Oscar Piastri has blown a 34-point lead over Lando Norris and is no longer leading the drivers' c...

<p>Oscar Piastri has blown a 34-point lead over Lando Norris and is no longer leading the drivers' championship. </p><p>The third-year driver's immense slump has left people wondering how it's all gone so wrong so quickly. Is it the pressure of the championship, the product of a conspiracy, or something more tangible and logical? While the weight of the title fight may be a factor, the truth of the matter lies in the data.</p><p>Piastri is simply not performing - and it's not completely unexpected.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>While he's only recently bottomed out, his post-summer break decline has been foreshadowed for quite a while. The Australian got off to a hot start, winning five of the first nine races with four poles. Since then, he's mustered two wins and one pole over 11 races.</p><p>In modern Formula 1, qualifying and track position is everything, and that's where Piastri's struggles originate - especially over the last handful of races.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Oscar Piastri's Qualifying in 2025" aria-label="Line chart" id="datawrapper-chart-wJ7Ac" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/wJ7Ac/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="876" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Since narrowly beating Norris to pole in Zandvoort, Piastri has been outqualified by his teammate in four of the last five races. On average, he's also been more than two-tenths of a second slower than Norris.</p><p><strong>Average pace difference in qualifying</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Span</th>
<th>Difference</th>
<th>Faster</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Australia through Zandvoort</td>
<td> 0.044%</td>
<td> Piastri</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Monza through Mexico</td>
<td> 0.231%</td>
<td> Norris</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Is the heat of the title fight finally melting Piastri? While the McLaren driver's crash in Baku could be considered a case of cracking under the lights, team principal Andrea Stella might have provided the actual explanation in Mexico: some of these tracks don't suit Piastri's strengths.</p><p>"I think in Austin and here, the conditions are such that the car slides a lot," Stella said, according to <a href="https://www.racefans.net/2025/10/26/piastri-unusually-far-behind-norris-due-to-low-grip-track-says-stella/">Keith Collantine of RaceFans</a>. "And I think this requires a particular familiarity with the car, with how you exploit the car, which possibly is something on which Oscar needs to still work a little bit."</p><p>Tracks such as Mexico and Austin, where there's less grip and it's a challenge to extract the maximum out of the tires, seem to be where Norris holds the biggest advantage over Piastri.</p><p>That was true in 2025 and has also been true in the past.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>Difference</th>
<th> Faster</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>2025 U.S. GP</td>
<td> 0.283s</td>
<td> Norris</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2024 U.S. GP</td>
<td> 0.620s</td>
<td> Norris</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2023 U.S. GP</td>
<td> 0.614s</td>
<td> Norris</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>Difference</th>
<th>Faster</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>2025 Mexico City GP</td>
<td> 0.588s</td>
<td> Norris</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2024 Mexico City GP</td>
<td> 1.092s*</td>
<td> Norris</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2023 Mexico City GP</td>
<td> NA**</td>
<td> NA</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>* Q1 times used as Piastri was eliminated in Q1<br>** Norris did not set a representative lap for comparison in 2023</em></p><p>Sadly for Piastri, it might be a few more races before the calendar swings back in his favor. While Brazil will be a coin flip, it's historically been a good track for Norris, who took pole last season in the rain and got a podium in 2023. Las Vegas might not be tailor-made for the McLaren car, but after that comes Qatar, where Piastri has strung together back-to-back podiums.</p><p>The toughest part of Piastri's defense was always going to be the latter stages of the season - not only because of the mounting pressure of a championship, but also due to a gauntlet of tracks where he's struggled in the past.</p>

MEXICO CITY, MEXICO - OCTOBER 26: Oscar Piastri of Australia and McLaren walks the paddock during the F1 Grand Prix of Mexico at Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez on October 26, 2025 in Mexico City, Mexico.

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The Washington Commanders won't have Terry McLaurin for Sunday's matchup against the Seattle Seah...

<p>The Washington Commanders won't have <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/87889" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/87889">Terry McLaurin</a> for Sunday's matchup against the Seattle Seahawks after he aggravated his quad injury, head coach Dan Quinn announced Wednesday, according to <a href="https://x.com/NickiJhabvala/status/1983614689029583061">Nicki Jhabvala of The Athletic</a>.</p><p>McLaurin returned from a four-game absence in Monday's 28-7 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs before experiencing the setback. The two-time Pro Bowl receiver made three catches for 54 yards and a touchdown.</p><p>"This is not something that will knock (McLaurin) out for a long time, we hope," Quinn <a href="https://x.com/NickiJhabvala/status/1983616230130119126">said</a>. "But we're comfortable with where we're at."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>A positive update for the Commanders is the likely return of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199756" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199756">Jayden Daniels</a>. The second-year pro missed Monday's contest due to a hamstring injury, but Quinn <a href="https://x.com/NickiJhabvala/status/1983614345864212862">said</a> the quarterback is expected to practice in full this week. He's missed three games this season with knee and hamstring injuries.</p><p>McLaurin and Daniels have only played together in two of the team's eight games this year.</p><p>Washington enters Week 9 with a 3-5 record following three straight losses.</p>

GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN - SEPTEMBER 11: Terry McLaurin #17 of the Washington Commanders warms up prior to the NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers on Thursday Sept. 11, 2025 in Green Bay, Wis.

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McLaurin to miss SNF vs. Seahawks due to quad injury

The Detroit Lions and star pass-rusher Aidan Hutchinson have agreed to a four-year, $180-million ...

<p>The Detroit Lions and star pass-rusher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174006" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174006">Aidan Hutchinson</a> have agreed to a four-year, $180-million extension that contains $141 million in total guarantees, his agent Mike McCartney told <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/1983555067925147669">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>.</p><p>The guaranteed money is the most ever for a non-quarterback, according to <a href="https://x.com/TomPelissero/status/1983555173353234737">NFL Network's Tom Pelissero</a>.</p><p>Hutchinson's new deal is worth $45 million per season, which only trails Micah Parsons ($46.5 million per year) for the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history, according to <a href="https://overthecap.com/position/edge-rusher">Over The Cap</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Hutchinson's extension is $4 million more annually than <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/74678" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/74678">T.J. Watt</a>'s lucrative contract signed over the offseason and $5 million per year more than <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/87669" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/87669">Myles Garrett</a>'s extension.</p><p>The second overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, Hutchinson has quickly blossomed into one of the league's most premier edge rushers, as he's recorded 34.5 sacks through 46 career games.</p><p>Hutchinson is in the midst of a tremendous comeback season after his 2024 campaign was cut short due to a broken fibula and tibia. He's put up six sacks and a league-leading four forced fumbles through seven games.</p><p>His best season came in 2023, when he was named to the Pro Bowl after an 11.5-sack campaign.</p><p>Detroit is off to a 5-2 start with a defense that ranks 11th in points allowed and eighth in yardage allowed.</p>

KANSAS CITY, MO - OCTOBER 12: Detroit Lions defensive end Aidan Hutchinson (97) in the second quarter of an NFL game between the Detroit Lions and Kansas City Chiefs on October 12, 2025 at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, MO.

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Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Flacco is nursing an AC joint sprain in his throwing shoulder,...

<p>Cincinnati Bengals quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/2945" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/2945">Joe Flacco</a> is nursing an AC joint sprain in his throwing shoulder, leaving his availability uncertain for Sunday's game against the Chicago Bears, sources told <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/1983545470774374526">NFL Network's Ian Rapoport</a>.</p><p>Flacco briefly exited last week's loss to the New York Jets due to the injury before returning to action. If he can't go versus Chicago, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/93471" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/93471">Jake Browning</a> would be expected to start.</p><p>Head coach Zac Taylor said Wednesday that Flacco has a 50-50 chance to play, according to <a href="https://x.com/PBrennanENQ/status/1983579531869929561">Pat Brennan of The Cincinnati Enquirer</a>. He added that the veteran won't practice Wednesday.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Taylor also mentioned that although the injury is "painful," Flacco wants to suit up, <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/1983580135396606420">Rapoport</a> adds.</p><p>Flacco has filled in moderately well since Cincinnati acquired him in a trade with the Cleveland Browns. He's led the Bengals to one win in three starts, but they've scored 33 and 38 points, respectively, the last two weeks. The 40-year-old has thrown for seven touchdowns against zero interceptions with the team.</p><p>Browning has an 0-3 record as a starter this season with six touchdowns to eight interceptions.</p><p>The Bengals are 3-5 and trying to hang on in the AFC playoff race in hopes of a late-season return from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97638" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97638">Joe Burrow</a>, who had toe surgery in September.</p>

CINCINNATI, OH - OCTOBER 26: Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Flacco (16) jogs off the field during the game against the New York Jets and the Cincinnati Bengals on October 26, 2025, at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati, OH.

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While Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin admitted he's not happy with the defense's perfo...

<p>While Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin admitted he's not happy with the defense's performance, he says those negative feelings don't extend to the man in charge of the unit, defensive coordinator Teryl Austin.</p><p>"I've known Teryl a long time," Tomlin said Tuesday, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/46758963/mike-tomlin-backs-teryl-austin-amid-steelers-defensive-woes">ESPN's Brooke Pryor</a>. "He's very capable. He's very thorough. I've largely been pleased with his work, but certainly he and I are not pleased with where we are right now from a defensive unit perspective, and so we're just going to keep working."</p><p>The Steelers' defense allowed a combined 68 points over the last two games, both resulting in losses. In Sunday's 35-25 defeat to the Green Bay Packers, Pittsburgh surrendered 28 second-half points. The Steelers allowed 33 points to the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/2945" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/2945">Joe Flacco</a>-led Cincinnati Bengals - including 16 points in the second half - the week prior. Flacco and Packers quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/104659" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/104659">Jordan Love</a> combined for 702 passing yards, six touchdowns, and no interceptions over those two games.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Tomlin said taking over play-calling duties from Austin is "not on the table as we sit here today."</p><p>Pittsburgh's defense has been one of the major disappointments of the 2025 season thus far. The Steelers haven't gotten a return on their investment after adding playmakers such as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/74546" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/74546">Jalen Ramsey</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/53740" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/53740">Darius Slay</a> into a group that already featured <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/74678" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/74678">T.J. Watt</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/15323" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/15323">Cameron Heyward</a>.</p><p>The Steelers' defense ranks 30th in yardage allowed and last in passing defense. </p><p>Pittsburgh is 4-3 heading into Sunday's matchup with the high-octane Indianapolis Colts, who are 7-1 and averaging a league-leading 33.8 points per game.</p>

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - OCTOBER 26: Head coach Mike Tomlin of the Pittsburgh Steelers walks the field during an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers at Acrisure Stadium on October 26, 2025 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

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The Toronto Blue Jays have no plans to allow Shohei Ohtani to swing a bat after the Dodgers star ...

<p>The Toronto Blue Jays have no plans to allow <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9519" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9519">Shohei Ohtani</a> to swing a bat after the Dodgers star enjoyed a historic night at the plate in an 18-inning 6-5 victory for Los Angeles on Monday.</p><p>Ohtani reached base a record nine times in Game 3, the most by a player in a single game since 1942. The Blue Jays walked Ohtani in each of his last five plate appearances - including four intentional walks - after he collected two doubles and two home runs in his first four at-bats.</p><p>Jays manager John Schneider confirmed postgame that the Jays intend to continue walking Ohtani, according to <a href="https://x.com/TSN_Sports/status/1983069074989908347">TSN</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Toronto opted to start taking the bat out of Ohtani's hands after the star slugger hit a game-tying home run in the seventh inning off <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9732" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9732">Seranthony Domínguez</a>.</p><p>"We're trying to pitch around him," Schneider said of the game-tying blast, which occurred with the bases empty and one out. "You trust Seranthony to make pitches to do that. Sometimes for pitchers it's hard to do that when you're kind of trying to throw a ball and didn't put it where you want to put it.</p><p>"(Ohtani) had a great game, he's a great player, but I think after that, you just kind of take the bat out of his hands."</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">SHOHEI OHTANI'S SECOND HOMER OF THE NIGHT<br><br>TIE GAME! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WORLDSERIES?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WORLDSERIES</a> <a href="https://t.co/eA6h6saLnV">pic.twitter.com/eA6h6saLnV</a></p>— MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1983004680809599341?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The Dodgers were unable to cash in on any of Ohtani's free passes following his seventh-inning blast. But the 18-inning classic was eventually decided when <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1412" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1412">Freddie Freeman</a> hit a walk-off home run to give Los Angeles the victory and a 2-1 lead in the series.</p>

Los Angeles, CA - October 27: Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers rounds third base and scores on a single by teammate Freddie Freeman (not pictured) against the Toronto Blue Jays in the fifth inning of game 3 of a World Series baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Monday, October 27, 2025.

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Buffalo Bills defensive tackle Ed Oliver will be out indefinitely after undergoing surgery for a ...

<p>Buffalo Bills defensive tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/107922" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/107922">Ed Oliver</a> will be out indefinitely after undergoing surgery for a torn bicep, head coach Sean McDermott announced Monday, according to <a href="https://x.com/JoeBuscaglia/status/1982902062330298782">Joe Buscaglia of The Athletic</a>.</p><p>There is a chance Oliver is back for the playoffs, according to <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/1982902620835787202">NFL Network's Ian Rapoport</a>.</p><p>Oliver suffered the injury in Sunday's 40-9 win over the Carolina Panthers and was unable to finish the game.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 27-year-old also missed time earlier this season with an ankle issue. However, Oliver has been a force when on the field. He's produced three sacks, seven tackles for loss, and one forced fumble in three games played this year.</p><p>The injury bug has feasted on the Bills at defensive tackle. In addition to Oliver, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/46664" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/46664">DaQuan Jones</a> has missed the last two weeks with a calf injury and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/210036" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/210036">T.J. Sanders</a> is on injured reserve with a knee injury.</p><p>The Bills are 5-2 and their defense ranks ninth in points allowed (20.9 points per game).</p>

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - OCTOBER 13: Ed Oliver #91 of the Buffalo Bills warms up prior to the NFL 2025 game between Buffalo Bills and Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on October 13, 2025 in Atlanta, United States.

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The Jacksonville Jaguars have "no plans" to move wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. despite his name ...

<p>The Jacksonville Jaguars have "no plans" to move wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199743" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199743">Brian Thomas Jr.</a> despite his name being involved in trade buzz, head coach Liam Coen told reporters Monday, including <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/46746141/liam-coen-jaguars-not-trading-second-year-wr-brian-thomas-jr">ESPN's Michael DiRocco</a>.</p><p>It was previously <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3378091" href="https://thescore.com/news/3378091">reported</a> that the Jaguars were listening to trade calls about the receiver, though a deal was considered unlikely.</p><p>Thomas enjoyed a productive rookie season in which he was named to the Pro Bowl after catching 87 passes for 1,282 yards and 10 touchdowns. However, his production has dropped off in his sophomore year. The former first-round pick is averaging 52.1 yards per game, down from 75.4 yards as a rookie.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Thomas' 55 targets and 365 receiving yards still lead the Jaguars.</p><p>Jacksonville is 4-3 and second in the AFC South behind the 7-1 Indianapolis Colts.</p>

JACKSONVILLE, FL - OCTOBER 06: Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. (7) runs out one the field before the game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Jacksonville Jaguars on October 6, 2025 at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, Fl.

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Texas quarterback Arch Manning is in the concussion protocol and was unable to practice Monday, h...

<p>Texas quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/184393" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/184393">Arch Manning</a> is in the concussion protocol and was unable to practice Monday, head coach Steve Sarkisian announced, according to <a href="https://x.com/PeteThamel/status/1982853668291653668">ESPN's Pete Thamel</a>.</p><p>Manning suffered the injury on a running play in overtime during Texas' 45-38 win over Mississippi State. He had a season-high 346 passing yards before exiting, in addition to three touchdowns and one interception.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Arch Manning hurt running the ball in OT <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Texas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Texas</a> <a href="https://t.co/mPcGoVkcOm">pic.twitter.com/mPcGoVkcOm</a></p>— Connie Carberg (@ConnieScouts) <a href="https://twitter.com/ConnieScouts/status/1982236325836189993?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 26, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/166084" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/166084">Matthew Caldwell</a> came into the game at quarterback and put the finishing touches on the Longhorns' victory.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Texas, which was ranked 20th in the latest AP Poll, faces No. 9 Vanderbilt this Saturday. Caldwell would likely get the start if Manning doesn't clear the concussion protocol.</p><p>Manning has completed 60.9% of his passes this season for 15 touchdowns to six interceptions. </p>

STARKVILLE, MISSISSIPPI - OCTOBER 25: Arch Manning #16 of the Texas Longhorns warms up before the game against the Mississippi State Bulldogs at Davis Wade Stadium on October 25, 2025 in Starkville, Mississippi.

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The Atlanta Falcons won't have wide receiver Drake London or quarterback Michael Penix Jr. for Su...

<p>The Atlanta Falcons won't have wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/173995" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/173995">Drake London</a> or quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199749" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199749">Michael Penix Jr.</a> for Sunday's game against the Miami Dolphins.</p><p>Without Penix, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/14947" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/14947">Kirk Cousins</a> will get the start at quarterback.</p><p>London, who is dealing with a hip injury, didn't practice Wednesday or Thursday but was a limited participant during Friday's session. Penix suffered a bone bruise in his left knee during last week's 20-10 loss to the San Francisco 49ers.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>London has caught 38 passes for 469 yards and three touchdowns this season. Meanwhile, Penix has thrown five touchdowns to three interceptions while completing 61% of his passes.</p><p>First-round pass-rusher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/209933" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209933">Jalon Walker</a> will also be inactive due to a groin injury.</p><p>The Falcons enter Sunday with a 3-3 record.</p>

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 19: Drake London #5 of the Atlanta Falcons stands on the field prior to an NFL football game against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium on October 19, 2025 in Santa Clara, California.

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Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson is officially questionable for Sunday's game against t...

<p>Baltimore Ravens quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97162" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97162">Lamar Jackson</a> is officially questionable for Sunday's game against the Chicago Bears. </p><p>Jackson, who missed the last two contests with a hamstring injury, was a full participant in Friday's practice after being limited in Wednesday's and Thursday's sessions.</p><p>Ravens head coach John Harbaugh said earlier in October that he expected the two-time league MVP to return versus the Bears.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Baltimore started <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/65598" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/65598">Cooper Rush</a> in the two games Jackson missed, losing both. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/105226" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/105226">Tyler Huntley</a> is expected to start if Jackson can't play Sunday, with the club demoting Rush to third-string quarterback.</p><p>The Ravens sit last in the AFC North with a 1-5 record.</p>

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - SEPTEMBER 28: Lamar Jackson #8 of the Baltimore Ravens sits on the sidelines during the fourth quarter of the game against the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium on September 28, 2025 in Kansas City, Missouri.""

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Lamar questionable vs. Bears after fully practicing Friday

The NFL fined the New York Giants $200,000 for violating its concussion protocol during quarterba...

<p><span style="margin:0px; padding:0px; text-align:left">The NFL fined the New York Giants $200,000 for violating its concussion protocol during quarterback <a target="_blank" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209911">Jaxson Dart</a>'s evaluation in the blue medical tent in Week 6 against the Philadelphia Eagles on Oct. 9.</span></p><p>Additionally, the league fined Giants head coach Brian Daboll $100,000 and running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/210219" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/210219">Cam Skattebo</a> $15,000 for their involvement in the incident. Daboll and Skattebo entered the medical tent while Dart was being evaluated, prompting a joint review by the NFL and NFLPA of the team's handling of concussion protocols.</p><p>"The NFL and NFLPA concluded that the Giants violated the protocol when head coach Brian Daboll and running back Cam Skattebo entered the medical tent and spoke with Mr. Dart before his evaluation was complete, creating the perception that they were interfering with Dart's exam," the league's statement said. "While the parties agreed that coach Daboll's and Mr. Skattebo's actions had no actual impact on the exam or the care that Mr. Dart received, their conduct was inconsistent with and demonstrated a disregard for the concussion protocol's requirements and therefore constituted a violation."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Here were the events of the Thursday night game that resulted in today’s fines for the Giants: <a href="https://t.co/fGxj39dku0">pic.twitter.com/fGxj39dku0</a></p>— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdamSchefter/status/1981767908842725420?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The league added that all "team medical staff and unaffiliated medical providers properly followed all of the steps required by the collectively bargained and administered concussion protocol in their evaluation" of Dart.</p><p>Dart passed the concussion test and returned to the game, which ended in a 34-17 victory for New York.</p>

ORCHARD PARK, NEW YORK - AUGUST 09: Jaxson Dart #6 of the New York Giants and head coach Brian Daboll speak during the second quarter of an NFL Preseason 2025 game between New York Giants and Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium on August 09, 2025 in Orchard Park, New York.

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Giants, Daboll fined for Dart concussion protocol violation

The Minnesota Vikings activated running back Aaron Jones off injured reserve for Thursday's match...

<p>The Minnesota Vikings activated running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/74334" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/74334">Aaron Jones</a> off injured reserve for Thursday's matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers.</p><p>Jones has been sidelined since Week 2 with a hamstring injury.</p><p>The veteran had a slow start to his season prior to missing time, racking up only 46 yards on 13 carries through two games.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>With Jones sidelined, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174345" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174345">Jordan Mason</a> has stepped up to fill the void at the position. Mason has rushed for 380 yards and four touchdowns in six contests.</p><p>The Vikings entered Week 8 with a 3-3 record and sit last in the NFC North. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/58916" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/58916">Carson Wentz</a> has started the last four games for Minnesota due to an injury to quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199765" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199765">J.J. McCarthy</a>. The team has gone 2-2 with Wentz under center.</p>

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - SEPTEMBER 14: Minnesota Vikings running back Aaron Jones (33) runs with the ball during a NFL game between the Minnesota Vikings and Atlanta Falcons on September 14, 2025, at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, MN.

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Vikings' Jones active for TNF vs. Chargers

For most of the summer, there was more talk about who Max Verstappen would relinquish his title t...

<p>For most of the summer, there was more talk about who Max Verstappen would relinquish his title to - Oscar Piastri or Lando Norris - than if he would remain world champion.</p><p>However, Verstappen had other plans. It's almost as if he just decided one day that he wouldn't go down without a fight. He's back in the mix and a legitimate contender for the drivers' championship again.</p><p>Verstappen trailed Piastri by as much as 104 points after the Dutch Grand Prix, but he's reduced his deficit to 40 after winning three of the last four races. An achievement that once seemed improbable now looks to be within striking distance with five races and two sprints remaining.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="2025 Drivers' Championship" aria-label="Line chart" id="datawrapper-chart-ahluF" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/ahluF/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="812" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>What would it really take for Verstappen to become a five-time champion?</p><p>Below, we project the final result of the title race by using the percentage of points scored in recent races and applying the trend to the 141 points still available across the final five races and two sprints.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Using trajectory of last 4 races" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-9ZdeN" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/9ZdeN/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="220" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Using trajectory of last 5 races" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-02KJ2" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/02KJ2/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="220" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Using trajectory of last 6 races" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-3sLLB" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/3sLLB/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="220" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Using trajectory of last 7 races" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-gW5cF" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/gW5cF/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="220" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>The above simulations produce two conclusions. If Verstappen maintains his dominant form until the end of the season while the McLaren drivers continue to trip over themselves, then the championship will stay Dutch. But if Piastri can rediscover even a fraction of his edge from earlier this summer, the No. 1 will likely come off the Red Bull car.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="2025 remaining F1 races" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-z9Zxr" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/z9Zxr/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="274" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Verstappen winning the drivers' championship is going to require something almost unthinkable. At the same time, winning just one race - let alone three of four - was inconceivable even to Verstappen himself this summer. And the concept of a three-way title fight was pure fiction until one driver forced his way back into the conversation despite the odds.</p>

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How realistic is a Verstappen 2025 F1 championship?

Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans will be out for most of the season after breaking h...

<p>Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver <a href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/51141">Mike Evans</a> will be out for most of the season after breaking his clavicle in Monday's 24-9 loss to the Detroit Lions, head coach Todd Bowles announced postgame, according to <a href="https://x.com/HollowayNFLN/status/1980462030449700999">NFL Network's Clayton Holloway</a>.</p><p>Evans suffered the injury while attempting to catch a pass in the second quarter. He was carted to the locker room and initially ruled out with a shoulder injury and concussion.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bucs?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bucs</a> WR Mike Evans suffered a concussion and a shoulder injury and is done for the night. <a href="https://t.co/YjGywTNONZ">pic.twitter.com/YjGywTNONZ</a> <a href="https://t.co/pDx2Nr2r0C">https://t.co/pDx2Nr2r0C</a></p>— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) <a href="https://twitter.com/MySportsUpdate/status/1980429723969941999?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>He failed to catch any of his four targets before exiting Monday.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The contest was Evans' first back in uniform since sustaining a hamstring injury in Week 3. The 32-year-old caught 14 passes for 140 yards and one touchdown prior to being sidelined.</p><p>The injury will almost certainly end Evans' streak of 11 straight seasons with 1,000-plus receiving yards. </p><p>Monday's loss dropped the Buccaneers to 5-2.</p>

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - OCTOBER 20: Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is helped off the field after an injury during the first half of the game against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on October 20, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan.

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Bucs' Evans suffers broken clavicle in MNF loss to Lions

The longest-tenured player in Philadelphia Eagles history is rejoining the team.  Defensive linem...

<p>The longest-tenured player in Philadelphia Eagles history is rejoining the team.</p><p>Defensive lineman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/14840" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/14840">Brandon Graham</a> is coming out of retirement to return to the Eagles. Graham finalized a contract and will be back with Philadelphia this week.</p><p>Graham confirmed his return Tuesday on the latest episode of the "Brandon Graham Unblocked" podcast.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I'm back one more time," Graham said. "I'm excited. No expectations, just trying to help the team."</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">One last ride 💚<br><br>Brandon Graham is returning to the Eagles <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FlyEaglesFly?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FlyEaglesFly</a> <a href="https://t.co/GyaVuxMEnA">pic.twitter.com/GyaVuxMEnA</a></p>— PHLY Sports (@PHLY_Sports) <a href="https://twitter.com/PHLY_Sports/status/1980619786519523503?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The 37-year-old retired after the Eagles won Super Bowl LIX against the Kansas City Chiefs earlier this year. The victory gave Graham his second Super Bowl ring as a member of the franchise. </p><p>The Eagles are in desperate need of pass-rushing help following the retirement of <a href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/72406">Za'Darius Smith</a> and the injury to <a href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188182">Nolan Smith</a>.</p><p>Graham racked up three sacks in 11 games in a rotational role for Philadelphia last year. </p><p>A one-time Pro Bowler, Graham is three seasons removed from a career-high 11-sack campaign in 2022.</p><p>Philadelphia is first in the NFC East with a 5-2 record.</p>

NEW ORLEANS, LA - FEBRUARY 09: Brandon Graham #55 of the Philadelphia Eagles walks off the field after warmups prior to Super Bowl LIX against the Kansas City Chiefs at Caesars Superdome on February 9, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

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Graham coming out of retirement to rejoin Eagles

Breece Hall's name has popped up in trade whispers again, but once again New York Jets head coach...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174033" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174033">Breece Hall</a>'s name has popped up in trade whispers again, but once again New York Jets head coach Aaron Glenn said the running back isn't going anywhere. </p><p>"They're rumors," Glenn said Wednesday, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/46605462/jets-aaron-glenn-reiterates-want-breece-hall-traded">ESPN's Rich Cimini</a>. "I still feel the same way."</p><p>During the offseason, Glenn put to bed any possibility of trading Hall after he was initially mentioned in trade rumors. The running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3299217" href="https://thescore.com/news/3299217">told reporters</a> in June that Glenn personally called him and said he wanted him on the team.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Hall recently caused a stir after making an Instagram post with "#Free20" in the caption. However, he said Wednesday that it had nothing to do with wanting to be traded.</p><p>"Nah, it's referencing, like, being in the moment, being in the game. I'm ready for whatever," he explained.</p><p>Hall is averaging a career-high 68.3 rushing yards per game this season with 410 yards through six games. However, the Jets' 0-6 record makes them potential sellers ahead of the Nov. 4 trade deadline.</p>

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - OCTOBER 05: Breece Hall #20 of the New York Jets runs during the game against the Dallas Cowboys on October 5, 2025 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

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Jets' Glenn shuts down Hall trade buzz: 'They're rumors'

Oregon State fired head coach Trent Bray following an 0-7 start to the season, the school announc...

<p>Oregon State fired head coach Trent Bray following an 0-7 start to the season, the school announced Sunday.</p><p>"I want to thank coach Bray for the energy and determination he brought to the role. A former student-athlete, proud graduate, and dedicated mentor, Trent's connection to Oregon State runs deep - he will always be a Beaver," athletic director Scott Barnes said in a statement.</p><p>Barnes called it a "difficult decision" to part ways with Bray but added that the "results on the field were not acceptable."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Robb Akey, who's in his first year on the Beavers' coaching staff following six seasons as Central Michigan's defensive coordinator, will be elevated to interim head coach. </p><p>Bray's buyout will be paid with donor-generated funds, according to the school.</p><p>Bray held an overall record of 5-14 as the Beavers' coach. He took the job after the 2023 season to succeed Jonathan Smith, who left for the Michigan State head coaching job.</p><p>Bray's dismissal comes after Wake Forest defeated Oregon State in a 39-14 blowout Saturday. Five of the Beavers' seven losses this season have been by at least eight points.</p><p>The Beavers are averaging 17.7 points per game while allowing 35.6 points per contest.</p>

CORVALLIS, OREGON - SEPTEMBER 26: Head coach Trent Bray of the Oregon State Beavers looks onto the field during the second half against the Houston Cougars at Reser Stadium on September 26, 2025 in Corvallis, Oregon.

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Oregon State fires Bray after 0-7 start

Chicago Cubs outfielder Kyle Tucker says he isn't sure what the future holds for him following hi...

<p>Chicago Cubs outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8173" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8173">Kyle Tucker</a> says he isn't sure what the future holds for him following his team's elimination in the National League Division Series by the Milwaukee Brewers on Saturday.</p><p>"We'll see what happens," Tucker, who is scheduled to be a free agent, said Saturday, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/46570358/kyle-tucker-unsure-cubs-return-free-agency-looms">ESPN</a>. "I don't know what the future is going to hold. If not, it was an honor playing with all these guys and I wish everyone the best of luck, whether it's playing next year or not with them. It's a really fun group to be a part of."</p><p>The Cubs traded for Tucker ahead of the 2025 season in a deal with the Houston Astros. He was named an All-Star for the fourth consecutive year, but injuries hampered his debut season in Chicago. He played in 136 games, missing time due to a fractured hand and calf strain, but compiled 22 home runs and 73 RBIs.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 28-year-old added that he doesn't know whether the Cubs will have an edge in free agency. </p><p>"I was more worried about the game tonight and everything," Tucker reasoned. "I'll kind of get through this today and worry about that a little later."</p><p>Tucker has hit more than 20 home runs in each of the last five seasons.</p>

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 9: Kyle Tucker #30 of the Chicago Cubs watches his ball in flight after hitting a solo home run in the seventh inning during game four of the National League Division Series against the Milwaukee Brewers at Wrigley Field on October 9, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Tucker noncommittal on return to Cubs: 'We'll see'

Penn State quarterback Drew Allar will miss the remainder of the season with an injury, coach Jam...

<p>Penn State quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/171465" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/171465">Drew Allar</a> will miss the remainder of the season with an injury, coach James Franklin announced following the Nittany Lions' 22-21 loss Saturday to Northwestern, according to <a href="https://x.com/EvanRGSmith/status/1977151163767120210">Evan Smith of the Daily Collegian</a>.</p><p>Allar was carted to the locker room in the game's final minutes after appearing to suffer a lower leg injury on a running play.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Drew Allar is being carted into the locker room after this tackle. <a href="https://t.co/552cTxxZoE">pic.twitter.com/552cTxxZoE</a></p>— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) <a href="https://twitter.com/CFBONFOX/status/1977142639352070333?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Allar completed 13 of 20 pass attempts for 137 yards with no touchdowns and one interception before exiting. He also had six carries for 25 yards and a touchdown.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The quarterback's senior year will end with eight passing touchdowns and three interceptions. However, Penn State struggled to live up to its preseason expectations as Saturday's loss dropped it to 3-3.</p><p>Allar entered the 2025 season with 49 touchdown passes to just 10 interceptions over the 2023 and 2024 campaigns, along with 10 rushing scores.</p><p>Allar is considered to be a potential top prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft.</p>

UNIVERSITY PARK, PA - OCTOBER 11: Penn State Nittany Lions Quarterback Drew Allar (15) runs with the ball during the first half of the College Football game between the Northwestern Wildcats and the Penn State Nittany Lions on October 11, 2025, at Beaver Stadium in University Park, PA.

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Penn State's Allar out for season with leg injury

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