Arch Manning will be back with Texas for the 2026 campaign, his father, Cooper, confirmed to ESPN...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/184393" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/184393">Arch Manning</a> will be back with Texas for the 2026 campaign, his father, Cooper, confirmed to <a href="https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/47320594/texas-qb-arch-manning-return-school-2026-season">ESPN's Dave Wilson</a>.</p><p>Manning was eligible to declare for the 2026 NFL Draft, though officials from the school told ESPN that they expected the quarterback to return.</p><p>Manning entered this past season with pundits projecting him to be the likely No. 1 overall pick in 2026. However, his first full-time crack at taking the reins of the Longhorns' offense produced mixed results.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>He put up a 3-2 record over his first five starts with 11 touchdowns to five interceptions, but upped his play down the stretch. He went 6-1 over his last seven starts with 13 touchdowns to only two picks.</p><p>He also added eight rushing scores over the 2025 season. </p><p>The Longhorns went 9-3 this season, falling short of their 13 wins from 2024 when they won twice in the College Football Playoff before losing to Ohio State in the semifinal.</p>

AUSTIN, TX - NOVEMBER 28: Quarterback Arch Manning #16 of the Texas Longhorns warms up before the SEC football game between Texas Longhorns and Texas A&M Aggies on November 28, 2025, at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, TX.

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Arch Manning will return to Texas for 2026 season

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes underwent successful surgery on a torn ACL in his ...

<p>Kansas City Chiefs quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/89514" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/89514">Patrick Mahomes</a> underwent successful surgery on a torn ACL in his left knee Monday, the team announced.</p><p>Mahomes will begin rehabbing immediately. </p><p>The Chiefs quarterback tore his ACL in the closing minutes of Sunday's 16-13 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers. Mahomes vowed that he would return "stronger than ever" in a message posted on his social media Sunday night.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Mahomes also had a torn LCL repaired, sources told <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/2000766566082740282?s=20">NFL Network's Ian Rapoport</a>. Chiefs head coach Reid had said earlier Monday that Mahomes avoided major damage to his other ligaments.</p><p>No clarity has been provided on if Mahomes is expected to be ready for the start of the 2026 season. But Reid said he assumes his star passer will have a "fairly quick recovery," according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/47315847/chiefs-reid-mahomes-avoided-major-damage-other-ligaments">ESPN's Nate Taylor</a>.</p><p>Mahomes' injury was finishing blow to a disappointing Chiefs campaign. Sunday's loss sent the team to 6-8 and eliminated Kansas City from postseason contention. This marked the first time since 2014 that the franchise, which has appeared in the last three Super Bowls, would not be in the playoffs.</p><p>A three-time Super Bowl champion, Mahomes took Kansas City to the AFC Championship Game each season since he took over the starting job in 2018.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/94300" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/94300">Gardner Minshew</a> will finish out the season under center for the Chiefs. </p>

KANSAS CITY, MO - DECEMBER 14: Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) looks to pass in the third quarter of an NFL game between the Los Angeles Chargers and Kansas City Chiefs on December 14, 2025 at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, MO.

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Report: Mahomes has LCL repaired along with ACL

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Davante Adams' hamstring injury is considered a week-to-week issue...

<p>Los Angeles Rams wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/57482" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/57482">Davante Adams</a>' hamstring injury is considered a week-to-week issue, sources told <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/2000722564444799056?s=20">NFL Network's Ian Rapoport</a>.</p><p>The injury is an aggravation of a previous ailment he was nursing, Rapoport adds. Adams is expected to miss Thursday night's matchup against the Seattle Seahawks.</p><p>Adams re-injured himself during the fourth quarter of Sunday's 41-34 victory over the Detroit Lions. The veteran pulled up limp after running a vertical route downfield.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Head coach Sean McVay said postgame that the injury didn't look good but he wasn't ready to rule out Adams for Thursday night's contest. </p><p>The upcoming prime-time matchup carries massive stakes for the NFC West and the No. 1 seed in the conference. Both the Rams and Seahawks enter at 11-3, tied for the best record in the NFC.</p><p>Adams has played a huge role in the Rams' passing attack, especially in the red zone. He's put up 789 receiving yards and a league-leading 14 touchdowns. </p>

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 2: Davante Adams #17 of the Los Angeles Rams gets set during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints at SoFi Stadium on November 02, 2025 in Inglewood, California.

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Report: Rams' Adams week-to-week with hamstring injury

The Green Bay Packers believe pass-rusher Micah Parsons suffered a torn ACL in Sunday's 34-26 def...

<p>The Green Bay Packers believe pass-rusher Micah Parsons suffered a torn ACL in Sunday's 34-26 defeat to the Denver Broncos, a source told <a href="https://x.com/ProFootballTalk/status/2000362953548186046?s=20">Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk</a>.</p><p>Parsons will have an MRI to confirm the injury.</p><p>The Packers edge rusher suffered a noncontact injury during the third quarter as he was attempting to pressure Broncos quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199735" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199735">Bo Nix</a>. He went down and immediately grabbed his left knee. He was helped to the locker room after being assessed on the field by team trainers. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Another significant-looking injury today: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Packers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Packers</a> pass-rusher Micah Parsons just went down with a non-contact knee injury.<br><br>Grabbed for his left knee immediately. <a href="https://t.co/U7LkGXMRS2">pic.twitter.com/U7LkGXMRS2</a></p>— Arye Pulli (@AryePulliNFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/AryePulliNFL/status/2000352384359502003?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Parsons entered Sunday's contest with 12.5 sacks, 26 quarterback hits, and one forced fumble. </p><p>Green Bay acquired the four-time Pro Bowler in a blockbuster trade with the Dallas Cowboys in August. The Packers parted with defensive tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/75148" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/75148">Kenny Clark</a> and their 2026 and 2027 first-round picks in the deal. They also signed Parsons to a four-year, $188-million contract.</p><p>Parsons was a major reason why the Packers' defense entered Sunday allowing only 19 points per game, good for sixth in the league.</p>

DENVER, COLORADO - DECEMBER 14: Micah Parsons #1 of the Green Bay Packers is attended to by medical staff during the fourth quarter against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field At Mile High on December 14, 2025 in Denver, Colorado.

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Report: Parsons feared to have suffered torn ACL

Joe Burrow remains optimistic about the Cincinnati Bengals despite Sunday's 24-0 loss to the Balt...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97638" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97638">Joe Burrow</a> remains optimistic about the Cincinnati Bengals despite Sunday's 24-0 loss to the Baltimore Ravens, which cemented the team's third straight season without a postseason appearance.</p><p>"I've got a lot of confidence in the organization," the star quarterback said postgame, according to <a href="https://x.com/FOX19Joe/status/2000312848665477176?s=20">Joe Danneman of Fox 19 Cincinnati</a>. "Players need to play better, and it starts with me."</p><p>Burrow, who threw no touchdowns and two interceptions in the outing, caused a stir Wednesday when discussing his mindset moving forward. He mentioned needing to "have fun" if he wants to keep playing, which drew questions about his future.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>However, Burrow clarified Sunday that his remarks weren't related to the organization.</p><p>"My comments had nothing to do with Cincinnati," Burrow said, according to <a href="https://x.com/char_cliff/status/2000312980987339009?s=20">Charlie Clifford of NBC 5 Cincinnati</a>. "My comments had everything to do with me and my mindset and football."</p><p>He added that he didn't believe his mindset affected his play versus the Ravens.</p><p>"Bad football teams do losing things," Burrow said, according to <a href="https://x.com/JamesRapien/status/2000313232410456448?s=20">James Rapien of Bengals Talk</a>. "If you're wanting to complete for championships and be in the playoffs, then No. 1, your quarterback has to play better than I did today."</p><p>He <a href="https://x.com/JamesRapien/status/2000313525277950010?s=20">continued</a>: "There's not a team in the NFL that would've won today if I was their quarterback."</p><p>The loss moved the Bengals to 4-10, putting them on pace for their worst season since 2020.</p>

CINCINNATI, OHIO - DECEMBER 14: Joe Burrow #9 of the Cincinnati Bengals throws a pass during the third quarter against the Baltimore Ravens at Paycor Stadium on December 14, 2025 in Cincinnati, Ohio.

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Burrow: 'A lot of confidence' in Bengals despite missing playoffs

Indiana continued placing itself at the center of the college football universe Saturday, with qu...

<p>Indiana continued placing itself at the center of the college football universe Saturday, with quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/171730" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/171730">Fernando Mendoza</a> winning the Heisman Trophy as the top player in the country.</p><p>Mendoza is the first player in Indiana's history to take home college football's top honor. He beat out Vanderbilt passer Diego Pavia, Ohio State signal-caller Julian Sayin, and Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th> 1st-place votes</th>
<th> Total points</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Fernando Mendoza</td>
<td> 643</td>
<td> 2362</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Diego Pavia</td>
<td> 189</td>
<td> 1435</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jeremiyah Love</td>
<td> 46</td>
<td> 719</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Julian Sayin</td>
<td> 8</td>
<td> 432</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The Cal transfer immediately made an impact in his first season with the Hoosiers, throwing for 14 touchdowns in his first four games at his new program. He would finish with 33 on the season to lead the country, throwing for 2,980 yards and completing over 71% of his passes.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>However, Mendoza's candidacy was built on much more than stats - as the redshirt-junior passer rose to the occasion in the biggest moments on Indiana's magical run. He delivered in the clutch time and again all season, especially when the pressure was highest. Mendoza shone in comeback wins over Iowa, Penn State and Ohio State - with his game-winning touchdown pass against the Nittany Lions arguably the play of the year.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">OMAR COOPER UNREAL CATCH FOR THE TD 😱🤯<br><br>WHAT A GAME. WHAT A CATCH. <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianaFootball?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndianaFootball</a> <a href="https://t.co/PhHzKjuVB9">pic.twitter.com/PhHzKjuVB9</a></p>— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) <a href="https://twitter.com/CFBONFOX/status/1987256102262874620?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 8, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Mendoza had the good fortune of joining the juggernaut Curt Cignetti had built in just one year at Indiana, however, he was clearly the upgrade at quarterback needed to get the Hoosiers on the same level as the elite programs in the country.</p><p>The Heisman is the latest honor in his breakout season, as Mendoza already claimed the Davey O'Brien Award as the nation's top quarterback and the Maxwell Award as the country's best player, and was named the Associated Press' Player of the Year.</p><p>"I want every kid out there who feels overlooked, underestimated to know I was you," Mendoza <a href="https://x.com/SCNext/status/2000012469314441220?s=20">said</a> after receiving the Heisman Trophy. "I was that kid, too. I was in your shoes. The truth is you don't need the most stars, hype or rankings. You just need discipline, heart, and people who believe in you. And you need to believe in your own abilities. I hope this moment shows you that chasing your dreams are worth it, no matter how big or impossible they seem."</p><p>Runner-up Pavia, who was the first Heisman finalist in Vanderbilt history, completed 71.2% of his passes this season for 3192 yards and 27 touchdowns to eight interceptions. He also added nine scores on the ground, giving him a total of 36 touchdowns. More importantly, the Commodores won 10 games with Pavia under center this season, the most in the school's history.</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - DECEMBER 13: Heisman Trophy candidate quarterback Fernando Mendoza of the Indiana Hoosiers poses with the Heisman Memorial Trophy before the 2025 Heisman Trophy Presentation at Marriott Marquis Hotel on December 13, 2025 in New York City.

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Fernando Mendoza wins 2025 Heisman Trophy

Defensive coordinator Jim Knowles is negotiating a buyout with Penn State and is likely to land a...

<p>Defensive coordinator Jim Knowles is negotiating a buyout with Penn State and is likely to land at Tennessee in the same role, sources told <a href="https://x.com/PeteThamel/status/1998847320381891009?s=20">ESPN's Pete Thamel</a>.</p><p>However, no deal has been finalized yet, Thamel adds.</p><p>The Nittany Lions will owe Knowles over $7 million for the two years left on his contract, per Thamel.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Tennessee parted ways with former defensive coordinator Tim Banks earlier this week after five seasons. The Volunteers allowed 28.8 points per game in 2025, a significant increase from 16.1 in 2024.</p><p>Meanwhile, Penn State is undergoing big changes to its coaching staff. After firing James Franklin in October, the Nittany Lions hired Matt Campbell from Iowa State as their new head coach in December.</p><p>Penn State allowed 21.4 points per game in Knowles' one season with the team. He previously served as Ohio State's defensive boss from 2022-24.</p>

COLUMBUS, OH - NOVEMBER 01: Penn State Nittany Lions defensive coordinator Jim Knowles looks at the scoreboard before the game against the Penn State Nittany Lions and the Ohio State Buckeyes on November 1, 2025, at Ohio Stadium in Columbus, OH.

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Report: DC Knowles expected to leave Penn State for Tennessee 

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have activated veteran receiver Mike Evans off injured reserve, opening ...

<p>The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have activated veteran receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/51141" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/51141">Mike Evans</a> off injured reserve, opening the door for him to return Thursday against the Atlanta Falcons, the team announced.</p><p>In addition to Evans, Tampa Bay also removed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199799" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199799">Jalen McMillan</a> from IR. </p><p>Evans hasn't played since sustaining a broken clavicle in Week 7 against the Detroit Lions. He also missed time earlier this season with a hamstring injury. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Meanwhile, McMillan has not suited up for the Bucs yet this season due to a neck strain that landed him on IR in August.</p><p>Evans and McMillan were both listed as questionable for Thursday's game. </p><p>Head coach Todd Bowles said earlier Wednesday that Evans had shown everything needed in practice to return Thursday, according to <a href="https://x.com/gregauman/status/1998793067969786075?s=20">Greg Auman of Fox Sports</a>.</p><p>Evans, who recorded 11 consecutive seasons of 1,000-plus receiving yards prior to 2025, had 140 yards and a touchdown through four games this season. McMillan put up 461 yards and eight touchdowns during his rookie campaign in 2024.</p><p>Their returns come at a pivotal time with the 7-6 Bucs locked in a battle for the NFC South title with the 7-6 Carolina Panthers.</p>

TAMPA, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 28: Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers looks on during the second half of the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Raymond James Stadium on September 28, 2025 in Tampa, Florida.

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Bucs activate Evans, McMillan off IR

Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Geno Smith is considered unlikely to play Sunday against the Philad...

<p>Las Vegas Raiders quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/13368" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/13368">Geno Smith</a> is considered unlikely to play Sunday against the Philadelphia Eagles due to a shoulder injury, sources told <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/1998832683313688740?s=20">NFL Network's Ian Rapoport</a>.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/173994" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/173994">Kenny Pickett</a> would get the start against his former team if Smith can't suit up. Pickett spent last season with the reigning Super Bowl champions as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/105247" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/105247">Jalen Hurts</a>' backup. He was traded to the Cleveland Browns in the offseason before being sent to the Raiders.</p><p>Smith suffered the injury in last week's loss to the Denver Broncos.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 35-year-old is having a dreadful first season in Las Vegas, throwing for 16 touchdowns and a league-leading 14 interceptions.</p><p>Pickett threw a touchdown and completed 8 of his 11 passing attempts in the game against the Broncos after Smith's exit.</p><p>The 2-11 Raiders take on an Eagles team that has lost three straight games.</p>

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - DECEMBER 7: Geno Smith #7 of the Las Vegas Raiders drops back to pass during the first quarter of an NFL football game against the Denver Broncos at Allegiant Stadium on December 07, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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Report: Raiders' Smith likely out vs. Eagles; Pickett in line to start

Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni dismissed the idea of benching quarterback Jalen Hur...

<p>Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni dismissed the idea of benching quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/105247" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/105247">Jalen Hurts</a> down the road.</p><p>"No, I think that's ridiculous," Sirianni said Wednesday on 94 WIP, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/47266056/eagles-sirianni-hurts-absolutely-start-qb-vs-raiders">ESPN's Tim McManus</a>. "I know every time I go out on that field with Jalen Hurts as our quarterback, we have a chance to win the game. That's something that's been proven. We've won a lot of football games."</p><p>He added: "This is the most ultimate team game. You win together as a team, you lose together as a team. It's never just one thing."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Hurts is coming off the first four-interception performance of his career, while the Eagles' offense continues to struggle to score points. Philadelphia has now lost three straight and has been held to 21 points or less in five consecutive contests.</p><p>Despite the issues, Sirianni said he's confident there are signs that a breakthrough could occur.</p><p>"I know we can continue to get better. There was a lot of good things on offense on Monday night," Sirianni said. "It was really good defense, it was really good special teams, and there were a lot of good things on offense.</p><p>"I come away encouraged from that game, knowing that we have things to clean up. ... No one is pressing, everyone is just thinking, how do we get ourselves in the best position to win this game and play our best game this game?"</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188345" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188345">Tanner McKee</a> serves as Hurts' backup. He made his first NFL start in Week 18 last season, throwing for two touchdowns to zero interceptions in a win over the New York Giants.</p><p>Hurts, the reigning Super Bowl MVP, has completed just 64.7% of his passes this year, his lowest mark since 2021. He's also recorded 19 passing touchdowns and six interceptions, plus eight rushing scores.</p><p>The 8-5 Eagles will look to end their skid against the 2-11 Las Vegas Raiders at home on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET.</p>

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - DECEMBER 8: Jalen Hurts #1 of the Philadelphia Eagles warms up prior to the game against the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium on December 8, 2025 in Inglewood, California.

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Sirianni: Benching Hurts a 'ridiculous' idea

Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark came to the ACC's defense, describing Notre Dame athletic direc...

<p>Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark came to the ACC's defense, describing Notre Dame athletic director Pete Bevacqua's comments and behavior toward the conference as "egregious."</p><p>Bevacqua <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3422337" href="https://thescore.com/news/3422337">criticized</a> the ACC earlier this week after Notre Dame was snubbed in favor of Miami for the College Football Playoff, saying the conference caused "permanent damage" to its relationship with the Fighting Irish and accusing it of "taking shots" at the program.</p><p>Notre Dame is independent in college football, but the school's other 24 sports are members of the ACC. Yormark called Bevacqua's response "totally out of bounds" and referenced the school's 10-game ACC schedule during the COVID season in 2020 as proof of the conference's past support.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I think Pete's, his behavior has been egregious," Yormark said Tuesday. "It's been egregious going after (ACC commissioner) Jim Phillips, when they saved Notre Dame during COVID."</p><p>CFP chair Hunter Yurachek explained Sunday that BYU's loss in the Big 12 title game led the committee to put Miami ahead of Notre Dame based on its Week 1 head-to-head win over the Fighting Irish.</p><p>"BYU lost," Yormark said. "(Notre Dame and Miami) became closer together, head-to-head made a difference in that decision."</p><p>Notre Dame opted out of playing in a bowl game after being left out of the CFP. The Fighting Irish appeared inside the 12-team playoff in every CFP rankings this season except the final one.</p>

ARLINGTON, TX - DECEMBER 06: Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark on the field during the Edward Jones Big 12 Championship game between the Texas Tech Red Raiders and BYU Cougars on December 6, 2025, at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

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Big 12 commish: Notre Dame AD's behavior 'egregious'

Max Verstappen didn't walk away from this season as a five-time world champion, but he left with ...

<p>Max Verstappen didn't walk away from this season as a five-time world champion, but he left with an even bigger legacy, his mystique reaching a height only a few have ever hit before.</p><p>Although he fell two points shy of reversing a historic 104-point deficit and extending his four-year title run, Verstappen's relentless comeback attempt sent a wave of anxiety through the McLaren base. CEO Zak Brown gave a glimpse into the team's unease, likening the Dutch driver to a horror-movie character who wouldn't go away.</p><p>In 2025, Verstappen became Formula 1's boogeyman.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>And he had no issue embracing the persona, calling himself "Chucky."</p><p>McLaren, appearing to be plagued by paranoia, was constantly looking over its shoulder, chasing every suspicion of Verstappen's presence. Like viewers watching a scary movie, fans could only yell at their screens as the protagonist walked into traps. As Verstappen closed in, McLaren's mistakes piled up, culminating in the outfit throwing away valuable points in Las Vegas and Qatar.</p><p>All of this pushed Verstappen into a form the paddock hadn't seen since 2023 - only this time, he was the hunter instead of the hunted. He shrank a seemingly insurmountable 104-point deficit after Zandvoort to just 12 entering Abu Dhabi. When the checkered flag waved Sunday, Verstappen was two points short of a fifth world title.</p><p>It doesn't feel as if Verstappen lost the championship because he wasn't good enough. He just ran out of time.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="2025 Drivers' Championship" aria-label="Line chart" id="datawrapper-chart-JGede" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/JGede/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="709" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Despite Verstappen driving a sometimes temperamental RB21, no driver had more wins (eight), poles (eight), or laps led (454) than he did. While McLaren managed to lead three races from start to finish - whether through one driver's dominance or a shared effort - Verstappen accomplished the feat four times on his own. This isn't an argument over whether the 28-year-old deserves to be champion over his rivals. That's not how it works. The driver with the most points earns the title. But there's no question Verstappen would have made a worthy champ had it gone his way.</p><p>The improbability of Verstappen's comeback risks getting lost among the final point tally. Only months earlier, speculation swirled regarding Mercedes courting him for a 2026 move. Meanwhile, Red Bull had parted with the only team principal it had ever known, Christian Horner, and replaced him with Laurent Mekies. Verstappen also entered the summer break saying he didn't think he'd win again after a disastrous weekend in Hungary.</p><p>For most of the season, the hope of a title challenge didn't exist in anyone's imagination except McLaren's. The team warned the world that the boogeyman could return. Who knows if the outfit actually believed it?</p><p>Though McLaren's fears proved correct, it could do little to stop Verstappen, who scored 10 straight podiums after the summer break and won six races.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Since the summer break" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-QdO9M" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/QdO9M/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="263" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>A fifth championship would've sealed a legendary campaign, but what the 71-time race winner added to his legacy this year ultimately didn't need the confirmation of a trophy. After making record-breaking dominance look easy in the past, Verstappen turned a papaya juggernaut into a pumpkin. Maybe it's time to stop regarding the Red Bull driver as only a world champion. Of the now 35 titleholders in F1 history, only a few could have done what Verstappen did this season.</p>

Red Bull Racing's Dutch driver Max Verstappen reacts after taking the pole position at the end of the qualifying session ahead of the Abu Dhabi Formula One Grand Prix at the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi on December 6, 2025.

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Verstappen's legacy grows, even without 5th title

Lando Norris didn't secure his first world championship by dominating the field or with a flashy ...

<p>Lando Norris didn't secure his first world championship by dominating the field or with a flashy performance. Instead, he finished third in Sunday's race to clinch, winning the title in the way he knows best - through resiliency.</p><p>And Norris made sure to prove the critics, and perhaps even himself, wrong along the way, too.</p><p>No driver has arguably faced more negative labels than Norris. Though narratives can sometimes stubbornly persist, Norris - once mocked for his inability to handle pressure - reclaimed control of a story that culminated in a drivers' championship.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>For most of the season, it appeared the title would go to Norris' McLaren teammate. Ultimately, he prevailed because he handled adversity better than Oscar Piastri, who had been lauded earlier this year for his composure and ice-cold demeanor.</p><p>However, Norris was the one who finished with fewer wounds in a 24-race war of attrition, as the British driver avoided what the other contenders couldn't. While Piastri's season unraveled after Baku and Max Verstappen succumbed to frustration in Barcelona, Norris maintained his poise and dodged similar downfalls.</p><p>Yet, throughout the season, Norris faced situations that could've reinforced the same old narratives about his inability to deliver.</p><p>Despite a brilliantly controlled victory in the season opener in Melbourne, Norris struggled to adapt to the MCL39 in the early portions of the campaign. Costly mistakes in Shanghai, Jeddah, and Montreal left him 22 points back in the drivers' championship following the Canadian Grand Prix. Just as the past labels threatened to define him, Norris refused to stay down.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Into the wall and out of the race! 😱<br><br>Lando Norris apologised for this collision with his teammate Oscar Piastri <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/F1?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#F1</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CanadianGP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CanadianGP</a> <a href="https://t.co/4FiNVm1hiI">pic.twitter.com/4FiNVm1hiI</a></p>— Formula 1 (@F1) <a href="https://twitter.com/F1/status/1934365297592676631?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 15, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>A mechanical retirement in the Netherlands – no fault of his own – left Norris 34 points adrift of Piastri. The result seemed to be the dagger in his title dreams. Just five races later, though, he was back at the front of the drivers' championship standings. And even when Norris appeared to have the title essentially wrapped up after Las Vegas, a disqualification caused by McLaren put him back in Verstappen's grasp.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">It was an agonising end to Lando's race <br><br>Here's his reaction 💬<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/F1?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#F1</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DutchGP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DutchGP</a> <a href="https://t.co/lC0U8if7lY">pic.twitter.com/lC0U8if7lY</a></p>— Formula 1 (@F1) <a href="https://twitter.com/F1/status/1962179850082423247?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 31, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Norris ultimately survived being hunted by Verstappen, with the clock running out on the four-time champion's comeback.</p><p>It might feel wrong that Verstappen, the driver with the most wins and poles, wasn't crowned world champion. The Red Bull driver deserves full credit for his unprecedented late-season charge, but what he did shouldn't take away from the significance of Norris' triumph. After all, Verstappen played a major part in Norris' growth. </p><p>Like any compelling protagonist, Norris' championship arc began with disappointment. Midway through 2024, he was thrust into the role of title contender, largely because the sport yearned to see Verstappen and Red Bull finally toppled. Inserted into a title fight that few, Norris included, anticipated, he faced instant expectations to deliver at the level of a polished Verstappen.</p><p>He fell flat on his face. </p><p>Norris' defeat in 2024, when he was thoroughly outclassed by the veteran Verstappen, led to a pivotal shift in his mindset and preparation. Known for being overly harsh on himself, Norris explained how rewiring his approach to difficult days turned him into a better driver.</p><p>"I'm not always more positive, but I'm more positive and less negative about when I have bad days and bad sessions, and I believe in myself a bit more that I can turn it around," Norris said at the Las Vegas Grand Prix. "There've been a lot of races this year when I'm like, I get post-qualifying even, and I'm a bit lost. Especially at the beginning of the year, just off the pace, don't have an answer, don't have a clear, 'OK, tomorrow I need to do this, and I'll be fine.'</p><p>"But then I turn it around, and I turn it around either into qualifying from practice, or I turn it around on Sunday. I've done that a good amount of times, where I got to a point where even if I have a bad weekend now, I'm like, 'Well, I've done it before against all the best drivers. I've been off, and I turned it around come the time it matters.' That's a very reassuring feeling that I need."</p><p>The evidence of that new mindset was apparent. Although Norris still produced peaks - like the stunning pole laps in Monaco and Austria or the dominant win in Mexico - it was the unexpected wins that set his season apart. In Hungary, Norris turned a poor start into victory by switching strategies. In Brazil, he finished first in every session, while the rest of the grid was getting tangled with each other.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Lando Norris stormed to his sixth pole of the season at Interlagos 💪<br><br>Ride onboard with the McLaren driver as he masters the dips, twists and turns of this iconic track 🇧🇷<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/F1?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#F1</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BrazilGP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BrazilGP</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/pirellisport?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@pirellisport</a> <a href="https://t.co/nOha0oClng">pic.twitter.com/nOha0oClng</a></p>— Formula 1 (@F1) <a href="https://twitter.com/F1/status/1987270654048280892?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 8, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Modern F1 often promotes the fallacy that there's only one way to win a championship. The dominant eras of Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton have partially fuelled that belief. But it's easy to forget the patience and growth that even the best drivers need. Hamilton fell short at his first shot as a rookie and claimed his first title in a dramatic last-lap overtake. Verstappen honed his craft for years, learning the value of consistency before taking the fight to Mercedes - and even then, his maiden championship came under a cloud of controversy.</p><p>Norris may not have dominated like Verstappen and Hamilton typically did, but without the points lost to circumstances beyond his control in the Netherlands and Las Vegas, the drivers' championship might have been decided well before Abu Dhabi. Aside from those setbacks, Norris delivered a remarkable campaign, becoming the second driver ever to reach 18-plus podiums in a season. Not too shabby.</p><p>For the first time in a long time, a driver shattered all the narratives applied to him, proving that it's never too late to make your own story. But for as much pain as those past failures caused, Norris isn't where he is now without them. That version of himself in 2024 doesn't win this title fight. And the Norris of 2025 doesn't do it without all the shortcomings molding him into a finished product worthy of being called a world champion.</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33652806/related

Resilient Norris proved everyone wrong with first championship

NFL Playoff Picture is a weekly look at the teams jockeying to secure their shot to make it to Su...

<p><em>NFL Playoff Picture is a weekly look at the teams jockeying to secure their shot to make it to Super Bowl LX.</em></p><h3>AFC</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Seed</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Division</th>
<th>Record</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td> Broncos</td>
<td> West</td>
<td> 11-2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td> Patriots</td>
<td> East</td>
<td> 11-2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td> Jaguars</td>
<td> South</td>
<td> 9-4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td> Steelers</td>
<td> North</td>
<td> 7-6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td> Bills</td>
<td> East</td>
<td> 9-4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td> Chargers</td>
<td> West</td>
<td> 8-4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td> Texans</td>
<td> South</td>
<td> 8-5</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The Denver Broncos moved back into first place in the AFC thanks to a win over the Las Vegas Raiders and their tiebreaker over the New England Patriots, who are on a bye week. The Pittsburgh Steelers reclaimed control of the AFC North with road victory over the Baltimore Ravens.</p><p>After starting 3-5, the Houston Texans have reeled off five straight wins, putting themselves in a wild-card spot.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>In the hunt</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Rank</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Division</th>
<th>Record</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td>Colts</td>
<td>South</td>
<td>8-5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td> Ravens</td>
<td> North</td>
<td> 6-7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10</td>
<td> Chiefs</td>
<td> West</td>
<td> 6-7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>11</td>
<td> Dolphins</td>
<td> East</td>
<td> 6-7</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The Indianapolis Colts have lost three in a row, knocking them out of a playoff spot. It'll be a tough path back in considering the reported loss of Daniel Jones to a torn Achilles. The Kansas City Chiefs are still marginally alive in the wild-card picture but for the first time since 2015, they cannot win the AFC West.</p><h3>NFC</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Seed</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Division</th>
<th>Record</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td> Rams</td>
<td> West</td>
<td> 10-3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td> Packers</td>
<td> North</td>
<td> 9-3-1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td> Eagles</td>
<td> East</td>
<td> 8-4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td> Buccaneers</td>
<td> South</td>
<td> 7-6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td> Seahawks</td>
<td> West</td>
<td> 10-3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td> 49ers</td>
<td> West</td>
<td> 9-4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td> Bears</td>
<td> North</td>
<td> 9-4</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>What a difference a week can make. The Chicago Bears entered Sunday atop the NFC but by the time the dust had settled, they were the seventh seed after dropping a crucial matchup against the Green Bay Packers. Green Bay jumps up to the second seed in the conference with the win.</p><p>The Bears' loss also helped the Los Angeles Rams take over the the top spot in the NFC, which would give them a first-round bye if the playoffs started today.</p><h3>In the hunt</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Seed</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Division</th>
<th>Record</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td> Lions</td>
<td> North</td>
<td> 8-5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td> Panthers</td>
<td> South</td>
<td> 7-6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10</td>
<td> Cowboys</td>
<td> East</td>
<td> 6-6-1</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The Detroit Lions keep knocking on the door of the postseason, defeating the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday. The Carolina Panthers enjoyed a bye and return next week against the New Orleans Saints.</p><h3>Projected NFL draft order</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Pick</th>
<th>Team</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td> Giants</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td> Raiders</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td> Titans</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td> Browns</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td> Saints</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td> Commanders</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td> Jets</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td> Cardinals</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td> Rams (via Falcons)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10</td>
<td> Bengals</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The Tennessee Titans and New Orleans Saints were both victorious Sunday, which means they no longer own the Nos. 1 and 2 overall picks in next year's draft. The New York Giants are now projected to pick first and the Las Vegas Raiders would be the next team on the clock.</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33650179/related

NFL Playoff Picture: Postseason seeds, projected draft order

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones will undergo surgery on a torn Achilles suffered in S...

<p>Indianapolis Colts quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97984" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97984">Daniel Jones</a> will undergo surgery on a torn Achilles suffered in Sunday's 36-19 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars, <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/1997838230520201561">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a> reports.</p><p>Jones went to the ground on a noncontact play following a pass attempt toward the end of the first quarter. He immediately grabbed at the back of his right ankle. He then slammed his helmet into the ground as the Colts' medical staff assessed him.</p><p>Head coach Shane Steichen feared the worst postgame, telling reporters the initial prognosis on Jones' injury could be season-ending.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Jones was already playing through a fibula fracture in his left leg prior to the Achilles injury. </p><p>The former first-round pick was thriving in his first season with the Colts. He started the season with an 8-2 record before dropping his last three starts, including the loss to Jacksonville. He had completed a career-high 67.9% of his passes entering Sunday with 19 touchdowns to seven interceptions.</p><p><a href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/210166">Riley Leonard</a> is the only healthy quarterback on the Colts' roster. He finished Sunday's game with 18 completions on 29 attempts for 145 yards and an interception. A sixth-round pick in 2025, Leonard had thrown only two NFL pass attempts before Sunday.</p><p>Indianapolis also has quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/93784" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/93784">Brett Rypien</a> on its practice squad.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188125" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188125">Anthony Richardson</a> would have been Jones' backup, but he remains on injured reserve due to a fractured orbital bone. It's unknown if Richardson will be cleared to return this season.</p><p>The Colts are 8-5 and trail the 9-4 Jaguars in the AFC South.</p>

JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA - DECEMBER 07: Daniel Jones #17 of the Indianapolis Colts walks off the field after an injury against the Jacksonville Jaguars during the first quarter at EverBank Stadium on December 07, 2025 in Jacksonville, Florida.

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Report: Colts' Jones to have surgery on torn Achilles

For the first time since 2010, Formula 1 will have a season finale where at least three drivers s...

<p>For the first time since 2010, Formula 1 will have a season finale where at least three drivers still have a chance to win the championship. </p><p>While momentum is on Max Verstappen's side, Lando Norris enters with a healthy 12-point advantage over the Red Bull driver while Oscar Piastri faces a 16-point deficit to his McLaren teammate. Norris also enjoys a minor advantage that ensures he'll win the title in the unlikely scenario he finishes tied with another contender in both points and wins. That's due to Norris having more second-place finishes than Verstappen and Piastri.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Driver</th>
<th>Points</th>
<th>Wins</th>
<th>2nd-place finishes</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Lando Norris</td>
<td> 408</td>
<td> 7</td>
<td> 8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Max Verstappen</td>
<td> 396</td>
<td> 7</td>
<td> 5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Oscar Piastri</td>
<td> 392</td>
<td> 7</td>
<td> 4</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Below are all the scenarios for Abu Dhabi that would see either Norris, Verstappen, or Piastri crowned world champion.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>Here's how Norris becomes champion in Abu Dhabi:</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Norris</th>
<th>Verstappen</th>
<th>Piastri</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1st</td>
<td> Doesn't matter</td>
<td> Doesn't matter</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2nd</td>
<td> Doesn't matter</td>
<td> Doesn't matter</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3rd</td>
<td> Doesn't matter</td>
<td> Doesn't matter</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4th</td>
<td> Not 1st</td>
<td> Doesn't matter</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5th</td>
<td> Not 1st</td>
<td> Doesn't matter</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6th</td>
<td> Not 1st</td>
<td> Not 1st</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7th</td>
<td> Not 1st</td>
<td> Not 1st</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8th</td>
<td> 3rd or worse</td>
<td> Not 1st</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9th</td>
<td> 4th or worse</td>
<td> Not 1st</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10th</td>
<td> 4th or worse</td>
<td> 3rd or worse</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Out of the points</td>
<td> 4th or worse</td>
<td> 3rd or worse</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>Here's how Verstappen retains his championship in Abu Dhabi:</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Verstappen</th>
<th>Norris</th>
<th>Piastri</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1st</td>
<td> 4th or worse</td>
<td> Doesn't matter</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2nd</td>
<td> 8th or worse</td>
<td> Not 1st</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3rd</td>
<td> 9th or worse</td>
<td> Not 1st</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>Here's how Piastri becomes champion in Abu Dhabi:</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Piastri</th>
<th>Norris</th>
<th>Verstappen</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1st</td>
<td> 6th or worse</td>
<td> Doesn't matter</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2nd</td>
<td> 10th or worse</td>
<td> 4th or worse</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The championship will be decided next weekend, with the Abu Dhabi GP schedule to begin Sunday, Dec. 7 at 8 a.m. ET.</p>

Pole position qualifier Red Bull's Dutch driver Max Verstappen C, second-placed McLaren's British driver Lando Norris L and third-placed McLaren's Australian driver Oscar Piastri pose after the qualifying session of the Formula 1 Italian Grand Prix at Monza Circuit, near Milan, Italy, on Sept. 6, 2025.

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Abu Dhabi cheat sheet: How Norris, Verstappen, Piastri can win title

The Cleveland Browns are planning to have injured quarterback Deshaun Watson on the roster in 202...

<p>The Cleveland Browns are planning to have injured quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/84667" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/84667">Deshaun Watson</a> on the roster in 2026, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/47222329/sources-browns-expect-deshaun-watson-2026-roster">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>.</p><p>Watson returned to practice Wednesday for the first time since a torn Achilles ended his 2024 season last October. The veteran then tore his Achilles tendon again last January.</p><p>However, Watson is unlikely to play this season despite the Browns opening a 21-day window to activate him to the roster, Schefter adds.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Watson's contract is one of the reasons he's expected to be back next year, Schefter notes. The quarterback would carry a dead-money hit of nearly $135 million if Cleveland releases him before June 1. Designating him as a post-June 1 cut would reduce the figure to $53 million.</p><p>The Browns sent a haul that included three first-round picks to the Houston Texans to acquire Watson in 2022, then signed him to a fully guaranteed $230-million contract. The move has been a major disaster for the franchise, as Watson has played only 19 games since the trade. Over that time, he's compiled a 9-10 record with a 61.2 completion percentage, 19 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions.</p><p>Cleveland opened the 2025 campaign with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/2945" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/2945">Joe Flacco</a> as its starting quarterback before trading him to the Cincinnati Bengals. The Flacco deal allowed the franchise to get a look at rookie passers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/209984" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/209984">Dillon Gabriel</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/210099" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/210099">Shedeur Sanders</a>, who's getting his third start Sunday.</p>

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - NOVEMBER 23: Deshaun Watson #4 of the Cleveland Browns walks off the field after a game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium on November 23, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Browns defeated the Raiders 24-10.

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Report: Browns plan to keep Watson in 2026

The Pittsburgh Steelers will have to decide whether to activate the option on Mike Tomlin's contr...

<p>The Pittsburgh Steelers will have to decide whether to activate the option on Mike Tomlin's contract for 2027 by March 1, 2026, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/47222043/sources-steelers-decide-mike-tomlin-option-march">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>. </p><p>Tomlin has two years remaining on his contract after this season, though 2026 could be the last year on his deal if the Steelers elect to decline his option. </p><p>The longtime Steelers coach is not expected to be fired, though there will be meetings and a review that takes place after the season, Schefter adds. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Tomlin's contract also includes a no-trade clause, Schefter notes.</p><p>Speculation about Tomlin's job security came to the forefront after fans at Acrisure Stadium chanted for him to be fired during last Sunday's 26-7 loss to the Buffalo Bills. Tomlin said postgame that he understands the frustration of the fans. </p><p>The loss dropped the Steelers to 6-6 on the season.</p><p>The NFL's longest-tenured head coach, Tomlin has never had a losing season since taking the Steelers job in 2007. However, the former Super Bowl winner has not led Pittsburgh to a playoff victory since the 2016 season.</p>

PITTSBURGH, PA - NOVEMBER 30: Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin looks on before kickoff against the Buffalo Bills during an NFL football game at Acrisure Stadium on November 30, 2025 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

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Report: Steelers have Tomlin option decision in March

The Green Bay Packers activated wide receiver Jayden Reed off injured reserve, the team announced...

<p>The Green Bay Packers activated wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188198" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188198">Jayden Reed</a> off injured reserve, the team announced Saturday.</p><p>Reed, who was recovering from a broken collarbone, is expected to play Sunday against the Chicago Bears. He last played in Week 2.</p><p>The 25-year-old suffered the injury after coming down hard on his shoulder in a Thursday Night Football victory over the Washington Commanders. Reed was also dealing with a foot fracture to start the season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Reed recorded three catches for 45 yards and one touchdown prior to the injury.</p><p>The Packers have struggled to get production from their receiving corps this campaign. Romeo Doubs leads the team in receiving but has put up only 542 yards.</p><p>Green Bay holds an 8-3-1 record, while Chicago is 9-3, setting the stage for a pivotal NFC North matchup.</p>

GREEN BAY, WI - SEPTEMBER 11: Jayden Reed #11 of the Green Bay Packers looks on from the sideline during the national anthem prior to an NFL football game against the Washington Commanders during at Lambeau Field on September 11, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

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Packers' Reed activated off IR

Dallas Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer plans to speak with George Pickens about his now-delete...

<p>Dallas Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer plans to speak <span style="margin:0px; padding:0px; text-align:left">with <a href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174055" target="_blank">George Pickens</a> about his now-deleted social media post addressing</span> criticism from former NFL cornerback Richard Sherman.</p><p>"I understand it's been taken down, but I will be talking to him, just checking on him," Schottenheimer said Friday, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/47216324/cowboys-coach-talk-pickens-sherman-post">ESPN's Todd Archer</a>. "Again, this is, unfortunately, things that we deal with in this profession. But I have not spoken to him, but I will."</p><p>Sherman, an analyst for Prime Video's Thursday Night Football coverage, <a href="https://x.com/theScore/status/1996948177618940133?s=20">said</a> Pickens looked "uninterested in playing football" during the Cowboys' recent loss to the Detroit Lions. Sherman added, "You can't be the guy, and you half-ass it."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Pickens <a href="https://x.com/clarencehilljr/status/1997043469211107397">responded</a> by telling Sherman not to speak about him "unless you know the game of football." He also said the former Seattle Seahawks cornerback owed his success to the franchise's iconic "Legion of Boom" secondary in the 2010s.</p><p>Pickens has already set career highs in receptions (78), receiving yards (1,179), and touchdowns (eight) despite only playing 13 games this campaign. However, he recorded only 37 receiving yards on Thursday, his fewest since Week 1.</p>

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - DECEMBER 4: George Pickens #3 of the Dallas Cowboys stretches prior to an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on December 04, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan.

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Cowboys' Schottenheimer to talk to Pickens about deleted post

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Daniel Valente

News Editor

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