Inside the Georgia-Alabama Rivalry: Exclusive Insights from Coaches and Scouts

The highly anticipated Georgia vs. Alabama showdown brings two top-10 college football teams together once again, with NFL scouts closely watching. Georgia Bulldogs are favored due to overall talent, including quarterback Carson Beck and defensive star Mykel Williams, but Alabama Crimson Tide's dynamic quarterback Jalen Milroe could be the X-factor. Injuries and key performances will determine whether Alabama can pull off an upset in this crucial SEC rivalry game.

Georgia-Alabama Showdown: Coaches and Scouts Break Down Key Matchup

Ever since Tua Tagovailoa led Alabama to a stunning victory over Georgia in the 2018 national championship game, the rivalry between these two powerhouse programs has reached new heights. Now, as Georgia and Alabama prepare to clash for the seventh consecutive time with both teams ranked in the top 10, the stakes are as high as ever. Georgia is ranked No. 2, and Alabama is No. 4, with both programs producing elite NFL talent in recent years. NFL scouts and coaches are gearing up for a game that could shape the future of these programs.

NFL Talent: Georgia vs. Alabama

Both Georgia and Alabama have been factories for NFL talent, with Alabama producing 18 first-round draft picks in the past five years and Georgia contributing 13. This year's matchup will be watched closely by 17 NFL teams, sending 23 scouts to assess the players. Georgia, with its deep roster of draft prospects, is considered by many scouts to have more overall talent.

According to one scout, Georgia could have as many as 11 offensive players drafted this year, including standout quarterback Carson Beck, safety Malaki Starks, and edge rusher Mykel Williams. However, scouts caution that while Georgia is stacked with talent, it lacks the elite, game-changing players of recent years.

Alabama, on the other hand, is undergoing some changes. With new head coach Kalen DeBoer at the helm, the team is full of fresh faces and transfers. Alabama's roster still boasts talent, including guard Tyler Booker and linebacker Jihaad Campbell, but the Tide is not as dominant as in past seasons.

Coaches’ Predictions: Georgia Favored, But Watch Milroe

The majority of coaches and scouts favor Georgia in this matchup, citing the Bulldogs' overall talent and consistency. However, Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe could be the X-factor. Milroe, who played a crucial role in last year's SEC title win over Georgia, is seen as one of the hardest players to tackle in college football. If Georgia struggles to contain Milroe, Alabama could make this a closer game than expected.

One assistant coach commented, "If Georgia can't tackle Milroe, they'll have a hard day." Milroe’s ability to use his legs and make plays outside of the pocket could give Alabama an edge if the game remains close.

Key Injuries: Mykel Williams Questionable

Georgia’s defense could face a significant challenge if star defensive lineman Mykel Williams isn’t fully healthy. Williams is questionable for the game, and his absence would be a major loss for Georgia, especially in trying to contain Milroe. Without Williams at 100%, Alabama's offense could find more success against the Bulldogs' defense.

  X-Factors to Watch  

For Georgia, linebacker Jalon Walker has generated a lot of buzz for his versatility. He plays both inside linebacker and edge rusher, a combination scouts say is rare. Walker’s impact could be crucial in containing Milroe, as Georgia’s defense will need to make key stops.

For Alabama, freshman wide receiver Ryan Williams has been one of the breakout stars of the season. Despite being just 17 years old, Williams leads the SEC in yards per catch and has drawn comparisons to former Alabama standout DeVonta Smith.

  Final Thoughts  

With both teams boasting top-tier talent and NFL scouts watching closely, this game will be a defining moment in the season for both programs. While Georgia may have the talent advantage, Alabama's ability to keep it close will likely depend on Milroe’s playmaking ability and the health of Georgia’s defensive stars.

  This matchup is sure to be a thrilling chapter in the storied Georgia-Alabama rivalry.  

Jetsvs Patriots: Aaron Rodgers Shines in Triumphant Return, Jets Dominate Patriots at MetLife Stadium

In his last game at MetLife Stadium, Aaron Rodgers only played four plays before injuring his Achilles, which ended his season in Week 1 of 2023. On Thursday, over a year later, he returned to the field as a New York Jet and led his team to a solid 24-3 victory over the New England Patriots.

Rodgers, now 40, moved well during the game, escaping defenders and throwing effectively. He completed 27 out of 35 passes for 281 yards, threw two touchdowns—one to Allen Lazard and one to Garrett Wilson—and didn’t throw any interceptions. He also ran the ball three times for 18 yards, while Breece Hall scored another touchdown for the Jets.

Notably, Garrett Wilson became the first wide receiver drafted in the first round to catch a touchdown pass from Rodgers, making it the 480th touchdown of Rodgers’ career. The fans cheered for Rodgers throughout the game, and he called it a “really special night.” 

“I felt really good out there,” he said after the game. “I’ve been getting better, and tonight was a step towards playing like I know I can.” He also mentioned that returning to MetLife Stadium was emotional, but he felt calm and free while playing.

The Jets had struggled offensively last season without Rodgers, but in their third game this season with him back, their offense clicked. The running game was strong, with Hall and Braelon Allen combining for 27 carries and 109 rushing yards, while the offensive line did a good job protecting Rodgers.

On the other hand, the Patriots had a tough game and were outplayed by the Jets. However, fans got to see 2024 first-round draft pick Drake Maye in his first regular season action. Maye, picked third overall, was the backup quarterback behind Jacoby Brissett. After Brissett struggled against the Jets' defense, Maye came in during the fourth quarter. He completed 4 of 8 passes for 22 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions and took a couple of hard hits, including two sacks.

Astros' Geoff Blum Calls Out Umpires After Thrilling Victory Against Padres

After Grae Kessinger made a great diving stop on a ground ball and passed it to Jeremy Peña for the final out in the Houston Astros' 4-3 win over the Padres on Tuesday night, broadcaster Geoff Blum had strong feelings about the umpires.

Blum, who works for Space City Home Network, said, “The Astros have every right to complain, but they won this game despite the umpiring and against a good Padres team.”

It was a tough night for the umpires, led by Brennan Miller. Both teams were unhappy with the calls. Jose Altuve even took off his shoe to show that he had fouled a pitch off his foot, which got him ejected by Miller. Meanwhile, Jurickson Profar argued that he hadn’t been hit by a pitch and should stay in the batter’s box during a crucial moment in the 10th inning.

After the game, the broadcast team returned from a break wearing sunglasses, calling it “Astros After Dark” since the game ended just before midnight in Houston. Blum joked, “My eyes are burning from watching some of the officiating” while wearing his shades.

Before the bottom of the 10th inning, Blum and his partner, Kalas, tried to recap the crazy game, which included a five-minute delay while umpires checked the rules about whether pitcher Josh Hader could reset the pitch clock with a runner on base.

Blum expressed frustration, saying, “The officiating doesn’t seem to know the rules.”

Things got even more confusing when Miller called Profar hit by a pitch, even though both the Astros and Profar argued he hadn’t been hit. Profar wanted to continue batting instead.

Blum questioned Miller’s decision, saying, “I’m not sure where Brennan Miller’s at right now.” Replays showed the pitch missed Profar, but the call stood, upsetting everyone, including the broadcasters. Kalas exclaimed, “You’ve got to be kidding me,” while Blum called it “a joke.”

Later, when pitcher Héctor Neris threw a pitch that went inside on Manny Machado, Kalas sarcastically said, “He did not call that a hit by pitch. Ball one.”

In the postgame discussion, Kalas suggested that this was the wildest game they’ve experienced in their eight years calling Astros games together. Blum added, “If this turns into a World Series matchup, I have one request: I don’t want this umpiring crew!”

New zealand women vs Australia women: Lanning Steps Up as Australia Overcomes Early Setback

Australia 145 for 5 (Litchfield 64, Wareham 26, Penfold 2-24) beat New Zealand 143 for 7 (Green 35, Bates 33, Graham 1-13, Sutherland 1-18) by five wickets

Phoebe Litchfield played a brilliant, unbeaten innings to help Australia win against New Zealand in Mackay, despite a shaky start. Her match-winning half-century was the highlight, but the game was also marked by a strange accident before it even began. Ashleigh Gardner was ruled out after bumping heads with teammate Georgia Wareham during a warm-up game.

 Gardner was withdrawn from the match due to concerns about her history with concussions, even though she passed an initial test. Heather Graham was brought in as a replacement, and Kim Garth (knee injury) and Grace Harris (calf injury) were also sidelined for the series, though they are expected to be fit for the T20 World Cup in 2024.

New Zealand had their own injury concerns, with captain Sophie Devine ruled out due to a foot problem. Suzie Bates took over as captain for the match.

Litchfield stole the show after Australia found themselves struggling at 44 for 3, chasing 144. She delivered an almost perfect 64 not out from 43 balls, hitting 11 boundaries. Litchfield got key support from Wareham in a 50-run partnership that steadied the team after they had fallen to 85 for 4. New Zealand’s standout bowler, Molly Penfold, had earlier taken two wickets for 24 runs, putting Australia under pressure.

Earlier in the match, Australia’s bowlers performed well, with each of the six bowlers taking a wicket, making it tough for New Zealand to get going. Maddy Green (35 from 33 balls) and Suzie Bates (33 from 27 balls) made useful contributions but couldn’t push the score higher. Despite some rusty fielding, including 12 byes from Alyssa Healy, Australia managed to keep control and extend New Zealand’s losing streak in women’s T20Is to eight matches.

Australia’s Bowling Variety Shines in Powerplay

Australia’s captain, Alyssa Healy, mentioned they wouldn’t experiment much in this series, and it was clear that their variety in bowling is a key part of their World Cup plans. In the powerplay, Megan Schutt's swing, Tayla Vlaeminck's pace, and Sophie Molineux's crafty spin made it hard for New Zealand to score, reducing them to 35 for 2. Georgia Plimmer struggled at the crease, managing just 11 runs before miscuing a shot to backward point. Bates eventually found her rhythm with a couple of boundaries but lacked support from her partners. Amelia Kerr was caught out attempting a slog sweep, and Brooke Halliday was dismissed after missing a simple full toss. 

Healy rotated her bowlers smartly, with Graham also taking a wicket as a late inclusion. Molineux and Schutt were particularly economical, while Vlaeminck was a bit more expensive. Despite Green’s 35 from 33 balls, New Zealand struggled to find the boundary, managing only 10 in total. In comparison, Litchfield alone hit more boundaries in Australia’s chase. New Zealand’s innings ended with a chaotic run out in the final over, with Jess Kerr and Leigh Kasperek both stranded at the same end.

Penfold Puts Australia Under Pressure

New Zealand’s Sophie Devine had highlighted Molly Penfold as a rising star in the fast bowling department, and Penfold delivered with an impressive 2 for 24. After Fran Jonas conceded 12 runs in her first over, Penfold responded by troubling Australia’s top order with her pace and bounce. She dismissed Beth Mooney with a sharp bouncer that clipped her glove, and her tight bowling built pressure, resulting in Healy miscuing a shot to cover and Ellyse Perry losing her stumps to Lea Tahuhu. Penfold returned later to bowl Tahlia McGrath, finishing with excellent figures. She also bowled four consecutive dot balls to Litchfield but couldn’t get the breakthrough New Zealand desperately needed.

Litchfield Lights Up Mackay

Phoebe Litchfield wasn’t sure if she would make Australia’s best XI for the upcoming World Cup, but she might have secured her spot with a fantastic innings. No other batter had found much fluency on a tricky pitch, but Litchfield changed the game when she arrived at the crease. Her first boundary was a fortunate edge, but after that, she showcased her impressive skills. In one over, she played three different shots: a lap-scoop for four, a cover drive, and a powerful shot over mid-on. She continued to dominate, hitting three more boundaries against spin before handling the threat of Penfold after losing McGrath.

Litchfield showed off her full range of shots, including reverse sweeps, and reached her second T20I half-century in just 32 balls. Wareham provided valuable support with 26 from 20 balls in a key 50-run partnership. In the end, Litchfield sealed the win in style with another reverse sweep, finishing the game with eight balls to spare.

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Juventus vs. PSV: Where and How to Watch the Champions League Clash in Canada

The 2024-25 UEFA Champions League starts this week with a new format, and one of the first games is Juventus vs. PSV Eindhoven. 

Juventus, who have yet to lose a game in their Serie A season, are off to a strong start with two wins and two draws, and they haven’t let in any goals so far. On the other hand, PSV have been perfect in their Eredivisie matches, winning all five games and leading the table early in the season.

Both teams are playing well, which makes this match an exciting opener for the new Champions League season.

How to Watch Juventus vs. PSV

• Date: Tuesday, September 17
• Time: 12:45 p.m. ET / 9:45 a.m. PT
• In Canada:
• Live Stream: DAZN
• Subscription Costs:
• Monthly Flex: $34.99 CAD (Pay month-to-month and cancel anytime with 30 days' notice)
• Annual - Pay Monthly: $17.99 CAD (For the first 2 months, then $24.99/month for the remaining 10 months)
• Annual - Pay Upfront:$249.99 CAD (Pay for the whole year in advance to save money)

With a DAZN subscription, you get access to all Champions League matches, plus other sports events like the Nations League, Europa League, Women's Champions League, and more. If you already have a subscription, you can watch the Champions League games without any extra cost.

Series Showdown (50 of 52): Astros Face Padres in Crucial Matchup

The Houston Astros are heading to San Diego for a three-game series against the Padres:

This is their first visit of the year, and the last time they played each other was in September last season. In that series, Houston lost the first game but won the next two, with the Astros dominating the final game 12-2. José Altuve hit a home run and drove in three runs, while Yordan Alvarez, Kyle Tucker, and Chas McCormick each had two hits. Pitcher J.P. France also had a strong performance, allowing just one run over six innings.

Houston's win in that series last year secured them a winning record for the season. This year, they're just one win away from clinching another winning season, which could happen against the Padres.

The Astros are coming off a sweep of the Los Angeles Angels in a three-game series. They won 5-3 in the first two games and 6-4 in the third game on Sunday. Jason Heyward had a great day with two singles, a home run, and two RBIs. Jeremy Peña also got two hits, though the Astros’ top four hitters went 0-for-16. Ronel Blanco pitched six scoreless innings with five strikeouts, and Josh Hader closed the game with a two-out save after some trouble in the ninth.

The Padres return home after a successful five-game road trip, winning four out of five games. They just swept the San Francisco Giants, winning the final game 4-3 in extra innings on Sunday. Robert Suarez picked up the win, although he blew the save earlier in the game. Fernando Tatis Jr. hit a home run, and both Luis Arraez and David Peralta had two hits.

Here’s the schedule for the series with the Padres:

•  Monday at 8:40 PM CT: Spencer Arrighetti (7-12, 4.72) vs. Yu Darvish (5-3, 3.52)
•  Tuesday at 8:40 PM CT: Hunter Brown (11-8, 3.59) vs. Michael King (12-9, 3.06)
• Wednesday at 5:40 PM CT: Framber Valdez (14-6, 2.91) vs. Dylan Cease (13-11, 3.58)

As of now, the Astros are 81-68, leading the AL West by 4.5 games ahead of the Seattle Mariners. They’re currently ranked 5th in the American League and are very close to clinching a playoff spot with a 97.8% chance of making it.

The Padres are 85-65, sitting in second place in the NL West, three games behind the Los Angeles Dodgers. They are ranked 4th in the National League and have a strong 98.5% chance of making the playoffs.

In their recent series against the Angels, some standout performers for the Astros were Ryan Pressly, Ronel Blanco, and Yordan Alvarez. On the other hand, Caleb Ferguson, Ben Gamel, and Yainer Diaz struggled in that series.

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