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Draymond Green Says Luka Doncic & Lakers Hurt LeBron James
The Los Angeles Lakers are still forced to witness the loss of LeBron James remaining a huge talking point. Any NBA team losing an iconic figure will see this level of attention, and it is far bigger than the Lakers. Draymond Green decided to bring this back into the news by addressing something head coach […] The post Draymond Green Says Luka Doncic & Lakers Hurt LeBron James appeared first on HEAVY.
Bay Area sports calendar, Sept. 29-30
Coach Rod Brind'Amour and the defending champion Carolina Hurricanes will open the NHL season against the Florida Panthers at 2 p.m. Tuesday. (ESPN)
Connections: Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for Sept. 29, 2026, puzzle No. 736
Welcome to Connections: Sports Edition Coach — a spot to gather clues and discuss (and share) scores.
Triangle youth sports program focuses on lessons beyond the game
Coaches with one local organization say the lessons learned on the field can help shape success long after the final whistle.
Golden Knights Starting Over, but Fueled by ‘Unfinished Business’
A certain energy has crackled in the air at City National Arena throughout training camp and the preseason. There is a hunger, a sense of urgency that has nothing to do with the shortened preseason. And everyone in the Vegas Golden Knights organization, from the players to the head coach to the general manager, speaks of unfinished business.
Golden Knights Starting Over, but Fueled by ‘Unfinished Business’
A certain energy has crackled in the air at City National Arena throughout training camp and the preseason. There is a hunger, a sense of urgency that has nothing to do with the shortened preseason. And everyone in the Vegas Golden Knights organization, from the players to the head coach to the general manager, speaks of unfinished business.
John Harbaugh: Giants Could Still Add Another QB Following Trade
New York Giants head coach John Harbaugh says his team could still add another QB after JJ McCarthy trade. The post John Harbaugh: Giants Could Still Add Another QB Following Trade appeared first on HEAVY.
I know [coach Chris Finch] harps on me passing the …
I know [coach Chris Finch] harps on me passing the …
Michigan health leaders address substance use crisis at Lansing conference
The Community Mental Health Association of Michigan opened its 27th annual Substance Use Conference on Monday, drawing more than 1,200 providers participating both in person and online. Attendees range from clinical directors to recovery coaches.
Michigan health leaders address substance use crisis at Lansing conference
The Community Mental Health Association of Michigan opened its 27th annual Substance Use Conference on Monday, drawing more than 1,200 providers participating both in person and online. Attendees range from clinical directors to recovery coaches.
Takeaways From Jerry Dipoto's End-of-Season Press Conference
The Seattle Mariners president of baseball operations addressed the team's current managerial search, coaching decisions, roster moves and more.
Paul Finebaum slams 'absolute fraud' Lincoln Riley after Oregon loss
The ESPN analyst goes off on the Trojans coach.
USA TODAY Sports CFB writer says Brent Venables seat 'warming up'
The Oklahoma Sooners are locked in with head coach Brent Venables but a USA TODAY Sports college football writer says Venables' seat is warming up.
Nico Collins may be available for Week 4
Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans hopes Nico Collins can play in Week 4
Northwestern’s New Era Gets a Major Endorsement From David Braun
David Braun knows Friday night will mark more than just Northwestern’s first matchup with Penn State at the new Ryan Field. Before the Wildcats take the field, their head coach made a bold declaration about the new home of Northwestern football.
🚨 A rout is on! Italy are tearing Turkey apart
Italy, thoroughly revamped by coach Roberto Mancini, is working to be seen again as “Bella Italia.” In the Nations League clash against Türkiye, the Azzurri are at least showing that the change i...
Tuchel says Czech Republic game 'not yet a must-win'
England coach Thomas Tuchel said Monday the upcoming Nations League game against the Czech Republic in Prague was "not yet a must-win" despite a 3-2 loss to Spain last weekend.The Czechs have not lost any of their last four home games against England, and they won the last encounter 2-1 in a Euro 2020 qualifier in Prague in 2019.
MN Twins Announce Coaching Changes
Minnesota Twins pitching coaches Pete Maki and Luis Ramirez will not be back for the 2027 season.
Baker Mayfield expected to miss several weeks
Bucs head coach Todd Bowles expects QB Baker Mayfield to be sidelined three weeks
The 3 most disappointing college football teams this season
A month into the 2026 college football season, the preseason polls are already starting to look like works of fiction. For every team exceeding expectations, there’s another whose fan base is wondering what went wrong, and in some cases, whether the head coach will make it to November. Nearly every team entered the 2026 season…
Warriors’ Kristaps Porziņģis has ‘health issue,’ will miss start of camp
"This came as a surprise," Warriors coach Steve Kerr said. "But we'll deal with it and move forward."
Mike Tomlin Breaks With Coaching Fraternity in Critical Cowboys Analysis
Tomlin questioned the Cowboys’ decision-making in their loss vs. Baltimore.
Packers Position Coach Put on Hot Seat After Brutal Start
The Green Bay Packers‘ offensive line is a massive problem. A lot of that can be attributed to the injuries on the line. However, just as much blame can be placed on offensive line coach Luke Butkus. There have been plenty of potential suggestions for the Packers to make changes in the layoff between Week […] The post Packers Position Coach Put on Hot Seat After Brutal Start appeared first on HEAVY.
Coaching mistakes in the final seconds cost the Cowboys against the Ravens
The Dallas Cowboys made two wrong decisions in the final 10 seconds that cost them an opportunity to go to overtime against the Baltimore Ravens.
Bret Bielema Shows Urgency With Bobby Hauck Decision
Dismal defensive rankings forced an abrupt mid-season firing, proving the Illini head coach values immediate results over pride as he fights to save a crumbling season.
Trying to lose weight? Mindset matters — these 2-second tweaks can help
A Noom health coach shares 7 simple language shifts that can make healthy habits feel more manageable and setbacks less discouraging.
Video: Mancini responds to allegations of double Man City contract
Roberto Mancini’s Manchester City contract is among the 115 possible breaches of Premier League financial rules, but the Italy national team coach insists that ‘it’s not an issue that concerns m...
Mona Raises $3.5M to Expand Its AI Platform for Small Business Capital Access and Financial Coaching
SAN FRANCISCO, September 28, 2026--Mona raises $3.5M led by Sheryl Sandberg's venture fund SBVP with participation from Alumni Ventures, Wisdom Ventures, angels including Eric Schmidt
Zidane urges players to embrace challenge of playing for France
France head coach Zinedine Zidane called on his players to relish playing for the national team as his squad went through its final preparations without injured skipper Kylian Mbappé for Monday night's Nation's League tie against Belgium in Brussels.
'Flat' Plymouth display frustrates boss Cleverley
Plymouth Argyle head coach Tom Cleverley says he is frustrated by his side's "flat" performance in their 1-0 loss to Burton Albion.
Klopp sees no reason for negativity after Germany's setbacks
Jürgen Klopp has refused to be hit by a resurgent wave of negativity after two setbacks in his first two games as Germany coach. Following a disappointing last-32 exit from this year's World Cup, Klopp replaced Julian Nagelsmann.
Terim: Italy have ‘significant potential’ but no identity
Former Fiorentina and Milan coach Fatih Terim insists Italy must ‘rediscover identity and competitiveness’ and backs the Turkish FA’s decision to confirm Vincenzo Montella in charge despite a di...
Mass. launched a program to stop school sports bullying. Why are so few schools using it?
A state government initiative started four years ago specifically to prevent hate and bias in athletics, called Addressing Hate in School Sports. Yet reports of such incidents remain common across the booming school sports landscape.
Völler confirms Klopp will ditch 44-man Germany squad
Jürgen Klopp made a surprising call with his first squad selection as Germany coach, naming 44 players for the four UEFA Nations League matches during this international break and splitting them into...
Mexico tie Colombia in Rafael Marquez’s coaching debut
Mexico and Colombia tied 1-1 as they both opened their four year road to the 2030 World Cup.
Connections: Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for Sept. 28, 2026, puzzle No. 735
Welcome to Connections: Sports Edition Coach — a spot to gather clues and discuss (and share) scores.
UCF Coach Scott Frost Thanks Gus Malzahn’s Recruiting Talent
A new wave of Malzahn-era recruits ignited the Knights' dominant Big 12 victory, proving the former coach left the cupboard full.
LAFC part ways with head coach Marc Dos Santos
By Jonathan SigalLAFC have parted ways with head coach Marc Dos Santos, the club announced Sunday evening.Dos Santos was appointed in December 2025, taking over after being an assistant under previous...
Bills HC Joe Brady Assigns Blame After Josh Allen’s Struggles
Buffalo Bills head coach Joe Brady took the blame after quarterback Josh Allen committed three turnovers in a win over the Chargers. The post Bills HC Joe Brady Assigns Blame After Josh Allen’s Struggles appeared first on HEAVY.
Steelers may have unlocked their offense with a heavy dose of Jaylen Warren
Coach Mike McCarthy's bold decision to start Max Iheanachor and Brock Hoffman on the right side of the offensive line contributed to the running back's huge day.
Undefeated Bruins make it onto USA TODAY Sports US LBM Coaches Poll
The UCLA Bruins made their first appearance on USA TODAY Sports US LBM Coaches Poll in the fourth week of the 2026 college football season.
Nyland error gifts Portugal the win in Norway
Orjan Nyland made a costly mistake in the Norway goal and Gonçalo Ramos made no mistake. In Jorge Jesus’ second match in charge of Portugal, the coach claimed a second straight win and beat the Vik...
South Carolina star Dylan Stewart suspended indefinitely by Shane Beamer
South Carolina football coach Shane Beamer announced that star edge rusher Dylan Stewart has been suspended.
Coach pessimistic about De'Von Achane's injury
Miami Dolphins running back De'Von Achane left the Week 3 game due to a knee injury, and after the game, head coach Jeff Hafley was pessimistic.
Jahmyr Gibbs Trolls Aaron Glenn With Touchdown Celebration Against Jets
Lions RB Jahmyr Gibbs paid tribute to former Detroit defensive coordinator and current Jets coach Aaron Glenn with a hilarious touchdown celebration.
Vols drop to 17 after loss to Texas
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — The Tennessee Vols are ranked 17th after losing to Texas on Saturday at Neyland Stadium. On Sunday, the AP Top 25 poll and the AFCA Coaches Poll both listed Tennessee as 17th after its 20-17 loss to the Longhorns. This is a drop of three places in the AP ranking which […]
Xavi gets first win as Netherlands boss, Denmark beat Wales
The Netherlands gave Xavi Hernandez his first win as head coach with a 2-1 Nations League victory over Serbia in Belgrade on Sunday, while Denmark saw off Wales.In League B, Austria made it two wins from two as David Affengruber, Junior Adamu and Carney Chukwuemeka scored in a 3-1 win over Kosovo in Vienna.
Confirmed Lineups: Germany vs. Greece
Germany face Greece tonight in Jürgen Klopp’s second game as head coach and his first in front of a home crowd. After a 1-1 draw with the Netherlands in his debut, Klopp is still waiting for his fi...
Vega hails Yakin and Manzambi as Swiss head for Hampden
Former Celtic and Switzerland centre-half Ramon Vega says current national head coach Murat Yakin has "done a wonderful job" as he prepares to bring his side to Hampden Park on Tuesday. The Swiss opened with a 3-0 win on Saturday in North Macedonia, "which is not an easy place to go and they also have some good quality players". Vega pointed out that "Switzerland had a very good World Cup - one of their best in 70 years".
Notre Dame Remains Ranked No. 3 In Latest Coaches Poll
Marcus Freeman’s squad secured a perfect September by dismantling Purdue, fueled by CJ Carr’s four-touchdown performance and a dominant defense as chaos shook the Top 25 rankings.
College football rankings shuffled with Florida surging in US LBM Coaches Poll Top 25
The results of Week 4 in college football have shaken up the US LBM Coaches Poll Top 25. See who is moving up and who is moving down.
Spain bring in Le Normand for injured Garcia
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente on Sunday called up centre-back Robin Le Normand to his Nations League squad following an injury to Eric Garcia ahead of the world champions' 3-2 win away to England.French-born Le Normand has not played for Spain in almost a year.
🚨 Official: Europe’s youngest coach sacked!
Difficult start to the season.Parma officially announced this Sunday afternoon the departure of its coach, Carlos Cuesta.At 31 years old, the Spaniard was the youngest coach in Europe’s five major l...
Official: Parma part ways with head coach Carlos Cuesta
Parma have parted company with Carlos Cuesta, announcing the decision on Sunday during the international break and just days after a league win.In a statement, the club said the split followed interna...
What Was Brent Venables Thinking?
You know the scene. You’ve seen it a thousand times. A college football coach stands alone on the sidelines, his players and assistants looking to him for answers that he doesn’t have. They’ve lost this football game, and lost it badly. “Charley Pell’s off-the-books slush fund!” you think, “what must that guy be thinking in […]
Hakon Valdimarsson Impresses for Iceland as Brentford Goalkeeper Earns Praise
Hakon Valdimarsson saved a penalty and earned praise from Iceland head coach Arnar Gunnlaugsson following a 1-1 Nations League draw with Estonia.
All confirmed changes in Klopp's Germany XI against Greece
Jürgen Klopp will oversee his first home game as Germany head coach when his side face Greece in the second match of their Nations League campaign.Following a 1-1 draw with the Netherlands in Klopp's...
Mikel Arteta / Arsenal contract
The Premier League reigning champions are reportedly set to sign coach Mikel Arteta to a long-term deal, according to ESPN. Arteta’s current deal was set to expire in the summer of 2027, and the current deal was signed in 2024. But the timing of the new deal is significant. Arteta has successfully transformed Arsenal from […] The post Mikel Arteta Agrees To New Arsenal Contract appeared first on Stadium Rant.
Inside Gophers coach P.J. Fleck’s ‘crazy’ moment after Washington win
SEATTLE — P.J. Fleck got a little carried away in the immediate on-field celebration after the Gophers’ 27-24 win over Washington on Saturday. Linebacker Maverick Baranowski had just sealed the win in the Big Ten opener with a final-play tackle on Huskies receiver Dezmen Roebuck at Husky Stadium. Roebuck’s cleat slid up into Baranowski’s helmet and bloodied his mouth. Fleck then hugged one of ...
DeMarco Murray addresses managing Kenneth Walker III's workload
During his press conference, Kansas City Chiefs running backs coach DeMarco Murray addressed managing Kenneth Walker III's workload | @EdEastonJr
Terrell Williams making impact with Patriots after beating prostate cancer
Williams, who switched roles after beginning last year as defensive coordinator, would be the favorite for a Comeback Coach of the Year award, if it existed.
Schlotterbeck not listed in Germany's squad for match against Greece
Defender Nico Schlotterbeck will not play Germany's Nations League match against Greece on Sunday evening, according to the squad list published by UEFA ahead of the game. Coach Jürgen Klopp had to remove one player from his 24-man roster as regulations allow for only 20 field players and three goalkeepers.
Commentary: Arkansas football takes care of business to bushwhack upstart Tulsa
The positives coach Ryan Silverfield said Arkansas would build on following last week's home loss to Georgia are magnified as the Razorbacks out-gained their visitors by 200 yards in the rout.
Connections: Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for Sept. 27, 2026, puzzle No. 734
Welcome to Connections: Sports Edition Coach — a spot to gather clues and discuss (and share) scores.
Patriots ST coach reacts to underrated rookie's instant success
Patriots special teams coordinator Jeremy Springer has been impressed by rookie linebacker Namdi Obiazor.
Confidence in the Chicago Bears drop
The Chicago Bears suffered a tough loss last week in sloppy, wet conditions at Soldier Field, and the weather certainly slowed their high-powered offense. But Brian Flores’ blitz-happy Minnesota Vikings’ defense gave Chicago’s offense fits too. The Bears had their chances, and knowing the makeup of this team and head coach Ben Johnson, they’ll learn […]
Everything Kyle Whittingham said after Michigan's stunning loss to Iowa
Michigan coach Kyle Whittingham breaks down the Wolverines' narrow loss to Iowa and the path forward for the team.
Full Court Magic Episode 35: Major Takeaways Before Media Day
New head coach Sean Sweeney faces immense pressure to instill discipline as Jeff Weltman bets big on roster continuity and a veteran reunion to escape postseason stagnation.
Missouri State Football’s Growing Connection to the Lone Star State
Missouri State head coach Casey Woods and several players with Texas roots prepare to lead the Bears into a matchup against SMU in Dallas, marking the team's third consecutive trip to the state.
UCLA dominates in all phases of the game during rout of Maryland
Bob Chesney became the first UCLA coach to start his tenure 4-0 since 1949, steering the Bruins to a 54-3 Big Ten road victory over Maryland Saturday.
Mike Locksley buyout, contract details as Maryland Terrapins coach
Could the end be near for Maryland coach Mike Locksley?
Curt Cignetti Talks Up Northwestern After Narrow Win Friday
Northwestern impressed the Hoosiers' national title winning coach.
Lions Get Surprisingly Promising Update on $86M All-Pro
Detroit Lions head coach has been ominous when it comes to the potential return of safety Kerby Joseph. During his most recent interview with 97.1 The Ticket, he noted that he was not sure what could change for Joseph to see the field this season. However, NFL Insider Tom Pelissero of The Ringer shared a […] The post Lions Get Surprisingly Promising Update on $86M All-Pro appeared first on HEAVY.
Matt LaFleur refuses to entertain Packers’ offensive line coaching change
The Green Bay Packers reached an absurd new low during their 35-14 home defeat against the Atlanta Falcons on Thursday night, with the Lambeau Field crowd responding with loud boos as Green Bay struggled throughout the game. The team has faced significant injury issues, but expectations remain high around the franchise. Matt LaFleur acknowledged that [...]
UEFA Nations League Matchday Preview: Germany vs. Greece
Jürgen Klopp will look to build on a solid first outing as Germany coach
🧩 Grêmio puzzle: Renato tests options to solve problem
Grêmio coach Renato Gaúcho has been using the FIFA break to test options and find the best setup for the midfield.The Tricolor manager knows he will not be able to count on the suspended Noriega in ...
Jürgen Klopp confirms Alexander Nübel will play against Greece
German national team head coach Jürgen Klopp has stated that 29-year-old Besiktas goalkeeper Alexander Nübel will play between the sticks in the UEFA Nations League game against Greece on Sunday. M...
Germany coach Klopp support nation's plans to host Olympics
Germany coach Jürgen Klopp showed his support for the nation's plans to host Olympic Games with an emotional anecdote. "All my memories of sports actually begin with the Olympic Games," Klopp told broadcasters ARD.
What is Shane Beamer's buyout as South Carolina football coach?
Here is South Carolina football coach Shane Beamer's contract, salary and buyout
Chiefs Wire Podcast Interview Series: Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid
Chiefs Wire Podcast Interview Series: @EdEastonJr chats with Kansas City Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid
Women
Everything is set for Juventus Women’s opening match of the 2026/27 Serie A Women season. The Bianconere take on Napoli Women on Matchday 1 of the league campaign.Here are the two coaches’ selecti...
Jimbo Fisher continues defense of Texas A&M's 'historic' 2022 class
Texas A&M's 2022 recruiting class has mostly vanished, leading former coach Jimbo Fisher to defend his legacy in College Station.
Everton Women’s Scott Phelan calls for Matt Beard tribute
Everton Women boss wants derby recognition for Reds coach
Tom Thibodeau Attends the Rockets' Practice
Former Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau visited the Rockets’ training camp Thursday, reconnecting with the franchise where he established himself as one of the NBA’s top defensive assistants.
Connections: Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for Sept. 26, 2026, puzzle No. 733
Welcome to Connections: Sports Edition Coach — a spot to gather clues and discuss (and share) scores.
Who Needs to Step Up Without Buccaneers' Top Rookies?
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will be without Josiah Trotter and Rueben Bain Jr. in Sunday's pivotal home matchup. With these rookies sidelined, who will pick up the slack for head coach Todd Bowles' unit.
Who Needs to Step Up Without Buccaneers' Top Rookies?
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will be without Josiah Trotter and Rueben Bain Jr. in Sunday's pivotal home matchup. With these rookies sidelined, who will pick up the slack for head coach Todd Bowles' unit.
Jon Gruden Questions Steelers’ Offensive Line Chaos Amid Struggles: ‘Why?’
Jon Gruden has seen plenty of offensive lines during his coaching career; however, the Pittsburgh Steelers’ current setup has left him genuinely puzzled. The former head coach watched the unit shuffle players between positions through the offseason and into the regular season, and now the results are becoming harder to ignore. The Steelers entered the […] The post Jon Gruden Questions Steelers’ Offensive Line Chaos Amid Struggles: ‘Why?’ appeared first on Gridiron Heroics.
Cowboys emphasize business trip mentality as they practice in Rio ahead of their game vs Ravens
RIO DE JANEIRO (AP) — The Dallas Cowboys began their preparations in Rio de Janeiro on Friday for their game against the Baltimore Ravens with an eye on the task at hand and not the sights for which the city is known. Brian Schottenheimer, coaching in his first international game as the Cowboys’ head coach,
The problem with drive-through halftime and postgame interviews
Has anyone anywhere ever seen an on-field interview with a coach and wished it had been longer?
Brian Schottenheimer: "This Is a Business Trip"
Head coach Brian Schottenheimer discusses the Cowboys' preparation for their international matchup against the Baltimore Ravens, emphasizing the challenges posed by Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry, the importance of communication on defense, and rookie Ja
Mancini contract among 115 Manchester City charges in financial scandal
New Italy coach Roberto Mancini is embroiled in the Manchester City scandal, as alleged off-book payments to him are among the 115 possible breaches of Premier League financial rules.According to mult...
Quick hitters: O-line health, safety depth and Dan Campbell’s first days in Detroit with Glenn
Allen Park — Detroit Lions coach Dan Campbell and quarterbacks coach Mark Brunell met with the media on Friday. Here are the noteworthy items from those conversations. Healthier up front, banged up in the back It’s good news, bad news on the injury front. First, the offensive line is going to be far closer to full strength with starters Blake Miller (knee) and Christian Mahogany (hip) on track to return to the lineup. That provides stability the offense lacked against Buffalo, particularly at right tackle, where backup Larry Borom allowed 11 quarterback pressures and committed a trio of penalties. Subscribe However, with that same unit, veteran Ben Bartch (foot) is likely to miss Sunday’s matchup with the Jets. The left guard competition that’s been ongoing since May has effectively been whichever option is healthy that week. In the back end, safety Thomas Harper (ankle) is also unlikely to be available on Sunday. That leaves the team precariously thin at the position following Avonte Maddox going on injured reserve this week. Christian Izien is expected to get the start alongside Chuck Clark. “Izzy's been working a lot back there and had a full week,” Campbell said. “And he's gotten a ton of work this week, a ton of reps, full-speed reps. ‘This is what you're going to do, this is the calls’ and just dousing him with full-speed reps and he's done a good job this week.” Safety depth is the bigger concern. The team is expected to count on some combination of Jalen Mills, who signed to the practice squad on Monday, Bishop Fitzgerald, the undrafted rookie poached off the Steelers’ practice squad on Tuesday, and rookie cornerback Keith Abney, who doesn’t have experience at safety. “I'll say this about Abney, man, for a rookie, he's a pretty dang smart, conscientious, aware football player that's got a ton of room to really take off,” Campbell said. “…He's young. He's another one, he just needs reps and reps. But, if we need it, that'll be a guy who may have to go in for us.” You can check here for the full injury report, with game designations, later this afternoon. Reflecting on the past Responding to comments made by Jets coach Aaron Glenn this week, Campbell reflected on his earliest days with the Lions, before the coaching staff had been fleshed out and it was just he and Glenn at the facility working through what they wanted things to look like. “It was just he and I in the lab,” Campbell said. The coach said the two would fill the whiteboard that remains in current coordinator Kelvin Sheppard’s office top to bottom with notes about philosophy, coaching style, team identity and the type of players they wanted to target. “He looks different than me,” Campbell said. “I'm taller, I'm whatever. He's quicker. All these different things, man, but we're really the same. I mean we're so much the same. And he's the defensive version, I'm the offensive version. He was my right hand man. …It was fun, man. Those were good days.” Campbell said it was one of the best and worst days of his life when the Jets hired Glenn to be their coach. “AG means the world to me,” Campbell said. “He's one of my dearest friends because I know what he's made of. “…It's because you know you're losing a little piece of you. That's what he meant to me and to us. So, that's hard.” Traits under center A couple of weeks back, Sheppard noted that Brunell had identified Saints quarterback Tyler Shough as the best prospect at the position ahead of the 2025 draft. On Friday, Brunell confirmed his evaluation and explained what he looks for when studying a young quarterback. Here’s the full answer: “Young quarterbacks, you have to look at everything, you know? I look at guys coming out of college just like I look at any free agents that we might be looking at, or guys that we might add to our roster. Do they take care of the ball? Are they on time? How is their decision-making? How are their feet? “It's tough because you look at a college player, you don't understand what they're trying to do offensively, what their reads are, but you can identify when a guy is accurate, obviously, and when the ball's getting there on time. If there are a lot of interceptions, it raises a red flag. And I think with a lot of the spread offenses of what you're seeing, when you see a young player and they're running some pro concepts and he's having to make protection calls, and he's getting the right play out of the run game, and when there's a lot on his plate and he's executing it very well, and he's managing all of that, that really jumps out at you. It’s really hard to find. “That's one thing we saw with Luke Altmeyer. He had a lot of experience. We call it, ‘Hey, he's playing quarterback.’ And what does that mean? It's not just completing passes. It's getting guys lined up, getting the right play, getting the protection call right, just fixing some problems, being able to progress (through reads). And there's still some young guys out there that can do that at a high level, which is good to see.” Regarding Altmyer, who competed for the team’s backup job through the offseason and currently resides on the practice squad, Brunell acknowledged physical development slows once the season starts, because there aren’t reps to go around. However, there’s still extensive mental development that’s ongoing. “The key for him is approach the game as if you're the starter, mentally,” Brunell said. “And that's really all you can do. Approach the game as if you're the starter and be good in the (class)room. You come in alongside Jared (Goff), and you come in alongside Josh (Dobbs) and (do) whatever they need. And if you get an opportunity to talk to Luke, he'll tell you he does have a lot of responsibilities besides just getting donuts for us on Saturday. “For him, it's mentally staying focused, and even though there's really no chance this Sunday of him playing, he has to approach it as if he's taking the first snap and playing the whole game. So what's our game plan? What are our checks? What are we anticipating? And then during the game, we keep him involved as far as looking at coverages and pressures. And so, really, for him, it's just a mental game. And for now, that's all we can do.” Reason for more zone The Lions have significantly increased their usage of zone coverage on defense this season. I asked Campbell if that was a reaction to their personnel or driven by the focus to generate more turnovers, given it can be easier to produce interceptions when you can keep eyes on the quarterback while playing zone. “I think it was a little bit of both,” Campbell said. “We just felt like this would suit us a little bit better up to this point, and then be disruptive and get takeaways, which worked well Week 1. We had two (opportunities) last week against Buffalo we weren’t able to get, but they’re there.” I followed up by asking how much the combination of heavy blitzing with the back end playing zone has contributed to some of the early-season coverage woes, since adding extra players to the pass rush means leaving the coverage short-staffed. “I mean, it’s challenging, and that’s why a lot of the things we’ve done in zone, for the most part, have been to reduce that stress level back there,” Campbell said. “But that also requires the front getting there. And if you don’t get there, we already kind of talked about that, but there (has to be) a trust there.” The alternative, Campbell explained is sending four and it taking longer for the rush to get home, which can create different problems for a defense. “You can bleed yards,” Campbell said about the strategy. “It gets a little longer and it’s dink-and-dunk and run after catch. …So, we do what we think is right by what we feel like our personnel (does well). But also the game plan, who you’re going in to play, the matchups, their offense. “We’re not stuck on one way.” Detroit Football Network is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Subscribe
New-look squad, but how will Pocognoli's Scotland line-up?
Former Scotland forwards James McFadden and Pat Nevin try to guess who new head coach Sebastien Pocognoli will pick to start in Slovenia on Saturday.
✂️ Coach cracks down: top nation banned from the barber!
Modern footballers are certainly known for sporting extravagant looks and occasionally setting one hairstyle trend or another.Here and there, however, the pros seem to spend a little too much time on ...