finish 6-11, but what is Aaron Rodgers going to look like once the weather turns cold? … He turns 43 this year,” Wright said. “I would be surprised if, during that stretch that Drew Allar doesn’t start a game or two … I do not think Aaron Rodgers will be the starting quarterback all year.”

Wright believes that Cincinnati will fall into the same cycle as last year: win nine games and miss the playoffs. Even with quarterback Joe Burrow back in full force with wide receivers Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase, Wright is not buying any of the hype surrounding its offense.

“Winning only nine games and missing the playoffs. It’s basically what they do every year… I think they will have the ninth-best offense in the NFL.”

For Wright’s No. 1 team, the Ravens, he sets the bar high for quarterback Lamar Jackson and new head coach Jesse Minter. Wright predicts that Baltimore will also land the No. 1 seed in the AFC. 

“I would be shocked if they don’t start 6-0. If they don’t just sweep this conference. I am predicting that the Baltimore Ravens will be the No. 1 seed in the AFC,” Wright continued. “I think Minter is a breath of fresh air this year. I think Lamar might win his third NFL MVP. They might be a regular season juggernaut.”

Chris Broussard’s AFC North Prediction

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Chris Broussard and Wright shared the same predictions from top to bottom. However, there’s a twist that came with the Bengals.

For Broussard, the Browns were the clear choice for fourth place, especially with their offseason decision on starting quarterback Deshaun Watson. 

“I’m stunned that Deshaun Watson has won the job. He hasn’t played well… He better go out and win those first two road games,” Broussard said. 

Broussard also turned heads when he made his prediction about the Steelers season, noting it could be their first losing season in over two decades. 

“This will be the first losing season for the Steelers since 2003. We’re going to find out that Mike Tomlin was really holding that thing together…I think Mike McCarthy is a good coach, but the last two years he was with Aaron Rodgers in Green Bay…they went 8-10-1…with a team that had the potential to win 13 games,” Broussard said.

Rodgers left every NFL fan waiting for his offseason decision to return to Pittsburgh, retire or sign with someone new. However, joining forces with McCarthy adds a new element to the Steelers’ success this season. 

Broussard’s prediction for the Bengals is that they do make the playoffs, but won’t win the division. 

“They get to the playoffs. I’m expecting a nice year from them, I’m expecting Burrow to be healthy,” Broussard said. “The defense is just going to be solid… I think the offense is going to be one of the best in the league.”

And none other than Broussard’s favorite NFL team, the Ravens, took place as the AFC North winners. 

“I am EXCITED about this season,” Broussard said. 

Danny Parkins’ AFC North Prediction

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Parkins followed suit with the Browns in last place, thanks to their lack of talent at quarterback. 

“Very obvious. They’re going to play three quarterbacks this season… They’re going to move to Shedeur Sanders early, and then they’re going to have no other move, and they’ll be in trouble,” Parkins said. “I think that they’re one quarterback away from making things interesting.”

The Steelers placed third, noting that their regular season ended with eight wins and Rodgers will be ‘fine’ this season. 

“I think they’re going to be fine. I think Aaron Rodgers is going to go out with a whimper, they’ll be an eight-win team,” Parkins said. 

However, Parkins split off from Broussard and Wright’s predictions and placed the Ravens second, but still making the playoffs. Parkins detailed that Minter could be a good hire on paper, but won’t know much until the season rolls around.

“I think it’s going to take 12 wins to win this division. … My thing with Baltimore is, I think Jesse Minter is a good hire, but we don’t know,” Parkins said. “We have a head coach who’s never been a head coach, you have an offensive coordinator who’s never been a playcaller.”

Parkins labeled the Bengals as his team to win the division. However, even with the talented offense Cincinnati has, the Bengals top the Ravens by a very small amount. 

“As for Cincinnati, when Joe Burrow, Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase play, they’re 12-6 over the last two seasons and averaging 29 points per game, and they added a ton to their defense. So, on the thinnest of margins, I have the Bengals over the Ravens,” Parkins said. 

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One of the biggest catchups in college football Week 1 is No. 11 LSU welcoming Clemson to LSU’s own Death Valley, and FanDuel is giving new users a chance to win $100 in Bonus Bets with this prime-time battle.

Clemson and LSU meet again after LSU defeated the Tigers 17-10 in last season’s opener, but both teams look very different this time around. Clemson turns to Christopher Vizzina at quarterback following Cade Klubnik’s departure.

LSU enters the Lane Kiffin era with more than 40 transfers, led by former Arizona State quarterback Sam Leavitt. Kiffin has high expectations in Year 1 as LSU looks to make an immediate push toward the national elite.

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Clemson Tigers Team Overview

Clemson’s 2025 season was defined by unmet expectations and an uncharacteristic slide, culminating in a frustrating bowl loss to Virginia Tech. For a program that defined ACC dominance for nearly a decade, missing out on both the conference title and the College Football Playoff signaled that the Tigers had hit a crossroad.

To regain their footing atop the ACC, Clemson must modernize its approach. That path starts under center with newly named starter Christopher Vizzina, a former four-star prospect who has patiently waited as a backup and now takes over following Cade Klubnik’s departure. 

LSU Tigers Team Overview

Lots of attention and news around LSU and head coach Lane Kiffin in his first-year. Bringing his high-tempo, explosive offense from Ole Miss to Baton Rouge.

To revamp an offense that lost Garrett Nussmeier to graduation, Kiffin went all-in on the transfer portal, bringing in over 40 transfer additions to overhaul the roster almost overnight.

Key LSU Portal Additions:

Sam Leavitt (QB): The former Arizona State dual-threat star who led the Sun Devils to a Big 12 title in 2024; he steps in as the projected starting quarterback.

Jordan Seaton (OT): The 5-star tackle transferred from Colorado after two seasons with the Buffalo. Seaton is projected as a top-10 pick in next year’s draft.

Skill Position Retooling: Added explosive speed on the outside with high-yardage wideout transfers and Pitt tight end Malachi Thomas to give Kiffin’s offense immediate mismatch weapons.

Here are the official team statistics for Clemson and Ole Miss from the 2025 college football season:

Clemson Tigers 2025 Team Stats

Record: 7–6 (4–4 ACC)

Offensive Stats

• Points Per Game: 27.2
• Total Offense: 392.2 yards per game
• Passing Yards: 267.8 yards per game
• Rushing Yards: 124.5 yards per game

Defensive Stats

• Points Allowed Per Game: 20.5
• Total Defense Allowed: 356.7 yards per game
• Passing Allowed: 251.2 yards per game
• Rushing Allowed: 105.5 yards per game
• Turnovers Forced: 17 total (8 fumbles, 9 interceptions)

Lane Kiffin 2025 Season With Ole Miss 

Record: 13–2 (7–1 SEC)

Offensive Stats

• Points Per Game: 38.9
• Total Offense: 489.7 yards per game
• Passing Yards: 313.3 yards per game
• Rushing Yards: 176.3 yards per game

Defensive Stats

• Points Allowed Per Game: 21.1
• Total Defense Allowed: 348 yards per game
• Passing Allowed: 198.9 yards per game
• Rushing Allowed: 149.1 yards per game
• Turnovers Forced: 23 total (12 fumbles, 11 interceptions)

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The Los Angeles Clippers and owner Steve Ballmer just learned that circumventing the salary cap carries a steep price tag. After concluding its investigation into Kawhi Leonard’s side deals, the NBA delivered a decisive ruling that proves no franchise is above the league’s rulebook.

According to ESPN, the NBA is stripping the Clippers of five first-round picks and slapping owner Ballmer with a $30 million fine. Ballmer will also serve a one-year suspension, leaving the Clippers without control over a first-round pick until 2034.

Leonard escaped the harshest discipline, but he was still ordered to pay $700,000 in restitution over improper benefits received by his uncle, Dennis Robertson. The NBA has also banned Robertson from conducting any future business within the league.

This isn’t just a slap on the wrist as it’s one of the steepest penalties ever handed down in pro sports. For a young Clippers team on the brink of rebuilding, losing half a decade’s worth of first-round draft capital is an absolute death blow.

With the hammer officially dropped on the Clippers, let’s dive into the history books. These are the most memorable and impactful sports punishments handed out in history.

Saints Bounty Gate (2009)

Winning Super Bowl XLIV gave Saints head coach Sean Payton the breakout moment he needed to earn respect around the league. But that reputation took a hit when an investigation revealed a scandal brewing behind their magical season.

The victory was soon tarnished when an investigation exposed a bounty program led by defensive coordinator Gregg Williams to intentionally injure opponents. Payton covered it up, resulting in a $500,000 fine and the Saints being stripped of two second-round picks.

However, the league’s hammer didn’t stop swinging at the top.

The league hit Payton with a full, unpaid one-year suspension for 2012 and suspended Williams indefinitely. General manager Mickey Loomis was also held accountable, serving an eight-game suspension without pay.

Timberwolves Secret Contract (2002)

With the Clippers’ latest punishment now out there, it’s worth going back to the Minnesota Timberwolves scandal involving Joe Smith. 

Starting in 1999, Smith signed three consecutive low-salary, one-year contracts with the Timberwolves. This raised concerns, which eventually led to the discovery of an under-the-table agreement to circumvent salary cap rules.

Once the investigation concluded, the Timberwolves were fined $3.5 million, owner Glen Taylor and general manager Kevin McHale were suspended. The Timberwolves, similarly to the Clippers, were stripped of five first-round draft picks.

Astros Sign Stealing (2020)

After winning the 2017 World Series, the Houston Astros seemed like the talk of the league and baseball’s next dynasty. However, after an MLB investigation revealed they illegally stole signs from opposing teams, public scrutiny and backlash only intensified.

The Astros were fined the maximum of $5 million and stripped of their first- and second-round picks in the 2020 and 2021 MLB Drafts. On top of that, general manager Jeff Luhnow and manager A.J. Hinch were also suspended for one year, prior to their firings.

Despite widespread backlash across the sport, the Astros went on to win the World Series again in 2022. They may have cheated in the past, but winning it all without stealing signs proved just how talented and well-built the Astros roster truly was.

Patriots Spy Gate (2007)

To no one’s surprise, the New England Patriots were a lock for this list. Head coach Bill Belichick was no stranger to league discipline, but his involvement in Spygate remains the most notorious stain on the Patriots historic dynasty.

Early in the season, a Patriots video assistant was caught illegally filming the New York Jets’ defensive signals from an unauthorized location on the sideline. Because this violated NFL rules, Belichick and the organization faced league discipline.

Belichick was fined $500,000 and the Patriots organization was fined $250,000. Not only were the fines massive, but the team was also stripped of their 2008 first-round pick.

Red Sox Sign Stealing (2020)

Following the Astros, the Boston Red Sox were also caught stealing signs during their 2018 World Series winning season. The punishment was far lighter compared to the Astros, but still impactful. 

Replay operator J.T. Watkins received a one-year suspension, and the team forfeited its 2020 second-round draft pick. Following the investigation, manager Alex Cora was also suspended for one year, but his penalty was from his role in the Astros scandal.

Since the scandal, the Red Sox have made the playoffs only three times, struggling to regain their former league dominance that fans have come to get accustomed to watching.

SMU “Death Penalty” (1987)

One of the most impactful punishments involved the SMU Mustangs. Investigators discovered that administrators and boosters were paying football players under the table and this came even while they were already on probation for previous recruiting violations.

The “death penalty” label comes from the sheer severity of the punishment. The NCAA canceled the Mustangs 1987 season, and the heavy restrictions on scholarships and recruiting forced the school to cancel the 1988 season as well.

The severity of the punishment effectively silenced the program for two consecutive seasons. With 55 scholarships stripped over four years, the roster was systematically gutted, triggering a collapse that took them more than two decades to recover from.

Braves International Signing Infractions (2017)

As well-respected as the Atlanta Braves are in baseball today, they aren’t without their fair share of controversy. From 2015 to 2017, MLB investigators caught the Braves circumventing international signing rules and bonus caps.

For a Braves franchise built on international scouting, the penalty could not have been more damaging. The Braves lost 13 top international prospects, including prized shortstop Kevin Maitan, setting back their international pipeline for years.

From top to bottom, the fallout for the Braves organization extended far beyond the field. 

General manager John Coppolella received a lifetime ban from MLB and the Braves were forced to forfeit a 2018 third-round draft pick. It only got worse as the strict bonus limits effectively shut the team out of the international market through the 2021 season.

USC NCAA Sanctions (2010)

Pete Carroll departed USC for the Seattle Seahawks in 2010, executing a perfectly timed exit. This came just months before the NCAA hit the Trojans football program with severe ‘lack of institutional control’ sanctions.

The investigation centered on star running back Reggie Bush receiving improper benefits from sports marketers. Following the probe, the football program was hit with a two-year bowl ban and the loss of 30 football scholarships over three years.

The Trojans were also placed on four years of probation and forced to vacate 14 wins from the 2004 and 2005 seasons, including their national title win. Bush faced severe fallout as well, forfeiting his 2005 Heisman Trophy.

Jerry Sandusky Sanctions

College football has undergone major reforms regarding athlete protection and mandatory reporting policies. This was largely driven by the fallout from former Penn State assistant coach Jerry Sandusky.

Penn State was hit with historic sanctions after university and athletic department leaders conspired to cover up Sandusky’s crimes rather than report him to law enforcement. This resulted in one of the most severe punishments in college football history.

The punishment included a $60 million fine, a four-year postseason bowl ban and the loss of 40 scholarships. The Nittany Lions football program was also forced to vacate 112 victories from 1998 through 2011.

Sandusky is currently serving time in prison for his crimes at Penn State. He is serving a 30-to-60-year sentence in a Pennsylvania state prison following his 2012 conviction on 45 counts of child sexual abuse.

Dolphins Tampering Violations (2022)

Dolphins owner Stephen Ross was at the center of a six-month, league-wide NFL investigation for tampering. The start of the investigation was actually sparked by a lawsuit from former Dolphins head coach Brian Flores.

The lawsuit revealed that the Dolphins had illegal contact with quarterback Tom Brady and Sean Payton while both were under contract with other teams. Given how high-profile the story was, it came as no surprise when the league handed down harsh penalties.

The Dolphins were stripped of a 2023 first-round pick and a 2024 third-round pick, while Ross was suspended and fined $1.5 million. While it remains unclear whether Brady or Payton was planning a team-up, the punishment is one of the most severe in history.

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The countdown to the start of the NFL season has moved from weeks to days, which means we’re seeing some teams make some final tweaks to their rosters before the regular season begins.

That includes naming winners of quarterback competitions. The Las Vegas Raiders officially named Kirk Cousins the starter on Wednesday, giving him the job over Fernando Menoza. The Dallas Cowboys brought back Joe Milton to the practice squad. Sticking with quarterbacks, Minnesota Vikings General Manager Nolan Teasley spoke about J.J. McCarthy’s role with the team.

Despite dealing with so many injuries, the San Francisco 49ers received positive updates regarding All-Pro edge rusher Nick Bosa and tight end George Kittle’s recovery. There’s a chance for both to suit up in Week 1. 

Here’s the latest NFL news from around the league on Wednesday.

As the Las Vegas Raiders enter their first season under head coach Klint Kubiak, he and the team stated throughout the offseason that they’d like Kirk Cousins to be the team’s starting quarterback for much of the year. Wednesday afternoon, Kubiak made it official, naming Kirk Cousins as the Raiders’ Week 1 starter over No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza.

Cousins has bounced around the league, but his history with Kubiak in Minnesota likely played a big role in the coach’s comfort level with him. Over his decade-plus as a starter, Cousins has taken snaps for the Washington Commanders, Minnesota Vikings and Atlanta Falcons.

Kubiak spoke to reporters about his plan for developing Mendoza now that the young signal-caller is officially starting the season as the backup on Wednesday.

“There’s always early work, late work, more meetings, plenty of time on the field between drills with Coach Sullivan and Coach Janocko,” Kubiak said. “Every player that is not starting the first game, they’re helping us on the look team. We’re just trying to find every edge we can find to continue to get him better and his teammates better.”

Mendoza becomes the first quarterback taken with the No. 1 overall pick not to be named the starter in Week 1 of his rookie season since Baker Mayfield in 2018. The Raiders will host the Miami Dolphins next Sunday afternoon.

Quarterback Joe Milton rejoined the Dallas Cowboys on Wednesday, signing to the team’s practice squad after clearing waivers. Milton was released earlier this week to accommodate a roster spot for running back Emari Demercado, a move that officially solidified Sam Howell as the primary backup to starting quarterback Dak Prescott.

Head coach Brian Schottenheimer addressed the quarterback decision on Wednesday, pointing to Howell’s execution during camp and preseason action as the deciding factor.

“We looked at the whole body of work,” Schottenheimer said. “We just felt like Sam had done a little bit more just in terms of executing the offense in certain areas.”

Milton served as Prescott’s backup in 2025 after being acquired in a trade with the New England Patriots. Despite a productive preseason where he threw for 378 yards, three touchdowns, and no interceptions, Milton was ultimately edged out by Howell, who holds 18 career regular-season starts and signed a one-year deal with Dallas in free agency.

San Francisco 49ers defensive end Nick Bosa participated in a full practice on Wednesday for the first time since tearing his right ACL in Week 3 of last season. Bosa took part in individual drills and team periods after overcoming a training camp setback involving knee tendinitis. 

Both Bosa and tight end George Kittle are traveling on the team’s flight to Melbourne, Australia, for the Sept. 10 season opener against the Los Angeles Rams. Kittle, who is recovering from a torn right Achilles sustained in January’s playoff win, completed multiple positive practice sessions this week prior to departure.

“I’ve just been trying to get it as strong and myself as confident as I can to where I could rip the Band-Aid off and go to team stuff today,” Bosa told reporters following Wednesday’s session. “You hope that your body is going to respond the way that you prepared it to, and there were a couple moments today where that happened.”

When asked if he was going to play against the Rams in Australia, Bosa did not confirm whether or not he would play, but he did respond “after today, yeah, that was pretty good.”

In addition to Bosa and Kittle, San Francisco welcomed wide receiver Mike Evans (adductor), fullback Kyle Juszczyk (finger), and cornerback Ephesians Prysock (shoulder) back to practice Wednesday. Bosa noted his recovery routine for the 16-hour flight includes compression machines and ice as the 49ers prepare for four scheduled practices in Australia ahead of kickoff.

After weeks of speculation, the Minnesota Vikings are expected to keep third-year quarterback J.J. McCarthy on the active roster. 

General manager Nolan Teasley spoke to reporters Wednesday afternoon, detailing the team’s long-term vision for McCarthy after he lost the starting job to Kyler Murray. Teasley offered nothing but praise for the former first-round pick.

“McCarthy’s role is to continue to develop, improve and support his teammates,” Teasley said. “He’s done an excellent job of that from the moment I’ve been here and from my understanding since he walked through the front door.”

Asked whether he expects McCarthy to remain on the roster this season, Teasley gave a definitive answer. He declined to comment on depth chart specifics, leaving open the question whether McCarthy will serve as the backup or if that will go to Carson Wentz.

“I do,” Teaseley said. “I wouldn’t necessarily comment on depth immediately, but I’m pleased he’s part of our present version of the Minnesota Vikings and we’re excited about his future.”

The Vikings are set to host the Green Bay Packers next Sunday afternoon, with Murray scheduled to make his first start at U.S. Bank Stadium.

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What better way to celebrate the return of college football and the NFL than with a fresh mock draft?

Much will change between now and April 29, 2027, so take this forecast as it is intended — a projection of the current top prospects at the college level coupled with the anticipated needs of NFL teams. As always, it will be fun to monitor how both change over the course of the season. 

Of course, among the many things that will certainly change in the coming months is the selection order. For the purposes of this mock, we’re taking the inverse order of DraftKings’ latest Super Bowl odds. 

1. Arizona Cardinals: Arch Manning, QB, Texas

With a subpar roster (including at quarterback) and forced to compete against three legitimate Super Bowl contenders within their division, the Cardinals have the easiest route to the No. 1 selection. Manning isn’t without his flaws, but there are plenty of signs that he could be the sort of franchise-changer the Cardinals need to become relevant again. 

Arch Manning is expected to level up in his second year as a starter and fourth overall in college football. (Photo by Parker S. Freedman/Getty Images)

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2. Miami Dolphins: Dante Moore, QB, Oregon

I’m more bullish on Malik Willis as a starting quarterback in the NFL than the folks at DraftKings seem to be, but like the aforementioned Cardinals, it seems unlikely that Miami is going to jump in the standings given its own limitations as well as its schedule. I would love to match Willis with Ohio State’s phenomenal receiver Jeremiah Smith here, but the opportunity to land a blue-chip quarterback doesn’t come often, and Moore is certainly that. He is currently a more instinctive and accurate passer than Manning and looks like a lock at this point to be among the first two players selected next spring — even if it requires another team trading up to get him. 

3. New York Jets: Jeremiah Smith, WR, Ohio State

I like the veteran additions made by the Jets (on both sides of the ball) and expect the club’s native first-round pick to be much lower than No. 3 overall. That said, with two other first-round picks added via trades, the Jets have the firepower to do whatever they want. With all due respect to the quarterbacks, Smith is arguably the best player in this class, with a frame, speed and star power similar to a young Julio Jones. 

Jeremiah Smith and Dante Moore in Klatt’s top 10 prospects for 2027 NFL Draft Joel Klatt Show

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4. Cleveland Browns: Dylan Stewart, Edge, South Carolina

The 2027 first-round selection the Browns received from the Rams in the Myles Garrett trade won’t come until much later on Day 1, but with the top quarterbacks off the board and several blue-chip defensive prospects available, Cleveland should be satisfied with reloading on that side of the ball with this pick. Stewart’s blend of burst, bend and length is the building blocks of a future All-Pro. Adding him to a defensive line already featuring Jared Verse and Mason Graham would be exciting. 

5. Las Vegas Raiders: Leonard Moore, CB, Notre Dame

Based on the investment made this past spring in No. 1 overall selection Fernando Mendoza and veteran Kirk Cousins, new head coach Klint Kubiak may very well push for a wide receiver (Cam Coleman?) with the Raiders’ top choice. But it would be hard to pass up a talent like Moore here. He’s right with Derek Stingley and Patrick Surtain II as one of the cleanest cornerback prospects I’ve evaluated over the past decade. Moore combines size, agility, instincts and ball skills to project as a future NFL star.  

6. Atlanta Falcons: Colin Simmons, Edge, Texas

Perhaps the Falcons will be feeling better about their edge group a year from now, but with James Pearce Jr. out for half the season (suspension) and Jalon Walker out for the entire season (torn ACL), the club has little choice but to have contingency plans. A former linebacker turned edge rusher following a similar path as Arvell Reese and Micah Parsons, Simmons is a one-man wrecking crew who could fix what currently ails Atlanta’s pass rush. 

Colin Simmons could prove to be the best pass-rusher in America. (Photo by David Buono/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

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7. Tennessee Titans: Trevor Goosby, OT, Texas

The Titans invested a lot of money ($82 million over four years) in left tackle Dan Moore Jr., and the results last year were typical of what he’d shown earlier in his career with the Pittsburgh Steelers — he surrendered eight sacks over 16 regular-season games. If picking this high, the Titans could see Goosby as an upgrade as Cam Ward’s blindside protector. Goosby put a scare into the Longhorns (and scouts) by going down with a knee injury in August, but he reportedly suffered a bone bruise that should take just weeks, not months, to heal. Goosby was fantastic last season, but it was his first as a starter. If he can build upon it, he has the talent to be the first offensive lineman drafted this spring. 

8. Carolina Panthers: Cam Coleman, WR, Texas

Four Longhorns among the first eight selections of the 2027 NFL draft? It could happen, which is a big reason why Texas is my pick to win the national title this year. An acrobatic one-handed grab shared on social media from camp this summer had fans gushing, but scouts have been tracking Coleman since he flashed at Auburn. A springy athlete with excellent size and tracking skills, Coleman reminds me a lot of another star wideout playing in Texas: Cowboys star George Pickens. Pairing Coleman with reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year Tetairoa McMillan would give the Panthers the opportunity to better evaluate Bryce Young in what will be the last year of his rookie contract. 

9. New Orleans Saints: Ellis Robinson IV, CB, Georgia

I like the Saints’ young nucleus in the secondary, but GM Mickey Loomis has been doing this too long to think he wouldn’t consider adding another premier cover corner, if available. Robinson isn’t as big or as physical as the aforementioned Leonard Moore, but he possesses elite agility, acceleration and ball skills.

10. New York Giants: A’Mauri Washington, DT, Oregon

Trading away Dexter Lawrence left a massive hole in the middle of John Harbaugh’s defense, and I think he’ll prioritize replacing him in the draft. Washington may not have the statistics (33 tackles, including 4.5 for loss and 1.5 sacks in 2026) one normally associates with a first-round selection, but had he entered the 2026 draft, I believe he would’ve joined Caleb Banks (Minnesota) and Peter Woods (Kansas City) as a Day 1 pick. Football is a big man’s game, and Washington has rare quickness for his 6-foot-3, 330-pound frame.

Who will win the 2026 national championship? Joel Klatt Show

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11. Washington Commanders: Trey’Dez Green, TE, LSU

We are all eager to see Jayden Daniels back on the field, but unless the Commanders surround him with more dynamic pass-catchers, Daniels might remain largely a one-man show on offense. Call Green a wide receiver or a tight end, the 6-foot-7, 240-pound target is a matchup nightmare. 

12. New York Jets (from Colts): Will Echoles, DT, Mississippi

It would be fascinating if the Jets use the selection gained in the Sauce Gardner trade on a cornerback, but replacing defensive lineman Quinnen Williams on the inside should be an even higher priority. Echoles isn’t as stout at the point of attack as Williams, but he’s cat-quick and passionate, playing with the high-revving motor Aaron Glenn would appreciate. 

13. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Trevor Lauck, OL, Iowa

The Bucs showed clear vision back in 2020 with the selection of Tristan Wirfs out of Iowa and could return to the deepest well for offensive linemen in college football with Lauck, whose lack of ideal length and foot speed could push him inside to guard in the NFL. Big, powerful and technically sound, Lauck is arguably the “safest” of this year’s offensive line prospects. A big contract will certainly be the most important factor in bringing Baker Mayfield back, but boosting the offensive line wouldn’t hurt. 

Baker Mayfield optimistic on Bucs’, who will win a ring first: Allen, Lamar, or Burrow? 🤔 | FTF

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14. Minnesota Vikings: Kelley Jones, CB, Mississippi State

The Vikings surprised some during the 2026 draft with the gamble on uber-talented but inconsistent defensive tackle Caleb Banks. I could see defensive coordinator Brian Flores pushing for a similarly unique prospect in Jones at cornerback. The 6-foot-4, 196-pound Jones allowed a total of 11 receptions last season, corralling receivers with his long arms and shockingly light feet. New general manager Nolan Teasley saw a lot of success in Seattle with oversized cornerbacks and might also be willing to bet big on Jones’ potential. 

15. Pittsburgh Steelers: Sammy Brown, LB, Clemson

Patrick Queen is entering the final season of a three-year, $41 million contract. Brown — an All-ACC honoree after each of his first two seasons at Clemson — plays with similar speed at a much lower salary. 

16. Jacksonville Jaguars: Chris Cole, LB, Georgia

The Jaguars saw Devin Lloyd leave for Carolina (and $45 million) in free agency and could be targeting a cheaper (and more versatile) replacement in the 2027 draft. The 6-foot-3, 235-pound Cole has been moved all over Georgia’s defense the past two seasons, so he doesn’t have the stats to suggest he’ll be a first-round pick. But his raw athleticism has scouts projecting him as one of this year’s breakout stars. 

17. Chicago Bears: Jordan Seaton, OT, LSU

Few teams bet on traits like the Bears, and Seaton is as gifted as there is. The biggest question about the former five-star recruit concerns the level of competition he faced at Colorado the past two seasons. The 6-foot-5, 307-pound Seaton boasts rare quickness and agility. If he passes the SEC test, he has a chance to be the first blocker taken next year, and long off the board by this point. 

 

18. New York Jets (from Cowboys): CJ Carr, QB, Notre Dame

Armed with three first-round picks in a class widely expected to boast a rich quarterback crop, Jets general manager Darren Mougey probably would get run out of town if he didn’t invest a single Day 1 pick on the game’s most important position. Carr is an intriguing fit for New York because he showed exciting awareness and accuracy as a first-year starter last year for Notre Dame and is perhaps better prepared for the mental rigors of playing in the Big Apple — given the scrutiny he’s endured with the Irish along with being the grandson of former Michigan head coach Lloyd Carr. 

CJ Carr and Dante Moore in Joel Klatt’s preseason All-American team Joel Klatt Show

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19. Cincinnati Bengals: KJ Bolden, S, Georgia

The Bengals traditionally use their first-round selections on big, fast athletes with high ceilings, but they might make an exception with Bolden. Officially listed by Georgia at 6-0, 195 pounds, Bolden is slighter than most teams want at safety, but his instincts, physicality and closing speed pop off the tape. 

20. Denver Broncos: Jamari Johnson, TE, Oregon

The Broncos boast one of the NFL’s most well-rounded rosters, and I think they’ll be picking later than DraftKings’ current projection. Even after investing a couple of Day 3 picks on tight ends in 2026, the position remains one of the few that I think Denver could use reinforcement. Remember, veterans Evan Engram and Lucas Krull are impending free agents. Johnson was overshadowed by Kenyon Sadiq at Oregon last year, but he’s one of my favorite breakout candidates this season. 

21. Houston Texans: Bryant Wesco Jr., WR, Clemson

Catastrophic injuries to Tank Dell and now Jayden Higgins are compromising the Texans’ passing attack and stunting the development of young quarterback C.J. Stroud. Rather than banking on a return to health from the undeniably talented pass-catchers already on the roster, GM Nick Caserio may opt to add to the room. A Texas native who inherited his parents’ track-star speed, Wesco could be a perfect fit for Houston.  

C.J. Stroud Has the MOST on the Line, This Is the Cowboys’ Best Roster in YEARS | FTF

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22. Detroit Lions: Cade Pieper, C, Iowa

With expected starting center Cade Maye fracturing his wrist in training camp, Detroit GM Brad Holmes might wish that he could invest his club’s 2027 first-round pick on Pieper right now. It isn’t often that teams are willing to select centers in the first round, but if Pieper’s transition to center (from right guard) this season goes as expected, he’ll earn it. He’s the most intriguing interior offensive lineman of this class.

23. Los Angeles Chargers: Jyaire Hill, CB, Michigan

Recruited by Jim Harbaugh to Michigan, Hill could be traveling west to rejoin his former head coach. The 6-foot-2, 189-pound Hill doesn’t have the gaudy statistics one normally associates with first-round cornerbacks (two career interceptions), but his length and physicality project well to the next level and I think he’ll flourish under Kyle Whittingham in Ann Arbor this fall. 

Jyaire Hill has the size, if not the stats, that project well to the NFL game. (Photo by Michael Hirschuber/Getty Images)

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24. San Francisco 49ers: Yhonzae Pierre, Edge, Alabama

Everyone knows that Nick Bosa is one of the NFL’s elite edge rushers, but he’s missed a lot of action over his career and is coming off a third torn ACL. Whether it be to complement Bosa or plan for the future, the 49ers must invest in more pass-rushers, and Pierre has both the twitch and toughness that would fit well with their current bunch.

25. Kansas City Chiefs: Charlie Becker, WR, Indiana

There have been more flashes than consistency from top Kansas City receivers Rashee Rice and Xavier Worthy since they entered the NFL in 2023 and 2024, respectively. Perhaps it all comes together for one (or both) this year. If not, Becker is a polished route-runner and hands-catcher whose dependability could be especially coveted by the Chiefs. 

26. Dallas Cowboys (from Packers): Kewan Lacy, RB, Ole Miss

I’m a believer in Javonte Williams and head coach Brian Schottenheimer’s offense, but I think the Cowboys will consider adding more juice to their backfield in the near future. It isn’t often that NFL teams are willing to invest a first-round pick on a running back who weighs less than 200 pounds, but Lacy led the SEC with 306 touches and 24 rushing touchdowns a year ago. Some scouts believe he is the second coming of De’Von Achane. 

Dallas Cowboys NFC Nightmare ?? The 2026 Reality No One Wants To Accept

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27. New England Patriots: Tae Johnson, S, Notre Dame

As one might expect of the defending AFC champs, the Patriots boast one of the league’s most complete rosters. Depth at safety is a question, however, especially with veterans Kevin Byard and Mike Brown approaching free agency. Johnson has size (6-foot-2, 195 pounds), speed and ball-hawking skills. 

28. Philadelphia Eagles: Ashton Hampton, CB, Clemson

Yes, the Eagles boast reigning All-Pros Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean at cornerback, but both will be seeking a big payday soon enough, while fellow projected starter Riq Woolen is on a one-year deal. The 6-foot-3, 204-pound Hampton looks the part of a future NFL star and has flashy tape, but his technique is inconsistent. Given all the talent in Philly, this defense could be the perfect spot for him to blossom. 

29. Baltimore Ravens: Austin Siereveld, OL, Ohio State

Siereveld was the Buckeyes’ starting left tackle a year ago and plays with surprising balance at 6-foot-5, 325 pounds. I think he might be even better inside at guard or center due to his broad, powerful frame.   

30. Seattle Seahawks: Matayo Uiagalelei, Edge, Oregon

A fearsome “Darkside” defense powered the Seahawks’ Super Bowl run, but reinforcements are needed on the edge. DeMarcus Lawrence has already announced that this will be his final season in the NFL, while Uchenna Nwosu (who turns 30 in December) is in the final year of his deal. Enter the 6-foot-5, 265-pound Uiagalelei? He wins against the pass and the run with his length, power and pro-ready technique. 

Matayo Uiagalelei is the younger brother of Chargers backup QB DJ Uiagalelei. (Photo by Chris Arjoon/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

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31. Buffalo Bills: Ahmad Moten, DT, Miami

Ed Oliver was limited to just three games a season ago due to injury and is grieving the tragic drowning of his 2-year-old son. Buffalo is another situation where the general manager might wish he could use his 2027 first-round pick on a more immediate contributor at a specific position. Should the Bills wait until the draft, adding Moten would make a lot of sense. While he needs to prove that last year’s breakout was not merely the byproduct of opponents focusing heavily on 2026 first-round edge rushers Rueben Bain Jr. (Bucs) and Akheem Mesidor (Chargers), Moten has all the traits to earn first-round consideration. 

32. Cleveland Browns (from Rams): Sam Leavitt, QB, LSU

For decades, Browns fans have wished their beloved team would earn the final first-round pick of a given NFL draft. Well, having acquired the Rams’ first-rounder in the Myles Garrett trade might finally provide the opportunity. In the interest of securing the No. 32 pick via winning the Super Bowl, Cleveland will almost certainly target a quarterback on Day 1 of the 2027 draft. One intriguing option is Leavitt, who flashed at Arizona State and I believe will flourish at LSU with Lane Kiffin.

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The Boston Red Sox visit the Baltimore Orioles on Thursday, September 3, 2026 at 7:15 p.m. ET from Oriole Park at Camden Yards, Baltimore, MD.

The Orioles enter at 69-71, while the Red Sox sit at 75-65. Brandon Young (9-3, 3.38 ERA in 130.1 innings) takes the mound for the Orioles, opposed by Jake Bennett (9-6, 3.27 ERA in 93.2 innings). The Red Sox’s 264 hits in the month of August are the most in the MLB in the 2026 regular season, while the Orioles’ 114 walks on breaking balls are the most in the MLB in the 2026 regular season.

Below, we’ll give you all the details you need to know about how to watch this game.

How to Watch Red Sox vs. Orioles

• When: Thursday, September 3, 2026 at 7:15 p.m. ET
• Where: Oriole Park at Camden Yards, Baltimore, MD
• TV: FOX
• Stream: Watch 3 days free on FOX One, FOX Sports

Players to Watch

Alonso has been the anchor of Baltimore’s offense all season, leading the Orioles with 32 home runs and 91 RBIs. He returns to the lineup healthy after a Monday scare, and he arrives red hot: a 1.050 OPS with nine home runs in August alone. 

This game also sets up as a test of whether Baltimore can break through against a Boston staff that owns a 3.64 ERA and 1.239 WHIP, both better than the Orioles’ season marks on the mound. Beating a staff like that early is exactly the kind of production Baltimore needs from the middle of its order in a tight wild card chase.

Henderson has already put a charge into this exact matchup. In the Orioles’ 5 to 1 win over Boston on July 22, he scored twice and added a triple, and in the 6 to 5 loss on July 20, he went 3 for 5 with three doubles. He ranks second on the club with 22 home runs and 57 RBIs, giving Baltimore a second consistent power source behind Alonso.

Against a Red Sox team that has allowed a .242 opponent batting average and a .687 opponent OPS this season, Henderson’s ability to create loud contact matters. Keeping him locked in on hard contact gives Baltimore’s offense a real chance to pressure a Boston club that has been the stronger run prevention side all year.

With Willson Contreras on the injured list, more of Boston’s offense now runs through Abreu, who is second on the Red Sox in both home runs, with 23, and RBIs, with 70. He already has a taste of success in this series too: in Boston’s 8 to 1 win on June 3, he drove in three runs.

The broader matchup fits his importance. Baltimore’s pitching staff has a 4.16 ERA, a 1.346 WHIP and ranks 21st in WHIP and 23rd in strikeouts. That gives Boston’s lineup a chance to put balls in play and build innings. Abreu turning that traffic into runs would let Boston lean into the edge it has shown all season in run prevention and overall record.

The way this opener plays out could hinge on command from the mound, and that puts real weight on Bennett’s start as Boston’s projected opener. The Red Sox have been one of the better pitching teams in the American League all season, ranking fourth in ERA and sixth in WHIP, and Bennett steps into a favorable team context behind that staff. He also started the July 22 meeting that Boston won 6 to 3.

His assignment is especially important against an Orioles lineup that has hit 169 home runs but owns a .235 team batting average and a .714 OPS. Baltimore can still punish mistakes, especially with Alonso and Henderson in the middle, so Bennett’s command will be the key. Keeping the ball under control and limiting free baserunners would put Boston in position to protect its wild card standing.

Red Sox vs. Orioles Odds

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The Milwaukee Brewers visit the Chicago Cubs on Thursday, September 3, 2026 at 6:15 p.m. CT from Wrigley Field, Chicago, IL.

The Chicago Cubs enter at 78-62, while the Milwaukee Brewers sit at 87-53. Kevin Gausman (8-11, 4.52 ERA in 155.1 innings) takes the mound for the Cubs, opposed by Logan Henderson (9-2, 2.48 ERA in 76.1 innings).

Below, we’ll give you all the details you need to know about how to watch this game.

How to Watch Brewers vs. Cubs

• When: Thursday, September 3, 2026 at 6:15 p.m. CT
• Where: Wrigley Field, Chicago, IL
• TV: FOX
• Stream: Watch 3 days free on FOX One, FOX Sports

Players to Watch

Chicago leads all of baseball in almost every meaningful offensive category, and Crow-Armstrong sits right at the center of that production. The Cubs lead MLB in home runs, RBI, on-base percentage, slugging percentage and OPS, and Crow-Armstrong leads the team with 38 home runs and 91 RBI. Over his last 10 games, he has gone 14 for 45 with seven home runs, making him the biggest power threat in this lineup heading into this divisional game. 

Milwaukee counters with one of the sport’s stingiest pitching staffs, ranking second in ERA, third in WHIP and second in strikeouts. That kind of staff has shut down plenty of lineups this season, which is why Crow-Armstrong’s power stands out as the one matchup Milwaukee’s shutdown staff can’t fully account for.

Milwaukee’s pitching staff does not hand out many scoring chances, which makes Suzuki’s supporting punch behind Crow-Armstrong that much more important. Suzuki is second on the Cubs with 24 home runs and 80 RBI this season, and in a game where Chicago may need to cash in on limited opportunities, his run production profile stands out. 

Scoring against Milwaukee’s staff has been difficult all year, evidenced by a .221 opponent batting average and a .658 opponent OPS this season. Chicago still owns the league’s best team OPS at .773, and Suzuki’s production against a staff built to suppress it will be a key factor in whether the Cubs’ offense holds up on the road.

Milwaukee wins with contact and on-base skill more than raw power, and Turang is the clearest example of that identity. The Brewers rank 30th in home runs but are third in batting average, second in on-base percentage, third in RBI and sixth in stolen bases. Turang leads Milwaukee with 78 RBI and is also one of the club’s top power contributors with 17 home runs, making him a central run creator in a lineup built more on pressure than pure slug.

Chicago’s own pitching tells a different story, ranking 16th in ERA and already surrendering 211 home runs, among the most in baseball this season. A staff prone to giving up the long ball is exactly the matchup where Turang’s contact-first approach can turn into extra bases, and every run he creates chips away at a Cubs staff that has struggled to keep the ball in the yard.

Recent form is squarely in Yelich’s favor entering this series. In Tuesday’s win over the Cubs, he went 1 for 4 with a two-run homer, a walk and two runs scored, and over his last eight games he is 10 for 27, batting .370 with five extra-base hits. That kind of short-term surge matters in a series between the top two teams in the division.

Chicago’s offense carries this roster, but the pitching side hasn’t kept pace, posting a 4.17 team ERA and giving up home runs at one of the highest rates in the league this season. Yelich has already shown he can exploit that weakness, and the Brewers will need more of the same from him if they want to protect their spot atop the NL Central.

Brewers vs. Cubs Odds

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Illinois will host UAB on Thursday in a Week 1 college football matchup on Big Ten Network.

Bret Bielema is back leading the charge for the Fighting Illini, looking to follow up their 9-4 season in 2025. There’s a new quarterback calling the shots in Champaign, as East Carolina transfer Katin Houser gets the start for the Fighting Illini after Luke Altmyer left for the NFL.

Houser comes in with 26 career starts, including 19 at ECU. In 2025, he threw for 3,330 yards, which ranked 21st in the country and third in the AAC, along with 19 touchdowns and just six interceptions. He was also a factor on the ground, adding 282 non-sack rushing yards and nine touchdowns.

Meanwhile, UAB head coach Alex Mortensen took over the program midway through last season, helping the Blazers upset No. 22 Memphis. After spending three seasons as UAB’s offensive coordinator, Mortensen will now enter his first full season at the helm, looking to lead the Blazers to their first winning season since 2021.

Let’s take a look at the odds for Illinois vs. UAB at DraftKings Sportsbook as of Sept. 3. 

This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports.

   UAB @ Illinois Odds

Moneyline

[–>
• Illinois: -4500 (bet $10 to win $10.22 total)
• UAB: +1700 (bet $10 to win $180 total)

Spread 

• Illinois -27.5: -108 (bet $10 to win $19.26 total)
• UAB +27.5: -112 (bet $10 to win $18.93 total)

Over/Under

• Over 54.5: -112 (bet $10 to win $18.93 total)
• Under 54.5: -108 (bet $10 to win $19.26 total)

   UAB @ Illinois Prediction, Pick

From FOX Sports Research:

It’s a total rebrand for this UAB team. With only three returning starters, 39 transfers, and quarterback Ryder Burton making just his third career start, this isn’t the best recipe for success against a team like Illinois. The Fighting Illini have scored at least 30 points in every season opener under Bret Bielema, and they’ve averaged 48.5 points in their last two season openers. With so much turnover for UAB entering the season, keeping this game within four touchdowns against an experienced head coach like Bielema will be a tall task. Take the Fighting Illini to cover.

   The Pick: Illinois -27.5

How to Watch Illinois vs. UAB

• Date: Thursday, Sept. 3, 2026
• Time: 9 p.m. ET
• TV: BTN
• Stream: Watch 3 days free on FOX One, FOXSports.com, FOX Sports App
• Location: Gies Memorial Stadium, Champaign, Illinois

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