Deadspin | A’s manager Mark Kotsay wants better effort against Astros Apr 4, 2026; West Sacramento, California, USA; Athletics manager Mark Kotsay (7) pulls Athletics pitcher Luis Morales (19) out of the game during the fourth inning against the Houston Astros at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Scott Marshall-Imagn Images The Athletics will be looking for better results on Sunday as they host the Houston Astros in West Sacramento, Calif., with each team vying for its first series win against a divisional opponent in 2026. It’s been a tale of two blowouts so far in this first meeting between American League West rivals this season, with the A’s taking the opener 11-4 on Friday night and Houston responding with an 11-0 shutout on Saturday. Athletics manager Mark Kotsay is looking for a better effort from his team after that big loss. “We didn’t do anything well today,” he said postgame on Saturday. “That game was reflective of, in my opinion, past performances that we feel like we have put behind us, and we need to put behind us as a team.” He was critical of the pitching staff’s performance after five pitchers combined to give up 18 hits, walk 13 batters and strike out only five. “This is not reflective of the expectation level of our staff right now,” Kotsay said. “We talk about beating ourselves all the time. Today, we completely beat ourselves.” The A’s are second in walks in the majors with 47 as a staff in eight games, trailing only the Los Angeles Angels (48). Kotsay said his pitchers need to start locating their offspeed offerings better. “You’ve got to be able to keep big-league hitters off-balance,” he said. “You’ve got to have some type of secondary (pitch) you can throw in the zone for a strike and land it and get ahead.” He’ll also be hoping for an improvement from Jacob Lopez as he makes his first home start of 2026. Lopez (0-1, 6.75 ERA) struggled for control as he walked five batters and gave up three runs in four innings of a 4-0 loss to the Atlanta Braves on Monday. He did not take a decision in either of his previous two career starts against Houston, putting up a 0.87 ERA in 10 1/3 innings, allowing one run on six hits. If the A’s are able to pull out a victory, they will win their first series of the young season after starting 1-5 against the Toronto Blue Jays and Atlanta Braves. Lance McCullers Jr. (1-0, 1.29 ERA) will take the mound for Houston for the rubber game. McCullers picked up the win in his season debut on Monday against Boston, striking out nine and allowing one run over seven innings. Over 15 starts against the Athletics in his career, McCullers is 7-3 with a 3.32 ERA. “He kept attacking,” Astros manager Joe Espada said after McCullers’ outing against the Red Sox. “He set the tone from the very beginning. He was going to control the at-bats.” McCullers has been in the Houston organization for his entire career, drafted in 2012 and debuting in 2015. He was an All-Star in 2017 when the Astros won the World Series, but he has thrown more than 100 innings in a season just once since 2018 while battling multiple injuries. He missed the 2019, 2023 and 2024 campaigns. He will be looking to build on the work of Tatsuya Imai, who worked 5 2/3 scoreless innings and struck out nine in Houston’s win on Saturday to set up Sunday’s decisive Game 3. Last season, the Athletics won the head-to-head series with Houston 8-5. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #manager #Mark #Kotsay #effort #Astros

Deadspin | A’s manager Mark Kotsay wants better effort against Astros
Apr 4, 2026; West Sacramento, California, USA; Athletics manager Mark Kotsay (7) pulls Athletics pitcher Luis Morales (19) out of the game during the fourth inning against the Houston Astros at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Scott Marshall-Imagn Images

The Athletics will be looking for better results on Sunday as they host the Houston Astros in West Sacramento, Calif., with each team vying for its first series win against a divisional opponent in 2026.

It’s been a tale of two blowouts so far in this first meeting between American League West rivals this season, with the A’s taking the opener 11-4 on Friday night and Houston responding with an 11-0 shutout on Saturday.

Athletics manager Mark Kotsay is looking for a better effort from his team after that big loss.

“We didn’t do anything well today,” he said postgame on Saturday. “That game was reflective of, in my opinion, past performances that we feel like we have put behind us, and we need to put behind us as a team.”

He was critical of the pitching staff’s performance after five pitchers combined to give up 18 hits, walk 13 batters and strike out only five.

“This is not reflective of the expectation level of our staff right now,” Kotsay said. “We talk about beating ourselves all the time. Today, we completely beat ourselves.”

The A’s are second in walks in the majors with 47 as a staff in eight games, trailing only the Los Angeles Angels (48). Kotsay said his pitchers need to start locating their offspeed offerings better.

“You’ve got to be able to keep big-league hitters off-balance,” he said. “You’ve got to have some type of secondary (pitch) you can throw in the zone for a strike and land it and get ahead.”

He’ll also be hoping for an improvement from Jacob Lopez as he makes his first home start of 2026.

Lopez (0-1, 6.75 ERA) struggled for control as he walked five batters and gave up three runs in four innings of a 4-0 loss to the Atlanta Braves on Monday.

He did not take a decision in either of his previous two career starts against Houston, putting up a 0.87 ERA in 10 1/3 innings, allowing one run on six hits.

If the A’s are able to pull out a victory, they will win their first series of the young season after starting 1-5 against the Toronto Blue Jays and Atlanta Braves.

Lance McCullers Jr. (1-0, 1.29 ERA) will take the mound for Houston for the rubber game. McCullers picked up the win in his season debut on Monday against Boston, striking out nine and allowing one run over seven innings. Over 15 starts against the Athletics in his career, McCullers is 7-3 with a 3.32 ERA.

“He kept attacking,” Astros manager Joe Espada said after McCullers’ outing against the Red Sox. “He set the tone from the very beginning. He was going to control the at-bats.”

McCullers has been in the Houston organization for his entire career, drafted in 2012 and debuting in 2015. He was an All-Star in 2017 when the Astros won the World Series, but he has thrown more than 100 innings in a season just once since 2018 while battling multiple injuries. He missed the 2019, 2023 and 2024 campaigns.

He will be looking to build on the work of Tatsuya Imai, who worked 5 2/3 scoreless innings and struck out nine in Houston’s win on Saturday to set up Sunday’s decisive Game 3.

Last season, the Athletics won the head-to-head series with Houston 8-5.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #manager #Mark #Kotsay #effort #Astros

Sports news April 5, 2026

Apr 4, 2026; West Sacramento, California, USA; Athletics manager Mark Kotsay (7) pulls Athletics pitcher Luis Morales (19) out of the game during the fourth inning against the Houston Astros at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Scott Marshall-Imagn Images

The Athletics will be looking for better results on Sunday as they host the Houston Astros in West Sacramento, Calif., with each team vying for its first series win against a divisional opponent in 2026.

It’s been a tale of two blowouts so far in this first meeting between American League West rivals this season, with the A’s taking the opener 11-4 on Friday night and Houston responding with an 11-0 shutout on Saturday.

Athletics manager Mark Kotsay is looking for a better effort from his team after that big loss.

“We didn’t do anything well today,” he said postgame on Saturday. “That game was reflective of, in my opinion, past performances that we feel like we have put behind us, and we need to put behind us as a team.”

He was critical of the pitching staff’s performance after five pitchers combined to give up 18 hits, walk 13 batters and strike out only five.

“This is not reflective of the expectation level of our staff right now,” Kotsay said. “We talk about beating ourselves all the time. Today, we completely beat ourselves.”

The A’s are second in walks in the majors with 47 as a staff in eight games, trailing only the Los Angeles Angels (48). Kotsay said his pitchers need to start locating their offspeed offerings better.

“You’ve got to be able to keep big-league hitters off-balance,” he said. “You’ve got to have some type of secondary (pitch) you can throw in the zone for a strike and land it and get ahead.”

He’ll also be hoping for an improvement from Jacob Lopez as he makes his first home start of 2026.

Lopez (0-1, 6.75 ERA) struggled for control as he walked five batters and gave up three runs in four innings of a 4-0 loss to the Atlanta Braves on Monday.

He did not take a decision in either of his previous two career starts against Houston, putting up a 0.87 ERA in 10 1/3 innings, allowing one run on six hits.

If the A’s are able to pull out a victory, they will win their first series of the young season after starting 1-5 against the Toronto Blue Jays and Atlanta Braves.

Lance McCullers Jr. (1-0, 1.29 ERA) will take the mound for Houston for the rubber game. McCullers picked up the win in his season debut on Monday against Boston, striking out nine and allowing one run over seven innings. Over 15 starts against the Athletics in his career, McCullers is 7-3 with a 3.32 ERA.

“He kept attacking,” Astros manager Joe Espada said after McCullers’ outing against the Red Sox. “He set the tone from the very beginning. He was going to control the at-bats.”

McCullers has been in the Houston organization for his entire career, drafted in 2012 and debuting in 2015. He was an All-Star in 2017 when the Astros won the World Series, but he has thrown more than 100 innings in a season just once since 2018 while battling multiple injuries. He missed the 2019, 2023 and 2024 campaigns.

He will be looking to build on the work of Tatsuya Imai, who worked 5 2/3 scoreless innings and struck out nine in Houston’s win on Saturday to set up Sunday’s decisive Game 3.

Last season, the Athletics won the head-to-head series with Houston 8-5.

–Field Level Media

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#Deadspin #manager #Mark #Kotsay #effort #Astros

Why Taylor Swift Allegedly Feels ‘Relief’ After Blake Lively’s Loss

Washington Open 2026: De Minaur beats teen Hewitt in all-Aussie clash Defending champion Alex de Minaur powered into the Washington Open quarterfinals with a clinical 6-2, 6-3 victory over fellow Australian Cruz Hewitt.Women’s top seed Jessica Pegula also advanced, rallying to beat Magdalena Frech 3-6, 6-3, 6-0 while men’s second seed Ben Shelton outlasted Ugo Humbert 6-7 (3/7), 6-3, 6-4.Top-seeded De Minaur was always likely to prove too much for 17-year-old qualifier Hewitt – son of Aussie great Lleyton Hewitt – who had only captured his first ATP victory in Tuesday’s first round.The first set threatened to become a demolition as De Minaur raced to a 5-0 lead.ALSO READ | Djokovic to make return at Cincinnati MastersBut Hewitt found his feet, breaking back in the sixth game and holding serve before succumbing 6-2.Cheered on by a crowd that included his famous father, Hewitt started the second set brightly.But he was broken again on his second service game and could not reel in De Minaur, who warmly embraced the youngster at the net after taking the match.It was the first head-to-head ATP Tour match between the two, who have known each other for years.“It was definitely weird,” said De Minaur. “I knew I was going to play him on the tour someday, but I didn’t actually expect it to be this week.“It was an amazing feeling. Even all the lead up, seeing all the incredible pictures that we have together and how we’ve both grown up.“I’m glad I managed to get through, but I’m sure we’re going to have many battles in the years to come.”De Minaur next faces American Brandon Nakashima, who upset Czech seventh seed Jakub Mensik 7-6 (7/5), 3-6, 6-4.US home hope Shelton advanced with a gritty victory over France’s Humbert. After handing Humbert the first set with a double fault on set point, Shelton dominated the second. Ben Shelton celebrates after beating Ugo Humbert of France.
| Photo Credit:
Getty Images

Ben Shelton celebrates after beating Ugo Humbert of France.
| Photo Credit:
Getty Images
But the third set was a tense affair and after seizing a break for a 5-4 lead Shelton had to fend off a break point before polishing off the match with a sharply angled serve that Humbert smacked into the net.“For me, it was all about heart tonight,” Shelton said after lining up a meeting with Chile’s Alejandro Tabile, a 6-3, 7-6 (8/6) winner over France’s Terence Atmane.Pegula also had to rally from a set down, saying she started her match against Poland’s Frech “just a little off” after a first-round bye.“I wasn’t quite attacking the ball, and I felt like once I did that, then everything else kind of started to click together,” said Pegula, who finished with 42 winners and won 12 of the last 15 games.Pegula next plays fifth-seeded Anna Kalinskaya, who saved two match points to beat Indonesia’s Janice Tjen 1-6, 6-3, 7-6 (9/7).Published on Jul 31, 2026 #Washington #Open #Minaur #beats #teen #Hewitt #allAussie #clash — Ben Shelton celebrates after beating Ugo Humbert of France. | Photo Credit: Getty Images

#Washington #Open #Minaur #beats #teen #Hewitt #allAussie #clash">

mwasimuddin125 0

Defending champion Alex de Minaur powered into the Washington Open quarterfinals with a clinical 6-2, 6-3 victory over fellow Australian Cruz Hewitt.
Women’s top seed Jessica Pegula also advanced, rallying to beat Magdalena Frech 3-6, 6-3, 6-0 while men’s second seed Ben Shelton outlasted Ugo Humbert 6-7 (3/7), 6-3, 6-4.
Top-seeded De Minaur was always likely to prove too much for 17-year-old qualifier Hewitt – son of Aussie great Lleyton Hewitt – who had only captured his first ATP victory in Tuesday’s first round.
The first set threatened to become a demolition as De Minaur raced to a 5-0 lead.
ALSO READ | Djokovic to make return at Cincinnati Masters
But Hewitt found his feet, breaking back in the sixth game and holding serve before succumbing 6-2.
Cheered on by a crowd that included his famous father, Hewitt started the second set brightly.
But he was broken again on his second service game and could not reel in De Minaur, who warmly embraced the youngster at the net after taking the match.
It was the first head-to-head ATP Tour match between the two, who have known each other for years.
“It was definitely weird,” said De Minaur. “I knew I was going to play him on the tour someday, but I didn’t actually expect it to be this week.
“It was an amazing feeling. Even all the lead up, seeing all the incredible pictures that we have together and how we’ve both grown up.
“I’m glad I managed to get through, but I’m sure we’re going to have many battles in the years to come.”
De Minaur next faces American Brandon Nakashima, who upset Czech seventh seed Jakub Mensik 7-6 (7/5), 3-6, 6-4.
US home hope Shelton advanced with a gritty victory over France’s Humbert. After handing Humbert the first set with a double fault on set point, Shelton dominated the second.
Ben Shelton celebrates after beating Ugo Humbert of France. | Photo Credit: Getty Images
Ben Shelton celebrates after beating Ugo Humbert of France. | Photo Credit: Getty Images
But the third set was a tense affair and after seizing a break for a 5-4 lead Shelton had to fend off a break point before polishing off the match with a sharply angled serve that Humbert smacked into the net.
“For me, it was all about heart tonight,” Shelton said after lining up a meeting with Chile’s Alejandro Tabile, a 6-3, 7-6 (8/6) winner over France’s Terence Atmane.
Pegula also had to rally from a set down, saying she started her match against Poland’s Frech “just a little off” after a first-round bye.
“I wasn’t quite attacking the ball, and I felt like once I did that, then everything else kind of started to click together,” said Pegula, who finished with 42 winners and won 12 of the last 15 games.
Pegula next plays fifth-seeded Anna Kalinskaya, who saved two match points to beat Indonesia’s Janice Tjen 1-6, 6-3, 7-6 (9/7).
Published on Jul 31, 2026

#Washington #Open #Minaur #beats #teen #Hewitt #allAussie #clash">Washington Open 2026: De Minaur beats teen Hewitt in all-Aussie clash

Defending champion Alex de Minaur powered into the Washington Open quarterfinals with a clinical 6-2, 6-3 victory over fellow Australian Cruz Hewitt.

Women’s top seed Jessica Pegula also advanced, rallying to beat Magdalena Frech 3-6, 6-3, 6-0 while men’s second seed Ben Shelton outlasted Ugo Humbert 6-7 (3/7), 6-3, 6-4.

Top-seeded De Minaur was always likely to prove too much for 17-year-old qualifier Hewitt – son of Aussie great Lleyton Hewitt – who had only captured his first ATP victory in Tuesday’s first round.

The first set threatened to become a demolition as De Minaur raced to a 5-0 lead.

ALSO READ | Djokovic to make return at Cincinnati Masters

But Hewitt found his feet, breaking back in the sixth game and holding serve before succumbing 6-2.

Cheered on by a crowd that included his famous father, Hewitt started the second set brightly.

But he was broken again on his second service game and could not reel in De Minaur, who warmly embraced the youngster at the net after taking the match.

It was the first head-to-head ATP Tour match between the two, who have known each other for years.

“It was definitely weird,” said De Minaur. “I knew I was going to play him on the tour someday, but I didn’t actually expect it to be this week.

“It was an amazing feeling. Even all the lead up, seeing all the incredible pictures that we have together and how we’ve both grown up.

“I’m glad I managed to get through, but I’m sure we’re going to have many battles in the years to come.”

De Minaur next faces American Brandon Nakashima, who upset Czech seventh seed Jakub Mensik 7-6 (7/5), 3-6, 6-4.

US home hope Shelton advanced with a gritty victory over France’s Humbert. After handing Humbert the first set with a double fault on set point, Shelton dominated the second.

Ben Shelton celebrates after beating Ugo Humbert of France. | Photo Credit: Getty Images

Ben Shelton celebrates after beating Ugo Humbert of France. | Photo Credit: Getty Images

But the third set was a tense affair and after seizing a break for a 5-4 lead Shelton had to fend off a break point before polishing off the match with a sharply angled serve that Humbert smacked into the net.

“For me, it was all about heart tonight,” Shelton said after lining up a meeting with Chile’s Alejandro Tabile, a 6-3, 7-6 (8/6) winner over France’s Terence Atmane.

Pegula also had to rally from a set down, saying she started her match against Poland’s Frech “just a little off” after a first-round bye.

“I wasn’t quite attacking the ball, and I felt like once I did that, then everything else kind of started to click together,” said Pegula, who finished with 42 winners and won 12 of the last 15 games.

Pegula next plays fifth-seeded Anna Kalinskaya, who saved two match points to beat Indonesia’s Janice Tjen 1-6, 6-3, 7-6 (9/7).

Published on Jul 31, 2026

#Washington #Open #Minaur #beats #teen #Hewitt #allAussie #clash

Big 10 Preseason Rankings: Which Teams Are Overrated and Underrated? | Deadspin.com Oregon quarterback Dante Moore walks off the field following the Oregon Ducks annual spring game on April 25, 2026 at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Oregon. After winning their third straight national title, the Big 10 rightfully sits atop the throne of college football. With that success come expectations, and this year will be no different. Eight different Big 10 teams will start the year in the preseason top 25, tying the SEC for the most in the nation.As the SEC has been viewed in the past, success has led to more teams being overrated in the Big 10. Here are the teams in the preseason top 25, and whether I feel they’re overrated, underrated, or properly rated.#1 Ohio State: Properly RatedWhen your roster has Julian Sayin, Bo Jackson, and most importantly, Jeremiah Smith, you’re going to be one of the best offenses in the country. Ohio State’s defense will be much more of a question mark this year, with most of that unit now playing on Sundays, but I trust Matt Patricia to get them up to speed. The Buckeyes are my pick to win the national title, so I think they’re properly rated.#2 Oregon: OverratedDante Moore has all the tools to be a great talent in the NFL, but I’m just not sold on him at Oregon. More importantly, I hate the moves that Oregon made at coordinator this offseason. Will Stein and Tosh Lupoi were two of the hottest names in this past coaching carousel, and I believe their losses will be drastically missed. Oregon might end up in the playoffs; I just think they’re slightly overrated right now.#6 Indiana: Underrated Jul 30, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; Indiana Football head coach Curt Cignetti speaks during Big Ten Media Days at Hilton Chicago. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images If Josh Hoover can provide consistent quarterback play, the Hoosiers can easily win back-to-back national championships. Indiana lost playmakers on defense to the draft, but still brought key pieces to the defense in Tyrique Tucker, Rolijah Hardy, and Isaiah Jones. Coach Curt Cignetti also brings in the number-one portal class and has proven he can get the most out of these guys during his first two years in Bloomington. There’s no reason Indiana can’t win a national title again in 2027.#13 Michigan: OverratedLast season’s Michigan team was far worse than their record showed, and they’re even less talented this season. The Wolverines are severely lacking size in the trenches, and Bryce Underwood doesn’t have playmakers around him. Even if Underwood had Julian Sayin’s resources, I still don’t think he’s a top-half quarterback in the conference. Most importantly, Michigan lucked into a very favorable conference schedule, something they won’t be as lucky with this year. They’ll travel to Oklahoma in out-of-conference play and then deal with Iowa, Penn State, Indiana, Oregon, and Ohio State in Big 10 play as well.#14 Penn State: Properly Rated Penn State’s Dani Dennis-Sutton (33) reaches for the ball as he attempts to block a punt in the first half of an NCAA football game against Nevada, Saturday, August 30, 2025, in State College, Pa. For all of James Franklin’s faults, he was always able to recruit above his weight class at Penn State. Matt Campbell might be stronger come gameday, but this is one of the least talented iterations of Penn State football we’ve seen in years. I would consider the Nittany Lions overrated, but they have one of the easiest power conference schedules. They’ll likely be favored in 9-10 games this year, and Iowa State transfer Rocco Becht should be able to handle most of the bottom-tier teams in the Big 10.#16 Washington: UnderratedIf Washington recovers from the Demond Williams Jr. NIL nightmare, this will be the most fun team to watch in the conference. Last season, Washington’s defense was young and underrated, but now they’re experienced and ready to run. They’ll return 10 impact starters and could quietly be one of the better units in the conference. Jonah Coleman and Denzel Boston will be tough to replace on offense, but I think breakout receiver Dezman Roebuck can provide enough support for Williams and this offense. Washington will be in the fight for a playoff spot this year.#19 Iowa: Overrated Iowa tight end Addison Ostrenga (87) runs for extra yards after a catch during the Hawkeyes’ final spring NCAA football practice, Saturday, April 22, 2023, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. Iowa’s offense looked competent at points last season, which is an upgrade from previous years. They were close to being a top-50 scoring offense last year, but I think they’re going to slide a decent bit, and they also shouldn’t have an elite defense to bail them out either. Jeremy Hecklinski and Hank Brown are the least exciting QB competition in the country, and they’ll both be stuck behind a very inexperienced offensive line. Kamari Moulton and South Dakota transfer L.J. Phillips are an exceedingly talented backfield for Iowa, but I don’t trust their offensive front enough. The schedule is pretty light for Iowa, so Kirk Ferentz will probably find a way to get 9 wins again and make me look stupid.#20 USC: UnderratedThere is no universe in which USC finishes as the 8th-place team in the Big 10. If they aren’t making a serious playoff push this year, it might be the last we see from Lincoln Riley in Southern California. Riley has struggled to field a competent defense at USC, but bringing in former TCU head coach Gary Patterson was a wonderful move. They crushed the portal on defense, and play calling should be out of Riley’s hands, hopefully leading to big improvements. Jayden Maiava might struggle early on, throwing to an entirely new receiving core, but I still expect him to be one of the best quarterbacks in the country. I feel the USC is a dark horse playoff contender and will have a shot at playing in the Big 10 championship this year as well. #Big #Preseason #Rankings #Teams #Overrated #Underrated #Deadspin.com

Jul 30, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; Indiana Football head coach Curt Cignetti speaks during Big Ten Media Days at Hilton Chicago. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

#Big #Preseason #Rankings #Teams #Overrated #Underrated #Deadspin.com">

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Oregon quarterback Dante Moore walks off the field following the Oregon Ducks annual spring game on April 25, 2026 at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Oregon.

After winning their third straight national title, the Big 10 rightfully sits atop the throne of college football. With that success come expectations, and this year will be no different. Eight different Big 10 teams will start the year in the preseason top 25, tying the SEC for the most in the nation.
As the SEC has been viewed in the past, success has led to more teams being overrated in the Big 10. Here are the teams in the preseason top 25, and whether I feel they’re overrated, underrated, or properly rated.
#1 Ohio State: Properly Rated
When your roster has Julian Sayin, Bo Jackson, and most importantly, Jeremiah Smith, you’re going to be one of the best offenses in the country. Ohio State’s defense will be much more of a question mark this year, with most of that unit now playing on Sundays, but I trust Matt Patricia to get them up to speed. The Buckeyes are my pick to win the national title, so I think they’re properly rated.
#2 Oregon: Overrated
Dante Moore has all the tools to be a great talent in the NFL, but I’m just not sold on him at Oregon. More importantly, I hate the moves that Oregon made at coordinator this offseason. Will Stein and Tosh Lupoi were two of the hottest names in this past coaching carousel, and I believe their losses will be drastically missed. Oregon might end up in the playoffs; I just think they’re slightly overrated right now.
#6 Indiana: Underrated

Jul 30, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; Indiana Football head coach Curt Cignetti speaks during Big Ten Media Days at Hilton Chicago. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

If Josh Hoover can provide consistent quarterback play, the Hoosiers can easily win back-to-back national championships. Indiana lost playmakers on defense to the draft, but still brought key pieces to the defense in Tyrique Tucker, Rolijah Hardy, and Isaiah Jones. Coach Curt Cignetti also brings in the number-one portal class and has proven he can get the most out of these guys during his first two years in Bloomington. There’s no reason Indiana can’t win a national title again in 2027.
#13 Michigan: Overrated
Last season’s Michigan team was far worse than their record showed, and they’re even less talented this season. The Wolverines are severely lacking size in the trenches, and Bryce Underwood doesn’t have playmakers around him. Even if Underwood had Julian Sayin’s resources, I still don’t think he’s a top-half quarterback in the conference. Most importantly, Michigan lucked into a very favorable conference schedule, something they won’t be as lucky with this year. They’ll travel to Oklahoma in out-of-conference play and then deal with Iowa, Penn State, Indiana, Oregon, and Ohio State in Big 10 play as well.
#14 Penn State: Properly Rated

Penn State’s Dani Dennis-Sutton (33) reaches for the ball as he attempts to block a punt in the first half of an NCAA football game against Nevada, Saturday, August 30, 2025, in State College, Pa.

For all of James Franklin’s faults, he was always able to recruit above his weight class at Penn State. Matt Campbell might be stronger come gameday, but this is one of the least talented iterations of Penn State football we’ve seen in years. I would consider the Nittany Lions overrated, but they have one of the easiest power conference schedules. They’ll likely be favored in 9-10 games this year, and Iowa State transfer Rocco Becht should be able to handle most of the bottom-tier teams in the Big 10.
#16 Washington: Underrated
If Washington recovers from the Demond Williams Jr. NIL nightmare, this will be the most fun team to watch in the conference. Last season, Washington’s defense was young and underrated, but now they’re experienced and ready to run. They’ll return 10 impact starters and could quietly be one of the better units in the conference. Jonah Coleman and Denzel Boston will be tough to replace on offense, but I think breakout receiver Dezman Roebuck can provide enough support for Williams and this offense. Washington will be in the fight for a playoff spot this year.
#19 Iowa: Overrated

Iowa tight end Addison Ostrenga (87) runs for extra yards after a catch during the Hawkeyes’ final spring NCAA football practice, Saturday, April 22, 2023, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa’s offense looked competent at points last season, which is an upgrade from previous years. They were close to being a top-50 scoring offense last year, but I think they’re going to slide a decent bit, and they also shouldn’t have an elite defense to bail them out either. Jeremy Hecklinski and Hank Brown are the least exciting QB competition in the country, and they’ll both be stuck behind a very inexperienced offensive line. Kamari Moulton and South Dakota transfer L.J. Phillips are an exceedingly talented backfield for Iowa, but I don’t trust their offensive front enough. The schedule is pretty light for Iowa, so Kirk Ferentz will probably find a way to get 9 wins again and make me look stupid.
#20 USC: Underrated
There is no universe in which USC finishes as the 8th-place team in the Big 10. If they aren’t making a serious playoff push this year, it might be the last we see from Lincoln Riley in Southern California. Riley has struggled to field a competent defense at USC, but bringing in former TCU head coach Gary Patterson was a wonderful move. They crushed the portal on defense, and play calling should be out of Riley’s hands, hopefully leading to big improvements. Jayden Maiava might struggle early on, throwing to an entirely new receiving core, but I still expect him to be one of the best quarterbacks in the country. I feel the USC is a dark horse playoff contender and will have a shot at playing in the Big 10 championship this year as well.

#Big #Preseason #Rankings #Teams #Overrated #Underrated #Deadspin.com">Big 10 Preseason Rankings: Which Teams Are Overrated and Underrated? | Deadspin.com

Oregon quarterback Dante Moore walks off the field following the Oregon Ducks annual spring game on April 25, 2026 at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Oregon.

After winning their third straight national title, the Big 10 rightfully sits atop the throne of college football. With that success come expectations, and this year will be no different. Eight different Big 10 teams will start the year in the preseason top 25, tying the SEC for the most in the nation.

As the SEC has been viewed in the past, success has led to more teams being overrated in the Big 10. Here are the teams in the preseason top 25, and whether I feel they’re overrated, underrated, or properly rated.

#1 Ohio State: Properly Rated

When your roster has Julian Sayin, Bo Jackson, and most importantly, Jeremiah Smith, you’re going to be one of the best offenses in the country. Ohio State’s defense will be much more of a question mark this year, with most of that unit now playing on Sundays, but I trust Matt Patricia to get them up to speed. The Buckeyes are my pick to win the national title, so I think they’re properly rated.

#2 Oregon: Overrated

Dante Moore has all the tools to be a great talent in the NFL, but I’m just not sold on him at Oregon. More importantly, I hate the moves that Oregon made at coordinator this offseason. Will Stein and Tosh Lupoi were two of the hottest names in this past coaching carousel, and I believe their losses will be drastically missed. Oregon might end up in the playoffs; I just think they’re slightly overrated right now.

#6 Indiana: Underrated

Jul 30, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; Indiana Football head coach Curt Cignetti speaks during Big Ten Media Days at Hilton Chicago. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

If Josh Hoover can provide consistent quarterback play, the Hoosiers can easily win back-to-back national championships. Indiana lost playmakers on defense to the draft, but still brought key pieces to the defense in Tyrique Tucker, Rolijah Hardy, and Isaiah Jones. Coach Curt Cignetti also brings in the number-one portal class and has proven he can get the most out of these guys during his first two years in Bloomington. There’s no reason Indiana can’t win a national title again in 2027.

#13 Michigan: Overrated

Last season’s Michigan team was far worse than their record showed, and they’re even less talented this season. The Wolverines are severely lacking size in the trenches, and Bryce Underwood doesn’t have playmakers around him. Even if Underwood had Julian Sayin’s resources, I still don’t think he’s a top-half quarterback in the conference. Most importantly, Michigan lucked into a very favorable conference schedule, something they won’t be as lucky with this year. They’ll travel to Oklahoma in out-of-conference play and then deal with Iowa, Penn State, Indiana, Oregon, and Ohio State in Big 10 play as well.

#14 Penn State: Properly Rated

Penn State’s Dani Dennis-Sutton (33) reaches for the ball as he attempts to block a punt in the first half of an NCAA football game against Nevada, Saturday, August 30, 2025, in State College, Pa.

For all of James Franklin’s faults, he was always able to recruit above his weight class at Penn State. Matt Campbell might be stronger come gameday, but this is one of the least talented iterations of Penn State football we’ve seen in years. I would consider the Nittany Lions overrated, but they have one of the easiest power conference schedules. They’ll likely be favored in 9-10 games this year, and Iowa State transfer Rocco Becht should be able to handle most of the bottom-tier teams in the Big 10.

#16 Washington: Underrated

If Washington recovers from the Demond Williams Jr. NIL nightmare, this will be the most fun team to watch in the conference. Last season, Washington’s defense was young and underrated, but now they’re experienced and ready to run. They’ll return 10 impact starters and could quietly be one of the better units in the conference. Jonah Coleman and Denzel Boston will be tough to replace on offense, but I think breakout receiver Dezman Roebuck can provide enough support for Williams and this offense. Washington will be in the fight for a playoff spot this year.

#19 Iowa: Overrated

Iowa tight end Addison Ostrenga (87) runs for extra yards after a catch during the Hawkeyes’ final spring NCAA football practice, Saturday, April 22, 2023, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

Iowa’s offense looked competent at points last season, which is an upgrade from previous years. They were close to being a top-50 scoring offense last year, but I think they’re going to slide a decent bit, and they also shouldn’t have an elite defense to bail them out either. Jeremy Hecklinski and Hank Brown are the least exciting QB competition in the country, and they’ll both be stuck behind a very inexperienced offensive line. Kamari Moulton and South Dakota transfer L.J. Phillips are an exceedingly talented backfield for Iowa, but I don’t trust their offensive front enough. The schedule is pretty light for Iowa, so Kirk Ferentz will probably find a way to get 9 wins again and make me look stupid.

#20 USC: Underrated

There is no universe in which USC finishes as the 8th-place team in the Big 10. If they aren’t making a serious playoff push this year, it might be the last we see from Lincoln Riley in Southern California. Riley has struggled to field a competent defense at USC, but bringing in former TCU head coach Gary Patterson was a wonderful move. They crushed the portal on defense, and play calling should be out of Riley’s hands, hopefully leading to big improvements. Jayden Maiava might struggle early on, throwing to an entirely new receiving core, but I still expect him to be one of the best quarterbacks in the country. I feel the USC is a dark horse playoff contender and will have a shot at playing in the Big 10 championship this year as well.

#Big #Preseason #Rankings #Teams #Overrated #Underrated #Deadspin.com

The Los Angeles Sparks are 10-17, and as such, star guard Kelsey Plum could be on the move. LA Times reporter Marisa Ingemi reported on Wednesday that the Sparks will most likely trade Plum by Sunday’s WNBA midseason trade deadline — and that they’ve gotten interest from multiples teams across the league.

It’s a notable development, as the 31-year-old has established herself as one of the best guards in the league. Plum is in the middle of a career year in which she’s averaging 23.9 points and 6.4 assists, while shooting 52.7% from the field and 38.3% from three. At the same time, she’s had an injury-riddled campaign; she’s appeared in just 12 of 27 games due to multiple lower leg injuries.

While there hasn’t been much concrete reporting about where Plum could land, there are several destinations that could make a lot of sense. The Sparks have until Sunday at 2pm ET to make their decision.

Here’s where she might land.

The best fit: Golden State Valkyries

The Valkyries have lost back-to-back games (albeit one without Gabby Williams) but have otherwise been one of the season’s best storylines. They’re 19-9 and poised for a playoff run, but, despite their league-best defense could they be missing some star power? Gabby Williams, Veronica Burton, and Janelle Salaun have all had big-time season, but none can create for themselves at such high volume the way Plum can.

Golden State could be making a move with the intention of winning a title now, and based on how they’ve performed this season, that’s certainly within the realm of possibility. But, if they can receive some assurance from Plum that she’d re-sign in the offseason — she’s currently on an expiring $999,999 contract — that’d make a trade all the more sensical.

Valkyries head coach Natalie Nakase is very familiar with Plum, having coached her in Las Vegas, which could make the midseason transition even easier. Plum would be a great fit alongside Burton, Williams, and the rest of the Golden State cast.

Second-best option: Dallas Wings

The Wings could be going all-in ahead of the trade deadline. That’s what general manager Curt Miller indicated last week at All-Star weekend.

“You can’t be afraid to rip the Band-Aid off and make moves to try and go for it,” he said. “You’re not always in a championship window.”

Paige Bueckers and Jessica Shepard have both had big-time seasons this year, and Azzi Fudd is having an outstanding rookie campaign. But, could Dallas be interested in flipping Arike Ogunbowale, who is shooting just 37.8% from the field, for a more effective offensive player? Or, is there a way to offload Alanna Smith, who has struggled in a surprisingly limited role so far this season?

Plum will give them an undoubtable boost on the offensive end, and create a lethal backcourt trio alongside Bueckers and Fudd. But, some frontcourt defensive questions remain, even if Dallas pulls the trigger on this transaction.

Dark horse team: Washington Mystics

The Mystics are in the playoff hunt and have a very bright future, in large part due to a core led by Kiki Iriafen, Sonia Citron, and Shakira Austin. But, they’re probably not championship contenders, at least not right now. So, they’ll have to think twice before mortgaging their future for a player who may choose not to re-sign in the offseason.

Still, Washington has one of the league’s top defenses, meaning they could be a good landing spot for Plum, who at times has been a defensive liabiliy (Sydney Johnson’s system shoudl allow her to thrive). The Mystics have plenty of young players and draft assets they could move in a trade. The only question is whether it’s worth it to go all-in now, when they’re probably still a year or two away from being championship contenders.

#potential #Kelsey #Plum #trade #destinations #ranked">

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The Los Angeles Sparks are 10-17, and as such, star guard Kelsey Plum could be on the move. LA Times reporter Marisa Ingemi reported on Wednesday that the Sparks will most likely trade Plum by Sunday’s WNBA midseason trade deadline — and that they’ve gotten interest from multiples teams across the league.
It’s a notable development, as the 31-year-old has established herself as one of the best guards in the league. Plum is in the middle of a career year in which she’s averaging 23.9 points and 6.4 assists, while shooting 52.7% from the field and 38.3% from three. At the same time, she’s had an injury-riddled campaign; she’s appeared in just 12 of 27 games due to multiple lower leg injuries.
While there hasn’t been much concrete reporting about where Plum could land, there are several destinations that could make a lot of sense. The Sparks have until Sunday at 2pm ET to make their decision.
Here’s where she might land.
The best fit: Golden State Valkyries
The Valkyries have lost back-to-back games (albeit one without Gabby Williams) but have otherwise been one of the season’s best storylines. They’re 19-9 and poised for a playoff run, but, despite their league-best defense could they be missing some star power? Gabby Williams, Veronica Burton, and Janelle Salaun have all had big-time season, but none can create for themselves at such high volume the way Plum can.
Golden State could be making a move with the intention of winning a title now, and based on how they’ve performed this season, that’s certainly within the realm of possibility. But, if they can receive some assurance from Plum that she’d re-sign in the offseason — she’s currently on an expiring $999,999 contract — that’d make a trade all the more sensical.
Valkyries head coach Natalie Nakase is very familiar with Plum, having coached her in Las Vegas, which could make the midseason transition even easier. Plum would be a great fit alongside Burton, Williams, and the rest of the Golden State cast.
Second-best option: Dallas Wings
The Wings could be going all-in ahead of the trade deadline. That’s what general manager Curt Miller indicated last week at All-Star weekend.
“You can’t be afraid to rip the Band-Aid off and make moves to try and go for it,” he said. “You’re not always in a championship window.”
Paige Bueckers and Jessica Shepard have both had big-time seasons this year, and Azzi Fudd is having an outstanding rookie campaign. But, could Dallas be interested in flipping Arike Ogunbowale, who is shooting just 37.8% from the field, for a more effective offensive player? Or, is there a way to offload Alanna Smith, who has struggled in a surprisingly limited role so far this season?
Plum will give them an undoubtable boost on the offensive end, and create a lethal backcourt trio alongside Bueckers and Fudd. But, some frontcourt defensive questions remain, even if Dallas pulls the trigger on this transaction.
Dark horse team: Washington Mystics
The Mystics are in the playoff hunt and have a very bright future, in large part due to a core led by Kiki Iriafen, Sonia Citron, and Shakira Austin. But, they’re probably not championship contenders, at least not right now. So, they’ll have to think twice before mortgaging their future for a player who may choose not to re-sign in the offseason.
Still, Washington has one of the league’s top defenses, meaning they could be a good landing spot for Plum, who at times has been a defensive liabiliy (Sydney Johnson’s system shoudl allow her to thrive). The Mystics have plenty of young players and draft assets they could move in a trade. The only question is whether it’s worth it to go all-in now, when they’re probably still a year or two away from being championship contenders.

#potential #Kelsey #Plum #trade #destinations #ranked">3 potential Kelsey Plum trade destinations, ranked

Here’s where she might land.

The best fit: Golden State Valkyries

Second-best option: Dallas Wings

The Wings could be going all-in ahead of the trade deadline. That’s what general manager Curt Miller indicated last week at All-Star weekend.

“You can’t be afraid to rip the Band-Aid off and make moves to try and go for it,” he said. “You’re not always in a championship window.”

Dark horse team: Washington Mystics

#potential #Kelsey #Plum #trade #destinations #ranked

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Related Posts

#1 Ohio State: Properly Rated

#6 Indiana: Underrated

#13 Michigan: Overrated

#14 Penn State: Properly Rated

#16 Washington: Underrated

#19 Iowa: Overrated

#20 USC: Underrated

#1 Ohio State: Properly Rated

#6 Indiana: Underrated

#13 Michigan: Overrated

#14 Penn State: Properly Rated

#16 Washington: Underrated

#19 Iowa: Overrated

#20 USC: Underrated

The best fit: Golden State Valkyries

Second-best option: Dallas Wings

Dark horse team: Washington Mystics

The best fit: Golden State Valkyries

Second-best option: Dallas Wings

Dark horse team: Washington Mystics

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