– A move for Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo is being weighed up by Manchester United, according to the Manchester Evening News. The Red Devils are said to be “very interested” in landing the 25-year-old, and they would be willing to offer him his preferred No. 24 squad number should he choose to make the switch to Old Trafford. That number is currently assigned to goalkeeper André Onana, who is spending the season on loan at Turkish club Trabzonspor. Semenyo has registered six goals and three assists in the Premier League so far this season. That form has caught the attention of several Premier League clubs, with Liverpool also recently linked with interest in securing his signature. The Ghana international reportedly has a £60 million release clause that becomes active in January.
– Negotiations are continuing between Bayern Munich and center-back Dayot Upamecano regarding a new contract amid interest from multiple clubs in Europe, according to Bild. Chelsea are believed to be one of the latest teams keeping tabs on his situation, while Real Madrid, Liverpool, and Internazionale are also keen. The Bundesliga champions are expected to explore an approach for either Borussia Dortmund‘s Nico Schlotterbeck or Crystal Palace‘s Marc Guéhishould they fail to agree to new terms with Upamecano.
– Real Madrid striker Gonzalo García is being tracked by Aston Villa and Brighton & Hove Albion, according to Football Insider. Both Premier League sides are reported to have made contact regarding a potential loan move for the 21-year-old, who has made 10 first team appearances across all competitions so far this season. Los Blancos are yet to make a decision on whether they’d be willing to part ways with him amid concerns that he could be needed for extra attacking depth.
– It could be difficult for Inter Milan to secure a deal to sign Roma midfielder Manu Koné, Fabrizio Romano reports. The 24-year-old France international is considered an important player by manager Gian Piero Gasperini, and the Giallorossi have no plans to let him leave the Stadio Olimpico. The Nerazurri have been linked with interest in Koné for sometime, but it looks as though they could be forced to move on to other options in January, with Roma top of the Serie A table.
– An offer worth £25 million will be required for Liverpool to land AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit, Football Insider reports. It is reported that the Premier League champions are one of the sides considering a move in January for the 19-year-old, but they could face competition from Real Madrid, Barcelona, Newcastle United and Borussia Dortmund. Netherlands U21 international Smit has directly contributed to four goals in 12 Eredivisie matches this season.
EXPERT TAKE
play
1:12
Are Manchester United getting smarter with their transfer deals?
Mark Ogden explains why there’s optimism around Manchester United’s transfer strategy after turning down the chance to sign Chelsea’s Roméo Lavia.
OTHER RUMORS
– Liverpool aren’t looking to move on from manager Arne Slot despite the club’s recent run of form. (Fabrizio Romano)
– Chelsea, Arsenal, and Barcelona are interested in Nottingham Forest defender Murillo. (CaughtOffside)
– Arsenal and Manchester United are monitoring the situation of Napoli midfielder Scott McTominay. (CaughtOffside)
– Newcastle are preparing to sign a striker in January, with DR Congo international Yoane Wissa expected to go to the Africa Cup of Nations. (Football Insider)
– Manchester United want to offer midfielder Casemiro a new contract on a reduced salary. (Fabrizio Romano)
– Multiple clubs including Fiorentina and Real Betis are keen on Botafogo defender David Ricardo, and they could make an offer in the region of €8m soon. (Ekrem Konur)
– Everton have no plans to part ways with midfielder James Garner in January despite interest from Nottingham Forest. (Football Insider)
– Bundesliga sides are considering a move for Verona right-back Rafik Belghali. (Nicolò Schira)
– Several Premier League teams are keeping tabs on 17-year-old Swansea City youth midfielder Harlan Perry. (Rudy Galetti)
To call Musk’s DC tenure contentious would be an understatement. As a man accustomed to getting what he wants and functioning as a powerful executive, he swept through Washington with a figurative chainsaw, slashing budgets, firing workers, and making audacious power grabs. Musk’s brash behavior angered government employees and alienated would-be allies, like Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy. Eventually, the bad blood reached a fever pitch, and Musk had a minor physical altercation with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.
Politico details the stunning fallout. By late May, DOGE and Musk had lost favor with President Trump, and White House aides began pushing back more forcefully against the fledgling government agency. When Musk was officially given a farewell by the White House on May 30th, it also pushed out his right-hand man, Steve Davis.
But Davis, an engineer who had worked closely with Musk for over 20 years, including at DOGE, simply refused to leave. He stepped in to try and take the reins, but this didn’t sit well with many of the remaining DOGE staffers. But others remained loyal, essentially splitting the department in two.
When those uncomfortable with Davis’ leadership, given that he was no longer a government employee, tried to plan for DOGE’s future without him, Davis accused them of staging a coup. The White House quickly rooted out his loyalists, putting an end to Davis’ brief attempt to consolidate control in less than two weeks.
What followed was a series of restructurings, changes in leadership, and ultimately, the end of DOGE as a centralized organization. When Reuters reached out to the White House to ask about the status of DOGE earlier this month, it was told, “that doesn’t exist.”
Musk rode into Washington with big ambitions of slashing government spending by trillions of dollars. Instead, during his brief time in DC, government spending actually increased, and he left behind many burned bridges.
The “Texas Hold ‘Em” singer stepped out with husband Jay-Z for a joint appearance at the F1 Grand Prix in Las Vegas Nov. 22, turning heads in two racing-inspired ensembles.
For her first look, Beyoncé, 44, donned a custom white Louis Vuitton jumpsuit with black and red detailing, accessorizing the outfit with black boots, red gloves and dark aviator sunglasses. She completed the getup with a long black jacket, while wearing her blonde hair in loose curls.
Later, the Grammy winner changed into a red Ferrari-branded leather bodysuit and matching coat, pairing the garments with a black Ferrari hat, red pumps, dark gloves and a checkered flag.
During the outing, Jay and Bey—who wed in 2008—each got to take a turn riding shotgun alongside Lewis Hamilton for a “hot lap” in his race car. In a video shared on social media, both artists’ heart rates seemed to rise during their respective rides, with the Destiny’s Child alum fanning herself off at one point before exclaiming, “I’m sweating!”
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Cartilage is one of the primary connective tissues of the body, providing flexibility and support to joints. Undenatured type II collagen is the principal structural protein in cartilage that is responsible for its tensile strength and toughness. Derived from chicken sternum cartilage, UC-II is a patented form of collagen with undenatured (native) type II collagen that works with the immune system to support healthy joints. Human clinical studies have found that just one 40 mg capsule of UC-II per day can help to promote joint comfort, as well as healthy joint function and flexibility. UC-II brand collagen with undenatured type II collagen (U.S. Patents 7,846,487, 7,083,820, 9,066,926 and EPO Patent EP1435906B1; Canadian patent CA 2459981C; and Japanese Patent JP 4800574B2). UC-II and logo are InterHealth N. I. trademarks. Aquamin is a registered trademark of Marigot Limited. Natural color variation may occur in this product. Is Discontinued By Manufacturer : No Product Dimensions : 1.95 x 1.95 x 4.3 inches; 2.88 ounces Item model number : 3136 Date First Available : July 31, 2015 Manufacturer : NOW Sports – Nutrition and Wellness ASIN : B014MHI0P8 Best Sellers Rank: #6,945 in Health & Household (See Top 100 in Health & Household) #219 in Blended Vitamin & Mineral Supplements #793 in Sales & Deals Customer Reviews: 4.6 4.6 out of 5 stars 4,034 ratings var dpAcrHasRegisteredArcLinkClickAction; P.when(‘A’, ‘ready’).execute(function(A) { if (dpAcrHasRegisteredArcLinkClickAction !== true) { dpAcrHasRegisteredArcLinkClickAction = true; A.declarative( ‘acrLink-click-metrics’, ‘click’, { “allowLinkDefault”: true }, function (event) { if (window.ue) { ue.count(“acrLinkClickCount”, (ue.count(“acrLinkClickCount”) || 0) + 1); } } ); } }); P.when(‘A’, ‘cf’).execute(function(A) { A.declarative(‘acrStarsLink-click-metrics’, ‘click’, { “allowLinkDefault” : true }, function(event){ if(window.ue) { ue.count(“acrStarsLinkWithPopoverClickCount”, (ue.count(“acrStarsLinkWithPopoverClickCount”) || 0) + 1); } }); }); Cartilage is one of the primary connective tissues of the body, providing flexibility and support to joints Undenatured type II collagen is the principal structural protein in cartilage that is responsible for its tensile strength and toughness* Derived from chicken sternum cartilage, the UC-II ingredient is a unique form of collagen with undenatured (native) type II collagen that works with the immune system to support healthy joints* Take 1 capsule daily at bedtime on an empty stomach Packaged in the USA by a family owned and operated company since 1968
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EUGENE, Ore. — After 60 minutes of playing the role of head coach during Oregon‘s 10th win of the season — a 42-27 victory over USC — Dan Lanning allowed himself to do some playoff politicking.
“We didn’t play Chattanooga State today, right? Like some other places,” Lanning said in his postgame news conference, alluding to the SEC teams that scheduled nonconference games this week. “We competed. It’s tough playing nine conference games. It’s tough playing in this league.”
In what was one of only two matchups between ranked teams this week, No. 7 Oregon handled No. 15 USC by outscoring the Trojans in a game defined by high-powered offenses and special teams. Despite missing their top two receivers, Dakorien Moore and Gary Bryant Jr., and losing their starting center during the game, the Ducks outgained USC 436-382 and held the Trojans’ rushing attack to 52 yards while forcing two turnovers.
“I think proof’s in the pudding,” Lanning said. “We can beat you in multiple ways, right? We can outscore you at times, right? We can hold you to the 18-, 16-[point] type of game, win in tough environments, any weather, put the ball down, let’s go play football. That’s the kind of team that we have.”
As the chatter around the College Football Playoff field ramps up, Lanning — who has led Oregon to four straight double-digit-win seasons — took issue with how teams’ wins are sometimes viewed by the committee.
“A lot of times, we play really good teams and they become unranked, all of a sudden. That’s not our fault, right?” Lanning said, flashing a smile. “Maybe it is our fault.”
The Ducks (10-1) are behind three other one-loss teams — Georgia, Texas Tech and Ole Miss — as of Tuesday’s College Football Playoff rankings. Their most impressive win of the season before taking down then-No. 21 Iowa on the road last week (the Hawkeyes promptly fell out of the Top 25) and USC on Saturday was an overtime road win against Penn State, which has since fired James Franklin and fallen out of the Top 25. Oregon’s only loss is to No. 2 Indiana at home.
Oregon heads to Washington next week for a rivalry matchup with plenty still at stake. How far the Ducks rise in the next playoff rankings could determine whether a loss to the Huskies jeopardizes their spot in the field or simply their seeding.
Even if they are not in line for a first-round bye, which they had last year following a 12-0 regular season and a win over Penn State in the Big Ten title game, a victory in Seattle could guarantee that Autzen Stadium hosts a first-round playoff game. Under Lanning, the Ducks have lost at home only twice.
“We got to take advantage of playing a good team today and attacking that,” Lanning said. “We played a good team. We beat them. All we can do next week is try to do the same thing, right?”
Jeff Kassouf covers women’s soccer for ESPN, focusing on the USWNT and NWSL. In 2009, he founded The Equalizer, a women’s soccer news outlet, and he previously won a Sports Emmy at NBC Sports and Olympics.
SAN JOSE, Calif — The week leading into Saturday’s NWSL Championship was dominated by distress over the future of Washington Spirit forward Trinity Rodman, and the league’s inability to retain its biggest star due to the limitations of the salary cap.
But as the final minutes ticked away at PayPal Park on Saturday, Gotham FC midfielder Rose Lavelle was the star of the moment, the player who found that “magic,” as head coach Juan Carlos Amoros called it the day prior, for a 1-0 victory over Washington.
Brilliance in those moments that matter carried Gotham through another unlikely playoff run to its second championship in three seasons.
Lavelle’s trademark left foot curled a shot into the net in the 80th minute in one of the rare moments of transition in a match that was mostly a midfield stalemate. Gotham’s victory completed a storybook playoff run and left the steady, consistent Spirit stuck as runners-up for the second straight year.
Gotham’s championship triumph is the epitome of knockout soccer and the right timing to survive and advance. Gotham did exactly that throughout these playoffs, scraping by at times to defeat the record-setting Kansas City Current in the final seconds of extra time before knocking off the defending champions Orlando Pride in stoppage time on their only shot on goal in that semifinal.
On Saturday, a series of unfortunate events upended the Spirit and benefitted Gotham. Moments before Lavelle’s goal, Spirit midfielder Hal Hershfelt went down with an injury and Washington played several minutes down a player as Hershfelt received treatment on the sideline. She eventually hobbled back onto the field to bring the Spirit back to 11 players as head coach Adrian Gonzalez prepared a substitute, but the match went on, and Gotham fullback Bruninha broke through down the left side and delivered a cutback cross to Lavelle 18 yards out in the central area that Hershfelt had otherwise commanded throughout the match.
Hershfelt and Croix Bethune patrolled the midfield for Washington, but Lavelle, Jaedyn Shaw, and Jaelin Howell canceled out the Spirit’s attempt to control the central areas. Gotham was neither flashy nor spectacular, but they were once again successful. It wasn’t luck, and in truth it wasn’t really magic — not in the Hocus Pocus kind of intangible way.
The “underdog” label for this Gotham team was always superficial. This is a team that won the Concacaf title earlier this year, a team that pushed toward the top of the league a year ago, a team filled with stars, from Lavelle to Shaw and Esther González.
But it is also a team that has wildly underperformed throughout the year, which is why it had to take the hard road to this title.
Gotham’s success is also ironic: A team that Amoros built to be interchangeable and fluid was dragged through the playoffs largely by its stars.
Shaw registered a goal and an assist in the quarterfinal win over the top-seeded Current, followed by the game-winner in the semifinal over the 2024 champion Orlando Pride. On Saturday, it was Lavelle’s left foot that made the difference.
Gotham, with two championships in three years and a Concacaf crown, has mastered the art of knockout soccer.
And that is the beauty of the NWSL and the playoff system, the unpredictable “superpower” the commissioner Jessica Berman and executives rave about. Nobody could be fooled into thinking that Gotham was the best team over the course of the NWSL season. Kansas City set records for points and wins while clinching the Shield by a commanding 21 points.
But Gotham earned its trophy by beating that Kansas City team, followed by last year’s champions.
The NWSL’s biggest story was and still is Rodman and her future. Rodman, however, was mostly a non-factor for the 30-plus minutes that she played off the bench on Saturday due to the limitations of the MCL sprain that she sustained last month. For the second straight year, the USWNT star played through pain on the losing end in an NWSL Championship loss.
After the match, she sat on the bench briefly before slowly walking across the field to embrace her boyfriend, tennis star Ben Shelton. Whether that was Rodman’s last walk across an NWSL stadium for the foreseeable future is unknown.
Saturday, however, was about a Gotham team that kept finding a way to win throughout November, even when it was outplayed. This is the sweet uncertainty of sports, and especially the NWSL, at its finest.
Sports — and championships — are about moments. They are moments of brilliance for one team and poor fortune for another. Gotham bided its time through the “high highs and low lows,” as Lavelle described it on Friday.
A day later, one moment of brilliance from Lavelle delivered the ultimate high.
NBC News’s David Ingram analyzed a month’s worth of Elon Musk’s X posts (our condolences). While what he was able to glean wasn’t too surprising, it was still interesting to see the numbers all laid out. Between September 17th and October 17th, he posted 1,716 times, averaging a little over 55 posts a day. 49 percent of those were about politics, usually fringe. He seems particularly hung up on the race of people on TV and in movies, including going after child actors.
Other things Elon likes to talk about? Crime, Tesla — oh, and of course, himself. Over the 30 days, Elon posted about himself 109 times. He often even reposts his own stan accounts that exist only to fuel his ego. We already knew that Elon liked to post bad political takes and was into self-aggrandising, but now we have some hard data to back it up.
While it’s been a minute since the Desperate Housewives star lived on Wisteria Lane, she’s since found a new address IRL.
“I had my whole adult life here,” Eva told Marie Claire in November 2024 about leaving Los Angeles. “But even before [the pandemic], it was changing. The vibe was different. And then Covid happened, and it pushed it over the edge. Whether it’s the homelessness or the taxes, not that I want to s–t on California—it just feels like this chapter in my life is done now.”
“I’m privileged,” she continued. “I get to escape and go somewhere. Most Americans aren’t so lucky. They’re going to be stuck in this dystopian country, and my anxiety and sadness is for them.”
However, Eva noted her move wasn’t because of President Trump’s re-election.
“I didn’t leave because of the political environment,” the Flamin’ Hot director said on The View: Behind the Table podcast in November 2024. “I left because my work took me there since Land of Women—shooting six months in Catalonia, then four months in Mexico for Searching for Mexico, then back to Spain. Now I’ve been there for years. So I just don’t like that it’s politicized.”
Since moving, Eva has continued to stay busy, with recent projects including her roles in Only Murders in the Building and Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Road Trip.
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The Chiefs hope to get their season back on track against the Colts, historical nemesis Aaron Rodgers could make his return to Chicago, and two of the league’s most exciting offenses — the Bucs and the Rams — face off.
We have you covered with everything you need to know. Our NFL Nation reporters take you inside the locker room with the best thing they heard this week, and ESPN Research provides a key stat to know and a betting nugget for each contest. Plus, analytics writer Seth Walder makes a bold prediction for each matchup, and fantasy analyst Eric Moody shares fantasy football intel. We also have Football Power Index (FPI) game projections, and three analysts — Pamela Maldonado, Moody and Walder — give us final score picks for every game.
Let’s get into the full Week 12 slate, which culminates with a “Monday Night Football” matchup between the Panthers and 49ers on ESPN. (Game times are Sunday unless otherwise noted.)
What we’re hearing on the Colts: The Colts could have their full, revamped secondary intact for the first time this season with CB Charvarius Ward nearing his return from injured reserve (concussion). That could give the Colts a lineup of Ward, Sauce Gardner and Kenny Moore II (slot) at CB, with Cam Bynum and Nick Cross at safety. It gives the Colts unlimited flexibility in terms of matchups and coverages and comes just in time to face QB Patrick Mahomes on the road. — Stephen Holder
What we’re hearing on the Chiefs: The Chiefs are expressing plenty of urgency for their final seven games of the regular season and hope a win can propel them to make a run to clinch a playoff spot. Mahomes essentially said the Chiefs’ season comes down to the next seven weeks. “Obviously we’re 5-5 and not where we want to be at, but we get to write the rest of this season’s story — it starts this week against the Colts at Arrowhead,” Mahomes said. “I’m excited for us to go out there and do it.” — Nate Taylor
Stat to know: Colts QB Daniel Jones has four interceptions in his past two games after throwing only three in his first eight games this season. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Chiefs WR Rashee Rice will record at least eight receptions. Thirty-eight percent of targets against the Colts go to players aligned in the slot, which is third most of all defenses. Rice can have success from playing inside. — Walder
Fantasy nugget: Chiefs TE Travis Kelce is trending up at the perfect time. He had a season-high 13 targets and 24.1 fantasy points last week, and he has scored at least 21 points in two of his past three games. The total suggests this could be a high-scoring matchup, and the rapport between Kelce and Mahomes is well documented. Indianapolis’ defense has also allowed the fourth-most fantasy points per game to TEs. See Week 12 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Colts are 7-3 ATS (against the spread) this season. Overs are 4-1 in their past five games. Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Colts 30, Chiefs 27 Moody’s pick: Chiefs 27, Colts 24 Walder’s pick: Chiefs 24, Colts 20 FPI prediction: KC, 61.5% (by an average of 4.5 points)
What we’re hearing on the Vikings: Minnesota has won 38 games since hiring coach Kevin O’Connell prior to the 2022 season. Of those victories, 33 have come when the Vikings were ahead or even in the turnover battle. This season, turnovers have been a key metric in their disappointing start. They have committed the second-most turnovers (18) and are tied for sixth fewest in takeaways (nine), five of which came in one game. Defensive coordinator Brian Flores said this week that he believes in the team’s process for forcing turnovers, but the Vikings will have to earn them against the Packers, whose seven turnovers this season are tied for the fourth fewest. — Kevin Seifert
What we’re hearing on the Packers: The Packers had realistic shots at four or five interceptions against Jameis Winston and the Giants last week and came up with just one, by safety Evan Williams. The others slipped through their hands or were tipped. Green Bay has intercepted only four passes through the first 10 games after picking off 17 passes last season. “The picks are going to come,” said safety Xavier McKinney, who has two. “Just believe me when I tell you. The. Picks. Will. Come.” Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy has thrown eight interceptions in just five games this season. Only five quarterbacks have thrown more picks this season. — Rob Demovsky
Stat to know: The Packers’ offense has an NFL-best 49% third-down conversion rate this season. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: The Vikings will have a minus-10% or lower pass rate over expectation, according to NFL Next Gen Stats. With McCarthy struggling, I expect Minnesota will try to take a more run-heavy approach as it attempts to upset its division rival. — Walder
play
2:08
Rich Eisen is outraged by J.J. McCarthy criticism
Rich Eisen sees flashes of greatness from J.J. McCarthy and predicts a road win at Green Bay.
Fantasy nugget: Vikings RB Aaron Jones Sr. faces his former team, and while I’m buying into the revenge-game narrative, the matchup is legitimately favorable given how Green Bay has struggled against RBs lately. The Packers’ defense has allowed the seventh-most rushing yards per game over the past three weeks. And Jones has scored at least 11 fantasy points in three straight games. See Week 12 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Packers are 1-5 ATS against teams with losing records this season. Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Packers 27, Vikings 13 Moody’s pick: Packers 27, Vikings 20 Walder’s pick: Packers 24, Vikings 16 FPI prediction: GB, 71.3% (by an average of 8.6 points)
What we’re hearing on the Giants: “Aggressive.” That is how Giants offensive coordinator Tim Kelly described the Lions’ defense under Kelvin Sheppard. Detroit hasn’t allowed a 300-yard passer or a 100-yard rusher this season. Consider that a challenge for veteran quarterback Jameis Winston, who has three 300+ yard games in his last eight starts dating back to last year in Cleveland. — Jordan Raanan
What we’re hearing on the Lions: Coach Dan Campbell was selected by the Giants as the 79th pick of the 1999 NFL draft. He suited up with them from 1999 to 2002 and developed his foundation there. “Obviously, [Giants president and CEO] Mr. [John] Mara is still there, and he was there when I was there and that Mara family will always mean something to me,” Campbell said. “… I had four good years there, and it felt like a family.” — Eric Woodyard
Stat to know: Since Campbell became coach in 2021, the Lions have gone for it on fourth down 32% of the time, the highest mark in the NFL. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Giants edge Abdul Carter will have a big enough game that he’ll vault himself into second place in the Defensive Rookie of the Year odds. (He’s currently sixth.) Perhaps last week’s opening series benching will be a wake-up call. — Walder
Fantasy nugget: Lions WR Jameson Williams has been exceptional for managers over the past three games since the Lions came out of their bye. He has seen at least six targets and scored 16.0 or more fantasy points in three straight games, including a season-high 23.9 points in Week 10. Williams is in a great spot against a Giants defense that has allowed the seventh-most fantasy points per game. See Week 12 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Giants are 8-15 ATS on the road since 2023. They are 0-6 outright on the road this season (3-3 ATS). Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Lions 34, Giants 10 Moody’s pick: Lions 34, Giants 17 Walder’s pick: Lions 25, Giants 24 FPI prediction: DET, 70.9% (by an average of 8 points)
What we’re hearing on the Patriots: New England is 5-0 on the road this season — the NFL’s only undefeated team away from home — and WR Stefon Diggs said coach Mike Vrabel has preached a “pack the identity” message to players. The Patriots pride themselves on an identity that begins with “effort and finish” and that sometimes requires an extra edge on the road. “Going into a hostile environment, bringing your guys with you. Going in with a f— it mindset,” Diggs said. — Mike Reiss
What we’re hearing on the Bengals: No matter whether it’s Joe Burrow or Joe Flacco at QB on Sunday, the Bengals’ starter will have to contend with a strong Patriots secondary. WR Tee Higgins has scored touchdowns in four straight games. With Ja’Marr Chasesuspended, Higgins will likely be matched up against New England’s Christian Gonzalez, who has not allowed a touchdown as the nearest defender this season. Said Bengals offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher: “They probably view [Gonzalez] as their best one if that’s the one they’re traveling on the opponent’s top guy. And I think they’re right to feel that way about him.” — Ben Baby
Stat to know: The Bengals have allowed 27-plus points in nine consecutive games, which is tied with the 1964 Broncos and 2020 Chargers for the longest single-season streak in NFL history. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Patriots WR DeMario Douglas will record four or more receptions, at least tying his season high. Douglas works over the middle of the field, which is where offenses tend to attack the Bengals defense. 53% of targets against Cincinnati are between the numbers, the sixth-highest rate in the league. — Walder
play
1:10
Herbstreit to McAfee: If Joe Burrow is healthy, he is going to play
Kirk Herbstreit joins Pat McAfee and weighs in on the mindset of a player such as Joe Burrow when it comes to returning from injury.
Fantasy nugget: Patriots RB TreVeyon Henderson has been superb over the past three games with Rhamondre Stevenson out with a toe injury. He had at least 15 touches in each matchup, including 24 in Week 11. Henderson averaged 24.3 fantasy points over that span. Even if Stevenson returns this week, Henderson should still lead the Patriots’ backfield. Cincinnati’s defense has given up the most fantasy points per game to RBs. See Week 12 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: All five Bengals home games have gone over the total. Overs are 4-1 in Bengals games if Flacco starts. Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Patriots 28, Bengals 7 Moody’s pick: Patriots 31, Bengals 20 Walder’s pick: Patriots 30, Bengals 27 FPI prediction: NE, 53.6% (by an average of 1.4 points)
What we’re hearing on the Steelers: All eyes are on QB Aaron Rodgers‘ left wrist a week after he sustained a fracture late in the second quarter against the Bengals. Rodgers didn’t return in that game, but he’s not ruling out playing this week in a city where he has had plenty of previous success. “There’s incentive for every opponent, but I have enjoyed many a Sunday and Monday and Thursdays in that city,” he said of playing Chicago. Rodgers said the key to his availability is less about pain management and more about “safety” and being able to protect himself. He stated that it’s more comfortable to receive the snap in shotgun than it is under center, but his goal is to be able to take snaps under center, too. — Brooke Pryor
What we’re hearing on the Bears: A week after the Vikings blitzed Caleb Williams on a whopping 66.7% of his dropbacks, the Bears anticipate a similarly aggressive approach from a Steelers defense that has blitzed at the fourth-highest rate (34%) in the NFL this season. “They’ve got some werewolves on the outside that shows up,” coach Ben Johnson said, referencing the quick pressures generated by edge rushers T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith. “When you have both sides that you’re concerned about, that’s where you got to be pretty creative as a play designer to make sure that they don’t affect the game in a negative fashion.” Williams has seven touchdowns to zero interceptions when blitzed but has either over- or under-thrown a receiver on 28% of his pass attempts when facing added pressure. — Courtney Cronin
Stat to know: The Bears have an NFL-best 22 takeaways and 15 interceptions this season. Chicago has a 7-1 record, outscoring its opponents by 39 points, when finishing with at least one takeaway. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: The Steelers’ defense will force a turnover against play-action. Chicago runs play-action 31% of the time, third most in the NFL, but the Steelers are one of the best defenses against it (despite being a middle-of-the-pack defense on all other plays), with a minus-.15 EPA per play allowed (second best) and 43% success rate allowed (sixth best). — Walder
Fantasy nugget: Bears WR Rome Odunze had a hot start to the season, averaging 19.9 fantasy points over the first five games. However, since Chicago’s bye, he has scored double-digit fantasy points in only two of his past six games. The talent is there, and Odunze has produced whenever he gets targets. He should get a chance against a Steelers defense that has allowed the most receptions and fantasy points per game to WRs. See Week 12 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Steelers are 1-5 ATS in their past six road games (1-3 ATS this season). Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Bears 16, Steelers 15 Moody’s pick: Bears 24, Steelers 17 Walder’s pick: Steelers 19, Bears 16 FPI prediction: CHI, 52.5% (by an average of 0.6 points)
What we’re hearing on the Jets: The Jets hope that QB Tyrod Taylor, who replaces the struggling Justin Fields, will allow them to open up the passing attack. The goal is to get young pass catchers Adonai Mitchell, John Metchie III and Mason Taylor more involved. That wasn’t happening with Fields, as the Jets were held to under 140 net passing yards in three of the past four games. “We have to do something to get this team going offensively in the passing game, and I just felt like it was time to [change QBs],” Aaron Glenn said. — Rich Cimini
What we’re hearing on the Ravens: Protecting QB Lamar Jackson has been an issue. He has been sacked an average of 3.2 times per game, which is the most of his eight-year career. Baltimore is facing a Jets defense that has recorded 8.0 sacks in its past two games. “We’re putting the best five players out there, and they’re playing pretty darn good,” coach John Harbaugh said of his offensive line. “Can they play better? Sure.” Injuries are starting to pile up for Jackson, who has an ankle issue after dealing with knee soreness last week. — Jamison Hensley
Stat to know: The Jets’ lone takeaway this season is the fewest by any team through 10 games in a season all time. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Mitchell will record 70 or more receiving yards. I still believe! Mitchell was targeted six times in his Jets debut, but he struggled mightily to hold on to the ball. Eventually, he is going to break out for a big game. — Walder
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2:02
Kurt Warner: I’m not sure Justin Fields will get another full-time starting QB shot
Kurt Warner joins Rich Eisen and weighs in on Justin Fields’ future after a tough season so far with the Jets.
Fantasy nugget: Ravens WR Zay Flowers hasn’t put up big fantasy numbers since coming out of the Week 7 bye, averaging just 6.2 targets and 12.2 fantasy points per game. That’s a reasonable floor for Flowers, but his ceiling could be higher this week. Over the past four weeks, New York’s defense ranks inside the top 10 in fantasy points allowed to WRs. See Week 12 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Jackson is 11-5-1 ATS as a double-digit favorite in the regular season (17-0 outright) with three straight covers (1-0 ATS this season). Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Ravens 27, Jets 19 Moody’s pick: Ravens 34, Jets 17 Walder’s pick: Ravens 26, Jets 16 FPI prediction: BAL, 79.7% (by an average of 13.1 points)
What we’re hearing on the Seahawks: The Seahawks had a chance to beat the Rams last week, despite QB Sam Darnold‘s four interceptions, because their defense kept giving them chances. That unit goes from one end of the opposing QB spectrum to the other this week. Whereas Matthew Stafford is a 17th-year veteran and playing at an MVP level, Titans rookie Cam Ward ranks last among 33 qualified QBs in Total QBR (28.1). But Seattle isn’t overlooking his ability. “Incredible arm talent, he makes a ton of throws, and from funky platforms,” coach Mike Macdonald said. “So you’ve got to play the whole play through it and if you start making things up and not handling your assignments through the echo of the whistle, he can definitely make you pay.” — Brady Henderson
What we’re hearing on the Titans: The Titans have the NFL’s worst rushing attack, averaging 78.9 yards per game. Interim coach Mike McCoy said he would like to get back to some of the success the team had before struggling with only 58 rushing yards in last week’s 16-13 loss to Houston. Ward pointed to the run game also helping set up the passing game with play-action. The Seahawks’ sixth-ranked run defense poses a significant challenge this week. — Turron Davenport
Stat to know: Seahawks WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba has a league-leading seven games this season with 100 receiving yards (most in a season in Seahawks history). — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Titans LB Cedric Gray, who played 100% of the team’s defensive snaps last week for the first time this season, will record at least 12 combined tackles. I expect Seattle to get out to a big lead and then rely on the running game to work the clock, resulting in plenty of tackle opportunities for Titans LBs. — Walder
Fantasy nugget: Seahawks RB Kenneth Walker III was one of the few bright spots last week, posting 19 touches and a season-high 20.1 fantasy points. He also finished with six more touches than Zach Charbonnet, and Walker now averages 4.2 yards per carry compared with Charbonnet’s 3.4. He’s in a great spot behind an offensive line that ranks eighth in run block win rate (72.8%), facing a Titans defense that has allowed the fifth-most fantasy points per game to RBs. See Week 12 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Titans have covered back-to-back games entering this week. This is the first time they have covered consecutive games since the first two weeks of 2023. Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Seahawks 28, Titans 7 Moody’s pick: Seahawks 37, Titans 14 Walder’s pick: Seahawks 30, Titans 13 FPI prediction: SEA, 75.8% (by an average of 10.7 points)
What we’re hearing on the Jaguars: Cardinals tight end Trey McBride is not a good matchup for the Jaguars, who rank sixth in receiving yards allowed (694) and seventh in receptions (64) by TEs. McBride leads the position in catches (71) and yards (718). “You’ve got to have eyes on him and understand where he is in the formation at all times,” coach Liam Coen said. “Building a plan around stopping guys like that is mixing up looks … and present them and make sure that maybe you have some areas in the red area, whatever it is, to double him or take away their best player.” — Michael DiRocco
What we’re hearing on the Cardinals: A topic all week has been the Cardinals’ 17 penalties against the 49ers and how they can prevent that kind of performance from happening again — especially the pre-snap penalties, which coach Jonathan Gannon calls “non-negotiables.” It comes down to better decision-making, he said. It’s also “very challenging” to keep players confident, and it’s “deflating” after going backward before the snap. “I think that was an anomaly in this process, but it definitely goes back to process,” QB Jacoby Brissett said. — Josh Weinfuss
Stat to know: The Jaguars have 13 drops by WRs this season, five more than any other team. (Their 21 drops overall lead the NFL.) — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Jaguars DT Arik Armstead will record a sack. Armstead has 5.5 sacks on the season and ranks eighth in pass rush win rate as a defensive tackle (11.8%), and Brissett has taken sacks at a 7.5% clip, a slightly above average rate. — Walder
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1:25
Stephania Bell: ‘Jacoby Brissett is fantasy gold’
Field Yates, Daniel Dopp and Stephania Bell discuss Jacoby Brissett’s productive fantasy performances since taking over for Kyler Murray.
Fantasy nugget: Jaguars RB Travis Etienne Jr. has had at least 18 touches and 15 or more fantasy points in each of his past three games, including 19.3 points last week. He’s in a great spot, running behind an offensive line that ranks first in run block win rate (75%). Arizona’s defense has allowed the eighth-most rushing yards per game over the past three weeks. See Week 12 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Overs are 4-1 when Brissett starts this season (Cardinals: 3-2 ATS, 0-2 ATS in past two). Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Jaguars 17, Cardinals 10 Moody’s pick: Cardinals 28, Jaguars 24 Walder’s pick: Jaguars 23, Cardinals 16 FPI prediction: JAX, 54.2% (by an average of 1.6 points)
What we’re hearing on the Browns: QB Shedeur Sanders will make his first start for the Browns, and after an uneven NFL debut in the second half against the Ravens, he’s getting all the practice reps as he prepares to face Las Vegas. With a week of practice as the starter and a game plan tailored to him, the hope is that Sanders is more comfortable as he tries to become the first Browns rookie to win his first start since Eric Zeier in 1995, breaking a string of 17 consecutive losses. “I think it’s going to be exciting … I know you can’t miss it — you cannot miss this moment,” Sanders said. “… We going out there with a purpose, going out there mentally ready, no distractions, no anything, and I’ll be excited.” — Daniel Oyefusi
What we’re hearing on the Raiders: The offensive line, which featured backups Stone Forsythe and Will Putnam, failed to hold up on Monday night. Las Vegas gave up 16 pressures, four sacks and averaged 2.3 yards per carry. The unit faces another big test: Browns edge rusher Myles Garrett. “He’s got speed, he’s got power, and he’s very disruptive,” QB Geno Smith said. “You can see it. He’s had a really hot past three weeks, and we got to cool him down.” — Ryan McFadden
Stat to know: Smith has 12 touchdowns and 13 interceptions this season, making him one of two qualified QBs with more interceptions than passing touchdowns. (The other is J.J. McCarthy.) — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Raiders edge Maxx Crosby will record at least 2.0 sacks. Last season at Colorado, Sanders took sacks on 7.5% of his dropbacks, which ranked 105th out of 127 qualifying passers. — Walder
Fantasy nugget: Browns RB Quinshon Judkins has only 16.4 total fantasy points in two games since the Browns’ bye, hurt by Cleveland’s struggling offense and a nonexistent passing game that has let defenses key on him. Still, he has seen at least 17 touches in both games. Sanders and the Browns might rely more on Judkins and the ground game. It helps that Las Vegas ranks inside the top 10 in both rushing yards allowed and yards per carry allowed to RBs. See Week 12 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Four straight Browns games have gone over the total. Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Raiders 17, Browns 10 Moody’s pick: Browns 16, Raiders 13 Walder’s pick: Raiders 14, Browns 10 FPI prediction: LV, 65.1% (by an average of 5.8 points)
What we’re hearing on the Eagles: Part of the reason the Eagles’ defense has taken off recently is the improvement against the run — and that has a lot to do with the return of LB Nakobe Dean from a torn patellar tendon. Philadelphia was allowing 4.7 yards per rush and 127 yards per game in Weeks 1-5, compared with 3.9 yards per rush and 101.4 yards per game since Dean was reinserted into the defensive lineup in Week 6. “I think as a unit we’re just playing it better,” said coordinator Vic Fangio. “Obviously, Nakobe helps. Last two weeks, [Jaelan] Phillips helps. I think Jalen Carter has really kicked up his game here lately, so it’s a combination of a bunch of things.” — Tim McManus
What we’re hearing on the Cowboys: Was the defensive success on Monday just because they were playing against the Raiders, or is there something different about a defense that now has Quinnen Williams, Logan Wilson, DeMarvion Overshown and starting safeties Malik Hooker and Donovan Wilson on the field and healthy? The Eagles’ offense represents a much more difficult test with Jalen Hurts, DeVonta Smith, A.J. Brown and Saquon Barkley, though the Cowboys did allow just 302 yards and 24 points when these teams met in Week 1. — Todd Archer
Stat to know: Cowboys QB Dak Prescott has won 18 straight home division games that he has started, tied with Brett Favre (1994-98) for the second-longest streak by a starting QB since the 1970 merger after Tom Brady’s 20-game streak from 2007 to 2014. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Hurts will complete multiple 40-plus-yard passes in a win. The Eagles rank second in air yards per attempt (8.7), while Dallas’ defense ranks second in air yards allowed per attempt (8.0) — Walder
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1:19
Orlovsky: What’s going on with Jalen Hurts is ‘so disrespectful’
Dan Orlovsky explains why the Eagles’ reported locker room frustration directed toward Jalen Hurts is “disrespectful.”
Fantasy nugget: The Eagles’ offense has struggled this season, as Philadelphia ranks 25th in total yards per game. This has obviously impacted WRs Brown and Smith from a fantasy perspective, with the duo averaging just 13.9 targets per game and both ranking outside the top 15 in fantasy points at the position. However, it’s tough to fade this pair against a Cowboys defense that has allowed the second-most fantasy points per game to opposing receivers. See Week 12 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Cowboys are 3-1 ATS as underdogs this season, including covering as 7.5-point road underdogs against the Eagles in Week 1 (lost 24-20; under 47.5 points). Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Eagles 27, Cowboys 20 Moody’s pick: Eagles 24, Cowboys 21 Walder’s pick: Eagles 28, Cowboys 20 FPI prediction: PHI, 56.6% (by an average of 2.7 points)
What we’re hearing on the Falcons: Atlanta will be going into the game against its biggest rival without starting QB Michael Penix Jr. (torn ACL) and top WR Drake London (posterior cruciate ligament injury). Without London, offensive coordinator Zac Robinson said he expects a high volume of targets for Darnell Mooney, and it’s a matter of time before Mooney breaks out after early-season injuries. — Marc Raimondi
What we’re hearing on the Saints: The Saints parted ways with another receiver after Brandin Cooks asked for his release. That means another changeup for rookie QB Tyler Shough, who is coming off his first win as a starter. Without Cooks and Rashid Shaheed, who was traded to the Seahawks, Devaughn Vele and Mason Tipton will be next in line to get more snaps. But Shough has been building chemistry with TE Juwan Johnson and WR Chris Olave, both of whom had big games against the Panthers before the bye. — Katherine Terrell
Stat to know: Falcons RB Bijan Robinson has six career games with multiple rushing touchdowns; another would break the tie with Devonta Freeman and William Andrews for third most in franchise history. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Saints RB Alvin Kamara will record his second straight game with 100-plus combined rushing and receiving yards. The Falcons’ defense is allowing a 48% success rate to designed runs, third worst among defenses. So Kamara should have an easier time than normal running the ball. — Walder
Fantasy nugget: Over his past four games, Olave has averaged 7.7 targets and 17.7 fantasy points per game. Another Saints player trending up is Johnson, who has scored 10 or more fantasy points in four straight games, including a 19.2-point performance. The matchup is particularly good for Olave against a Falcons defense that has struggled recently against outside receivers. Over the past three games, Atlanta has allowed the third-most passing yards per game. See Week 12 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget:Kirk Cousins is 1-5 ATS in his past six starts. Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Falcons 25, Saints 20 Moody’s pick: Saints 24, Falcons 20 Walder’s pick: Saints 20, Falcons 17 FPI prediction: ATL, 55% (by an average of 1.6 points)
What we’re hearing on the Buccaneers: Tampa Bay will have to figure out a way to navigate the Rams’ stingy defense. The Bucs allow the second-fewest points (17.2) and are tied for the second-most takeaways (18). “They have invested a lot of capital into the front seven in the last few drafts,” QB Baker Mayfield said. “… [Jared] Verse and [Byron] Young on the edges, the interior guys are also playing well. … They’re winning a lot of one-on-ones, making plays and the back-end guys are playing aggressively because of it.” — ESPN Staff
What we’re hearing on the Rams: QB Matthew Stafford has 20 passing touchdowns against the blitz this season, which leads the NFL. According to ESPN Research, he is tied with Tom Brady (2012) for the third most by any QB in a season since ESPN began tracking blitzes. On Sunday, he will be facing a Bucs team that has blitzed at the highest rate of any team (37%) since coach Todd Bowles joined the team in 2019. Tampa Bay is blitzing 33% of the time this season. — Sarah Barshop
Stat to know: WR Davante Adams has four consecutive games with a touchdown reception, which is one shy of tying the second-longest streak by a Rams player since the 1970 merger (1973 Harold Jackson, 2003 Torry Holt, 2006 Torry Holt and 2019 Cooper Kupp) trailing only Henry Ellard (six straight, 1988-89). — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: Stafford will throw for 350-plus passing yards. The Bucs have a pass-inducing defense, with the third-highest pass rate over expectation against them (plus-1%) per NFL Next Gen Stats, which should result in a major bounce-back in production after his 130-yard game last week. — Walder
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1:27
Why Rich Eisen sees Matthew Stafford emerging as NFL MVP
Rich Eisen explains why Matthew Stafford has the numbers to justify being the NFL MVP this season.
Fantasy nugget: Rams RB Kyren Williams is sharing some of his workload with Blake Corum, but he’s still a must-start in an offense that ranks eighth in total yards and sixth in points per game. Since coming out of their Week 8 bye, Williams has scored 16 or more fantasy points in three straight games. The Buccaneers’ defense allows the seventh-most fantasy points per game to RBs. See Week 12 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Tampa Bay is 8-2 ATS after a loss since the start of last season (13-5 ATS with Mayfield). Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: Rams 31, Buccaneers 25 Moody’s pick: Rams 33, Buccaneers 20 Walder’s pick: Rams 30, Buccaneers 17 FPI prediction: LAR, 64.2% (by an average of 5.5 points)
Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET | ESPN ESPN BET: SF -7 (49.5 O/U)
What we’re hearing on the Panthers: You could call this the Christian McCaffrey game. It’s the first time the Panthers have faced the RB since trading him midway through the 2022 season. Current Carolina RB Chuba Hubbard calls McCaffrey, who leads the NFL in scrimmage yards, the best back he has seen. To remain relevant in the NFC and keep pace with the Bucs in the South, the league’s 17th-ranked run defense is going to have to find a way to stop their No. 8 pick in 2017 — which by coincidence is the last year the Panthers won a Monday night game. — David Newton
What we’re hearing on the 49ers: This game has all the makings of a shootout considering both teams have consistently struggled to generate pass rush this season. The Panthers are 25th in pass rush win rate (33.3%) and 31st in pressure rate (25.1%), while the Niners are 31st in pass rush win rate (30.8%) and 32nd in pressure rate (21.5%). It’s unlikely either side will suddenly fix this issue, but the side that protects better and takes care of the ball will undoubtedly have a leg up in a game with serious NFC playoff implications. — Nick Wagoner
Stat to know: The 49ers are using motion at the snap 41% of the time this season, which is the fourth-highest rate in NFL. Meanwhile, the Panthers are allowing the fifth-most yards per play (6.2) and second-most yards per game (141.0) when opponents use motion at the snap this season. — ESPN Research
Bold prediction: McCaffrey will record 100 or more receiving yards. Not that the 49ers need much of an excuse to get the ball to their star RB, but the Panthers allow targets to the position 21% of the time, third most of all defenses. — Walder
Fantasy nugget: Panthers QB Bryce Young is coming off a season-high 31.8 fantasy points. He has struggled as a passer for most of the season but could be in store for another huge game, along with his No. 1 receiver Tetairoa McMillan, against a 49ers defense that has given up the fifth-most passing yards per game this season. San Francisco’s defense did give up 21.8 fantasy points to Cardinals QB Jacoby Brissett last week. See Week 12 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Panthers are 6-4 outright as underdogs this season (7-3 ATS), the most outright wins in the NFL. Read more. — ESPN Research
Maldonado’s pick: 49ers 26, Panthers 17 Moody’s pick: 49ers 38, Panthers 27 Walder’s pick: 49ers 27, Panthers 17 FPI prediction: SF, 72.6% (by an average of 9.2 points)
