Tom Brady appeared to do something during Saturday’s Pittsburgh Steelers-Baltimore Ravens game that he hasn’t often done during his first season as an NFL broadcaster: he seemingly took a shot at a couple of NFL players in his analysis of Ravens linebacker Kyle Van Noy.

It started when Brady was prompted by his play-by-play counterpart, Kevin Burkhardt, to elaborate on what Van Noy was like as a teammate. Brady offered high praise of Van Noy, who he played with for parts of four seasons with the New England Patriots, and outlined that the 33-year-old played through a painful injury at the beginning of the 2024 NFL season.

‘He broke his eye socket earlier this season,’ Brady said. ‘He basically played with a broken face.’

That’s when Brady appeared to use Van Noy’s resilience to make an example of a couple of other NFL players.

‘I see other guys in the league walking out on their teammates because they don’t want to play,’ Brady quipped.

NFL STATS CENTRAL: The latest NFL scores, schedules, odds, stats and more.

Brady didn’t mention any players specifically by name, but he was almost certainly referring to San Francisco 49ers linebacker De’Vondre Campbell and former Ravens wide receiver Diontae Johnson. Both refused to play for their respective teams in recent weeks and each was punished for it.

Campbell’s incident occurred during the 49ers’ Week 15 ‘Thursday Night Football’ game against the Los Angeles Rams. The veteran linebacker was bumped out of the starting lineup by the return of Dre Greenlaw and didn’t play before Greenlaw was hurt in the second half of the contest.

Kyle Shanahan said Campbell was asked to enter the game after the injury. But Campbell refused, and left the field. San Francisco’s coaches and players were upset with Campbell and the team eventually suspended him for its final three games.

Johnson had a similar situation unfold in Baltimore. The team said he refused to play in the Week 13 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles despite the team suffering several receiver injuries in the contest. He was suspended for the team’s Week 15 game before he and the Ravens ultimately decided to part ways ahead of Week 16.

It isn’t clear whether Campbell or Johnson will notice – or care – about Brady’s comments. Neither immediately responded to them on social media platforms, but perhaps Johnson will be asked about them if he lands with a new team before the end of the 2024 NFL season.

What is clear is that Brady doesn’t approve of the actions either player took, and it’s easy to understand why. Brady played 23 NFL seasons, making an NFL-high 333 regular-season starts and a record 48 postseason starts during his career.

No. 5 Texas is moving on in the College Football Playoff but the Longhorns got a bigger scare than expected from No. 12 Clemson.

The Longhorns used a dominant running game and the precision passing of Quinn Ewers to take a comfortable lead in the second half before the Tigers rallied. A long touchdown run by Jaydon Blue and a fourth-and-goal stop righted things as the Longhorns prevailed 38-24.

The Longhorns offense put up 292 yards on the ground with Blue leading the way with 146 yards and two touchdowns. Quintrevion Wisner added 110 yards on 15 carries with two rushing scores. Ewers completed 17 of 24 passes for 202 yards and one touchdown.

Texas advances to face No. 4 seed Arizona State in the Peach Bowl on Jan. 1.

The Longhorns were ahead 31-10 in the third quarter, but Clemson quarterback Cade Klubik responded by throwing for two touchdowns, the second with 11 minutes remaining, to make things interesting. But Blue ran 77 yards for a score two plays later to restore the lead to 14. Texas effectively preserved the win by dropping Keith Adams Jr. for a 1-yard loss from the 1 on fourth down.

The win was the first in the CFP for the Longhorns, who lost in last year’s semifinals to Washington in the Sugar Bowl. This year’s team lost twice in the regular season. Both were decisions to Georgia — the first convincingly at home and the second in overtime of the SEC championship.

BIG MISTAKE: Indiana should never have been in the playoff field

Clemson received the opening kickoff and opened with a 12-play, 75-yard drive that mixed short passes and runs by Klubnik. It ended with Klubnik finding Antonio Williams for a 22-yard scoring pass.

Texas answered immediately with its own 12-play touchdown drive, converting a fourth down inside the Clemson 10 before Wisner found the end zone on a 3-yard run on the ensuing play. On their second possession, Blue would run 38 yards for another touchdown to give the Longhorns their first lead, and Wisner added a 16-yard scoring run midway through the second quarter to put them in control.

The lead for Texas was 28-10 at halftime after Ewers hit Gunner Helm for a 19-yard touchdowns with 28 seconds left in the second quarter. The Longhorns outgained Clemson 289-182 before the break. The 28 points were the most allowed by the Tigers in the first half this season.

Clemson’s three-year absence from the playoff ended when Miami lost in its final regular-season game to Syracuse, sending the Tigers to the ACC title game, and Clemson then defeated SMU with a 56-yard field goal on the final play to earn one of the five spots given to the highest-rated conference champions.

Klubnik finished 26 of 43 for 336 yards and three touchdowns with one interception.

Every week for the duration of the 2024 NFL regular season, USA TODAY Sports will provide timely updates to the league’s ever-evolving playoff picture − typically starting after Sunday afternoon’s late games and then moving forward for the remainder of the week (through Monday’s and Thursday’s games or Saturday’s, if applicable).

What just happened? What does it mean? What are the pertinent factors (and, perhaps, tiebreakers) prominently in play as each conference’s seven-team bracket begins to crystallize? All will be explained and analyzed up to the point when the postseason field is finalized on Sunday, Jan. 5.

Here’s where things stand with Week 16 of the 2024 season underway:

NFC playoff picture

x – 1. Detroit Lions (12-2), NFC North leaders: After getting stomped by Buffalo on Sunday, they’re now in a three-way tie atop the conference and deadlocked for the division lead following the Vikings’ win Monday night. A Week 7 win over Minnesota and conference record (8-1) that’s one game better than Philly are the tiebreakers currently serving the Lions, who may still need to win out to keep their divisional throne. Remaining schedule: at Bears, at 49ers, vs. Vikings

NFL STATS CENTRAL: The latest NFL scores, schedules, odds, stats and more.

x – 2. Philadelphia Eagles (12-2), NFC East leaders: Winners of 10 straight, they could not clinch the division following Washington’s victory in New Orleans but can do so by ousting the Commanders on Sunday afternoon. Still, the Iggles did pull even with Detroit, but they’ll need another Lions slip-up to move into the conference’s top spot. Remaining schedule: at Commanders, vs. Cowboys, vs. Giants

3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-6), NFC South leaders: They embarrassed the Chargers in Week 15, which means – regardless of Atlanta’s triumph Monday night – the Bucs remain atop the division. Seattle’s loss pushed them up a spot, Tampa Bay with a better record (6-3) in conference games than the Rams (5-5). Remaining schedule: at Cowboys, vs. Panthers, vs. Saints

4. Los Angeles Rams (8-6), NFC West leaders: Win out, and they are division champs. LA overtook the Seahawks on Sunday night by virtue of their Week 9 victory at Seattle. Remaining schedule: at Jets, vs. Cardinals, vs. Seahawks

x – 5. Minnesota Vikings (12-2), wild card No. 1: They clinched a spot Sunday night thanks to Seattle’s loss. Monday’s victory over Chicago means the Vikes control their own fate in the NFC North – win out, and the division is theirs … and, perhaps, the No. 1 seed, too. Remaining schedule: at Seahawks, vs. Packers, at Lions

6. Green Bay Packers (10-4), wild card No. 2: Getting swept by Detroit and losing once already to Minnesota pretty much relegates the Pack to wild-card status. Win this Monday, and they lock into the postseason field … unless other circumstances put them in sooner. Remaining schedule: vs. Saints, at Vikings, vs. Bears

7. Washington Commanders (9-5), wild card No. 3: They barely survived the Saints, but it was enough to keep them alive one more week in the division with the NFC East still technically up for grabs. With a win and some help, the Commanders can punch their playoff ticket Sunday. Remaining schedule: vs. Eagles, vs. Falcons, at Cowboys

8. Seattle Seahawks (8-6), in the hunt: Sunday night’s loss to Green Bay dropped them not only out of the NFC West lead but from the projected field entirely. But, like the Rams, winning out would put Seattle atop the division. Remaining schedule: vs. Vikings, at Bears, at Rams

9. Atlanta Falcons (7-7), in the hunt: Their four-game losing streak is over after they labored past the Raiders on Monday, though it did necessitate a quarterback change. Catch the Bucs, whom the Dirty Birds swept, and they’re back atop the NFC South. A 6-3 mark in NFC games puts them three games ahead of Arizona as it pertains to that tiebreaker. Remaining schedule: vs. Giants, at Commanders, vs. Panthers

10. Arizona Cardinals (7-7), in the hunt: They broke a three-game skid by beating the Patriots but, at this point, probably need the NFC West field to come back to them. Remaining schedule: at Panthers, at Rams, vs. 49ers

11. San Francisco 49ers (6-8), in the hunt: The reigning NFC champs have less than a 1% chance to qualify for postseason, per NFL.com. Been that kind of season. Remaining schedule: at Dolphins, vs. Lions, at Cardinals

12. Dallas Cowboys (6-8), in the hunt: Like the Niners, whom they lost to in Week 8, their postseason hopes are on life support despite Sunday’s win in Charlotte. Remaining schedule: vs. Buccaneers, at Eagles, vs. Commanders

All NFL news on and off the field. Sign up for USA TODAY’s 4th and Monday newsletter.

AFC playoff picture

y – 1. Kansas City Chiefs (14-1), AFC West champions: QB Patrick Mahomes weathered Saturday’s win over Houston, which means K.C. gets the No. 1 seed if Buffalo loses Sunday. One more Chiefs win also guaranteed the AFC’s Super Bowl path will go through Arrowhead. Remaining schedule: at Steelers, at Broncos

y – 2. Buffalo Bills (11-3), AFC East champions: Sunday’s win in Detroit probably does more for their collective psyche than it really does for their playoff positioning right now. Pittsburgh’s loss makes the Bills’ second-place standing in the conference more comfortable … as does a very inviting closing stretch. Remaining schedule: vs. Patriots, vs. Jets, at Patriots

x – 3. Pittsburgh Steelers (10-5), AFC North leaders: Rough Saturday. First, They fell out of the running for the No. 1 seed by virtue of Kansas City’s win. Then, Pittsburgh fumbled an opportunity to clinch the division. Looks like they’re in a dogfight the rest of the way with Baltimore, which appears to have the more inviting schedule to close the regular season. The Steelers retain first place in the division – for now – by virtue of a one-game lead over the Ravens in AFC games, i.e., not much at all. Remaining schedule: vs. Chiefs, vs. Bengals

y – 4. Houston Texans (9-6), AFC South champions: They rule a weak division for the second straight year but are just about locked in as the fourth seed … which will mean a tough wild-card matchup. Remaining schedule: vs. Ravens, at Titans

x – 5. Baltimore Ravens (10-5), wild card No. 1: What a Christmas present. They clinched their postseason spot, averted a Pittsburgh AFC North crown, are now very much alive themselves to win the division … and might have recaptured the Super Bowl form they showed earlier in the season. Remaining schedule: at Texans, vs. Browns

6. Los Angeles Chargers (9-6), wild card No. 2: By sweeping the Broncos for the first time in 14 years, they prevented Denver from clinching Thursday while leapfrogging their division rivals and picking up the tiebreaker (by virtue of the sweep). One more win locks Bolts into the field … unless the Colts and Dolphins do it for them by both losing on Sunday afternoon. Remaining schedule: at Patriots, at Raiders

7. Denver Broncos (9-6), wild card No. 3: They had a win-and-in scenario Thursday to stamp their first postseason trip since winning Super Bowl 50 nine years ago. Now, they can’t get in this weekend unless the Colts, Dolphins and Bengals all lose. Still, one more win, and the Broncos advance to the playoffs … though much could be at stake when they head to Cincinnati in Week 17. Remaining schedule: at Bengals, vs. Chiefs

8. Indianapolis Colts (6-8), in the hunt: After Week 15’s loss at Denver, it’s basically over. Remaining schedule: vs. Titans, at Giants, vs. Jaguars

9. Miami Dolphins (6-8), in the hunt: After Week 15’s loss at Houston, it’s basically over. Remaining schedule: vs. 49ers, at Browns, at Jets

10. Cincinnati Bengals (6-8), in the hunt: They won last Sunday, meaning there’s still a faint pulse for a dangerous team many others wouldn’t want to see next month. A 3-6 conference mark keeps them buried behind the Fins and Colts presently. Remaining schedule: vs. Browns, vs. Broncos, at Steelers

NFL playoff clinching scenarios for Week 16

Kansas City clinches AFC’s No. 1 seed with:

Buffalo loss or tie

Denver clinches playoff berth with:

Miami loss or tie + Cincinnati loss or tie + Indianapolis loss or tie

Los Angeles Chargers clinch playoff berth with:

Miami loss or tie + Indianapolis loss or tie

Philadelphia clinches NFC East with:

Win or tie

Green Bay clinches playoff berth with:

Win or tie
Atlanta loss or tie + LA Rams loss or tie
Atlanta loss or tie + Seattle loss or tie

Washington clinches playoff berth with:

Win + Atlanta loss or tie + LA Rams loss or tie
Win + Atlanta loss or tie + Seattle loss or tie
Tie + Atlanta loss + Arizona loss or tie + LA Rams loss or tie + Seattle loss or tie (as long as Rams and Seahawks both don’t tie)

NFL teams eliminated from playoff contention in 2024

x – clinched playoff berth

y – clinched division

***

Follow USA TODAY Sports’ Nate Davis on X, formerly Twitter, @ByNateDavis

Dave Stewart was too numb to move and too stunned to talk when he received the telephone call Friday that left him sobbing.

He was set to turn 66 years old on Christmas Day.

Stewart and Henderson were the best of friends. They grew up together in Oakland, played together for the Oakland Athletics, won a World Series together in Oakland, and together threw out the ceremonial last pitches before the Athletics’ final game in September at the Oakland Coliseum.

Now, three months after the Athletics franchise played its final game in Oakland, Henderson is gone.

Follow every MLB game: Latest MLB scores, stats, schedules and standings.

He was a first-ballot Hall of Famer, stealing the most bases and scoring the most runs in MLB history.

Henderson, a part-time instructor and ambassador with the A’s, who was heartbroken when the club announced it would depart Oakland, leaves an indelible mark that will be forever treasured.

If you were an A’s fan, you were a Rickey Henderson diehard.

If you were an player, you will forever cherish your favorite Rickey Henderson stories.

And if you were a lifelong friend like Dave Stewart, this was one of the worst days of your life.

Stewart, born and raised in Oakland, who won a World Series together with Henderson in 1989, said his all-time favorite moment at the Oakland Coliseum was watching Henderson break Lou Brock’s all-time career stolen base record two years later. Henderson wound up with 1,406 career stolen bases.

“When he became the king of stolen bases,’ Stewart said, “that was the greatest day for me.

“When you grow up with your homie and you watch him do great things, you feel like you’re a part of it. That’s my greatest moment.’

When Henderson broke the record, he yanked the second-base bag out of the dirt, held it high in the air, and shouted out: “I am the greatest!’

No one ever accused Henderson of humility, but he had had a flair that was unparalleled.

“Rickey just had his own style,’ said Dennis Eckersley, his former teammate and fellow Hall of Famer said.“I think he was clueless to the point where he didn’t realize he was showing people up.”

Former A’s infielder Mike Gallego once told the San Francisco Chronicle: “He had no intention of embarrassing anybody. He was playing baseball in the big leagues like he was playing in his backyard. We emulated Pete Rose and guys like that. Rickey emulated Rickey Henderson.”

Henderson, who led the league in stolen bases in 12 different seasons, averaging 74 steals a season in his 25-year-career, was a fourth-round pick of the Athletics in the 1976 draft out of Oakland Tech High School. He was drafted one year after Stewart was selected by the Los Angeles Dodgers out of St. Elizabeth High School.

They became teammates in 1989 with the A’s winning the World Series over the San Francisco Giants. Henderson was the MVP of the ALCS, hitting .400 and stealing eight bases and Stewart was the MVP of the World Series, going 2-0 with a 1.13 ERA in 16 innings.

It was the team’s first World Series win in 15 years, since Oakland was a title town in the 1970s with the A’s winning championships in 1972-74, the Golden State Warriors winning the NBA title in 1975, and the Oakland Raiders winning the 1980 Super Bowl.

This is why it was heartbreaking for Stewart and Henderson to see the team depart

“It’s disappointing to see the A’s leaving,” Henderson said. “But we’ve gone through so much with all the teams. When you have a city that had three big-name professional sports teams, and you can’t keep any of them, something’s wrong. It’s sad for the city.”

Stewart and Henderson, who moved to Oakland as a kid, first met when they were teenagers playing in Babe Ruth leagues. They later played against one another in high school, until becoming pro ballplayers, with Henderson becoming the most feared baserunner in baseball history.

“In my opinion, Rickey is one of the top three or four players to ever play the game,’ Stewart said. “I look at a guy who can carry a team not just for one or two days, but for a month or two at a time. He was just unbelievable.”

Now, he is gone, but will forever be remembered and revered by A’s fans.

“My career of being a baseball player in Oakland was fantastic,’’ Henderson said after being elected into the Hall of Fame. “I wouldn’t give it back for anything else. I had a wonderful time, the fans of Oakland were the best fans who were ever behind me and even when I was on another team, they always cheered.’

Follow Nightengale on X: @Bnightengale

The USA TODAY app gets you to the heart of the news — fast. Download for award-winning coverage, crosswords, audio storytelling, the eNewspaper and more.

At least, that’s what the Volunteers’ pregame attire would suggest.

Cameras captured several players from the ninth-ranked Vols (10-2) enter pregame warmups shirtless at Ohio Stadium in Columbus, Ohio — seemingly to dispel the narrative they will be adversely affected by the cold temperatures ahead of the College Football Playoff first-round game at No. 8 Ohio State (10-2).

The temperature on the field was 25 degrees ahead of the 8 p.m. ET matchup, which will determine who advances to play No. 1 Oregon in the Rose Bowl quarterfinal on New Year’s Day.

A few minutes later, the players put on their shirts. According to a rule change passed in 2020, the NCAA requires players to wear shirts that display their jersey numbers during pregame warmups. According to the NCAA, ‘Players without their numeral readily visible must leave the playing enclosure.’

But the message had been sent: The Vols won’t be scared away by the weather in Columbus, in the biggest game of their season so far.

The Texans are already dealing with their fair share of injuries at receiver this season, but added another unfortunate one on Saturday.

While the team is enjoying having Nico Collins back in the fold, they are without Stefon Diggs for the season and now will have to hold their breath on Tank Dell.

The second-year receiver went down in a heap of pain following a touchdown catch in the third quarter of Saturday’s game, holding his knee.

Here’s the latest on Dell.

NFL STATS CENTRAL: The latest NFL scores, schedules, odds, stats and more.

Tank Dell injury update

NBC’s Kathryn Tappen reports that Dell was taken to University of Kansas Hospital. Further, Dell’s leg was placed in a vacuum splint, which is used when there is concern for ‘a fracture or severe instability.’

Dell was quickly ruled out after he had to be carted off the field with a severe knee injury, which was the result of some friendly fire in the end zone. While he held on for the touchdown, Dell’s leg was caught underneath second-year receiver, Jared Wayne.

The reactions of the Texans’ players appeared to tell the story here, with many of them looking clearly shaken.

Quarterback C.J. Stroud was perhaps the most emotional Texans’ player on the field, visibly upset that his fellow 2023 draftee appears to, once again, have a long road to recovery ahead of him.

It marks the second consecutive season where Dell suffered an injury as a result of the friendly fire. In 2023, his season was ended with a fractured fibula after being caught in a pile around the goal line.

Texans WR depth chart

With Dell and John Metchie III out and Diggs done for the season, the Texans are quickly running out of healthy receivers. Here’s a look at the team’s depth chart of uninjured options right now:

Nico Collins
Robert Woods
Xavier Hutchinson
Jared Wayne

Tank Dell stats

Dell was in the midst of one of his better games of the season before the injury, hauling in 6-of-7 targets for 98 yards and a touchdown. He appeared primed to go over the 100-yard mark for just the second time this season before being forced out of action.

(This story has been updated.)

There was no revenge for Tyson Fury.

Fury fell to Oleksandr Usyk yet again, losing their heavyweight boxing rematch Saturday by unanimous decision after suffering a split-decision defeat in their first fight seven months ago.

Usyk again demonstrated his superior technical skill and responded each time Fury went on the attack in their 12-round heavyweight fight at the Kingdom. Usyk proved far more accurate with his punches, landing 42% (179-of-423) compared to Fury’s 28% (144-of-509), according to DAZN.

All three judges scored it 116-112 for Usyk, who retained his WBC, WBA and WBO world heavyweight titles.

Usyk had no interest in discussing the judges’ scorecards.

“I win,’’ he said during a post-fight interview on the DAZN broadcast. “Is good.’’ He added: “An unbelievable 24 rounds for my career.’

Usyk, a 37-year-old Ukrainian, improved his record to 23-0.

Fury, a 36-year-old Brit, dropped to 34-2-1, with his only professional losses coming to Usyk.

Fury said afterwards he thought he won both fights against Usyk.

“I think he got a little Christmas gift from them judges,’’ Fury said. “Christmas gift early.’’

Next up: Usyk likely will face IBF heavyweight championship Daniel Dubois if Dubois beats Joseph Parker in their heavyweight match set for Feb. 22.

Dubois, the current IBF heavyweight champion, interrupted Usyk’s in-ring interview and called for another rematch. Dubois lost to Usyk by ninth-round knockout in August 2023.

“No problem,’’ Usyk said. “I’m ready.’’

What’s next for Tyson Fury?

It’s unclear what’s next for Fury, who has previously contemplated retirement.

Fury left too quickly for an in-ring interview. But the heavyweight’s future appears to be up in the air based on comments from Fury’s manager, Frank Warren.

“You know, it’s too early,’’ Warren said. “It’s just after a fight. Obviously emotions are running high.’’

Fury didn’t offer much insight at his post-fight presser.

“What’s next for me?’’ Fury said. “I’m going home and having some time off.’’’

Days before the rematch, Fury was profane and hostile in the presence of Usyk.

‘You ugly, bug-eyed rat (expletive),’ Fury shouted at Usyk this week.

Fury also roared, “You got a gift decision. I’m the man. I’m the (expletive) champion.’

But it was the 6-foot-3 Usyk who prevailed despite the 6-foot-9 Fury’s six-inch height advantage. Fury also outweighed Usyk by 55 pounds.

At the weigh-in, Fury was 281 pounds and Usyk was 226 pounds.

Tyson Fury vs. Oleksandr Usyk, heavyweight title 

Round 1: Usyk lands an early right. They’re pawing at each other. Fury looks pudgy, which might be a generous description as he jiggles. Usyk moves forward now and Fury ready for it. Usyk lunges and scores with a left. Usyk 10, Fury 9.

Round 2: Usyk fires a quick left and it connects. Follows up with a jab to that jiggly Fury body and scores again. Fury fires two jabs and follows with a right. None land and up goes the chant: “Usyk!’’ Usyk at the center of the ring and looks in control. They trade lefts. Fury connects with a left and stuns Usyk with a shot. Usyk 19, Fury 19.

Round 3: Fury looks twitchy as he fires. Usyk responds but now circling away and out of danger. Usyk lunges with a left and another left. Maybe glancing shots. Usyk misses with a left, follows up and connects. Fury using his jab to respond. Fury lands a solid left. Fury 29, Usyk 28.

Round 4: Usyk pressures early, and Fury responds with lefts. And extra weight Fury’s carrying seems to be no detriment early. Usyk works with body. Usyk lands a big left and another. But Fury moves forward and Usyk backpedals. Fury lands a right. Fury 38, Usyk 38.

Round 5: Boxers tangled up and Fury looks to take advantage before they’re separated. Fury uncorks a nice left uppercut. But Usyk shakes his head, insists he’s not hurt. It’s Fury stalking now. Usyk lands a flurry and Fury fires right back and delivers a solid uppercut to the body. Fury with another solid right. Usyk fires a nice combination. Fury 48, Usyk 47.

Round 6: Fury’s height and weight advantage look so substantial. But it’s unsure if Fury will tire because of the weight. Boxers circling at the center of the ring. Usyk works the body and Fury responds. Usyk scores with a right and follows it up with a combination. His agility is starting to pay off. Pops Fury with a left to the kisser and finishes the round strong. Fury 57, Usyk 57. 

Round 7: Usyk opens a quick right, then clips Fury with a right. Usyk working to close the distance without exposing himself to Fury’s dangerous right. Fury connects with a short right, now working his left. Usyk connects with the left. Usyk closes with a glancing left. Usyk 67, Fury 66.

Round 8: Usyk opens with a left and Fury pushes back. Usyk will need to work hard to close the gap. Fury throws a couple of lefts and follows with an uppercut, blocked by Usyk. Usyk stalking. Usyk sneaks inside and lands body shots. Fury leaning on Usyk. That’s a load. Usyk landing punches – no head-snappers, but solid. Usyk 77,  Fury 75.

Round 9: Fury emerges more aggressive behind the left. Then lands three strong body shots. Fury coming alive. Usyk looks more passive as Fury turns up the heat. But here comes Usyk as Fury tires. Usyk 86, Fury 85. 

Round 10: Usyk moves forward, and directly into a couple of Fury punches. Fury trying to use his size and lean forward, but referee separates the boxers. Fury lands a hard right. Usyk clearly felt that, but now he’s moving forward. Fury leaning on Usyk and connects. Usyk fights back and finishes strong. But it’s too late to win the round. Usyk 95, Fury 95.

Round 11: Fury misses with a big uppercut. Usyk lefts a nice left and his technical skills are serving him well. But the herky jerky Fury lands a shot. Usyk lands two hard lefts. And another. Usyk is heating up. Usyk 105, Fury 104.

Round 12: Fury lands a hard right to Usyk’s body. Usyk responds with a hard right of his own. Some impressive exchanges. Fury looks tired but digging deep. Usyk scores with another left as Fury and both fighters let their fists fly. Fury looks exhausted. Usyk lands a hard left seconds before the round ends. Usyk 115, Fury 113. 

How tall is Tyson Fury?

Tyson Fury height: 6-foot-9

How tall is Oleksandr Usyk?

Oleksandr Usyk height: 6-foot-3

Tyson Fury’s dad’s head-butt

Tyson’s Fury’s father, John, bloodied himself when he headbutted a member of Usyk’s camp during a media event before the fight.

Tyson Fury weight

281 pounds

Oleksandr Usyk weight

226 pounds

Moses Itauma def. Demsey McKean by TKO

Itauma is just 19. Old enough to instill fear inside the boxing ring.

Itauma improved to 11-0 after knocking down Demsey McKean twice in the first round.

He dropped McKean with the left and finished him off with another left, prompting the referee to halt the heavyweight bout that lasted just nine rounds fewer than scheduled.

A rising star, Itauma scored his ninth knockout in 11 victories and against a formidable opponent at that. McKean, 34, from Australia, entered with a record of 22-1 with 14 KOs.

Moses Itauma vs. Demsey McKean, heavyweight

Round 1: Can we pause to measure these two boxers? The 6-6 McKean appears to have more than a three-inch height advantage. But it clearly doesn’t matter as, Itauma sends McKean to the canvas! McKean is up, but not for long! Itauma floors McKean again! And this fight is over! The 19-year-old stays unbeaten!

Tyson Fury stats

Fury is 34-1-1 with 24 KOs.

Oleksandr Usyk stats

Usyk is 22-0 with 14 KOs.

Serhii Bohachuk def. Ishmael Davis by TKO

Bohachuk knocked down Davis in the second round, and after the sixth round Davis promptly called it quits. He’d clearly absorbed sufficient punishment during the super welterweight bout.

Bohachuk, the hard-hitting Ukrainian, floored Davis in the second round with a short left. He continued to punish the Brit until the end of the sixth, when Davis informed his corner he wanted to retire from the fight.

Bohachuk, 29, improved to 25-2, with his 24th knockout, and  with 23 KOs. Davis, a 29-year-old from Britain, fell to 13-2.

Serhii Bohachuk vs. Ishmael Davis, Super welterweight

Round 1: Bohachuk connects early with his jab. Davis responds with body shows. The jab is serving Bohachuk well, but Davis connects with a hard right and showing impressive power. Davis 10, Bohachuk 9. 

Round 2: Both fighters throwing flurries of punches and looking speedy. Davis showing precision, too. Bohachuk answer with uppercuts. Bohachuk lands a short left hook that drops Davis! He’s is back on his feet and survives the round. Bohachuk 19, Davis 18.

Round 3: Bohachuk oozing confidence as he stalks Davis, who now stands his ground. Bohachuk catches Davis with a hard right and appears to be in command. Davis appears to be hanging on before he lands a left uppercut to the delight of the crowd. Bohachuk 29, Davis 27.

Round 4: Davis lands a hard overhand right! He’s not done yet. An entertaining exchange ensues. Blood on top of Bonachuk’s head. It may belong to Davis. Bohachuk moving forward and connects. Bohachuk 39, Davis 36.

Round 5: Davis is game, and Bohachuk is relentless. Now they’re at the center of the ring and Bohachuk’s getting the better of the exchange. Bohachuk 49, Davis 45.  

Round 6: No let up here. Both boxers’ trunks smudged with blood. Davis lands a couple of punches even as Bohachuk appears to be in control, with Davis turning into a punching bag. And as the round ends, Davis informs the referee he has had enough. The fight’s over!

Who won first Fury-Usyk fight?

Usyk beat Fury by split decision – 114-113, 113-114, 115-112.

Fury vs. Usyk tickets

Tickets were listed for as low as $13 and as much as $642 Friday on StubHub.

Tyson Fury stats

Fury is 34-1-1 with 24 KOs

 Johnny Fisher def. Dave Allen by split decision

The fans responded with boos after Fisher won this 10-round heavyweight brawl by split decision.

Fisher survived a fifth-round knockdown and countless haymakers from Allen, who entertained the crowd with his power.

But the judges scored it 95-94, 93-96, 95-94 in favor of Fisher, the 25-year-old Brit who improved to 13-0.

Allen, a 32-year-old Brit, fell to 23-7-3.

Johnny Fisher vs. Dave Allen, heavyweight

Round 1: Fisher wasting no time unleashing an assortment of punches. Allen fights back with a jab. Fisher smothering Allen, who’s jab won’t be nearly enough to survive this bout. Fisher scores with his own jab while working the body and head. Fisher 10, Allen 9.

Round 2: Allen snaps back Fisher’s head with a jab. A moral victory. Fisher responds by pummeling Allen’s body and regains control. Fisher punishing Allen with his right hand. Fisher 20, Allen 18.

Round 3: Fisher’s firing quick punches with force. Allen trying to get tangled with Fisher, who maintains an effective distance. Allen throws some forceful shots and the boxers are tangled up again. Fisher doing his best to maintain some space, which is where he’s at his best. Fisher 30, Allen 27.

Round 4: As many shots as Allen as absorbed, he doesn’t appear to have suffered much damage. But he’s landed about one-fifth of his punches on Fisher, who’s firing away with his jab. Fisher 40, Allen 36.

Round 5: Allen connects with a hard right, and down goes Fisher! He gets up. Still 1:45 left in the round and Fisher looks to be in serious trouble. Fisher, nose bleeding, barely holding on. Allen unloading. Now both fighters exchanging heavy blows and looking exhausted. Fisher 48, Allen 46.

Round 6: Both fighters look exhausted, but still managing to unload powerful shots. Both absorbing heavy punches, including big rights from Allen. Fisher 57, Allen 56. 

Round 7: Allen opens with head-snapping shots. Fisher bleeding from the bridge of his nose again. Allen unloading overhand rights and vicious uppercuts. But Fisher, rather than crumpling, fires back. Stout. Fisher 66, Allen 66.

Round 8: Allen opens with a punishing right hand, and the brawl resumes. He looks like the more dangerous fighter, but Fisher swinging with force too. Allen 76, Fisher 75.

Round 9: When Allen loads up, Fisher turns away. That’s how painful those punches must be. Allen all but tosses Fisher to the ground. So part wrestling match, but mostly brawl. Fisher unsteady again as Allen lands big shots. Allen 86, Fisher 84.

Round 10: Allen smothers Fisher in a corner. Working hard to secure the victory and lands a hard right as he finishes strong. Allen 96, Fisher 93.  

Lee McGregor def. Isaac Lowe by unanimous decision

The action in this fight sizzled from start to finish, but the most remarkable thing involved unscheduled breaks in the fight.

Lowe lost his mouthguard no less than half a dozen times. That’s right. A half a dozen times. During the 10-round super featherweight fight. He was penalized two points.

But Lowe’s far bigger problem was his opponent, McGregor, who scored repeatedly with counterpunches, including several punishing uppercuts.

The judges scored it 96-92, 97-91 and 97-91 in favor of McGregor, the 27-year-old from Scotland who improved to 15-1-1 and won the vacant WBC International Featherweight title.

Lowe, the 30-year-old from Britain, fell to 25-3-3.

Isaac Lowe vs. Lee McGregor, featherweight

Round 1: Lowe attacks the body, and McGregor counters with head shots. Both strike hard. Fierce action underway, and it includes a powerful right hand from McGregor. McGregor 10, Lowe 9. 

Round 2: Lowe out strong. But now they’re both standing toe-to-toe and exchanging shots. McGregor lands the best one – an overhand right. McGregor 20, Lowe 18.

Round 3: Lowe out sharp again. He’s moving forward, even after he gets tagged in the face. Now McGregor asserts himself with body shots. But Lowe responds with precision. McGregor 29, Lowe 28. 

Round 4: Lowe lands early, and back comes McGregor with body and head shots. But Lowe lands more  punches. Well, momentarily anyway. McGregor 38, Lowe 38.

Round 5: Lowe strikes with the jab, but no real heat behind it. McGregor warned by the ref after Lowe suffers a cut over his left eye following a headbutt. McGregor does more damage with his fists. McGregor 48, Lowe 47.

Round 6: Fight’s getting messy, and McGregor looks happy it is, mainly because of the inside fighting. He’s unleashing uppercuts. Now blood is flowing from above both of Lowe’s eyes. McGregor smelling blood and keeps unleashing punches. McGregor 58, Edwards  56.

Round 7: Lowe working hard, but McGregor showing more power. Both of their mouthpieces sail out simultaneously and the two start exchanging words. Lowe chases after McGregor and, for his effort, lands several shots. But McGregor finishes off the round with a couple of uppercuts. McGregor 68, Lowe 65.

Round 8: Lowe shows aggression again. He scores and suffers the consequences while absorbing shots from McGregor, too. Kudos to Lowe’s cutman. Somehow they’ve got the cuts from around both of his eyes stopped. McGregor can’t be stopped either. McGregor 78, Lowe 74.

Round 9: Lowe empties the tank with body and head shots, and McGregor hangs on to Lowe’s body. He’s firing back, with but less authority than previous rounds. Lowe’s mouthpiece falls out yet again – five times? – and the referee appears to deduct a point. It’s deserved. Now Lowe’s mouthpiece comes out again! McGregor 87, Lowe 83. 

Round 10: Lowe looking for the KO he needs. McGregor’s mouthpiece comes out AGAIN! The referee deducts another point. Lowe wrestles McGregor to the canvas. Total frustration. Now they’re standing at the center of the ring. McGregor’s mouthpiece came out again. This time he appears to spit it out. The cuts from Lowe’s eyes streaming again. McGregor 96, Lowe 92.

Peter McGrail def. Rhys Edwards by unanimous decision

Edwards was a late replacement but looked well prepared for what turned out to be an action-packed fight. But it was McGrail who prevailed in the 10-round super featherweight bout.

The two Brits staged an entertaining slugfest that featured back-and-forth bursts – and blood. McGrail suffered a cut over his right eye in the third round as the result of an accidental headbutt.

The judges scored it 96-95, 96-94 and 96-94 for McGrail, 28, who improved to 11-1. Edwards, 24, suffered his first loss as his record fell to 16-1.

Peter McGrail vs. Rhys Edwards, super featherweight

Round 1: Edwards, a late replacement, is resplendent in shiny green shorts. McGrail not distracted by the eye-catching attire. Comes out strong with quick punches. McGrail finishes the round strong. McGrail 10, Edwards 9. 

Round 2: McGrail stalking and absorbs some punches as a result. McGrail undeterred. Edwards unintimated. McGrail 19, Edwards 19.

Round 3: Edwards emerges as the aggressor, but McGrail fires back. A rhythm ensures. Edwards attacks, McGrail counters. Plenty of action. McGrail suffers a cut over his right eye from an inadvertent headbutt. The boxers are briefly separated before the slugfest resumes. Edwards 29, McGrail 28.

Round 4: Edwards connecting with his jab. But McGrail moving forward behind the left. More action in four rounds than we saw in the opening two fights. Blood flowing from above Edwards’ right eye and Edwards launches an attack. Edwards 39, McGrail 37. 

Round 5: McGrail’s left eye noticeably swollen. It figures to become a target for Edwards and his right hand. Bursts of action from both boxers. McGrail looks sharp. Edwards 48, McGrail 47.

Round 6: McGrail sharp and active. Eating punches but landing more. Edwards now looking less dazzling than his boxing trunks. Edwards 57, McGrail 57.

Round 7: The pace slows, understandably. But McGrail accelerates and connects with an uppercut. Here they go again. Edwards turns the table with a flurry of shots. Edwards 67, McGrail 66. 

Round 8: McGrail out quick, with his feet, and his punches. Showing a little flair, as he delivers a left. Edwards responds and McGrail counters as the cut over McGrail’s right eye opens again, and Edwards snaps back McGrail’s head with a left. Edwards 76, McGrail 76.  

Round 9: McGrail landing more punches, but Edwards countering with more force. Edwards finishing the round strong, digging in with a body shot. Edwards 86, McGrail 85. 

Round 10: McGrail scoring with the left and in charge early. But once again, Edwards responds. No running here. They’re going to finishing this slugging. Edwards 96, McGrail 94.

Daniel Lapin def. Dylan Colin by unanimous decision

Built like Plastic Man, the 6-foot-6 Lapin capitalized on his height advantage over the 6-1 Colin. Of course, it was more than height in play.

Lapin of Ukraine fired a snapping left that tattooed Colin of France and kept him at bay during the 10-round light heavyweight fight.

The judges scored it 100-90, 99-91 and 99-91 in favor of Lapin, who improved to 11-0 and won the vacant IBF International light heavyweight title. Colin, of France, suffered his first loss and his record dropped to 14-1. 

Daniel Lapin vs Dylan Colin, light heavyweight

Round 1: The 6-6 Lapin noticeably taller than the 6-1 Colin. Looks like more than a five-inch difference to me, and Lapin connects with a left early. Colin trying to dart inside and close the gap, but Lapin effectively keeps him at bay with the long left and jab. Lapin 10, Colin 9.  

Round 2: Lapin now using his right hand, too. Making Colin pay every time Colin dares to approach. Colin throws a fierce right that comes up well short and therein lies his fundamental problem. Can he close the distance? Colin throws another overhand right that misses and Lapin fires back. Lapin 20, Colin 18.

Round 3: Lapin showing good footwork, which is making him even tougher for Colin to reach. Lapin showing a lack of aggression. To this point, he simply hasn’t needed it. But he fires a snapping left as he maintains control of the fight. Lapin 30, Colin 27.

Round 4: Has Lapin lost weight between rounds? Man, this dude is skinny. But there’s pop in those punches. Colin charges in but can’t connect before he wisely backpedals. Colin finally connects at short range, but Lapin quickly regains control behind his stinging left. Lapin 40, Colin 36.

Round 5: I’d be remiss not to mention Lapin’s cornrows. His hairstylist deserves a nod. Colin’s sporting a buzzcut and showing more aggression. Colin clearly knows he’s going to have to close the gap to reach Lapin, who ends the round by tagging Colin with another left. Lapin 50, Colin 45.

Round 6: Some matador work here from Lapin, who’s sidestepping the bullish Colin. Then Lapin nails him with a left and Colin’s knee appears to hit the canvas. But the referee does not rule it a knockdown. Colin landing more punches, but Lapin still in control. Lapin 60, Colin 54.

Round 7: Lapin has taken no chances and hard to imagine he will now that he’s comfortably ahead on the scorecards. Lapin just capitalizing on his height advantage with a steady diet of jabs and, when Colin darts in, lefts. Lapin 70, Colin 63.

Round 8: Lapin showboats for a moment and attacks. The controlled fight now features some slugging. Lapin pops Colin with a right hook when Colin attempts to close the gap. Colin doing his best to charge in closer to Lapin, who fights off his opponent with that left. Lapin 80, Colin 72. 

Round 9: To his credit, Colin still trying to charge forward. To his dismay, it’s not paying off. Lapin content to let Colin be the aggressor and land the left as he backpedals. Lapin 90, Colin 81. 

Round 10: Lapin’s corner instructs him to take no chances. Colin, of course, has received no such orders and gamely stalks the impossibly tall Ukrainian. Lapin 100, Colin 90.

Andrii Novytskyi def. Edgar Ramirez by unanimous decision

It was a fit Novytskyi versus a flabby Ramirez, and the 10-round  heavyweight fight ended with an lopsided outcome on the judge’s scorecards.

Novytskyi, who improved to 14-0, defended his WBC International heavyweight title by landing a succession of jabs and staying on the move. Ramirez showed aggression in the later rounds, but it was not nearly enough to sway the judges.

They scored it 100-90, 100-90 and 98-92 in favor of Novytskyi, the 6-6 Ukrainian. Ramirez of Mexico fell to 10-2-1. 

Underway: Andrii Novytskyi vs Edgar Ramirez, heavyweight

Round 8: Novytskyi looks increasingly lackluster, even as he lands a right. Ramirez throwing and landing with far more force. Novytskyi 77, Ramirez 75. 

Round 9: Novytskyi throwing with both hands, but not snap in those punches. Ramirez looks low on gas after some impressive late rounds. It’s more stick-and-move from Novytskyi, who’s the more active fighter. Novytskyi 87, Ramirez 84.

Round 10: Novytskyi out with more energy that we’ve seen. Active hands foiling Ramirez. Big swing and a miss by Ramirez with a left hook. Throws an overhand right that misses and eats a left. What Novytskyi lacks in power, he’s making up for with activity and accuracy. Novytskyi 97, Ramirez 93. 

When is Tyson Fury vs. Oleksandr Usyk?

Fury vs. Usyk 2 is Saturday, Dec. 21.

What time is Tyson Fury vs. Oleksandr Usyk?

The main card starts at noon ET. Fury and Usyk are expected to fight at about 6 p.m. ET.

Where is Tyson Fury vs. Oleksandr Usyk?

The Fury vs. Usyk rematch will take place at Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

How to watch Fury vs. Usyk? 

DAZN will broadcast the Fury-Usyk fight. Pay-per-view fee is $39.99.

Fury vs. Usyk card 

Oleksandr Usyk vs. Tyson Fury, heavyweight. For Usyk’s WBA, WBC and WBO titles 

Serhii Bohachuk vs. Ishmael Davis, light middleweight 

Moses Itauma vs. Demsey McKean, heavyweight 

Johnny Fisher vs. Dave Allen, heavyweight 

Peter McGrail vs. Rhys Edwards, super featherweight  

Isaac Lowe vs. Lee McGregor, featherweight 

Daniel Lapin vs. Dylan Colin, light-heavyweight 

Andrii Novytskyi vs. Edgar Ramirez; heavyweight 

Round 1: Ramirez looks noticeably flabby compared to the fit Novytski. Will it make a difference? Novytski active early, firing the jab. Ramirez throws and overhand right that misses, but he’s in the fight. Novytskyi 10, Ramirez 9. 

Round 2: Novytskyi connects with an uppercut and follows up with a jab and a right. Ramirez eats the punches as if there part of the buffet and looks sluggish. Ramirez charges forward but has yet to connect with any authority. Novtskyi 20, Ramirez 18.

Round 3: Ramirez the aggressor and finally connects with a right. But Novytskyi generally in control behind his jab, which has set up his other punches, and nice footwork. Ramirez shows more energy and lands a few notable punches. Novytskyi 30, Ramirez 27.

Round 4: Ramirez shows a burst of speed and power, but he’s struggling to maintain momentum. Novytskyi looks in control, but he’s still backpedaling as Ramirez maintains the role of aggressor. Who won the round? A coin-toss moment. Novytskyi 40, Ramirez 36.

Round 5: Novytskyi comes out with the same safe, methodical and, so far, effective approach. Ramirez throwing punches but nothing notable lands. Novytskyi looks increasingly cautious, with Ramirez showing more aggression. Novytskyi 49, Ramirez 46.

Round 6: Novytskyi still looking content throwing an effective jab that lacks force. No real power at all, although he’s agility has kept him in control and quickness. Ramirez lands rights to the body and head but his overall accuracy is lacking. Novytskyi 59, Ramirez 55.  

Round 7: Novytskyi unleashes a early flurry that lands. Ramirez responds with a right to the head and goes on the attack. He lands a left jab and follows with a body shot. Novytskyi 68, Ramirez 65.

Mohammed Alakel def. Joshua Ocampo by unanimous decision

Ocampo entered the right wearing a T-shirt with lettering across the front that read, “Never Give Up.’’ But not might be time to reconsider.

Ocampo, the 31-year-old Colombian, lost for the 32nd time in 33 fights. His opponent, Saudi Arabia’s Alakel, looked surprisingly polished in his second pro fight, a six-round lightweight bout.

The lanky Alakel (2-0) dominated Ocampo (8-34-5) with a variety of punches with noticeable snap and speed.

All three judges scored the fight 60-53 in Alakel’s favor.

Baseball Hall of Famer and all-time stolen base king Rickey Henderson died Friday at the age of 65, his family announced Saturday.

Henderson stole 1,406 bases in his 25-season career that crossed four decades from 1979-2003 and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2009. He played for nine different clubs including four stints with the Oakland Athletics, who drafted him in 1976.

Henderson died after being recently admitted to the hospital with pneumonia, persons close to his family told USA TODAY Sports’ Bob Nightengale.

‘A legend on and off the field, Rickey was a devoted son, dad, friend, grandfather, brother, uncle, and a truly humble soul,’ his wife Pamela Henderson said in a statement.

‘Rickey lived his life with integrity, and his love for baseball was paramount. Now, Rickey is at peace with the Lord, cherishing the extraordinary moments and achievements he leaves behind.’

Remembering those we lost: Celebrity Deaths 2024

Born in Chicago and raised in Oakland, Henderson was one of very few players who bats right-handed and throws left-handed. He holds the modern single-season stolen base record with 130 in 1982, reaching 100 steals in three of his first four full MLB seasons, and his 81 leadoff home runs are the most in history.

Henderson set the career record in 1991 with his 939th steal, breaking Lou Brock’s mark.

‘Lou Brock was the symbol of great base stealing,’ Henderson said that day. ‘But today, I’m the greatest of all time.’

Henderson played his final MLB game in 2003 at the age of 44, earning a midseason deal from the Los Angeles Dodgers after playing for the Newark Bears in the independent Atlantic League.

‘I played for a long time and with a lot of great players,’ said Dennis Eckersley, the Hall of Fame pitcher who was teammates with Henderson in Oakland. ‘I told Rickey this once, but I don’t know if he was listening to me. He’s the greatest player I ever played with.’

One of the game’s most flamboyant players of the era and a man who notably spoke in the third person, Henderson won World Series titles with the Athletics in 1989 and the Toronto Blue Jays in 1993.

‘(Rickey) told me that he liked to be entertaining because it made the product more enjoyable,’ said Hall of Famer Paul Molitor, Henderson’s teammate in Toronto.

Also MLB’s career leader with 2,295 runs, Henderson won the AL MVP award in 1990 for Oakland, clubbing 28 home runs with 65 steals and a league-best 1.016 OPS. He collected his 3,000th career hit with the San Diego Padres on the final day of the 2001 season.

‘For multiple generations of baseball fans, Rickey Henderson was the gold standard of base stealing and leadoff hitting,’ MLB commissioner Rob Manfred said in a statement. ‘Rickey was one of the most accomplished and beloved Athletics of all-time. 

‘He also made an impact with many other clubs during a quarter-century career like no other. Rickey epitomized speed, power and entertainment in setting the tone at the top of the lineup.’

Henderson calling himself ‘the greatest of all time’ after breaking Brock’s record caused a huge stir, but the new stolen base king had consulted with his predecessor on the planned remarks. Henderson later said the line continued to ‘haunt’ him – and later alluded to it in hi memorable Hall of Fame induction speech.

‘My favorite hero was Muhammad Ali. He said ‘I am the greatest!’ That is something I always wanted to be,’ Henderson said in Cooperstown, New York in 2009. ‘And now that the Association has voted me into the Baseball Hall of Fame, my journey as a player is complete. I am now in the class of the greatest players of all time. And at this moment, I am very, very humble.’

Rickey Henderson stats

Some of Henderson’s career accomplishments:

1,406 stolen bases – most in MLB history
2,295 runs – most in MLB history
3,055 hits
297 home runs (81 leadoff)
.401 on-base percentage
10-time MLB All-Star
1990 American League MVP with Oakland
1980 AL Gold Glove winner
Three-time Silver Slugger

Rickey Henderson cause of death

Henderson died after being recently admitted to the hospital with pneumonia, persons close to his family told USA TODAY Sports’ Bob Nightengale.

The USA TODAY app gets you to the heart of the news — fast. Download for award-winning coverage, crosswords, audio storytelling, the eNewspaper and more.

It’s a procrastinator’s time of year. As we tick down into the final weeks of 2024, it’s all about last-minute holiday shopping, making last-minute plans and trying to make good on those resolutions before the year calendar flips.

In the NFL, it’s about making those last-minute playoff pushes. The Ravens were feeling the pressure Saturday in Baltimore as they try to track down the AFC North crown. The Steelers came ready to celebrate, but the champagne remains on ice in Pittsburgh until further notice.

The Ravens were 34-17 winners Week 16, finally beating their hated rivals for the first time in two years. As a result, they moved into a tie atop the division with just two weeks to go.

While the margin of victory indicates a lopsided affair, this was close throughout before a chaotic sequence changed the game early in the fourth quarter. There were multiple turnovers, a head-scratching decision from Pittsburgh to go for it on fourth down, and much more packed into just a few minutes.

The Ravens will want to clean up their game going forward, but they’ll feel good after getting this win. With a quick turnaround looming, Baltimore is traveling to Houston for a Christmas showdown with the Texans, so there’s no time to celebrate.

NFL STATS CENTRAL: The latest NFL scores, schedules, odds, stats and more.

Derrick Henry was a machine on the ground, once again, finishing with 162 yards on 24 carries. As for Lamar Jackson, he shook off some of his struggles against Pittsburgh, turning in a solid performance and avoiding big mistakes, aside from the unfortunate interception.

Tiebreakers will come into focus now, but there is plenty of work to be done before these teams head to the postseason. At the very least, they’ll each have a seat at the table.

Here’s a look at how the action unfolded on Saturday.

NFL division tiebreakers

There are 12 tiebreakers to determine a division winner if two teams are tied in the NFL. Here they are, according to NFL.com:

Head-to-head (best won-lost-tied percentage in games between the clubs).
Best won-lost-tied percentage in games played within the division.
Best won-lost-tied percentage in common games.
Best won-lost-tied percentage in games played within the conference.
Strength of victory in all games.
Strength of schedule in all games
Best combined ranking among conference teams in points scored and points allowed in all games.
Best combined ranking among all teams in points scored and points allowed in all games.
Best net points in common games.
Best net points in all games.
Best net touchdowns in all games.
Coin toss

While the Steelers and Ravens split their two meetings, they also own the same record within the division. That moves us to the third tiebreaker, common opponents, which is where the Steelers have the edge right now. Pittsburgh also owns the conference record tiebreaker. The race is not over with two games to go, but it is still an uphill battle from here for the Ravens.

Updated AFC North standings

Steelers (10-5)
Ravens (10-5)
Bengals (6-8)
Browns (3-11)

Ravens clinch a playoff spot with Week 16 win

And, just like that, this one is over. The Ravens are headed back to the playoffs thanks to their win over the Steelers. A 17-point win for the hosts doesn’t indicate just how close it was, but Pittsburgh now finds itself in a battle for the AFC North crown with just two weeks to go. Both teams will be back in action on Christmas.

Ravens-Steelers score: Justin Tucker nails another field goal

At this point in the game, the clock is all that matters. Baltimore was able to eat 6:09 off the clock and cap off the long drive with a 23-yard field goal from Tucker to extend the lead to 17. Ravens 34, Steelers 17

Zay Flowers stats: Ravens WR hits the 100-yard mark with big play

Flowers has been fairly quiet today, but that doesn’t mean he hasn’t been productive. The receiver just had a 49-yard catch-and-run, giving him 100 yards on the evening. He’s brought in five catches on eight targets, but this one gives Baltimore the chance to take some more time off the clock.

Ravens-Steelers score: Marlon Humphrey pick-six extends Ravens lead

‘Anything you can do, I can do better.’ While we don’t know if Russell Wilson actually said that, the throw to Marlon Humphrey told the whole story there. After being gifted an interception from Jackson, Wilson, like many others on Dec. 26, opted to return the favor.’ Humphrey scampers 37 yards for the touchdown, giving Baltimore a 14-point lead. Ravens 31, Steelers 17

Lamar Jackson throws an interception

Jackson’s history against the Steelers is well-documented by now and none of it is particularly good. He isn’t doing anything to silence those critics with this interception, as he floats one into the arms of Minkah Fitzpatrick. The Steelers take over with a chance to right their previous wrong.

Steelers turn it over on downs

The Steelers get the fourth quarter started by going for it on fourth down near midfield, for some reason. Wilson chucks up a 50-50 ball for Calvin Austin III, which falls incomplete. Head-scratching move there in a close game.

Ravens-Steelers score: Mark Andrews TD catch gets Baltimore back in front

Well, that didn’t take long. The Steelers’ kickoff went out of bounds, giving the Ravens great starting field position on their drive. Six plays and 60 yards later, Mark Andrews is celebrating in the end zone as Baltimore reclaims the lead. Ravens 24, Steelers 17

Ravens-Steelers score: Cordarrelle Patterson TD catch ties it up again

No, your eyes were not failing you. That was actually Patterson catching that touchdown. The wide receiver turned running back now looks like he’s built like a tight end, but it doesn’t matter. Touchdowns count the same for all the positions. Wilson lofted one up for Patterson out of the backfield, who comes down with it in the end zone with the game-tying touchdown. Again, we’re right back to where we started. New game in Baltimore! Ravens 17, Steelers 17

Highlight: Calvin Austin III catch along the sideline

After an uneventful start to the half, Russell Wilson chucks one up for Austin down the sideline, who somehow comes down in bounds for the 44-yard gain. You’ll want to get a look at this one.

Steelers open the second half with a three-and-out

Pittsburgh’s momentum didn’t carry over to start the second half, as they pick up just six yards before punting it away. Now the Ravens have the chance to extend their lead, once again.

Longest NFL field goal

As we get set to start the second half, the field goal fest at the end of the half brings back memories. Tucker’s 2024 struggles have been well-documented, but let’s not forget this is the same guy who holds the record for the longest field goal in NFL history. He famously converted from 66 yards out in 2021 to defeat the Lions in Detroit. There have been attempts to break the record, notoriously by the Cowboys’ Brandon Aubrey’s 70-yard attempt in Week 15, but they fell short or drifted wide.

Ravens-Steelers score: Chris Boswell field goal ends half

Boswell saw Tucker’s 51-yard try and decided to match it, converting the attempt to bring the gap back to seven. It’s halftime in Baltimore and the Steelers get the ball to start the second half. Another close game between these two bitter rivals means we should be in for treat when the second half kicks off. Ravens 17, Steelers 10

Ravens-Steelers score: Justin Tucker nails 51-yard FG to stretch Baltimore’s lead

The Baltimore faithful are in a celebratory mood after Tucker knocks through a field goal from 51 yards out. The kicker has experienced plenty of struggles in 2024, but they weren’t visible on this play as the Ravens lead grows to 10 right before the halftime break. Pittsburgh will have a chance to respond with a two-minute drive of their own. Ravens 17, Steelers 7

Two-minute warning: Ravens driving just before halftime

Baltimore is trying to build on their seven-point lead just before halftime. They’re set up at around the Pittsburgh 34, which should be in Justin Tucker’s field goal range.

Ravens-Steelers score: Rashod Bateman’s TD puts Baltimore back in front

Baltimore cashed in on the Wilson fumble, driving 96 yards and taking only eight plays to do it before Bateman hauls in the touchdown pass from Lamar Jackson. The 14-yard connection caps off a drive that took only 3:29 off the clock. It’s Bateman’s third touchdown in the last two games and his fifth in the last six. Ravens 14, Steelers 7

Justice Hill injury update

Hill has been quickly ruled out with a concussion. He picked up 25 yards on a big run after the fumble, but the play ended with the running back being injured after his head slammed into the field. Hill was able to get up and walk off the field, but it’s never a good sign to be ruled out almost instantly. He will now be subjected to the league’s concussion protocol.

Russell Wilson fumbles, Ravens recover

Wilson and the Steelers have been in a groove ever since their touchdown drive, but that’ll have to be put on the back burner. The quarterback turned back the clock, rumbling for a 20-yard gain to set his team up with a first-and-goal, but coughed up the ball. Unlike the Ravens, the Steelers can’t recover. Baltimore takes over and the Pittsburgh drive ends in disappointing fashion. Given the early results, the players might want to try some new gloves to avoid fumbling.

Jordan Stout 14-yard punt sets Pittsburgh up with good field position

If you were wondering how the Ravens would respond to the Steelers’ touchdown, well, it wasn’t good. A penalty, drop and incomplete pass aren’t in the recipe for success and a shanked punt definitely isn’t either. Stout’s 14-yard punt gives the Steelers great starting field position in what is another ode to the AFC North’s ugly style of play.

Ravens-Steelers score: MyCole Pruitt evens the score in Baltimore

Steelers’ OC Arthur Smith is getting frisky around the holidays, opting for a pass on first down at the one. It’s a move that goes against the brand of the former Falcons’ head coach, but results in a touchdown for Pruitt, who gets Pittsburgh on the board. Any port in a storm will do and we’re right back to where we started with a tie game. Ravens 7, Steelers 7

End of first quarter: Ravens have the lead, Steelers threatening to score

A fast-paced opening 15 minutes comes to a close with the Ravens on top. It might not be for long, however, after a Fox pays the bills with some commercials. When we return, Pittsburgh is set up nicely with a first-and-goal at the one. They’ve responded nicely, traveling 72 yards with nine plays.

Ravens-Steelers score: Isaiah Likely TD catch gives Baltimore early lead

Drive No. 2 ends in much better fashion for the Ravens, as Likely finds the end zone from nine yards out. The tight end slipped out, uncovered, for the easy score. Ravens 7, Steelers 0

Joey Porter Jr. injury update

The Steelers cornerback walked off the field under his own power after being steamrolled by Derrick Henry. It is a calf injury for Porter and he is questionable to return.

UPDATE: Porter has been ruled out with a calf injury.

Steelers open with a three-and-out

Pittsburgh didn’t fare much better than Baltimore, as the Steelers’ drive ends without incident. A quick three plays leads to a punt, which also nearly ends with a turnover. Butterfingers are typically considered a Halloween candy, but Baltimore brought them to the game today. Two fumbles in the early going, but they’ve fallen on both. Lamar Jackson and company go back to work at the Steelers’ 41.

Ravens forced to punt on opening drive

A promising opening drive quickly stalled for the Ravens. Lamar Jackson nearly fumbled, but Baltimore avoided disaster and had to kick it away. It’s downed at the Steelers’ three-yard line, giving Russell Wilson some bad starting field position.

Steelers inactives

QB Justin Fields
WR George Pickens
S DeShon Elliott
CB Donte Jackson
DT Larry Ogunjobi

Ravens inactives

CB Jayln Armour-Davis
WR Nelson Agholor
S Marcus Williams
RB Keaton Mitchell
LB Adisa Isaac
C Nick Samac

Ravens vs. Steelers Saturday start time

Start time: 4:30 p.m. ET (1:30 p.m. PT) 
Location: M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore, Md.

The Ravens vs. Steelers game will begin at 4:30 p.m. ET on Saturday. It will be the second of the NFL’s two games to kick off during the afternoon game slate. 

Ravens vs. Steelers live stream

Live stream: Fubo

For cord cutters looking for a live stream for the matchup, you can turn to Fubo. Fubo carries NBC, as well as CBS, FOX, NFL Network and the ESPN family of networks, meaning you can catch NFL action through the remainder of the season.

AFC North standings

Steelers (10-4)
Ravens (9-5)
Bengals (6-8)
Browns (3-11)

Steelers playoff scenarios

The Steelers have already clinched a playoff berth, but with a win over the Ravens, Pittsburgh would clinch the AFC North title. That would guarantee the Steelers a top four seed in the playoffs.

A loss would tie the Steelers in the standings with the Ravens. The two also would have identical division records in the case of a Baltimore win and a 5-2 record in common, non-divisional games. Pittsburgh would remain ahead in the division race because of its superior record against AFC opponents, but it would be by a thin margin.

Either way, the Steelers have the inside track to the AFC North title and, most likely, the No. 3 seed in the AFC.

Ravens playoff scenarios

The Ravens haven’t yet clinched a playoff berth but can do so with a win over the Steelers. They can also guarantee passage to the postseason as a wild card with a loss and losses (or ties) by the Dolphins and Colts.

Baltimore is tracking to be the No. 5 seed if it makes the postseason. However, a win would give it a shot to catch Pittsburgh in the division race. The Steelers own a head-to-head tiebreaker over the Ravens at present, so Lamar Jackson and Co. must win in Week 16 to stay in the division race.

Ravens vs. Steelers odds, moneyline, over/under

Spread: Ravens (-6.5)
Moneyline: Ravens (-300); Steelers (+240)
Over/under: 45.5

The Ravens are favorites to defeat the Steelers, according to the BetMGM NFL odds.

What happened to Diontae Johnson?

The Ravens excused Johnson from practice ahead of Week 16. This came after he was suspended in Week 15 for refusing to enter Baltimore’s Week 13 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles.

That led to the Ravens waiving him prior to their Week 16 matchup vs. the Steelers. The team acquired him in pre-deadline trade with the Carolina Panthers, who acquired the free-agent-to-be during the offseason from the Steelers.

As a result, Johnson, a former Steeler, will not get a chance to face his former team.

Lamar Jackson record vs. Steelers

Jackson has struggled during his career against Pittsburgh. The two-time MVP has just a 2-5 record against them in seven contests. That includes an 18-16 loss to the Steelers earlier in the 2024 NFL season.

Weather in Baltimore

The weather is supposed to be a little chilly for Baltimore’s home game against the Steelers. Temperatures will peak at 38 degrees while winds between 10-20 mph will blow throughout the day.

There is only a 3% chance of precipitation during Saturday’s game. As such, the wind will be the greatest obstacle for kickers and quarterbacks alike to overcome in the Week 16 matchup.

Which NFL team has the most Super Bowl wins?

The Steelers are tied with the New England Patriots for the most Super Bowl wins with six.

Pittsburgh and Dallas have the unique distinction of playing each other more than any other team combination in Super Bowl history with three matchups.

2025 NFL draft order

Here’s how the 2025 NFL draft order shakes out after the Week 16 edition of ‘Thursday Night Football,’ according to Tankathon.com:

Las Vegas Raiders: 2-12 record; .537 strength of schedule
New York Giants: 2-12; .550 SOS
New England Patriots: 3-11; .464 SOS
Jacksonville Jaguars: 3-11; .483 SOS
Carolina Panthers: 3-11; .496 SOS
Tennessee Titans: 3-11; .510 SOS
Cleveland Browns: 3-11; .525 SOS
New York Jets: 4-10; .506 SOS
Chicago Bears: 4-10; .559 SOS
New Orleans Saints: 5-9; .496 SOS
Miami Dolphins: 6-8; .424 SOS
Indianapolis Colts: 6-8; .473 SOS
Cincinnati Bengals: 6-8; .479 SOS
Dallas Cowboys: 6-8; .521 SOS
San Francisco 49ers: 6-8; .567 SOS
Atlanta Falcons: 7-7; .517 SOS
Arizona Cardinals: 7-7; .531 SOS
Seattle Seahawks: 8-6; .510 SOS
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 8-6; .496 SOS
Los Angeles Rams: 8-6; .517 SOS
Los Angeles Chargers: 9-6; .467 SOS
Denver Broncos: 9-6; .488 SOS
Washington Commanders: 9-5; .441 SOS
Baltimore Ravens: 9-5; .533 SOS
Houston Texans: 9-5; .479 SOS
Pittsburgh Steelers: 10-4; .479 SOS
Green Bay Packers: 10-4; .542 SOS
Minnesota Vikings: 12-2; .483 SOS
Buffalo Bills: 11-3; .462 SOS
Philadelphia Eagles: 12-2; .445 SOS
Detroit Lions: 12-2; .534 SOS
Kansas City Chiefs: 13-1; .483 SOS

Ravens vs. Steelers TV channel

TV channel: Fox 

Fox will broadcast the second NFL game on Saturday after NBC and Peacock were granted the rights to the Chiefs-Texans game. 

Fox’s No. 1 broadcast team – play-by-play announcer Kevin Burkhardt and game analyst Tom Brady – will be on the call for the AFC North rivalry. The duo will be joined by Erin Andrews and Tom Rinaldi on the sidelines for the star-studded affair. 

Ravens vs. Steelers predictions, picks

Here’s how the USA TODAY Sports team feels the Ravens-Steelers game will go:

Tyler Dragon: Ravens 26, Steelers 21
Jordan Mendoza: Ravens 24, Steelers 20

Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs are on the cusp of clinching the No. 1 seed in the AFC. They defeated the Houston Texans 27-19 during a Saturday matchup of two division winners.

Mahomes came into the game with a mild high-ankle sprain, but he didn’t appear hobbled by the injury. The Chiefs quarterback passed for 260 yards and a touchdown in the win. He also ran for a score.

Saturday was the Chiefs’ last regular-season game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, although the Chiefs will be back in front of their home fans for the playoffs as they begin their quest to win a historic third consecutive Super Bowl.

USA TODAY Sports examines the winners and losers from the Week 16 AFC game:

Winners

Chiefs’ goal of No. 1 seed

The road to Super Bowl 59 looks like it’s going through Kansas City. The Chiefs can clinch the No. 1 seed with a win next week or a Bills loss Sunday.

NFL STATS CENTRAL: The latest NFL scores, schedules, odds, stats and more.

Home-field advantage

The Chiefs went undefeated at home during the regular season, a perfect 8-0. It’s the first time since 2003 that Kansas City hasn’t lost a home game during a regular season.

Patrick Mahomes’ ankles

Andy Reid said Mahomes ‘might have the loosest ankles in America.’ The Chiefs head coach might be right. Mahomes wasn’t affected much by his tender ankle.

Mahomes scrambled up the middle for a 15-yard touchdown on Kansas City’s first possession.

Mahomes sprained his ankle at the end of Kansas City’s Week 15 win over the Cleveland Browns. 

Trent McDuffie

The Chiefs top cornerback has recorded an interception in each of the past two weeks after not having an interception in the first two years of his career. He had five tackles, two tackles for loss and one pass deflection.

Xavier Worthy

The speedster was involved in Kansas City’s offense all game. The Texas product produced 10 touches, 75 yards from scrimmage and a touchdown.

Losers

AFC

As mentioned above, the road to Super Bowl 59 in the AFC will likely go through Kansas City. That’s bad news for the rest of the conference. The Chiefs are undefeated at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium this year and Mahomes is 12-2 at home in the postseason. 

Houston turnovers

Stroud had two uncharacteristic interceptions in the first half. His two picks led to 10 Kansas City points.

Texans offense after Tank Dell injury

Tank Dell suffered a gruesome left knee injury when he hauled in a 30-yard touchdown reception. Dell’s knee got tangled up with wide receiver Jared Wayne as he was tackled to the ground.   

Stroud and many of Dell’s teammates were visibly emotional after the play. It was incredible Dell was able to hold on to the football despite the serious knee injury. He was eventually carted off the field.

Houston missed the ensuing extra point attempt.

The Texans have been dealing with injuries at wide receiver all season. Nico Collins missed five games this year due to a hamstring injury and Stefon Diggs sustained a season-ending knee injury in October.

Dell exited with six catches, 98 yards and a touchdown.