It’s official: Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever will meet the Connecticut Sun in the 2024 WNBA playoffs.

The Sun, a preseason favorite to contend for the WNBA championship, locked up the third seed by blowing out the Chicago Sky, 85-54, in the regular-season finale Thursday.

The Fever are returning to the playoffs for the first time since 2016, lifted to the postseason by the play of Caitlin Clark, who is practically a lock to win the 2024 WNBA Rookie of the Year award.

Indiana boasts one of the league’s best veterans in guard Kelsey Mitchell, now in her seventh professional season. But no Fever starter has WNBA playoff experience, whereas the Sun and its core have made multiple deep postseason runs, including a trip to the 2022 Finals, where they lost to the Las Vegas Aces in four games. Earlier this season, the Sun traded for guard Marina Mabrey, a sharp shooter on the perimeter, in hopes of bolstering their title chances.

WNBA playoff format

In the WNBA’s playoff format, the sixth seed matches up with the third seed in the first round. All first-round matchups are best-of-three series, with the first two games being played at the home of the higher-seeded team; Game 3, if necessary, is played at the home of the lower-seeded team. 

This format means that lower-seeded playoff teams may not see the huge financial benefit from hosting a postseason game and, if they manage to steal a game on the road, it puts the higher-seeded team in the tough position of winning Game 3 in a hostile environment. 

So, No. 6 Indiana (20-20) will meet No. 3 Connecticut (28-12).

Indiana vs. Connecticut playoff schedule

➤ Game 1: Sunday, Sept. 22 at Connecticut, 3 p.m. ET on ABC

➤ Game 2: Wednesday, Sept. 25 at Connecticut, 7:30 p.m. ET on ESPN

➤ Game 3 (if necessary): Friday, Sept. 27 at Indiana, tip time TBA, on ESPN2

How has Caitlin Clark played vs. the Connecticut Sun this season? 

The Sun and Fever have met four times this year, with Connecticut holding a 3-1 edge. Here’s how Clark played in each of those games:

∎ May 14: Connecticut 92, Indiana 71 

Clark stat line: 20 points (5-of-15 shooting, including 4-of-11 from 3), 3 assists, 2 steals, 10 turnovers

∎ May 20: Connecticut 88, Indiana 84

Clark stat line: 17 points (5-of-11 shooting, including 3-of-7 from 3), 3 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 blocks, 5 turnovers

∎ June 10: Connecticut 89, Indiana 72

Clark stat line: 10 points (3-of-8 shooting, including 2-of-5 from 3), 2 assists, 1 steal, 3 turnovers

∎ Aug. 28: Indiana 84, Connecticut 80

Clark stat line: 19 points (7-of-17 shooting, including 3-of-12 from 3), 5 rebounds, 5 assists, 1 steal, 1 block, 7 turnovers

It’s worth pointing out that Indiana’s lone win over Connecticut this season came after the Olympic break, which has hugely benefited Clark and the Fever overall. Indiana has been one of the better teams since the WNBA resumed play in August, amassing a 9-4 record; Las Vegas is the only team Indiana did not beat this season. 

Caitlin Clark vs. DiJonai Carrington

In the playoffs, just like the regular season, Clark is likely to be guarded by Connecticut’s DiJonai Carrington, one of the best perimeter defenders in the league. Just 5-foot-11, Carrington is a superior athlete — it runs in the family, as her brother played eight seasons in the NFL — with long arms and quick feet who loves physical play. She and Clark have developed something of a rivalry this season, as Carrington has repeatedly complained to officials about Clark’s whining about foul calls.

Regardless, it’s clear Carrington knows how to defend Clark, as the favorite to win Rookie of the Year has averaged just 39% (20-of-51) shooting vs. the Sun in four matchups, and shot just 34% (12-of-35) from 3. Also, while Carrington has downplayed their individual matchup, it’s obvious Carrington takes pride in frustrating whoever she’s guarding and pressuring them into mistakes and rushed shots. 

The Sun boast the best defensive rating in the league and have a bunch of players with long wingspans who can harass Clark and Indiana’s other guards. If Carrington isn’t guarding Clark it’ll probably be either DeWanna Bonner or Alyssa Thomas, two veterans who also love to make life tough for opposing guards. 

Bottom line: Indiana has been playing great since the Olympic break, especially with the increased production from off guards Kelsey Mitchell and Lexie Hull. But the Fever have their work cut out for them. 

The Jets added plenty of fuel to the AFC East discussion on Thursday night. 

New York thoroughly dominated its division rival seemingly hitting their stride in a 24-3 win over the Patriots. Aaron Rodgers looked to be himself on ‘Thursday Night Football,’ tossing a pair of touchdowns in the win. Not only was his arm lively, but Rodgers showcased a bit of mobility that may quell some doubts over whether his legs still have some juice left.

First-round pick Drake Maye also saw his first NFL action in mop-up duty. Both Maye and starter Jacoby Brissett fell victim to a makeshift Patriots offensive line, as Maye was sacked Twice and Brissett hit the turf five times in the contest.

The Patriots have a mini-bye before they have to face the 49ers in Week 4, another tough matchup for their offensive line. The Jets take on the Broncos, welcoming back former draft selection Zach Wilson, who is QB2 behind Bo Nix for Denver.

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USA TODAY Sports provided live updates, highlights and more from the Week 3 ‘Thursday Night Football’ matchup below. All times are Eastern.

Jets vs. Patriots final score: New York dominates 24-3

It was a total shellacking from the first quarter on, as New York exorcised demons of division rivalries past with a 24-3 victory over the Patriots on Thursday.

Aaron Rodgers looked to be in vintage form: Rodgers finished 27-of-35 passing for 281 yards and two touchdowns. While the veteran’s arm looked lively per usual, it was his mobility that proved to be eye-opening, as his legs looked spry for a player of his advanced age coming off an Achilles injury.

Drake Maye makes NFL debut

The Patriots are giving Drake Maye some playing time in this ‘Thursday Night Football’ blowout. The No. 3 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft will look to lead the Patriots on their first touchdown drive of the night.

Greg Zuerlein makes 28-yard field goal: Jets up 24-3

The Jets extended their lead to 24-3 with a chip-shot make by Greg Zuerlein. It marked his first made field goal of the day after he missed from 45 earlier in the game.

Rhamondre Stevenson fumbles to set up Jets scoring opportunity

On his sixth carry of the night, Stevenson was stripped by the Jets safety Chuck Clark. New York recovered and set the Jets up with the ball at New England’s 37-yard line.

End of third quarter: Jets dominating Patriots

The Jets are continuing to dominate the Patriots. New York has outgained New England by 271 yards and appears well on its way to a 2-1 start to the 2024 season.

Now, the only question is whether Aaron Rodgers will log his first 300-yard passing game since 2021 or if the Jets will take a conservative approach to end what’s shaping up to be a blowout.

Morgan Moses injury update

Moses, the Jets’ starting right tackle, suffered an injury just before the end of the third quarter when a Patriots defender rolled up on his left leg. The 11-year veteran remained face down on the ground and was writhing in pain as the New York medical staff tended to him.

Moses has made 146 starts during his NFL career and has missed just three games since the 2015 season. Rookie first-round pick Olu Fashanu is the next man up on New York’s depth chart.

Josh Uche called for roughing the passer on Aaron Rodgers

Aaron Rodgers took a big shot on a third-and-2 pass when Patriots linebacker slammed into him a beat after he released a pass to Tyler Conklin for a first down.

Rodgers was no worse for wear after the hit and got up with no issue.

Jacoby Brissett slow to get up again after sack

Brissett was sacked for a fourth time as the Patriots tried to answer the Jets’ touchdown, and he remained on the ground briefly after the play. He eventually got up to one knee and stood back up before exiting the field on a fourth-and-26.

Brissett’s status will bear monitoring as the Patriots trail 21-3 with 3:43 left in the third quarter. If New England writes the game off as a blowout, Drake Maye could see his first NFL action in relief of Brissett.

Aaron Rodgers, Garrett Wilson connect on impressive 2-yard touchdown

Aaron Rodgers makes a great throw to the front pylon to hit Garrett Wilson for a 2-yard touchdown. Patriots cornerback Christian Gonzalez tried to undercut the route for a pick-six, but Rodgers put it just high enough for Wilson to jump, make the grab and get his feet down before going out of bounds.

The Jets now lead 21-3 after Greg Zuerlein’s extra point was good.

Jets use second timeout at 7:40 mark in third quarter

The Jets have already used two of their three timeouts for the second half and we aren’t even at the ahlfway point in the third quarter. The good news for Jets fans: New York has an 11-point lead and is in scoring range again, so this may not end up mattering.

Jacoby Brissett hobbled after big hit

Any hope the Patriots had of cutting into the lead to start the second half was quickly lost after the Jets once again got pressure on Jacoby Brissett. The Patriots QB was hit by several Jets player as he released a third-down pass intended for Demario Douglas. It was knocked down with ease by D.J. Reed to force a three-and-out.

Brissett got up slowly after the play and walked to the New England sideline.

Aaron Rodgers passing yards tonight

Rodgers had 170 passing yards in the first half. That’s just six yards less than his season-high 176 yards he had in the Jets’ Week 2 win over the Tennessee Titans.

Rodgers should surpass that mark in the second half with ease. He is also on pace for his first 300-yard passing performance since the Green Bay Packers’ 45-30 win over the Chicago Bears in Week 14 of the 2021 NFL season.

Halftime: Vintage Aaron Rodgers has Jets up 14-3 on Patriots

The Jets outgained the Patriots 252-40 in a dominant first half where Rodgers shined. The 40-year-old completed 15 of 20 passes for 170 yards and a touchdown while positioning New York to score on three of its four drives.

Conversely, the Patriots struggled to do anything on offense while their defense missed the presence of middle linebacker and defensive signal-caller Ja’Whaun Bentley. They should feel lucky to be down 11, especially since Greg Zuerlein missed a 45-yard field goal just before halftime.

Jets’ Will McDonald adds another sack

The Jets may a WMD off the edge – a Will McDonald, that is.

The 2023 first-round selection had a quiet rookie season, but is seemingly breaking out in a big way. He has added another pair of sacks on ‘Thursday Night Football,’ the second, unblocked off the edge. Still, the Jets need the help off the edge, with Jermaine Johnson’s injury and Haason Reddick’s holdout.

McDonald dropped Johnson’s sack celebration, paying tribute to his injured teammate.

Aaron Rodgers, Robert Saleh share awkward exchange

Not so close.

Following the Jets’ second score of the night, cameras caught quarterback Aaron Rodgers and head coach Robert Saleh attempt to share a hug – until Rodgers awkwardly pushes Saleh away.

Breece Hall runs for 1-yard touchdown

The Jets get their second touchdown of the day after Hall runs around the left side of the line, rolls over a body and breaks the plane just before his knee hit the ground.

The officials originally ruled Hall short of the goal-line, but a video review clearly showed he made it into the end zone on the play.

Jabrill Peppers injury update

Peppers remained down on the field after the Patriots allowed a 27-yard catch-and-run to Allen Lazard. The starting safety eventually limped off the field and headed straight into the blue medical tent to receive treatment.

Peppers would be listed as ‘questionable’ to return after some time in the tent.

End of first quarter: Jets outplay Patriots, lead 7-0

The Jets significantly outplayed the Patriots in the first quarter. Aaron Rodgers performed very well, completing 8 of his 9 passes for 63 yards and a touchdown while showing better mobility than he did in the first two weeks of the season.

On the other side, the Patriots’ offense struggled to stem the Jets’ pass rush while the New England defense had issues without Ja’Whaun Bentley.

If this continues, it could be a long night for the Patriots faithful.

Jets sack Jacoby Brissett, end Patriots drive

Quinnen Williams gets early pressure on Brissett on a third-and-7 near midfield. Will McDonald and Micheal Clemons help Williams clean up to bring down Brissett and force the Patriots to punt.

The Jets will get the ball back on their own 9-yard line, up 7-0.

Aaron Rodgers stats update

The Jets QB is looking good through two drives against the Patriots. He has completed 8 of 9 passes for 63 yards and a touchdown. His lone incompletion came on a nice, back-shoulder strike to Garrett Wilson, who couldn’t keep his feet in bounds on the sideline to make the play.

Rodgers also appears to have better mobility than he did in the first couple of weeks of the season. He scrambled once for a 5-yard gain and picked up a first down on the carry.

Aaron Rodgers hits Allen Lazard for 10-yard TD, Jets take lead

The Jets get on the board first after Rodgers hits Lazard for a 10-yard touchdown. Rodgers threw the ball quickly to Lazard at the line of scrimmage and the veteran receiver made a man miss before running into the end zone.

The Jets made the extra point to take the 7-0 lead.

Jahlani Tavai body-slams Breece Hall

Patriots linebacker Jahlani Tavai stopped Breece Hall at the line of scrimmage after the running back caught a pass out of the backfield from Aaron Rodgers.

Tavai threw Hall to the ground after the play, drawing a 15-yard personal foul penalty and putting the Jets in field goal range.

Patriots go three-and-out on first possession

The Jets pressured Jacoby Brissett on each of his two dropbacks on the Patriots’ first possession. It looks like Robert Saleh’s plan will be to blitz Brissett often to take advantage of New England’s banged-up offensive line, which is missing left tackle Vederian Lowe and left guard Sidy Sow.

Aaron Rodgers, Jets end first drive with punt

Aaron Rodgers had the Jets offense moving early to start their ‘TNF’ matchup with the Patriots, but a holding penalty on Morgan Moses and a sack on the ensuing first-and-20 put the Jets behind the chains. 

Eventually, the Jets opted to punt rather than attempt a 60-plus-yard field goal. The Patriots will get the ball on the 20-yard line on their first possession.

Jets vs. Patriots start time

Date: Thursday, Sept. 19
Time: 8:15 p.m. ET

The Jets vs. Patriots game will start at 8:15 p.m. ET, the same start time as all of Amazon’s ‘Thursday Night Football’ games for the 2024 NFL season.

What channel is Thursday Night Football on tonight?

Live stream: Amazon Prime
Local TV: Fox 5 (New York market) | Fox 25 (Boston market)

NFL fans hoping to catch the ‘Thursday Night Football’ game live must be subscribed to Amazon Prime to stream the contest.

Al Michaels (play-by-play), Kirk Herbstreit (color commentary), and Kaylee Hartung (sideline reporter) will be on the call for Amazon’s broadcast.

Patriots at Jets predictions, picks

Here are the USA TODAY Sports staff’s predictions for the “Thursday Night Football” Week 3 matchup:

Lorenzo Reyes: Jets 21, Patriots 17
Tyler Dragon: Jets 24, Patriots 16
Richard Morin: Jets 23, Patriots 22
Jordan Mendoza: Jets 17, Patriots 12

Jets vs. Patriots odds, moneyline, over/under

The Jets are favorites to defeat the Patriots, according to the BetMGM NFL odds. Looking to wager? Check out the best mobile sports betting apps offering NFL betting promos in 2024 including the ESPN BET app and Fanatics Sportsbook promo code.

Spread: Jets (-6.5)
Moneyline: Jets (-275); Patriots (+220)
Over/under: 38.5

Not interested in this game? Our guide to NFL betting odds, picks and spreads has you covered with Thursday Night Football odds and Monday Night Football odds.

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Oldest players in NFL in 2024

Just two players in 2024 NFL player pool surpass 40 years old: Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers and Bears tight end Marcedes Lewis. Coincidentally, both players were teammates on the Green Bay Packers earlier in their careers.

Here’s the full list of the top 11 oldest players in football:

QB Aaron Rodgers, Jets: 40 years old (Dec. 2, 1983)
TE Marcedes Lewis, Bears: 40 years old (May 19, 1984)
K Matt Prater, Rams: 39 years old (Aug. 10, 1984)
K Nick Folk, Titans: 39 years old (Nov. 5, 1984)
QB Joe Flacco, Colts: 39 years old (Jan. 16, 1985)
C/LS J.J. Jansen, Panthers: 38 years old (Jan. 20, 1986)
C/LS Jon Weeks, Texans: 38 years old (Feb. 17, 1986)
P Thomas Morstead, Jets: 38 years old (March 8, 1986)
C/LS Morgan Cox, Titans: 38 years old (April 26, 1986)
QB Josh Johnson, Ravens: 38 years old (May 15, 1986)
DL Calais Campbell, Dolphin: 38 years old (September 1, 1986)

Why isn’t Drake Maye starting?

While he hasn’t been elevated to starter just yet, it appears that New England has a plan to ease Maye into the starting quarterback role.

Is Haason Reddick playing vs. the Patriots?

Jets fans hoping to see their key offseason acquisition will have to wait. The pass rusher acquired from the Eagles hasn’t ended his holdout and has yet to play in 2024.

‘Everyone goes through their own process, and I’ll stand firm that when he gets here – we’re going to welcome him with open arms, we’re going to love him up and he’s going to be part of this football team,’ Jets head coach Robert Saleh said earlier in the season.

Bill Belichick landing spots: Could Jets be a viable option in 2025?

The biggest selling point for Belichick would have to come on the offensive side of the ball. While Belichick enjoyed a rocky few years at the end of the New England tenure, his experience managing Tom Brady would make him a suitable choice to manage Aaron Rodgers. If he brings in a young, up-and-coming offensive coordinator, the Jets may be able to get more excited about their offense than they have been with Saleh at the helm.

If Belichick simply planned on targeting retread coordinator hires, the Jets may sour on him. But at the very least, the Jets will probably give him an interview if they move on from Saleh after 2024. After all, Belichick was famously the one who got away back in 2000 when he joined the Patriots.

There are other landing spots that make sense for the “Hoodie,” as well.

Aaron Rodgers can continue to make NFL history in 2024

If Aaron Rodgers is Aaron Rodgers in 2024, then he could continue to cement his case as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.

Currently, Rodgers sits just 1,963 yards back of Hall of Fame Dolphins QB Dan Marino for eighth place on the all-time career passing list. That could be easy work for Rodgers if he jells with his skill position group, highlighted by wide receiver Garrett Wilson.

There’s a good chance that Rodgers could even surpass Matt Ryan for seventh by the time the season is over: Rodgers is just 3,394 yards behind Ryan’s place.

Of course, the yards don’t matter as much as the TDs: Rodgers has some work to do to catch up to former teammate Brett Favre. He’s 30 tuddies behind Favre for fourth-place all-time, a mark that’s possible to hit, but will take a vintage Rodgers to do it. – Joe Rivera

Career passing yardage list:

Tom Brady (2000-2022): 89,214
Drew Brees (2001-2020): 80,358
Peyton Manning (1998-2015): 71,940
Brett Favre (1991-2010): 71,838
Ben Roethlisberger (2004-2021): 64,088
Philip Rivers (2004-2020): 63,440
Matt Ryan (2008-2022): 62,792
Dan Marino (1983-1999): 61,361
Aaron Rodgers (2005-present): 59,398
Eli Manning (2004-2019): 57,023
Matthew Stafford (2009-present): 56,580

Career passing TDs list:

Tom Brady (2000-2022): 649
Drew Brees (2001-2020): 571
Peyton Manning (1998-2015): 539
Brett Favre (1991-2010): 508
Aaron Rodgers (2005-present): 478
Philip Rivers (2004-2020): 421
Dan Marino (1983-1999): 420
Ben Roethlisberger (2004-2021): 418
Matt Ryan (2008-2022): 381
Eli Manning (2004-2019): 366
Matthew Stafford (2009-present): 358

NFL team-by-team passing yardage leaders

Vice president Aaron Rodgers? Almost, but not quite

Earlier in 2024, Aaron Rodgers once again made headlines – by almost headlining a presidential ticket.

Rodgers was hotly rumored to be named as Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s running mate in the 2024 presidential election, but that didn’t come to pass.

RFK Jr. confirmed that he was speaking with Rodgers, but he ultimately selected California lawyer Nicole Shanahan – no relation to the football Shanahans – as his VP candidate instead.

Kennedy ultimately suspended his presidential campaign, sparing all of us a Rodgers cabinet appointment. – Joe Rivera

Who is the highest-paid edge rusher in the NFL?

Nick Bosa’s five-year, $170 million contract signed in 2023 with the San Francisco 49ers makes him not only the top-paid edge rusher, but also the NFL’s highest-paid defensive player. That’s a group that Jets edge rusher Haason Reddick looks to break into, but the possibility currently seems distant given his holdout.

C.J. Mosley among Jets inactives for ‘Thursday Night Football’

The Jets will be without a key defensive cog on Thursday night, as linebacker C.J. Mosley will be out while he nurses a foot injury. Mosley is a five-time, second-team All-Pro, signing with the Jets in 2019.

Robert Saleh career head coaching record

Since the Jets hired Saleh ahead of the 2021 season, he has led the Jets to a 19-34 record – a .358 win percentage.

New York has never qualified for the playoffs under Saleh.

Jets vs. Patriots weather update

There is just a 1 percent chance of precipitation throughout the game. A light breeze will blow but will be capped at about 5 mph. As such, the weather shouldn’t have much of an impact on the game.

Youngest NFL players in 2024

Denver Broncos running back Audric Estime was the only other NFL player close to 20 years old when the season started. He saw his first action with the Denver Broncos on Sept. 8, just two days after his 21st birthday.

The NFL’s 25 youngest players as of Sept. 1 were all less than 22 years old. They are as follows:

Braelon Allen, RB, Jets (20 years, 225 days)
Audric Estime, RB, Broncos (20 years, 360 days)
Nate Wiggins, CB, Ravens (21 years, 4 days)
Cam Little, K, Jaguars (21 years, 15 days)
Malik Nabers, WR, Giants (21 years, 35 days)
Trey Benson, RB, Cardinals (21 years, 42 days)
Keon Coleman, WR, Bills (21 years, 107 days)
Calen Bullock, S, Texans (21 years, 124 days)
Xavier Worthy, WR, Chiefs (21 years, 127 days)
Mekhi Wingo, DT, Lions (21 years, 137 days)

Patriots inactives: New England missing three starters

The Patriots are without three starters against the Jets: left tackle Vedarian Lowe, left guard Sidy Sow and middle linebacker Ja’Whaun Bentley. They also have decided to make Marco Wilson, who served as the team’s No. 4 cornerback in the first two games of the season, inactive in favor of Alex Austin and Marcellus Dial.

Patriots owner picked Jerod Mayo as Bill Belichick successor five years ago

Patriots owner Robert Kraft revealed in a pregame interview with Amazon Prime’s Taylor Rooks that he decided five years ago that Jerod Mayo would be Bill Belichick’s successor.

‘Jerod learned a lot from Bill in the technical background,’ Kraft said. ‘But they’re each special individuals. I’ve gotten to know Jerod over the last 15 years and, you know, I picked him 5 years ago to be our next head coach. It’s great that he had the ability to train under Bill.’

Mayo is making Kraft’s decision look like a sound one so far. Mayo led the Patriots to a surprising upset over the Bengals in Week 1 while New England took the Seahawks to overtime in Week 2 before losing by a field goal.

This story was updated to add new information.

Caitlin Clark scored eight points and handed out eight assists, but the Indiana Fever dropped their final game of the regular season, losing 92-91 at Washington. 

A WNBA-record 20,711 fans packed Washington’s Capital One Arena for the contest.

The game was of little importance, though, as Indiana had already locked up the sixth seed in the playoffs. The Fever will meet third-seeded Connecticut in the first round. The series will be a best of three, with the first two games scheduled to be played at Connecticut. If a Game 3 is necessary, Indiana will host it. 

Clark played less than 20 minutes Thursday at Washington, which Fever coach Christie Sides had warned might happen during Thursday’s pregame when she said the team would be especially cautious with all its starters. Clark shot 2-of-5 from the field, both of her made shots coming on 3s. She also grabbed five rebounds and one steal. 

Clark finishes the regular season averaging 19.2 points, a league-best 8.4 assists, 5.7 rebounds and 1.3 steals. (Clark also led the league in turnovers, with 5.6 per game, but it is common for guards who have the ball in their hands so much to top that stat category, too.) She’s broken numerous records in her first year as a pro, and is the heavy favorite to win Rookie of the Year next week when all league awards are announced. 

The Fever did have a scare when guard Kelsey Mitchell, who’s been on a tear post-Olympics, badly turned her left ankle early in the game. Mitchell was slow to get back on defense and, after she was subbed out, immediately headed back to the locker room. Mitchell didn’t start the second half, but she warmed up after the break, which means sitting her — she played less than five minutes — was likely precautionary. 

Kristy Wallace led the Fever Thursday with 17 points, while NaLyssa Smith chipped in 16. Sika Kone had 20 for Washington.

The New York Jets did something they hadn’t done in nine years on ‘Thursday Night Football.’ They beat the New England Patriots at MetLife Stadium.

The Jets crushed their divisional rival in a 24-3 rout that was every bit as one-sided as the scoreboard indicates. Aaron Rodgers enjoyed what was easily his best performance with the Jets, completing 27 of 35 passes for 281 yards and two touchdowns while consistently leading New York down the field.

New York’s running game was also strong against New England, but that didn’t stop NFL fans — and fantasy football aficionados — from noticing an interesting trend.

Rookie Braelon Allen was quite involved in the Jets’ running game. It wasn’t just after the game turned into a thrashing, either. He routinely spelled Breece Hall throughout the contest and actually outgained his touted counterpart by a yard.

Here’s what to know about the Jets’ carry split and whether it is a one-week aberration or a sign of things to come.

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

Breece Hall stats vs. Braelon Allen stats

Breece Hall stats vs. Patriots

Carries: 16
Rushing yards: 54
Rushing TDs: 1
Receptions: 4
Receiving yards: 29

Braelon Allen stats vs. Patriots

Carries: 11
Rushing yards: 55
Rushing TDs: 0
Receptions: 3
Receiving yards: 13

Both Hall and Allen saw plenty of action during the Jets’ Week 3 win over the Patriots, though Hall was still the clear-cut backfield leader for the Jets. He played 52 of the Jets’ 73 offensive snaps in the blowout compared to Allen’s 23 snaps. Isaiah Davis was the only other running back to play; he got three snaps in the fourth quarter of the 21-point win.

While Hall’s snap disparity is large, it’s worth noting that Hall only out-touched Allen 20-14 during the contest. That meant Allen touched the ball on 60.9% of his snaps, an impressively high mark. Comparatively, Hall’s usage rate sat at 38.5%.

Allen was also more efficient with his carries than Hall was against the Patriots. Allen averaged an even 5 yards per carry while Hall posted a below-average 3.4 yards per tote. Allen’s averages weren’t buoyed by any outliers either, as his longest carry was just 11 yards.

All told, Allen ran with good strength throughout the evening and ripped off some impressive runs against a solid Patriots defense. It was a good follow-up from his two-touchdown performance in Week 2 and should inspire confidence among the Jets’ coaching staff that he is ready for a bigger role despite being the NFL’s youngest player.

Jets RBs fantasy outlook: What to make of Breece Hall vs. Braelon Allen

Should fantasy owners share a similar confidence in Allen? And is it time for Hall’s fantasy football managers to panic?

Probably not.

Allen’s snap percentage didn’t change much from Week 2 to Week 3. He played 35% of the snaps against the Titans but actually saw action on just 31.5% of the snaps in Week 3. That percentage may have ticked down because of the blowout, but it’s also unlikely to improve significantly in a more competitive game — barring an injury to Hall.

Additionally, expecting Allen to get the ball on 60.9% of his snaps each week is unrealistic. The Jets obviously had a plan in place to get Allen touches in Week 3, and it helped that they were leading and able to run frequently throughout the contest.

Perhaps the Jets planned to give both Allen and Hall significant touches because of the short week. Either way, that type of 14-touch volume can’t be viewed as a given for Allen managers, especially in games where the Jets trail, as Hall remains the preferred pass-catching back.

As such, Allen looks more like a high-end fantasy handcuff. If Hall has to miss any time due to injury, Allen could emerge as a legitimate, high-volume starting running back. Until then, he will retain flex potential as a touchdown-dependent option.

Arch Manning will be making his highly-anticipated first college start for Texas this Saturday against Louisiana-Monroe, but according to the Warhawks’ defensive coordinator, the players don’t have much fear against him.

When asked about preparing to face Manning, defensive coordinator Earnest Hill said some of his players had played against Manning before when he was in high school. Manning attended Isidore Newman School in New Orleans, which is about 215 miles south of Louisiana-Monroe. Manning never won a state title during his high school career, so according to Hill, some of the Warhawks’ players have beaten him before so they have no fear against him.

‘We actually have some kids on our team that played against him in New Orleans,’ Hill said. ‘So they don’t hold too much fear against him. So they’re not gonna hold any fear against him.’

It’s certainly a bold statement coming from the Louisiana-Monroe coach after the game Manning had last week. Stepping in for the injured Quinn Ewers, Manning threw for 223 yards and four touchdowns, in addition to a 67-yard rushing score.

While Hill said some bulletin board material, he did give praise to the young signal-caller coming from a family full of NFL talent.

‘Manning, he’s been raised to be a quarterback. Both his uncles been very successful. So he’s been taught the right way. He’s been at every quarterback camp,’ he said. ‘He’s at Texas for a reason, and it’s an opportunity for him to actually start a game and see what he can do.’

The two teams will kickoff Saturday night in Austin, Texas at 8 p.m. ET. Texas is a 44.5-point favorite against Louisiana-Monroe, according to BetMGM.

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The attorneys for the woman who filed a lawsuit against former WWE CEO Vince McMahon for alleged abuse, sexual assault and human trafficking said they hope the upcoming Netflix documentary on the controversial wrestling figure will ‘portray the realities of his abusive and exploitative behavior.’

In January, former WWE employee Janel Grant filed a lawsuit in the state of Connecticut that detailed her experience at WWE’s headquarters. Grant alleged McMahon made her sign a non-disclosure agreement about their relationship for an agreed amount of $3 million, but she didn’t receive full payment from McMahon and wants to void the agreement with the lawsuit. Grant is also suing WWE’s former head of talent relations John Laurinaitis.

Next week, Netflix will release the docuseries ‘Mr. McMahon’on Sept. 25, promising to ‘delve into the mogul’s controversial reign’ in charge of the biggest wresting company in the world. In addition to interviews with McMahon himself and other prominent figures in wrestling, such as Dwyane ‘The Rock’ Johnson, Hulk Hogan and Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque, the series hints that filming took place when Grant’s lawsuit was announced.

Ann Callis, an attorney for Grant, said in a press briefing on Thursday she hopes the series will shed light on her client’s story and that she feel it ‘does it justice.’

‘Because of the extreme cruelty, degradation, exploitation and violence she was subjected to on a near daily basis for more than two years, (Grant) now suffers from severe Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, suicidal ideation and the inability to leave her home for weeks at a time,’ Callis said. ‘We hope it shines a light on the abhorrent actions of McMahon, frequently on WWE property, and it portrays the realities of his abusive and exploitative behavior.’

“I intend to vigorously defend myself against these baseless accusations, and look forward to clearing my name,” McMahon previously said in a statement to USA TODAY Sports.

Grant did not take part in ‘Mr. McMahon,’ Callis added, and did not clarify whether she was asked to be part of it. Callis only said Grant ‘deserves the opportunity to tell her full story, not be a part of someone else’s.’

‘(Grant) will get her day in court, and McMahon will be held accountable,’ Callis said. ‘She would like to expedite all proceedings as quickly as possible, and Janelle has the right to tell her story in her own way at the right time.’

While Grant wants to expedite the proceedings of the lawsuit, the case is currently paused because the U.S. Department of Justice is conducting its own investigation. Grant’s attorneys have not heard any updates on the federal investigation but said they want it to proceed quickly so her lawsuit may continue.

Last month, Grant also filed a petition to obtain her medical records from Dr. Carlon Colker. Callis said McMahon arranged visits for Grant to Colker and they’re requesting all communication between them. Colker and Peak Wellness filed an official complaint to the petition, stating it’s part of Grant’s ‘smear campaign’ against WWE.

When asked about any contact Grant has had with WWE since her lawsuit was filed, Callis said there was some initial ‘very brief’ outreach by WWE, but nothing from the company since.

‘Janelle Grant’s a human being. As I’ve said before, she deserves justice,’ Callis said. ‘She’s a victim and a survivor, she is not a WWE storyline.’

(This story was updated to correct typos.)

The fight between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson came together in stages and the matchup was not the only one under consideration, Paul explained during his podcast that posted online Thursday.

“It had always been a conversation (between) our teams,’’ Paul said. “Like, ‘They should fight, they should fight.’ But we got the deal done.’’

Paul was referring to the deal between Most Valuable Promotions, the company he co-founded, and Netflix, which will livestream the fight scheduled to be held Nov. 15 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

“Netflix was like, ‘All right, go out and talk to three different opponents,’ ” Paul said. “And we talked to Tommy Fury and Mike Tyson.’’

Fury, the brother of former heavyweight world champion Tyson Fury, handed Paul his only defeat. Fury won their eight-round cruiserweight bout in February 2023 by split decision, and the Netflix deal offered a chance for a rematch.

“Tommy had a big ego, was trying to get paid way more than he was worth and he doesn’t understand his value,’’ Paul said. “His dad is basically his manager. His dad doesn’t understand the boxing business and the state of it currently. And they didn’t understand that this would be one of the most viewed fights ever.

“So they were saying no while Mike Tyson was saying yes, and we’ve got it figured out with Mike.’’

The heavyweight bout between Tyson, 58, and Paul, 27, was announced in March. It has since become one of the most hyped fights in recent memory.

The San Francisco 49ers are entering their Week 3 game against the Los Angeles Rams significantly shorthanded on offense.

Both Christian McCaffrey and Deebo Samuel have already been ruled out for the divisional clash. McCaffrey is on IR with a calf injury and Achilles tendonitis while Samuel is dealing with a calf strain that he said will keep him out for a week or two.

Now, another member of the 49ers’ passing game has had his status for Week 3 thrown into question. That would be star tight end George Kittle.

Here’s what to know about Kittle’s status as the 49ers look to bounce back following a loss to the Minnesota Vikings.

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

George Kittle injury update

Kittle official did not participate in Thursday’s practice because of a hamstring injury, according to the 49ers’ injury report. He is reportedly dealing with ‘tightness in his hamstring’ that caused him to miss 49ers practice on Thursday. per ESPN’s Adam Schefter. His status for Week 3 is now ‘in question’ because of the injury.

Kittle played 51 of the 49ers’ 70 offensive snaps against the Vikings in Week 2. He recorded a team-high seven catches for 76 yards and a touchdown.

However, it’s also worth noting that Kittle was carted to the locker room while dealing with a cramping issue. He was given an IV and was able to return to the game.

But now, the veteran finds himself at less than 100 percent again as he looks to see the field in this week’s 49ers vs. Rams game.

Will George Kittle play Week 3?

Kittle’s status for the 49ers’ Week 3 game against the Rams is currently unknown. His availability may depend on whether he is able to practice Friday or whether he his hamstring injury improves with rest over the days before the Sunday afternoon matchup.

Neither Kittle nor the 49ers have addressed his status yet. An update should be expected by Friday afternoon, at the latest.

Who is George Kittle’s backup on 49ers depth chart?

Jake Tonges is the only other tight end on the 49ers’ 53-man roster. The third-year pro has never caught a pass during his NFL career. Neither have the two tight ends San Francisco has on its practice squad, Brayden Willis and Mason Pline.

Saubert would likely get most of the 49ers’ reps if Kittle can’t play, but fullback Kyle Juszczyk can’t be counted out from having a role to play at the position. Still, San Francisco being without Kittle could be catastrophic for their offense, especially with Samuel and McCaffrey already sidelined.

George Kittle stats

Kittle has recorded 11 catches for 116 yards so far this season. Both marks rank second on the 49ers behind only Samuel.

Kittle is also the lone 49ers player to catch a touchdown pass from Brock Purdy. Samuel and Jordan Mason have combined to score San Francisco’s three other touchdowns thus far in 2024, but all have come on the ground.

CLEVELAND — There will be playoff baseball in Cleveland.

The Guardians clinched a playoff spot with Thursday’s win over the Minnesota Twins, improving their record to 89-65. They’re the third team to secure a playoff berth, along with the New York Yankees and Milwaukee Brewers on Wednesday night.

With one out in the 10th inning and Jose Ramirez on second as the potential winning run, Andres Gimenez hit a single to right field to win it 3-2. It’s the Guardians’ second consecutive walk-off win and the first time they’ve won in walk-off fashion in extra innings in back-to-back games since September 2018.

After a one-year hiatus, the Guardians will play into October. They also made the playoffs in 2022 (92 wins) and in 2020 during the season that was shortened due to COVID.

Cleveland Guardians standings in American League; playoff schedule

The next task is for the Guardians to wrap up the American League Central. They now have a 6.5-game lead over the Kansas City Royals, and their magic number is down to three, meaning they could clinch the division as early as Saturday in St. Louis.

All things Guardians: Latest Cleveland Guardians news, schedule, roster, stats, injury updates and more.

The final step will be to lock up one of the top two seeds in the American League, which would allow them to skip the initial wild card round. The Yankees (89-63) would own the No. 1 seed if the playoffs started today. The Guardians are currently in line to finish as the No. 2 seed. The Houston Astros (82-70) are trying to catch the Guardians for that No. 2 spot.

As for the wild card race, the Baltimore Orioles are in line for the first spot at 84-68. There is then a razor-thin race for the last two spots between three AL Central teams, the Royals (82-71), the Twins (80-73) and the Detroit Tigers (80-73). The Tigers have recently been the hottest team in baseball.

If the Guardians do secure one of the two top seeds in the AL, their first playoff game would be slated for Oct. 5 at Progressive Field. If they are the No. 2 seed, they’d play the winner between the No. 3 seed and the No. 6 seed.

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