Heisman Trophy sleepers: Five unlikely contenders for college football's top award

Heisman Trophy sleepers: Five unlikely contenders for college football's top award

Two out of the past fiveHeisman Trophywinners did not play quarterback, but smart money remains on a quarterback reclaiming the award this season. Quarterbacks won the Heisman in nine of the 10 years throughout the 2010s. The Heisman favorite wears one of football's most famous surnames on the back of his jersey. Texas quarterbackArch Manningenjoys 6-to-1 odds from BetMGM. LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier (8½-to-1), Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik (9-to-1), Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith (10-to-1) and Penn State quarterback Drew Allar (14-to-1) complete the top five of oddsmaker front-runners. Give me a three-pack of Heisman picks, and I'd take Manning, Smith and Nussmeier. Behind the front-runners are a few more quarterbacks and another wide receiver that stand out as Heisman sleepers. How do I define a sleeper? Their odds are worse than 15-to-1. Full disclosure: I am a Heisman voter. I do not wager on the award. Here are my top Heisman sleepers for the 2025 season: BetMGM odds:25-to-1 Beck headlined the shortlist of Heisman front-runners last summer. Since then, he threw twice as many interceptions (12) in 2024 as he did the previous season, then he transferred to a worse program, he had his expensive cars stolen, and he split with his model girlfriend. Ouch! Never mind all that. He still can make throws most other quarterbacks can't, and he should find ACC defenses to his liking. Cam Ward finished fourth for the Heisman after transferring to Miami before last season. Beck injured his elbow in December. He resumed throwing recently. If healthy, he retains Heisman-level talent. EXPERIENCE MATTERS:Familiar faces top Big Ten QB rankings TIME TO SHINE:Arch Manning headlines SEC QB rankings BetMGM odds:18-to-1 Few quarterbacks outclassed Sellers by the end of last season. Ask Missouri about Sellers' passing ability. Ask Clemson about his running ability. Dual-threat quarterbacks make for good Heisman contenders, and Sellers fits that billing. He's an efficient passer, but he must reduce his turnovers after a redshirt freshman season filled with fumbles. A neat story helps a Heisman campaign. How's this? Sellers signed with South Carolina as a three-star recruit who played in goggles. (He later switched to contacts.) His Heisman hopes will depend on the Gamecocks rekindling their 2024 success, when they reached the playoff's doorstep. BetMGM odds:18-to-1 Coach Ryan Day churns out successful quarterbacks. Sayin, a former blue-chip recruit, is next in line. If Sayin outperforms Manning in a season-opening clash of top teams at "The Horseshoe," his Heisman stock will soar. Here's your buy-low opportunity. Sayin should benefit from throwing to one of the nation's best wide receiving corps. He might encounter Heisman competition from his teammate, Smith, but a big season for Smith probably also means a big season for Sayin. He played sparingly in 2024, but he's got the arm to be a star. Sayin exudes upside, with a great supporting cast around him. BetMGM odds:25-to-1 Oklahoma needed a quarterback to lead a revival after theSooners' dismal first season in the SEC. Insert Mateer, who starred at Washington State, like Ward before him. Mateer's offensive coordinator, Ben Arbuckle, preceded him to Oklahoma, so there's no need for Mateer to learn a new system. Now, he just needs to prove himself in the SEC. He's a dual threat with a bundle of playmaking skills. Oklahoma's brutal schedule – it's perhaps the nation's toughest – will create a platform for Mateer to sink or shine. BetMGM odds:35-to-1 How's this for a Heisman narrative: Williams, at 18 years old, would be the youngest player to win the award. He introduced himself on the scene with a 177-yard receiving game against Georgia. He'll need to find more consistency as a sophomore to emerge as a contender. Alabama will have a new starting quarterback, and it's unclear whether that will help or hamper the pass game. Williams' Heisman hurdles include proving himself as the nation's best receiver within a landscape that includes Smith from Ohio State. Williams enjoys an advantage in playing for Alabama, which has produced four Heisman winners since 2009. Blake Toppmeyeris the USA TODAY Network's national college football columnist. Email him atBToppmeyer@gannett.comand follow him on X@btoppmeyer. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY:Heisman Trophy sleepers for college football's top award

byLiam Oneel

in

July 02, 2025

Heisman Trophy sleepers: Five unlikely contenders for college football's top award

Heisman Trophy sleepers: Five unlikely contenders for college football's top award Two out of the past fiveHeisman Trophywinners did not...

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Clayton Kershaw's first strikeout victim still in awe as Dodgers ace hits 3,000 Ks

Clayton Kershaw's first strikeout victim still in awe as Dodgers ace hits 3,000 Ks

There was actually laughter in theSt. Louis Cardinalsclubhouse that morning at Dodger Stadium before facing theLos Angeles Dodgers. The Cardinals didn't have any tape of the 20-year-old kid who was going to make his major-league debut that afternoon,May 25, 2008. No one had any scouting reports. No one faced him in the minors. So, they began asking each other if anyone knew anything about the Dodgers' prized prospect. "Someone said they heard that he could be the next Rick Ankiel," Schumaker tells USA TODAY Sports. "No way. There is no way his stuff could be as good as Rick Ankiel's before he became a position player. So we are laughing that someone thought he could have a curveball as good as Ankiel's." Schumaker was leading off for the Cardinals and stepped to the plate with a game plan. "I figured I was going to ambush him and welcome him to the big leagues," Schumaker says. "The first pitch was an elevated fastball. It was harder and faster than I thought, and I swung and missed. Then he threw a curveball. It was something different. It was like nothing I had ever seen before. "And then, well, I struck out." Now, 17 years and one month later – 6,247 days to be exact – that strikeout is immortalized in baseball history. It was Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw's first career strikeout, making Schumaker his first victim. Kershaw since has produced 2,996 more strikeouts in his future Hall of Fame career, and with three more strikeouts on Wednesday night against the Chicago White Sox at Dodger Stadium, he can become only the 20th pitcher in baseball history to strike out 3,000 in his career. Kershaw, 37, the 10-time All-Star, three-time Cy Young winner, two-time World Series champion and MVP, will be only the fourth left-hander in baseball history to achieve 3,000 strikeouts, joining Hall of Famers Steve Carlton, Randy Johnson and CC Sabathia. Most important to Kershaw, he'll be only the third to produce 3,000 strikeouts wearing just one uniform, accomplished only by Walter Johnson and Bob Gibson. "Clayton Kershaw," Schumaker says, "is the most dominant pitcher I've ever played against in my career. I've never seen anybody like him. "If anybody deserves a statue outside Dodger Stadium it's Clayton Kershaw. How cool is it for him to have just one uniform, especially in LA, and then have a statue of him in front of that stadium? "It's unbelievable what he's meant to that organization, and really, what he's meant for baseball." Schumaker, a career .278 hitter who hit .300 or better three consecutive seasons and never struck out more than 69 times in a season, faced Kershaw six more times in his career, including twice more that afternoon. He finished 0-for-7 off Kershaw. And struck out six times. "The only time I even made contact off him," Schumaker says, "I grounded into a double play. How's that?" So, does Kershaw ever bring up to Schumaker that he was his first strikeout victim? "Oh, only every time I see him," laughs Schumaker, now a senior advisor with the Texas Rangers. "He remembers. And how could I ever forget? "You don't know at the time, it being his first start, but he just has that special unique look, and with the combination of his stuff, it's just so different. I knew he had a chance to be special, but I didn't know it was going to be 3,000 strikeouts, three Cy Young awards and 16 years in the big leagues special." Schumaker, who was traded to the Dodgers before the 2013 season, fully grasped Kershaw's greatness in their first game together on Opening Day against the San Francisco Giants. Kershaw threw a four-hit,complete-game shutout. "I remember just looking at each other on the bench," Schumaker says, "What the hell are we watching here? What is this?' He's this dominant on Opening Day? What's the rest of the season going to look like?" Kershaw went 16-9 with a 1.83 ERA that season, pitching a career-high 236 innings with an NL-best 232 strikeouts, winning his second Cy Young award. "Just to see him work, and know what kind of person he is," Schumaker says, "that's what makes this so special. He's the ultimate teammate. He's the ultimate competitor. And he's the ultimate person." Kershaw, who won the Roberto Clemente Award for his charitable work in 2012, is revered throughout baseball for his generosity, autographing baseballs, jerseys, or whatever is needed for charities, schools and programs. When Schumaker was trying to help a group of kids from being discouraged during the 2020 COVID summer that cancelled their travel ball season, Kershaw spent an hour on a Zoom call with Schumaker and 15 kids. "It was one of the most special moments that these kids will always treasure," Schumaker says. "That's why he's so easy to root for. I can't wait to watch him get his 3,000th." Kershaw will be the first pitcher to achieve 3,000 strikeouts sinceMax Scherzer in 2021. The next closest to 3,000 strikeout is 36-year-old Chris Sale with 2,528 strikeouts. "I think it's cool man," says San Francisco Giants 42-year-old starter Justin Verlander, the three-time Cy Young winner, who leads all active pitchers with 3,471 strikeouts and 262 victories. "I think the game should celebrate stuff like that and people lile him because it's clearly going away. There are very few of us left. So any time you get a moment to celebrate something like that, you don't know if you'll ever see it again. "I'm looking forward to seeing it, and I'll surely reach out and congratulate him." Schumaker, who competed against Kershaw for eight seasons during his career, played with him during the 2013 season, and even managed against him for two seasons while with the Miami Marlins, isn't about to miss Kershaw's start either. He plans on plopping down on his couch Wednesday night at home with his 17-year-old son, Brody, who has Kershaw's autographed jersey hanging in his room, watching history. "It's just crazy to see him keep doing this," Schumaker says. "You didn't know if he would even come back after a couple of surgeries. He comes back, and even though he's throwing 89-91 [mph] now instead of 97, he's still beating guys inside with his fastball, and pitches with so much intent and conviction." Kershaw, who didn't start pitching this season for the Dodgers until May 17 after undergoing knee and toe surgeries during the off-season, is 4-0 with a 3.03 ERA, striking out 29 batters in 38 ⅔ innings. Who knows how much longer he'll pitch, or how long his body holds out – but the way he's going, why stop now? "It's cool to have moments like these that shake you up a little bit," Verlander says. "Getting to that number kind of puts things in perspective. But the great ones don't rest on their laurels. They keep working hard, put their nose to the grindstone, and want to keep being great. "That's Kershaw." 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. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY:Clayton Kershaw strikeouts: First-ever victim on ace's run to 3,000

byLiam Oneel

in

July 02, 2025

Clayton Kershaw's first strikeout victim still in awe as Dodgers ace hits 3,000 Ks

Clayton Kershaw's first strikeout victim still in awe as Dodgers ace hits 3,000 Ks There was actually laughter in theSt. Louis Cardinals...

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Kylie and Kendall Jenner Just Made the Perfect ‘Love Island’ Parody and We're Obsessed

Kylie and Kendall Jenner Just Made the Perfect 'Love Island' Parody and We're Obsessed

Kylie and Kendall Jenner Just Made the Perfect 'Love Island' Parody and We're Obsessedoriginally appeared onParade. The Jenner sisters just delivered the crossover content we never knew we needed.KylieandKendall Jennertransformed their friend group intoLove Islandcontestants in a TikTok recreation so spot-on, it has fans demanding a full season. The 27-year-old beauty mogul posted the hilarious video Tuesday, featuring herself, 29-year-old Kendall, longtime friendStassie Karanikolaou, andVictoria Villarroelin a perfectly choreographed villa drama. The quartet nailed everyLove Islandtrope, from strategic "chats" to whispered villa gossip. The masterpiece begins with Kylie and Kendall sharing wine when Stassie delivers the iconic interruption: "Hey, Kylie. Do you mind if I pull you for a chat?" The 28-year-old friend channels classicLove Islandenergy while "stealing" Kylie for private conversation. Meanwhile, Kendall and Victoria immediately dive into speculation mode, whispering dramatic observations that mirror the show's signature commentary style. Their concerned exchanges about potential romantic triangles capture the villa's perpetual tension perfectly. The sisters demonstrate impressive understanding ofLove Islanddynamics, with Kylie explaining her "coupling" situation while expressing openness to "exploring other connections." Kendall's strategic positioning as the potential new interest adds authentic villa drama. Stassie's response showcases the competitive spirit that drivesLove Islandrelationships, declaring her own willingness to explore options. The back-and-forth negotiations feel authentically lifted from Peacock's hit dating series. Related: Kylie Jenner and Stormi Channel 'La Dolce Vita' Vibes in Picture-Perfect Venice Arrival The video cleverly incorporates Kylie Cosmetics product placement, with Stassie applying the new peach mango lip butter. Victoria's request to borrow some, declaring "This kiss is about to be delicious," adds perfect comedic timing while seamlessly promoting the brand. Love Island USAitself commented on the recreation, expressing investment in this alternative villa drama. The official response validates the sisters' accurate portrayal of the show's addictive format. 🎬SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox🎬 Kylie's caption "some people play mermaids we playlove island(episode 1)" suggests potential future episodes, leaving fans hoping for extended villa content. The reference to "episode 1" implies this group thoroughly understands reality TV's serialized storytelling. This collaboration highlightsthe Kardashians' continued mastery of viral content creation while showcasing their genuine friendship dynamics. Their ability to parody popular culture while maintaining authentic entertainment value demonstrates why they remain social media powerhouses. Kylie and Kendall Jenner Just Made the Perfect 'Love Island' Parody and We're Obsessedfirst appeared on Parade on Jul 2, 2025 This story was originally reported byParadeon Jul 2, 2025, where it first appeared.

byLiam Oneel

in

July 02, 2025

Kylie and Kendall Jenner Just Made the Perfect ‘Love Island’ Parody and We're Obsessed

Kylie and Kendall Jenner Just Made the Perfect 'Love Island' Parody and We're Obsessed Kylie and Kendall Jenner Just Made the Pe...

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Cynthia Erivo Has a Surprising Sisqó Song on Her List of Favorites: 'You Can't Tell Me That's Not a Great Vocal'

Cynthia Erivo Has a Surprising Sisqó Song on Her List of Favorites: 'You Can't Tell Me That's Not a Great Vocal'

Entertainment Weekly/Youtube Cynthia Erivo named Sisqó's "Thong Song" as one of her favorite vocal performances of all time She also cited Beyoncé, Whitney Houston, Jazmine Sullivan, and more as inspiration Erivo already holds an Emmy, a Grammy, and a Tony for her vocal performances Cynthia Erivois revealing a surprisingSisqósong as one of her all-time favorite vocal performances. In an interview withEntertainment Weekly, Erivo, 38, named Sisqó's "Thong Song" as one of her favorites and cited the R&B singer's impressive vocals on such an unexpected track. "Why do you need to sing like this when singing about a thong? The whole end section, the whole end section of this song is so unnecessary," Erivo said. TheWickedstar loves the sonic drama of the track, in spite of its lyrical simplicity. "You have a key change, there's a praise break at some point in this. With his voice it's ridiculous, you don't need to sing like that. And he does, he's just enjoying himself and the voice is doing what it's meant to be doing." Never miss a story — sign up forPEOPLE's free daily newsletterto stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. After singing along and complimenting Sisqó's voice throughout, the Tony winner said, "You can't tell me that that's not a good vocal because it is a good vocal. That's a brilliant vocal for a song about a thong. He just keeps going, 'I don't think you heard me.' We did, we heard you. I just love how he uses his voice for something that you wouldn't expect a voice to be used for." Prince Williams/WireImage The PEOPLE Appis now available in the Apple App Store! Download it now for the most binge-worthy celeb content, exclusive video clips, astrology updates and more! She complimented the rest of the singer's discography as well. "Now are there other performances of Sisqó's that merit this? Probably, but I just was like this is the one that didn't need him to do that and yet he did. Hats off to you Sisqó," Erivo added. Among her other favorite vocal performances wereWhitney Houston's rendition of the 1935 classic from the musicalPorgy and Bess"I Loves You Porgy,"Jazmine Sullivan's childhood performance of "Home" fromThe Wiz, Jennifer Holiday's "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going,"Aretha Franklin's "Dr. Feel Good,"Luther Vandross's "A House Is Not A Home," andBeyoncé's"Resentment." Erivo, a powerhouse vocalist herself, already holds an Emmy a Grammy, and a Tony, all for her vocal performances inThe Color Purple.She was also nominated for Best Actress at the2025 Oscarsfor her role in the musical adaptation ofWicked, and will reprise her lead role as Elphaba Thropp inWicked: For Good,which will be released in theaters on Nov. 21, 2025. Read the original article onPeople

byLiam Oneel

in

July 02, 2025

Cynthia Erivo Has a Surprising Sisqó Song on Her List of Favorites: 'You Can't Tell Me That's Not a Great Vocal'

Cynthia Erivo Has a Surprising Sisqó Song on Her List of Favorites: 'You Can't Tell Me That's Not a Great Vocal' Entertainme...

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Stadium where Babe Ruth played in Tokyo is at the center a disputed park redevelopment plan

Stadium where Babe Ruth played in Tokyo is at the center a disputed park redevelopment plan

TOKYO (AP) — Plans to demolish a historic baseball stadium where Babe Ruth played and an adjacent rugby venue are at the heart of a disputed park redevelopment in Tokyo that critics say trades history and greenery for commercial space. The plan to remake the Jingu Gaien park area was approved 2 1/2 years ago by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. Work clearing land has begun but opponents are still trying to stop the project, which could take a decade to complete. A coalition on Wednesday presented an open letter to Toshiko Abe, the minister of education, culture, sports, science and technology, asking the project be reassessed. It's signed by 368 experts — urban planners, architects and environmental scientists — and 1,167 others. Ode to an emperor The park area was established a century ago through public donations to honor the Meiji Emperor. At the heart of the issue is citizens' control of public space, and a potential conflict of interest with private developers and politicians deciding how valuable parcels are used. The stadium oozes history and critics saybuilding skyscrapersin the park space would never be allowed in Central Park in New York or Hyde Park in London. Ruth and Lou Gehrig played at the stadium on a 1934 barnstorming tour. Japanese novelist Haruki Murakami was inspired to write his first novel while drinking beer and watching a game there in 1978. The stadium is still home to the Yakult Swallows baseball team and hosted a concert this week. Lofty plans in place Plans call for developers to build a pair of 200-meter (650-feet) towers and a smaller tower. The stadiums are to be rebuilt in the reconfigured space with the baseball stadium going where the rugby stadium now stands. The open letter is critical of so-called private finance schemes that give private developers access to park space. Hibiya Park is Tokyo's oldest public park, another example of this approach. Opposition to the Jingu redevelopment hasincluded novelist Murakami, a conservancy group, and botanists and environmentalists who argue the sprawling project threatens100-year-old gingko treesthat grace the area's main avenue. Aglobal conservancy bodyICOMOS, which works with the United Nations body UNESCO, has said the development will lead to "irreversible destruction of cultural heritage" with trees and green space being lost. Strong lobby for the development Opposition groups are pitted against powerful real-estate developer Mitsui Fudosan, the Shinto religious body, and Tokyo Gov. Yuriko Koike. "The problem is that many Japanese citizens are not so much interested in democratically regulating their own city and are used to demolishing buildings," Kohei Saito, a Japanese political economist at Tokyo University, wrote to The Associated Press. He said "companies with political power try to maximize their short-term profits without consideration of Tokyo's attractiveness (history, culture), inhabitants' well-being and future generations." Zoning changes to allow high-rise buildings in the area were made around 2013 by the Tokyo government when the city won the bid for the 2020 Olympics. Many of those changes permitted building the neighboring National Stadium but also applied to the park area. "The process of rezoning the area lacked transparency and democratic procedure and constitutes an illegal abuse of the governor's discretion in urban planning decisions," the open letter said. The Jingu district was considered "common property" until after World War II when the government sold it to Shinto under a promise it would remain a common space. The national government comes into play because therugby venueis the property of the Japan Sport Council, a national government affiliated body. The rugby venue represents about 30% of the Jingu Gaien area. Forthcoming election might help Opponents hope the timing later this month of a national election might aid their cause with Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba heading a minority government. Former Prime Minister Yoshiro Mori has ties to the rugby venue. In addition to serving two decades ago as prime minister, he is the former president of the Japan Rugby Football Union and also served as the president of the 2020 Olympic organizing committee until he wasforced to resignafter making sexist comments about women. Opened in 1926, developers argue the baseball stadium is too old to save. However, Fenway Park in Boston dates from 1912 and Wrigley Field in Chicago from 1914. Both have been refurbished and are among the most venerated in the United States. Meiji Kinenkan, a historic reception hall in Jingu Gaien, dates from 1881 and is still widely used with no calls for its demolition. Mitsui Fudosan's headquarters building in Tokyo dates from 1929. Koshien Stadium, located near Osaka, was built in 1924 and has been in use since a refurbishment. The new rugby stadium would be an indoor venue with plastic grass, which players view as the least desirable surface for the sport. ___ AP sports:https://apnews.com/sports

byLiam Oneel

in

July 02, 2025

Stadium where Babe Ruth played in Tokyo is at the center a disputed park redevelopment plan

Stadium where Babe Ruth played in Tokyo is at the center a disputed park redevelopment plan TOKYO (AP) — Plans to demolish a historic baseba...

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Alex Delvecchio, Hall of Famer and Detroit Red Wings legend, dies at 93

Alex Delvecchio, Hall of Famer and Detroit Red Wings legend, dies at 93

The last surviving star from Detroit's greatest sports dynasty, Alex Delvecchio helped the Red Wings reach the pinnacle in the 1950s, struggled mightily as they hit bottom in the 1970s and segued into an elder statesman with a retired number, a bronze statue and ceremonial roles celebrating the franchise's renaissance in the 1990s. Always popular among fans, players and press, universally heralded as one of the NHL's 100 greatest players but always considered underrated by his peers, and a three-time Lady Byng winner on the ice but a lifelong Lady Byng winner off the ice, Delvecchio died Tuesday, July 1, surrounded by his family at age 93, the team announced. The team issueda statement from Delvecchio's family on Tuesday: "Alex was more than a Hockey icon, he was a devoted husband, loving father, grandfather, great grandfather, cherished friend, and respected teammate to so many. While the world knew him as an incredible hockey player with numerous accomplishments on the ice, we knew him as someone whose humility, strength, competitiveness, kindness and heart were even greater than his professional achievements. For decades, your love and support meant everything to Alex and to all of us. We are deeply grateful and thankful to everyone." Delvecchio's hockey story parallels the nearly 100-year story of the Red Wings franchise. Delvecchio's mentor played in the first game at the Old Red Barn on Grand River and Delvecchio's statue sparkles at the state-of-the-art arena on Woodward. He had ties to the earliest days of Detroit's franchise, when it was owned by a grain and shipping magnate, and he relished its rebirth as Hockeytown, when it was owned by a pizza baron. If not for Gordie Howe, his legendary linemate known as Mr. Hockey, Delvecchio could have been Mr. Red Wing: Only Howe played in Detroit longer than Delvecchio's 24 seasons. Only Steve Yzerman was a captain in Detroit longer than Delvecchio's 12 seasons. Only Nicklas Lidstrom played more games in a career spent with a single NHL franchise than Delvecchio's 1,550. And only Howe had more points in NHL history when Delvecchio retired in 1973. "When you think of the Red Wings, you think of Howe," future Hall of Fame center Phil Esposito told Sport magazine in 1971. "But Alex is the most underrated player in the game today — underrated by everyone but the players." Delvecchio was approaching his 40th birthday at the time. Late in the 1964-65 season, his 15th in the NHL, Delvecchio recorded a point in 17 consecutive games, a Red Wings record until Yzerman broke it 23 years later. "He's like a magician with the puck," goaltender Eddie Giacomin said during a Hall of Fame career. A left-handed shot, Delvecchio played on three Stanley Cup championship teams — all in his first four full seasons, all before he turned 24. As a rookie in 1951-52, when the Wings swept Toronto and Montreal in the playoffs for the Cup, Delvecchio centered the third line. In 1953-54, on a line with Howe and Ted Lindsay, Delvecchio's nine points tied Howe for the Wings' playoff scoring lead. In 1954-55, Delvecchio scored 15 points in 11 playoff games and the first and last goal in the Cup-clinching 3-1 victory over the Canadiens in Game 7. "I felt proud to be among so many players that were true stars of the game," Delvecchio said decades later. After 1955, the Wings wouldn't win another Stanley Cup for 42 years. A dynamic skater, a gifted passer and frequently the center on the second iteration of the Production Line with Howe and Lindsay, Delvecchio also was an ironman in the NHL's Original Six days. He never missed a game from age 25 until nearly 33. During a 12-year stretch, he played in 840 of 842 possible games. In 1956-57, his seventh season, a broken ankle sidelined him for 22 games; he then missed only 14 games the last 17 seasons of his career. "You don't get hurt in this game," he once told Sport magazine, "if you keep your head up and watch what's going on around you." In the 1950s and '60s, players also lived in fear that in a six-team league, with jobs scarce, every injury jeopardized their careers. "You just didn't want anybody to come in," Delvecchio said, "because you're gone if they shine." Unlike his Hall of Fame teammates from the 1950s — when the Wings finished atop the regular-season standings eight of nine years and won four Stanley Cups — Delvecchio wasn't banished in an ill-conceived trade (like Sid Abel in 1952, Terry Sawchuk in 1955, Lindsay in 1957, Red Kelly in 1960 and Marcel Pronovost in 1965) or given a do-nothing front office title (like Howe in 1971). In the early 1970s, Delvecchio turned down a lucrative offer to join Howe and his teenaged sons Mark and Marty with the Houston Aeros in the upstart World Hockey Association. "I'd spent my whole life with the Wings," Delvecchio explained, "and, what the heck, I'd better finish with them." "He was a pure Red Wing, for sure," said Jimmy Devellano, a Hall of Fame executive for the team. "Not only was he a great player, he never went anywhere else, and he managed and coached the team." Delvecchio did think he had been traded on Nov. 7, 1973, a few weeks before his 42nd birthday. A distraught Delvecchio, coming off a stellar 71-point season, planned to retire on the spot. And he did retire that evening — because general manager Ned Harkness asked him to coach the Wings. Delvecchio agreed to take over a 2-9-1 team about to lose its top playmaker, whose skills stood out as much as he did on the ice with his salt-and-pepper hair in an era without helmets. Harkness also cut Delvecchio's $125,000 salary. Delvecchio later would call it "the most terrible job of my career." He coached for parts of four seasons and was the general manager for most of three. A decade known by Wings fans as "Darkness with Harkness" turned even worse under Delvecchio's watch. The U.S.-based franchise with the most Stanley Cups was derided as the Dead Wings. After owner Bruce Norris fired Delvecchio and hired Lindsay in March 1977, Delvecchio was devastated, declared he was "ticked off" and decided "the hell with 'em." That was harsh talk from a respected, classy and even-keeled hockey figure who three times won and three other times nearly won the Lady Byng Trophy for sportsmanship and gentlemanly conduct. The bad blood faded when Little Caesars founder Mike Ilitch purchased the franchise for a pittance from Norris five years later. Delvecchio spent time in the broadcast booth in the 1980s (sometimes subbing for an ailing Abel). His number was retired in the 1990s (in a dual ceremony with Lindsay). His statue was unveiled in the 2000s (two days before Lindsay's). He was included in the festivities after teams captained by Yzerman or Lidstrom won four Stanley Cups (appearing with Howe and Lindsay). Delvecchio appreciated it all. When his No. 10 jersey was hung with Lindsay's No. 7 from the Joe Louis Arena rafters before roaring fans in 1991 — joining Howe's No. 9 retired in 1972 — Delvecchio declared: "I've been inducted into the Hall of Fame, I've won Stanley Cups, but this is better." This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press:Alex Delvecchio, Detroit Red Wings legend, dies at 93

byLiam Oneel

in

July 02, 2025

Alex Delvecchio, Hall of Famer and Detroit Red Wings legend, dies at 93

Alex Delvecchio, Hall of Famer and Detroit Red Wings legend, dies at 93 The last surviving star from Detroit's greatest sports dynasty, ...

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Julia Fox’s Appearance at NYC Event Has Fans Talking

Julia Fox's Appearance at NYC Event Has Fans Talking

Julia Fox's Appearance at NYC Event Has Fans Talkingoriginally appeared onParade. Julia Fox commanded attention as the model-actress stepped out in yet another unconventional look that left fans buzzing online. Known for her eclectic style, the Italian-American stunner was no stranger to making headlines, particularly for her bold fashion choices. For her appearance at the Marc Jacobs Fall 2026 fashion show, which took place at the New York Public Library in Manhattan, she delivered a head-to-toe bold look. Fox shared the highlights of the event on her Instagram, showcasing a closer look at her outfit. Far from her usual daring and sultry looks, she arrived in a light blush balloon-style midi dress, which was part of the designer's Spring 2025 collection. The deep V neckline and large bow at the center added a touch of feminine flair to the whole ensemble. Moreover, Fox, who is Kanye West's ex-girlfriend, styled it with a small Cristina satchel in white and elongated pointed toe heels in rose gold, an unreleased colorway from the Marc Jacobs Spring 2025 collection, according toWWD. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Julia Fox (@juliafox) Lastly, addinganinteresting detail to the outfit was her glam look as her team opted for darker eyes and pale lips for an avant-garde makeup style. The look sparked a wave of reactions from fans, with some fascinated by her eccentric fashion choice. "I'm intrigued by the shoes, can you walk in them?" one asked. "It's giving a corpse bride, I love that," a user said. Another fan echoed the same and added "Corpse Bride" in reference to Tim Burton's popular movie. Fans hyped her fashion show look with some even calling her the "Goth mother." "Heroine chic glam is woww," a commenter said. "Fave haunted doll," a fan added. Besides "The Trainer" star, fashion legendAnna Wintourattended the event. It was her first public appearance since stepping down from Vogue. Related: Kendall Jenner's Venice Getaway Post Draws Sweet Message from Kris Jenner Julia Fox's Appearance at NYC Event Has Fans Talkingfirst appeared on Parade on Jul 2, 2025 This story was originally reported byParadeon Jul 2, 2025, where it first appeared.

byLiam Oneel

in

July 02, 2025

Julia Fox’s Appearance at NYC Event Has Fans Talking

Julia Fox's Appearance at NYC Event Has Fans Talking Julia Fox's Appearance at NYC Event Has Fans Talkingoriginally appeared onParad...

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Kane Brown Shows Off Weight Loss Transformation in ‘Goals’ Beach Photo With Wife

Kane Brown Shows Off Weight Loss Transformation in 'Goals' Beach Photo With Wife

Kane Brown Shows Off Weight Loss Transformation in 'Goals' Beach Photo With Wifeoriginally appeared onParade. Country starKane Brownshowed off his fit figure after a majorweight loss transformationas he enjoyed a sunny vacation with his wifeKatelyn. The "Backseat Driver" singer and his wife shared a photo posing in the ocean, with Brown wearing swim shorts and no shirt, his tattoos on display, while Katelyn stunned in a bold multicolored bikini. 🎬 SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox🎬 Brown's new photo showed off his impressive body transformation just over a month after he initially revealed the health update. Both Brown and Katelyn had on sunglasses to protect themselves from the sun, while the former added a hat. It's unclear exactly where the couple was in the photo, but some hypothesized they were at Crab Island in Florida. View this post on Instagram A post shared by KB ☾ (@katelynbrown) Fans shared appreciation for the photo in the comments, with many complimenting Brown and Katelyn. "The cutest couple! 😍," said one fan, while others wrote, "Looking good Mr & Mrs KB," and "Goals!!!!!!" Many spotlighted Kane's muscles, writing, "Love your body Kane ❤️🔥," and "Jacked💪." Some fans couldn't help but call out Katelyn's toned figure as well, saying, "Okay mamacita with the body ody! 🔥," and "@katelynbrown is stealing the show.. the body is bodyingggggg." Related: Kane Brown Stuns Fans With 'Remarkable' Weight Loss Transformation Kane Brown Shows Off Weight Loss Transformation in 'Goals' Beach Photo With Wifefirst appeared on Parade on Jul 2, 2025 This story was originally reported byParadeon Jul 2, 2025, where it first appeared.

byLiam Oneel

in

July 02, 2025

Kane Brown Shows Off Weight Loss Transformation in ‘Goals’ Beach Photo With Wife

Kane Brown Shows Off Weight Loss Transformation in 'Goals' Beach Photo With Wife Kane Brown Shows Off Weight Loss Transformation in ...

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Diamondbacks ban fan who interfered with apparent would-be Giants HR for rest of season, citing 'multiple offenses'

Diamondbacks ban fan who interfered with apparent would-be Giants HR for rest of season, citing 'multiple offenses'

The Arizona Diamondbacks fanwho was ejected Mondayfor interfering with an apparent would-be San Francisco Giants home run has been banned for the rest of the season. TheDiamondbacks announced the banin a statement Tuesday, citing "multiple offenses" committed by the fan. "The particular fan has been involved in multiple offenses at Chase Field,"the statement reads. "Consequently we have terminated his Advantage Member account and he is prohibited from returning to Chase Field for the remainder of 2025. "This fan will have the opportunity to return to Chase Field in 2026 so long as he meets certain terms and abides by our fan code of conduct." The Diamondbacks did not identify the fan. He identified himself in an interview with Arizona Sports 98.7 FM on Tuesday. We won't publicize his name here, but he has, indeed, committed multiple offenses. His latest was during Monday's Diamondbacks-Giants game. With the Diamondbacks holding a 3-2 lead in the top of the eighth, Giants third baseman Christian Koss hit a deep fly ball to left-center field that appeared to be tracking over the wall for a game-tying solo home run. Instead, said Diamondbacks fan dove across three other fans and on top of the outfield wall to snag the ball with his glove. Umpires initially ruled this an out because of fan interference. After review, they called it a doubleThe fan was ejectedpic.twitter.com/FgAgLDmoaF — Jomboy Media (@JomboyMedia)July 1, 2025 Diamondbacks outfielder Tim Tawa made a play on the ball at the same time. But the ball appeared to be out of his reach and headed over the outfield wall if not for the fan's interference with the ball itself. Umpires initially ruled the play an out for fan interference. Upon review after a Giants challenge, they determined that the fan didn't make contact with Tawa and that Tawa couldn't have caught the ball. That led to the ball being ruled a ground-rule double on the basis that the ball was not tracking to carry over the wall. Instead of a game-tying solo home run or an out, umpires awarded Koss second base. He did not come around to score, and the Diamondbacks went on to a 4-2 win. The fan was ejected from the stadium. It's not clear exactly how many times this fan has interfered with baseball games from his outfield seat at Chase Field. Jomboy Media documented four instances in the past four seasons. This Diamondbacks fan has been involved in an umpire review in FOUR STRAIGHT seasonspic.twitter.com/wMCtKCAIqs — Jomboy Media (@JomboyMedia)July 1, 2025 The fan himself told 98.7 FM on Tuesday that he has caught 24 home run balls in his life and that doing so is "one of my things." His thing for the rest of the season will be watching Diamondbacks games from home.

byLiam Oneel

in

July 01, 2025

Diamondbacks ban fan who interfered with apparent would-be Giants HR for rest of season, citing 'multiple offenses'

Diamondbacks ban fan who interfered with apparent would-be Giants HR for rest of season, citing 'multiple offenses' The Arizona Diam...

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Washington Commanders new stadium: D.C. Mayor Bowser concerned about RFK deal

Washington Commanders new stadium: D.C. Mayor Bowser concerned about RFK deal

While theWashington Commandershope to one day make the RFK Stadium site home again, it's the D.C. Council that is playing games on that famed plot of land. Nothing ever comes easy in politics, especially when the nation's capital is involved. The case involving the Commanders is no different as budget battles and political one-upmanship are on full display – setting up a fight between Washington D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and the D.C. Council, with the team caught in between. On July 1, the mayor appeared onThe Team 980 with Kevin Sheehan, where she was asked about her feelings surrounding the deal, which has not yet been approved. "I'm concerned right now that everybody buckle down and get to work," Bowser said. "I'm not concerned about our deal. Our deal is solid. It pays off for D.C. And at the end of the day, I think everybody wants the same thing." Sheehan pushed Bowser to put her level of concern on a scale of zero to five, with five being the most concerned. "I would put my level of concern – because when you're a big city mayor you're concerned about everything – I'll put it at a four," Bowser said. The Commanders have been targeting a stadium opening date in 2030, allowing them enough time to host some big events in the future – notably games in the 2031 FIFA Women's World Cup. Without approval soon, the team claims those plans will be put in danger, forcing the D.C. area to miss out on those marquee dates. As illustrated in the currentdeal that was announced on April 28, the city would provide $1.1 billion in public funds to help build the stadium on the old RFK site. The Commanders would contribute $2.7 billion in what figures to be a nearly $4 billion project. Washington's team leadership held a dinner on Monday night for councilmembers to discuss the situation, which needs seven votes to approve.According to the Washington Post, there are currently four councilmembers in favor of the deal. There is currently aJuly 15 deadline in place as outlined in the exclusive negotiating window. With public hearings set for July 29 and 30, it appears the council is in no rush to move the legislation forward. More importantly, the council is slated to go on recess from August until mid-September, meaning no deal on the intended date could put the project in danger of falling apart. Fox 5 Washington DCreported on July 1 that Council Chairman Phil Mendelson has heard talks of a potential Plan B from the Commanders, which could include going to PresidentDonald Trumpand members of Congress to make the deal happen in time. This comes on the heels of a decision by Mendelson to separate the stadium deal from the 2026 budget process. ACommanders spokesperson released a statementin response to the news on June 25: TheWashington Commandersare committed to working with the Council around the clock to keep this project on schedule and deliver a world-class stadium for the District by 2030. This is about more than just a stadium: it's an investment in families, local workers, and long-term economic opportunity that will transform this community, District, and the region. Any substantive delays will jeopardize D.C.'s ability to attract premier concerts, global talent, and marquee events—including the 2031 FIFA Women's World Cup. Most importantly, it will slow new jobs at a time when the District needs them the most. We are hopeful the Council will continue to work in an expedited way to approve this deal and deliver a significant win for the people of D.C. Mendelson has indicated there will be no vote while the council is on recess, which could delay the project's fate until September or later. "It would be incredibly extraordinary to call the Council back in August,"Mendelson said, via NBC4 Washington. "I can't think of one time in 50 years of home rule that we have called the Council back." He also would not commit to a vote in early September. "I'm not gonna budge from this, and that is that we are working well with the Commanders and as diligently as possible to try to get to a point where the Council can vote as quickly as possible," Mendelson continued. The Commanders franchise left the RFK Stadium site in 1996 for FedEx Field in Landover, Maryland – where they still currently play home games at what is now known as Northwest Stadium. While there is no indication that the Commanders would leave and relocate to another city like other NFL teams have done when faced with similar issues from local officials, there is always a chance they could opt for another site in the surrounding area. Maryland, where the Commanders currently play, and Virginia have shown interest in a new stadium for the team in the past. For now, the goal remains focused on making the return to RFK a reality. All the NFL news on and off the field.Sign up for USA TODAY's 4th and Monday newsletter. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY:Commanders new stadium: Washington D.C. mayor concerned RFK site deal

byLiam Oneel

in

July 01, 2025

Washington Commanders new stadium: D.C. Mayor Bowser concerned about RFK deal

Washington Commanders new stadium: D.C. Mayor Bowser concerned about RFK deal While theWashington Commandershope to one day make the RFK Sta...

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