When it comes to betting NFL futures, there are seemingly as many handicapping philosophies as there are ways for the New York Jets to lose. Take, for example, the NFL win totals market.
Some bettors like to pounce as soon win totals are released. Some prefer to jump in after the free-agent frenzy dies down. Or after the NFL draft is complete. Or after the schedule is finalized.
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Of course, each approach has plusses and minuses, so there’s no right or wrong option.
My preference? Practice patience. Although that might mean missing out on the optimum price, the tradeoff is getting to monitor a good chunk of training camp, including significant injuries to key personnel.
After playing the waiting game again this year — and searching for the best odds — I’m unleashing my five favorite NFL over/under bets for this season (listed in order of confidence).
If you believe in the Ravens this season – and oddsmakers clearly do, as Baltimore’s win total is tied with the Rams for highest in the NFL – you believe several related things.
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First, that ousted coach John Harbaugh was mostly responsible for last year’s disappointing 8-9 finish (which followed three straight double-digit win campaigns).
And that Harbaugh’s replacement — longtime assistant Jesse Minter, who has never led a program in two decades in college or the NFL — is a significant upgrade.
And that Minter (a defensive guru) and new pass-rusher Trey Hendrickson (a four-time Pro Bowler with Cincinnati) can quickly fix a unit that last year ranked 18th in scoring defense, 24th in total defense, 30th in passing defense and tied for 30th in sacks.
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And that quarterback Lamar Jackson — who has played fewer than 13 games in half of his eight NFL seasons and is approaching his 30th birthday — can stay upright all year and recapture his speed and elusiveness after averaging a career-low 47.8 rushing yards per game in 2026.
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And that 32-year-old running back Derrick Henry, who has racked up more than 2,500 rushing yards and 32 rushing touchdowns in his first two seasons in Baltimore, won’t decline and/or break down in his 11th NFL season.
One positive for the 2026 Ravens: a favorable schedule, including eight games against the NFL’s two weakest divisions (AFC South, NFC South).
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Still, betting on Baltimore to eclipse its win total for just the third time in the last seven years requires a lot of blind faith — especially since the franchise has topped 11 victories just twice since 2012.
FLORHAM PARK, NEW JERSEY – AUGUST 11: Geno Smith #7 of the New York Jets hands off to Braelon Allen #0 of the New York Jets during a joint practice between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New York Jets at Atlantic Health Jets Training Center on August 11, 2026 in Florham Park, New Jersey.
There’s a reason I took that pot-shot at the Jets at the top of this article: It’s warranted.
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In the past decade, New York has recorded zero winning seasons (and by extension, zero playoff appearances). In fact, after instate NHL sibling the Buffalo Sabres finally made the playoffs this past season, the Jets now own the longest postseason drought in North American team sports.
Here’s a quick breakdown of New York’s on-field futility over the past 10 years: five wins or fewer seven times; three wins or fewer in three of the past six seasons (including last year’s 3-14 record); seven last-place and three third-place finishes in the AFC East; and a 13-47 record in division games.
Don’t get me wrong, I don’t hate everything about the Jets. They appear to have had a very strong 2026 draft. And their defense should be improved over last season, when it ranked 25th in yards allowed (355.6 per game) and 31st in points allowed (29.2).
Also, the pass-catching corps led by stud wideout Garrett Wilson will be a strength … if quarterback Geno Smith can fix the turnover issues that have afflicted him the last two years (32 interceptions in 32 games).
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Should the 35-year-old veteran struggle again and/or not stay healthy, here are New York’s backup options: a rookie (Cade Klubik) and two journeymen (Brady Cook and Bailey Zappe).
Throw in four games against Buffalo and New England — plus eight more versus the rugged NFC North and AFC West — and I’m banking on the Jets falling short of their win total for the ninth time in the last 11 seasons.
It’s difficult to defend recommending a positive wager on a franchise coming off consecutive 7-10 seasons.
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Especially when the offense is led by a quarterback who has two postseason victories across 10 NFL seasons. And a defense that was beyond atrocious the past two years, surrendering an NFL-high 979 points in 34 games (28.8 PPG).
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Yet I’m taking a shot with that very franchise in 2026, for multiple reasons. First and foremost, I’m cautiously optimistic that Dallas has significantly repaired that busted defense.
Among the key additions up front: veteran pass-rushers Rashan Gary and Von Miller, and ex-49ers linebacker Dee Winters (101 tackles last year). Meanwhile, versatile defensive back Jalen Thompson and first-round rookie Caleb Downs should shore up a secondary that has given up 63 passing TDs the last two years (tied with Cincinnati for most in the NFL).
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SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – AUGUST 15: Caleb Downs #13 of the Dallas Cowboys looks on during the first quarter during the NFL preseason game against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field on August 15, 2026 in Seattle, Washington.
(Jack Compton via Getty Images)
Also, I’m not high on the NFC East this year. Philadelphia is aging at key positions and due to regress. The New York Giants, under new coach John Harbaugh, appear to be two years away. And I expect Washington to be closer to what it was last year (5-12) than in 2024 (12-5).
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So let’s say the Cowboys go 4-2 within their division and 4-2 against six beatable non-NFC East opponents (Buccaneers, Cardinals, Jaguars and Titans at home; Houston and Indianapolis on the road). They would then only need to pick off two wins against Green Bay (road), Baltimore (in Brazil), San Francisco (home), Seattle (road) and the Rams (road) to hurdle their win total.
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Also worth noting: The last time the Cowboys failed to win at least 10 games in three straight seasons was 2011-2013.
Momentum is a massive intangible in the NFL. So, too, is the schedule and how it sets up. Not exactly breaking news, I know – but the obvious is worth stating in reference to the Denver Broncos’ 2026 win total.
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Last year, on the way to going 14-3 and capturing the AFC’s No. 1 seed, the Broncos gained steam while taking advantage of a highly favorable schedule.
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After knocking off the lowly Titans in Week 1, Denver suffered consecutive losses to the Colts (road) and Chargers (home) by a combined four points.
From there, the Broncos went 13-1. They won nine games against teams that were on vacation by mid-January (Chiefs twice, Raiders twice, Bengals, Jets, Giants, Cowboys and Commanders), and two against opponents that lost their only playoff game (Chargers and Eagles).
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Denver also defeated Houston (1-1 in the postseason) and lost to Jacksonville (another one-and-done playoff entrant).
In other words, the NFL schedule makers did the Broncos a solid last year. Spoiler alert: It won’t be a cakewalk in 2026.
After opening in Kansas City, Denver faces — in order — Jacksonville (home), the Rams (home), San Francisco (road), the Chargers (road) and Seattle (home). Good luck building early-season momentum.
Things ease up from there, with trips to Arizona, Carolina, Pittsburgh, Las Vegas and the Jets interspersed with home games against Kansas City, Las Vegas and Miami. But the finishing stretch is no joke: Buffalo (home), New England (road), the Chargers (home).
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Will Denver again field an elite defense? Absolutely. Will quarterback Bo Nix make more strides in his third year with coach Sean Payton? Probably.
Will it translate in the win-loss column like it did last fall? Doubtful.
I’m usually not a fan of bottom feeding when it comes to NFL win totals, because the margin for error is very thin. And I’m particularly leery of doing so when that bottom is as low as it can possibly be.
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Alas, every rule has an exception, and this is one such instance. Because the 2026 Cardinals not only figure to be as dreadful as the 2025 version that went 3-14, they might be historically dreadful — like the first 0-17 team in NFL history “dreadful.”
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Here’s what Arizona has to offer:
• A first-year head coach (39-year-old Mike LaFleur, who has zero head coaching experience at any level).
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• A journeyman first-string quarterback (34-year-old Jacoby Brissett, who is 20-45 over 65 starts in his 11-year career). And a journeyman second-string quarterback (Gardner Minshew). And a rookie third-string quarterback (third-round pick Carson Beck).
• A defense that allowed the sixth-most yards and fourth-most points a season ago (and did nothing to improve in the offseason).
Perhaps scariest of all is an absolutely merciless schedule. Not only do the Cardinals have to deal with the 49ers, Rams and Seahawks six times — after going 0-6 versus that trio last year — but five of those games fall in the first 10 weeks (including all three road trips).
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Now get a load of Arizona’s five early-season non-division opponents: Chargers (road), Giants (road), Lions, Broncos and Chiefs (road).
Arizona’s first “winnable” game? Maybe against visiting Washington in Week 11. That’s followed by four home games (Eagles, Jets, Raiders and 49ers) sandwiched around a Week 14 bye and a Week 16 trip to New Orleans. There’s a reason oddsmakers don’t have the Cardinals favored in a single game this season.
Can you find four victories? With this roster? I sure can’t.
Jamie Carragher praised the Gunners’ performance on Sky Sports.
He said: “Arsenal have got a swagger about them, showing their class and I think a 3-0 score line doesn’t do justice to how Arsenal have played.
“I think Coventry have got the toughest test they’ll have this season out of the way.”
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(Reuters)
Mike Jones21 August 2026 22:05
FT Arsenal 3-0 Coventry
So, we’ve got Arsenal sitting at the top of the table once again.
It’s a sight we’ve been used to over the last year and the Gunners certainly looked like they’ve picked up where they left off.
Martin Odegaard impressed again after his superb outing in the Community Shield.
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It could be a good season for the Arsenal captain should he stay fit.
Mike Jones21 August 2026 21:59
Full-time! Arsenal 3-0 Coventry
90+4 mins: The full-time whistle goes and that’s that.
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Mikel Arteta and his champions begin their title defence in fine fashion and without too much trouble.
They looked dangerous throughout and have the depth in their squad to replace their key players.
Goals from Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard kick off the season in winning ways and it’ll take a lot to rein in the Gunners if they maintain this kind of form.
Coventry got their first taste of top-flight football in 25 years. At times it was tough and they know they need to improve but Frank Lampard won’t be totally disheartened by the performance. There are things to work on and improve.
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Mike Jones21 August 2026 21:52
Arsenal 3-0 Coventry
90 mins: Four minutes of added time to play.
Mikel Merino, off the bench for Arsenal, shoots from just outside the area and forces a sharp save out of Rushworth who drops to the left and keeps the ball out.
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Mike Jones21 August 2026 21:48
Arsenal 3-0 Coventry
88 mins: Time is ticking by now. Fans of both teams can be seen heading towards the exits to avoid the queues once the full time whistle goes.
It’s been a professional outing for Arsenal. Three goals, a clean sheet and not much in the way of danger for them.
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Mike Jones21 August 2026 21:46
Arsenal 3-0 Coventry
85 mins: Gabriel takes a shot from around 25 yards but gets it nowhere near the target.
Arsenal are having fun now, Coventry not so much.
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Mike Jones21 August 2026 21:44
Arsenal 3-0 Coventry
81 mins: Inside the last 10 minutes now and perhaps there’s one more goal in this game.
If it comes it’ll come to Arsenal.
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White whips in a cross from the right wing and almost finds Calafiori on the opposite side of the pitch.
Coventry get a head to the ball and it rolls out for a throw in.
Calafiori is then subbed off in favour of Piero Hincapie.
Mike Jones21 August 2026 21:38
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Arsenal 3-0 Coventry
78 mins: A bit of momentum for Coventry.
They edge forward and send the ball out to the right wing. There’s no way into the box and they’re forced to backtrack to keep hold of the ball.
Mike Jones21 August 2026 21:36
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Arsenal 3-0 Coventry
75 mins: 15 minutes to play in this one and it’s still not the worst result for Coventry.
They need to improve and they need to do so quickly but coming up against the champions in your first fixture back in the top flight is an almost impossible task to manage.
Mike Jones21 August 2026 21:35
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Arsenal 3-0 Coventry
72 mins: The tempo has dropped from Arsenal but they’re in no rush or hurry.
They’re keeping possession and outpassing Coventry. Zubimendi sends the ball to Madueke who shimmies it across to Odegaard.
He shoots from the edge of the area but the effort is blocked.
The latest BetMGM bonus code CBSSPORTS gives new users $150 in bonus bets if their first bet wins or up to $1,500 in bonus bets if their qualifying wager loses. The offer depends on location. Week 2 of the NFL preseason continues on Friday with three games: Steelers vs. Jets, Jaguars vs. Panthers and Packers vs. Broncos. SportsLine expert Matt Severance has locked in his picks on the action, including backing the Jaguars to cover as 1.5-point underdogs and the Packers to cover as 6-point underdogs as part of Friday NFL best bets at BetMGM Sportsbook.
The SportsLine Projection Model simulates every MLB game 10,000 times and entered Week 22 of the MLB season on a sizzling 49-31 run on all top-rated MLB picks. It also excelled at making home run prop picks in 2025, returning nearly 30 units of profit if you had entered its picks at the best sportsbooks. Anyone following its MLB betting picks with sportsbook promos on betting apps could have seen strong returns.
Blue Jays (+1.5) vs. Yankees (-135)
The Yankees are starting the AL Cy Young favorite in Cam Schlittler, but despite his 2.19 ERA and 0.94 WHIP, New York is 0-4 in his last four starts. One of those losses came against the Blue Jays on Saturday in a 4-1 final despite Schlittler allowing just one run over 5⅓ innings. Toronto has been playing some of its best baseball recently, going 7-3 in its last 10 games, all coming against the top three teams in the AL East. Toronto has also covered a +1.5 spread in nine of its last 10 games, including all three contests against the Yankees last weekend, leading the model to project the Blue Jays to cover in 60% of simulations. Back the Blue Jays by claiming the latest BetMGM bonus code CBSSPORTS here:
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Jaguars (+1.5) vs. Panthers (-110)
“I pretty much need a significant reason why I wouldn’t take a home team getting points in the preseason,” SportsLine expert Matt Severance said. “It’s not like either side cares. And there are ties once in a blue moon … as in last week between the Patriots and Colts. It does appear we might get a matchup for a few series between former No. 1 overall picks in Bryce Young and Trevor Lawrence. Jags coach Liam Coen has been on the fence, but Lawrence previously has played in two games per year. This marks a third straight away game (including HOF in Canton) for the Panthers. That has to mean something. Jacksonville is eyeing a third 3-0 preseason in the past four years.” Back the Jaguars by claiming the latest BetMGM bonus code CBSSPORTS here:
Packers (+6) vs. Broncos (-110)
“These numbers are clear overreactions to the Broncos crushing the Falcons, 27-7, in Week 1, but maybe Denver’s overall roster is that much better than Atlanta’s,” Severance said. “I would put Green Bay on the same overall tier in the NFL or at least close. Packers coach Matt LaFleur is expected to play his starters a bit. The Pack were one of two teams without a touchdown in Week 1 of the preseason. Perhaps that’s motivation? Jordan Love didn’t look good in his brief action. The big news is the return of injury of Broncos QB Bo Nix, but he will be kept in “Lanters” bubble wrap for his series or maybe two. If Nix scrambles on the second play, Sean Payton might pull him. Denver has the NFL’s longest active preseason winning streak at eight in a row, but six points?” Back the Packers by claiming the latest BetMGM bonus code CBSSPORTS here:
Dmitry Bivol’s next world title defence is heading to purse bids after talks with former super-middleweight champion Callum Smith failed to produce an agreement.
“Please be advised that, as the parties [Bivol and Smith] were unable to reach terms within the negotiation period established by the WBO, the matter will now proceed to Purse Bid proceedings, as previously advised. The Purse Bid will be conducted on Thursday, August 27, 2026, at the WBO Main Offices in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and will be live-streamed through the WBO’s official digital platforms.
“All applicable terms and conditions, including the respective purse split, will be formally announced through the WBO’s official Purse Bid Notice to be issued later today.”
Bivol, meanwhile, returned from a lengthy spell of inactivity in May to comfortably outpoint IBF mandatory challenger Michael Eifert. Most felt that he would then pursue a trilogy against Artur Beterbiev, with the pair currently level at one win apiece following their two meetings, even if it did mean dropping the WBO belt.
Those plans have not materialised, and the Russian technician will look to keep hold of all three of his belts against Liverpool’s Smith. Both men are represented by Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing.
GIO Stadium will play host to Friday’s
Round 25 NRL game between Canberra Raiders and
Brisbane Broncos. The game kicks off at 6:00 pm with Canberra Raiders heading into the game as favourites with the bookmakers. Continue reading for our in-depth preview of the Canberra Raiders vs.
Brisbane Broncos
game and give you our free tips and bets.
Canberra kept its slim finals prospects alive with a spirited 24-20 win over Cronulla and now returns home for Josh Papali’i’s final appearance at GIO Stadium. The Raiders have won five times across their past seven matches and regain Simi Sasagi, while Ata Mariota starts at lock and Corey Horsburgh returns on the bench. Brisbane arrives after a 40-6 defeat to the Warriors, its 12th loss in 13 games, and must replace the injured Reece Walsh with Hayze Perham. Ben Hunt also returns at halfback. Brisbane has won three of the past four meetings, including last year’s golden-point thriller in Canberra, but its recent defensive decline gives the Raiders a clear opportunity to control the middle and finish their home campaign strongly.
Canberra Raiders vs Brisbane Broncos Teams
Raiders team: 1. Kaeo Weekes 2. Jed Stuart 3. Simi Sasagi 4. Matthew Timoko 5. Xavier Savage 6. Ethan Strange 7. Ethan Sanders 8. Josh Papali’i 9. Owen Pattie 10. Joseph Tapine 11. Zac Hosking 12. Matt Nicholson 13. Ata Mariota 14. Tom Starling 15. Joseph Roddy 16. Corey Horsburgh 17. Daine Laurie 18. Vena Patuki-Case 19. Savelio Tamale 20. Coby Black 21. Sebastian Kris 22. Jayden Brailey
Broncos team: 1. Hayze Perham 2. Josiah Karapani 3. Kotoni Staggs 4. Deine Mariner 5. Grant Anderson 6. Ezra Mam 7. Ben Hunt 8. Xavier Willison 9. Billy Walters 10. Payne Haas 11. Jaiyden Hunt 12. Jordan Riki 13. Patrick Carrigan 14. Blake Mozer 15. Aublix Tawha 16. Jack Gosiewski 17. Va’a Semu 18. Thomas Duffy 19. Gehamat Shibasaki 20. Ben Talty 21. Jesse Arthars 22. Luke Gale
Serie A is finally back! The 2026-2027 Serie A season will kick off this weekend in Italy, with Inter, the 2025-2026 Scudetto winners, looking to defend the title in the new season. AC Milan, their cross-city rivals, made some key signings in the summer after replacing the coach and the whole club hierarchy after the disappointing end of the last campaign, and appointed former Manchester United coach Ruben Amorim to lead the new cycle. Six teams replaced their coaches, including Napoli, which saw Antonio Conte leave the Azzurri after two seasons and appointed former AC Milan and Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri. Let’s take a look at our power rankings ahead of the upcoming season:
1. Inter
The 2025-2026 Serie A champions are still the favorites to replicate the success of the past season. They lost a key player in Denzel Dumfries, who joined Real Madrid, but replaced him with Djed Spence and signed other players like John Stones and Curtis Jones who can help Cristian Chivu win another Scudetto. Overall, they have a stronger squad compared to the one that won the most recent Serie A title.
2. AC Milan
The Rossoneri spent big money in the summer to support American Christian Pulisic and signed striker Goncalo Ramos from PSG who became the highest paid player in the history of the club, after Gerry Cardinale’s side spent over $70 million to sign the Portuguese striker. On top of him, they also signed Mario Gila from Lazio for around $20 million and Diego Moreira from Strasbourg for more than $60 million. However, the biggest decision was to appoint Ruben Amorim to replace Massimiliano Allegri, who failed to bring the Rossoneri back to Champions League soccer.
3. Napoli
It didn’t take long time for Allegri to find a new club as Napoli decided to hire him after Antonio Conte’s decision to leave the Azzurri ahead of the summer. Allegri, who has signed a three-year deal with the Italian club, will be expected to improve Napoli’s performances, particularly in the Champions League, as demanded by club owner Aurelio De Laurentiis. Napoli have a strong squad, but last season their campaign was severely affected by injuries.
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4. AS Roma
The side coached by Gian Piero Gasperini clinched a Champions League spot at the end of a successful campaign, but it will now be much more complicated to replicate the same success. They have a chance to make a deep run, and the roster is also strong enough to achieve the targets requested by the fan base and the ownership. Winning a trophy, maybe the Coppa Italia, could be a major milestone for the new project, now entering its second year, led by the former Atalanta manager.
5. Como
Como were one of the biggest surprises of the 2025–26 season but maybe not entirely unexpectedly. Their fourth-place finish and historic qualification for the Champions League were remarkable, but the team led by Cesc Fabregas wants more. They re-signed Nico Paz from Real Madrid for $60 million, arguably the most important Serie A signing of the summer. The only doubt about them is how they will deal with the two major competitions at the same time, but watch out for them, once again.
6. Juventus
Despite confirming head coach Luciano Spalletti for at least another season, everything has changed again at the club with a new CEO in Giovanni Carnevali, an experienced Italian director who can lead the new cycle. Some of the signings were interesting, such as the one of Kerim Alajbegovic from Bayer Leverkusen or the one of Randal Kolo Muani from PSG. Others, like the one of Guglielmo Vicario on loan from Tottenham as the new starting goalkeeper, are not what we expected.
7. Fiorentina
I strongly believe they will be the surprise of the season, after risking relegation last year. Former Tottenham and Juventus director Fabio Paratici is leading the sporting project and has signed multiple talents, starting with Franco Mastantuono on loan from Real Madrid, and appointed a young talented coach like Fabio Grosso, who previously coached Sassuolo in the Italian first division. Fiorentina might finally be back.
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8. Atalanta
Nothing against the club and the job they’ve done over the past years, but when you sign a coach like Maurizio Sarri you can expect your team to perform more on the long term, missing out some key points in the first part of the season. This is why I think they can aim for European soccer, but it won’t be that easy.
9. Genoa
Another team I think will do well. Under Daniele De Rossi’s management, Genoa were a surprising side in the second part of the season, and in his full campaign in charge I think there’s a big chance to see them as one of the surprises of the Serie A season.
10. Bologna
It will be difficult for them after Vincenzo Italiano decided to leave the Italian side to join Besiktas. They hired a coach like Domenico Tedesco, who will make his Serie A debut this weekend: A risky choice.
11. Udinese
One of those teams that always seem to find themselves in the same position at the start of the season: unlikely to face a relegation battle, but equally unlikely to challenge for a European spot.
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12. Torino
I’m curious to see the impact of Ignazio Abate in Serie A after bringing Juve Stabia, a team that was placed under judicial administration as prosecutors stated the Serie B club was used as a tool by the local Camorra mafia clan, to the playoffs last season; now he has his first big chance in the Italian top flight.
13. Sassuolo
Giovanni Carnevali, the former club CEO and the mastermind behind the success of the Neroverdi in the past years, has left his position and joined Juventus this summer. While Fabio Grosso left the club to take over at Fiorentina and most of the key players stayed, the club appointed Alberto Aquilani as his successor. Aquilani, who led Catanzaro to the Serie B playoff final in June, is widely regarded as one of the most talented young managers in Italy.
14. Parma
The Crociati survived the Italian first division under Carlos Cuesta last season, the youngest coach in the league and aim to do the same this year despite selling some key players, such as Zion Suzuki and Gabriel Strefezza.
15. Cagliari
The first season under Vincenzo Pisacane was a success overall as the team managed to avoid relegation, and this season we can expect more from them, but it won’t be easier.
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16. Lazio
There are not many hopes around Lazio this season after hiring Gennaro Gattuso as the new head coach. The Biancocelesti had another disappointing summer transfer window, as they saw some key players leaving such as Mario Gila who joined AC Milan and had to face a net-zero transfer window for the summer 2026 session. In this worrying financial environment, a tumble down the table is a real possibility
17. Venezia
Their plans for a new stadium are already underway, but if you get the chance to go and watch a match at the current Penzo Stadium, do it. It’s an unforgettable experience.
18. Monza
The club made some signings in the summer, but none of them are capable of keeping the team in the first division. Am I too drastic? Probably not.
19. Lecce
Eusebio Di Francesco finally managed to keep Lecce in the top flight after suffering relegation twice in two years with Frosinone and Venezia. However, I think keeping them up this time will be an even bigger challenge.
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20. Frosinone
This is what Massimiliano Alvini, the head coach, said about the transfer window. “I wasn’t involved. As the coach, you have to understand the characteristics of the new signings. It will take time, months, to fully integrate them.” I don’t see them avoiding relegation, do you?
Luciano Spalletti is making last-minute changes to his Juventus squad as the manager looks to ensure his team is in top shape when the transfer window closes.
The Bianconeri have been one of the top teams in the country in recent months, and they surprised most fans and neutrals when they missed out on Champions League qualification. Juve remain one of the top teams in Italian football, and their fans hope they can compete for the Scudetto this campaign.
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That is why the club have backed Spalletti as strongly as they have in recent weeks. The manager wants more players, even though he is happy and grateful for those he has been allowed to sign so far. He also wants the squad’s deadwood to be offloaded before the window closes.
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Spalletti wants squad depth
Calciomercato says that, in an ideal world, Spalletti hopes to have at least two quality players in each position in the squad when the transfer window ends, and Juve are currently working towards that objective.
The manager wants Juventus to have enough quality and depth to compete throughout the campaign. Strengthening every area of the squad would give him greater flexibility when selecting his team and allow the Bianconeri to cope with the demands of the season.
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Juve have already made several additions, but Spalletti believes further changes are required. The club must therefore balance incoming transfers with departures as they work to create the squad the manager wants.
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Juventus ready for more business
The Bianconeri want to support their manager as much as possible, and they are prepared to allow him to build his ideal squad. That means supporters can expect to see more activity before the transfer window closes.
Spalletti will hope the club can complete the necessary deals and provide him with at least two quality options in every position. At the same time, Juventus need to move on players who are no longer part of the manager’s plans.
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The final days of the window could therefore be busy for the Bianconeri. Juventus have already shown their willingness to strengthen the squad, and they now appear ready to make further changes in an effort to give Spalletti the depth and quality he believes are necessary to compete for the Scudetto.
Nov 22, 2025; Tucson, Arizona, USA; Arizona Wildcats running back Ismail Mahdi (21) against the Baylor Bears at Casino Del Sol Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals handed the NCAA a temporary victory on Friday, issuing a stay of a preliminary injunction that granted athletes from the high school class of 2022 an extra year of eligibility.
The 2-1 decision by the Tenth Circuit came after the NCAA appealed a Colorado federal judge’s temporary injunction allowing the 2022 athletes to play under the same rules as players currently in college. In June, the NCAA changed its rules to allow athletes to play five seasons within a five-year eligibility window, provided age requirements are met, but the rule was not applied retroactively.
The NCAA informed schools on Friday that the rules that applied before the Colorado decision were in effect.
The Colorado judge granted the injunction on July 31 in the federal class-action lawsuit filed by Brock Wisne, a Northern Colorado basketball player who said the NCAA violated antitrust law by barring him from playing a fifth season.
“The Tenth Circuit’s decision to stay the preliminary injunction issued by a Colorado federal district court judge in Wisne permits Division I to return to the status quo before the district court intervened,” an NCAA statement said. “Effective immediately, the age-based eligibility rules will be implemented as the Division I membership intended.
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“Class members who were allowed to compete because of the Wisne injunction are no longer eligible to compete.”
Courts in states including California, Georgia, Louisiana and Tennessee have ruled in favor of athletes named in lawsuits. Those athletes will not be impacted by the Colorado ruling.
An Ohio court also issued a temporary injunction that was stayed by the Ohio Court of Appeals.
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“The Association will separately continue to defend other similar putative class-action lawsuits and the state court cases that have been filed by former student-athletes seeking additional eligibility,” the NCAA said in its statement. “We are encouraged by the Ohio Court of Appeals’ decision to stay the first of those injunctions pending our appeal.”
The ruling by the Tenth Circuit means high-profile football players, including Arizona running back Ismail Mahdi and defensive linemen Stephen Daley and Kellan Wyatt of Indiana, currently are ineligible to play in the 2026 season. They had been practicing with their teams but were not protected by state rulings.
FIFA has opened a disciplinary case against Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan following the Pharaohs’ 2026 FIFA World Cup clash against Argentina.
Hassan is being investigated over a number of statements he made before and after the match. FIFA is looking into whether his comments broke its disciplinary rules.
One of the issues being examined is Hassan’s public support for Palestine and his claims that Argentina received favourable treatment because of Lionel Messi’s status, commercial interests and the team’s position as world champions.
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The Egypt coach also alleged that his team was deliberately treated unfairly during the tournament. He suggested that both external and internal factors had influenced the outcome of the match.
Hassan reportedly went further by saying there was “no justice” in the tournament and questioning whether the match had been played in line with FIFA’s principles of fair play and respect.
FIFA has made the disciplinary case file and investigative report available through its Legal Portal. The matter is now awaiting a formal decision from the relevant disciplinary body.
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The outcome could determine whether Hassan faces a sanction over his comments surrounding the Argentina-Egypt encounter.
Feb 21, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Sean Strickland (red gloves) fights Anthony Hernandez (blue gloves) in a middleweight bout during UFC Fight Night at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
Hernandez enters as the No. 6-ranked middleweight looking to bounce back from a decision loss to newly-minted two-time champion Sean Strickland, a fight he was competitive in before eventually falling short. Prior to that setback, “Fluffy” had run off eight straight wins, including finishes over Roman Dolidze, Roman Kopylov, and Michel Pereira, plus a signature victory over Brendan Allen, a resume that had him on the doorstep of a title shot. Standing across from him is No. 12 Rodrigues, a former BJJ world champion who has quietly built momentum as one of the division’s most physically punishing strikers.
Rodrigues insists this matchup was designed specifically to “neutralize” Hernandez’s wrestling-heavy approach and believes a win here keeps him on a direct path to gold. Whoever leaves Sacramento victorious likely re-enters the 185-pound title conversation almost immediately, which gives this main event a genuine sense of urgency rather than just a routine ranked bout.
Co-Main And Featured Bouts
Mar 21, 2026; London,UNITED KINGDOM; Roman Dolidze (red gloves) fights Christian Leroy Duncan (blue gloves) during UFC Fight Night at O2 Arena. Mandatory Credit: Peter van den Berg-Imagn Images
The co-main sees Reinier de Ridder drop back down to light heavyweight after his ambitious, grueling stretch at middleweight, five fights in twelve months at 35 years old, finally caught up with him through back-to-back losses. He meets Roman Dolidze, who was himself pushed out of 185 pounds by consecutive defeats to Hernandez and Christian Leroy Duncan, fights in which he looked uncharacteristically hesitant. Both men are searching for a reset in a new weight class, and the tactical question is whether de Ridder’s grappling pedigree translates cleanly against a fresher, hungrier Dolidze, or if this becomes the most clinch-filled fight of all time.
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Rounding out the main card, Serghei Spivac takes on No. 11 heavyweight contender Vitor Petrino, who is riding a three-fight win streak since moving up from light heavyweight. Spivac has faced elite competition like Tom Aspinall and Ciryl Gane and brings serious submission threat off his back, while Petrino’s power and physicality make this a legitimate style clash between a savvy veteran and a rising talent still learning the nuances of the heavyweight division. MarQuel Mederos meets Mason Jones in a lightweight scrap, Carli Judice takes on unbeaten Jeisla Chaves at women’s flyweight, and Anthony Wint’s undefeated heavyweight run gets tested by Terrance Chatman.
What To Watch For On The Prelims
Sep 9, 2023; Sydney, NSW, AUSTRALIA; Nasrat Haqparast (red gloves) fights Landon Quinones (blue gloves) during UFC 293 at Qudos Bank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jasmin Frank-USA TODAY Sports
The Paramount+ prelims are loaded with finishing potential. Nasrat Haqparast, a durable, high-volume lightweight veteran, opens against gritty striker Chris Padilla in a bout that should set an aggressive tone for the night. Kennedy Nzechukwu’s knockout power against Shamil Gaziev’s size and durability at heavyweight is a classic boom-or-bust matchup, while veteran featherweight Jamall Emmers faces surging Brazilian prospect Lerryan Douglas in a stylistic clash of experience versus athleticism. Keep an eye on prospects Gauge Young and Jeisla Chaves as both are the kind of young, aggressive fighters the UFC loves to fast-track, and a statement performance in Sacramento could put either on the radar for bigger bookings soon.
Manchester’s reputation as a footballing hotbed would likely be central to any bid
Andy Burnham is looking into a bid to bring the men’s football World Cup to British soil for the first time since 1966, it has emerged.
During a meeting at Number 10 North in Manchester on Friday, the Prime Minister reportedly told colleagues he is looking into how the UK could host the prestigious tournament, with talks said to be underway with the country’s football associations.
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It is said to form part of a growing push by former Greater Manchester mayor Mr Burnham, a big football fan and Everton season ticket holder, to use major sporting events to drive investment, tourism and regeneration beyond London.
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The World Cup plan is being considered alongside the previously reported ambition to bring the Olympics to the north, according to The i.
It would be the first time it has been hosted on these shores since the 1966 tournament, which is also the Three Lions’ only ever men’s World Cup triumph.
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The next edition of the tournament, which concluded in the US, Mexico, and Canada this summer, is being held in Spain, Morocco, and Portugal in 2030, with Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay also hosting matches to mark the tournament’s centenary.
Whilst Saudi Arabia have been chosen as hosts for the 2034 tournament, meaning 2038 or 2042 are the next available editions which the UK and other countries could bid for.
Manchester’s reputation as a global football hotbed would likely make it central to any bid proposal.
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Manchester United have said they hope their proposed new 100,000 seater stadium on land just 350 metres away from their current home, would be ready in time for the 2035 Women’s World Cup, which is being held in the UK for the first time.
The UK and Republic of Ireland are hosting the men’s European Championships in 2028 with the newly-expanded Etihad Stadium one of the stadiums, however the current trafford>Old Trafford was overlooked. Both United and City bosses would likely be extremely keen to part of any World Cup bid.
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