There are a lot of unwritten rules in hockey and New York Rangers goalie Jonathan Quick thought the Detroit Red Wings violated one.

That why’s Quick lost it and precipitated a major scrum at the end of the Red Wings’ 2-1 win against the Rangers on Sunday, Nov. 16.

The issue: Detroit’s Mason Appleton put the puck into the Rangers’ empty net after the final buzzer had sounded. Quick, who had been pulled for an extra skater, came off the bench and challenged Appleton.

‘The horn goes, a couple seconds, and he shoots at the net,’ said Quick, who made 40 saves in the loss. ‘I don’t know why they were surprised. That’s usually the response when something like that happens. Boys jumped in and did the right thing.’

A lot of pushing and shoving and some punches ensued. On-ice officials pushed Quick to the side and another kept Red Wings goalie Cam Talbot away from the fray.

The only penalties that were called were unsportsmanlike conduct against Quick and a 10-minute misconduct each against Quick and Appleton.

The Denver Broncos defeated the Kansas City Chiefs 22-19 with a last-second field goal.
This victory marked the Broncos’ eighth consecutive win and extended their lead in the AFC West.
Denver’s win was their fifth fourth-quarter comeback of the season.
The Chiefs, now 5-5, have lost all five of their one-score games this season.

DENVER – They’ve done it again.

This time, the Denver Broncos comeback victory came with an added layer of purpose: They slayed the Kansas City Chiefs.

The Broncos hung one on their arch AFC West rival, 22-19, winning with a 35-yard Wil Lutz field goal as time expired in a thriller at Invesco Field. The kick, Lutz’s fifth field goal, was set up by a 32-yard completion to Troy Franklin in the final minute.

Oh, my.

The result, which was Denver’s eighth consecutive win and fifth seized with a fourth-quarter comeback, gave the Broncos (9-2) a commanding lead in the division while putting the Chiefs (5-5) further in jeopardy of not making the playoffs.

And no, there was no counter-magic coming from Patrick Mahomes.

The Chiefs took a 19-16 lead early in the fourth quarter with Mahomes’ 21-yard touchdown pass to Travis Kelce, but the Broncos rode the back of their vaunted defense to give them a chance in crunch time.

Denver thwarted Kansas City’s final two drives, which sandwiched a 54-yard try from Lutz.

Broncos keep winning one-score games, once a Chiefs trademark

The ending followed what has become a familiar script. The Broncos are now 7-2 in one-score games – which used to be a Chiefs trademark.

Consider how it’s flipped, along with the prospects of Kansas City winning a 10th consecutive division crown. The Chiefs are 0-5 in one-score game this season.

Last season, in advancing to their third consecutive Super Bowl, the Chiefs were 11-0 in one-score games and set an NFL record with 17 consecutive victories in one-score games.

The latest close call, though, stings more than most – and not only because the Chiefs’ chances of rallying to repeat as division champs are slipping away.

Is it time to believe in the Broncos?

It was a legitimate question, despite the winning streak. The offense has struggled. The Broncos have been hit by key injuries. And until now, there was still the Chiefs monster.

Ironically, Lutz’s winning kick came from the same distance as the kick in Kansas City in November last year, which was blocked as time expired to preserve a KC win.

But times have changed.

And with a 3½ game lead on the Chiefs, the Broncos are forcing us to believe.

Contact Jarrett Bell at jbell@usatoday.com or follow on  X: @JarrettBell

The Philadelphia Eagles rode a dominant defensive performance to a 16-9 win over the Detroit Lions in a Week 11 ‘Sunday Night Football’ clash between the NFC contenders.

Vic Fangio’s stop unit relentlessly pressured Jared Goff throughout Sunday’s contest. They sacked the veteran quarterback just twice, but he was hit often during the game, which clearly rattled him.

Goff completed a career-low 37.8% of his passes (14 of 37) for 255 yards, no touchdowns and an interception in the loss. The 31-year-old was sped up by the frequent pressure and never looked comfortable in the pocket.

But while Philadelphia’s defense starred, its offense continued to have its share of issues. The unit was under the microscope in Week 11 after A.J. Brown called it out in an appearance on a Twitch livestream following the team’s 10-7 win over the Green Bay Packers.

Nick Sirianni and Kevin Patullo made a concerted effort to get Brown more involved. He ended up leading the Eagles in targets (11), catches (7) and receiving yards (49) during the game.

However, the overall passing game continued to look lackluster, as Jalen Hurts completed just 14 of 28 passes for 135 yards. They had just one completion of 20-plus yards and simply aren’t the same explosive unit they were at times last season.

Perhaps Eagles fans can take some solace in knowing Saquon Barkley showed signs of life. He racked up 86 rushing yards, his third-most in a game this season, and had several nifty runs late in the game, including a game-winning 8-yard tote on the team’s penultimate offensive snap.

But Sirianni and Co. still have some work to do on that side of the ball, even as they lead the NFC with an 8-2 record 11 weeks into the 2025 NFL season.

USA TODAY Sports provided live updates, highlights and more from the matchup below. All times are Eastern.

Watch ‘Sunday Night Football’ with Fubo (free trial)

Eagles vs. Lions SNF instant takeaways

More involvement for A.J. Brown doesn’t fix the Eagles’ offense: Brown (seven catches, 49 yards) was far more involved against the Lions than he has been in recent weeks. Even so, Philadelphia struggled to sustain and finish drives, scoring just one touchdown and benefiting greatly from Detroit gifting it great field position on numerous occasions. Nick Sirianni and Kevin Patullo still have some work to do to get this unit figured out as the Eagles look to make another Super Bowl run.
The Eagles’ improved pass rush makes them a true contender: Philadelphia’s offense may have issues, but its defense is one of the best in the league. One of the big reasons for that? Vic Fangio has done a masterful job of compensating for the offseason losses of Milton Williams and Josh Sweat to rebuild the Eagles’ pass rush. The addition of Jaelan Phillips and the development of Moro Ojomo have played a significant role in Philadelphia maintaining a top-tier defensive line. If the Eagles can pressure opposing quarterbacks like they did Jared Goff, it will be hard to beat them during the postseason.
Dan Campbell’s aggressiveness is a double-edged sword: When Campbell’s aggressive fourth-down decision-making pays off, it gives the Lions a big-time edge. However, it can also be a hindrance on evenings where Detroit’s offense is out of whack. That was the case against the Eagles, as the Lions went 0 for 5 on fourth-down conversion attempts. Detroit’s inability to convert helped Philadelphia win the field position battle on a windy night. That proved critical in the low-scoring battle.
Jahmyr Gibbs is one of the NFL’s most electric playmakers: Gibbs was just about the Lions’ only bright spot during a lackluster offensive performance. The star running back ended up leading the team in receiving yards and ripped off a couple of lengthy gains on screen passes, during which he showed off his elite speed and change-of-direction abilities. Gibbs should continue to be a focal point of Detroit’s offense, as he remains a threat to go the distance every time he touches the ball.

Jalen Hurts stats vs. Lions

14-of-28 (50% completion rate)
135 passing yards
0 passing touchdowns
0 interceptions
63.8 passer rating
10 rushing attempts
31 rushing yards
1 rushing touchdown

A.J. Brown stats vs. Lions

7 receptions (11 targets)
49 receiving yards
0 receiving touchdowns

Saquon Barkley stats vs. Lions

26 rushing attempts
83 rushing yards
0 rushing touchdowns
1 reception (2 targets)
7 receiving yards
0 receiving touchdowns

Jared Goff stats vs. Eagles

14-of-37 (37.8% completion rate)
255 passing yards
1 passing touchdown
1 interception
60.1 passer rating
1 rushing attempts
-1 rushing yard

Amon-Ra St. Brown stats vs. Eagles

2 receptions (12 targets)
42 receiving yards
0 receiving touchdowns

Eagles vs. Lions highlights

Eagles vs. Lions final score: Eagles 16, Lions 9

Saquon Barkley runs for first down to seal Eagles win

The Eagles won’t allow the Lions to get the ball back. Barkley just crossed the line to gain on a third-down carry and Philadelphia will improve to 8-2 after a hard-fought defensive battle.

Rock Ya-Sin whistled for controversial pass interference call

The Eagles decided to throw the ball on third-and-8. Ya-Sin had tight coverage on A.J. Brown but was flagged for pass interference after hand fighting between the two players.

The Lions still have one timeout left, but the Eagles will be able to bleed most of the time remaining on the clock.

Eagles vs. Lions score: Jake Bates makes 54-yard field goal as 2-minute warning arrives

The Lions weren’t able to get a first down after stopping the Eagles, but Bates came on to attempt a 54-yard field goal. The former soccer player nailed it, cutting the Eagles’ lead to 16-9 with 1:58 left in regulation.

Detroit has all three timeouts remaining, so they will have to stop Philadelphia once to get the ball back.

Eagles 16, Lions 9

Lions have life after stopping ‘Tush Push’ in field goal range

The Eagles decided to try a ‘Tush Push’ on fourth-and-inches with three minutes left in regulation. The Lions managed to stop Jalen Hurts before he made the line to gain, giving Detroit the ball on the edge of field goal range.

The Lions have 2:57 and three timeouts remaining, trailing 16-6.

Lions, facing fourth-and-10, forced to punt with 5:06 remaining

The Lions got the ball close to midfield, but they stalled again when Goff couldn’t complete a pass under pressure. Dan Campbell opted not to go for it on fourth-and-10, so Detroit’s defense will need to get a stop quickly, trailing 16-6.

Eagles punt back to Lions with 6:14 left in regulation

The Eagles were able to run nearly three minutes off the clock, but they opted to punt after a false start on a ‘Tush Push’ attempt on fourth-and-inches. The Lions are trailing 16-6 and will need to get into scoring range quickly to have any chance at making the comeback.

Lions forced to punt after three consecutive incompletions

Jahmyr Gibbs managed to get a first down after handling a carry to open Detroit’s drive. After that, Goff tossed three consecutive incompletions as his struggles continued.

The Eagles nearly muffed Jack Fox’s punt after a blocker nearly crashed into the return man, but the ball ended up bouncing harmlessly out of bounds. Philadelphia will now look to grind some clock, leading 16-6 with 9:06 left in regulation.

Eagles vs. Lions score: Jake Elliott drills 49-yard field goal to give Philly two-score lead

The Eagles only gained 25 yards on an 11-play drive following the Lions’ latest fourth-down failure. Still, it was enough to get into range for Elliott, who managed to make a 49-yarder with ease while kicking with the wind.

Philadelphia now leads Detroit 16-6 with 10:15 remaining in regulation.

Eagles 16, Lions 6

Eagles leading Lions 13-6 entering fourth quarter

Detroit is outgaining Philadelphia 286-183 on the evening, as Jahmyr Gibbs has been a force through the air with five catches for 107 yards. 

The issue? The Lions haven’t been able to finish drives. Dan Campbell has been aggressive with his play-calling, but Detroit has failed to convert any of its five fourth-down attempts while Jared Goff was also responsible for an early-game interception.

Will things change in the fourth quarter? The Eagles will open the quarter facing a second-and-18, but the Lions’ issues haven’t been on defense. They will need to get a stop, but the offense has to find a way to get into the end-zone.

Jared Goff misfires again on fourth-and-3, turns ball over on downs

The Eagles have gotten a lot of pressure on Goff throughout the night. He appears to be rattled, as he has often misfired in key passing scenarios tonight.

That includes the Lions’ most recent fourth-down conversion attempt. Goff tried to connect with Amon-Ra St. Brown, but his throw wasn’t anywhere near his top receiver.

Detroit is now 0 for 5 on fourth-down conversions, but Dan Campbell seems likely to remain aggressive on a windy night in Philadelphia.

Eagles flip field but are forced to punt

The good news for the Eagles? They managed to get the ball to midfield after starting at their own 4-yard line. They got there after a big strike to Jahan Dotson and a personal foul penalty against Brian Branch.

After that, however, Philadelphia once again stalled out, with Jalen Hurts’ third-and-15 heave to A.J. Brown sailing well past the wide-out. Braden Mann came on to punt and the Lions will get the ball back on their own 15-yard line.

Lions can’t convert fourth-and-goal, as Jared Goff tosses incompletion

The Lions have now turned the ball over on downs four times. This time, Dan Campbell’s squad went for it on a fourth-and-goal from the 4-yard line in a game they were trailing 13-6.

The Eagles were able to get pressure on Jared Goff, who fired a desperation heave in the direction of Amon-Ra St. Brown that fell harmlessly to the ground. Goff appeared to have tight end Brock Wright open on the right side of the field, but it wasn’t clear whether he saw him.

Detroit’s latest turnover came at the end of a promising drive that was led by Jahmyr Gibbs. The young back had a 42-yard gain on a screen pass and some tough runs between the tackles to get the Lions into scoring range.

Eagles whistled for false start on ‘Tush Push’

The Eagles were lining up to attempt the ‘Tush Push’ on third-and-1, but Tyler Steen was whistled for a false start. It appeared to be the incorrect call, as the Lions’ defender had his hand in the neutral zone and Steen reached down to touch it, which should have created a neutral zone infraction penalty.

Philadelphia was forced to punt after an incompletion on third-and-5, giving Detroit a chance to cut into the Eagles’ 13-6 lead.

Lions log third turnover on downs as Jared Goff can’t connect with Jameson Williams

The Lions found themselves in no man’s land, facing a fourth-and-5 on their first drive of the second half. Goff had Williams streaking open over the middle of the field, but the wide-out couldn’t bring in the pass, which came in a bit low but was catchable.

Amon-Ra St. Brown also had a potential first down glance off his hands on a third-down pass.

Lane Johnson injury update

The Eagles have ruled out their starting right tackle, Lane Johnson, for the remainder of Sunday’s game with a foot injury.

Eagles leading Lions 13-6 in back-and-forth first half

Both the Eagles and Lions started the game slowly on offense amid windy conditions at Lincoln Financial Field. Each offense started to pick up the pace late in the first half, as the two traded touchdowns to close the half.

The Lions have relied on their passing game to carry them, as Jared Goff has completed 7 of 12 passes for 119 yards, one touchdown and one interception. He struggled early to complete passes in the wind but was able to lay one up perfectly to Jameson Williams (two catches, 59 yards) for the team’s lone score.

Meanwhile, the Eagles have gotten the ball in Lions territory on three of their possessions, thanks to Goff’s interceptions and two turnovers on downs. Jalen Hurts has the team’s lone score – a 1-yard ‘Tush Push’ TD – while A.J. Brown (six catches, 43 yards) has been very involved in Philadelphia’s offense.

Detroit will get the ball to start the second half.

Eagles vs. Lions score: Eagles score on ‘Tush Push’ after Saquon Barkley ruled short

The Eagles appeared to get a score on a 5-yard Barkley run, but he was just inches short of the goal-line with 32 seconds left in the first half. That didn’t bother the Eagles too much, as Jalen Hurts simply powered the ball the last foot into the end zone.

Jake Elliott made the extra point, and Philadelphia leads 13-6 with 16 seconds left in the first half.

Eagles 13, Lions 6

Eagles vs. Lions score: Jared Goff hits Jameson Williams for 40-yard touchdown

The Lions are on the board with the game’s first touchdown. Goff found Williams breaking across the middle of the field and hit the speedster, who outran the Eagles’ defense for a score.

Williams was flagged for an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty for his celebration after scoring. Jake Bates missed the backed-up extra point amid a strong, left-to-right wind, keeping the score tied at 6-all with 5:05 left in the second quarter.

Eagles 6, Lions 6

Eagles vs. Lions score: Jake Elliott makes 34-yard field goal to extend Philly lead

This time, the Eagles capitalized on the Lions’ turnover on downs. Jalen Hurts hit A.J. Brown for a 10-yard gain on third-and-15 to set Elliott up with a makeable field goal.

Philadelphia originally bluffed as if it was going for it on fourth-and-5 but called a timeout and brought Elliott out. He made the 34-yard kick with ease to give the Eagles a 6-0 lead with 6:02 left in the first half.

Eagles sniff out Lions fake punt, come up with key stop

The Lions looked like they were going to go three-and-out after Jared Goff and Amon-Ra St. Brown couldn’t connect on a middle-of-the-field pass. However, Dan Campbell and Co. decided to fake a punt, and snapped the ball to personal protector Grant Stuard on a fourth-and-2.

The Eagles were able to come up with the stop, as Moro Ojomo and Jalyx Hunt were credited with making the stop. Philadelphia will once again have good field position, already at the Detroit 43-yard line.

Jalen Hurts throws three incompletions as Eagles go three-and-out

The Eagles could not take advantage of the great field position gifted to them by the Lions. Hurts was unable to connect with his receivers on three downfield shots, with his final pass intended for DeVonta Smith being broken up by Amik Robertson.

Braden Mann’s punt went just 28 yards in the wind. Kalif Raymond fair caught it but a 15-yard penalty on Jeremiah Trotter Jr. of the Eagles gifted the Lions extra yardage. As a result, Philadelphia only netted 13 yards of field position from the punt.

Jahmyr Gibbs stopped short of line on fourth-and-1 carry

The Lions decided to go for it on fourth-and-1 near midfield but Gibbs was stonewalled by Eagles defensive tackle Moro Ojomo. Philadelphia now gets the ball back in excellent field position at Detroit’s 48-yard line, looking to build upon its 3-0 lead.

DeVonta Smith can’t handle third-and-8 pass, forcing punt

The Eagles continue to struggle to move the ball offensively. Jalen Hurts tried to hit Smith just short of the sticks on a third-and-8 to open the second quarter, but the top wide-out was unable to reel in the pass.

Braden Mann’s punt traveled 44 yards and Detroit will get the ball back on its 39-yard line.

Eagles leading Lions 3-0 after first quarter

Neither Philadelphia nor Detroit was able to build much rhythm on offense in the first half. Both teams appear to be adjusting to the windy conditions in Philadelphia, as the two teams combined for just 98 yards of offense.

The Eagles’ lone scoring drive was set up by a Jared Goff interception that was deflected at the line of scrimmage. Nick Sirianni and Jalen Hurts also appear to be making a concerted effort to get A.J. Brown the ball, as he was targeted four times on Hurts’ seven passing attempts in the opening frame.

Lions punt after stalling out beyond midfield

The Lions got near the edge of Jake Bates’ field goal range, but given the windy conditions, the team decided not to attempt the kick. Instead, Detroit bluffed going for it on a fourth-and-6 but ultimately took a delay of game and punted.

Jack Fox’s punt went 30 yards and was fair caught by the Eagles at their 15-yard line.

Lane Johnson injury update

The Eagles announced that Johnson, their starting right tackle, is ‘questionable’ to return to Sunday’s game because of a foot injury.

The NBC broadcast showed Johnson walking slowly to the Eagles’ locker room during the first quarter. Fred Johnson would likely replace Johnson at right tackle if he’s unable to return.

Eagles pass on ‘Tush Push’ opportunity, stuffed on third down

The Eagles were facing a third-and-1 on their most recent drive, and almost everyone assumed they would run their ‘Tush Push’ play. Instead, the team ran the ball up the middle with Saquon Barkley but saw him get stuffed for a 1-yard loss.

Philadelphia had to punt after losing a yard. Braden Mann’s kick once again pinned Detroit inside its own 15-yard line.

Lions go three-and-out on second possession as Jaelan Phillips gets sack

Phillips was Philadelphia’s prized trade deadline acquisition, and he is immediately making an impact for the team. He quickly got pressure on Jared Goff during the Lions’ second drive and managed to bring down the quarterback for a sack.

Goff couldn’t convert on a third-and-long pass that fell short of his intended receiver, so Detroit punted the ball back to Philadelphia.

Eagles vs. Lions score: Jake Elliott makes 27-yard field goal to open scoring

The Eagles are on the board first for ‘Sunday Night Football.’ They weren’t able to turn Jared Goff’s turnover into a touchdown, as Rock Ya-Sin had nice coverage on A.J. Brown on a third-and-8 to force the fourth-and-long, but Elliott was able to make the chip shot without a problem despite windy conditions.

Philadelphia now leads 3-0 early in the first quarter.

Eagles 3, Lions 0

Jared Goff pass deflected, intercepted by Cooper DeJean

Goff completed a couple of horizontal passes to open the game, but his third pass was deflected at the line of scrimmage. It popped into the air and into the waiting arms of DeJean, who brought it inside the red zone to set up a quality scoring chance for the Eagles.

Lions force Eagles punt after holding penalty

The Eagles got on first down on their opening drive, but they stalled out after that, thanks, in part, to a first-down holding penalty.

Braden Mann’s punt was fielded by Kalif Raymond at Detroit’s 15-yard line, which is about where Detroit will start its first offensive drive.

A.J. Brown applauded after catching first down to open game

Brown made headlines ahead of Week 11 after calling upon the Eagles’ offense to perform better. He also has been vocal about wanting to be more involved, as he is on pace for a career-worst season, so the Philly crowd gave him a rousing cheer after Jalen Hurts hit him for a first down on the Eagles’ first drive of the game.

Who are the announcers for Eagles vs. Lions on NBC?

Mike Tirico will handle play-by-play duties during the game, with Cris Collinsworth providing color commentary and Melissa Stark reporting from the sidelines.

NBC’s weekly ‘Football Night in America’ pregame show will begin at 7 p.m. ET and feature insight from a panel of analysts, including Maria Taylor, Jason Garrett, Chris Simms, Mike Florio, Devin McCourty, Tony Dungy, and more. 

What time is the Eagles vs. Lions game on tonight?

Start time: 8:20 p.m. ET

The Eagles and Lions are scheduled for an 8:20 p.m. kickoff, the customary start time for ‘SNF.’ The Lions travel to Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania for the matchup.

What channel is the Eagles vs. Lions Sunday Night Football game?

TV channel: NBC

NBC is the broadcast home of ‘SNF.’ Mike Tirico will be on the call with Cris Collinsworth, as Melissa Stark will provide reports from the sideline.

Eagles vs. Lions stream

Live stream:Fubo | Peacock

Cord-cutters looking to watch the ‘SNF’ matchup between the Eagles and Lions can tune to Fubo, which carries NBC and offers a free trial.

Peacock, NBC’s proprietary streaming service, will also carry the matchup.

Watch ‘Sunday Night Football’ with Fubo (free trial)

Eagles vs. Lions prediction

The Eagles have to figure out the A.J. Brown situation, and fast. While Philadelphia has gotten to a 7-2 record without solving that equation just yet, Brown’s apparent disdain of the offense has made somewhat unwanted headlines and back pages throughout the season. The Lions will get the big-time road win and stay atop the NFC North.

Prediction: Lions 30, Eagles 24

Eagles vs. Lions live betting odds, moneyline, O/U

Eagles inactives vs. Lions

Lions inactives vs. Eagles

Eagles schedule 2025

Lions schedule 2025

Eagles vs. Lions injury report

Is Sam LaPorta playing tonight vs. Eagles?

No, the Lions tight end was placed on Injured Reserve before Week 11 with a back injury. He will now miss at least four games, starting with tonight’s ‘Sunday Night Football’ matchup against the Eagles.

Is AJ Brown playing tonight vs. Lions?

Brown had no injury designation on the Eagles’ Week 11 injury report after he was a full participant in practice all week.

He appears to be a full-go for ‘Sunday Night Football’ against the Lions.

NFC North standings

The Lions enter ‘Sunday Night Football’ in second place in the NFC North. Here’s how the division stacks up:

Chicago Bears (7-3)
Detroit Lions (6-3)
Green Bay Packers (6-3-1)
Minnesota Vikings (4-6)

NFC East standings

The Eagles enter ‘Sunday Night Football’ in first place in the NFC East. Here’s how the division stacks up:

Philadelphia Eagles (7-2)
Dallas Cowboys (3-5-1)
Washington Commanders (3-8)
New York Giants (2-9)

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INGLEWOOD, CA — In a league dominated by offense, defense is still the recipe for success.

The 8-2 Los Angeles Rams defense had Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold playing as if he was seeing ghosts in a 21-19 win. The Rams victory gave them sole possession of first place in the NFC West, with Seattle trailing at 7-3.

“I feel like we did our thing. The D-line was able to get after him (and) our DBs was able to make the plays that came their way,” Rams outside linebacker Jared Verse said.

Darnold threw an interception on the Seahawks’ third offensive play. The pick typified the entire performance for the quarterback, as Darnold tossed four interceptions during Seattle’s loss. It marked Darnold’s third four-interception game and the first time he’d thrown four picks since the 2019 season.

“That’s our main goal, taking the ball away. Defense wins championships. I feel like we got that mentality,” Rams cornerback Cobie Durant, who had one of the team’s four interceptions, said postgame.

Even with Darnold’s interception issues, the Seahawks stayed within striking distance thanks to a solid performance from their defensive unit. Darnold and the Seahawks had an opportunity for a game-winning drive on their final possession. Seattle drove the football up to Los Angeles’ 43-yard line with one second remaining, but Seahawks kicker Jason Myers was unable to connect on a desperation 61-yard field goal.

In addition to the Rams’ four takeaways, the defensive unit held Seattle to 1-for-4 in the red zone, 7-of-16 on third downs, five field goal attempts and gave up only one touchdown despite the Seahawks possessing the football for nearly 38 minutes.  

Coming into Sunday’s contest, Seattle was averaging 30 points per game.

“I can’t say enough about what a great job our defense did to be able to get four interceptions,” Rams coach Sean McVay. “This is a resilient group. Love what I saw from our defense.”

With MVP candidate Stafford held in check, Rams bank on stops

The Rams came into Week 11 with one of the top offenses in the league. Quarterback Matthew Stafford is an MVP candidate. Yet Stafford and the Rams offense were largely contained.

Stafford passed for 130 yards and two touchdowns. One of Stafford’s touchdown passes went to wide receiver Davante Adams, who recorded his league-leading 10th touchdown reception on his 1,000th career catch. He became the fifth wide receiver in NFL history with 1,000 receptions in their first 12 seasons on the play.

But there were few highlights from a Rams offense that punted six times and went 2-11 on third downs.

“Total team effort. Our defense played outstanding. Turning the ball over a bunch of times. Great in the red zone. I thought our special teams was great,” Stafford said. “There are definitely things we can clean up here and there, but we battled … We found a way to win without playing perfect football against a really good football team.”

The victory should give the Rams a jolt of confidence. Not only are they in first place in the division, but they defeated a good Seahawks club without playing their best brand off football offensively.

Adams only had one catch. Wide receiver Puka Nacua registered seven catches for 75 yards – an average game by his standards. And Stafford was contained.

Yet, the Rams found a way to win behind a suburb defensive performance. Good teams find ways to win even if they don’t perform at their peak.   

Follow USA TODAY Sports’ Tyler Dragon on X @TheTylerDragon.

The men’s team pursuit set a new world record, while the women’s team pursuit won bronze on the final day of the World Cup speed skating event at the Utah Olympic Oval.
Mia Manganello won gold in the women’s mass start, and Erin Jackson took silver in the 500 meters.
Jordan Stolz won three gold medals earlier in the weekend but did not medal on the final day.

KEARNS, Utah — Jordan Stolz isn’t the only American speed skater who will be a medals threat at the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics.

Though Stolz was kept off the World Cup podium Sunday – missing a medal in the second 500 meters by a mere 0.01 seconds – his U.S. teammates collected plenty of hardware.

Casey Dawson, Emery Lehman and Ethan Cepuran won the men’s team pursuit with a world-record time. Brittany Bowe, Mia Manganello and Greta Myers won bronze in the women’s team pursuit. Manganello then won gold in the women’s mass start.

Erin Jackson won a second silver medal in the women’s 500 meters, and her time of 36.57 seconds Sunday was a personal best.

This after Stolz won the 500, 1,000 and 1,500 meters the first two days of the World Cup, flirting with world records in both the 1,000 and the 1,500.

“It’s a really good start,” Jackson said. “I think we still have a lot more to show as well. We have a lot of deep talent in our team, and I think it’s going to be a good season for us.”

Do not read anything into the fact Stolz missed the podium Sunday, finishing fourth in the 500 and 15th in the mass start, which he raced for the first time at a World Cup since 2021. Olympic gold medals are not won, or lost, at the first World Cup of the season.

Rather, this weekend was a good way to gauge where you are. Where your competition is. What’s working. What needs tweaking.

“I was a little tired today from the previous races, but I think I’m in a good spot right now,” Stolz said Sunday night. “And as I get stronger, it’s going to get even better.”

Stolz leaves with three wins, a personal best and a lot of data points that will help him be even better at the Milano Cortina Olympics in February.

He also put himself in good position to lock a spot on the U.S. team ahead of the Olympic trials, needing only a top-five finish in either the 500, 1,000 or 1,500 meters at one of the next three World Cups. The next World Cup is next weekend in Calgary, Alberta.

Though Stolz was fourth in the 500, he skated faster than he had in Saturday’s race, which he won.

“I felt like I skated a better race today. I just didn’t have the power in the legs after all the races,” Stolz said.

But that is not an indication of … anything, coming at the end of a weekend in which he raced five times and his top competitors all having the races of their lives. Stolz’s performances over the first two days reinforced his status as the favorite in all three of the distances.

“He skated really well, won three races, so we know we’re in the right place and can’t worry about anything else,” Bob Corby, Stolz’s coach, said. “Just got to go back training again and try to play the balance of training and resting from now until Olympic trials and the Games.

“When it came up No. 4 (in the 500), I was like, `Oh! OK. Well, it’s OK.’ If it was four yesterday and four today, it would’ve been a little concerning,” Corby added. “But it was OK.”

Stolz also got a refresher on the mass start, which he hopes to race in Milan. His 15th-place finish keeps him in the ‘A’ race and, more importantly, gives him valuable intel of the competition for the next time he races it.

“I didn’t really have a strategy because it was the first one and I wanted to see what everybody else was doing,” Stolz said. “I’ll have to keep working on it and figure out which each guy does in the race.”

It’s one World Cup, and there are still 2½ months until Milan. But Stolz and the Americans are off to a strong start.

LAKE PLACID, NY — It was as if Alysa Liu couldn’t believe it. 

As her free skate ended and the crowd rose to their feet, the 20-year-old figure skater threw her hands on her head. She needed a big day on Sunday, Nov. 16 to win first place at 2025 Skate America, and she felt like she didn’t perform as well as she could’ve.

‘In my opinion, I did not skate that good,’ Liu said. ‘That’s why I was just like ‘ah, silly mistake.”

Despite how she felt her program went, the day ended with the hardware around her neck matching the color of her dress: gold. 

Liu delivered a powerful free skate to win Skate America for the first time in her career, and continue her stellar run as she heads toward returning to the Winter Olympics.

Liu delivered an emotional short program on Saturday, Nov. 16, letting the tears come down as the crowd serenaded her with a standing ovation. She considered herself “lucky to be able to cry over something,’ she said.

For as good as the performance was, Liu knew there were a couple of mistakes that likely left some points off her scoresheet. It showed with a second-place finish, less than a point behind Rinka Watanabe of Japan.

As the second-to-last skater inside the famed Herb Brooks Arena, Liu crushed her ‘MacArthur Park Suite” program, nailing her moves despite not feeling like performed her best. She earned a score of 140.54, a season-best for the one-time Olympian that set herself up for a chance at the top of the podium.

‘My body just moves with the music,’ Liu said of this free skate, which she brought back after using last season. ‘When I when I was like, oh, maybe I’ll go back to this program. I was like, no yeah, go back to this program. I love this program. It’s a great program.’

Watanabe was the final skater, and even though she had an early stumble, she was still strong with her triple axels. It looked like she had a good shot at first, but she received a 136.61, putting her total more than three points behind Liu.

It’s been quite the year for Liu. She won the world championship in March and finished second at the Cup of China less than a month ago. Now with the win at Skate America, she has her first Grand Prix win of her career, which will send her to the Grand Prix finals in December.

The strong year gives hope that Liu can be the American star should she qualify for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano-Cortina. The United States haven’t had a woman win a medal in the single’s event since Sasha Cohen in 2006, the longest drought the Americans have gone without taking home a medal.

Now after a strong showing in Lake Placid, New York, Liu continues her triumphant march toward a promising showing for what could be her second Olympic appearance − and she vows to be better than Skate America, hinting that she will be using her Lady Gaga medley in the future.

‘One good thing about making so many mistakes in a program is that I’m so motivated to not make any more mistakes in my next program,’ she said. ‘I’m excited to be able to showcase more.’

Madison Chock, Evan Bates cruise toward tying history

It was practically decided before Sunday, but the decorated American duo of Madison Chock and Evan Bates cemented another accolade with a dominant first-place finish in the ice dance, cementing a big day for the Americans. 

The pair, now in their second season as a married duo, stormed out of the gates in the rhythm dance on Saturday, delivering a rocking Lenny Kravitz medley that was executed to a tee. They earned a 84.77, more than seven points than second place, a comfortable margin to be heading into the free dance with.

A clean skate would be more than enough to ensure another first place finish, and there were no mistakes when Chock and Bates performed their intense paso doble in the free dance to remind everyone why they are the class of the ice dance. Chock took on the spirit of a matador, using her skirt as a cape while Bates matched the energy. 

It earned them a score of 127.81, the second straight day they registered the best score of the event. In the final standings, Chock and Bates had 212.58 points, more than 15 points than second place finishers Marjorie Lajoie and Zachary Lagha of Canada. 

With the win, Chock and Bates have won Skate America for the fifth time, tying the ice dance record in the event set by Tanith Belbin and Benjamin Agosto. It’s also their third time winning Skate America in the past four years.

It’s been a year full of winning for the duo, just having won the Cup of China three weeks ago. The first win of the 2025-26 season came after they won the world championship for the third-straight year. They now head to the Grand Prix finals, where they will try to win the event for another three-peat.

The Skate America champions are positioning themselves well for a return to the Olympics, which can be official at the U.S. championships in January, an event they have won for the past four years. 

A trip to the 2026 Winter Games would be their fourth appearance, with the hope of winning a medal in ice dance for the first time in their career.

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Josh Naylor is expected to remain with the Seattle Mariners after the team’s successful run in 2025.

Naylor is finalizing a five-year deal for an undisclosed amount, according to multiple reports. ESPN’s Jeff Passan was the first to report the news.

The Mariners have not yet confirmed the deal, which is pending a physical.

Seattle made Naylor a top priority during the offseason. The first baseman had 160 hits, 20 home runs, 92 RBIs, 81 run scored and 30 stolen bases this past season. He hit three home runs and had a 1.273 OPS (on-base plus slugging) in the American League Championship Series.

Naylor was traded to Seattle by the Arizona Diamondbacks for Brandyn Garcia and minor leaguer Ashton Izzi. Prior to being dealt to the Mariners ahead of the July 31 trade deadline, Naylor hit .292 with 11 home runs and 11 steals for Arizona.

Naylor made his Major League debut with the San Diego Padres in 2019 but was traded to Cleveland prior to the 2020 trade deadline. He played 4½ seasons with the Guardians and was named to the 2024 American League All-Star team. Cleveland then traded him to Arizona in December 2024.

Ramsey claimed the punch was a reaction to Chase spitting on him, an allegation Chase denied.
The incident occurred during a timeout, with an official witnessing the punch and immediately throwing a flag.
Despite Ramsey’s ejection, the Steelers went on to defeat the Bengals 34-12.

Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Jalen Ramsey was ejected Sunday for throwing a punch at Cincinnati Bengals wideout Ja’Marr Chase.

The two stars jawed during a timeout when Ramsey decided to wind up and deliver the blow with a staffer standing beside the two. An official was also in the vicinity, saw the entire incident and immediately threw a flag.

By the end of the confrontation, Chase had lost his helmet and was looking for more action. But the two had been separated by that point and shortly after the referee’s announcement, Ramsey was escorted to the locker room.

Ramsey later told reporters in the locker room following the 34-12 victory that Chase had spit on him and prompted the violent response.

‘He spit on me. So, it sucked,’ Ramsey said. ‘I don’t give a (expletive) about football after that, respectively.’

Chase denied the claim.

‘I ain’t never opened my mouth to that guy,’ Chase said.

The league will investigate Ramsey’s claims that Chase spit on him, according to a person with knowledge of the situation. The person was granted anonymity to speak freely. The NFL could take further disciplinary action against either player.

Chase said Ramsey didn’t appreciate the swear words Chase directed at Ramsey. He reiterated that he didn’t spit on Ramsey.

‘We (were) going back and forth the whole time,’ Chase told reporters. ‘So I’m sure something got under his skin.’

Philadelphia Eagles defensive lineman Jalen Carter was ejected for spitting at Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott during the season opener. He was not suspended for an additional game but fined a $57,222, the equivalent of a full game check.

The good news for the Steelers was that they led 20-9 when Ramsey was ejected. The potentially bad news is that quarterback Aaron Rodgers left with a hand injury he suffered in the second quarter. Mason Rudolph stepped in for the remainder of the game for Pittsburgh.

In the teams’ previous matchup this season, Chase lit up the Steelers’ secondary for 16 catches, 161 receiving yards and a touchdown. The Steelers held Chase in check in the rematch, as the 2024 All-Pro finished with three catches (10 targets) and 30 yards.