After avoiding DFB-Pokal humiliation in the week, Bayern Munich’s attention now switches to a huge Bundesliga game as they travel to RB Leipzig on Saturday evening.
A rotated Bayern outfit didn’t have to break a sweat at Preussen Munster on Tuesday night in their 4-0 victory which saw them progress into the second round of the Pokal. Their comfortable triumph ensured they remained unbeaten in all competitions to start the 2023/24 season.
However, a big test is on the horizon in the form of Marco Rose’s Leipzig, who thumped Bayern in the Supercup just before the season got underway. Leipzig have also enjoyed a stellar start to the season and sit a point adrift of Bayern at the top of the Bundesliga table.
Here’s how Thomas Tuchel could set his Bayern side up for their trip to the Red Bull Arena.
Bayern were in a rampant mood at the weekend / Marcel Engelbrecht – firo sportphoto/GettyImages
GK: Sven Ulreich – After Daniel Peretz was handed his first Bayern start in the week, Ulreich will return to the Bundesliga XI on Saturday while Manuel Neuer remains sidelined.
RB: Konrad Laimer – Tuchel has so far deployed the dependable Austrian at right-back and in the midfield pivot. Laimer’s stability at full-back has been impressive at the start of 2023/24.
CB: Dayot Upamecano – The Frenchman is an injury doubt for Saturday’s clash, but Tuchel is hopeful the Frenchman will be available.
CB: Kim Min-jae – Like Upamecano, Kim could miss the trip to Leipzig, but the South Korean simply has to play even if he isn’t 100% fit. Bayern’s alternatives cease to exist with Matthijs de Ligt picking up a knee injury.
LB: Alphonso Davies – Frans Kratzig might be one to watch moving forward, but Davies remains the undisputed first-choice left-back.
CM: Joshua Kimmich – Kimmich earned a rest in the week and there’s no doubt he’ll come back into the team on Saturday. He’ll have to have his wits about him against an explosive Leipzig side.
CM: Leon Goretzka – Player of the Match in Munster, Goretzka has enjoyed a fine start to the campaign and is re-emerging as a pivotal figure for Bayern.
RM: Leroy Sane – Sane has arguably been Bayern’s best performer at the start of the new season. If Bayern are to secure a big win on the road, the German international will play a huge role.
AM: Jamal Musiala – Thomas Muller’s groin injury should see Musiala start in the number 10 role. Tuchel admitted he has to carefully manage Musiala’s minutes given his recent fitness issues, but the German boss will deploy the superb playmaker from the outset in Saxony.
LM: Kingsley Coman – Tuchel does have a few options down the left flank despite Serge Gnabry’s absence. However, he’ll likely fight fire with fire and utilise the dynamic Coman opposite Sane.
ST: Harry Kane – The Englishman looks to have found his Son Heung-min in Bavaria in the form of Sane, with Kane bagging his maiden Bayern hat-trick against Bochum last weekend. The striker’s a shoo-in after earning a rest in midweek.
The Week 3 NFL schedule for the 2023 season is stacked with great matchups, and we’ve got you covered with what you need to know heading into the weekend. Our NFL Nation reporters bring us the biggest keys to every game and a bold prediction for each matchup.
Additionally, ESPN Stats & Information provides a big stat to know and a betting nugget for each contest, and our Football Power Index (FPI) goes inside the numbers with a game projection. Analytics writer Seth Walder picks out each matchup’s biggest X factor, and fantasy analyst Eric Moody hands out helpful fantasy football intel. Finally, Walder and Moody give us final score picks for every game. Everything you want to know is here in one spot to help you get ready for a loaded weekend of NFL football.
Let’s get into the full Week 3 slate, including an AFC East Patriots-Jets showdown, Justin Herbert vs. Kirk Cousins and a pair of first-round rookie running backs facing off. It all culminates with a doubleheader on “Monday Night Football” — the Eagles visit the Buccaneers (7:15 p.m. ET) on ABC/ESPN+ and the Rams take on the Bengals (8:15 p.m. ET) on ESPN/ESPN2. (Game times are Sunday unless otherwise noted.)
Storyline to watch: Atlanta’s No. 8 overall pick, Bijan Robinson, and the Lions’ No. 12 overall pick, Jahmyr Gibbs, will be in action in the same game on Sunday. Gibbs wants to be the best running back out there but says he has been impressed by Robinson so far. Robinson and Gibbs were the first pair of running backs to go in the top 12 picks of the draft since 2017, when Leonard Fournette and Christian McCaffrey were selected fourth and eighth, respectively. — Eric Woodyard
Bold prediction: With Detroit’s offensive line banged up — Taylor Decker (ankle) and Halapoulivaati Vaitai (left knee) are dealing with injuries — Falcons defensive end Calais Campbell will make personal history, picking up career sack No. 100 in the second quarter. It will be one of three sacks the Falcons have against Detroit, which would double their total for the season. — Michael Rothstein
Stat to know: Robinson has 180 rushing yards (the second most in the NFL) and leads all running backs in receptions (10) this season.
Matchup X factor: Falcons defensive tackle David Onyemata. He has come up huge so far this year with a 22% pass rush win rate at defensive tackle, the fourth best at the position. If he and Grady Jarrett are able to break through the Lions’ offensive line and disrupt quarterback Jared Goff, that would go a long way toward slowing down the explosive Detroit offense. — Walder
Injuries: Falcons | Lions
What to know for fantasy: Goff has one of the highest on-target rates through Week 2. He has produced a quarterback rating of 85 or higher in each of the past nine games and has averaged 19.4 fantasy points per game in that span. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Lions are 24-12 against the spread (ATS) under Dan Campbell, the second-best mark in the NFL in that span (since 2021). He is 3-3 outright and ATS as a favorite. Read more.
Moody’s pick: Lions 31, Falcons 27 Walder’s pick: Lions 30, Falcons 20 FPI prediction: DET, 55.1% (by an average of 1.9 points)
Matchup must-reads: Falcons’ Okudah ready for return to Detroit … Montgomery could miss ‘couple weeks’ … Ridder still striving for improvement after 2-0 start … Lions lose Gardner-Johnson to torn pec; he hopes to be back in 2023
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0:42
Why fantasy mangers should start Jahmyr Gibbs in Week 3
Mike Clay breaks down why Jahmyr Gibbs would be a solid RB1 for fantasy managers in Week 3.
1 p.m. ET | CBS | Spread: BUF -6.5 (43.5)
Storyline to watch: Sunday’s game will come down to who wins the battle outside the pocket: Bills quarterback Josh Allen or Washington’s defense? Washington has allowed 16 dropbacks to be extended outside the pocket — second most in the NFL — but ranks fourth in completion percentage on those plays (33.3%). Meanwhile, Allen has thrown three touchdowns while outside the pocket — tied for first in the NFL — and has thrown for the fifth-most yards (79). — John Keim
Bold prediction: The two teams will combine for at least 10 sacks. The Commanders are tied for the league lead in sacks with 10, but they have also given up 10 sacks (tied for second most). So, the Bills will have an opportunity to increase their sack total from three. — Alaina Getzenberg
Stat to know: The Bills have won eight of nine matchups against the Commanders since losing Super Bowl XXVI following the 1991 season. Seven of those eight wins have been by double digits (their only loss was on road in Week 15 of 2015).
Matchup X factor: Commanders cornerback Kendall Fuller. He’s off to a hot start with just a 9% target rate — best among all corners with at least 50 coverage snaps — and 0.2 yards per coverage snap allowed, per NFL Next Gen Stats. If the Commanders are going to beat the Bills, stopping the Buffalo pass game will be key. — Walder
Injuries: Bills | Commanders
What to know for fantasy: The Commanders have allowed the seventh-most fantasy points per game to wide receivers. Buffalo WR Stefon Diggs has 17 receptions for 242 yards and a touchdown in two games at Washington. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Washington quarterback Sam Howell is 2-0 outright as an underdog in his career. Read more.
Moody’s pick: Bills 27, Commanders 21 Walder’s pick: Bills 33, Commanders 17 FPI prediction: BUF, 73.4% (by an average of 8.8 points)
Matchup must-reads: Bills’ balanced approach could be new blueprint … Commanders relishing starting 2-0 … Young’s splashy return a good sign for Washington’s defense
1 p.m. ET | Fox | Spread: GB -2 (42.5)
Storyline to watch: Jordan Love has settled into the QB1 job, but there’s one thing he hasn’t done yet: Start a game at Lambeau Field. In fact, most of his playing time over the past three seasons has come on the road. Of his 135 career passing attempts, only 11 have been at Lambeau Field. Saints quarterback Derek Carr has one career start at Lambeau in 2019 — he threw for 293 yards and two touchdown passes in a loss as a member of the Raiders. — Rob Demovsky
Bold prediction: The Saints will hold the Packers to less than 100 rushing yards. Green Bay is averaging just 88 rushing yards through two games, and running back Aaron Jones missed last week with a hamstring injury. The Packers could certainly test the Saints’ pass defense, which will be without starting safety Marcus Maye (suspended), but their run defense will be stout again, especially if Jones isn’t 100%. — Katherine Terrell
Stat to know: The Saints have held opponents to 20 or fewer points in a franchise-record 10 straight games. The only team with a longer streak over the past 25 seasons was the Patriots (11 straight in 2018-19).
Matchup X factor: Packers wide receiver Jayden Reed. The rookie has a whopping 38% target rate in two games, which puts him behind Tyreek Hill and Travis Kelce. — Walder
Injuries: Saints | Packers
What to know for fantasy: Love has scored 20 or more fantasy points in consecutive games and leads the league in passer rating (123.2). See Week 3 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Green Bay is 13-4 ATS after a loss under Matt LaFleur. Read more.
Moody’s pick: Packers 28, Saints 21 Walder’s pick: Packers 19, Saints 16 FPI prediction: GB, 53.3% (by an average of 1.2 points)
Matchup must-reads: Williams (hamstring) expected to miss time … Love not ready to make up for Packers’ deficiencies — yet … Saints WR trio making a difference in crunch time
1 p.m. ET | CBS | Spread: MIA -6.5 (48.5)
Storyline to watch: The Dolphins seek their second straight 3-0 start under Mike McDaniel, and they’ve got a great matchup waiting in their home opener. Miami’s NFL-best passing offense (355 yards/game) faces the Broncos’ 21st-ranked pass defense (233 yards/game) — although Miami might be without wide receiver Jaylen Waddle, who entered concussion protocol this week. — Marcel Louis-Jacques
Bold prediction: The Broncos will need patience and some stops by their own defense, but they will have their first 100-yard rusher of the season. Miami’s defense, with former Broncos coach Vic Fangio calling the shots, makes it hard to find the big plays in the passing game. But the Broncos’ three backs — Javonte Williams, Samaje Perine and rookie Jaleel McLaughlin — and even QB Russell Wilson should find some room against a Miami defense that allowed 233 yards rushing to the Chargers in Week 1 and is allowing opposing runners to gain 4.9 yards per carry. — Jeff Legwold
Stat to know: Wilson’s 17 QBR vs. man coverage this season is the second worst in the NFL behind Steelers QB Kenny Pickett. The Dolphins have used man coverage at the third-highest rate in the NFL through the first two weeks of the 2023 season (62% of time).
Matchup X factor: Broncos cornerback Pat Surtain II. He’s off to a nice start this season with just 42 yards allowed over 60 coverage snaps (that 0.7 yards per coverage snap allowed ranks sixth best among corners with at least 50 coverage snaps, per NFL Next Gen Stats). Containing the Dolphins’ wide receivers is a mighty challenge, but Surtain is one corner who might be up for it. — Walder
Injuries: Broncos | Dolphins
What to know for fantasy: Wilson has averaged 280.7 passing yards and 18.5 fantasy points per game against the Dolphins in his career. In two games this season, Wilson has thrown for 485 passing yards, five passing touchdowns and rushed for 57 yards. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Dolphins are 14-5-1 ATS as home favorites since 2017. Read more.
Moody’s pick: Dolphins 35, Broncos 30 Walder’s pick: Dolphins 24, Broncos 20 FPI prediction: MIA, 70% (by an average of 7.4 points)
Matchup must-reads: Payton eyeing ways to fix clock management issues … Tagovailoa, Dolphins’ offense off to scorching start to 2023 season
1 p.m. ET | CBS | Spread: CLE -3.5 (39.5)
Storyline to watch: How will quarterback Deshaun Watson bounce-back following a miserable “Monday Night Football” performance in which he had a 55% completion percentage, was sacked six times and fumbled twice? The Titans’ defense is tied for the eighth-most sacks (7) through two games, which doesn’t bode well for Watson. The defense also won’t have to worry about All-Pro running back Nick Chubb, who is lost for the season with a knee injury. — Jake Trotter
Bold prediction: A late strip sack will lead to a Titans win. The Titans’ defensive line has consistently set its focus on getting to the quarterback and knocking the ball out. Given how Watson has three fumbles in two games, this week will be a prime opportunity for Titans defensive lineman Jeffery Simmons and the defense to generate a late turnover. — Turron Davenport
Stat to know: The Browns have not allowed any red zone touchdowns or field goals. They would be the first team since at least 1978 to not allow any red zone points through three games.
Matchup X factor: The Browns’ surprisingly strong run defense. After ranking 29th in EPA per designed run allowed last season, the defense ranks third in the category after two weeks in 2023. That’s important against a Titans team that is better on the ground than through the air. — Walder
Injuries: Titans | Browns
What to know for fantasy: Running back Kareem Hunt, who signed with the Browns following Chubb’s injury, trailed only Chubb in rushing attempts (442), rushing yards (1,874) and rushing touchdowns (16) during his previous four seasons with the Browns. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Titans are 7-2-1 ATS on the road since the start of last season (7-1-1 ATS last nine). Read more.
Moody’s pick: Titans 20, Browns 17 Walder’s pick: Browns 24, Titans 17 FPI prediction: CLE, 57.1% (by an average of 2.6 points)
Matchup must-reads: Tannehill reasserts himself at Titans’ QB1, leaves bad Week 1 behind … Browns lose Chubb for season after ‘significant’ knee injury … With Chubb out, Browns need Watson to play like $230 million
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1:29
McAfee: Kareem Hunt-Browns reunion makes sense
Pat McAfee and crew react to Kareem Hunt returning to the Browns on a one-year contract.
1 p.m. ET | Fox | Spread: MIN -1 (54)
Storyline to watch: Both teams are 0-2 and on a weird run of losing close games, dating back to the 2022 season. The Chargers have lost the past four games they’ve played, all by three points or less, while the Vikings have lost three consecutive games by one score, after winning 11 consecutive such games. — Kevin Seifert
Bold prediction: Justin Herbert will throw for less than 200 yards. Herbert has thrown for fewer than 200 yards four times in his career, one of which came against the Vikings in 2021. The Vikings have one of the worst run defenses in the NFL, so the Chargers will rely on the ground game. — Kris Rhim
Stat to know: Keenan Allen needs 111 receiving yards to pass Lance Alworth (9,584) for second most in Chargers history.
Matchup X factor: Chargers cornerbacks Asante Samuel Jr., Michael Davis and J.C. Jackson. The trio allows 1.8, 2.7 and 3.0 yards per coverage snap, respectively — and the average for corners this year is 1.4, per NFL Next Gen Stats. They’re going against the Vikings, who have the highest designed pass rate in the league (80%). — Walder
Injuries: Chargers | Vikings
What to know for fantasy: While the Vikings traded for Cam Akers to energize their running game, with Kirk Cousins, Justin Jefferson, T.J. Hockenson and Jordan Addison they will continue to rely heavily on the passing game. This season, the Chargers’ defense has allowed the most yards on deep passes. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Vikings have covered five straight meetings dating back to 2007. Read more.
Moody’s pick: Vikings, 34, Chargers 31 Walder’s pick: Chargers 33, Vikings 28 FPI prediction: LAC, 53.2% (by an average of 1.2 points)
Matchup must-reads: Chargers not ‘turning our back on each other’ after 0-2 start, defensive woes … Jefferson, Cousins and Hunter start hot ahead of contract talks … No timetable for Ekeler’s return, coach says … Vikings still confident in Mattison after Akers deal
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0:29
How many passing yards will Kirk Cousins rack up vs. the Chargers?
Erin Dolan expects Kirk Cousins to have a big performance for the Vikings in their matchup vs. the Chargers.
1 p.m. ET | CBS | Spread: NE -2.5 (36.5)
Storyline to watch: It’s all about the streak (the Patriots have won 14 straight in this series) and two 2021 first-round quarterbacks: Mac Jones and Zach Wilson. Jones has regained his footing after a disappointing 2022, while Wilson, starting for the injured Aaron Rodgers, looks to conquer his New England demons (0-4 against the Patriots). — Rich Cimini
Bold prediction: A special teams play will decide the game. Consider that the Jets have converted on six straight fake punts since 2014 (their most recent coming last week versus Dallas), which is the second-longest streak over that span. And the NFL is still buzzing over Brenden Schooler’s blocked field goal last week, as the Patriots look to block a kick in back-to-back games for the first time since 2017. — Mike Reiss
Stat to know: Jones has thrown 96 passes this season, which leads all quarterbacks through two weeks and is the third most by any player in the team’s first two games in franchise history (Tom Brady: 100 in 2009, Drew Bledsoe: 98 in 1995).
Matchup X factor: Jets left tackle Duane Brown. His 63% pass block win rate ranks worst among all tackles. He simply has to protect better for his quarterback to have a chance. — Walder
Injuries: Patriots | Jets
What to know for fantasy: With an average of 4.8 yards per target, the Patriots’ wide receiver corps ranks 31st in the league. New England’s receivers now face a solid Jets cornerback unit. This has the makings of a low-scoring affair. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Seven of Wilson’s past eight starts have gone under the total. He is 0-4 outright and ATS in his past four starts. Read more.
Moody’s pick: Patriots 14, Jets 13 Walder’s pick: Patriots 20, Jets 14 FPI prediction: NYJ, 54.7% (by an average of 1.7 points)
Matchup must-reads: Inside Patriots’ thrilling FG block that’s ‘going to change the game’ … Jets’ slow-starting offensive line vows better protection for Wilson
1 p.m. ET | Fox | Spread: JAX -9 (44.5)
Storyline to watch: The Texans’ offensive line is ravaged by injuries, which could make things rough for rookie QB C.J. Stroud. He hasn’t thrown an interception but has already been sacked 11 times in two games. The Jaguars’ defense has forced six turnovers and sacked opposing quarterbacks six times in two games. That would seem to be a recipe for the Jaguars to win back-to-back games in the series for the first time since 2017. — Michael DiRocco
Bold prediction: Expect the Texans to force at least two turnovers, with multiple sacks, and pull off the upset. Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence is 1-3 against the Texans and has thrown three touchdown passes and six interceptions. According to NFL Next Gen Stats, the Texans rank fifth in the league in pressure rate (44%). When Lawrence is pressured, he completes just 44% of his passes with a rating of 29. — DJ Bien-Aime
Stat to know: Stroud has 91 pass attempts without an interception. He is only 44 attempts shy of reaching the top five longest streaks to begin a career (Dak Prescott 176, Tom Brady 162, Kyle Allen 159, Tua Tagovailoa 153 and Carson Wentz/Desmond Ridder 134).
Matchup X factor: Texans running back Dameon Pierce. He has 69 rushing yards in two weeks of action and now is facing the Jaguars, who have the best EPA per designed run allowed in the league. Stroud could surely use a little more support from the ground game. — Walder
Injuries: Texans | Jaguars
What to know for fantasy: Stroud has amassed 626 passing yards in his first two career starts. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Jaguars are 0-7 ATS in their past seven games as home favorites (1-6 outright). Read more.
Moody’s pick: Jaguars 27, Texans 17 Walder’s pick: Texans 23, Jaguars 21 FPI prediction: JAX, 71.2% (by an average of 7.9 points)
Matchup must-reads: Loss overshadows Stroud’s historic day for Texans … Struggling offense should concern Jaguars … Texans lose CB Stingley Jr. to hamstring injury
1 p.m. ET | CBS | Spread: BAL -8 (45)
Storyline to watch: Lamar Jackson vs. Colts pass rush. Indianapolis ranks second in the AFC with eight sacks, including six last Sunday against the Texans. Last week, Jackson wasn’t sacked for the first time since September 2022 and faced a career-low 9.1% pressure rate, despite missing injured starting center Tyler Linderbaum and left tackle Ronnie Stanley. — Jamison Hensley
Bold prediction: The Colts will hold the Ravens to fewer than 75 rushing yards despite Baltimore’s average of 144 yards through two games. The Colts rank first in rushing defense, allowing just 2.6 yards per carry entering Week 3. That’s not to say Jackson can’t beat the Colts through the air. But an effective performance against the run will make Baltimore’s offense a bit more one-dimensional and easier to defend. — Stephen Holder
Stat to know: Rookie Zay Flowers has 13 receptions in his first two games, which is more than twice as much as any other Ravens player (all other Baltimore receivers have combined for 16).
Matchup X factor: Ravens wide receiver Nelson Agholor. After Odell Beckham Jr. didn’t finish the Ravens’ Week 2 game and was held out of practice on Wednesday, Agholor might take on a larger role. If so, he’s coming off a strong game in which he caught five passes for 63 yards and a touchdown. — Walder
Injuries: Colts | Ravens
What to know for fantasy: Jackson has the second-highest completion percentage (74.5%) among quarterbacks through two games. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Colts’ past five road games have gone over the total. Read more.
Moody’s pick: Ravens 33, Colts 17 Walder’s pick: Ravens 23, Colts 20 FPI prediction: BAL, 77.3% (by an average of 10.5 points)
Matchup must-reads: With Richardson in concussion protocol, QB’s style sparks debate … Jackson’s accuracy has taken the Ravens QB to another level
4:05 p.m. ET | CBS | Spread: SEA -6.5 (42)
Storyline to watch: Bryce Young missed the first two days of practice this week with an ankle injury, putting veteran Andy Dalton in line to start Sunday at Lumen Field. The 35-year-old Dalton isn’t anywhere near the dynamic threat that Young is, but he did game-manage the Saints to a victory over Seattle last October. — Brady Henderson
Bold prediction: Dalton will light up a Seattle defense that ranks 30th in passing yards allowed (325 per game) with 350 yards and three touchdown passes. That would be huge, considering Young (ankle) has combined for 299 yards passing and two touchdown passes in the first two games. Dalton shouldn’t have to worry about much pressure from the Seahawks, who rank 29th in sacks with two. — David Newton
Stat to know: Kenneth Walker III has four career games with multiple rushing touchdowns, tied for the most by a Seahawks player in his first two seasons in team history (David Sims, Curt Warner, Derrick Fenner).
Matchup X factor: Dalton. I suspect he’ll be an upgrade over Young in the rookie’s current state — Young has a 36 QBR in two games — and that might give Carolina a chance. — Walder
Injuries: Panthers | Seahawks
What to know for fantasy: The Panthers have allowed at least 130 rushing yards in each of their first two games. The Seahawks’ offensive line ranks seventh in run block win rate. In this matchup, Walker might exceed expectations. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Seahawks are 1-6 ATS as a favorite over the past two seasons, going 0-5 ATS in their past five games. Read more.
Moody’s pick: Seahawks 28, Panthers 17 Walder’s pick: Seahawks 24, Panthers 17 FPI prediction: SEA, 72.5% (by an average of 8.4 points)
Matchup must-reads: Panthers not expecting Young to play vs. Seahawks … Seahawks’ Woolen likely out Sunday
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0:57
What can fantasy managers expect from Tyler Lockett?
Field Yates details the up-and-down nature of Tyler Lockett’s fantasy production.
4:25 p.m. ET | Fox | Spread: KC -13 (48)
Storyline to watch: First to seven points wins? It hasn’t been that bad for either team, but offensively the Chiefs and Bears have been disappointments though two weeks. These teams are tied for 22nd in the league in scoring with 37 points through two games. Each team, Kansas City in particular, has reason to believe improvement will come if it can stop sloppy offensive play. Still, the problems have been so widespread for the Chiefs and Bears that it’s not wise to expect an explosive, high-scoring game. — Adam Teicher
Bold prediction: Patrick Mahomes will toss five touchdown passes against Chicago, three of which go to tight end Travis Kelce. Matt Eberflus is back to calling the Bears’ defense after former defensive coordinator Alan Williams’ sudden resignation. Eberflus’ Colts teams held Mahomes to his lowest Total QBR (56.3) against any team he has faced multiple times, including the playoffs. But the Chiefs quarterback is primed for a breakout performance against a Bears defense that has allowed an average of 25.5 offensive points in the first two games. — Courtney Cronin
Stat to know: Since the start of last season, 54% of the Chiefs’ receiving yards have come after the catch, the highest rate in the league. The Bears rank 31st in opponent YAC per reception over the same span.
Matchup X factor: Bears backup left tackle Larry Borom, assuming he gets the call to replace the injured Braxton Jones. Jones’ 97% pass block win rate ranked third among tackles, so Borom has impressive shoes to fill. — Walder
Injuries: Bears | Chiefs
What to know for fantasy: Justin Fields has been sacked on 11.5% of his dropbacks since entering the league. Fields has taken 10 sacks so far this season despite having the fifth-highest average time to throw. Don’t overlook the Chiefs if you’re looking for a streamable defense. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Fields is 8-18-1 ATS in his career, including 0-3 ATS when getting double digits. Read more.
Moody’s pick: Chiefs 33, Bears 13 Walder’s pick: Chiefs 38, Bears 16 FPI prediction: KC, 81.9% (by an average of 12.8 points)
Matchup must-reads: GM says Bears don’t view Fields ‘as a finger pointer’ … Will Mahomes ever be paid what he’s worth? … Reid says Chiefs ‘can fix’ Taylor’s penalty woes
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1:38
Greeny: The Bears are “ruining” Justin Fields
Mike Greenberg goes off on the Chicago Bears, saying the organization is incompetent and is “ruining” Justin Fields.
4:25 p.m. ET | Fox | Spread: DAL -12 (43)
Storyline to watch: The Cardinals have been able to get to opposing quarterbacks with relative ease through two games, ranking tied for third with nine sacks. Sunday will be a battle of a top-tier pass rush against a top-tier offensive line, as the Cowboys have allowed just one sack of quarterback Dak Prescott. — Josh Weinfuss
Bold prediction: The Cardinals will have more possessions with fewer than 20 yards against the Cowboys than the nine they have had in their first two games of the season. The Cowboys’ defense has had eight drives in each of their wins, against the New York Giants and New York Jets, in which they allowed fewer than 20 yards. In 111 snaps, opposing offenses have combined for 17 negative-yardage plays. At 15.3%, that ranks second in the NFL. — Todd Archer
Stat to know: Prescott will play his 100th career game against the Cardinals. He’s the only player in NFL history with at least 150 touchdown passes and 25 rushing touchdowns in his first 100 games.
Matchup X factor: Cowboys defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa. Here’s another chance for Odighizuwa to shine: He’s currently leading the league in pass rush win rate as a defensive tackle (25%). — Walder
Injuries: Cowboys | Cardinals
What to know for fantasy: Dallas has allowed the third-fewest fantasy points per game to quarterbacks, the fewest to running backs and the fewest to wide receivers. If you have players facing the Cowboys’ defense on your fantasy teams, temper your expectations. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Cardinals are the sixth team in the past 30 seasons to start 2-0 ATS and 0-2 outright. Those teams are 1-4 outright and ATS in their third game (Falcons won and covered last season). Read more.
Moody’s pick: Cowboys 35, Cardinals 10 Walder’s pick: Cowboys 33, Cardinals 3 FPI prediction: DAL, 88.1% (by an average of 16.5 points)
Matchup must-reads: How Prescott got in sync with Cowboys’ receivers … Watkins to undergo biceps surgery … Cowboys CB Diggs suffers torn ACL … Cardinals’ offense progresses but needs to finish
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1:02
Swagu: Cowboys are still contenders without Trevon Diggs
Marcus Spears says the Dallas Cowboys are still Super Bowl contenders despite Trevon Diggs tearing his ACL.
8:20 p.m. ET | NBC | Spread: LV -2.5 (43)
Storyline to watch: Beat the Raiders in the teams’ first meeting in Las Vegas and Kenny Pickett will be the first Steelers quarterback to win a game in the Raiders’ home stadium since … Neil O’Donnell back on Dec. 10, 1995 — 2½ years before Pickett was born. The Raiders have won four straight home games against the Steelers (2006, 2012, 2013, 2018) with four different QBs (Andrew Walter, Carson Palmer, Terrelle Pryor and Derek Carr) by the average score of 25-21, beating two-time Super Bowl-winning quarterback Ben Roethlisberger in each of those contests. Those games, though, were all in Oakland. — Paul Gutierrez
Bold prediction: Josh Jacobs gets his first 100-yard rushing game of the season. Jacobs averaged nearly 100 yards a game last season, so this prediction doesn’t seem that bold. However, in the Week 2 loss to the Buffalo Bills, Jacobs had minus-2 rushing yards on nine attempts after just 48 yards a week earlier. Jacobs gets back on track this week against the Steelers, who have allowed the most rush yards over expected (plus-144) of any defense through Week 2 since 2018, according to NFL Next Gen Stats. — Brooke Pryor
Stat to know: Davante Adams has 116 straight games with a reception, the fifth-longest active streak in the league, trailing DeAndre Hopkins (147), Travis Kelce (144), Stefon Diggs (121) and Zach Ertz (118).
Matchup X factor: Pickett. The Steelers quarterback was bailed out by the defense in Week 2, but he has to be better for Pittsburgh to succeed going forward. Pickett has an 18.8 QBR, which ranks last of all qualifying quarterbacks. — Walder
Injuries: Steelers | Raiders
What to know for fantasy: This season, the Raiders have allowed the third-most fantasy points per game to running backs. In order for Pittsburgh running backs to capitalize on this trend, its offensive line must perform better. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Mike Tomlin is 2-6 ATS in his career against the Raiders. He is 3-5 outright, all as a favorite. Read more.
Moody’s pick: Steelers 24, Raiders 21 Walder’s pick: Raiders 27, Steelers 16 FPI prediction: LV, 50.8% (by an average of 0.4 points)
Matchup must-reads: Fitzpatrick on Chubb hit: ‘I’m not a dirty player’ … Adams criticizes ‘out of control’ safety Rapp … Can Pickens help save the Steelers’ offense? … Two games, one target: Renfrow trying to make sense of Raiders role
Storyline to watch: Almost no one saw the Bucs starting the season off 2-0, but their matchup with the defending NFC champions will be the only battle of unbeatens in Week 3. With the league’s top two run-stopping units, plus defenses that have a combined 12.0 sacks and 11 takeaways, you get the feeling this one will come down to who can protect their quarterback better. — Jenna Laine
Bold prediction: Mike Evans will find the end zone twice. He is coming off a monster six-catch, 171-yard performance against the Bears, and now faces a banged-up Eagles secondary that just lost slot corner Avonte Maddox for the year with a torn pec. Mario Goodrich got his first action as a pro in his place. It’s a safe bet the Bucs will line Evans up inside to try to take advantage of Maddox’s absence. — Tim McManus
Stat to know: DeVonta Smith and A.J. Brown represent 79% of the Eagles’ receiving yards, 59% of the targets and 55% of the receptions this season (highest percentage of a team’s receiving yards by a duo this season).
Matchup X factor: Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield. He has faced the lowest rate of light boxes (harder to throw against) in the league, and I suspect that will change this week if Tampa Bay falls behind. — Walder
Injuries: Eagles | Buccaneers
What to know for fantasy: Evans and Chris Godwin are a talented and versatile wide receiver duo, and Tampa Bay should rely heavily on them. The Eagles currently rank 31st in the league in pass defense, allowing 326 yards per game. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Mayfield is 3-0 ATS in his past three starts and 5-2 ATS in his past seven starts. Read more.
Moody’s pick: Eagles 27, Buccaneers 17 Walder’s pick: Eagles 30, Buccaneers 10 FPI prediction: PHI, 69.6% (by an average of 7.2 points)
Matchup must-reads: Tests confirm Maddox tore his pectoral muscle … Bucs WR Mike Evans’ big day prompts online trend … Buccaneers’ Shaq Barrett dedicates pick-six to late daughter
play
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Why fantasy managers should start A. J. Brown in Week 3
Liz Loza expects A. J. Brown to post strong fantasy numbers in Week 3.
Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET | ESPN | Spread: CIN -3 (44)
Storyline to watch: Will Joe Burrow be available on Sunday? The Cincinnati QB is day-to-day as he continues to recover from a strained right calf that he reinjured in Week 2. Whether it’s Burrow or backup QB Jake Browning, the Bengals’ offense that ranks last in total yards per game (212.0) will face a Rams defense that ranks sixth in the NFL in total yards allowed per game (272.5) this season. — Ben Baby
Bold prediction: Regardless of who is at quarterback for the Bengals, Aaron Donald will take advantage of Cincinnati’s interior offensive line with two sacks Monday night. Although it’s a new combination of guard-center-guard for the Bengals, the group has struggled to protect the quarterback, ranking 31st in pass block win rate among interior offensive lines since the start of the 2022 season. Donald leads all interior defenders (with 100 interior pass-rush plays with win or loss) in pass rush win rate over that same span. — Sarah Barshop
Stat to know: Matthew Stafford’s 93 pass attempts this season rank second in the NFL behind Mac Jones (96). Stafford would need to throw 41 times to tie his career high for most pass attempts through his team’s first three games of a season (135 in 2018 with the Lions).
Matchup X factor: Bengals cornerbacks Cam Taylor-Britt and Chidobe Awuzie. Can anyone stop rookie star receiver Puka Nacua? Taylor-Britt and Awuzie will be the latest to try. — Walder
Injuries: Rams | Bengals
What to know for fantasy: With Akers gone, RB Kyren Williams could easily be a must-start. In last week’s game against the 49ers, Williams played 96% of the offensive snaps and had 20 touches. The Bengals rank 31st in rushing yards allowed so far this season, which should give Williams room to work. See Week 3 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Bengals are 9-3 ATS in their past 12 games as a favorite. Read more.
Moody’s pick: Bengals 26, Rams 23 Walder’s pick: Rams 26, Bengals 20 FPI prediction: CIN, 65.3% (by an average of 5.5 points)
Matchup must-reads: Meet Rams sensation Nacua … Burrow ‘day-to-day’ after tweaking calf injury in loss to Ravens
Dinamo Zagreb and Astana will go one-on-one at Stadion Maksimir on Thursday in matchday one of the Europa Conference League Group C, with kick-off slated for 19:00 GMT.
Key Highlights
Dinamo Zagreb warmed up for the visit of Astana with a commanding 3-0 win against Slaven Belupo in the HNL. The win took Dinamo Zagreb’s unbeaten run to five matches. The win also took their winning run to three consecutive matches in the HNL.
Dinamo Zagreb have started strongly to the HNL campaign; they have collected 13 points out of the available 18. They are currently 3rd on the HNL table, two points behind leaders Hajduk Split.
Dinamo Zagreb will focus on retaining their form and performance levels ahead of hosting Astana on Thursday.
Bet here
Astana warmed up for the trip to Dinamo Zagreb with an important 2-1 home win over Tobol. The win ended Astana’s four-match winless run, including two draws and two defeats.
With the win, Astana are on 43 points, six behind the leaders of the Kazakhstan Premier League, Ordabasy. They will look to retain their form ahead of playing Dinamo Zagreb on Thursday.
Injury Report
Neither side has reported fresh injury issues ahead of the Thursday clash.
Prediction
Dinamo Zagreb will win the home match and get off to a winning start to their Europa Conference League campaign.
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Shubman Gill hit his fifth One-Day Internationals century during India’s Asia Cup match against Bangladesh at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.
The 24-year-old struck six fours and four sixes on his way to the hundred, reaching the three-figure score in 117 deliveries. Gill, in the process, crossed 1000 runs in the format in the calender year 2023.
Opening the batting for India, Gill guided India’s chase and held one end even as wickets tumbled at the other. India still needed 78 runs to win off the last 10 overs with Gill and Axar Patel at the crease for India.
Shooting — and especially three-point shooting — has become a must in today’s pace-and-space game, which is why having one of the best NBA shooters in 2023-24 puts their respective teams in a privileged position. And while every team still needs to play some defense to go the distance, this is an offense-oriented league.
Top 10 NBA shooters in 2023-24
With that in mind, we’ve put together a list of the top-10 best shooters in the league ahead of the upcoming season, considering either volume, efficiency, or even form.
10. Kevin Durant
Our list of the best NBA shooters in 2023-24 starts with a proven veteran whose game keeps aging like a fine wine. Even if he’s struggled with injuries lately, Kevin Durant is still one of the most efficient scorers in the game, and his shot is just smooth and beautiful to watch.
Durant is one of the few guys who could legitimately shoot 50/40/90 from the floor year in and year out. He’s so good at getting to his spots, and his shot is usually money from all three levels. A guy his size shouldn’t be able to move and shoot the rock like he does.
9. Tyrese Maxey
Tyrese Maxey hasn’t fully embraced his potential as a sniper yet, but he’s been extremely efficient when he’s actually dared to pull up from beyond the arc. He’s coming off shooting 43.4% from three-point land, which was the fifth-best in the league.
Maxey has the potential to be one of the most complete and explosive scorers in the league. Perhaps he’ll finally take that leap forward this season.
8. Joe Harris
It’s been a while since Joe Harris was a factor on the court because of all the injuries. Nonetheless, the shot is usually the last part of the game to fade, and Harris has been one of the top-notch three-point shooters in the game for years now.
Even in limited action, Harris was quite solid for the Brooklyn Nets last season, shooting the rock at the eighth most efficient clip in the league at a whopping 42.6% from three. If you’re only good at one thing, you better be very good at it.
7. Luke Kennard
The fact that Luke Kennard got paid to such a big contract has one justification and one justification alone: He’s a very good three-point shooter. Even so, he doesn’t-bring that much more to the table, which is why he hasn’t been on the floor as often as one would think for a guy making that much money.
Being a solid three-point shooter can get you a lot of money in today’s game, and chances are his contract will be a huge liability under this new CBA. Even so, he was elite from beyond the arc last season, knocking down 49.4% of his attempts.
6. Buddy Hield
Even though Buddy Hield didn’t break out as the dominant scorer some thought he’d be when he was wreaking havoc in Texas, he’s made a name for himself in the league for the way he can get hot and knock down shots from beyond the arc.
Constantly tangled up in trade talks, it’s hard to think of a team that wouldn’t benefit from Hield’s sharpshooting skills. He was second in three-pointers made last season (288) all while shooting 42.5% from beyond the arc, the ninth-highest percentage.
5. Seth Curry
Seth Curry is no longer just Dell Curry‘s son and Stephen Curry‘s brother. It’s been a while since he established himself as one of the best shooters in the NBA, making a name for himself and getting himself a lot of money in the process.
Curry’s sweet jumper, wrist flick, quick release, and high arc might be in his genes. He’s obviously not as impactful as Steph, but that three-point shooting of his will grant him a roster spot for years to come.
4. Desmond Bane
Desmond Bane was one of the most improved players in the league last season. He put his head down, didn’t do a lot of talking — unlike every single one of his teammates on the Memphis Grizzlies — and just let his game speak for itself.
Bane is now considered one of the best shooters in the league, and that ability granted him one of the biggest contract extensions in his draft class. His wingspan continues to lead to multiple jokes, but his shooting is definitely on point.
3. Damian Lillard
Damian Lillard stole most of the headlines when it became public that he wants to leave the Portland Trail Blazers once and for all. But besides being in the news cycle 24-7, he also happens to be one of the top shooters in the NBA currently.
Truth be told, Lillard is actually the most efficient shooter when it comes to knocking down shots from 30+ feet, even ahead of Stephen Curry. Also, his ability to come up huge in the clutch makes him the kind of player who could elevate every single contender.
2. Klay Thompson
Klay Thompson seems to be the only guy who could go out there and break most of Steph Curry records on any given night, all while taking just a couple of dribbles. Simply put, he’s 1B to Stephen Curry’s 1A when it comes to the greatest shooters of all time.
Thompson has perhaps the most beautiful and mesmerizing shooting form this game has ever seen. He may not be the same player he used to be before those injuries, but his shot continues to be money, and he could play for another decade just out of shooting.
1. Stephen Curry
Stephen Curry isn’t only the greatest three-point shooter in the history of the game, he’s also one of the greatest point guards of all-time. Even if he’s not your average pass-first guy, he changed the way the game was played, even for defenders.
Curry has to be guarded across the whole court. He can pull up from — literally — anywhere, and he’ll shoot over 40% from three despite taking over ten triples a game. He’s the most efficient and dominant volume shooter we’ll ever see.
It’s important to keep your friends close—And enemies closer. We take a positive look at Man City’s performance to better understand what United can do to play better this time around.
Manchester City has been in exceptionally good form in recent months. Their matches against the strongest contenders have all proved to be hints toward what’s to come. We have strong reasons to believe that the team will be making quite a splash in the Champions League 2023-24. Why? Well, let’s find out.
Current Performance
Manchester City is definitely one of the best football teams right now. For example, if you check the chances for the upcoming UEFA Champions League, Man City is likely going to be the winner beating all others.
To test that hypothesis, we looked up some reliable oddsmakers that have pretty solid odds for English football games in general. And right on cue, they are placing Manchester City at +225 while all others trail behind.
Going deeper into this sports betting Canada platform, we found the odds for other teams as well. Bayern Munich is at +550, Real Madrid at +700, Arsenal at +1100, Barcelona at +1400, PSG at +1400 too, and us, Man United, are placed at +1600.
That’s as expected, from whichever angle you look at it like current performance or H2H stats. Though we’re not 100% happy with United’s current standing, nothing is set in stone, really.
Standing, Ranking, and Stats
The team is not only coming off a great performance but is also statistically sound. In recent years, the team has had a tendency to reach the more advanced stages. In the pot, we have teams like Napoli, Munich, PSG, Benfica, and Barcelona with City.
Man City won the last edition (Champions League 2022-23) and will be defending their glory with renewed vigour. That season saw City’s Erling Haaland scoring the tournament’s most goals (12) and Kevin De Bruyne having the tournament’s most assists (6).
Defeating Inter was a great feat—And we believe that the team will continue to perform along similar lines.
We should also note that there have only been two instances where the defending champions managed to defend the trophy. It was Real Madrid both times. The tournament, in general, is quite unpredictable.
If there is another team that can defend the trophy as well as Real Madrid even against stark competition, then it’s probably not Manchester City.
It’s an uphill task. The staff and players can be in good spirits but that wouldn’t matter much. The single elimination in the knockout stages means that it doesn’t directly matter how good the teams are—There is always the possibility of losing and that makes it quite challenging to win back-to-back tournaments.
Europe’s Powerhouse
Man City’s performance is nothing short of a powerhouse. It has exceptional squad depth with talented footballers who have etched their names in history in several European competitions. The bench strength is also nearly as strong as the starting lineup, making the team a formidable opponent to break through.
There’s also the tactical flexibility that we’re only seeing improving lately. The past few weeks have shown us that City’s talented players can overwhelm opponents pretty easily. The ability to adapt the playing style to exploit weaknesses has been instrumental in the success of the team recently—And it’s a skill that will come in very handy in the 2023-24 Champions League.
Quite expectedly, we also saw the team improve their relentless performance. The high-pressing style of the team can actively dismantle and disrupt any kind of build-up play even from the toughest competitors and in the knockout stages.
Forcing turnovers high up the pitch is central to City’s success rate—And if those goal opportunities are correctly capitalized on (which we have all the reason in the world to believe that they will be), we’re looking at fierce gameplay next year from the City squad.
Not surprisingly, the team’s midfield control has also improved over the last year or so. It’s a place of creativity and comprehensive control that, when coupled with the strong defensive unit, can propel the team to ever higher records when they play in the Champions League.
These are all the things that United is facing. The 2022-23 squad is shaping up to be remarkable and we think they have what it takes to beat City in their own game this time around. However, just beating City won’t be enough.
There are bigger and more imminent threats to United’s performance that only a balanced squad can’t solve.
In Conclusion
We have analyzed City’s current performance so that you know what United is up against.
This is the last UEFA competition with 32 teams in the group stage with the format slated to change from 2024-25 onward. Let’s see if City can defend the trophy against bigger threats and where does United land with a powerful squad!
The month of August was not nearly as busy as June or July but there were still some significant and memorable commitments. Here is a look at five schools that won the month in recruiting as we look toward the season:
ALABAMA
The Crimson Tide did a great job of adding a legacy and flipping three other big-time prospects in the month of August to propel their class to No. 12 nationally, which is still low for their lofty standards.
Tight end Jay Lindsey out of Butler (Ala.) Patrician Academy flipped to Alabama from Mississippi State. The Crimson Tide got high three-star Rydarrius Morgan from Phenix City (Ala.) Central to flip from Florida State. Three-star DB Dre Kirkpatrick Jr., from Gadsden (Ala.) Gadsden City is the legacy that made his pledge.
The biggest get of the month was when five-star safety Peyton Woodyard from Bellflower (Calif.) St. John Bosco flipped to Alabama from Georgia. USC was also involved but playing in the SEC – and playing for coach Nick Saban – were big draws to the five-star.
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*****
MIAMI
It was a battle until the end for five-star safety Zaquan Patterson from Hollywood (Fla.) Chaminade Madonna and literally could have come down to the final minutes as many felt the Seminoles would still win out in the end. That was not the case, though, as coach Mario Cristobal and his staff won a massive in-state recruiting battle because Patterson is excellent in the back end and keeping kids home is crucial.
Patterson was big but not everything. The Hurricanes also flipped four-star defensive end Elias Rudolph, who flipped from Michigan and transferred to Cincinnati (Ohio) Taft for his senior season from South Florida. The Hurricanes also added an offensive lineman with a ton of potential in three-star Kavion Broussard from Zachary, La.
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*****
OKLAHOMA
Oklahoma might have had the best month of any school in the country – even if some of it was completely expected the Sooners will still take it.
Five-star defensive lineman David Stone came home to Oklahoma despite Miami’s best efforts to land him. The Sooners also got a commitment from four-star DB Eli Bowen, whose five-star brother, Peyton, signed with Oklahoma in 2022. Former Northwestern three-star quarterback commit Brendan Zurbrugg flipped to the Sooners.
Oklahoma City (Okla.) Heritage Hall three-star Andy Bass is an interesting pickup and has the athleticism to make things happen and then the Sooners also added three-star OL Josh Aisosa.
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*****
OLE MISS
If anything had a better month, it was coach Lane Kiffin’s club. It was a huge win for Ole Miss to land five-star defensive lineman Kamarion Franklin as it seemed to be trending in Auburn’s direction in the closing days before his commitment date.
But Ole Miss got a whole lot more as well. Four-star quarterback Trever Jackson, who was highly impressive at the Elite 11, picked the Rebels along with former four-star athlete and former Arkansas pledge Noreel White.
Three-star tight end Dillon Hipp picked Ole Miss over Baylor and he brings major size to the passing game and Ole Miss also added three-star receiver Sanfrisco Magee and JUCO DB Cedrick Beavers.
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*****
UCF
It has really been a phenomenal summer for UCF’s recruiting efforts and August continued that trend with four big pledges, especially with two important four-star commitments.
After an early commitment to Georgia, four-star safety Jaylen Heyward backed off that pledge and decided to stay closer to home. Gus Malzahn and his team also landed four-star receiver Bredell Richardson.
That wasn’t all, though, as the Knights also added three-star receiver Jordyn Bridgewater and also high three-star running back Frankie Arthur from Texas.
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Crows veteran Taylor Walker has capped off a remarkable season by being named in his first AFL All-Australian team in his 16th season.
A dominant key forward, this season marked the fourth time Walker had been picked in the extended squad – the previous three times missing out on the famous blazer.
Named at centre-half forward, the 33-year-old kicked a career-best 76 goals in 2023. This included 12 occasions where he bagged three or more goals to finish just two goals shy of the Coleman Medal.
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Taylor Walker in action for the Adelaide Crows. (AFL Photos via Getty Images)
Reviving his career in the twilight years of his career, Walker reflected on how he was able to turn things around.
“A couple of years ago I thought I was a bit buggered, to be honest,” he said on stage following the announcement.
“My knee was causing me a bit of grief (so) I changed a bit of what I was doing in my strength program and I’ve been able to train under (Crows’ high performance manager) Darren Burgess – he’s been enormous for me – and Josh Manuel who is our strength and conditioning coach. He’s been able to help me get back to being physically fit.
“Being mentally fit, I’ve got three kids at home, my beautiful wife, Ellie, so I think my life balance has allowed me to go to the football club and just enjoy it for what it is.
“I’m very grateful for what I do. I went to Perth on the weekend and (walking) out, I treated it as though it was the last time I was ever going to play there. So, to be able to enjoy moments like that, I think it allows me to play and enjoy football for what it is, and have a real passion inside to play for as long as I can.”
Alongside Walker, 11 other players including James Sicily, Tim English and Nick Daicso were named in their first All-Australian team.
Only five members defended their positions from last year’s team.
The 2023 All-Australian team poses for their official photo. (Dylan Burns/AFL Photos via Getty Images)
Giants’ skipper Toby Greene was bestowed the honour of captain, with Western Bulldogs leader Marcus Bontempelli named vice-captain.
With his selection, Bontempelli, and Geelong stalwart Tom Stewart, became five-time All-Australians.
Minor premiers Collingwood and Port Adelaide were the best-represented clubs with three selections a piece.
This included Josh and Nick Daicos, who became the first brothers to be picked in the same All-Australian team since Chad and Kane Cornes in 2007.
On Monday, the AFL unveiled its All-Australian squad for this season, with all 18 teams represented for the first time in league history. Half of the squad was named in the final team at the AFL award night on Wednesday.
Notable omissions included Dustin Martin, Jack Viney and Tom Liberatore.
2023 ALL-AUSTRALIAN TEAM
B: James Sicily (Hawthorn), Callum Wilkie (St Kilda), Tom Stewart (Geelong)
HB: Jack Sinclair (St Kilda), Darcy Moore (Collingwood), Dan Houston (Port Adelaide)
It has been a fascinating few years for Brad Stevens since he took over as Celtics GM and President of Basketball Operations. It’s an impossible job to do perfectly, but from the outside looking in, it’s easy to see that he has a knack for the job.
He’s made big trades, eclectic draft picks, but most importantly, he’s built elite rosters. With another offseason coming to an end, let’s look back at Brad Stevens biggest trades and see if he came out on top.
Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports
Kristaps Porzingis trade:
Boston Celtics acquired: Kristaps Porzingis, 2023 1st, top-4 protected 2024 1st Memphis Grizzlies acquired: Marcus Smart Washington Wizards acquired: Tyus Jones, Danilo Gallinari, Mike Muscala, 2023 2nd
We’ll start with the most recent headliner. Acquiring Kristaps Porzingis for Marcus Smart will likely go down as a defining trade moment for the Brad Steven’s Celtics. Not only are you moving on from a pillar of the organization in Smart, but KP signals a massive change in the way the Celtics will play basketball for the next couple seasons at a minimum.
Now, we’re in the business of giving grades and saying who won and lost a trade, so without basketball having been played, this remains an incomplete. On paper, acquiring KP for basically Smart, Gallinari, and Muscala is a pretty outstanding return. We won’t know about the metaphorical changes with Smart going until we, again, get into the season. For now, I say we give the Celtics the winning shade and adjust accordingly later.
We started with the most recent trade of Brad Stevens tenure, how about the first trade he made? Turning Kamba Walker’s contract and his knee issues into Al Hoford remains not only one the best trades of Steven’s career, but really of any trade made in the past few years. Horford has once again become an integral part of the Celtics rotation. His defense, 3-point shooting, and leadership are basically irreplaceable on this Celtics roster. It’s hard to imagine this team without him and re-acquiring him in the first place has proven to be a master stroke. This is a pretty easy A+ grade. Celtics come out as big winners.
The Derrick White deal was the first trade Stevens made that was met with a fair amount of initial backlash. Josh Richardson, Romeo Langford, a 1st round pick, and another potential pick swap for just Derrick White was not initially popular among the masses. Hilariously, most people were worried about the pick swap six seasons in the future. Thankfully, there is nothing to worry about anymore. Derrick White has gotten better by the season and now enters his 2nd full season with the team, becoming the de facto starting PG with Smart out the door. His 3-point shooting and court vision have both improved since joining Boston, adding onto his already elite perimeter and rim defense. I think it’s safe to say that this is another A+ trade and a big win for Stevens.
Grade: A+ Winner: Celtics
Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images
Malcolm Brogdon trade:
Celtics acquired: Malcolm Brogdon Pacers acquired: Aaron Nesmith, Daniel Theis, Nik Stauskas, Malik Fitts, Juwan Morgan, 2023 1st
Looking back on this trade, it’s a bit shocking that the Celtics were able to acquire Brogdon for what ultimately became Aaron Neismith and a first round pick. Brogdon had a few seasons in a row with injury issues, so Stevens definitely took advantage of his price tag and got him for about 75 cents on the dollar. Brogdon was a big piece of the 2022 Celtics, but his injury issues caught up to him once again, as his elbow injury severely inhibited his play during the Eastern Conference Finals. This is a tough trade to judge. It was definitely a win of Stevens and the Celtics, but I’m not sure I’d call it the same level of success as the White or Horford trades. Let’s grade it a B/B+ for now and reevaluate once the reigning Sixth Man of the Year is healthy again.
We’ll keep it quick on this one. Muscala was the big ticket acquisition at the trade deadline for the Celtics and by “big ticket” I mean it was all they could acquire after trading their 1st round pick for Brogdon a few months earlier. Muscala barely played, but he did end up being a nice trade piece to use during the Kristaps trade. I think we can give this one a C and give the Thunder the win since they got a few assets for Muscala.
Grade: C Winner: Thunder
And that it’s so far! So far, Stevens has a 4-1 record in his trades with all four wins being major parts of his winning roster without giving up major long-term assets. For me, I say the Al Horford trade is still his finest. Flipping the Kemba contract to bring back a guy that has defined an era of Celtics basketball and him taking his game up another notch is a thing a beauty. It set the stage for the three other big trades he made and his handling of Horford the next few seasons will be a major part of the future of the Celtics roster. Anyway, it’s been a good start to Stevens tenure as Celtics GM. The KP trade starts the next chapter. Let’s see how it turns out for the boys in Green.
Joe Gomez has opened about how various injuries throughout his Liverpool career have impacted his mental health.
The defender joined Liverpool back in 2015 and, while he has made over 150 appearances for the club in that period, Gomez has spent a lot of time on the periphery due a number of injuries.
Gomez suffered a cruciate ligament injury early on in his Reds career, missing over 100 games due to the ailment, and has missed 129 games since then with various other problems.
Speaking with Jacamo and CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) as part of the launch of a new collection of adidas activewear, the England international has discussed how these injuries ended up rocking his world.
“Once I got injured, I had a lot of spare time, I think that’s the biggest thing you notice as a player, that when you’re on the pitch training you don’t have time to be thinking, you’re just in your subconscious enjoying the game,” he explained.
“I had a couple of little injuries and then my last one with my hamstring was a big one and sort of did rock my world. It made me up my appreciation.
“Once I got back into football, I had other battles with worrying about my body and things that I couldn’t control aside from doing the work I needed to do. It’s just appreciation and being thankful that I can do what I still do. And drawing on to that to keep me motivated to still do my gym sessions, even when we come back from an away game.
“I just remember in those moments where it was tough, aside from that, just enjoying it.”
Gomez is currently fully fit and a part of Jurgen Klopp’s squad. The defender came off the bench in the Reds’ 3-1 win over Bournemouth at Anfield on Saturday.
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