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Bryce James Is Rebranding! Transfers High Schools To Reach Higher In The Shadow Of Bronny

Bryce James, son of Los Angeles Lakers LeBron James, is transferring to Notre Dame High School in Sherman Oaks, California, per multiple sources.

After his first practice with the Knights on Wednesday, the 16-year-old shooting guard stated as much via social media. James spent his first and second years playing basketball at powerhouse Sierra Canyon with his older brother, Bronny James.

Bronny, who committed to USC in April, recently suffered a cardiac arrest in late July during a USC basketball practice. He is recovering from cardiac arrest and was recently seen on social media playing the piano and going out to eat with his family.

Bryce’s Way

It isn’t exactly clear what caused this traumatic event to happen to Bronny, but he is taking some time to fully recover before hitting the basketball court again.

On the other hand, Bryce nearly transferred to Campbell Hall to play basketball there before he unenrolled from Campbell Hall High School by Wednesday, as the transition there didn’t work out, according to Sports Illustrated.

Bryce practiced with Notre Dame that same day, according to the Los Angeles Times.

Bryce isn’t alone at Notre Dame High School either. Mercy Miller, son of rapper Master P, is also already at Notre Dame. According to ESPN, Miller is a 4-star prospect who committed to Houston’s 2024 recruiting class two years ago.

Bryce has been making a name for himself in the high school basketball world, as he hit a massive growth spurt, formerly listed as 5 feet 6 back in 2021 when he was 14 years old. At 16, he is now 6 feet 6, outgrowing his brother Bronny, who is only 6 feet 3 as an 18-year-old.

That was just his first shocking development before he added some athleticism to his game, beginning to dunk the ball consistently, showing that his hops are for real.

Next Up: Bryce James

On top of his physical development, his actual play on the court has turned some heads, as he was able to show that he could go toe-to-toe with some of the top players in his class and high school, matching up with players such as Cameron Boozer, Mercy Miller, Kiyan Anthony, and Cooper Flagg.

Bryce James currently sits as the No. 14 ranked shooting guard in the nation and the 102nd ranked player overall in the country, according to 247sports. But, much like his older brother, Bryce will be looking to make tall strides in his last two years to jump through the rankings and garner more interest from top schools. He’s hoping winning and improving at Notre Dame can do the trick.

Are The Washington Commanders A Sleeping Giant? | NFL Insiders Believe So In Wake Of Eric Bieniemy Tough Love Fiasco

In many ways this week in Ashburn, Virginia, unfortunately resembled the 24 years that former owner Daniel Snyder ran a once-proud organization into the ground. During his tenure there were always leaks of drama-filled stories in and around the team’s practice facility which is about 35-40 minutes outside of the nation’s capital.

That was no different this week, as head coach Ron Rivera says he “put his foot in his mouth,” when he revealed that players had come to him complaining about new offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy hard-nosed, direct and at times abrasive coaching style. Since then Rivera has done his best to do damage control, after pretty much undermining his new offensive playcaller. 

And, while most saw it as a sign that the team will likely struggle again in 2023, two NFL insiders/analysts believe they could use that hiccup as a rallying cry and surprise some folks this season. 

NFL Analysts Say Commanders Are Flying Under Radar

During a recent episode of ESPNs “First Take,” and in wake of the Rivera mistake, ESPN NFL analyst Louis Riddick spoke pretty highly of what he witnessed out at Commanders camp concerning the offense. He also spoke directly to Bieniemy, and this is what he got. 

“He thinks that the offense has really had some of its best string of practices that they have had all during training camp,” Riddick said. “I think Washington is one of those sleeping type of teams that no one is going to give a whole lot of of chance in terms of being a contender in the NFC East. They’re one of those teams that could really explode.”

Washington Commanders Did Eric Bienemy No Favors | Head Coach Or Nothing

Riddick isn’t the only one who sees the Commanders in that light. His fellow ESPN colleague Sam Acho seemed to piggyback those comments. 

“To your point that, yes, the culture needs to change. To your point, there could be, maybe won’t be fractures and fissure. And to your point, this Washington team could be a sleeping giant,”

Strong words from the both of them, but it’s not as far fetched as it may sound. It’s not as if the Commanders roster is devoid of talent, they just need to find a viable signal caller under center. 

Is Sam Howell That Guy? 

For a franchise that arguably hasn’t had a franchise quarterback since Joe Theismann, is Sam Howell the answer? 

Robert Griffin III and Kirk Cousins don’t count. One was always injured after year one, and the other never seemed to gain the trust of upper management. 

As for Howell he did look the part in last year’s season finale win over the archrival Dallas Cowboys. And he looked really comfortable running Bieniemy’s version of the West Coast offense in Friday’s preseason opener. 

“Not Really…I Played In Baltimore” | Cardinals WR Hollywood Brown Takes Subtle Jab At Former Team And Its Offense 

It’s no secret that Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Marquise “Hollywood” Brown didn’t really enjoy his time playing in Baltimore. Outside of playing with close friend and star quarterback Lamar Jackson, Brown has never had anything positive to say about his tenure with the team. 

And with good reason, as Brown was drafted to be a deep threat for an offense that used three tight ends and ran the football more than any team in the NFL. Brown, who spent the first three seasons of his career in Baltimore, asked for a trade after the 2021 season, and the Ravens obliged trading him to the Cardinals and rejoining his college quarterback Kyler Murray. 

The two had some moments in 2022, but with both getting injured and missing good chunks of the season, they never really hit their stride. And with Murray slated to miss a good portion of the 2023 season, Brown was recently asked how he felt about the offense minus Murray.

Brown Takes Subtle Jab At Ravens 

Brown once again didn’t miss an opportunity to take a shot at his former team and how he was used in their scheme. With Murray on the mend, the scheme will be similar to the run-heavy scheme he played in during his “Charm City” days.

“Not really, I mean, I played in Baltimore,” Brown said when asked if he’ll find it difficult to adjust to playing in a run-based offense. “I played in Baltimore, so I’ve been in it. When I met these guys and they told me their philosophies and their thought process, I was like, OK, I can work with it, and this is something that we need as a team, and we can thrive in.”

Veteran Colt McCoy Will Be Under Center

With Murray out, first-year head coach Jonathan Gannon is rolling with longtime NFL journeyman Colt McCoy at QB. While McCoy won’t provide the wow and spectacular plays that Murray is capable of on any play, he’ll be solid because he understands what the offensive coordinator wants to do and he’ll protect the football. 

“Get Some One-On-One Matchups And Spread The Field Out” | Marquise “Hollywood” Brown Takes Shot At Ravens Offense After Trade To Cardinals

For Brown, no matter who’s under center, he still believes he’s in a better situation in Arizona than he was in Baltimore. He also likens McCoy to having another coach on the field. 

“Colt is like another coach,” Brown said. “He’s great to have out there.”

Issam Asinga Is The Youngest Sprinter To Break 10 Secs In 100 Meters But He May Be Youngest To Get Suspended For PEDs

There is an adage: take the good with the bad, and although that phrase is a bittersweet reminder of the irony of life, for one sprinter, the statement was never more accurate. Issam Asinga, the young Surinamese track star who became the youngest man to break 10 seconds in the 100 meters last month, is suspended in a doping case.

He might be the youngest caught using a performance-enhancing drug.

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The provisional suspension for the 18-year-old was for the use or presence of GW1516. This experimental drug can modify the body’s metabolism and has been considered too dangerous for human use. Asinga is adamant about his innocence and drafted a lengthy explanation post on his social media.

Other Side Of The Story

“As you may have read, the AIU has charged me and provisionally suspended me for an alleged anti-doping violation related to a urine sample I provided out of competition at my home on July 18th,” Asinga posted. “During the high school season, I agreed to be a part of the registered testing pool, as I recognized I was having a historic season. I have been tested before, and after this alleged offense.

“On June 10th I ran 10.002 wind legal, and a wind aided 9.82. The AIU tested me at home the next day, and that result was negative. I then competed at a World Athletics Gold Level meet 2 weeks later in New York (June 24). The sample in question is July 18th. I was tested a week later at the South American Championships (July 28th) where I set a World U20 Record. With the AIU’s assistance, the Rio laoratory in Brazil expedited an analysis of my sample which also came back negative last night (August 10th).”

Asinga then explains the amount of the banned substance found in his sample, inferring that the alleged violation is the equivalent of grains of salt.

“To clarify, the alleged amount found in my urine sample, is 0.2 nanograms per ml (0.0000002mg/ml). For context, a single grain of salt is approximately 58,500 nanograms (0.0585mg). All my supplements are NSF and BSCG batch tested for WADA banned substances.

“I respect the AIU’s processes, and I will continue to comply as we work to find out what has happened. My team and I are aware that the next generation of track stars is looking up to me, and I would never intentionally let them down. The AIU has agreed to test my B sample, before the World Championships next week. Until then, I will remian steadfast and wait.”

Asinga turned 18 last December and is tied for fourth-fastest in the world this year.

Where’s The Outrage? Johnny Manziel Admits To Never Watching Film During NFL Career But Avoids The Shade Given Black QBs Who Do

Johnny Manziel has a particular type of privilege.

In the Netflix documentary “Untold: Johnny Football,” Manziel admits things that would have Black QBs crucified, even in retirement. From being crowned the quarterback king of his Tivy high school team and then morphed into “Johnny Football” at Texas A&M from 2011-2013.

Black Twitter Makes Cardinals Nix Kyler Murray Study Clause And Now Patrick Mahomes Speaks On Black QB Scrutiny | The Revolution Is Definitely Televised

The Heisman Trophy winner, who became the first redshirt freshman to get the award, made it to the NFL in the first round but needed to handle the transition better. The 22nd-second pick of the 2014 draft admitted on the Netflix documentary that during his brief time on the Cleveland Browns roster he watched the film “zero” times, like, never.

https://twitter.com/anotherFTBacct/status/1689045740180697088?s=20

Agent ZERO

“Their GM’s calling me going, ‘He doesn’t watch tape,'” his then agent Erik Burkhardt said on the Netflix documentary “Untold.” “I’m like, well, he’s gotta watch some tape. He’s like, ‘EB, his iPad hours is 0.00.'”

Manziel played 14 NFL games and started in eight, eventually going 2-6 in those starts. His winning two NFL games without effort indicated his entire football journey. The Tyler, Texas-born and raised QB breathed football by proxy as the state virtually mandates its residents to worship the pigskin.

Manziel was a naturally gifted gunslinger who modeled his style after the run-and-shoot game of an early Vince Young, but unlike Young, Manziel treated the game like a giant tailgate where the pickup truck fortified bar never closed. Amid the scandals that followed him from college to the pros, Manziel’s perception as a legendary novelty act whose money sign celebration became part of pop culture is disrespectful to the Black QBs who study but were “questioned” during the lead-up to the 2022-2023 season.

Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray’s original 2022 contract extension from the Cardinals for roughly $160 million guaranteed contained an “independent study addendum” that required Murray to review four hours of game film per week (outside of regular team preparation). It also stated that while watching film, Murray could not be engaged in other activities such as watching television or playing video games.

Ironically, when Murray signed the offer, Manziel’s former collegiate QB coach, Kliff Kingsbury, was the head coach of the Arizona Cardinals. Kingsbury said in the documentary he knew Manziel didn’t put in the effort while at Texas A&M.

“Of course, we all watch film,” Murray said during a news conference after word of the study clause was leaked. “That doesn’t need to be questioned. But I refuse to let my work ethic, my preparation be questioned… it’s disrespectful and it’s almost a joke.”

Eventually, the team eliminated the mandatory “independent study” clause in Murray’s extension.

“How Y’all Consume The Game Is Trash” — KD

Manziel played off script like Black quarterback Patrick Mahomes has been accused of, and the stigmatization of the Black quarterback not being intelligent enough to lead a team has always been an underlying narrative in the NFL. Manziel played eight games. Mahomes has two Super Bowl rings and two Super Bowl MVP wins.

Yet Mahomes was at the center of speculation when an opposing defensive coach said to The Athletic, “take his first read away and what does he do? He runs, he scrambles and he plays streetball.”

The defensive coach was a voter in a poll by The Athletic, which asked 50 people in the NFL to place NFL quarterbacks into tiers, and the person was the lone dissenter not placing Mahomes in the top tier.

Where is the speculation about the white quarterbacks winging it like Manziel, who got exposed in the pros? Instead, radio silence from the unnamed insider critics says a lot about how many consume the game.

In the words of Kevin Durant from his Twitter Spaces rant to his ever-critical fans, “I just think how ya’ll consume the game is trash.”

Amen.

Seven More Football Players From Iowa State And Iowa Charged In Sports Betting Scandal

Seven players and one staff member of the 2022 Iowa and Iowa State football programs were charged with aggravated misdemeanors in connection to a gambling investigation, and all but two are accused of betting on their own team. The four Iowa State players make five from the Cyclones, including QB Hunter Dekkers.

Gambling Probe Exposed Iowa Athletes

The other Iowa State athletes are starters: running back Jirehl Brock, tight end DeShawn Hanika, offensive lineman Jake Remsburg and defensive lineman Isaiah Lee.

“Since becoming aware of potential NCAA eligibility issues related to sports wagering by several of our student-athletes back in May, Iowa State University has been actively working to address these issues with the involved student-athletes, and that process remains ongoing,” Iowa State said in a statement. “We will continue to support our student-athletes as our compliance staff works with the NCAA to sort out questions surrounding their future eligibility for athletics competition.”

The Iowa players are: current wide receiver Jack Johnson, former receiver Arland Bruce IV, former safety Harry “Reggie” Bracy II and graduate assistant Owen O’Brien. 

Iowa head coach Kirk Ferentz spoke with reporters for the first time during training camp on Friday.

Punishment Pending

Bruce was accused of making 132 online sports wagers totaling more than $4,342 under the name “Vincent Bruce” to create a fraudulent DraftKings account while he was underage. 

Bracy also used an account under the name “Vincent Bruce” and is accused of placing eight wagers on Iowa events and 66 overall totaling $715 while underage. 

Johnson allegedly used his mother’s name to obtain a DraftKings account before turning 21 in June. He is accused of making 380 wagers for more than $1,800 while underage.

O’Brien was student assistant then a graduate assistant and allegedly used his mother’s information while underage to create a FanDuel account. He is accused of making more than 350 bets for $3,047 while underage, including 11 wagers on Iowa sporting.

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The charges carry a maximum sentence of up to two years in prison and a fine ranging from $855 to $8,540. NCAA rules state any athlete wagering on their own university could receive a lifetime ban. 

Online sports gambling has been legalized in 37 states plus Washington D.C., but it’s not legal in Iowa.

Undefeated Boxing Legend Floyd Mayweather Jr. Provides Food, Housing, And Shelter To People Impacted By Maui Wildfires

Floyd Mayweather Jr. has stepped up to help the people impacted by the wildfires on the Hawaiian island of Maui. The undefeated (50-0) 15-time champion paid for over 100 people to fly to safety from Maui to Oahu and paid for hotels, food from local restaurants and clothing for several weeks while they deal with the loss of family members, homes, and possessions.

“Money Mayweather” Doesn’t Only Spend On Himself

Mayweather’s nickname is “Money,” and while he is known to splurge extravagantly, he also gives to those who are less fortunate. The aid provided to the people impacted by the Maui wildfires is another example.

At last count the death toll is at 55 with countless others injured. Hawaii Gov. Josh Green said the fire could be the worst national disaster in the state’s history.

“We will continue to see loss of life,” the first-term Democrat said at a news conference, adding that rebuilding could take years and will be costly. “It will take time to know the full extent, but it will be in the billions of dollars, without a doubt.”

The entire west side of Maui is without power and water. President Joe Biden has declared a “major disaster” in Hawaii and ordered federal aid to areas affected by wildfires. The town of Lahaina on Maui, a popular vacation destination for honeymooners, has been completely destroyed.

Cleveland Indians Donate To Puerto Rico’s Hurricane Maria Relief

The state of Hawaii is made up of over 137 islands. The eight major islands include: Maui where the wildfire is being contained, Oahu, where Mayweather Jr. paid for the displaced people to go and where the state capital of Honolulu is located, The Big Island, Kauai, Lanai, Molokai, Nihau, and Kahoolawe.

Other Athletes Stepping Up

Mayweather isn’t the only professional athlete offering to help people on Maui. Golfer Colin Morikawa has pledged $1,000 per birdie he makes in the FedEx Cup playoffs to aid recovery on Maui.

“Maui has always held a special place in my heart – my grandfather owned a restaurant called The Morikawa Restaurant, on Front Street in Lahaina,” Morikawa said in an Instagram post announcing his plans. “The people of Hawaii are going to need all the support that we can give them. During the course of the playoffs, I’m going to donate $1000 for every birdie that I make.”

The playoffs began Thursday at the the FedEx St. Jude Championship. Morikawa made six birdies in round one, so he’s off to a good start.

Jerry Stackhouse Thinks The NIL Portal Is A “Sh*t Show” Right Now With “Rogue Agents” Giving Misinformation

Jerry Stackhouse has a unique vantage point of the name, image, and likeness (NIL) era. The former two-time NBA All-Star and current head coach of Vanderbilt men’s basketball thinks the NIL era is a “sh*t show” with “rogue agents” spreading misinformation and some pushing Congress to step in. Still, Stackhouse feels politicians should avoid getting involved with the process.

“Anybody that tells you that they have the blueprint of what NIL should look like, walk away from them because they don’t know,” Stackhouse said on the “No Chill with Gil” podcast. “There’s still so much up in the air about how this thing will settle out. They’re trying to get Congress involved, which I think is not the way to go.

“It should be something similar to the way the NBA operates with its players, where it should be collectively bargained. Where the players got to, at some point, should have some representation. If they never have any representation to speak on their behalf the things will always be lopsided…these kids deserve money.”

Stacks On Stacks

Stackhouse was named the men’s basketball program’s 28th head coach in 2019 and is now entering his fifth season with the team. He guided the Commodores to back-to-back winning seasons and NIT quarterfinals berths in 2022 and 2023, sent four student-athletes to the NBA, and coached two SEC Scholar Athletes of the Year in his first four seasons in Nashville.

Stackhouse made an immediate impact, as Vanderbilt was the only SEC program to improve its NET ranking in three consecutive seasons from 2019-22.

For the 2022-23 season, he earned SEC Co-Coach of the Year, so like many other coaches, he also understands the profound challenges of the NIL era.

“I like that these guys have been able to make money off their name, image, and likeness,” Stackhouse continued.

“Hell, I wish I could go back retroactively and get some of the money made off of me. But we got to find a way right now, it’s like the Wild, Wild West. And these players need to be aware of rogue agents who just want them to test the waters. It’s just a sh*t show right now. But I think ultimately it’ll get settled down.”

“I Had One Of Those Called Percy Harvin” | Former Florida Coach Urban Meyer Likens Colorado’s Travis Hunter To His Do-It-All Star Down In The Swamp

Former college and NFL coach Urban Meyer was recently a special guest of Pro Football Hall of Famer Deion Sanders and the Colorado Buffaloes.

The three-time national championship-winning sideline stalker talked about his visit to Boulder during an appearance on the Colin Cowherd show on Tuesday. 

To the surprise of many, Meyer is really high on Sanders and what will be their first year together, with 70 new players.

One of those players is 2022 No. 1-ranked recruit Travis Hunter, who’s slated to give Coach Prime and the CU Buffs some work on offense and defense in 2023. Meyer, who’s coached his fair share of elite talents, likened Hunter to one of his stars from his Gainesville days down in “The Swamp.”

Meyer Compares Hunter To Percy Harvin

In order to win three national championships in your career, you need great players, and Meyer had plenty of those at Florida. But none were more dynamic than Percy Harvin, who did everything from play running back and receiver to returning punts and kickoffs.

And although Harvin didn’t play defense like the aforementioned Hunter, Meyer sees plenty of similarities.

“Travis Hunter. … I looked at Prime and said, I had one of those, I called him Percy Harvin. I just pushed him to the side, he didn’t need to practice.”

Harvin touched paydirt 32 times for the Gators while helping them capture national championships in 2006 and 2008. He also helped the Seattle Seahawks win their only Super Bowl in franchise history in 2013.

Meyer Says Buffs Look Better Than Folks Think

All offseason we’ve heard the rumblings of the Buffs will struggle because of all the turnover, but Meyer says they look much better than he anticipated. Meyer raved about the job Coach Prime and his assistants are doing. 

“That was not what I was expecting. … I saw a very good. I saw … talented players, his son is an excellent quarterback,” Meyer said.

Strong words from Meyer, who despite his short NFL stint and struggles there, is someone that’s built championship-winning programs at Florida and Ohio State. 

How Two Epic NBA Finals Battles And One Coughing Taunt Forever Linked Dwyane Wade And Dirk Nowitzki’s Hall of Fame Paths

This weekend’s 2023 Naismith Hall of Fame inductions include five-time NBA Championship-winning coach Gregg Popovich, two-time championship-winning Lakers forward Pau Gasol and four-time NBA champ Spurs point guard Tony Parker. 

And of course, the real meat and potatoes of the class, legend Dirk Nowitzki of the Dallas Mavericks and three-time title winning guard Dwyane Wade of the Miami Heat.

And while the two aren’t friends, they respect each other’s careers and accomplishments enough to be cordial. 

Dirk Says They’re Not Friends But Have Mutual Respect 

Speaking with “The Saturday Stein Line” with Marc Stein, Nowitzki gave some insight as to where he and Wade’s relationship stands. 

“I wouldn’t say friends. There’s a mutual sense of respect for each other’s career. Obviously we’re cordial, there’s no bad blood anymore. We’ve both moved on.” 

“Are we friends? No, we don’t text each other, but there’s a lot of respect there,” Nowitzki said. 

 

Two Epic Finals Battles Have A Lot To Do With Lukewarm Feelings

During their illustrious Hall of Fame careers, Wade and Dirk faced off twice in the NBA Finals.

In 2006, Wade had his coming-out party as he and Shaq led the Miami Heat back from an 0-2 deficit to win four games in a row and the Heat’s first championship. The win solidified Wade as a bona fide star in the league. 

Dirk and his Mavericks returned the favor in 2011 when he upset the Wade, LeBron James and Chris Bosh “Heatles” in six games, but it’s what happened off the court that played a major role in their relationship dynamic. 

‘I Felt It Was A Little Disrespectful’ | Dirk Nowitzki Opens Up About Dwyane Wade and LeBron James Mocking His ‘Flu Game’ During 2011 NBA Finals

During Game 4 of the 2011 Finals, Nowitzki could be seen coughing and looking ill. Following the Mavs’ Game 4 win to tie the series, Wade and Bron could be seen via camera mocking Dirk’s cough. That didn’t sit well with Dirk, and earlier this year he let Wade and his teammates know about it in an interview. With the hatchet seemingly buried following Wade’s apology, the two will now enter the Hall of Fame together on Saturday.

“I Look At MJ And Kobe” | Eagles QB Jalen Hurts Says He Uses His AirNess And Black Mamba For Inspiration And Motivation 

Philadelphia Eagles star quarterback Jalen Hurts recently turned 25, and if you’ve ever watched him play, heard him talk or listened to how his coaches and teammates rave about his maturity, then you’ll see why he’s considered wise beyond his years.

While Hurts’ teammates have spent the entire offseason making excuses following the Eagles’ crushing 38-35 Super Bowl loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, Hurts hasn’t.

In fact, the 2022 NFL MVP finalist has taken it upon himself to get better and to use the loss as motivation heading into the 2023 season.

Jalen Hurts Wants To Become The QB That Changes The Philadelphia Eagles’ Postseason

He even has himself leaving the field as a lock screen on his cellphone. It’s all part of what Hurts so special and why the Eagles saw fit to sign him to the five-year, $255 million extension with $179 million guaranteed. 

Jalen Hurts’ Motivation Is In His Back Pocket As QB Carries Deflating Pic In His Phone

Hurts Hopes To Channel Inner MJ And Kobe In 2023

As the Eagles continue preparations for the 2023 season, Hurts is also making his media rounds.

Earlier this week, the 2019 Heisman runner-up told Peter King of Football Morning In America this:

“Every time you go into an offseason, for me at least, I look at guys like MJ and Kobe and how they diagnose their game,” Hurts said. “Obviously two different sports, but trying to get better at my strengths and then turning my weaknesses into my strengths. I’ve always been a unique player. But embracing the rarity of being a true triple-threat. Throwing, running and mind. For a long time people said guys like me couldn’t think or couldn’t process. Trying to put that to sleep.”

Hurts is correct. For years the stigma was that melanated, mobile QBs couldn’t process information well enough to beat a defense without using their athleticism to bail them out. Players like Hurts, Patrick Mahomes, Lamar Jackson and others are beginning to show that just isn’t true. It never was.  

Hurts Made History In 2022

Hurts was remarkable in 2022 and while he didn’t win MVP or Super Bowl MVP, losing both to Mahomes isn’t too shabby. Patterning his approach after two of the greatest competitors in modern sports history isn’t a bad way to approach his career.

But not even Mahomes did what Hurts did by becoming the first player in NFL history to have a career total of 40 passing touchdowns and 30 rushing touchdowns prior to turning 25 years old. To us that’s great, but for Hurts that’s not why he plays the game.

WR Ja’Marr Chase’s Latest Comments Adds Another Layer To Rivalry With Chiefs

Having matched up four times over the past two seasons, including squaring off in the AFC Championship Game the last two seasons, it’s safe to say that the Cincinnati Bengals and Kansas City Chiefs don’t like one another. The entire offseason players from each team have been taking indirect shots at one another. But the last few exchanges have been a little more direct. 

In June, Chase called his quarterback Joe Burrow, not Patrick Mahomes, the best in the game. And that’s fine, but not to insinuate that you didn’t know who Mahomes was with a “Pat who,” response when asked who the game’s best signal-caller. Chiefs All-Pro tight end Travis Kelce quickly came to Mahomes’ defense calling Chase’s comments “a little disrespectful.” 

Mahomes even chimed from the Chiefs Super Bowl ring ceremony, with a tweet showing his two rings, while saying “that’s who.”

Chase Adds New Layer To Rivalry

On Monday, Chase the 2021 Offensive Rookie of the Year and 2021 second-team All Pro, appeared on the “Up and Adams Show” with Kay Adams and had this to say when asked about the rivalry and war of words.

“I’m excited for it. I can’t wait for it,” Chase said. “I don’t want to say too much, because we already had Mr. Kelce come back with something, so I must be under someone’s skin.

Chase then said the Bengals won’t stop talking because that’s what they do.

“Oh, we’re going to talk; we’re just not going to do it in the media,” Chase said. “There’s not a reason for that.”

Bengals Hold 3-1 Lead In Rivalry

While the Bengals hold the edge in the battle, having won three of the four matchups during the Burrow/Mahomes era, K.C. won the last matchup in January and then went out and won their second Super Bowl in four seasons. 

The Bengals beat the Chiefs three times in a calendar year before KC broke through in January. Cincy won the previous AFC championship matchup in 2022, but lost the Super Bowl to the Rams. 

The two teams meet in Week 17 of this season, and that will likely have some major playoff implications. 

“As Good As We Were, We Would Be Even Greater Playing Today” | Hater Rick Barry Says If He Had A Whirlpool And Masseuse, He Would Dominate Today’s NBA

Another day, another former NBA player whining about what he didn’t have in his era and how if he had what players today have, he’d be even better. Today’s minister of propaganda is Hall of Famer Rick Barry.

“If you really understood the game and you really knew what the difference was between when we played and the guys playing here, we had nothing to help us,” Barry said.

Rick Barry Was Elite In His Era

Barry’s accomplishments during his era are legendary and that’s why he is revered as an all-time great.

But facts and evolution are what they are. Athletes are stronger and faster now than they were at Barry’s peak in 1967.

Look at the progression of the world record in the 100 and 200 meters since 1967. The records set in 1967 would barely qualify you for the finals at the 2022 world championships and the record times then wouldn’t podium in 2022.

That was for the best of the best in that era. What about the everyone else who qualified in 1967 versus 2022?

Bringing it back to Barry, yes players today fly charter and have all the benefits and advances made in sports science. But shooting is shooting. Even without all the modern advances in travel and physical care, the mechanics of a jump shot remain consistent.

Barry made 45 percent of his shots from the field during his playing career. He made 46 percent of his two-point FGs, all against less athletic defenders. Better travel, a whirlpool and a masseuse wouldn’t all of a sudden make him a 50-40-90 guy against today’s players.

Shaquille O’Neal Laments On Shooting Habits Of The Modern NBA Big Man: “Most Of These Big Guys They Have Now Are Powder Puffs.”

Better In The Modern NBA?

The idea of “better” remains tenuous at best. Better than who?

Giannis Antetokounmpo, Jimmy Butler, Kevin Durant, Paul George, LeBron James, Kawhi Leonard, Jayson Tatum, and Lauri Markkanen are by some measures the best 10 forwards in the game right now.

In Barry’s era he was routinely making All-NBA teams, which means he was top-4 in the league at his position. They only had two All-NBA teams back then. Which seven players today is he actually better than?

He has a better résumé than some of the aforementioned. But pure basketball skills, which seven?

This isn’t about knocking Barry or denigrating his era. But older players like him who refuse to give the new generation their props is part of the problem the league has. As the elder statesmen and ambassadors they should be championing the game, calling out issues, but being accurate in their critiques.

“I didn’t have an agility coach. I didn’t have a dietician. I didn’t travel on charter planes; we didn’t have whirlpools. We didn’t have saunas, and we didn’t have masseuses. If I played today, I would be faster — and I was pretty fast then,” he continued. “I’ve been faster, quicker and more endurance. I would be a better basketball player because I had none of those things available. It is crazy how much better the guys I played with, Oscar Robertson, Jerry West. As good as we were, we would be even greater playing today.”

All of these comments sound like jealousy.

Streetball Legend Pee Wee Kirkland Honored By City Of Norfolk For His Community Efforts | The Former Drug Kingpin Has Become A Hero

Hoops legend turned motivational speaker and youth mentor Richard “Pee Wee” Kirkland was honored by the city of Norfolk, in Virginia where he played college ball for Norfolk State, for his positive impact on the lives of young people.

“It means everything. This is why I do it,” Kirkland said. “Young people all over the country respect the name Pee Wee Kirkland. … They know when I first said to myself that I committed my life to impacting their lives, I said I was going to do it until I dropped. And I meant that. I haven’t dropped, so I’m still doing it.”

A Leader In The Community

The 78-year-old Kirkland was born in New York City in 1945 and started playing street ball at the age of 9, and by the time he entered high school already had a reputation as an elite scorer. He was named All-City while at Charles Evans Hughes High School.

He had a Division I offer to play at UCLA under fame coach John Wooden and alongside the nation’s best player Lew Alcindor, now known as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.

Imagine Kirkland and Alcindor as a duo?

Kirkland ended up at Norfolk State where he averaged 41 points per game and was named team MVP in 1968. He played with future NBA All-Star Bobby Dandridge.

Black College Sports Media Greats Applaud Bobby Dandridge Hall of Fame Nod

Legend In Two Games

He was drafted by the Chicago Bulls in 1969 but turned down the NBA because he was making more money as a drug kingpin back in Harlem.

As is often the case when leading a life of crime, it caught up with Kirkland and he spent 11 years in federal prison. It was during this time that he made a decision to turn his life around and serve as an example to young people.

In 1983, he began a program to help change the lives of NYC youth. He later founded Pee Wee Kirkland’s School of Skillz, a motivational community program that through basketball, works to change the culture of young people, that is sponsored by Nike.

Kirkland served as a high school hoops coach and won championships at The Dwight School in New York City and earned a masters degree in human services from Lincoln University.

Kirkland’s transformation has impressed many and impacted the lives of countless youth across the country.

“I’ll remember him as a good basketball player, but also a good person who is giving back to his community, particularly in Harlem,” Dandridge said. “And for his willingness to try to turn some people around, especially young people. That’s how I’’m going to remember him.”

“Really Pleased With How 10 Is Playing” | Cowboys Owner Jerry Jones Praises Backup Cooper Rush As Dak Prescott Struggles In Training Camp

The Dallas Cowboys believe they have a real shot at making a deep run in the NFC playoffs this season, but in order to do so they’ll need their $40 million per season quarterback Dak Prescott to be better than he was last season.

Early training camp reports say he’s got some work to do.

Per reports, Prescott has had quite a few three-interception days, and his latest seemed to draw the ire of team owner Jerry Jones.

While Jones didn’t take an outright shot at his star signal-caller, his praise of backup Cooper Rush should be all the impetus Prescott needs to pick it up a bit in camp.

Did Jones Send Indirect Message To Dak?

Following Tuesday’s practice ,Jones, who’s never been one to sugarcoat his feelings, was praising Rush heavily, which many believe was done to light a fire under a struggling Prescott.

During his post-practice presser Jones said this about Rush: 

“Really pleased with how 10 is playing. Really pleased with how he’s doing…Hes shown in a way that reflects and embellishes how well he played for the team last year.”


Dak Prescott’s Job In Danger?

Jones’ comments came after another turnover-prone day for Prescott with three total interceptions, including two to cornerback Trevon Diggs 

Diggs has had a great camp after signing that five-year, $104 million extension with roughly $42 million guaranteed.

Rush Was Great In Relief Of Dak In 2022

In five seasons as the Cowboys backup Rush has gone 15-4 while playing mistak-free football.

That type of play is what the Cowboys are expecting from Prescott, who had a career-high 15 interceptions in 2022. 

With a Super Bowl-ready defense led by Micah Parsons and talent on the offensive side of the football, Prescott can’t be the reason the team doesn’t make a run.

If he stumbles it’s highly unlikely they bench him in favor of Rush, but as evinced by Jerry’s comments, they have a ton of confidence in their backup if need be. 

“I Like To Work” | New Eagles Linebacker Myles Jack Says He Thought Of Becoming A Plumber Or Electrician Before Team Called Him

Newly-signed Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Myles Jack is excited to continue his NFL career with the Eagles.

The former UCLA Bruins standout was released by the Pittsburgh Steelers in March after just one season with the team. Since then, Jack has been sitting at home awaiting a call from another team. 

But while the 2016 second-round pick by the Jacksonville Jaguars sat at home, he didn’t mope around. He stayed busy and therefore, mentally ready for a return to the field. Even if he doesn’t have to work again in life, having earned over $50 million in NFL salary, the athletic ballhawk of a linebacker still needs to put his body to work in some capacity.  

Jack Says He Would’ve Gone To Trade School If No Team Called 

Having waited nearly five months for a call, Jack was reportedly set to attend trade school, per The Athletic’s Zack Berman. 

That’s right, a former starting linebacker in the NFL considered becoming a plumber or electrician to keep himself busy. 

“I like to work. I couldn’t sit at home,” Jack said  via Berman. “I’ve been blessed to make a lot of money.  I could retire and sit at the house.  … I want to be innovative. If a Zombie apocalypse came, I want to be able to build something.”

Jack also knows this could be his last hurrah in the league, so he wants to make good on it. 

“Time waits for nobody,” Jack said. 

Jack Has Been Steady In NFL Career

Jack spent the first five years of his seven-year career with the Jaguars. There he signed the most lucrative deal of his career in 2019 (four-years, $57 million with $33 million guaranteed).

After two seasons he was released, and at the time he was the last player from the 2017 defense that nearly made the Super Bowl. That defense was nicknamed the “Sacksonville” defense for its 55 quarterback drops that season, only second to the Steelers (56). 

He then spent last season in Pittsburgh after signing a two-year $16 million deal with $6.5 guaranteed and a $6.5 million signing bonus. While, Jack did make $13 million of the $16 million, the team decided to release him in March. 

Jack has career totals of 581 tackles, 6.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, four fumbles recoveries, three interceptions, 17 passes defensed and two paydirt touches. 

He’ll only enhance an already formidable Eagles defense that led the league with 70 sacks last season.

“I Put My Foot In My Mouth” | Washington Commanders HC Ron Rivera Admits He Should Not Have Revealed Players Complained About Eric Bieniemy

On Wednesday, Washington Commanders head coach Ron Rivera admitted that he may have put his “put his foot in his mouth,” on Tuesday when he told reporters that players had come to him concerning new offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy’s intesity.

Eric Bieniemy’s Old School Energy Is Scaring The Heck Out Of His New Generation Players At Commanders Camp | Players Reportedly Run To Head Coach Ron Rivera

Rivera then said he didn’t wane paint a picture where his players looked like crybabies or in other terms “soft.”

But, in the same breath Rivera says he also didn’t want to undermine Bieniemy. 

Rivera says all of this a day after he created an unnecessary firestorm of dissension by revealing that players came to him complaining about Bieniemy’s coaching style.

There was no need for the head coach to make any mention of the situation, as if this franchise hasn’t been known more for drama and off the field distractions than their actual efforts on the gridiron. 

Rivera Attempts To Clean Up Mess He Created

Following his comments on Tuesday, Rivera says he told Bieniemy that he “wasn’t as clear as he needed to be,” when he made the unnecessary revelation. He then proceeded to clean up his mess. 

“I hired Eric, and I loved his overall message to the team the first day — that we have to learn to be comfortable when uncomfortable,” Rivera said Wednesday. “With guys on that side of the ball, they were uncomfortable. There’s been a lot of change, and the entire way of doing things has changed on the offensive side. Change is hard.

“Since those conversations took place with Eric and the players, I’ve seen improvements,” Rivera added. “The last couple practices have probably been the best of training camp. That displays how the team has embraced the message and how he does things and how he wants to get things done.”

Bieniemy is coming from a Kansas City Chiefs team that has played in three of the past four Super Bowls, winning two Lombardi trophies. So for a franchise who hasn’t sniffed the Super Bowl since 1992 to have players crying about some stern coaching is pathetic, and Rivera should’ve never mentioned that. If anything, he should be ashamed as the man in charge that players feel that comfortable to do such a thing. 

Bieniemy Not Changing Style 

Many of the team’s players are standing by Bieniemy’s methods, including running back Antonio Gibson. The dual-threat says he’s in the best shape of his four-year career because of the volume of plays run and the high intensity of the practices. 

Second-year wide receiver Jahan Dotson also spoke in support of EB’s method.

“He’s coaching you hard because he believes in you. He wants you to succeed,” Dotson said. “You’ve got to realize that even when he’s getting on you about something you did wrong, he wants to make sure you get it right so on Sundays you don’t make a fool of yourself.”

Those comments just piggyback the ones made by former Chiefs wideouts Tyreek Hill and Mecole Hardman, who know firsthand how hard it is playing for EB. But they also know he’s a winner, and that’s something the Commanders need sorely in and around their franchise. 

While The NBA World Is Waiting On Trade Destinations For Dame And Harden, Pascal Siakam Is More Likely To Shift Title Odds

It’s August, which means quiet time in the NBA. While the league awaits trade destinations for James Harden and Damian Lillard, the eventual landing spot for Toronto Raptors forward Pascal Siakam might do more to change future NBA title odds.

Siakam is in the final year of his four-year contract and he has not been offered an extension yet. For a two-time All-NBA and All-Star player that hasn’t turned 30 yet, that is strange. According to NBA Insider Shams Charania, the Atlanta Hawks have expressed interest in acquiring him but the market is cool because Siakam has said he won’t sign an extension with another team. His preference is to remain in Toronto.

Raptors Are In Rebuild Mode

The Raptors are in rebuild mode and Siakam’s timeline does not line up with Scottie Barnes and rookie Gradey Dick. They already let Fred VanVleet go this summer in free agency, and OG Anunoby has been rumored to be on the trade block as well.

Siakam joining a team like the Hawks and partnering with Trae Young and Dejounte Murray would change their title odds. He’d bring a defensive identity they need and as a third offensive option he’s overqualified.

Pascal Siakam’s 52-Piece Against Knicks Makes Him Fourth Active Player To Drop 50+ At MSG | Who Are The Others?

The reason Lillard hasn’t been traded yet is that the value the Portland Trail Blazers can recoup isn’t on par for a player of his caliber. What the Blazers would want in return would gut a roster and make winning a championship tough.

The same is true for Harden, and while still an All-Star level player, he’s on the downside of his prime.

You need young players to help win titles, and that’s what the Philadelphia 76ers and Blazers would want in return, in addition to a ton of draft capital.

Will Lillard And Harden Age Well?

There are also more teams that Siakam could go to with a $37 million salary. Lillard is making $45 million and has $48 million, $58 million, and $63 million due to him over the next four years.

Lillard was excellent last year, but at 34 how many years like that does he have left? Small guards don’t age well in this league. We’ve discussed Harden’s decline.

At 29 Siakam has more of a prime runway remaining, and his two-way ability partnered with already strong offensive players make him more likely to change a team’s title odds.

No Thank You | Bills Josh Allen Is Latest Star QB To Pass On Netflix “Quarterback” Series

Buffalo Bills star quarterback Josh Allen says the opportunity to appear on the hit Netflix series “Quarterback” is appealing. But, while he’s gone back and forth on whether he should star in Season 2, he’s just focused on winning football games in 2023. The first season, which featured Patrick Mahomes, Kirk Cousins and Marcus Mariota drew rave reviews, and as the 2023 NFL season approaches producer Peyton Manning is trying line up his next three to follow throughout their entire NFL season. 

Allen, who’s unsure if wants to join the cast, also talked about why he’s on the fence about it. He also admitted that he recently spoke to reigning and two-time NFL and Super Bowl MVP Patrick Mahomes about his experience of doing it. 

Allen Calls Show Cool, But Hasn’t Given The OK That He’ll Join

“I talked to Pat Mahomes a little bit about it, and I think it’s a really cool concept. You look at some of the documentaries that have come out in the past, the Jordan documentary [“The Last Dance”]. I think that to have everything documented, especially as a quarterback, is really cool.”

Allen sounds like he wants to give it a try, but quickly says he doesn’t want to bring any extra attention to the Bills as a whole. 

“I don’t want any outside distractions. I don’t want any unnecessary distractions for myself or this team. I’m not saying that it would be.

“I’m a little undecided on whether I should want to do it or not,” Allen added. “I go back and forth sometimes in my mind, but as of now, I’m just trying to be the best quarterback for this team.”

What Is Netflix ‘Quarterback’ About? 

The series not only follows what the QB does on the field, but it also delves into the personal lives of the QBs. For instance, in SSeason 1 we saw Patrick Mahomes and his family doing things away from the field. Kirk Cousins gave us access into his home on numerous occasions, and Marcus Mariota’s wife showed herself attending doctor appointments as the couple was expecting their first child. 

For Allen, that may be the deal breaker with him reportedly dating actress Hailee Stanfield, and no one knows how she’ll feel about being filmed for the documentary. 

Chiefs Defensive Star Chris Jones’ Holdout Turns Into A Potential Lifetime Marriage

Kansas City Chiefs tackle Chris Jones is one of the best defensive linemen in the NFL. He has anchored a subpar Chiefs defense that has been carried by the historic Patrick Mahomes-led juggernaut of an offense for years.

But when the defense needed a leader, a crucial stop, Jones has been the brightest spot on that Chiefs D, and it’s time he cashed in on his consistency.

After Chris Jones decided to hold out for a new contract, as many of the NFL’s stars are doing, the press he received actually opened many people’s eyes to just how dominant he’s been as one of the best defenders in the league.

Many presumed that the star tackle would request a trade if the Kansas City Chiefs did not choose to tender him a new contract.

Chiefs’ general manager Brett Veach shut all talks of a potential trade request down immediately and expressed his willingness to feed into Jones’ demands.

According to the Kansas City Star, Veach said “I think for all parties, I think the best resolution would be for him to end his career as a Chief and get that financial security and for us to do what we had set out to do, and that’s to work through last offseason with this offseason in mind and get some young guys, which we did that, and then focus on this year and getting Chris done. Hopefully, we get this resolved, but we have no intentions of making a trade.”

Chris Jones Will Remain A High Value Chief

If Veach’s words stand true, Jones isn’t going anywhere, based on the way things are trending in this dispute.

Instead of giving pushback on trying to come to a contract agreement with Jones, Chiefs management stated that Jones is an elite talent, and the organization understands why the 29-year-old tackle wants to get a raise

“He’s a great player, and he wants a big contract,” Veach continued. “He deserves a big contract, and I don’t think there’s any surprises in that regard. But there’s just some hurdles we have to work through in regard to how we can keep this thing going for the short- and long-term. But we’ve never wavered on, ‘This is a guy that we want to exhaust all of our efforts to get done,’ because that’s how much we think of him.”

Chris Jones Is Worth The Money

Jones is a four-time Pro Bowl selection and two-time Super Bowl champion, and a one-time All-Pro. He recorded 15.5 sacks, and 44 total tackles last season on the way to the Chiefs’ second Super Bowl victory and finished third in the Defensive Player of the Year balloting.

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