Deadspin | Michigan heavy favorite to complete dominant title run vs. UConn Apr 4, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Michigan Wolverines center Aday Mara (15) high fives forward Yaxel Lendeborg (23) during the second half in a semifinal of the Final Four of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images UConn has won two of the past three national championships but will enter Monday night’s title game against Michigan as a heavy underdog. That’s because the top-seeded Wolverines have blitzed through their first five games of the NCAA Tournament, winning by an average of 21.6 points. That includes an 18-point dismantling of fellow No. 1 seed Arizona on Saturday night in a game that wasn’t even as close as the final score. UConn, the No. 2 seed in the East, followed a dramatic upset of No. 1 Duke in the Elite Eight with a systematic breakdown of No. 3 seed Illinois. Still, the Huskies will enter Monday night as the underdog for their third consecutive game. Michigan was a consensus 7.0-point favorite across major sportsbooks on Sunday, with the Wolverines seeking to become the first Big Ten team to win the national title since the 1999-2000 season. The line was sitting at 6.5 points at both BetMGM and DraftKings, where the line opened at 7.5. The total points line at 144.5 at both books. At DraftKings, the shortest odds on the winning margin was Michigan to win by 3-6 points at +425, followed by a Wolverines victory by 10-13 points at +450. UConn’s shortest odds for a victory were 3-6 points at +800. The Wolverines are the 10th Big Ten team to reach the final in a season that began this century, but the most recent team to cut down the nets remains Michigan State in 1999-2000. Michigan looking to complete a turnaround that saw the program stumble to an 8-24 finish just two years ago. UConn is in the final for the third time in four years, but will go up against a Michigan team that already is the first in history to score at least 90 points five times in a single NCAA Tournament. “We know it’s just one more, so we’re going to try to get it,” Michigan’s Aday Mara said after Saturday’s beat down of Arizona. The Huskies certainly have recent history on their site, and coach Dan Hurley will enter Monday night with a 350-179 career coaching record along with that pair of national titles. No program has won three in a four-year span since the 1972-75 UCLA Bruins. UConn has 18 wins this season in which it has held its opponent under 40 percent shooting, and the Huskies held Illinois to 33.9% shooting from three-point range on Saturdya. “We’re a group of fighters. It’s not appealing to everyone,” Hurley said. “I’m sure there’s some people in here that it’s off-putting for. But we are a group of fighters. We are incredibly tough. We’ve got incredible will. We go into these games, we’re ready for battle. “Again, for us it’s not a game that we’re just kind of running around in uniforms throwing the ball around, hoping it goes in. That’s not what we’re doing out there. We’re fighting. It’s a life-and-death struggle for us to get to Monday night for the opportunity to win a championship, and then just to be able to prolong this season with each other and to make the people of Connecticut proud, to make the university proud and all the former great players.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Michigan #heavy #favorite #complete #dominant #title #run #UConn

Deadspin | Michigan heavy favorite to complete dominant title run vs. UConn
Deadspin | Michigan heavy favorite to complete dominant title run vs. UConn Apr 4, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Michigan Wolverines center Aday Mara (15) high fives forward Yaxel Lendeborg (23) during the second half in a semifinal of the Final Four of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images UConn has won two of the past three national championships but will enter Monday night’s title game against Michigan as a heavy underdog. That’s because the top-seeded Wolverines have blitzed through their first five games of the NCAA Tournament, winning by an average of 21.6 points. That includes an 18-point dismantling of fellow No. 1 seed Arizona on Saturday night in a game that wasn’t even as close as the final score. UConn, the No. 2 seed in the East, followed a dramatic upset of No. 1 Duke in the Elite Eight with a systematic breakdown of No. 3 seed Illinois. Still, the Huskies will enter Monday night as the underdog for their third consecutive game. Michigan was a consensus 7.0-point favorite across major sportsbooks on Sunday, with the Wolverines seeking to become the first Big Ten team to win the national title since the 1999-2000 season. The line was sitting at 6.5 points at both BetMGM and DraftKings, where the line opened at 7.5. The total points line at 144.5 at both books. At DraftKings, the shortest odds on the winning margin was Michigan to win by 3-6 points at +425, followed by a Wolverines victory by 10-13 points at +450. UConn’s shortest odds for a victory were 3-6 points at +800. The Wolverines are the 10th Big Ten team to reach the final in a season that began this century, but the most recent team to cut down the nets remains Michigan State in 1999-2000. Michigan looking to complete a turnaround that saw the program stumble to an 8-24 finish just two years ago. UConn is in the final for the third time in four years, but will go up against a Michigan team that already is the first in history to score at least 90 points five times in a single NCAA Tournament. “We know it’s just one more, so we’re going to try to get it,” Michigan’s Aday Mara said after Saturday’s beat down of Arizona. The Huskies certainly have recent history on their site, and coach Dan Hurley will enter Monday night with a 350-179 career coaching record along with that pair of national titles. No program has won three in a four-year span since the 1972-75 UCLA Bruins. UConn has 18 wins this season in which it has held its opponent under 40 percent shooting, and the Huskies held Illinois to 33.9% shooting from three-point range on Saturdya. “We’re a group of fighters. It’s not appealing to everyone,” Hurley said. “I’m sure there’s some people in here that it’s off-putting for. But we are a group of fighters. We are incredibly tough. We’ve got incredible will. We go into these games, we’re ready for battle. “Again, for us it’s not a game that we’re just kind of running around in uniforms throwing the ball around, hoping it goes in. That’s not what we’re doing out there. We’re fighting. It’s a life-and-death struggle for us to get to Monday night for the opportunity to win a championship, and then just to be able to prolong this season with each other and to make the people of Connecticut proud, to make the university proud and all the former great players.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Michigan #heavy #favorite #complete #dominant #title #run #UConnApr 4, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Michigan Wolverines center Aday Mara (15) high fives forward Yaxel Lendeborg (23) during the second half in a semifinal of the Final Four of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

UConn has won two of the past three national championships but will enter Monday night’s title game against Michigan as a heavy underdog.

That’s because the top-seeded Wolverines have blitzed through their first five games of the NCAA Tournament, winning by an average of 21.6 points. That includes an 18-point dismantling of fellow No. 1 seed Arizona on Saturday night in a game that wasn’t even as close as the final score.

UConn, the No. 2 seed in the East, followed a dramatic upset of No. 1 Duke in the Elite Eight with a systematic breakdown of No. 3 seed Illinois. Still, the Huskies will enter Monday night as the underdog for their third consecutive game.

Michigan was a consensus 7.0-point favorite across major sportsbooks on Sunday, with the Wolverines seeking to become the first Big Ten team to win the national title since the 1999-2000 season.

The line was sitting at 6.5 points at both BetMGM and DraftKings, where the line opened at 7.5. The total points line at 144.5 at both books. At DraftKings, the shortest odds on the winning margin was Michigan to win by 3-6 points at +425, followed by a Wolverines victory by 10-13 points at +450. UConn’s shortest odds for a victory were 3-6 points at +800.

The Wolverines are the 10th Big Ten team to reach the final in a season that began this century, but the most recent team to cut down the nets remains Michigan State in 1999-2000. Michigan looking to complete a turnaround that saw the program stumble to an 8-24 finish just two years ago.


UConn is in the final for the third time in four years, but will go up against a Michigan team that already is the first in history to score at least 90 points five times in a single NCAA Tournament.

“We know it’s just one more, so we’re going to try to get it,” Michigan’s Aday Mara said after Saturday’s beat down of Arizona.

The Huskies certainly have recent history on their site, and coach Dan Hurley will enter Monday night with a 350-179 career coaching record along with that pair of national titles. No program has won three in a four-year span since the 1972-75 UCLA Bruins.

UConn has 18 wins this season in which it has held its opponent under 40 percent shooting, and the Huskies held Illinois to 33.9% shooting from three-point range on Saturdya.

“We’re a group of fighters. It’s not appealing to everyone,” Hurley said. “I’m sure there’s some people in here that it’s off-putting for. But we are a group of fighters. We are incredibly tough. We’ve got incredible will. We go into these games, we’re ready for battle.

“Again, for us it’s not a game that we’re just kind of running around in uniforms throwing the ball around, hoping it goes in. That’s not what we’re doing out there. We’re fighting. It’s a life-and-death struggle for us to get to Monday night for the opportunity to win a championship, and then just to be able to prolong this season with each other and to make the people of Connecticut proud, to make the university proud and all the former great players.”

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Michigan #heavy #favorite #complete #dominant #title #run #UConn

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Apr 4, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Michigan Wolverines center Aday Mara (15) high fives forward Yaxel Lendeborg (23) during the second half in a semifinal of the Final Four of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

UConn has won two of the past three national championships but will enter Monday night’s title game against Michigan as a heavy underdog.

That’s because the top-seeded Wolverines have blitzed through their first five games of the NCAA Tournament, winning by an average of 21.6 points. That includes an 18-point dismantling of fellow No. 1 seed Arizona on Saturday night in a game that wasn’t even as close as the final score.

UConn, the No. 2 seed in the East, followed a dramatic upset of No. 1 Duke in the Elite Eight with a systematic breakdown of No. 3 seed Illinois. Still, the Huskies will enter Monday night as the underdog for their third consecutive game.

Michigan was a consensus 7.0-point favorite across major sportsbooks on Sunday, with the Wolverines seeking to become the first Big Ten team to win the national title since the 1999-2000 season.

The line was sitting at 6.5 points at both BetMGM and DraftKings, where the line opened at 7.5. The total points line at 144.5 at both books. At DraftKings, the shortest odds on the winning margin was Michigan to win by 3-6 points at +425, followed by a Wolverines victory by 10-13 points at +450. UConn’s shortest odds for a victory were 3-6 points at +800.

The Wolverines are the 10th Big Ten team to reach the final in a season that began this century, but the most recent team to cut down the nets remains Michigan State in 1999-2000. Michigan looking to complete a turnaround that saw the program stumble to an 8-24 finish just two years ago.

UConn is in the final for the third time in four years, but will go up against a Michigan team that already is the first in history to score at least 90 points five times in a single NCAA Tournament.

“We know it’s just one more, so we’re going to try to get it,” Michigan’s Aday Mara said after Saturday’s beat down of Arizona.

The Huskies certainly have recent history on their site, and coach Dan Hurley will enter Monday night with a 350-179 career coaching record along with that pair of national titles. No program has won three in a four-year span since the 1972-75 UCLA Bruins.

UConn has 18 wins this season in which it has held its opponent under 40 percent shooting, and the Huskies held Illinois to 33.9% shooting from three-point range on Saturdya.

“We’re a group of fighters. It’s not appealing to everyone,” Hurley said. “I’m sure there’s some people in here that it’s off-putting for. But we are a group of fighters. We are incredibly tough. We’ve got incredible will. We go into these games, we’re ready for battle.

“Again, for us it’s not a game that we’re just kind of running around in uniforms throwing the ball around, hoping it goes in. That’s not what we’re doing out there. We’re fighting. It’s a life-and-death struggle for us to get to Monday night for the opportunity to win a championship, and then just to be able to prolong this season with each other and to make the people of Connecticut proud, to make the university proud and all the former great players.”

–Field Level Media

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FIDE Candidates 2026 Standings: Vaishali sits second, Sindarov extends lead after Round 7 <div id="content-body-70823501" itemprop="articleBody"><p>India’s R. Vaishali jumped in the standings to sit sole second after beating China’s Tan Zhongyi in the seventh round of the FIDE Women’s Candidates in Cyprus on Sunday.</p><p>Meanwhile in the Open section, young Uzbek Javokhir Sindarov extended his sole lead with a draw with Netherlands’ Anish Giri.</p><div class="fact-box"><h5 class="main-title"> Standings – After Round 7 </h5><h5 class="sub-title">Open</h5><p> 1. Javokhir Sindarov – 6 </p><p> 2. Fabiano Caruana – 4.5 </p><p> 3. Anish Giri – 3.5 </p><p> 4. R. Praggnanandhaa – 3.5 </p><p> 5. Wei Yi – 3 </p><p> 6. Matthias Bluebaum – 3 </p><p> 7. Hikaru Nakamura – 2.5 </p><p> 8. Andrey Esipenko – 2 </p><h5 class="sub-title">Women’s</h5><p> 1. Anna Muzychuk – 4.5 </p><p> 2. R. Vaishali – 4 </p><p> 3. Zhu Jiner – 3.5 </p><p> 4. Aleksandra Goryachkina – 3.5 </p><p> 5. Kateryna Lagno – 3.5 </p><p> 6. Divya Deshmukh – 3.5 </p><p> 7. Bibisara Assaubayeva – 3 </p><p> 8. Tan Zhongyi – 2.5 </p></div><p class="publish-time" id="end-of-article">Published on Apr 04, 2026</p></div> #FIDE #Candidates #Standings #Vaishali #sits #Sindarov #extends #lead

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Najmul Hossain Shanto will lead a 15-member Bangladesh squad when it welcomes Pakistan for a two-Test series, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) announced on Sunday.

A new name amongst the ranks is wicketkeeper-batter Amite Hasan who received a maiden national team call-up after impressing in the domestic circuit. He has amassed 3650 runs in 49 First-Class matches.

Moreover, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, who’s been part of Bangladesh’s white-ball set-up since 2023, got his first Test team call-up.

The first Test will start on May 8 with the match being held at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka. The second Test will begin on May 16 at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.

The Bangla Tigers are currently playing New Zealand at home in a multi-format white-ball series and have beaten the Kiwis 2-1 in the ODIs.

Bangladesh Test squad for Pakistan series

Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Mehidy Hasan Miraz (vc), Shadman Islam, Mominul Haque Showrab, Mushfiqur Rahim, Litton Kumer Das, Taijul Islam, Nayeem Hasan, Ebadot Hossain Chowdhury, Shoriful Islam, Taskin Ahmed, Nahid Rana, Tanzid Hasan, Amite Hasan.

Published on Apr 26, 2026

#Bangladesh #Test #squad #Pakistan #series #Shanto #leads #15member #team #Tanzid #uncapped #Amite #Hasan #called">Bangladesh Test squad for Pakistan series: Shanto leads 15-member team; Tanzid, uncapped Amite Hasan called up Najmul Hossain Shanto will lead a 15-member Bangladesh squad when it welcomes Pakistan for a two-Test series, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) announced on Sunday.A new name amongst the ranks is wicketkeeper-batter Amite Hasan who received a maiden national team call-up after impressing in the domestic circuit. He has amassed 3650 runs in 49 First-Class matches.Moreover, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, who’s been part of Bangladesh’s white-ball set-up since 2023, got his first Test team call-up.The first Test will start on May 8 with the match being held at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka. The second Test will begin on May 16 at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.The Bangla Tigers are currently playing New Zealand at home in a multi-format white-ball series and have beaten the Kiwis 2-1 in the ODIs.Bangladesh Test squad for Pakistan seriesNajmul Hossain Shanto (c), Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Mehidy Hasan Miraz (vc), Shadman Islam, Mominul Haque Showrab, Mushfiqur Rahim, Litton Kumer Das, Taijul Islam, Nayeem Hasan, Ebadot Hossain Chowdhury, Shoriful Islam, Taskin Ahmed, Nahid Rana, Tanzid Hasan, Amite Hasan.Published on Apr 26, 2026 #Bangladesh #Test #squad #Pakistan #series #Shanto #leads #15member #team #Tanzid #uncapped #Amite #Hasan #called

Three Teams That Screwed Up 2026 NFL Draft | Deadspin.com The Jacksonville Jaguars’ first-round pick, Colorado Buffaloes wide receiver and defensive back Travis Hunter, left, answers questions as General Manager James Gladstone, right, sits next to him during a press conference Friday, March 25, 2025 at Miller Electric Center in Jacksonville, Fla. [Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union] Not every team can take home a prized draft pick, especially if they are throwing darts nowhere near the top of the board.We can’t say enough great things about the Cleveland Browns and Las Vegas Raiders, Dallas Cowboys and New York Jets and their stadium co-tenants, the Giants. From top to bottom, there’s a lot to love about the Panthers’ draft, too.But we have no worldly idea what a few other teams were thinking over the three-day NFL draft completed Saturday in Pittsburgh.Jacksonville JaguarsFrom all splash and sizzle in 2025 to … what-was-that vibes in 2026, maybe this is life with a 30-something general manager. We can’t say Travis Hunter, which cost Jacksonville a 2026 first-round pick in the deal with the Browns on draft night ’25, was a home run. Or even an infield single. And now we can’t say much at all about what the Jaguars did in this draft. The franchise is drafting “culture” and we’re anxious to find out how that computes year over year.San Francisco 49ers Dec 14, 2025; Santa Clara, California, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy (13) prepares to pass the ball during the first quarter against the Tennessee Titans at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images A jumbo receiver who would’ve been on the board 20 picks later De’Zhaun Stribling (Ole Miss) wasn’t entirely unexpected. But the 49ers signed Mike Evans and 2025 first-rounder Ricky Pearsall is being panned as a lead receiver. If these things compute internally, what’s the reward with Stribling? This isn’t a division where drafting depth over difference-makers can be a survival mode. Indiana RB Kaelon Black also would’ve been on the board later and he’s a niche player at best as long as the 49ers have the McCaffrey guy. So two of the top three picks are bit players in a division where everyone north of Arizona will be hyper competitive.Atlanta Falcons Jan 4, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich on the sideline against the New Orleans Saints in the first quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images Clemson cornerback Avieon Terrell brings immediate value and it’s fair to wonder if the Falcons are having buyer’s remorse over the trade of a first-round pick for James Pearce Jr. in 2025 given his off-field issues. The draft wasn’t deep enough to find high-end pass rushers or offensive tackles in the late rounds. Using their third draft pick this year on Kendal Daniels (Oklahoma) at No. 134 is evidence the Falcons are hoping to hit the lottery on upside. Where Daniels fits in this defense is nowhere near clear at the moment. #Teams #Screwed #NFL #Draft #Deadspin.comThe Jacksonville Jaguars’ first-round pick, Colorado Buffaloes wide receiver and defensive back Travis Hunter, left, answers questions as General Manager James Gladstone, right, sits next to him during a press conference Friday, March 25, 2025 at Miller Electric Center in Jacksonville, Fla. [Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union]

Not every team can take home a prized draft pick, especially if they are throwing darts nowhere near the top of the board.

We can’t say enough great things about the Cleveland Browns and Las Vegas Raiders, Dallas Cowboys and New York Jets and their stadium co-tenants, the Giants. From top to bottom, there’s a lot to love about the Panthers’ draft, too.

But we have no worldly idea what a few other teams were thinking over the three-day NFL draft completed Saturday in Pittsburgh.

Jacksonville Jaguars

From all splash and sizzle in 2025 to … what-was-that vibes in 2026, maybe this is life with a 30-something general manager. We can’t say Travis Hunter, which cost Jacksonville a 2026 first-round pick in the deal with the Browns on draft night ’25, was a home run. Or even an infield single. And now we can’t say much at all about what the Jaguars did in this draft. The franchise is drafting “culture” and we’re anxious to find out how that computes year over year.

San Francisco 49ers

Dec 14, 2025; Santa Clara, California, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy (13) prepares to pass the ball during the first quarter against the Tennessee Titans at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn ImagesDec 14, 2025; Santa Clara, California, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy (13) prepares to pass the ball during the first quarter against the Tennessee Titans at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images

A jumbo receiver who would’ve been on the board 20 picks later De’Zhaun Stribling (Ole Miss) wasn’t entirely unexpected. But the 49ers signed Mike Evans and 2025 first-rounder Ricky Pearsall is being panned as a lead receiver. If these things compute internally, what’s the reward with Stribling? This isn’t a division where drafting depth over difference-makers can be a survival mode. Indiana RB Kaelon Black also would’ve been on the board later and he’s a niche player at best as long as the 49ers have the McCaffrey guy. So two of the top three picks are bit players in a division where everyone north of Arizona will be hyper competitive.

Atlanta Falcons

Jan 4, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich on the sideline against the New Orleans Saints in the first quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn ImagesJan 4, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich on the sideline against the New Orleans Saints in the first quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images

Clemson cornerback Avieon Terrell brings immediate value and it’s fair to wonder if the Falcons are having buyer’s remorse over the trade of a first-round pick for James Pearce Jr. in 2025 given his off-field issues. The draft wasn’t deep enough to find high-end pass rushers or offensive tackles in the late rounds. Using their third draft pick this year on Kendal Daniels (Oklahoma) at No. 134 is evidence the Falcons are hoping to hit the lottery on upside. Where Daniels fits in this defense is nowhere near clear at the moment.

#Teams #Screwed #NFL #Draft #Deadspin.com">Three Teams That Screwed Up 2026 NFL Draft | Deadspin.com The Jacksonville Jaguars’ first-round pick, Colorado Buffaloes wide receiver and defensive back Travis Hunter, left, answers questions as General Manager James Gladstone, right, sits next to him during a press conference Friday, March 25, 2025 at Miller Electric Center in Jacksonville, Fla. [Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union] Not every team can take home a prized draft pick, especially if they are throwing darts nowhere near the top of the board.We can’t say enough great things about the Cleveland Browns and Las Vegas Raiders, Dallas Cowboys and New York Jets and their stadium co-tenants, the Giants. From top to bottom, there’s a lot to love about the Panthers’ draft, too.But we have no worldly idea what a few other teams were thinking over the three-day NFL draft completed Saturday in Pittsburgh.Jacksonville JaguarsFrom all splash and sizzle in 2025 to … what-was-that vibes in 2026, maybe this is life with a 30-something general manager. We can’t say Travis Hunter, which cost Jacksonville a 2026 first-round pick in the deal with the Browns on draft night ’25, was a home run. Or even an infield single. And now we can’t say much at all about what the Jaguars did in this draft. The franchise is drafting “culture” and we’re anxious to find out how that computes year over year.San Francisco 49ers Dec 14, 2025; Santa Clara, California, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy (13) prepares to pass the ball during the first quarter against the Tennessee Titans at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images A jumbo receiver who would’ve been on the board 20 picks later De’Zhaun Stribling (Ole Miss) wasn’t entirely unexpected. But the 49ers signed Mike Evans and 2025 first-rounder Ricky Pearsall is being panned as a lead receiver. If these things compute internally, what’s the reward with Stribling? This isn’t a division where drafting depth over difference-makers can be a survival mode. Indiana RB Kaelon Black also would’ve been on the board later and he’s a niche player at best as long as the 49ers have the McCaffrey guy. So two of the top three picks are bit players in a division where everyone north of Arizona will be hyper competitive.Atlanta Falcons Jan 4, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich on the sideline against the New Orleans Saints in the first quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images Clemson cornerback Avieon Terrell brings immediate value and it’s fair to wonder if the Falcons are having buyer’s remorse over the trade of a first-round pick for James Pearce Jr. in 2025 given his off-field issues. The draft wasn’t deep enough to find high-end pass rushers or offensive tackles in the late rounds. Using their third draft pick this year on Kendal Daniels (Oklahoma) at No. 134 is evidence the Falcons are hoping to hit the lottery on upside. Where Daniels fits in this defense is nowhere near clear at the moment. #Teams #Screwed #NFL #Draft #Deadspin.com

splash and sizzle in 2025 to … what-was-that vibes in 2026, maybe this is life with a 30-something general manager. We can’t say Travis Hunter, which cost Jacksonville a 2026 first-round pick in the deal with the Browns on draft night ’25, was a home run. Or even an infield single. And now we can’t say much at all about what the Jaguars did in this draft. The franchise is drafting “culture” and we’re anxious to find out how that computes year over year.

San Francisco 49ers

Dec 14, 2025; Santa Clara, California, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy (13) prepares to pass the ball during the first quarter against the Tennessee Titans at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn ImagesDec 14, 2025; Santa Clara, California, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy (13) prepares to pass the ball during the first quarter against the Tennessee Titans at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images

A jumbo receiver who would’ve been on the board 20 picks later De’Zhaun Stribling (Ole Miss) wasn’t entirely unexpected. But the 49ers signed Mike Evans and 2025 first-rounder Ricky Pearsall is being panned as a lead receiver. If these things compute internally, what’s the reward with Stribling? This isn’t a division where drafting depth over difference-makers can be a survival mode. Indiana RB Kaelon Black also would’ve been on the board later and he’s a niche player at best as long as the 49ers have the McCaffrey guy. So two of the top three picks are bit players in a division where everyone north of Arizona will be hyper competitive.

Atlanta Falcons

Jan 4, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich on the sideline against the New Orleans Saints in the first quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn ImagesJan 4, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich on the sideline against the New Orleans Saints in the first quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images

Clemson cornerback Avieon Terrell brings immediate value and it’s fair to wonder if the Falcons are having buyer’s remorse over the trade of a first-round pick for James Pearce Jr. in 2025 given his off-field issues. The draft wasn’t deep enough to find high-end pass rushers or offensive tackles in the late rounds. Using their third draft pick this year on Kendal Daniels (Oklahoma) at No. 134 is evidence the Falcons are hoping to hit the lottery on upside. Where Daniels fits in this defense is nowhere near clear at the moment.

#Teams #Screwed #NFL #Draft #Deadspin.com">Three Teams That Screwed Up 2026 NFL Draft | Deadspin.com
Three Teams That Screwed Up 2026 NFL Draft | Deadspin.com The Jacksonville Jaguars’ first-round pick, Colorado Buffaloes wide receiver and defensive back Travis Hunter, left, answers questions as General Manager James Gladstone, right, sits next to him during a press conference Friday, March 25, 2025 at Miller Electric Center in Jacksonville, Fla. [Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union] Not every team can take home a prized draft pick, especially if they are throwing darts nowhere near the top of the board.We can’t say enough great things about the Cleveland Browns and Las Vegas Raiders, Dallas Cowboys and New York Jets and their stadium co-tenants, the Giants. From top to bottom, there’s a lot to love about the Panthers’ draft, too.But we have no worldly idea what a few other teams were thinking over the three-day NFL draft completed Saturday in Pittsburgh.Jacksonville JaguarsFrom all splash and sizzle in 2025 to … what-was-that vibes in 2026, maybe this is life with a 30-something general manager. We can’t say Travis Hunter, which cost Jacksonville a 2026 first-round pick in the deal with the Browns on draft night ’25, was a home run. Or even an infield single. And now we can’t say much at all about what the Jaguars did in this draft. The franchise is drafting “culture” and we’re anxious to find out how that computes year over year.San Francisco 49ers Dec 14, 2025; Santa Clara, California, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy (13) prepares to pass the ball during the first quarter against the Tennessee Titans at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images A jumbo receiver who would’ve been on the board 20 picks later De’Zhaun Stribling (Ole Miss) wasn’t entirely unexpected. But the 49ers signed Mike Evans and 2025 first-rounder Ricky Pearsall is being panned as a lead receiver. If these things compute internally, what’s the reward with Stribling? This isn’t a division where drafting depth over difference-makers can be a survival mode. Indiana RB Kaelon Black also would’ve been on the board later and he’s a niche player at best as long as the 49ers have the McCaffrey guy. So two of the top three picks are bit players in a division where everyone north of Arizona will be hyper competitive.Atlanta Falcons Jan 4, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich on the sideline against the New Orleans Saints in the first quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images Clemson cornerback Avieon Terrell brings immediate value and it’s fair to wonder if the Falcons are having buyer’s remorse over the trade of a first-round pick for James Pearce Jr. in 2025 given his off-field issues. The draft wasn’t deep enough to find high-end pass rushers or offensive tackles in the late rounds. Using their third draft pick this year on Kendal Daniels (Oklahoma) at No. 134 is evidence the Falcons are hoping to hit the lottery on upside. Where Daniels fits in this defense is nowhere near clear at the moment. #Teams #Screwed #NFL #Draft #Deadspin.comThe Jacksonville Jaguars’ first-round pick, Colorado Buffaloes wide receiver and defensive back Travis Hunter, left, answers questions as General Manager James Gladstone, right, sits next to him during a press conference Friday, March 25, 2025 at Miller Electric Center in Jacksonville, Fla. [Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union]

Not every team can take home a prized draft pick, especially if they are throwing darts nowhere near the top of the board.

We can’t say enough great things about the Cleveland Browns and Las Vegas Raiders, Dallas Cowboys and New York Jets and their stadium co-tenants, the Giants. From top to bottom, there’s a lot to love about the Panthers’ draft, too.

But we have no worldly idea what a few other teams were thinking over the three-day NFL draft completed Saturday in Pittsburgh.

Jacksonville Jaguars

From all splash and sizzle in 2025 to … what-was-that vibes in 2026, maybe this is life with a 30-something general manager. We can’t say Travis Hunter, which cost Jacksonville a 2026 first-round pick in the deal with the Browns on draft night ’25, was a home run. Or even an infield single. And now we can’t say much at all about what the Jaguars did in this draft. The franchise is drafting “culture” and we’re anxious to find out how that computes year over year.

San Francisco 49ers

Dec 14, 2025; Santa Clara, California, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy (13) prepares to pass the ball during the first quarter against the Tennessee Titans at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn ImagesDec 14, 2025; Santa Clara, California, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy (13) prepares to pass the ball during the first quarter against the Tennessee Titans at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images

A jumbo receiver who would’ve been on the board 20 picks later De’Zhaun Stribling (Ole Miss) wasn’t entirely unexpected. But the 49ers signed Mike Evans and 2025 first-rounder Ricky Pearsall is being panned as a lead receiver. If these things compute internally, what’s the reward with Stribling? This isn’t a division where drafting depth over difference-makers can be a survival mode. Indiana RB Kaelon Black also would’ve been on the board later and he’s a niche player at best as long as the 49ers have the McCaffrey guy. So two of the top three picks are bit players in a division where everyone north of Arizona will be hyper competitive.

Atlanta Falcons

Jan 4, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich on the sideline against the New Orleans Saints in the first quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn ImagesJan 4, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich on the sideline against the New Orleans Saints in the first quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images

Clemson cornerback Avieon Terrell brings immediate value and it’s fair to wonder if the Falcons are having buyer’s remorse over the trade of a first-round pick for James Pearce Jr. in 2025 given his off-field issues. The draft wasn’t deep enough to find high-end pass rushers or offensive tackles in the late rounds. Using their third draft pick this year on Kendal Daniels (Oklahoma) at No. 134 is evidence the Falcons are hoping to hit the lottery on upside. Where Daniels fits in this defense is nowhere near clear at the moment.

#Teams #Screwed #NFL #Draft #Deadspin.com

European champion Arsenal capitalised on two terrible defensive blunders by Lyon on Sunday to come from behind and win the first leg of their Women’s Champions League semifinal clash 2-1.

The French league leader went ahead in the 18th minute when Jule Brand scored with the visitor’s only shot on target in the first half.

But the Gunners were level shortly before the hour mark courtesy of an own goal from Ingrid Engen after goalkeeper Christiane Endler failed to gather the ball.

And they took the lead when Olivia Smith took advantage of another mix-up at the back late in the game.

The two sides met at the same stage of the competition last season, with Arsenal winning 5-3 on aggregate before going on to lift the trophy with victory against Barcelona in the final.

Lyon drew first blood at the Emirates on Sunday when Brand surged forward and cut inside before beating Arsenal goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar with a confident finish.

ALSO READ | Barcelona held at Bayern in Women’s Champions League semifinals

The home side thought it had been offered a way back into the game when it was awarded a penalty five minutes after the restart, but the decision was overturned after a VAR check.

But Arsenal was level in the 58th minute when Mariona Caldentey’s low free-kick somehow made its way into the net. Lyon’s Endler mishandled the ball, and then Engen touched it into her own goal.

Kadidiatou Diani rattled the crossbar as the French team threatened to re-take the lead but it was Arsenal which scored again.

Endler and Engen had a moment of miscommunication, and Smith showed perseverance to poke the ball home in the 83rd minute.

The second leg takes place in Lyon next weekend.

Published on Apr 26, 2026

#Arsenal #punishes #Lyon #errors #UEFA #Womens #Champions #League #semifinal #leg">Arsenal punishes Lyon errors in UEFA Women’s Champions League semifinal first leg European champion Arsenal capitalised on two terrible defensive blunders by Lyon on Sunday to come from behind and win the first leg of their Women’s Champions League semifinal clash 2-1.The French league leader went ahead in the 18th minute when Jule Brand scored with the visitor’s only shot on target in the first half.But the Gunners were level shortly before the hour mark courtesy of an own goal from Ingrid Engen after goalkeeper Christiane Endler failed to gather the ball.And they took the lead when Olivia Smith took advantage of another mix-up at the back late in the game.The two sides met at the same stage of the competition last season, with Arsenal winning 5-3 on aggregate before going on to lift the trophy with victory against Barcelona in the final.Lyon drew first blood at the Emirates on Sunday when Brand surged forward and cut inside before beating Arsenal goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar with a confident finish.ALSO READ | Barcelona held at Bayern in Women’s Champions League semifinalsThe home side thought it had been offered a way back into the game when it was awarded a penalty five minutes after the restart, but the decision was overturned after a VAR check.But Arsenal was level in the 58th minute when Mariona Caldentey’s low free-kick somehow made its way into the net. Lyon’s Endler mishandled the ball, and then Engen touched it into her own goal.Kadidiatou Diani rattled the crossbar as the French team threatened to re-take the lead but it was Arsenal which scored again.Endler and Engen had a moment of miscommunication, and Smith showed perseverance to poke the ball home in the 83rd minute.The second leg takes place in Lyon next weekend.Published on Apr 26, 2026 #Arsenal #punishes #Lyon #errors #UEFA #Womens #Champions #League #semifinal #leg

Barcelona held at Bayern in Women’s Champions League semifinals

The home side thought it had been offered a way back into the game when it was awarded a penalty five minutes after the restart, but the decision was overturned after a VAR check.

But Arsenal was level in the 58th minute when Mariona Caldentey’s low free-kick somehow made its way into the net. Lyon’s Endler mishandled the ball, and then Engen touched it into her own goal.

Kadidiatou Diani rattled the crossbar as the French team threatened to re-take the lead but it was Arsenal which scored again.

Endler and Engen had a moment of miscommunication, and Smith showed perseverance to poke the ball home in the 83rd minute.

The second leg takes place in Lyon next weekend.

Published on Apr 26, 2026

#Arsenal #punishes #Lyon #errors #UEFA #Womens #Champions #League #semifinal #leg">Arsenal punishes Lyon errors in UEFA Women’s Champions League semifinal first leg

European champion Arsenal capitalised on two terrible defensive blunders by Lyon on Sunday to come from behind and win the first leg of their Women’s Champions League semifinal clash 2-1.

The French league leader went ahead in the 18th minute when Jule Brand scored with the visitor’s only shot on target in the first half.

But the Gunners were level shortly before the hour mark courtesy of an own goal from Ingrid Engen after goalkeeper Christiane Endler failed to gather the ball.

And they took the lead when Olivia Smith took advantage of another mix-up at the back late in the game.

The two sides met at the same stage of the competition last season, with Arsenal winning 5-3 on aggregate before going on to lift the trophy with victory against Barcelona in the final.

Lyon drew first blood at the Emirates on Sunday when Brand surged forward and cut inside before beating Arsenal goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar with a confident finish.

ALSO READ | Barcelona held at Bayern in Women’s Champions League semifinals

The home side thought it had been offered a way back into the game when it was awarded a penalty five minutes after the restart, but the decision was overturned after a VAR check.

But Arsenal was level in the 58th minute when Mariona Caldentey’s low free-kick somehow made its way into the net. Lyon’s Endler mishandled the ball, and then Engen touched it into her own goal.

Kadidiatou Diani rattled the crossbar as the French team threatened to re-take the lead but it was Arsenal which scored again.

Endler and Engen had a moment of miscommunication, and Smith showed perseverance to poke the ball home in the 83rd minute.

The second leg takes place in Lyon next weekend.

Published on Apr 26, 2026

#Arsenal #punishes #Lyon #errors #UEFA #Womens #Champions #League #semifinal #leg

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