The Los Angeles Dodgers are considering trading for Detroit Tigers' pitcher Tarik Skubal. This potential trade might happen by the July trade deadline. The Dodgers need Skubal to boost their chances of winning another title.
Key Facts
The Dodgers might trade for Tarik Skubal from the Detroit Tigers.
Rumors about this trade started during the offseason and peaked at the Winter Meetings.
The Dodgers considered including pitcher Tyler Glasnow in the trade but decided not to.
The Dodgers have other prospects they can offer in a trade for Skubal.
A deal depends on whether the Tigers are still competing for the playoffs by the trade deadline.
The Dodgers are aiming for another championship and might trade for Skubal even as a short-term option.
The Minnesota Vikings will have JJ McCarthy start as quarterback in their final game of the season against the Green Bay Packers. McCarthy missed previous games due to a hand injury, but he has no injury designation for this game. The Vikings have no playoff stakes in this game, but want to assess McCarthy's performance.
Key Facts
The Vikings will start JJ McCarthy in Week 18 against the Packers despite his recent hand injury.
McCarthy missed the last game and a half but is now cleared to play.
The Vikings have an 8-8 record and no playoff opportunities in this game.
Green Bay's quarterback Jordan Love is out due to a concussion, and backup Malik Willis is questionable.
The Vikings currently hold the 17th draft pick for next year.
Minnesota wants to end the season with a winning record and evaluate McCarthy's performance.
McCarthy has experienced various injuries this season, affecting his playtime.
The team may consider adding more quarterbacks next season to compete with McCarthy.
The Miami Hurricanes football team is preparing for an upcoming season by making a Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) offer to Brendan Sorsby, a top quarterback from the transfer portal. Miami wants to replace current senior quarterback Carson Beck, whose eligibility is ending. Sorsby is considering offers from Miami, LSU, and Texas Tech.
Key Facts
Miami Hurricanes are close to winning their sixth national championship.
Senior quarterback Carson Beck is leaving soon, so Miami needs a new quarterback.
Miami has offered an NIL deal to Brendan Sorsby, a top quarterback in the transfer portal.
Sorsby is a dual-threat quarterback, meaning he can pass and run effectively.
Sorsby has already visited or plans to visit LSU and Texas Tech.
LSU and Texas Tech have significant NIL budgets, but Miami also has a large one.
Sorsby has an impressive college record with over 7,200 yards and 60 touchdowns.
The United States and Finland will compete in a quarterfinal match of the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship on Friday, January 2, 2026, in Minnesota. The U.S. team, known for its strong performance, aims to move to the semifinals using its offensive strategy and recently enhanced defense. Finland enters with structured gameplay and strong defense, hoping to advance by surprising the U.S. team.
Key Facts
The game will take place in Minnesota as part of the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship quarterfinals.
Team USA aims to continue its high-scoring performance and has recently reinforced its defense.
Cole Hutson, a key U.S. defenseman, has returned after an injury.
Finland finished third in its group, entering the knockout stage with a strong style of play.
The match is crucial, as only one team will advance to the semifinals.
The game will be broadcasted on NHL Network and available for streaming on Fubo.
Both teams have a history of competitive games against each other.
The match starts at 6:00 PM ET on January 2, 2026.
This article discusses a promotion from Sleeper, a daily fantasy sports platform, where new users can receive a $100 deposit bonus using the promo code NEWSWEEKXL. The bonus applies to daily fantasy games for sports such as the NBA, NFL, college football, and college basketball. The article also highlights key upcoming NFL games with playoff implications.
Key Facts
Sleeper offers a $100 deposit bonus for new users who use the promo code NEWSWEEKXL.
The promotion gives a 100% match on deposits up to $100.
Players can make picks in sports like the NBA, NFL, college football, and college basketball.
The NFL Week 18 games, like the Panthers vs. Buccaneers and Seahawks vs. 49ers, have significant playoff implications.
To activate the bonus, users must create a new Sleeper account and make a cash deposit.
Accepted payment methods for the deposit include online banking, PayPal, Apple Pay, credit and debit cards.
Newsweek may earn a commission if people sign up through links in the article.
The article outlines that Sleeper is a popular choice for daily fantasy sports players.
The article explains a promotion from Underdog, a daily fantasy sports app, where new users can sign up with the promo code "NEWSWEEK". By starting with a $5 play, users receive a $75 bonus, regardless of the outcome of their initial pick. The offer is available for NBA games and other sports like college football and basketball.
Key Facts
Underdog is offering a $75 bonus to new users who sign up using the "NEWSWEEK" promo code.
To get the bonus, users need to start with a $5 play on any sporting event.
The bonus is given regardless of the outcome of the $5 pick.
A variety of sports are available for picks, including NBA, college football, and basketball.
The promotion helps new users get accustomed to the Underdog app.
Underdog Predict, a feature for picking teams and events, is available in select U.S. states without a sign-up bonus.
Newsweek may earn a commission if users sign up through links provided in the article.
A new promo code offer gives users a $10 bonus for making predictions on NBA and NFL games using the Kalshi platform. Users need to make $100 in predictions to unlock this bonus. The article outlines specific NBA and NFL games where predictions can be made.
Key Facts
Kalshi is offering a $10 bonus for new users who use the promo code NEWSWEEK and make $100 in predictions.
The offer includes predictions on NBA and NFL games happening over the weekend.
NBA game highlights include matchups like Hawks vs. Knicks and Thunder vs. Warriors.
NFL games include Panthers vs. Buccaneers and Seahawks vs. 49ers, with playoff spots on the line.
New users need to provide personal details and make an initial deposit to get started.
Kalshi also offers markets for predictions on other events, like politics and weather.
The platform allows users to sell their predictions for profit if outcomes change.
The article discusses NFL running backs who might be valuable in fantasy football during Week 18 of the season. Some teams are resting key players, giving backups a chance to perform well. The article highlights Tony Pollard, Tank Bigsby, Jared Patterson, Emanuel Wilson, and Audric Estime as players to watch.
Key Facts
Tony Pollard, playing for the Tennessee Titans, needs 66 rushing yards to reach 1,100 yards this season and earn a bonus.
Pollard could also earn an additional bonus if he scores two more touchdowns.
Tank Bigsby of the Philadelphia Eagles is expected to receive more carries as some starters rest.
Jared Patterson of the Los Angeles Chargers might play actively due to other players potentially being inactive.
Emanuel Wilson of the Green Bay Packers is likely to lead in rushing since Josh Jacobs is expected to be inactive.
Audric Estime, who plays for the New Orleans Saints, had a strong performance recently and might play more due to another player's absence.
Ole Miss quarterback Austin Simmons plans to transfer to a different football program after the team's success in the Sugar Bowl. Simmons, who began the season as the starting quarterback, will stay with the team during their College Football Playoff games but is looking to move to another school afterward.
Key Facts
Ole Miss won against Georgia in the Sugar Bowl and advanced in the College Football Playoff.
Austin Simmons, originally the starting quarterback, was sidelined by an injury and replaced by Trinidad Chambliss.
Simmons intends to transfer and has listed himself in the transfer portal with a "do not contact" tag.
He will remain part of the team as a backup during their current playoff run.
Chambliss has had a successful season as the Ole Miss quarterback.
Simmons might transfer to Missouri, an SEC rival, where they need a new starting quarterback.
The transfer portal will close on January 16, 2026.
Ole Miss will play next in the Fiesta Bowl against the Miami Hurricanes.
The article discusses NFL Week 18 games with a focus on the Seattle Seahawks versus San Francisco 49ers matchup. This game will decide the NFC West division winner and determine who gets homefield advantage in the NFC playoffs. The piece also covers betting odds for this game and mentions some player injuries affecting both teams.
Key Facts
The Seahawks and 49ers are competing for the NFC West title in Week 18.
Winner of the game gets homefield advantage in the NFC playoffs.
San Francisco won their earlier season matchup against Seattle.
Seattle's defense has been one of the league's top performers.
San Francisco's offense is on a scoring streak, having scored 90 points in the last two games.
Key 49ers players, like Trent Williams and George Kittle, are questionable due to injuries.
Seahawks are considered Super Bowl favorites by some betting platforms.
Both traditional sportsbooks and prediction markets are offering bets on these games.
Italian golfer Emanuele Galeppini, aged 17, died in a fire at a bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, on New Year's Day. The fire killed at least 40 people and injured over 100, with many in critical condition. Galeppini was recognized as a promising young golfer, having achieved significant success in junior competitions.
Key Facts
Emanuele Galeppini was a 17-year-old Italian golfer.
He died in a fire at Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland.
The fire occurred early on New Year's Day.
At least 40 people died, and over 100 were injured in the fire.
Galeppini was from Genoa but lived in Dubai with his family.
The Italian Golf Federation confirmed his death and expressed condolences.
Galeppini had success in junior golf competitions, winning the 2025 Omega Dubai Creek Amateur Open.
His highest ranking in the World Amateur Golf was 2,440th.
Anthony Joshua's driver, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, has been charged after a crash in Nigeria. The crash injured Joshua and killed two of his team members. The charges against the driver include causing death by dangerous driving.
Key Facts
Anthony Joshua was a passenger in a vehicle that crashed in Nigeria.
The crash resulted in the deaths of Joshua's personal trainer, Latif Ayodele, and his strength coach, Sina Ghami.
Anthony Joshua was injured in the crash but has been discharged from the hospital.
The driver, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, was charged with causing death by dangerous driving and other related charges at Sagamu Magistrates' Court.
The crash involved a collision with a stationary truck on a highway in Ogun state.
The court has set the next hearing date for 20 January.
Joshua expressed sadness over the deaths of his team members and visited a funeral home to pay respects.
Celtic manager Wilfried Nancy spoke about the need for patience as he adjusts to his new role at the club. He has faced criticism after losing five of his first seven matches but remains confident about the future. Nancy emphasized that time and support are crucial for achieving success.
Key Facts
Wilfried Nancy has lost five out of the first seven matches since becoming Celtic's manager.
He took over the managerial role from interim manager Martin O'Neill in December.
Celtic recently lost 2-0 to Motherwell, adding pressure on Nancy.
Celtic is currently three points behind league leaders Hearts and three points ahead of Rangers.
Nancy stated the club's board, players, and staff are supportive of him.
He mentioned having only had 13 training sessions with the team so far.
Nancy asked for more time to prove his methods and improve team performance.
The article discusses backup quarterbacks expected to start in Week 18 of the fantasy football season. Teams like the Philadelphia Eagles and Los Angeles Chargers are resting key players, providing opportunities for backup quarterbacks such as Tanner McKee and Trey Lance. These changes impact fantasy football strategies for players in the final week of the season.
Key Facts
The Eagles will rest their starting players, allowing Tanner McKee to start against the Washington team.
Trey Lance will start for the Chargers, who are playing against the Denver Broncos.
Tyler Shough of the New Orleans Saints faces challenges due to the absence of top receiver Chris Olave.
Aidan O’Connell and Kenny Pickett are expected to share playing time for the Las Vegas Raiders, indicating a low priority on winning the game.
Clayton Tune is set to start for the Green Bay Packers, who are playing in a low-stakes game against the Vikings.
Several quarterbacks are identified as more reliable choices for fantasy football due to their teams still having something to play for in Week 18.
LSU and Tennessee are competing to sign Chaz Coleman, a top defensive player, from the transfer portal. Coleman is leaving Penn State after one year and considering new schools, with the SEC schools LSU and Tennessee showing strong interest.
Key Facts
Chaz Coleman is a highly-ranked pass-rusher leaving Penn State.
He is using the transfer portal to find a new school.
LSU and Tennessee are the main schools interested in signing him.
The transfer portal is a system that allows college athletes to switch schools.
LSU hopes Coleman will help improve their defense.
Tennessee wants to strengthen their team after a mixed 2025 season.
The transfer portal window closes on January 16, 2026.
Bet365 is offering special promotions for new players who join their sports betting platform. By using a specific bonus code, new users can receive bonuses when they place their first bets on various sports like the NBA and NFL. The offers vary by state, providing bonuses of different amounts or a safety net bet option.
Key Facts
Bet365 is giving new players bonuses when they place their first bets using the bonus code WEEK365.
In Missouri, a $10 bet unlocks a $365 bonus for new users.
In states like Arizona, Colorado, and Indiana, a $5 bet provides a $150 bonus or a $1,000 safety net bet.
The safety net bet offers a refund of up to $1,000 in bonuses if the first bet loses.
The promotions apply to bets on sports such as the NBA, NFL, college basketball, and college football.
New accounts must be created to access these offers, requiring a minimum $10 deposit.
Bet365 also provides daily bet boosts on various sports matchups, increasing potential winnings.
Newsweek may earn a commission if users sign up through links in the article.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are set to play against the Baltimore Ravens for the AFC North Division title. Steelers player T.J. Watt, who had surgery after a collapsed lung, is feeling better and ready to return to the game.
Key Facts
The Steelers and Ravens will compete for the AFC North Division title and a home playoff game spot.
The game is scheduled for "Sunday Night Football" on January 4.
Steelers' wide receiver DK Metcalf is suspended due to an altercation with a fan.
Ravens' quarterback Lamar Jackson will play despite a back injury.
T.J. Watt recently returned to practice after recovering from surgery for a collapsed lung.
Watt’s injury was caused by a pain relief method called dry needling.
Watt, a former Defensive Player of the Year, has played in fewer games this season due to injuries.
The Steelers' defense needs to perform well, especially since the offense struggled in a recent game.
A spoiler for the upcoming episode of "WWE SmackDown" suggests that former TNA Knockouts World Champion Jordynne Grace will appear in a pre-recorded segment. This segment will also feature WWE Women's Champion Jade Cargill and wrestler Charlotte Flair. WWE is reportedly bringing several "NXT" wrestlers to the main roster, and Grace is one of the wrestlers expected to move up.
Key Facts
Jordynne Grace is a former TNA Knockouts World Champion.
Grace is set to appear on "WWE SmackDown" in a pre-taped segment.
The segment will include WWE Women's Champion Jade Cargill and Charlotte Flair.
WWE plans to move several "NXT" wrestlers to the main roster.
Trick Williams has already joined the "SmackDown" roster.
Oba Femi and Je'Von Evans are also expected to be moved to "SmackDown" soon.
Grace was a surprise participant in the 2024 women's "Royal Rumble" match.
Grace has been active in WWE's "NXT" with notable rivalries.
The article discusses the potential free agency move of star baseball player Kyle Tucker to the Los Angeles Dodgers. There is speculation about Tucker's high market value and possible team choices as he remains unsigned ahead of the 2026 season.
Key Facts
Kyle Tucker is a star outfielder and a top free agent this offseason.
He visited the Toronto Blue Jays' spring facility as part of his free agency.
The Los Angeles Dodgers and other big market teams are interested in Tucker.
MLB insider Robert Murray suggests the Dodgers are strong candidates to sign Tucker.
Tucker is expected to get a significant contract, possibly over $300 million.
Despite expectations, Tucker remains unsigned before the start of the 2026 season.
BetMGM is offering new users a chance to place a $1,500 first bet on various sports. If their first bet doesn't win, they will get the amount they bet back in bonuses. Users in Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia can also get a special odds boost offer.
Key Facts
BetMGM offers a $1,500 first bet for new users. If the bet loses, users get their money back in bonuses.
The offer is available for NBA, NFL, college basketball, college football, NHL, soccer, and UFC.
Users in Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia can place a $10 bet and receive a $150 bonus if they win, thanks to a 15-1 odds boost.
New accounts can be set up easily using the bonus code NEWSWEEK.
Players need to make a cash deposit of at least $10 to start betting.
BetMGM also offers odds boost tokens for NBA, college basketball, and NHL games.
The article states that sign-ups through Newsweek links could result in affiliate commissions for Newsweek.
