The Alabama Crimson Tide is preparing for a key football game against Georgia, which could affect their chance of making it to the College Football Playoff (CFP). Former Heisman winner Desmond Howard warns that if Alabama loses badly, they might not get into the CFP, as the selection committee remembers past losses.
Key Facts
Alabama is playing Georgia for the SEC conference championship.
Alabama is currently ranked No. 9, while Georgia is No. 3 in the CFP bracket.
Desmond Howard, a former football star, warns Alabama needs to play well against Georgia to improve their playoff chances.
Alabama's earlier loss to Florida is considered a negative factor in their CFP chances.
Howard says a bad loss to Georgia might keep Alabama out of the CFP, similar to their experience last season.
Alabama has already beaten Georgia on the road this season.
The game between Alabama and Georgia is scheduled for Saturday at 4 p.m. Eastern Time.
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The New York Mets are expected to sign pitcher Framber Valdez to a seven-year deal worth $218 million. The Mets are looking to improve their team by adding a top-quality starting pitcher after missing out on the playoffs due to a weak pitching rotation last season.
Key Facts
The Mets missed the playoffs last season partly due to a lack of strong starting pitchers.
Framber Valdez is a pitcher from the Houston Astros.
The predicted deal for Valdez is worth $218 million over seven years, averaging over $31 million per year.
Valdez has pitched at least 175 innings in each of the last four seasons.
He has made at least 30 starts in three out of the last four years with Houston.
The Mets are also interested in retaining players Edwin Diaz and Pete Alonso.
David Stearns is the executive tasked with rebuilding the Mets' pitching rotation.
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England's cricket team struggled with fielding errors during a day-night Ashes Test match against Australia at the Gabba. Despite England's preparation, Australia ended day two with a lead of 44 runs. England's poor performance included several dropped catches, and their past inexperience with pink-ball Test matches was noted.
Key Facts
England missed five catching opportunities on the second day of the match.
Australia reached a score of 378 for 6, taking a lead of 44 runs.
Four dropped chances by England occurred during the night session.
England has played fewer pink-ball Test matches compared to Australia.
Joe Root, England's captain, stated the team worked hard in preparation.
Former England captain Michael Vaughan suggested more match practice was needed.
England last won at the Gabba in 1986.
Specific missed catching moments included drops by players Smith, Duckett, and Carse.
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AT&T Stadium, where the Dallas Cowboys play, will be called "Dallas Stadium" during the World Cup because FIFA rules don't allow non-sponsor corporate names. This change frustrated some local fans and residents who expressed their displeasure on social media. The original name and logos will be temporarily covered up for nine World Cup games at the site.
Key Facts
AT&T Stadium is a major NFL venue and will host nine World Cup games this summer.
FIFA rules require non-sponsor corporate names to be removed from stadiums during the World Cup.
As a result, AT&T Stadium will temporarily be called "Dallas Stadium."
All AT&T logos around the stadium will be covered during the World Cup events.
Fans and local residents expressed frustration about the name change on social media.
Arlington's mayor stated he does not see the change as a major issue, emphasizing benefits to Dallas' reputation.
The stadium is located in Arlington, Texas, not Dallas, which some believe adds confusion.
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Oregon's football team recorded a program milestone with five recruits rated as five-stars joining their 2026 class, marking the highest number in the school's history. The team, under head coach Dan Lanning, is now ranked third nationally in recruiting for 2026 and has maintained a strong recruiting performance over the past years.
Key Facts
Oregon signed five five-star recruits for the 2026 class, the most in its history.
Notable recruits include Immanuel Iheanacho, Kendre’ Harrison, Jalen Lott, Jett Washington, and Anthony “Tank” Jones.
The 2026 class ranks third nationally according to On3.
Oregon is on track for a third straight top-five recruiting finish under Coach Dan Lanning.
Dan Lanning, hired in December 2021, has achieved an overall win percentage of .868.
Oregon completed the 2025 regular football season with an 11-1 record.
The College Football Playoff committee has Oregon ranked No. 5 as of December 2.
Oregon will not compete in the Big Ten championship game despite their strong season.
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Curt Casali, a former professional baseball player, joined the San Francisco Giants as an advisor. Casali retired after being released by the Atlanta Braves and briefly worked with the Cincinnati Reds' front office earlier this year.
Key Facts
Curt Casali joined the San Francisco Giants as an advisor.
Casali retired after being released by the Atlanta Braves in spring training.
He previously worked with the Cincinnati Reds' front office this year.
Curt Casali played as a backup catcher to Buster Posey in 2021.
The San Francisco Giants last ended the Los Angeles Dodgers' division title streak in 2021.
Casali was drafted by the Detroit Tigers in the 10th round in 2011.
He played his final 41 major league games with the Giants in 2024.
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A new sports betting promotion is available from bet365, offering bonuses for NBA, NHL, college football, and NFL games. In most states, placing an initial $5 bet can get users a $150 bonus, while in Missouri, a $10 bet guarantees a $365 bonus. These promotions coincide with the beginning of legal online sports betting in Missouri.
Key Facts
Bet365 offers a bonus code "WEEK365" for new customers betting on sports events.
An initial $5 bet typically returns a $150 bonus in many states.
In Missouri, placing a $10 bet provides a $365 bonus as the state starts legal online sports betting.
There is an alternative option called the "$1,000 First Bet Safety Net" for confident bettors.
The Lakers vs. Celtics and Spurs vs. Cavaliers games are key matchups mentioned for betting.
Injury concerns for players like Jayson Tatum and Luka Dončić may impact game outcomes.
To claim the bonuses, users need to create and register an account with bet365.
Newsweek earns a commission if users sign up through links provided in the article.
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LeBron James is not expected to play in the Lakers' game against the Boston Celtics. He is dealing with a sciatica issue and a foot injury. The game is scheduled for Friday at 7 PM ET.
Key Facts
LeBron James is listed as doubtful for the game against the Boston Celtics.
He has two injuries: a sciatica problem and a recent foot injury.
LeBron recently joked about his injuries by saying it's just part of getting older.
The Lakers won their recent game against the Toronto Raptors without him.
LeBron played in the game against the Phoenix Suns where the Lakers lost.
The Lakers' current record is 16 wins and 5 losses.
The Celtics have a 13-9 record.
Other key players, Marcus Smart and Luke Doncic, are also out for the game.
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The Florida Gators hired Jon Sumrall as their new head football coach, replacing Bill Napier. Before this decision, the Gators tried to hire Lincoln Riley, the head coach of the USC Trojans, but he decided to stay with his current team. Danny Wuerffel, a former Florida quarterback, confirmed the school's efforts to contact Riley.
Key Facts
Florida Gators hired Jon Sumrall as their new head football coach.
Sumrall was previously the head coach at Tulane University.
Florida attempted to hire Lincoln Riley, the head coach of USC Trojans.
Danny Wuerffel, involved in Florida's coaching search, confirmed efforts to contact Riley.
Lincoln Riley has been the USC head coach since 2022 with a record of 35 wins and 17 losses.
Riley reaffirmed his commitment to the USC Trojans, stating he is happy there.
Florida also considered hiring Lane Kiffin before selecting Sumrall.
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Caesars Sportsbook is offering a promotion allowing new users to get profit boost tokens by betting $1 on sports events. The promo code NEWSWK20X activates 20 tokens, which can increase potential winnings on different sports markets. These tokens are available for 14 days after the first bet.
Key Facts
Caesars Sportsbook offers a promotion with the code NEWSWK20X.
A $1 bet triggers 20 profit boost tokens.
The tokens can be used on bets up to $25.
The offer is valid for NBA, college football, and NFL games.
The promo code is valid for 14 days after the initial bet.
Similar offers are available in Colorado with a $5 bet to get $150 in bonus bets.
Newsweek may earn a commission if users sign up through links in the article.
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The article explains how sports fans can use the Betr promo code NEWSWEEK to get a bonus for NBA betting. The offer includes a $10 instant bonus and a 50% deposit match up to $200. The promotions are part of a larger campaign by Betr to attract sports bettors with games including NBA, NHL, UFC, and more.
Key Facts
Betr offers a $10 bonus when new users sign up with the promo code NEWSWEEK.
There is a 50% deposit match bonus that can go up to $200.
Users can bet on NBA games including popular matchups like Lakers vs. Celtics and 76ers vs. Bucks.
Other sports available for betting include NHL, UFC, PGA, college basketball, and college football.
Betr has additional promotions like the 2-Pick Mystery Multiplier, which can multiply winnings up to 1,000 times.
High-volume users may be invited to the exclusive Ballers Club for additional perks.
Newsweek might earn a commission if users sign up through links provided in the article.
You need to provide personal details and use an accepted payment method to access the bonuses.
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John Cena will finish his WWE career with a final match on December 13. Throughout his retirement year, he has participated in numerous events and notable storylines, including winning his 17th World Championship. Cena embraces the unpredictability of his final year and believes its impact will be felt even after he retires.
Key Facts
John Cena's final WWE match is set for December 13.
His retirement tour included 36 events and a significant 17th World Championship victory.
Cena also experienced his first Intercontinental Championship win during this time.
He made a surprising move by turning into a villain character, known as a "heel turn."
Cena emphasized the long-term storytelling of his final year, expecting fans to reflect on it after he's gone.
His final match location in Washington, D.C., stirred some fan disappointment since it's not in his hometown, Boston.
Cena expressed no regrets about how his retirement year unfolded, despite changes and challenges.
His last opponent will be determined through a match between GUNTHER and LA Knight.
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DraftKings is offering a special promotion for new users in Missouri who sign up using a promo code. By placing a $5 bet on any game, these users can receive $300 in bonus bets. This offer is specific to Missouri, where legal sports betting just became available.
Key Facts
DraftKings offers a $300 bonus for new Missouri users who make a $5 bet.
The offer is available for NBA, college football, and NFL games.
Users in other states get a different offer, requiring a winning $5 bet to earn $150.
Legal sports betting started in Missouri recently.
Promo includes boosts for selected NBA, college football, and NFL games.
The offer is available until January 4, 2026.
Users must be 21 or older and in Missouri to qualify.
The $300 bonus cannot be withdrawn and must be used within 7 days.
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The Green Bay Packers are set to play against the Chicago Bears, and their wide receiver, Jayden Reed, might return from an injury. Coach Matt LaFleur gave an unclear update about Reed's readiness to play. The game is a crucial match for both teams aiming for the NFC North division title.
Key Facts
The Packers hold an 8-3-1 record, while the Bears are currently 9-3.
A win for the Packers against the Bears could lead them to take the division lead.
Jayden Reed, a key player for the Packers, is recovering from a collarbone injury.
Reed was injured in Week 2 and may return for the game against the Bears.
Coach Matt LaFleur's update on Reed was "I hope so" regarding his participation.
Reed had notable performances last season, with 55 catches for 857 yards and six touchdowns.
The game is scheduled for Sunday at 4:25 p.m. ET.
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Penn State is in the final stages of hiring Matt Campbell, Iowa State's current head coach, to lead its football program. The search for a new coach began over 50 days ago after the firing of former head coach James Franklin, who lost three consecutive games.
Key Facts
Penn State University is finalizing a deal with Matt Campbell for the head coach position.
Matt Campbell is currently the head coach at Iowa State.
Penn State's search for a new coach has lasted more than 50 days.
The previous head coach, James Franklin, was fired after losing three games in a row.
The losing streak included games against Oregon, UCLA, and Northwestern.
Penn State has been one of the last major programs to hire a new coach this season.
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Australia ended the second day of the second Ashes Test in a strong position with a score of 378-6 against England. England managed to take three late wickets but missed five catching chances that could have helped their position in the match.
Key Facts
The second Ashes Test is being played in Brisbane.
Australia finished the day with a score of 378-6.
England took three wickets late in the day.
England dropped five catches during the match.
Australia has a 44-run lead after the first innings.
The series score could move to 2-0 in favor of Australia if they win this match.
The Test match is part of the Ashes series, a cricket competition between England and Australia.
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Alabama's football team may play without one of its key running backs, Jam Miller, in the upcoming SEC Championship Game against Georgia due to an injury. Alabama needs to win for a clear chance at the College Football Playoff, but if they lose, Georgia winning by a big margin could affect their playoff hopes. Alabama will rely on other players to fill Miller's role during the game.
Key Facts
Alabama will compete against Georgia in the SEC Championship Game.
Winning the game would secure Alabama a spot in the College Football Playoff.
Jam Miller, an important Alabama running back, is likely out due to a leg injury.
If Georgia wins by several scores, teams like Notre Dame or Miami could surpass Alabama in playoff rankings.
Alabama plans to use third-string running back Daniel Hill, as another player, Kevin Riley, is injured.
Daniel Hill has run for 222 yards and scored two touchdowns this season.
Alabama's running game has faced criticism from the playoff selection committee.
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The Rule 5 Draft in Major League Baseball is coming up, and the New York Yankees may lose a player from their minor league team. Pitcher Harrison Cohen is seen as a strong candidate to be picked by another team due to his strong performance.
Key Facts
The Rule 5 Draft allows MLB teams to select certain minor league players from other teams.
The Yankees protected three players from being selected: Elmer Rodríguez, Chase Hampton, and Spencer Jones.
Harrison Cohen, a pitcher from the Yankees' Triple-A team, could be selected by another team.
Cohen has had two seasons with an earned run average (ERA) below 2.00, showing solid pitching performance.
Cohen uses a mix of different pitches, including a cutter, changeup, and four-seam fastball.
If selected, Cohen would need to stay on the new team's main roster for the entire season, or he could be sent back to the Yankees.
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Florida Gators hired Jon Sumrall to be the head coach of their football program. The team previously attempted to hire Lane Kiffin, who chose to work at LSU instead. Former Florida quarterback Danny Wuerffel expressed satisfaction with Sumrall's hiring and said missing Kiffin might have been beneficial.
Key Facts
Jon Sumrall, former Tulane head coach, was hired by the Florida Gators.
The Gators wanted Lane Kiffin as their head coach but he went to LSU.
Danny Wuerffel, former Florida quarterback, helped in the coaching search.
Wuerffel thinks the Gators might have benefited from not hiring Kiffin.
Wuerffel says there was a lot of misinformation about the coaching decisions.
Sumrall will coach Tulane in an upcoming championship game before joining Florida.
Sumrall is preparing his coaching staff for his first season with the Gators in 2026.
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President Donald Trump received a new peace prize from FIFA, soccer's main governing body. The award ceremony took place during the final draw for the 2026 World Cup.
Key Facts
President Donald Trump received a new peace prize from FIFA.
FIFA is the global organization that runs soccer activities worldwide.
The award ceremony was part of the 2026 World Cup draw event.
The event took place in Washington, D.C.
The article mentions this is an ongoing story and more details will be added later.
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