The Baltimore Ravens will face the Pittsburgh Steelers in a crucial game that will determine which team advances to the playoffs. Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson may not play due to a back injury, and coach John Harbaugh has provided limited updates on his return. The game is important for both teams, as the winner takes the AFC North division title.
Key Facts
The Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers will compete for the AFC North division title.
The match is part of the Week 18 Sunday Night Football schedule.
The winner of the game goes to the playoffs, while the loser is eliminated.
Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson missed the previous game due to a back injury.
Derrick Henry led the Ravens to victory against the Green Bay Packers in Week 17.
Ravens coach John Harbaugh gave an uncertain update on Jackson's playing status.
Jackson has played 12 games this season with significant passing and rushing contributions.
More information on Jackson's availability is expected later in the week.
Ranger Suárez, a longtime Philadelphia Phillies pitcher, is uncertain about where he will sign next as a free agent. The Chicago Cubs are a possible team that might sign him, given their need for better starting pitchers and their capability to offer him a longer contract.
Key Facts
Ranger Suárez is a free-agent pitcher from the Philadelphia Phillies.
The Baltimore Orioles were initially interested in Suárez, but recent trades might change that.
The Chicago Cubs and Houston Astros are potential teams that might sign Suárez.
The Cubs have a bigger need for Suárez compared to the Astros based on recent pitching performance rankings.
The Cubs could potentially offer Suárez a five-year contract to enhance their team strength.
The Astros already have a high payroll and several players on long-term contracts.
Spring training camps are set to open in about a month and a half, adding urgency to Suárez's decision.
The Toronto Blue Jays might lose their key player, Bo Bichette, in free agency, but they have a promising prospect named Cutter Coffey. Coffey, who was traded from the Boston Red Sox, has been performing well and could potentially become a star player in the future.
Key Facts
The Toronto Blue Jays may lose Bo Bichette, their main shortstop, to free agency.
Bichette could join teams like the Boston Red Sox or New York Yankees.
The Blue Jays have several talented infielders and prospects.
Cutter Coffey is a promising infield prospect for the Blue Jays.
Coffey was acquired from the Red Sox in a trade involving catcher Danny Jansen.
He performed well in the Arizona Fall League, hitting .328 over 18 games.
Coffey might advance to Double-A soon and is seen as a potential future star.
The New York Mets are considering making a trade to improve their outfield. They have lost some key players in free agency and are looking into options like trading for Luis Robert Jr. from the Chicago White Sox to strengthen their roster.
Key Facts
The New York Mets missed the postseason last year and want to strengthen their team for the next season.
The Mets have lost players Pete Alonso and Edwin Diaz in free agency.
Luis Robert Jr. from the Chicago White Sox is a potential trade target to improve the Mets' outfield.
Tyrone Taylor and Carson Benge are currently top candidates for the Mets' outfield alongside Juan Soto.
If other options like Kyle Tucker or Cody Bellinger are not available, the Mets may focus on a trade for Robert.
Luis Robert Jr. has shown star quality but has struggled in recent seasons.
The trade would be considered an "upside play," meaning high potential for reward if successful.
West Ham United is supporting their manager, Nuno Espirito Santo, as they prepare to buy new players in the January transfer window. The team is currently struggling in the Premier League, sitting near the bottom of the standings and facing potential relegation. Despite recent losses, club officials believe Nuno can improve the team's performance with new signings.
Key Facts
Nuno Espirito Santo became West Ham's manager on September 25.
West Ham is currently third from the bottom in the Premier League standings.
The club plans to provide funds for new player signings in January to help improve results.
West Ham has suffered three losses in a row, affecting their league position.
Nuno's team has only managed one clean sheet this Premier League season, meaning they have only kept opponents from scoring once.
West Ham's current points per game average under Nuno is 0.77.
Only Burnley and Wolves have collected fewer points than West Ham since Nuno took over.
West Ham has won only 13 points from 18 games this season, similar to the 2010-11 season when they finished bottom of the league.
The Baltimore Orioles have re-signed pitcher Zach Eflin on a one-year, $10 million contract. To make room for Eflin on their roster, the Orioles designated outfielder Will Robertson for assignment, meaning he may join another team or move to a lower-level team. Robertson has struggled to secure a spot in the major leagues, having been claimed by multiple teams without playing a game for them.
Key Facts
The Orioles re-signed Zach Eflin with a one-year contract worth $10 million.
To accommodate Eflin, the Orioles designated Will Robertson for assignment.
Robertson was previously claimed off waivers from the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Robertson has also been on waivers with the Chicago White Sox and Toronto Blue Jays.
He hasn't yet hit a major league home run and has a .316 OPS over 27 games.
Robertson turned 28 two days before being designated for assignment.
The Orioles have recently strengthened their outfield with other players, making it difficult for Robertson to secure a spot.
The Chicago Cubs are preparing for the upcoming season by strengthening their bullpen. They are considering internal talent, particularly Porter Hodge, who had a successful season last year but faced challenges this year. Manager Craig Counsell and other team leaders believe Hodge can be a key player if he returns to form.
Key Facts
The Cubs have added several new pitchers to their bullpen during the offseason.
Porter Hodge was a breakout star for the Cubs last season with a strong performance.
This year, Hodge struggled with an ERA of 6.27 and faced demotion to Triple-A.
Cubs manager Craig Counsell sees Hodge's improvement as critical to the team's success.
General manager Carter Hawkins compared Hodge to another successful Cubs reliever, Daniel Palencia.
Last year, Hodge had a 1.88 ERA in 43 innings and served as a closer late in the season.
The Cubs' playoff success may partly depend on Hodge's ability to return to his previous form.
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Key Facts
theScore Bet offers a $100 bonus to new users with the promo code NEWSWEEK.
Users must place an initial bet of $10, and the bet must win to get the bonus.
The Rams-Falcons game is suggested as an option for placing bets.
Other betting markets include spreads and player performances, such as passing and receiving yards.
Additional in-app promotions include profit boosts on various sports events like NBA and college football.
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The bonuses must be used within one week of receiving them.
Newsweek may earn a commission if users sign up through links in the article.
Marcus Freeman, head coach of the Notre Dame football team, has confirmed he will remain with the team, despite interest from the NFL. Freeman announced his commitment to Notre Dame on social media and has agreed to a new contract extension, ensuring he will stay with the team for the next few years.
Key Facts
Marcus Freeman is the head coach of Notre Dame's football team.
He has been considered for NFL head coaching positions, including the New York Giants.
Freeman confirmed on social media that he will continue with Notre Dame until at least 2026.
He signed a six-year contract extension, which includes an increase in pay.
Notre Dame's athletic director, Pete Bevacqua, is committed to keeping Freeman well compensated.
Freeman previously turned down an NFL opportunity with the Chicago Bears.
He is regarded as highly successful and is gaining attention both in college football and beyond.
Liv Morgan returned to WWE action after being out for over six months due to a shoulder injury. She participated in a WWE "Holiday Tour" event in Tampa, Florida, where she claimed to be the "greatest of all time" after her victory. Her return adds excitement to WWE, but her next appearance on television is not yet confirmed.
Key Facts
Liv Morgan returned to wrestling after a shoulder injury kept her out for over six months.
She competed at a WWE event in Tampa, Florida, and won against Lyra Valkyria.
Morgan declared herself the "greatest of all time" following her victory.
Her return happened earlier than expected due to her determination.
Teammate Raquel Rodriguez talked about Morgan's strong desire to succeed and rehab.
There is no current information on when Morgan will appear on WWE television next.
The Los Angeles Lakers are being advised to consider a major trade involving LeBron James and Jimmy Butler from the Golden State Warriors. The proposal suggests that the trade could benefit both teams by adding excitement and better fitting team dynamics. LeBron is currently experiencing a career-low performance, while the Warriors look to reinvigorate their team strategy.
Key Facts
The Lakers currently have a 20-10 record in the Western Conference.
Luka Doncic leads the league in scoring with 33.7 points per game since joining the Lakers.
LeBron James is averaging career-low stats of 20.5 points, 6.7 assists, and 4.9 rebounds per game.
A trade idea suggests swapping LeBron James for Jimmy Butler with the Warriors.
Jimmy Butler plays a key defensive role for the Warriors, who have a 16-16 record.
The Warriors have shifted to a more defensive strategy under Butler.
Salary rules and player age are challenges for any potential trade between the Lakers and Warriors.
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes is currently undergoing rehabilitation for knee injuries and will not play in the upcoming game against the Las Vegas Raiders. Coach Andy Reid shared that Mahomes is working hard on his recovery, but he will miss the trip to Las Vegas as he continues to heal. The Chiefs are facing changes as both their star quarterback and tight end Travis Kelce have uncertain futures.
Key Facts
Patrick Mahomes is rehabilitating from a knee injury.
He tore his ACL and LCL on December 14, 2025, against the Los Angeles Chargers.
The typical recovery time for an ACL injury is about nine months.
Mahomes' injury includes an LCL complication, which could extend recovery.
Mahomes had surgery shortly after the injury and is actively working on his rehab.
Coach Andy Reid confirmed Mahomes will not travel for the game against the Las Vegas Raiders.
Tight end Travis Kelce's potential retirement is also in the news.
The 2025 season marks the Chiefs' first losing season since 2012 and no playoff presence since 2014.
Arsenal will play against Aston Villa in an English Premier League match at the Emirates Stadium in London. Aston Villa, under coach Unai Emery, have made significant improvements and are just three points behind Arsenal, who regained the top spot after defeating Brighton. Villa has recently won eight league games in a row and is considered a strong competitor this season.
Key Facts
The match is between Arsenal and Aston Villa in the English Premier League.
Game time is set for Tuesday at 8:15pm GMT at Emirates Stadium in London.
Aston Villa has won eight Premier League games in a row and 11 in all competitions, the best streak since 1914.
Unai Emery, the Aston Villa coach, previously managed Arsenal and was dismissed in 2019.
Aston Villa trails Arsenal by only three points in the league standings.
Arsenal reclaimed the top league position after a 2-1 win over Brighton.
Villa's recent victory was a 2-1 comeback win away at Chelsea.
Aston Villa qualified for European competitions in the past three seasons under Emery.
Quarterback Dylan Raiola is leaving Nebraska and is expected to transfer to Oregon. Raiola, a highly rated recruit, had a challenging time at Nebraska but is looking to revitalize his college career and prepare for the NFL. Oregon is considered a strong destination, offering him a high-profile platform.
Key Facts
Dylan Raiola is a quarterback who played for Nebraska.
He is a five-star recruit, which means he is highly rated by scouting services.
Raiola entered the transfer portal, which allows college athletes to move schools without losing eligibility.
He has faced challenges at Nebraska, including injuries and errors.
Oregon is predicted to be his next team, according to the article.
Raiola aims to prepare for a possible future in the NFL by transferring.
Oregon is a well-known college football team that often competes at a high level.
Raiola's move would keep him in a major collegiate athletic conference.
The Kansas City Chiefs are finishing a challenging season without making the playoffs for the first time in ten years under coach Andy Reid. Despite speculation about changes for the team and Reid's future, Reid confirmed he plans to continue as head coach in 2026.
Key Facts
The Chiefs have a record of 6-10 this season.
This is the first time in ten years that the Chiefs are not making the playoffs under Andy Reid.
Patrick Mahomes, a key player, is recovering from a torn ACL.
Travis Kelce, a veteran player, has not yet decided if he will retire.
Andy Reid confirmed his intention to return as head coach in 2026 at age 67.
Reid joined the Chiefs in 2013 and has led them to significant successes, including Super Bowl victories.
Under Reid, the Chiefs reached five Super Bowls, winning three, and dominated their division for nine years.
The Dallas Cowboys signed Jadeveon Clowney to a one-year contract for the 2025 NFL season after trading away Micah Parsons. Clowney performed well, and the Cowboys are considering re-signing him. The team's executive vice president expressed interest in keeping Clowney with the Cowboys.
Key Facts
The Dallas Cowboys needed a new pass rusher after trading Micah Parsons.
They signed Jadeveon Clowney to a one-year deal.
Clowney played in 12 games in the 2025 season.
He recorded 35 tackles, 5.5 sacks, a fumble recovery, and three defended passes.
The Cowboys' executive vice president, Stephen Jones, indicated they want to discuss Clowney's future with his representatives.
Clowney was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft.
Over his career, Clowney has played 152 games with 444 tackles and 63.5 sacks.
Manchester United's head coach, Ruben Amorim, decided to change the team's formation against Newcastle United from a back three to a back four. He did this to adapt to the team's current situation and not due to media pressure. Several key players, including captain Bruno Fernandes, are currently unavailable due to injuries.
Key Facts
Ruben Amorim changed Manchester United's formation against Newcastle from a back three to a back four.
This change resulted in only their second clean sheet of the season.
Amorim stated he can only modify the formation when the team performs well, to avoid appearing influenced by external pressures.
Amorim is managing with a reduced squad due to injuries, with seven senior players out and more potentially missing.
Captain Bruno Fernandes will not play against Wolverhampton Wanderers due to a hamstring injury.
Fernandes remains actively involved with the team, even when not playing, as he continues to lead and support fellow teammates.
Other injured players include Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt, and Harry Maguire, with return dates uncertain for some.
Some players will be back from the Africa Cup of Nations by the end of January.
USC head coach Lincoln Riley responded to criticism from Notre Dame and other parties about scheduling issues for their football game. Notre Dame wanted to avoid an early-season game against USC, while USC worried that a late-season loss could hurt their playoff chances. Riley expressed hope for resolving the scheduling issue and continuing the rivalry.
Key Facts
USC and Notre Dame faced a scheduling conflict over their football game.
USC preferred to play earlier in the season, while Notre Dame wanted a later game.
USC head coach Lincoln Riley criticized Notre Dame for not agreeing to play at any time.
Riley mentioned a proposal to continue the series for the next two years was rejected by Notre Dame.
Notre Dame quickly replaced USC with BYU on their schedule.
Riley hopes the rivalry can continue in the future.
USC and Notre Dame have a history of competitive games, with Notre Dame leading the series 51 wins to USC's 37.
British boxer Anthony Joshua was involved in a car accident in Nigeria that resulted in the death of two people. Joshua, who was slightly injured, was taken to the hospital, and local authorities are investigating the incident.
Key Facts
Anthony Joshua, a British boxer, was in a car accident in Nigeria's Ogun State.
The crash happened on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway.
Two people died in the accident, and Joshua had minor injuries.
The police are investigating what caused the accident.
Joshua was traveling in a Lexus with three other people.
The crash involved a stationary vehicle.
Joshua was in Nigeria following his recent boxing win against Jake Paul.
Georgia Southern and Appalachian State, both part of the Sun Belt Conference, will face each other in the Birmingham Bowl on December 29, 2025. Georgia Southern is coming into the game with a stronger recent record, while Appalachian State has faced several player losses this season.
Key Facts
The game is scheduled for Monday, December 29, 2025, at 2:00 PM ET.
It will be televised on ESPN and ESPN Deportes and available for live streaming on Fubo.
Georgia Southern finished the season with a 6-6 record, having won three of its last four games.
Key players for Georgia Southern include quarterback JC French IV, who threw 19 touchdowns, and receiver Camden Brown, who caught 14 touchdowns.
Appalachian State's record is 5-7, with losses in five of their last six games.
Appalachian State lost several players to the transfer portal, including quarterbacks AJ Swann and JJ Kohl.
Noah Gillon is expected to start as quarterback for Appalachian State.
Georgia Southern won the previous matchup against Appalachian State on November 6 with a score of 25-23.
