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Deadspin | Santiago Moreno, FC Dallas put unbeaten streak on line vs. Galaxy Apr 11, 2026; Frisco, Texas, USA; FC Dallas forward Santiago Moreno (10) dribbles the ball as St. Louis CITY SC midfielder Conrad Wallem (6) defends during the second half at Toyota Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images FC Dallas, with Santiago Moreno’s arrival this year adding to an already potent attack led by Petar Musa, will try to keep their early-season form going Saturday night when they continue a homestand against the Los Angeles Galaxy in Frisco, Texas. Moreno enjoyed 4 1/2 good years in Portland, scoring 20 goals and adding 40 assists in 131 fixtures for the Timbers. But a high-profile transfer to Brazilian side Fluminense resulted in Moreno logging just 18 minutes total. Fluminense loaned Moreno to Dallas for the season’s balance with an option to make it permanent at year’s end. He believes he can help Dallas (3-1-3, 12 points) become a contender in MLS’ Western Conference. “The few times I’ve been able to train with the group, I’ve felt very good,” Moreno said. “They train a lot on the physical side and that is vital in a team, so I’m just waiting to adapt to keep competing.” Moreno figures to slot in as a central playmaker for Dallas, providing service for Musa and Logan Farrington, who have combined for 11 of the team’s 15 goals. FC Dallas are on a four-match unbeaten streak (2-0-2). Meanwhile, the Galaxy (2-3-2, 8 points) aim to bounce back from a 3-0 loss to Toluca on Wednesday night in the quarterfinals of the CONCACAF Champions Cup in Carson, Calif. Needing to win by three goals to advance on aggregate, Los Angeles didn’t come close, falling 7-2 in the series overall. “We’ve got to answer the bell here and we’ve got to respond,” Galaxy coach Greg Vanney said. Los Angeles did at least win its latest MLS fixture, edging Austin FC 2-1 on April 11 for its first victory since a 3-0 rout of Charlotte FC on Feb. 28. The Galaxy have fired 51 shots on target, the top total in the league, but rank in the middle of the pack with 10 goals. Captain Maya Yoshida was agitated when asked after the Wednesday loss if it was good that the team could now focus on its league schedule. “We have to make it good,” he said. “We have no choice.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Santiago #Moreno #Dallas #put #unbeaten #streak #line #Galaxy

Deadspin | Santiago Moreno, FC Dallas put unbeaten streak on line vs. Galaxy
Deadspin | Santiago Moreno, FC Dallas put unbeaten streak on line vs. Galaxy Apr 11, 2026; Frisco, Texas, USA; FC Dallas forward Santiago Moreno (10) dribbles the ball as St. Louis CITY SC midfielder Conrad Wallem (6) defends during the second half at Toyota Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images FC Dallas, with Santiago Moreno’s arrival this year adding to an already potent attack led by Petar Musa, will try to keep their early-season form going Saturday night when they continue a homestand against the Los Angeles Galaxy in Frisco, Texas. Moreno enjoyed 4 1/2 good years in Portland, scoring 20 goals and adding 40 assists in 131 fixtures for the Timbers. But a high-profile transfer to Brazilian side Fluminense resulted in Moreno logging just 18 minutes total. Fluminense loaned Moreno to Dallas for the season’s balance with an option to make it permanent at year’s end. He believes he can help Dallas (3-1-3, 12 points) become a contender in MLS’ Western Conference. “The few times I’ve been able to train with the group, I’ve felt very good,” Moreno said. “They train a lot on the physical side and that is vital in a team, so I’m just waiting to adapt to keep competing.” Moreno figures to slot in as a central playmaker for Dallas, providing service for Musa and Logan Farrington, who have combined for 11 of the team’s 15 goals. FC Dallas are on a four-match unbeaten streak (2-0-2). Meanwhile, the Galaxy (2-3-2, 8 points) aim to bounce back from a 3-0 loss to Toluca on Wednesday night in the quarterfinals of the CONCACAF Champions Cup in Carson, Calif. Needing to win by three goals to advance on aggregate, Los Angeles didn’t come close, falling 7-2 in the series overall. “We’ve got to answer the bell here and we’ve got to respond,” Galaxy coach Greg Vanney said. Los Angeles did at least win its latest MLS fixture, edging Austin FC 2-1 on April 11 for its first victory since a 3-0 rout of Charlotte FC on Feb. 28. The Galaxy have fired 51 shots on target, the top total in the league, but rank in the middle of the pack with 10 goals. Captain Maya Yoshida was agitated when asked after the Wednesday loss if it was good that the team could now focus on its league schedule. “We have to make it good,” he said. “We have no choice.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Santiago #Moreno #Dallas #put #unbeaten #streak #line #GalaxyApr 11, 2026; Frisco, Texas, USA; FC Dallas forward Santiago Moreno (10) dribbles the ball as St. Louis CITY SC midfielder Conrad Wallem (6) defends during the second half at Toyota Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

FC Dallas, with Santiago Moreno’s arrival this year adding to an already potent attack led by Petar Musa, will try to keep their early-season form going Saturday night when they continue a homestand against the Los Angeles Galaxy in Frisco, Texas.

Moreno enjoyed 4 1/2 good years in Portland, scoring 20 goals and adding 40 assists in 131 fixtures for the Timbers. But a high-profile transfer to Brazilian side Fluminense resulted in Moreno logging just 18 minutes total.

Fluminense loaned Moreno to Dallas for the season’s balance with an option to make it permanent at year’s end. He believes he can help Dallas (3-1-3, 12 points) become a contender in MLS’ Western Conference.

“The few times I’ve been able to train with the group, I’ve felt very good,” Moreno said. “They train a lot on the physical side and that is vital in a team, so I’m just waiting to adapt to keep competing.”

Moreno figures to slot in as a central playmaker for Dallas, providing service for Musa and Logan Farrington, who have combined for 11 of the team’s 15 goals.


FC Dallas are on a four-match unbeaten streak (2-0-2).

Meanwhile, the Galaxy (2-3-2, 8 points) aim to bounce back from a 3-0 loss to Toluca on Wednesday night in the quarterfinals of the CONCACAF Champions Cup in Carson, Calif. Needing to win by three goals to advance on aggregate, Los Angeles didn’t come close, falling 7-2 in the series overall.

“We’ve got to answer the bell here and we’ve got to respond,” Galaxy coach Greg Vanney said.

Los Angeles did at least win its latest MLS fixture, edging Austin FC 2-1 on April 11 for its first victory since a 3-0 rout of Charlotte FC on Feb. 28. The Galaxy have fired 51 shots on target, the top total in the league, but rank in the middle of the pack with 10 goals.

Captain Maya Yoshida was agitated when asked after the Wednesday loss if it was good that the team could now focus on its league schedule.

“We have to make it good,” he said. “We have no choice.”


–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Santiago #Moreno #Dallas #put #unbeaten #streak #line #Galaxy

Sports news

Apr 11, 2026; Frisco, Texas, USA; FC Dallas forward Santiago Moreno (10) dribbles the ball as St. Louis CITY SC midfielder Conrad Wallem (6) defends during the second half at Toyota Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

FC Dallas, with Santiago Moreno’s arrival this year adding to an already potent attack led by Petar Musa, will try to keep their early-season form going Saturday night when they continue a homestand against the Los Angeles Galaxy in Frisco, Texas.

Moreno enjoyed 4 1/2 good years in Portland, scoring 20 goals and adding 40 assists in 131 fixtures for the Timbers. But a high-profile transfer to Brazilian side Fluminense resulted in Moreno logging just 18 minutes total.

Fluminense loaned Moreno to Dallas for the season’s balance with an option to make it permanent at year’s end. He believes he can help Dallas (3-1-3, 12 points) become a contender in MLS’ Western Conference.

“The few times I’ve been able to train with the group, I’ve felt very good,” Moreno said. “They train a lot on the physical side and that is vital in a team, so I’m just waiting to adapt to keep competing.”

Moreno figures to slot in as a central playmaker for Dallas, providing service for Musa and Logan Farrington, who have combined for 11 of the team’s 15 goals.

FC Dallas are on a four-match unbeaten streak (2-0-2).

Meanwhile, the Galaxy (2-3-2, 8 points) aim to bounce back from a 3-0 loss to Toluca on Wednesday night in the quarterfinals of the CONCACAF Champions Cup in Carson, Calif. Needing to win by three goals to advance on aggregate, Los Angeles didn’t come close, falling 7-2 in the series overall.

“We’ve got to answer the bell here and we’ve got to respond,” Galaxy coach Greg Vanney said.

Los Angeles did at least win its latest MLS fixture, edging Austin FC 2-1 on April 11 for its first victory since a 3-0 rout of Charlotte FC on Feb. 28. The Galaxy have fired 51 shots on target, the top total in the league, but rank in the middle of the pack with 10 goals.

Captain Maya Yoshida was agitated when asked after the Wednesday loss if it was good that the team could now focus on its league schedule.

“We have to make it good,” he said. “We have no choice.”

–Field Level Media

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#Deadspin #Santiago #Moreno #Dallas #put #unbeaten #streak #line #Galaxy

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WrestleMania 2026: Full card, match predictions, and how to watch <div id="zephr-anchor"><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">The biggest weekend in professional wrestling is back with Las Vegas hosting WWE WrestleMania 42 from Allegiant Stadium, home of the Raiders. The two-night mega show always serves as WWE’s season finale, of sorts, closing the biggest storylines, dripping with celebrity involvement, and putting on a spectacle like nothing else.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">This year’s Mania feels different. It’s a show that has been constructed less with wrestling fans in mind, and more about capturing broad appeal. With the full weight of ESPN’s promotional strength behind them we’ve had Pat McAfee get attacked on his set, Danhausen curse Stephen A. Smith — with a focus on Gen-Z and Gen-Alpha with the addition of streamer IShowSpeed to the card. Let’s break down both nights of WrestleMania with predictions for how it will all go down.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h4 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup"><strong>The Vision (Logan Paul and Austin Theory) and IShowSpeed vs. The Usos (Jimmy and Hey Uso) and LA Knight</strong></h4></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">There’s no reason to dive deep into this one. They put IShowSpeed on the card for a reason, and teaming him with Logan Paul makes this one obvious.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1"><strong><em>Winner: The Vision and IShowSpeed</em></strong></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h4 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Jacob Fatu vs. Drew McIntyre</h4></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">This is one of the guaranteed two wrestling bangers on the card for night one. Two extremely athletic men for their size are going to put on a slugfest with a few big high-spots to pop the crowd. The plan here has to be elevating Fatu into the title picture, which I think is the plan here.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h4 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup"><strong>The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax and Lash Legend) (c) vs. Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss vs. Bayley and Lyra Valkyrie vs. The Bella Twins (Brie and Nikki Bella) — WWE Women’s Tag-Team Championship</strong></h4></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">There’s a lot of talent here, but the match is overbooked. There’s a good chance this could get too sloppy as a result of having all these disparate forces in the ring at once. There’s really only one pick that makes sense to me given the build for this match and how stale the women’s tag-team division has been of late.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1"><strong><em>Winner: Bayley and Lyra Valkyrie</em></strong></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h4 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">AJ Lee (c) vs. Becky Lynch — WWE Women’s Intercontinental Championship</h4></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">The return of AJ Lee has been really fun, as has her title run — but it ends at WrestleMania. This is about getting Becky Lynch back in the women’s championship picture as a stepping stone to her returning to being one of the biggest names in wrestling. The match quality of this one is an utter mystery, but as far as I’m concerned the end result is clear as day.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">A bit of a strange build to this one as WWE had to pivot after Bronn Breaker was injured to set up a program for Rollins and Gunther. Two of the best pure workers in the company, Rollins especially has a gift for putting on a mammoth show on the brightest stage. I think there’s enough intrigue in a quickness vs. strength match here to make it interesting, but I also think the result is clear with WWE sticking to the booking they had planned leading up to this.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h4 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup"><strong>Stephanie Vaquer (c) vs. Liv Morgan — Women’s World Championship</strong></h4></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">There’s been a rocket strapped to Liv Morgan’s back ever since she returned from injury, and this is the natural conclusion. Vaquer is the best women’s wrestler on the planet from an in-ring perspective, but WWE covets much more than simply being able to go. That makes this pick somewhat easy.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h4 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup"><strong>Cody Rhodes (c) vs. Randy Orton (with Pat McAfee) — Undisputed WWE Championship</strong></h4></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">The main event to night one has been brewing for months, with Rhodes and Orton being extremely close real-life friends. It’s been a really messy build that’s tried to involve a hundred different angles at once, including Jelly Roll for some reason. They’re both getting up in age, especially Randy Orton, but they have the capability of putting on one last banger — unless messy booking turns this into a celebrity-fest.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">The big stipulation to this match is that if Orton loses, then McAfee has to walk away from professional wrestling. There’s too much shared investment for WWE and ESPN to have that happen, so I’m following the money</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h4 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Oba Femi vs. Brock Lesnar</h4></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Without a doubt this is the match people seem most hyped for in the lead up to WrestleMania. WWE has been establishing Oba Femi as the new monster destined to take over the mantle of “big scary” in wrestling, and to do that he needs to get through the gatekeeper. The plan here is to legitimize Femi as the future, and this match will do just that.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h4 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Penta (c) vs. Rusev vs. Je’Von Evans vs. Dragon Lee vs. JD McDonagh vs. Rey Mysterio — Ladder Match for the WWE Intercontinental Championship</h4></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">This could be terrifying with there being so many people in this match who value putting on a show over their own bodies. A multi-person ladder match is always something to watch for the high spots, but when the dust settles there’s only one outcome that really clicks for me and that’s Penta retaining. He is so over with the audience that cutting his legs out from under him isn’t the move here.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h4 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Sami Zayn (c) vs. Trick Williams (with Lil Yachty) — WWE Intercontinental Championship</h4></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Sami Zayn is one of my favorite wrestlers of all time, and it’s growing apparent that he’s never going to actually get his moment in the sun. That could be because of Zayn being outspoken on social media about social issues, maybe they just see him as being too small — who knows? One thing that is certain is that you don’t bring out Lil Yachty at WrestleMania to have his guy lose. Trick Williams deserves a title run, and this is it.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h4 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">“The Demon” Finn Balor vs. Dominik Mysterio</h4></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Who cares? For the life of me I still don’t really understand what WWE sees in Dom, but I know I might be in the minority. At this point they think he’s a future star, but you also don’t have Demon Balor lose in a match like this. I think there will be some shenanigans to make Balor look strong, but he still loses.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h4 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Jade Cargill (c) vs. Rhea Ripley — WWE Women’s Championship</h4></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Jade Cargill is the total package … except for the not being able to wrestle thing. Catapulted into the limelight because of her astonishing look, this title reign has never worked simply because she’s not good enough in the ring to have solid matches with established pro wrestlers. This is a chance to course-correct, and put the strap back on Rhea Ripley.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h4 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">CM Punk (c) vs. Roman Reigns — World Heavyweight Championship</h4></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">This match is a total tossup. Logic generally dictates that we have one title change on WrestleMania weekend, and I have that going to Randy Orton the night before. However, when I look at the long-term plans of WWE it has to involve putting Reigns back as champion, even if he’s more or less a part-time worker at this point. Punk is a guy who is always better on the chase than being the champ, so I’m going to go with my heart on this one.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">How to watch WWE WrestleMania 2026</h2></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1"><strong>Date</strong>: Saturday, April 18 (Night 1) and Sunday, April 19 (Night 2)</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1"><strong>Location</strong>: Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1"><strong>Stream</strong>: ESPN Unlimited (via the ESPN app) for viewers in the United States. Netflix for international viewers.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1"><em>The first hour of both nights airing on ESPN2 (Saturday) and ESPN (Sunday) at 6 p.m. ET. </em></p></div></div> #WrestleMania #Full #card #match #predictions #watch

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IPL 2026: Struggling Kolkata Knight Riders looks for foothold against high-flying Rajasthan Royals <div id="content-body-70877601" itemprop="articleBody"><p>If performance were currency in the Indian Premier League, third-placed Rajasthan Royals (RR) would have its wallet full while bottom-feeding Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) would be left searching under the couch cushions.</p><p>Notwithstanding the minor blip in its last game against Sunrisers Hyderabad, RR seems to have cracked the Twenty20 code, but Ajinkya Rahane and Co. have made losing look alarmingly routine.</p><p>As the schedule throws them together in the sultry afternoon conditions of the Eden Gardens here on Sunday, it is time to find out whether creative faculty does indeed trump desperation.</p><p><b>ALSO READ | <a href="https://sportstar.thehindu.com/cricket/ipl/ipl-2026-gt-vs-kkr-captain-ajinkya-rahane-on-kolkata-knight-riders-loss-cameron-green-form-no-bowling/article70876460.ece" target="_blank">Rahane focusses on positives after KKR’s loss</a></b></p><p>Kumar Sangakkara, RR’s head coach and director of cricket, hasn’t dropped guard despite the opponent’s winless form guide reading like a cry for help after six games. He said, “They’re a very tough and good side. But it’s about concentrating on what we do well. And then trying to do that over the course of 240 balls. We don’t take any side easy. Records don’t matter for anything when you play head-to-head.”</p><p>Statistics would say Sangakkara is being too generous. The PowerPlay, in fact, may end up dictating proceedings. For RR, thanks to electric starts from Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, has the highest boundary percentage in the first six overs at 34.44. KKR batters have done only marginally better than Lucknow Super Giants (19.44) and Delhi Capitals (22.60) with 23.76.</p><div class=" article-picture center"><img src="https://ss-i.thgim.com/public/incoming/8f2ge9/article70877607.ece/alternates/FREE_1200/2150_7_4_2026_22_23_25_1_IPL_07032026_07.JPG" data-original="https://ss-i.thgim.com/public/incoming/8f2ge9/article70877607.ece/alternates/FREE_1200/2150_7_4_2026_22_23_25_1_IPL_07032026_07.JPG" alt="Vaibhav Sooryavanshi will once again be the player to watch out for, as Rajasthan Royals take on KKR." title="Vaibhav Sooryavanshi will once again be the player to watch out for, as Rajasthan Royals take on KKR." class=" lazy" width="100%" height="100%"/><div class="pic-caption"><figcaption class="figure-caption align-text-bottom"><p> Vaibhav Sooryavanshi will once again be the player to watch out for, as Rajasthan Royals take on KKR. | Photo Credit: RITU RAJ KONWAR </p><img class="caption-image" src="https://assetsss.thehindu.com/theme/images/SSRX/lightbox-info.svg" alt="lightbox-info"/></figcaption></div><p class="caption"> Vaibhav Sooryavanshi will once again be the player to watch out for, as Rajasthan Royals take on KKR. | Photo Credit: RITU RAJ KONWAR </p></div><p>Adding salt to its wounds are KKR’s bowlers. They have conceded 60.5 runs on average per wicket in the first 36 balls—the worst for any team. Meanwhile, no team has fared better than RR’s 20.69 in this regard.</p><p>With how the season has turned out, the host would be thanking its stars it didn’t have to face the media on Saturday. The team touched down at 5:10pm after another humiliating defeat in Ahmedabad the previous night.</p><p class="publish-time" id="end-of-article">Published on Apr 18, 2026</p></div> #IPL #Struggling #Kolkata #Knight #Riders #foothold #highflying #Rajasthan #Royals

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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.

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

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

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

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

Here’s where she might land.

The best fit: Golden State Valkyries

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

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

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

Second-best option: Dallas Wings

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

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

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

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

Dark horse team: Washington Mystics

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

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

#potential #Kelsey #Plum #trade #destinations #ranked">3 potential Kelsey Plum trade destinations, ranked The Los Angeles Sparks are 10-17, and as such, star guard Kelsey Plum could be on the move. LA Times reporter Marisa Ingemi reported on Wednesday that the Sparks will most likely trade Plum by Sunday’s WNBA midseason trade deadline — and that they’ve gotten interest from multiples teams across the league.It’s a notable development, as the 31-year-old has established herself as one of the best guards in the league. Plum is in the middle of a career year in which she’s averaging 23.9 points and 6.4 assists, while shooting 52.7% from the field and 38.3% from three. At the same time, she’s had an injury-riddled campaign; she’s appeared in just 12 of 27 games due to multiple lower leg injuries.While there hasn’t been much concrete reporting about where Plum could land, there are several destinations that could make a lot of sense. The Sparks have until Sunday at 2pm ET to make their decision.Here’s where she might land.The best fit: Golden State ValkyriesThe Valkyries have lost back-to-back games (albeit one without Gabby Williams) but have otherwise been one of the season’s best storylines. They’re 19-9 and poised for a playoff run, but, despite their league-best defense could they be missing some star power? Gabby Williams, Veronica Burton, and Janelle Salaun have all had big-time season, but none can create for themselves at such high volume the way Plum can.Golden State could be making a move with the intention of winning a title now, and based on how they’ve performed this season, that’s certainly within the realm of possibility. But, if they can receive some assurance from Plum that she’d re-sign in the offseason — she’s currently on an expiring 9,999 contract — that’d make a trade all the more sensical.Valkyries head coach Natalie Nakase is very familiar with Plum, having coached her in Las Vegas, which could make the midseason transition even easier. Plum would be a great fit alongside Burton, Williams, and the rest of the Golden State cast.Second-best option: Dallas WingsThe Wings could be going all-in ahead of the trade deadline. That’s what general manager Curt Miller indicated last week at All-Star weekend.“You can’t be afraid to rip the Band-Aid off and make moves to try and go for it,” he said. “You’re not always in a championship window.”Paige Bueckers and Jessica Shepard have both had big-time seasons this year, and Azzi Fudd is having an outstanding rookie campaign. But, could Dallas be interested in flipping Arike Ogunbowale, who is shooting just 37.8% from the field, for a more effective offensive player? Or, is there a way to offload Alanna Smith, who has struggled in a surprisingly limited role so far this season?Plum will give them an undoubtable boost on the offensive end, and create a lethal backcourt trio alongside Bueckers and Fudd. But, some frontcourt defensive questions remain, even if Dallas pulls the trigger on this transaction.Dark horse team: Washington MysticsThe Mystics are in the playoff hunt and have a very bright future, in large part due to a core led by Kiki Iriafen, Sonia Citron, and Shakira Austin. But, they’re probably not championship contenders, at least not right now. So, they’ll have to think twice before mortgaging their future for a player who may choose not to re-sign in the offseason.Still, Washington has one of the league’s top defenses, meaning they could be a good landing spot for Plum, who at times has been a defensive liabiliy (Sydney Johnson’s system shoudl allow her to thrive). The Mystics have plenty of young players and draft assets they could move in a trade. The only question is whether it’s worth it to go all-in now, when they’re probably still a year or two away from being championship contenders. #potential #Kelsey #Plum #trade #destinations #ranked

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