There isn't another team in college football history that can hold a candle to the path Ohio Stat...

<p>There isn't another team in college football history that can hold a candle to the path Ohio State took on its route to a national championship, according to Big Ten commissioner Tony Petitti.</p><p>“That’s the greatest run in college football history," Petitti said following the Buckeyes' 34-23 victory over Notre Dame on Monday night, via <a href="https://x.com/RossDellenger/status/1881560359577981236">Ross Dellenger of Yahoo Sports</a>. </p><p>Ohio State earned the honor of being the first program ever to record five wins against AP top-five opponents in a single season with Monday's win, according to <a href="https://x.com/PeteThamel/status/1881431379575197909">ESPN's Pete Thamel</a>. The Buckeyes entered the title game tied with LSU's 2019 team, USC's 1967 squad, and Notre Dame's 1943 roster.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Ryan Day's group are also the first winners of the 12-team College Football Playoff format. Day and Co. defeated Tennessee to start before handing Oregon its first and only loss of the season. They then went on to beat Texas before trouncing Notre Dame in the CFP final.</p><p>"We built a foundation early in the season," Day <a href="https://x.com/espn/status/1881557710753177883">said</a> postgame. "We knew (we'd have to) withstand some storms along the way. We did. We stuck together, we hung in there like a family does when things get hard."</p><p>He added: "This just gives so much credibility to what these guys did all season. I'm so proud of them."</p><p>The national championship was the first of Day's career and Ohio State's first since 2014.</p>

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - JANUARY 20: Josh Fryar #70 and head coach Ryan Day of the Ohio State Buckeyes celebrate after beating the Notre Dame Fighting Irish 34-23 in the 2025 CFP National Championship at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium on January 20, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia.

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Big Ten commish: Ohio State had 'greatest run in college football history'

Lamar Jackson suffered yet another postseason exit as the Baltimore Ravens fell to the Buffalo Bi...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97162" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97162">Lamar Jackson</a> suffered yet another postseason exit as the Baltimore Ravens fell to the Buffalo Bills in the divisional round, but those around him believe it's a matter of when - not if - he'll hold the Lombardi Trophy.</p><p>"It's inevitable," fullback Patrick Ricard told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/43495114/ravens-believe-jackson-win-super-bowl-inevitable">ESPN's Jamison Hensley</a> on Monday. "He's going to win a Super Bowl, and I want to be a part of it. It just sucks that it hasn't happened yet."</p><p>Jackson has been subject to criticism for his postseason play over his career. He engineered what would have been a game-tying drive in Sunday's 27-25 loss had tight end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/82707" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/82707">Mark Andrews</a> not dropped the pass on the two-point conversion, but he was responsible for two turnovers during the game, throwing an interception and losing a fumble.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 28-year-old was critical of his own mistakes postgame and told reporters "I'm tired of this shit."</p><p>Jackson has accumulated 13 total touchdowns and 11 turnovers lost over eight postseason starts. He owns a 3-5 record in those matchups. </p><p>Ricard believes there's "still time" for Jackson to win a Super Bowl.</p><p>"He's still young," Ricard added. "He's definitely going to (get) one at some point."</p><p>Jackson is a candidate to be named NFL MVP for the third time in his career after setting new personal bests in passing yards (4,172), touchdown passes (41), and interception rate (0.8%) in 2024.</p>

ORCHARD PARK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 19: Lamar Jackson #8 of the Baltimore Ravens looks to pass prior to an NFL Football game against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium on January 19, 2025 in Orchard Park, New York.

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Ravens' Ricard: Lamar winning Super Bowl is 'inevitable'

Cooper Kupp isn't sure what the next stage of his NFL career will look like, but he hopes it'll b...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/68147" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/68147">Cooper Kupp</a> isn't sure what the next stage of his NFL career will look like, but he hopes it'll be with the Los Angeles Rams.</p><p>"Who knows what's going to happen," Kupp said Monday, according to <a href="https://x.com/AdamGrosbard/status/1881461330898821136">Adam Grosbard of LA Daily News</a>. "A lot of stuff's out of my control. We'll see what it's going to be. I don't have any clarity on what that's going to look like."</p><p>However, Kupp added that he "obviously would love to be in L.A."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Kupp is the latest Rams veteran whose status is uncertain following Sunday's divisional-round defeat to the Philadelphia Eagles. Quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/680" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/680">Matthew Stafford</a> <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3195230" href="https://thescore.com/news/3195230">said</a> postgame that he'll take some time to ponder his future, though he feels he still has some football left in him.</p><p>Los Angeles reportedly contacted teams about trading Kupp earlier this season. The 31-year-old is under contract through the 2026 season and accounts for a $29.8-million cap hit in 2025, per <a href="https://www.spotrac.com/nfl/player/_/id/21811/cooper-kupp">Spotrac</a>.</p><p>Kupp led the NFL in receptions (145), receiving yards (1,947), and touchdowns (16) during the 2021 campaign but has struggled to stay healthy since, missing 18 games over the past three seasons. Kupp ended the 2024 campaign with 67 catches for 710 yards and six scores.</p>

PHILADELPHIA, PA - JANUARY 19, 2025: Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Cooper Kupp (10) walks off the field after the Rams loss to the Eagles in the NFC Divisional playoff at Lincoln Financial Field on January 19, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

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Kupp: Future uncertain but 'would love' to remain with Rams

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen had nothing but respect for his MVP rival and Baltimore Rave...

<p>Buffalo Bills quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/94699" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/94699">Josh Allen</a> had nothing but respect for his MVP rival and Baltimore Ravens passer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97162" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97162">Lamar Jackson</a> following Sunday's divisional-round meeting.</p><p>"I got nothing but love for Lamar," Allen said after the Bills' 27-25 victory over the Ravens, according to <a href="https://x.com/AlbertBreer/status/1881172575675687093">Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated</a>. "He's one of the greatest ever to put a uniform on."</p><p>The battle between the two MVP candidates ended dramatically after Jackson's potential game-tying fourth-quarter drive fell short when Ravens tight end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/82707" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/82707">Mark Andrews</a> dropped a pass on the two-point conversion in the final minutes.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Greatness from these two all season long 🤝 <a href="https://t.co/5nkJT9Wlth">pic.twitter.com/5nkJT9Wlth</a></p>— NFL (@NFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NFL/status/1881176023452246145?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Allen completed 16 of 22 pass attempts for 127 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions in the contest. However, he did most of his damage on the ground with two rushing scores.</p><p>Jackson was 18-for-25 passing with two touchdowns but hurt his team with an interception and a fumble lost.</p><p>Neither Allen nor Jackson have won a Lombardi Trophy, but the Bills quarterback will have an opportunity to get to his first Super Bowl in a matchup against Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs next Sunday.</p>

ORCHARD PARK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 19: Lamar Jackson #8 of the Baltimore Ravens and Josh Allen #17 of the Buffalo Bills embrace after the AFC Divisional Playoff game at Highmark Stadium on January 19, 2025 in Orchard Park, New York.

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Allen shows love to MVP rival: Lamar is 'one of the greatest ever'

Detroit Lions offensive tackle Penei Sewell came to the defense of Jared Goff after the quarterba...

<p>Detroit Lions offensive tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161672" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161672">Penei Sewell</a> came to the defense of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/71572" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/71572">Jared Goff</a> after the quarterback committed four turnovers in an unexpected postseason loss to the Washington Commanders.</p><p>"I just don't understand how ... people can put a blame on one person at all," Sewell said Sunday, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/43481916/lions-penei-sewell-unfair-blame-jared-goff-playoff-exit">ESPN's Eric Woodyard</a>. "It's not like he's the one that's out there by himself. So, I'll never understand it. But again, that's not my world and what I pay attention to, but bullshit."</p><p>Goff threw three interceptions and lost a fumble during the 45-31 defeat. His first turnover - a strip sack - came at the end of the first quarter with the Lions in the red zone. Goff then threw a pick-6 in the second quarter before being intercepted again on a pass to the end zone to finish the first half. His final pick came on the Lions' last drive while they were down 14.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The signal-caller <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3194462" href="https://thescore.com/news/3194462">admitted</a> postgame that he'll be haunted by his performance.</p><p>"Had I played better, do we win? Possibly," Goff said Saturday. "And that's the part that'll eat me alive all offseason."</p><p>Detroit's defense couldn't stop the Commanders' offense. Rookie passer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199756" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199756">Jayden Daniels</a> threw for 299 yards with two touchdowns to zero interceptions, and Washington also put up 182 yards on the ground.</p><p>The Lions won a franchise-record 15 games during the 2024 season.</p>

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - DECEMBER 22: Jared Goff #16 and Penei Sewell #58 of the Detroit Lions wait in the tunnel before the game against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on December 22, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers is inactive for Sunday's divisional-round game against...

<p>Baltimore Ravens wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188142" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188142">Zay Flowers</a> is inactive for Sunday's divisional-round game against the Buffalo Bills due to a knee injury, the team announced.</p><p>Flowers was listed as doubtful entering the contest, though head coach John Harbaugh said Friday that the wideout had "a chance" to suit up.</p><p>The 24-year-old also missed Baltimore's wild-card victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers due to the injury.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Flowers was the team's leading receiver in 2024, totaling 74 receptions and 1,059 yards. He also earned his first Pro Bowl nod.</p><p>The winner of Sunday's meeting between the Ravens and Bills will travel to Kansas City to take on the Chiefs in the AFC title game.</p>

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - JANUARY 04: Zay Flowers #4 of the Baltimore Ravens runs with the ball after making a catch against the Cleveland Browns at M&T Bank Stadium on January 04, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland.

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Ravens' Flowers out vs. Bills 

The Detroit Lions' one-and-done postseason loss to the Washington Commanders will haunt quarterba...

<p>The Detroit Lions' one-and-done postseason loss to the Washington Commanders will haunt quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/71572" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/71572">Jared Goff</a> for a while.</p><p>Goff was responsible for four turnovers - three interceptions and a strip-sack fumble - in the Lions' 45-31 shocking defeat at Ford Field.</p><p>"I know I'm repeating myself at this point but, had I played better, do we win? Possibly. And that's the part that'll eat me alive all offseason," Goff told reporters, including <a href="https://x.com/ByKimberleyA/status/1880846182194495783">Kimberley A. Martin of ESPN</a>, postgame.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Lions won a franchise-record 15 games during the 2024 season, locking up the conference's No. 1 seed. However, Detroit committed five turnovers in the defeat and struggled to slow Washington's offense, allowing 481 yards and 6.6 yards per play.</p><p>"I'm so painfully disappointed, and I'm sorry to our fans," Goff added, according to <a href="https://x.com/BradGalli/status/1880845688948617661">Brad Galli of WXYZ Detroit</a>. "It sucks."</p><p>Detroit head coach Dan Campbell echoed his quarterback's sentiments. </p><p>"It just hurts to lose, man," the sideline boss <a href="https://x.com/NFLonCBS/status/1880844249152840100">told</a> reporters. "I don't care if you're the 7-seed, 6-seed, 5-seed, 1-seed, 'cause I've lost in all of them, damn near, and it stings."</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Dan Campbell is emotional after the Lions' loss to the Commanders. <br><br>(via <a href="https://twitter.com/Lions?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Lions</a>) <a href="https://t.co/zkdQbG7dBW">pic.twitter.com/zkdQbG7dBW</a></p>— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) <a href="https://twitter.com/NFLonFOX/status/1880846167996825950?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The Lions suffered a similar heartbreak in the 2023 season when they fell just short of the Super Bowl, losing to the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC title game.</p>

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - JANUARY 18: Jared Goff #16 of the Detroit Lions looks to throw the ball during the second quarter against the Washington Commanders in the NFC Divisional Playoff at Ford Field on January 18, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan.

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Goff: Performance in playoff loss 'will eat me alive all offseason'

The Chicago Bears are scheduled to interview former NFL running back and current Tennessee State ...

<p>The Chicago Bears are scheduled to interview former NFL running back and current Tennessee State coach Eddie George for their vacant head coaching job, <a href="https://x.com/JayGlazer/status/1880838245111771512">Fox Sports' Jay Glazer</a> reports.</p><p>George has been Tennessee State's head coach since 2021. He was named Big South–OVC Coach of the Year for the 2024 campaign after posting a 9-4 record. George has compiled a 24-22 record with Tennessee State.</p><p>The 51-year-old was a first-round pick of the then-Houston Oilers in 1996 and produced a decorative career. George eclipsed 1,000 rushing yards in seven of his nine NFL seasons. He ended his playing career with 10,441 yards and 68 touchdowns on the ground.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Chicago has <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3181542" href="https://thescore.com/news/3181542">interviewed</a> numerous candidates for its head coaching job, including Mike McCarthy, Ben Johnson, and Pete Carroll.</p>

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE - OCTOBER 18: Former running back Eddie George of the Tennessee Titans watching the game from the sidelines during a game against the Buffalo Bills at Nissan Stadium on October 18, 2021 in Nashville, Tennessee. The Titans defeated the Bills 34-31.

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Report: Bears to interview Eddie George for head coaching job

Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid became the fourth head coach in NFL history to win at lea...

<p>Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid became the fourth head coach in NFL history to win at least 300 games, including playoffs, with his 23-14 victory Saturday over the Houston Texans.</p><p>Reid joins George Halas, Don Shula, and Bill Belichick in the exclusive group of coaches with 300-plus wins.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Celebrating a 300 burger for Big Red 🍔 <a href="https://t.co/ahWIlusu02">pic.twitter.com/ahWIlusu02</a></p>— Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) <a href="https://twitter.com/Chiefs/status/1880800847732613335?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The Chiefs coach needs 47 wins to match Shula's record of 347 victories.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Coach</th>
<th> All-Time Wins</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Don Shula</td>
<td> 347</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bill Belichick</td>
<td> 333</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>George Halas</td>
<td> 324</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Andy Reid</td>
<td> 300</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Reid's Chiefs are attempting to win a third consecutive Super Bowl, which has never been done before. </p><p>"Three hundred wins is crazy," Mahomes said postgame about his coach, according to <a href="https://x.com/AlbertBreer/status/1880775526849315095">Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer</a>. "But I think he's trying to get to 302 (wins)."</p><p>Reid began his career with the Philadelphia Eagles, winning 140 games with the franchise. He joined the Chiefs in 2013 and added another 160 victories. Reid also won three Super Bowls with Kansas City (2019, 2022, 2023).</p>

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - JANUARY 18: Head coach Andy Reid of the Kansas City Chiefs looks on against the Houston Texans during the first quarter in the AFC Divisional Playoff at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium on January 18, 2025 in Kansas City, Missouri.

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Reid becomes 4th coach in NFL history to reach 300 career wins

The Minnesota Vikings aren't dreading any offseason decisions about the future of the quarterback...

<p>The Minnesota Vikings aren't dreading any offseason decisions about the future of the quarterback position. Instead, they are looking forward to it.</p><p>General manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah believes the team has a good problem by having two options in either the veteran <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/98048" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/98048">Sam Darnold</a>, who is slated to be a free agent, or the returning <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199765" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199765">J.J. McCarthy</a>.</p><p>"You're making decisions under uncertainty," Adofo-Mensah told reporters, including <a href="https://www.startribune.com/minnesota-vikings-kwesi-adofo-mensah-kevin-oconnell-quarterbacks-sam-darnold-jj-mccarthy/601206827">Andrew Krammer of The Minnesota Star Tribune</a>. "Once you find a course of action, it's about how you go about your plan. How you show up every day and get the best version of whoever you decide to go with at quarterback. How does that fit into your long-term picture? Contract structure? All those things will go into our plan.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I'm excited to have those conversations because I think we have a lot of good options. At the most important position in our sport, I think that's a great thing."</p><p>Darnold signed a one-year contract last offseason and turned his opportunity into a career season, throwing for a personal-best 4,319 yards and 35 touchdowns while compiling a 14-3 record. Despite this success, his campaign ended on a sour note as he struggled in a Week 18 loss to the Detroit Lions and a playoff defeat to the Los Angeles Rams.</p><p>"Incredible football for us. Won a lot of big games," Adofo-Mensah said of Darnold. "We're talking about games where he won them for us. There were a lot of games where he was a win-because-of type of player. You also have to net that with all of (the games) in totality."</p><p>The Vikings face the dilemma of deciding whether to retain Darnold either via an extension or franchise tag or allowing him to enter free agency. That would give the starter's job to McCarthy, who Minnesota selected 10th overall in 2024 but missed the season after meniscus surgery.</p><p>Adofo-Mensah said McCarthy has been progressing well in his return, and head coach Kevin O'Connell added the 21-year-old QB is in position to be "right where we hoped he would be at this point," according to <a href="https://x.com/BenGoessling/status/1879969248392495156">Ben Goessling of The Minnesota Star Tribune</a>.</p><p>"He's on the field, throwing and training," the general manger said, according to <a href="https://x.com/WillRagatz/status/1879958404351053999">Will Ragatz of Bring Me The Sports</a>. "He looks great. You talk about a kid who's just obsessed with football and loves being around the game. We're excited about what we have in him. We're excited about this offseason for him."</p><p>O'Connell, who has won 13 or more games in two of his three seasons as head coach, <a href="https://x.com/BenGoessling/status/1879966386497167538">noted</a> that he wants to sign an extension with the Vikings this offseason. His contract expires after the 2025 campaign.</p>

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - DECEMBER 29: Kwesi Adofo-Mensah general manager of the Minnesota Vikings looks on prior to a game between the Minnesota Vikings and Green Bay Packers at U.S. Bank Stadium on December 29, 2024 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

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The Dallas Cowboys requested to speak to Philadelphia Eagles offensive coordinator Kellen Moore a...

<p>The Dallas Cowboys requested to speak to Philadelphia Eagles offensive coordinator Kellen Moore about their head coaching vacancy, <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/1879919399773311009">NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo</a> report.</p><p>The interview is expected to take place at some point this weekend before the Eagles' divisional-round game against the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday, according to <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/1879928707588235653">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>.</p><p>Moore began his NFL coaching career with Dallas. He spent the 2018 season as the Cowboys' quarterbacks coach and the next four seasons (2019-22) as their offensive coordinator.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Moore and the Cowboys mutually parted ways after the 2022 campaign. He served as offensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Chargers in 2023 before taking the same position with the Eagles this season.</p><p>His best year in charge of the Cowboys' offense was 2021 when his unit led the NFL in points scored and yardage. In four of his six seasons as an offensive coordinator, Moore's offense ranked in the top 10 in scoring.</p><p>He entered the NFL as an undrafted free-agent quarterback in 2012 and finished his playing career with the Cowboys before transitioning to coaching. He appeared in three games with Dallas - making two starts - and threw for four touchdowns to six interceptions.</p><p>Dallas split with former head coach Mike McCarthy on Monday after five seasons together. The NFC East franchise spoke with Colorado head coach Deion Sanders about the job and is also reportedly interested in Robert Saleh and Leslie Frazier.</p>

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - DECEMBER 29: Offensive coordinator Kellen Moore of the Philadelphia Eagles looks on prior to the game against the Dallas Cowboys at Lincoln Financial Field on December 29, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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Report: Cowboys request to interview Eagles' Kellen Moore

It took only one season for rookie quarterback Bo Nix to make believers out of the Denver Broncos...

<p>It took only one season for rookie quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199735" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199735">Bo Nix</a> to make believers out of the Denver Broncos' brass. </p><p>"I think there were a lot of things to be encouraged about," head coach Sean Payton said of his quarterback Wednesday. "His movement skills, some of the things, maybe, that we didn’t even see or forecast coming. His decision-making. He's extremely accurate."</p><p>Payton added, "I think it's all in front of him. I’ve said this before, I think we’ve found that player that can lead us and be what we need relative to having the success we're used to having. I think we’ve found it."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Nix led the Broncos back to the playoffs in his rookie season, ending a nine-year drought. The No. 12 pick completed 66.3% of his passes for 29 touchdowns to 12 interceptions.</p><p>Broncos owner Greg Penner echoed Payton's beliefs, stating he was "incredibly impressed" by Nix's poise. </p><p>"It never seemed like any moment was too big for him," Penner explained. "We had some big moments this year. He battled throughout games and never saw him give up or let up, even when things were not going our way. He's got all the physical traits that you need to be a great quarterback. Mentally, he is sharp. The players respond to him. His teammates love him."</p><p>Penner wasn't shy to share his objective for 2025 as Nix enters his second year, telling reporters that the team's "absolute goal next year is to win our division."</p><p>"Absolutely, yes," Penner said when asked if Denver was close to competing for a division title. "I mean we could have very easily been 2-0 against the Chiefs this year."</p><p>The Broncos won 10 games in 2024, finishing third in the AFC West. They went 1-1 against the division-winning Chiefs, with a 38-0 win against Kansas City's backups in Week 18 and a two-point loss in Week 10.</p>

ORCHARD PARK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 12: Bo Nix #10 of the Denver Broncos calls out the play in the second quarter against the Buffalo Bills during the AFC Wild Card Playoffs at Highmark Stadium on January 12, 2025 in Orchard Park, New York.

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Broncos' Payton: In Nix 'we've found that player that can lead us'

UFC fighter Conor McGregor has been sued for allegedly sexually assaulting a woman after a 2023 N...

<p>UFC fighter Conor McGregor has been sued for allegedly sexually assaulting a woman after a 2023 NBA Finals game in Miami, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/43426903/conor-mcgregor-accused-sexual-assault-civil-lawsuit">ESPN's Michael Rothstein</a>.</p><p>The lawsuit, which was filed Tuesday by a 49-year-old woman, asserts that McGregor "intentionally engaged in unlawful sexual contact" without "consent or permission" in a bathroom of the Kaseya Center on June 9, 2023, after Game 4 between the Miami Heat and Denver Nuggets. McGregor injured the Heat's mascot during a skit at halftime, and the lawsuit also claims that arena staff committed gross negligence, in part by overserving him.</p><p>The woman filed an incident report with Miami's police department on June 11 about the alleged sexual assault, though the Florida State Attorney's Office elected not to pursue charges in October 2023.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>McGregor began talking to the woman inside the Courtside Club, according to the lawsuit. When she left, a member of McGregor's entourage met the woman, told her, "Conor told me to come get you" and then took her by the wrist, the lawsuit continues. The woman allegedly asked to be let go but was denied. According to the lawsuit, McGregor then grabbed her by the wrist, brought her into the bathroom, and led her into a stall.</p><p>Arena security and/or staff blocked the woman's acquaintance from following them, and then McGregor assaulted the woman inside the bathroom stall, the lawsuit states.</p><p>The woman's attorney, Jim Dunn, told ESPN that his client's "main goal in filing this suit is to raise awareness and encourage others to report sexual assault."</p><p>"After a thorough investigation at the time, the state's attorney concluded that there was no case to pursue," McGregor's attorney, Barbara Llanes, said in a statement to ESPN. "Almost two years and at least three lawyers later, the plaintiff has a new false story. We are confident that this case too will be dismissed."</p><p>The suit says that arena staff acted with gross negligence and "had chargeable knowledge of a heightened risk of battery being carried out" by McGregor but continued to serve him alcohol anyway. The man portraying Heat mascot Burnie later went to the hospital after McGregor punched him twice on the court during a halftime promotional routine for a pain relief spray.</p><p>"The special treatment of (McGregor) by allowing him to pour his own alcoholic drinks as well as the failure to cut (McGregor's) access to alcoholic beverages off after he was overserved demonstrates a conscious disregard for the safety (of) patrons similarly situated to and including (the plaintiff),” the lawsuit says, according to <a href="https://frontofficesports.com/conor-mcgregor-miami-heat-assault-lawsuit/">Alex Schiffer of Front Office Sports</a>.</p><p>The lawsuit is asking for medical treatment costs, compensatory damages, and other relief from the Heat and McGregor, per Rothstein.</p><p>A civil jury in Ireland <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3136180" href="https://thescore.com/news/3136180">found</a> McGregor liable last November for sexually assaulting a woman in a Dublin hotel penthouse Dec. 9, 2018.</p>

Mixed martial arts fighter Conor McGregor outside the High Court in Dublin, where he is appearing for a personal injury case against him. Nikita Hand, who is also known as Nikita Ni Laimhin, alleges she was raped by McGregor in a Dublin hotel in December 2018. Picture date: Thursday November 21, 2024.

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McGregor sued over alleged sexual assault in 2023

Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers will forgo his senior season and declare for the 2025 NFL Draft, hi...

<p>Texas quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/166550" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/166550">Quinn Ewers</a> will forgo his senior season and declare for the 2025 NFL Draft, his agent, Ron Slavin, told <a href="https://x.com/PeteThamel/status/1879565776090550745">ESPN's Pete Thamel</a>.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="qme" dir="ltr">🤘🏼 <a href="https://t.co/V5H8sJbaWM">pic.twitter.com/V5H8sJbaWM</a></p>— Quinn Ewers (@QuinnEwers) <a href="https://twitter.com/QuinnEwers/status/1879566077887455646?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Ewers' decision comes at the deadline for eligible college players to declare their intention to go pro.</p><p>The Texas signal-caller led the Longhorns to the College Football Playoff during his final collegiate season, losing to Ohio State in the semifinals.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Ewers went 21-5 as a starter over his last two seasons with Texas, making the CFP in both years. The Longhorns went winless in the CFP in 2023 but notched two playoff victories in Ewers' final campaign over Clemson and Arizona State.</p><p>He passed for 3,472 yards with 31 touchdowns to 12 interceptions this past season. Ewers ends his Texas career with 27 wins in 35 starts and a total of 9,128 yards, 68 passing scores, and 24 picks.</p><p>Ewers joins a 2025 quarterback class that also includes <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/160938" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/160938">Shedeur Sanders</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/247" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/247">Cam Ward</a>, among others.</p>

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - DECEMBER 7: Quinn Ewers #3 of the Texas Longhorns passes during the first quarter against the Georgia Bulldogs in the 2024 SEC Championship at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on December 7, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia.

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Texas' Ewers declares for 2025 NFL Draft

Dallas Cowboys pass-rusher Micah Parsons was devastated to hear that the franchise would not be r...

<p>Dallas Cowboys pass-rusher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161667" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161667">Micah Parsons</a> was devastated to hear that the franchise would not be retaining head coach Mike McCarthy.</p><p>"(I'm) obviously very sad because of the relationships we had with coach McCarthy and everything he's done for our program," Parsons said Tuesday on "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qPYnS_NYoFA&amp;list=PLoqDIJHlyN3PWwUI1VDMbexYOQp2PtHur&amp;index=2">The Edge</a>" podcast. "Three straight 12-5 seasons, playoff appearances, and obviously an unfortunate year due to injuries and things like that. It is devastating.</p><p>"Coach Mike is a great father, great coach. One of the most winningest coaches. He's always been good to us as a unit, coaches, players. So, you know, losing a great coach like Mike hurts."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Cowboys quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/50470" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/50470">Dak Prescott</a> also said he was "bummed" when he heard the news, according to <a href="https://alldlls.com/dak-prescott-bummed-about-mike-mccarthy-cowboys-ouster/">Clarence Hill of All DLLS</a>.</p><p>After five seasons with McCarthy on the sideline, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones announced Monday that it "became mutually clear that it would be better for each of us to head in a different direction."</p><p>The Cowboys elected to have McCarthy coach out the final season of his contract in 2024 and could not come to an agreement ahead of Jan. 14 when his exclusive negotiating window with the franchise expired. McCarthy went 7-10 his final year, though Dallas was plagued by injuries. </p><p>Since parting ways with McCarthy, the Cowboys have been in contact with Pro Football Hall of Famer and current Colorado coach Deion Sanders. While Sanders <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3189132" href="https://thescore.com/news/3189132">called</a> the discussions "intriguing," he noted he loves coaching in Colorado. Dallas is also interested in former New York Jets boss Robert Saleh, according to <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/1879562534891778386">NFL Network's Ian Rapoport</a>.</p>

ARLINGTON, TX - JANUARY 05: Micah Parsons #11 of the Dallas Cowboys celebrates during an NFL football game against the Washington Commanders at AT&T Stadium on January 5, 2025 in Arlington, Texas.

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Parsons: It hurts to lose a great coach like McCarthy

The Indianapolis Colts will be part of the NFL's first-ever regular season game in Berlin, German...

<p>The Indianapolis Colts will be part of the NFL's first-ever regular season game in Berlin, Germany, the league announced Wednesday. </p><p>The Colts, who'll serve as the home team at Olympic Stadium, will discover their opponent when the NFL officially releases the 2025 schedule later this year.</p><p>"The NFL is making history in Berlin, and the Colts are proud to be part of this landmark event in one of the world's most historic cities," Colts owner Jim Irsay said in a statement. "The NFL has become a global brand, and we're looking forward to growing American football in Germany and expanding Colts Nation's footprint around the world."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Additionally, two NFL games will be held in London and one in Madrid during the 2025 season.</p><p>Five international games took place in 2024, with three in London and one in each of Munich and Sao Paulo.</p>

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - JANUARY 05: The Indianapolis Colts huddle up against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Lucas Oil Stadium on January 05, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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Colts to host NFL's 1st regular-season game in Berlin

Six teams suffered the bittersweet fate of making the postseason but failing to advance past the ...

<p>Six teams suffered the bittersweet fate of making the postseason but failing to advance past the first test.</p><p>Here's the biggest offseason priority for every franchise that was eliminated in the wild-card round.</p><h3>Los Angeles Chargers</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765159/cropped_GettyImages-2193461757.jpg?ts=1736808627" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765159/w220xh124_GettyImages-2193461757.jpg?ts=1736808627 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765159/w320xh180_GettyImages-2193461757.jpg?ts=1736808627 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765159/w640xh360_GettyImages-2193461757.jpg?ts=1736808627 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765159/w768xh432_GettyImages-2193461757.jpg?ts=1736808627 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765159/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2193461757.jpg?ts=1736808627 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Tim Warner / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Getting outside WR help</strong>: Saturday's playoff defeat exposed some flaws that Jim Harbaugh and Greg Roman managed to cover up for the majority of the year. Most notably, if the Chargers have to play catch-up football or need firepower, then other teams have them - especially Justin Herbert - dead to rights. Patching that up with some playmakers at wide receiver will be key in Harbaugh's second offseason.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>L.A. has the middle of the field solved with Ladd McConkey, who had 197 receiving yards in his playoff debut. The problem is the rest of the Chargers' receiving corps, which combined for two catches for 14 yards on 10 targets. Getting Herbert a boundary receiver would go a long way in giving this run-first offense more flavor and diversity.</p><h3>Pittsburgh Steelers</h3><p><strong>Figure out a long-term plan</strong>: It sounds like the Steelers are sticking with Mike Tomlin despite another one-and-done postseason. But the head coach's poor playoff record in recent years is indicative of a much bigger problem - there is no plan for how to move forward, especially at the quarterback position.</p><p>Bringing back 36-year-old Russell Wilson would likely result in the same outcome. So would signing a different veteran quarterback. Insanity is doing the same thing again and expecting a different outcome. If the Steelers want to reverse their postseason misfortune, they need to acknowledge that this team is a lot further than a piece or two away from competing with the AFC's elites. A true rebuild might be the fastest way to propel this franchise forward and give it the chance to select a long-term option under center.</p><h3>Denver Broncos</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765160/cropped_GettyImages-2182086339.jpg?ts=1736808680" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765160/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182086339.jpg?ts=1736808680 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765160/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182086339.jpg?ts=1736808680 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765160/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182086339.jpg?ts=1736808680 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765160/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182086339.jpg?ts=1736808680 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765160/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182086339.jpg?ts=1736808680 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">AAron Ontiveroz / Denver Post / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Filling out the rest of the offense</strong>: Bo Nix was a pleasant surprise, leading the Broncos to a 10-7 record as a rookie and their first playoff berth since 2015. With Sean Payton's franchise quarterback firmly cemented under center, the offensive guru's next step will be providing the quarterback with upgrades in the backfield and tight end.</p><p>Payton is no stranger to rostering high-quality running backs. Think of Reggie Bush, Deuce McAllister, Darren Sproles, Mark Ingram, and Alvin Kamara. But Denver didn't have that luxury in 2024, as impending free agent Javonte Williams led the team with only 513 yards on the ground and an inefficient 3.7 yards per carry. No Broncos tight end cracked 200 receiving yards, either. Whether it's in free agency or the draft (Ashton Jeanty, Tyler Warren), Payton's biggest order of business should be to get more pieces for his quarterback.</p><h3>Green Bay Packers</h3><p><strong>More veteran faces in the locker room</strong>: Matt LaFleur was asked postgame if the Packers need more veterans on the roster, and it's a fair question. Once again the league's youngest team to open the season, Green Bay appeared overmatched in the playoffs. While there are a number of serviceable-to-good players on this roster, the Packers need more veteran leadership to get over the hump.</p><p>There are a few places where a proven commodity could help out, none of which are more important than wide receiver. With Christian Watson's status already uncertain for 2025, the Packers head into next season with a group of solid but non-elite wideouts. Angling for a big free-agent wideout would make everyone's life easier, especially Jordan Love's. Cornerback is also going to be a priority with Jaire Alexander unhealthy and a cut candidate, while defensive line is another area that could use a veteran piece with former first-round pick Lukas Van Ness still struggling to break out.</p><h3>Tampa Bay Buccaneers</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765161/cropped_GettyImages-2193079951.jpg?ts=1736808736" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765161/w220xh124_GettyImages-2193079951.jpg?ts=1736808736 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765161/w320xh180_GettyImages-2193079951.jpg?ts=1736808736 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765161/w640xh360_GettyImages-2193079951.jpg?ts=1736808736 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765161/w768xh432_GettyImages-2193079951.jpg?ts=1736808736 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765161/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2193079951.jpg?ts=1736808736 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Kevin Sabitus / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Keep Liam Coen</strong>: Coen was a revelation for the Buccaneers in his first season as the team's offensive coordinator. Baker Mayfield set new career highs in completion percentage (71.4%) and touchdown passes (41), while the offense finished fourth in scoring and third in yardage. If Tampa Bay wants to build on its success, it can't let a coordinator like Coen walk out the door.</p><p>The question on everyone's mind is whether or not the Buccaneers should promote Coen to head coach at the expense of Todd Bowles. While the defensive-minded boss has taken Tampa Bay to the playoffs in each of his three seasons, the franchise only has one postseason win to show for it. The loss to the Washington Commanders highlighted the full Bowles experience, and it wasn't pretty at times. If Coen gets an offer elsewhere, the Bucs shouldn't hesitate to make their move, just like they did when Bruce Arians was pushed aside for Bowles in 2022.</p><h3>Minnesota Vikings</h3><p><strong>Figuring out what to do with Sam Darnold</strong>: The Vikings are at a crossroads after their 14-3 regular season was spoiled in the wild-card round. Do they stick with Sam Darnold, the quarterback who got them there, or turn the reins over to 10th overall pick J.J. McCarthy?</p><p>Darnold finally had a breakout year in 2024 under Kevin O'Connell's tutelage before regressing over the final two games of the season. Is that enough to scare the Vikings or any potential suitors? Minnesota's quarterback decision is compounded by the fact that it will be trying to maximize its compensation on the signal-caller who isn't selected. If the Vikings choose to go with McCarthy, will they franchise tag Darnold and perhaps trade him? Or will they disregard the season's conclusion and re-sign Darnold to an extension while trading McCarthy to the highest bidder? There are a number of ways Minnesota can go. The faster the front office gets the quarterback distraction settled, the better.</p>

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Offseason priorities for every NFL team eliminated in wild-card round

Colorado head coach Deion Sanders confirmed he spoke with Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones about ...

<p>Colorado head coach Deion Sanders confirmed he spoke with Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones about the NFL franchise's open coaching job on Monday.</p><p>"To hear from Jerry Jones is truly delightful, and it's intriguing," Sanders told <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/1879016515439071307">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>. "I love Jerry and believe in Jerry. After you hang up and process it and think about it, it’s intriguing. But I love Boulder and everything there is about our team, the coaches, our student body, and the community.”</p><p><a href="http://x.com/Schultz_Report/status/1878983770004689144">Jordan Schultz of Fox Sports</a> reported earlier Monday that there was mutual interest between the Cowboys and Sanders. A formal interview wasn't scheduled, but the two parties were expected to continue talking, a source told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/43403878/source-jerry-jones-talks-deion-sanders-cowboys-job">ESPN's Todd Archer</a>. Dallas also plans to interview other candidates.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Sanders spent five seasons of his playing career in Dallas from 1995-99. He was part of the Cowboys' last Super Bowl victory, which came during the 1995 season, and totalled 14 interceptions and four Pro Bowls during his time with the franchise.</p><p>The Hall of Fame cornerback has risen through the college coaching ranks in recent years. He began his career with a three-season stint at Jackson State before taking the Colorado job ahead of the 2023 campaign. He posted a 4-8 record in his first season as the Buffaloes' coach and went 9-4 in 2024.</p><p>Sanders shut down speculation about leaving Colorado in November, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3133705" href="https://thescore.com/news/3133705">saying</a> he's "happy" where his. However, he <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3184963" href="https://thescore.com/news/3184963">said</a> last week that he'd only consider leaving college for an NFL job if he had the chance to coach both his sons, Shedeur and Shilo.</p><p>The Cowboys' head coaching position became vacant after the franchise <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3188778" href="https://thescore.com/news/3188778">elected</a> to move on from Mike McCarthy on Monday. McCarthy spent five years in Dallas, during which time the franchise went 49-35 in regular-season play but only 1-3 in the postseason. The Cowboys went 7-10 in McCarthy's final season.</p><p>Dallas' next head coach will field a roster that's headlined by quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/50470" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/50470">Dak Prescott</a>, wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/120335" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/120335">CeeDee Lamb</a>, and pass-rusher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161667" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161667">Micah Parsons</a>.</p><p>It was previously rumored that Sanders' associates had reached out to the Las Vegas Raiders about their head coaching job, but the AFC West franchise <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3187940" href="https://thescore.com/news/3187940">reportedly</a> wasn't interested.</p>

BOULDER, COLORADO - SEPTEMBER 21: Head coach Deion Sanders of the Colorado Buffaloes walks on the field during the first quarter against the Baylor Bears at Folsom Field on September 21, 2024 in Boulder, Colorado.

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Cowboys, Deion Sanders speak about head coaching job

The Chicago Bears are expected to interview former Dallas Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy this w...

<p>The Chicago Bears are expected to interview former Dallas Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy this week, sources told <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/1878966647236829359">ESPN's Adam Schefter and Todd Archer</a>. </p><p>The New Orleans Saints are also expected to be interested in McCarthy, Schefter and Archer add.</p><p>The Bears interview is reportedly scheduled for as early as Wednesday. The Cowboys <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3188778" href="https://thescore.com/news/3188778">announced</a> Monday that McCarthy, whose contract expires Tuesday, won't return.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said it became "mutually clear that it would be better for each of us to head in a different direction" after discussing the franchise's future.</p><p>The Bears have shown interest in McCarthy since the season ended. Chicago <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3182953" href="https://thescore.com/news/3182953">reportedly</a> requested an interview with the 61-year-old while he was still under contract earlier in January, though the Cowboys denied the request.</p><p>McCarthy spent the past five seasons with the Cowboys, posting a 49-35 record. However, Dallas had limited postseason success under McCarthy, winning only one of its four playoff games.</p><p>The Cowboys also limped to a 7-10 record in 2024. The team endured injuries to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/50470" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/50470">Dak Prescott</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161667" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161667">Micah Parsons</a>, among others, throughout the campaign.</p><p>McCarthy previously won a Super Bowl while coaching another NFC North club, guiding the Green Bay Packers to a Lombardi Trophy during the 2010 season.</p><p>The Bears have been searching for a new head coach since firing Matt Eberflus in November, while the Saints are looking for a full-time replacement after terminating Dennis Allen midseason.</p>

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - DECEMBER 15: Head coach Mike McCarthy of the Dallas Cowboys looks on before the game against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium on December 15, 2024 in Charlotte, North Carolina.

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Report: Bears to interview McCarthy, Saints also interested

Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix admitted Monday that he played through three transverse process...

<p>Denver Broncos quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199735" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199735">Bo Nix</a> admitted Monday that he played through three transverse process fractures in his back during his rookie year that were sustained in the team's Week 12 matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders.</p><p>"Yeah, I got twisted up a little bit, had three process fractures. A lot of guys play with a lot of those kinds of things," Nix said, according to <a href="https://x.com/mikeklis9news/status/1878885368277217541">Mike Klis of 9News</a>.</p><p>Nix played nearly all of the Broncos' snaps after the injury. His only time off the field came when he was pulled at the end of a 38-0 blowout victory over the Kansas City Chiefs in the regular-season finale.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The rookie added that the team's bye week, which came two weeks after he sustained the back fractures, helped his recovery.</p><p>Nix, the No. 12 overall pick, ended the Broncos' playoff drought in his rookie season and posted a 10-7 record with 29 passing touchdowns, 12 interceptions, and four rushing scores.</p>

ORCHARD PARK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 12: Bo Nix #10 of the Denver Broncos looks to pass against the Buffalo Bills in the fourth quarter during the AFC Wild Card Playoffs at Highmark Stadium on January 12, 2025 in Orchard Park, New York.

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Broncos' Nix says he played through back fractures

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