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Deadspin | Elliot Cadeau, Michigan hold off UConn for national title Michigan guard Elliot Cadeau celebrates a play during the first half of the NCAA national championship game against Connecticut at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis on Monday, April 6, 2026. INDIANAPOLIS — Michigan won it all, but UConn made the Wolverines work for it in a seesaw national championship game on Monday. The Wolverines beat the Huskies 69-63 to win the program’s second national title. Michigan point guard Elliot Cadeau scored 19 points and shot 8 of 9 from the foul line, and he was selected the Final Four’s Most Outstanding Player. Yaxel Lendeborg had 13 points, and Morez Johnson Jr. finished with 12 points and 10 rebounds. “These guys have done it all year,” Michigan coach Dusty May said during the postgame trophy presentation. “When one side of the ball is letting us down, the other side is picking us up.” Cadeau added, “It just feels great being able to do this with the people I love with all these great fans.” UConn, playing in the national championship game for the third time in four years, slowed the game to a crawl in the first half with a combination of late-clock shot attempts and foul trouble. Michigan missed all eight of its 3-point attempts in the first half but won the game at the free-throw line. The Wolverines had to work to finish the job. Holding a 67-60 lead with less than a minute to play, Michigan turned it over and Solo Ball banked in a 3-pointer over Trey McKenney with 37 seconds left. Roddy Gayle Jr. missed both free throws at the other end, but Alex Karaban’s trey attempt barely glanced the front of the rim and McKenney corralled the board with 13.4 ticks on the clock. McKenney hit both shots at the line to seal the victory. The Wolverines made 20 consecutive free throws and finished 25 of 28 from the line. Karaban and teammate Braylon Mullins were both 3 of 10 from 3-point range and shot a combined 9 of 31 in the game. Karaban, bidding to become the first non-UCLA player to win three national titles, had a team-high 17 points for UConn. A tight first half featured six lead changes and eight ties but no scoring runs Michigan had become known for in the tournament. The Wolverines averaged 94.4 points in their first five NCAA Tournament games. When the teams switched ends at halftime, UConn felt Michigan’s pain, missing its first 11 3-point tries and shooting 4 of 18 from 3-point range in the second half. Michigan was 1-6 all-time in the national championship game entering Monday, with its lone win coming in 1989. This is the first national title for a Big Ten conference team since 2000 (Michigan State). –Jeff Reynolds, Field Level Media #Deadspin #Elliot #Cadeau #Michigan #hold #UConn #national #title

Deadspin | Elliot Cadeau, Michigan hold off UConn for national title
Deadspin | Elliot Cadeau, Michigan hold off UConn for national title Michigan guard Elliot Cadeau celebrates a play during the first half of the NCAA national championship game against Connecticut at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis on Monday, April 6, 2026. INDIANAPOLIS — Michigan won it all, but UConn made the Wolverines work for it in a seesaw national championship game on Monday. The Wolverines beat the Huskies 69-63 to win the program’s second national title. Michigan point guard Elliot Cadeau scored 19 points and shot 8 of 9 from the foul line, and he was selected the Final Four’s Most Outstanding Player. Yaxel Lendeborg had 13 points, and Morez Johnson Jr. finished with 12 points and 10 rebounds. “These guys have done it all year,” Michigan coach Dusty May said during the postgame trophy presentation. “When one side of the ball is letting us down, the other side is picking us up.” Cadeau added, “It just feels great being able to do this with the people I love with all these great fans.” UConn, playing in the national championship game for the third time in four years, slowed the game to a crawl in the first half with a combination of late-clock shot attempts and foul trouble. Michigan missed all eight of its 3-point attempts in the first half but won the game at the free-throw line. The Wolverines had to work to finish the job. Holding a 67-60 lead with less than a minute to play, Michigan turned it over and Solo Ball banked in a 3-pointer over Trey McKenney with 37 seconds left. Roddy Gayle Jr. missed both free throws at the other end, but Alex Karaban’s trey attempt barely glanced the front of the rim and McKenney corralled the board with 13.4 ticks on the clock. McKenney hit both shots at the line to seal the victory. The Wolverines made 20 consecutive free throws and finished 25 of 28 from the line. Karaban and teammate Braylon Mullins were both 3 of 10 from 3-point range and shot a combined 9 of 31 in the game. Karaban, bidding to become the first non-UCLA player to win three national titles, had a team-high 17 points for UConn. A tight first half featured six lead changes and eight ties but no scoring runs Michigan had become known for in the tournament. The Wolverines averaged 94.4 points in their first five NCAA Tournament games. When the teams switched ends at halftime, UConn felt Michigan’s pain, missing its first 11 3-point tries and shooting 4 of 18 from 3-point range in the second half. Michigan was 1-6 all-time in the national championship game entering Monday, with its lone win coming in 1989. This is the first national title for a Big Ten conference team since 2000 (Michigan State). –Jeff Reynolds, Field Level Media #Deadspin #Elliot #Cadeau #Michigan #hold #UConn #national #titleMichigan guard Elliot Cadeau celebrates a play during the first half of the NCAA national championship game against Connecticut at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis on Monday, April 6, 2026.

INDIANAPOLIS — Michigan won it all, but UConn made the Wolverines work for it in a seesaw national championship game on Monday.

The Wolverines beat the Huskies 69-63 to win the program’s second national title.

Michigan point guard Elliot Cadeau scored 19 points and shot 8 of 9 from the foul line, and he was selected the Final Four’s Most Outstanding Player. Yaxel Lendeborg had 13 points, and Morez Johnson Jr. finished with 12 points and 10 rebounds.

“These guys have done it all year,” Michigan coach Dusty May said during the postgame trophy presentation. “When one side of the ball is letting us down, the other side is picking us up.”

Cadeau added, “It just feels great being able to do this with the people I love with all these great fans.”

UConn, playing in the national championship game for the third time in four years, slowed the game to a crawl in the first half with a combination of late-clock shot attempts and foul trouble.

Michigan missed all eight of its 3-point attempts in the first half but won the game at the free-throw line.


The Wolverines had to work to finish the job. Holding a 67-60 lead with less than a minute to play, Michigan turned it over and Solo Ball banked in a 3-pointer over Trey McKenney with 37 seconds left.

Roddy Gayle Jr. missed both free throws at the other end, but Alex Karaban’s trey attempt barely glanced the front of the rim and McKenney corralled the board with 13.4 ticks on the clock. McKenney hit both shots at the line to seal the victory.

The Wolverines made 20 consecutive free throws and finished 25 of 28 from the line.

Karaban and teammate Braylon Mullins were both 3 of 10 from 3-point range and shot a combined 9 of 31 in the game. Karaban, bidding to become the first non-UCLA player to win three national titles, had a team-high 17 points for UConn.

A tight first half featured six lead changes and eight ties but no scoring runs Michigan had become known for in the tournament. The Wolverines averaged 94.4 points in their first five NCAA Tournament games.

When the teams switched ends at halftime, UConn felt Michigan’s pain, missing its first 11 3-point tries and shooting 4 of 18 from 3-point range in the second half.

Michigan was 1-6 all-time in the national championship game entering Monday, with its lone win coming in 1989. This is the first national title for a Big Ten conference team since 2000 (Michigan State).

–Jeff Reynolds, Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Elliot #Cadeau #Michigan #hold #UConn #national #title

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Michigan guard Elliot Cadeau celebrates a play during the first half of the NCAA national championship game against Connecticut at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis on Monday, April 6, 2026.

INDIANAPOLIS — Michigan won it all, but UConn made the Wolverines work for it in a seesaw national championship game on Monday.

The Wolverines beat the Huskies 69-63 to win the program’s second national title.

Michigan point guard Elliot Cadeau scored 19 points and shot 8 of 9 from the foul line, and he was selected the Final Four’s Most Outstanding Player. Yaxel Lendeborg had 13 points, and Morez Johnson Jr. finished with 12 points and 10 rebounds.

“These guys have done it all year,” Michigan coach Dusty May said during the postgame trophy presentation. “When one side of the ball is letting us down, the other side is picking us up.”

Cadeau added, “It just feels great being able to do this with the people I love with all these great fans.”

UConn, playing in the national championship game for the third time in four years, slowed the game to a crawl in the first half with a combination of late-clock shot attempts and foul trouble.

Michigan missed all eight of its 3-point attempts in the first half but won the game at the free-throw line.

The Wolverines had to work to finish the job. Holding a 67-60 lead with less than a minute to play, Michigan turned it over and Solo Ball banked in a 3-pointer over Trey McKenney with 37 seconds left.

Roddy Gayle Jr. missed both free throws at the other end, but Alex Karaban’s trey attempt barely glanced the front of the rim and McKenney corralled the board with 13.4 ticks on the clock. McKenney hit both shots at the line to seal the victory.

The Wolverines made 20 consecutive free throws and finished 25 of 28 from the line.

Karaban and teammate Braylon Mullins were both 3 of 10 from 3-point range and shot a combined 9 of 31 in the game. Karaban, bidding to become the first non-UCLA player to win three national titles, had a team-high 17 points for UConn.

A tight first half featured six lead changes and eight ties but no scoring runs Michigan had become known for in the tournament. The Wolverines averaged 94.4 points in their first five NCAA Tournament games.

When the teams switched ends at halftime, UConn felt Michigan’s pain, missing its first 11 3-point tries and shooting 4 of 18 from 3-point range in the second half.

Michigan was 1-6 all-time in the national championship game entering Monday, with its lone win coming in 1989. This is the first national title for a Big Ten conference team since 2000 (Michigan State).

–Jeff Reynolds, Field Level Media

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Conte says Italian federation should consider him for coach’s job <div id="content-body-70834346" itemprop="articleBody"><p>Napoli coach Antonio Conte would be willing to take the vacant Italy job with his club president Aurelio De Laurentiis supporting the move on Tuesday.</p><p>Gennaro Gattuso resigned as <i>Azzurri </i>boss on Friday after Italy failed to reach this summer’s World Cup for a third straight time.</p><p>Conte’s deal at Napoli runs until 2027 with the Italian champion seven points off Serie A leader Inter Milan with seven matches of the season remaining.</p><p>“It’s expected that my name appears on the list of candidates for the national team,” Conte told reporters after Monday’s 1-0 league win over AC Milan.</p><p>“If I was the federation’s president, I would consider my name. But, you know my contractual situation, I’ll meet with my president at the end of the season and we will see,” the 56-year-old added.</p><p>Conte was in charge of the four-time World Cup winner between 2014 and 2016 when he led the team to Euro 2016, where it was eliminated on penalties by Germany in the quarterfinals.</p><p>He led Napoli to last season’s Scudetto but was close to leaving in the summer after a fall-out with De Laurentiis.</p><p>Gattuso left the job 24 hours after Gabriele Gravina resigned as the head of the Italian football federation (FIGC).</p><p>“If Conte asked me to allow him to become the national team coach again, I would say yes,” De Laurentiis told website <i>Calcionapoli24</i>.</p><p>“But as he’s very intelligent, as long as there’s no (FIGC) president, and up to now there hasn’t been, I don’t think he sees himself in charge of something so disorganised,” Laurentiis added.</p><p>AC Milan boss Massimiliano Allegri has also been linked with the <i>Azzurri </i>position but Gattuso’s replacement will not be named until after June 22’s FIGC extraordinary meeting, to elect a new president for the body.</p><p class="publish-time" id="end-of-article">Published on Apr 07, 2026</p></div> #Conte #Italian #federation #coachs #job

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LOS ANGELES, CA – JUNE 21: Kelsey Plum #10 of the Los Angeles Sparks drives to the basket during the game against the New York Liberty on June 21, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Juan Ocampo/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

Kelsey Plum’s two-season tenure with the Los Angeles Sparks is likely coming to an end, per LA Times reporter Marisa Ingemi. Ingemi reported that the Sparks will most likely trade Plum by Sunday’s midseason trade deadline, and that they’ve gotten interest from across the league.

Couple of league sources I spoke with this morning said it's "most likely" that the Sparks will trade Kelsey Plum by the Sunday trade deadline. They've gotten multiple calls from other WNBA teams and the plan is to move her.

— Marisa Ingemi (@mingemi.bsky.social) 2026-07-29T15:03:09.279Z

Plum is in the midst of a historic offensive season, albeit an injury-riddled one. She’s averaging 23.9 points and 6.4 assists, while shooting 52.7% from the field. All of those numbers are career highs. She’s also shooting 38.3% from three, her highest mark since 2023. But she’s appeared in just 12 of 27 games as she’s dealt with an ankle and a lower leg injury. The Sparks are currently out of the playoff mix, holding a 10-17 record and losers of 6 straight games.

Plum signed a one-year, $999,999 contract ahead of the season, after being traded to LA from Las Vegas in a three-team trade that saw the Seattle Storm get the No. 2 pick (and Li Yueru), and Las Vegas acquire Jewell Loyd. While Plum has individually excelled since arriving in Los Angeles, the team missed out on the playoffs in Year 1 and appears on track to do so again.

#WNBA #AllStar #guard #traded #reports">WNBA All-Star guard will likely be traded, per reports LOS ANGELES, CA – JUNE 21: Kelsey Plum #10 of the Los Angeles Sparks drives to the basket during the game against the New York Liberty on June 21, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Juan Ocampo/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images Kelsey Plum’s two-season tenure with the Los Angeles Sparks is likely coming to an end, per LA Times reporter Marisa Ingemi. Ingemi reported that the Sparks will most likely trade Plum by Sunday’s midseason trade deadline, and that they’ve gotten interest from across the league. Couple of league sources I spoke with this morning said it's "most likely" that the Sparks will trade Kelsey Plum by the Sunday trade deadline. They've gotten multiple calls from other WNBA teams and the plan is to move her.— Marisa Ingemi (@mingemi.bsky.social) 2026-07-29T15:03:09.279Z Plum is in the midst of a historic offensive season, albeit an injury-riddled one. She’s averaging 23.9 points and 6.4 assists, while shooting 52.7% from the field. All of those numbers are career highs. She’s also shooting 38.3% from three, her highest mark since 2023. But she’s appeared in just 12 of 27 games as she’s dealt with an ankle and a lower leg injury. The Sparks are currently out of the playoff mix, holding a 10-17 record and losers of 6 straight games. Plum signed a one-year, 9,999 contract ahead of the season, after being traded to LA from Las Vegas in a three-team trade that saw the Seattle Storm get the No. 2 pick (and Li Yueru), and Las Vegas acquire Jewell Loyd. While Plum has individually excelled since arriving in Los Angeles, the team missed out on the playoffs in Year 1 and appears on track to do so again. #WNBA #AllStar #guard #traded #reports

per LA Times reporter Marisa Ingemi. Ingemi reported that the Sparks will most likely trade Plum by Sunday’s midseason trade deadline, and that they’ve gotten interest from across the league.

Couple of league sources I spoke with this morning said it's "most likely" that the Sparks will trade Kelsey Plum by the Sunday trade deadline. They've gotten multiple calls from other WNBA teams and the plan is to move her.

— Marisa Ingemi (@mingemi.bsky.social) 2026-07-29T15:03:09.279Z

Plum is in the midst of a historic offensive season, albeit an injury-riddled one. She’s averaging 23.9 points and 6.4 assists, while shooting 52.7% from the field. All of those numbers are career highs. She’s also shooting 38.3% from three, her highest mark since 2023. But she’s appeared in just 12 of 27 games as she’s dealt with an ankle and a lower leg injury. The Sparks are currently out of the playoff mix, holding a 10-17 record and losers of 6 straight games.

Plum signed a one-year, $999,999 contract ahead of the season, after being traded to LA from Las Vegas in a three-team trade that saw the Seattle Storm get the No. 2 pick (and Li Yueru), and Las Vegas acquire Jewell Loyd. While Plum has individually excelled since arriving in Los Angeles, the team missed out on the playoffs in Year 1 and appears on track to do so again.

#WNBA #AllStar #guard #traded #reports">WNBA All-Star guard will likely be traded, per reports
WNBA All-Star guard will likely be traded, per reports LOS ANGELES, CA – JUNE 21: Kelsey Plum #10 of the Los Angeles Sparks drives to the basket during the game against the New York Liberty on June 21, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Juan Ocampo/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images Kelsey Plum’s two-season tenure with the Los Angeles Sparks is likely coming to an end, per LA Times reporter Marisa Ingemi. Ingemi reported that the Sparks will most likely trade Plum by Sunday’s midseason trade deadline, and that they’ve gotten interest from across the league. Couple of league sources I spoke with this morning said it's "most likely" that the Sparks will trade Kelsey Plum by the Sunday trade deadline. They've gotten multiple calls from other WNBA teams and the plan is to move her.— Marisa Ingemi (@mingemi.bsky.social) 2026-07-29T15:03:09.279Z Plum is in the midst of a historic offensive season, albeit an injury-riddled one. She’s averaging 23.9 points and 6.4 assists, while shooting 52.7% from the field. All of those numbers are career highs. She’s also shooting 38.3% from three, her highest mark since 2023. But she’s appeared in just 12 of 27 games as she’s dealt with an ankle and a lower leg injury. The Sparks are currently out of the playoff mix, holding a 10-17 record and losers of 6 straight games. Plum signed a one-year, 9,999 contract ahead of the season, after being traded to LA from Las Vegas in a three-team trade that saw the Seattle Storm get the No. 2 pick (and Li Yueru), and Las Vegas acquire Jewell Loyd. While Plum has individually excelled since arriving in Los Angeles, the team missed out on the playoffs in Year 1 and appears on track to do so again. #WNBA #AllStar #guard #traded #reports
LOS ANGELES, CA – JUNE 21: Kelsey Plum #10 of the Los Angeles Sparks drives to the basket during the game against the New York Liberty on June 21, 2026 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Juan Ocampo/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

Kelsey Plum’s two-season tenure with the Los Angeles Sparks is likely coming to an end, per LA Times reporter Marisa Ingemi. Ingemi reported that the Sparks will most likely trade Plum by Sunday’s midseason trade deadline, and that they’ve gotten interest from across the league.

Couple of league sources I spoke with this morning said it's "most likely" that the Sparks will trade Kelsey Plum by the Sunday trade deadline. They've gotten multiple calls from other WNBA teams and the plan is to move her.

— Marisa Ingemi (@mingemi.bsky.social) 2026-07-29T15:03:09.279Z

Plum is in the midst of a historic offensive season, albeit an injury-riddled one. She’s averaging 23.9 points and 6.4 assists, while shooting 52.7% from the field. All of those numbers are career highs. She’s also shooting 38.3% from three, her highest mark since 2023. But she’s appeared in just 12 of 27 games as she’s dealt with an ankle and a lower leg injury. The Sparks are currently out of the playoff mix, holding a 10-17 record and losers of 6 straight games.

Plum signed a one-year, $999,999 contract ahead of the season, after being traded to LA from Las Vegas in a three-team trade that saw the Seattle Storm get the No. 2 pick (and Li Yueru), and Las Vegas acquire Jewell Loyd. While Plum has individually excelled since arriving in Los Angeles, the team missed out on the playoffs in Year 1 and appears on track to do so again.

#WNBA #AllStar #guard #traded #reports

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.

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

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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 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

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.

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

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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.

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

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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.comOregon 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 ImagesJul 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.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 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 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

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 ImagesJul 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.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 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
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.comOregon 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 ImagesJul 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.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 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.

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