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Josh Frey’s 2026 NFL Draft Rankings: Running Backs

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Nov 8, 2025; South Bend, Indiana, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back Jeremiyah Love (4) runs the ball against the Navy Midshipmen during the second half at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Michael Caterina-Imagn Images

The NFL Combine has officially arrived, and things are heating up as we hurl towards the 2026 NFL Draft this April.

One of the more interesting positions in this year’s draft comes at the running back position. It’s a class that has a star at the top, a solid second tier of players, and then a third tier that very well could become immediate contributors at the NFL level. Here are my initial 2026 NFL Draft running back rankings.

1. Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame

Nov 15, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back Jeremiyah Love (4) runs after a catch against the Pittsburgh Panthers during the second quarter at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

There is very little that Jeremiyah Love can’t do, which is why he lands at the No. 1 spot of this list. It’s not particularly close, either.

Love’s athletic ability is elite and jumps off the screen every time he takes the field. His speed is about as untouchable as it gets, and he gets up to that top speed in a hurry out of the backfield. On top of that ridiculous athletic ability while carrying the ball, the Notre Dame product can immediately be plugged into an NFL offense’s passing scheme. He caught 25 of his 28 targets either behind the line of scrimmage or from 0-9 yards, and he averaged 9.7 yards after the catch.

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The one area where Love can be knocked is his ability in pass protection when he does stay near the pocket on passing downs. At 6 feet tall and 214 pounds, he isn’t particularly built to hold up as a blocker, but with his receiving ability, he shouldn’t be in this role too much to begin with.

2. Jonah Coleman, Washington

2026 NFL Draft running backs
Oct 4, 2025; College Park, Maryland, USA; Washington Huskies running back Jonah Coleman (1) carries the ball against the Maryland Terrapins at SECU Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Sabau-Imagn Images

Jonah Coleman is a bowling ball at the running back position at 5’9″ and 228 pounds, and that makes him a very difficult player for opposing defenses to tackle.

Coleman is a very physical player and absorbs contact as well as any running back in this draft class. He is very patient behind the line of scrimmage, is a great workhorse back, and he can also contribute in pass protection and as a receiver. He caught 31 passes this past season with the Washington Huskies. On top of that, his ball security is elite. He fumbled just twice throughout his collegiate career on 639 touches.

Coleman’s ceiling is limited by his lack of breakaway speed, meaning he probably won’t ever be a competitor to lead the NFL in rushing yards. Still, he should have a long, productive NFL career and could go down as the modern day version of Frank Gore if he lives up to his potential.

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3. Emmett Johnson, Nebraska

Nov 28, 2025; Lincoln, Nebraska, USA; Nebraska Cornhuskers running back Emmett Johnson (21) runs against Iowa Hawkeyes defensive back Zach Lutmer (6) during the third quarter at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dylan Widger-Imagn Images

It’s been awhile since Nebraska has had a high end running back, but Emmett Johnson changed the tides in the backfield this season for the Cornhuskers. He became the first Nebraska running back with 1000+ yards since Devine Ozigbo in 2018.

Johnson thrives in zone running schemes, and he was one of the most explosive playmakers out of the backfield in all of college football this season. His 36 carries of 10+ yards tied for sixth in the FBS. He also led all running backs in the FBS with 46 receptions.

At 5’11” and 200 pounds, Johnson has a sturdy frame to along with outstanding breakaway speed and ability to change directions on a dime. He needs to get better as a blocker if he wants to truly help an NFL passing game, but with the receiving ability, he can get away with being a checkdown option (or down the field receiver option) more than a blocking presence.

4. Jadarian Price, Notre Dame

Notre Dame running back Jadarian Price (24) celebrates with wide receiver Malachi Fields (0) after a Price touchdown in the first half of a NCAA football game against Syracuse at Notre Dame Stadium on Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025, in South Bend. © MICHAEL CLUBB/SOUTH BEND TRIBUNE / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images.

While Jeremiyah Love stole much of the spotlight at Notre Dame this past year, Jadarian Price should not be overlooked heading into this draft. In an offense that had a top Heisman candidate in Love, Price still managed to get 120 carries in 2024 and 113 carries in 2025.

There’s a reason for that: Price is a very effective player. Every movement Price makes in the backfield seems effortless and entirely intentional. He has a terrific ability to make cuts in the blink of an eye, leaving defenses with virtually no time to react, or he’ll be gone.

That being said, there are some questions that could impact his placement in the draft. We’ve never seen him be a lead running back at the collegiate level, which is a very unique position for a player who is widely considered to be a Day 2 selection. He could also have some trouble staying on the field on third downs, particularly in passing situations. He only caught 15 passes over the course of his three years at Notre Dame.

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5. Kaytron Allen, Penn State

Nov 29, 2025; Piscataway, New Jersey, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions running back Kaytron Allen (13) reacts after a rushing touchdown during the first half against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights at SHI Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

Like Coleman, Kaytron Allen has a very sturdy frame that keeps his legs churning through defenders. Of his 1303 rushing yards this season, 792 of them came after contact. That was the 16th-most in all of the FBS this past year.

Allen (5’11”, 229 pounds) has been a very productive player at Penn State since he arrived in 2022, totaling at least 167 carries in all four of his seasons with the Nittany Lions. He’s proven time and time again that he can be a workhorse, and a very explosive burst allows him to get to the second level of a defense in a hurry.

However, he also lacks that true home run speed like Coleman. Unlike Coleman, though, Allen also has struggled as a receiver, which may force him off the field on third down passing situations. In 2025, he caught 18 passes for just 68 yards.

6. Demond Claiborne, Wake Forest

Oct 11, 2025; Corvallis, Oregon, USA; Wake Forest Demon Deacons running back Demond Claiborne (1) runs the ball during the second half against the Oregon State Beavers at Reser Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Craig Strobeck-Imagn Images

Demond Claiborne is a home run hitter at the running back position. He has breakaway speed that few can keep up with in space, and he possesses outstanding lateral quickness, forcing missed tackles in open space.

On top of the abilities on offense, Claiborne can also contribute on special teams as a kick returner. He took two kickoffs to the house during his collegiate career before giving up the role during the 2025 season.

However, at 5’10” and 195 pounds, he doesn’t really have the build to be a lead back at the NFL level, which likely will limit his ceiling.

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7. Mike Washington, Arkansas

Nov 15, 2025; Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Mike Washington (4) runs against LSU Tigers safety Tamarcus Cooley (0) during the first half at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

Mike Washington has a real chance to be one of the steals of this draft class if he ends up falling into the middle rounds. He has elite size at 6’2″ and 228 pounds, and he almost certainly will threaten 4.4 speed in the 40 yard dash at the NFL Combine.

Washington has great vision in the backfield, patiently waiting for lanes to open up before using that explosive ability to pick up yards in a hurry with big strides. He also has a knack for falling forward which is what you want to see in a running back prospect to pick up an extra yard or two.

So what gives? Why is he not a top 5 running back in this class? Well, the fumble issues could be catastrophic for him at the NFL level. He fumbled 10 times during his five-year collegiate career, including seven fumbles over the past two seasons.

8. Le’Veon Moss, Texas A&M

Dec 20, 2025; College Station, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies running back Le’Veon Moss (8) runs the ball as Miami Hurricanes defensive back Ethan O’Connor (24) defends during the second half at Kyle Field. Mandatory Credit: Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images

Like Mike Washington, Le’Veon Moss has the tools to be an NFL running back. He has a punishing running style and pushes through contact to gain extra yards (big, physical guys are a theme of this RB class if you haven’t noticed).

His balance and patience in the backfield is a notable strength that draws some comparison to Le’Veon Bell, and when he does decide to burst through a hole, he does it with explosive speed and power.

All that being said, injury troubles have followed Moss throughout his collegiate career. In four years, he never managed to play 10 games at Texas A&M, suffering serious ankle and knee injuries in his career. If he stays healthy, Moss can surpass this draft ranking, but it’s hard to bank too much on that right now.

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Editor’s Note: Information from Pro Football Focus and Sports Reference CFB helped with this article.

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Josh Frey is a senior writer at both PurplePTSD.com and VikingsTerritory.com, with a fascination for the NFL Draft. To … More about Josh Frey

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Orioles contact-less lineup tries for better results vs. Guardians

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MLB: Arizona Diamondbacks at Baltimore OriolesApr 14, 2026; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Baltimore Orioles outfielder Colton Cowser (17) reacts to an inside pitch during the eighth inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Mitch Stringer-Imagn Images

There was a glaring lack of contact from Baltimore Orioles’ hitters on Saturday.

The Orioles had four hits — two of them homers — while striking out a stunning 16 times.

Baltimore will look to have their bats smack the ball more often in Sunday’s finale of a four-game series against the host Cleveland Guardians.

The Guardians have won two of the first three games, including Saturday’s 4-2 victory when right-hander Gavin Williams dominated the Orioles.

Williams struck out 11 in seven innings and allowed one run, three hits and one walk. He leads the majors with 40 strikeouts.

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“That’s not the biggest goal for me,” Williams said of the strikeouts. “I’m just trying to help the team win games. It’s cool, but I don’t think it’s necessary to have to punch that many people out. I’m just trying to win games.”

Meanwhile, Baltimore’s Pete Alonso and Colton Cowser struck out in all four at-bats and Dylan Beavers fanned three times on Saturday.

That breeze inside the ballpark wasn’t necessarily coming from the nearby lake.

Orioles manager Craig Albernaz pointed to Williams’ dominance as the reason for Alonso and Cowser’s difficulties.

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“They couldn’t see the breaking ball early enough to either make an adjustment or hold off on it,” Albernaz said.

Alonzo was the club’s marquee offseason acquisition and signed a five-year, $155 million contract. But so far, he has fizzled with a .208 average, two homers and eight RBIs to go with 26 strikeouts in 78 at-bats.

Cowser has yet to go deep and is batting .178 with 16 strikeouts in 45 at-bats. The fifth overall pick in the 2021 draft continues to struggle with big-league pitching.

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“Colton, he’s our guy, and he has to figure it out how he wants to approach guys and what he’s trying to feel,” Albernaz said. “But with Colton at the plate, he’s dangerous. He’s a guy where, if he’s not feeling great, he can still get one pitch and do damage on, and that’s something where we feel very confident in.”

Leody Taveras and Gunnar Henderson hit the homers for Baltimore’s runs.

All of Cleveland’s runs also came on homers on Saturday. Brayan Rocchio smacked a three-run homer and Bo Naylor hit a solo blast.

Rocchio said a more patient approach is paying off for him. He has three homers in 63 at-bats after having five in 344 at-bats in 2025.

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“That’s impressive for me, too,” Rocchio said. “Last year, I was struggling at hitting. Now I’m able to help the team with my at-bats and to see more pitches is pretty cool.”

Left-hander Joey Cantillo (1-0, 2.61 ERA) will start the finale for the Guardians.

Cantillo, 26, received a no-decision against the St. Louis Cardinals on Tuesday when he gave up two runs and five hits over six innings. Both runs came on solo homers.

Cantillo is 1-1 with a 4.50 ERA in four appearances (two starts) against Baltimore. Cowser is 2-for-4 with one strikeout against Cantillo.

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Left-hander Trevor Rogers (2-1, 3.04) will take the mound for Baltimore.

Rogers, 28, was roughed up by the Arizona Diamondbacks on Tuesday and took the loss. He gave up four runs and nine hits over 4 2/3 innings.

Rogers is 0-1 with a 5.79 ERA in two career starts against the Guardians. Rhys Hoskins is 9-for-21 (.429) with four homers off Rogers while David Fry (1-for-4) also has taken him deep.

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–Field Level Media

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All-time Top 5 NFL Draft Picks for Schools in the West

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  By SuperWest Sports Staff


Atotal of 78 players from schools in the West have been taken in the Top 5 overall picks in the NFL Draft since it premiered in 1936.

USC leads the way with 20 top picks, followed by Stanford with 8, and Cal and Oregon with 7 each.

We have included UTEP on this list because, beginning in 2026, the Miners are playing in the Mountain West, and the City of El Paso is in a direct line with Albuquerque and west of Boulder, Fort Collins, and Cheyenne.

Here is a table of all the players from the region who have been drafted in the top five.

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There is a breakdown by program at the bottom.


Top 5 Overall NFL Draft Picks for Programs from the West
Year Pick No. Player College NFL Team Position
2025 2 Travis Hunter Colorado Jaguars WR/CB
2024 1 Caleb Williams USC Bears QB
2022 5 Kayvon Thibodeaux Oregon Giants DE
2021 2 Zach Wilson BYU Jets QB
2018 3 Sam Darnold USC Jets QB
2017 3 Solomon Thomas Stanford 49ers DE
2016 1 Jared Goff Cal Rams QB
2015 2 Marcus Mariota Oregon Titans QB
2013 3 Dion Jordan Oregon Dolphins DE
2013 5 Ezekiel Ansah BYU Lions DE
2012 1 Andrew Luck Stanford Colts QB
2012 4 Matt Kalil USC Vikings OT
2009 5 Mark Sanchez USC Jets QB
2006 2 Reggie Bush USC Saints RB
2005 1 Alex Smith Utah 49ers QB
2003 1 Carson Palmer USC Bengals QB
2002 1 David Carr Fresno St Texans QB
2002 3 Joey Harrington Oregon Lions QB
1999 3 Akili Smith Oregon Bengals QB
1998 2 Ryan Leaf WSU Chargers QB
1997 2 Darrell Russell USC Raiders DT
1996 1 Keyshawn Johnson USC Jets WR
1996 4 Jonathan Ogden UCLA Ravens OT
1995 2 Tony Boselli USC Jaguars OT
1995 4 Michael Westbrook Colorado Redskins WR
1994 2 Marshall Faulk SDSU Colts RB
1994 4 Willie McGinest USC Patriots DE
1993 1 Drew Bledsoe WSU Patriots QB
1992 1 Steve Emtman Washington Colts DE
1991 2 Eric Turner UCLA Browns DB
1990 5 Junior Seau USC Chargers LB
1989 1 Troy Aikman UCLA Cowboys QB
1985 5 Duane Bickett USC Colts LB
1983 1 John Elway Stanford Colts QB
1982 3 Chip Banks USC Browns LB
1982 5 Jim McMahon BYU Bears QB
1981 3 Freeman McNeil UCLA Jets RB
1981 4 Kenny Easley UCLA Seahawks DB
1980 3 Anthony Munoz USC Bengals OT
1979 2 Mike Bell CSU Chiefs DE
1979 3 Jack Thompson WSU Bengals QB
1977 1 Ricky Bell USC Buccaneers RB
1977 4 Marvin Powell USC Jets OT
1977 5 Gary Jeter USC Giants DE
1976 3 Chuck Muncie Cal Saints RB
1976 5 Mike Haynes ASU Patriots DB
1975 1 Steve Bartkowski Cal Falcons QB
1974 2 Bo Matthews Colorado Chargers RB
1972 2 Sherman White Cal Bengals DE
1972 4 Ahmad Rashad Oregon Cardinals RB
1971 1 Jim Plunkett Stanford Patriots QB
1971 3 Dan Pastorini Santa Clara Oilers QB
1971 4 J.D. Hill ASU Bills WR
1969 1 O.J. Simpson USC Bills RB
1968 1 Ron Yary USC Vikings OT
1968 5 Fred Carr UTEP Packers LB
1965 5 Craig Morton Cal Cowboys QB
1964 3 Charley Taylor ASU Redskins WR
1964 5 Pete Beathard USC Lions QB
1963 1 Terry Baker Ore St Rams QB
1962 3 Merlin Olson USU Rams DT
1961 4 Marlin McKeever USC Rams LB
1959 2 Dick Bass Pacific Rams FB
1957 2 Jon Arnett USC Rams HB
1957 3 John Brodie Stanford 49ers QB
1956 1 Gary Glick CSU Steelers DB
1955 1 George Shaw Oregon Colts QB
1954 1 Bobby Garrett Stanford Browns QB
1953 4 Johnny Olszewski Cal Cardinals FB
1952 2 Les Richter Cal Yanks LB
1952 3 Ollie Matson San Francisco Cardinals RB
1949 5 Stan Heath Nevada Packers QB
1947 4 Cal Rossi UCLA Redskins RB
1942 3 Pete Kmetovic Stanford Eagles HB
1941 3 Norm Standlee Stanford Bears FB
1941 4 Rudy Mucha Washington Rams OG
1938 4 Whizzer White Colorado Steelers TB
1937 2 Ed Goddard WSU Dodgers RB


Breakdown of Top 5 Picks by Program
Top 5 Picks School Year(s)
20 USC 2012, 2009, 2006, 2003, 1997, 1996, 1995, 1994, 1990, 1985, 1982, 1980, 1977, 1969, 1968, 1964, 1961, 1957
8 Stanford 2017, 2012, 1983, 1971, 1957, 1954, 1942, 1941
7 Cal 2016, 1976, 1975, 1972, 1965, 1953, 1952
7 Oregon 2022, 2015, 2013, 2002, 1999, 1972, 1955
6 UCLA 1996, 1991, 1989, 1981, 1947
4 Colorado 2025, 1995, 1974, 1938
4 WSU 1998, 1993, 1979, 1937
3 ASU 1976, 1971, 1964
3 BYU 2021, 2013, 1982
2 CSU 1979, 1956
2 Washington 1992, 1941
1 Fresno St 2022
1 Nevada 1949
1 Ore St 1963
1 Pacific 1959
1 San Francisco 1952
1 Santa Clara 1971
1 SDSU 1994
1 Utah 2005
1 Utah St 1962
1 UTEP 1968

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Braylon Mullins passes on NBA draft, staying at UConn

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NCAA Basketball: Final Four National Championship-Connecticut at MichiganApr 6, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; UConn Huskies guard Braylon Mullins (24) controls the ball against Michigan Wolverines guard Roddy Gayle Jr. (11) during the second half in the national championship of the Final Four of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament between the and the Michigan Wolverines at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

UConn’s sharp-shooting wing Braylon Mullins announced Saturday on social media that he is passing on entering the NBA draft and returning to the Huskies for his sophomore season.

Mullins, regarded as a first-round and possible lottery pick in the 2026 draft in June, made the announcement on Instagram on his 20th birthday.

The slender 6-foot-6 Mullins, a five-star recruit and McDonald’s All-American out of Greenfield, Ind., was a unanimous pick for the Big East All-Freshman Team after averaging 12.0 points, 3.5 rebounds and 1.4 assists in 33 games after missing the first six with an ankle injury. He started 29 of UConn’s final 30 games.

His 72 3-pointers were second most for a freshman in UConn history. He shot 33.5% (72 of 215), with his most famous the shot of the NCAA Tournament.

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Mullins’ 35-footer with 0.3 seconds left beat Duke 73-72 in the Elite Eight, sending UConn to the Final Four. The Huskies (34-6) later lost 69-63 to No. 1 Michigan in the national championship game.

Earlier on Saturday, rising sophomore Nikolas Khamenia announced he was transferring from Duke. The 6-foot-8 wing joins a squad returning Mullins and point guard Silas Demary Jr., wing Jayden Ross, transfer Najai Hines (Seton Hall) and incoming freshmen Colben Landrew and Junior County.

UConn is waiting on guard Solo Ball to announce his plans and has lost forward Jaylin Stewart and center Eric Reibe to the transfer portal.

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–Field Level Media

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76ers vs. Celtics prediction, odds, line, time: 2026 NBA playoff picks for Sunday

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The Boston Celtics look to win their second championship in three years as they open up their 2026 NBA playoff run against the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 1 of their first-round series on Sunday. Philadelphia is coming off a 109-97 play-in game win over Orlando on Wednesday, while Boston defeated the Magic 113-108 on Sunday. The Sixers (45-37), the seventh seed in the East, are 22-19 on the road this season. The Celtics (56-26), the second seed, are 30-11 on their home court. Philadelphia will be without Joel Embiid (appendectomy).

Tipoff from TD Garden in Boston is set for 1 p.m. ET. The Celtics lead the all-time series 275-200, but the teams split four meetings this season. Boston is a 12.5-point favorite in the latest 76ers vs. Celtics odds via FanDuel Sportsbook, while the over/under for total points scored is 213.5. Before making any 76ers vs. Celtics picks, check out the 76ers vs. Celtics predictions from the SportsLine Projection Model.

The SportsLine Projection Model simulates every NBA game 10,000 times and has returned well over $10,000 in betting profit for $100 players on its top-rated NBA picks over the past eight-plus seasons. The model entered the 2026 NBA playoffs on a sizzling 23-9 roll (72%) on top-rated NBA spread picks this season. Anyone following its NBA betting advice at sportsbooks and on betting apps could have seen huge returns.

Now, the model has simulated 76ers vs. Celtics 10,000 times and just revealed its coveted NBA picks and betting predictions. You can head to SportsLine now to see the model’s picks. Here are several NBA odds and NBA betting lines for Celtics vs. Sixers:

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76ers vs. Celtics spread:    

Celtics -12.5 at FanDuel    

76ers vs. Celtics over/under:    

213.5 points

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76ers vs. Celtics money line:

Celtics -826, 76ers +560

76ers vs. Celtics picks:    

See picks at SportsLine

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76ers vs. Celtics streaming:

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Top 76ers vs. Celtics predictions

After 10,000 simulations of 76ers vs. Celtics, SportsLine’s model is going Over on the total (213.5). Embiid’s absence should open the lane for the Celtics, a team that finished the regular season fourth in offensive rating. The Sixers, meanwhile, have enough offensive capability with Tyrese Maxey, Paul George and VJ Edgecombe all available.

The SportsLine model is projecting the 76ers to have four players scoring in double figures, led by Maxey’s 25.7 points. Jaylen Brown is projected to lead the Celtics with 28.3 points scored, but only three Boston players will score 15 or more points. The teams are projected to combine for 215 total points, making it a great selection for anybody targeting NBA parlay betting. See the 76ers vs. Celtics spread pick at SportsLine, and you can bet the Over in Celtics vs. 76ers at FanDuel here:

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How to make 76ers vs. Celtics picks

After simulating each possession of 76ers vs. Celtics 10,000 times, the model also says one side of the spread hits nearly 60% of the time. You can head to SportsLine to see the model’s NBA picks

So who wins 76ers vs. Celtics, and which side of the spread hits in nearly 60% of simulations? Visit SportsLine now to see which side of the spread to back, all from the model that has returned well over $10,000 on top-rated NBA picks, and find out.

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Lookman Scores but Atletico Madrid Lose Copa del Rey Final on Penalties

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Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman was on target for Atlético Madrid, but they suffered a painful penalty shootout defeat to Real Sociedad in the final of the Copa del Rey.

Atleti started the match as slight favourites under coach Diego Simeone, but they were shocked early on. Ander Barrenetxea gave Real Sociedad the lead in the opening minute, heading home a fine cross from Gonçalo Guedes.

Lookman responded in style in the 18th minute. The Nigerian attacker calmly controlled a pass from Antoine Griezmann before firing a low shot past goalkeeper Unai Simón to level the score at 1-1.

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The 26-year-old remained lively and nearly turned provider in the 31st minute, but Griezmann failed to hit the target from a good position. Lookman also came close again before the break, narrowly missing the post after another neat exchange with the Frenchman.

Despite Atleti’s efforts, Real Sociedad regained the lead just before half-time. Mikel Oyarzabal converted from the penalty spot after Guedes was fouled in the box.

Atletico Madrid pushed hard in the second half, with Lookman again going close in the 60th minute, but his effort drifted wide. Shortly after, Simeone replaced him with Nicolás González.

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Atleti eventually found an equaliser in the 83rd minute through Julián Álvarez, sending the match into extra time. However, neither side could find a winner after 120 minutes.

The final was decided on penalties, where Real Sociedad held their nerve to score four spot-kicks, while Atletico Madrid managed only three.

Despite the defeat, Lookman made history with his goal. He became the first Nigerian to score in a Copa del Rey final since Finidi George achieved the feat in 1997.

However, the result means Atletico Madrid must now turn their attention to the UEFA Champions League as they continue their search for silverware this season.

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‘I’ve been grinding’: Blue Jays’ Lukes delivers solid effort amid vertigo issues

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PHOENIX — Nathan Lukes has quietly grinded through the first three weeks of the season in more ways than one. So, when his pinch-hit single snuck through the right side Friday night to end an 0-for-23 slide, and the Toronto Blue Jays outfielder saw his teammates in the dugout happy for him as he reached first base, “it was just what I needed,” he said. 

“I looked at Bud (first base coach Mark Budzinski) and I go, ‘I kind of want to hug you,’” Lukes recalled. “And he was like, ‘We can hug.’ It was good. I feel like I’ve been due for a cheap one. Hopefully they keep coming.”

Three more did in Saturday’s 6-2 loss to the Arizona Diamondbacks, one leading to a first-inning run, and he added a sixth-inning outfield assist, throwing out Geraldo Perdomo trying to stretch a single. It was the type of outing by the 31-year-old the Blue Jays became accustomed to last season, and the kind of effort Lukes aims to deliver more regularly now that he has a handle on the vertigo that’s dogged him since the middle of spring training.

Lukes visited with a Phoenix-area vertigo specialist Friday morning and doubled down on some head-movement exercises that can help alleviate the symptoms, which include dizziness, unsteadiness and nausea. Since arriving in Arizona, he’s had a couple of “the better days with my vision that I’ve had in the past month,” which played a big role in him getting better results. 

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“I don’t know where (the vertigo) came from and how it happened, but it’s hard to hit when the world is spinning and when you feel like you could throw up at any second,” said Lukes. “I never want to take myself out of the game, whether I’m feeling good or feeling bad. So, I’ve been grinding.”

As have the Blue Jays, of course, who lost their fourth straight game when Jeff Hoffman, pitching in the eighth inning of a 2-2 game to ensure he got some work in, allowed singles to Ildemaro Vargas and Alek Thomas and a Ketel Marte walk before Corbin Carroll cleared the bases with his third home run of the season. 

It was the second straight poor outing for Hoffman, who allowed two earned runs during a messy ninth in Tuesday’s 9-7, 10-inning win at Milwaukee and adds yet another concern to a roster filled with them, even if manager John Schneider insisted there are no changes in role coming.

“If there’s a situation to close out of game, I’ll take Jeff Hoffman,” said Schneider, adding later: “There may be people that don’t want to hear this, but I’ve got a lot of trust and a lot of confidence in Jeff Hoffman. And I’ve said that for as long as he’s been here.  He’s going to continue to be a big part of our team. And my job is to find spots to put him in and have success. I’m very confident that he will continue to have success, so we’ll just make the best decisions going forward.”

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That’s what the Blue Jays are also trying to do with Daulton Varsho, who left Friday night’s 6-3 loss after two innings with left knee discomfort and sat out Saturday, Schneider noting that “with the way we’ve been rolling,” they are simply “trying to just be extra careful.”

“I don’t think there’s any need for a roster move or anything,” Schneider added, noting that Varsho had been checked out and there wasn’t any concern about anything structural.

Max Scherzer steadied after two short outings tied to his forearm tendinitis with six innings of two-run ball — “I’m definitely better, I’m fighting through this. I felt like the ball can come out of my hand a little bit cleaner, I’ve got to recover,” he said — but the ongoing offensive issues remained, despite 12 hits.

The Blue Jays went 2-for-9 with runners in scoring position, getting only Jesus Sanchez’s RBI single in the first, bringing home Lukes to open the scoring, and a Kazuma Okamoto RBI single in the sixth that made it a 2-2 game. 

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Then, as so often has been the case for the Blue Jays so far, the key blow belonged to their opponent.

“We’ve got to make our own luck,” said Scherzer. “We’ve got to find a way to go out there and take it to some teams and find a way to punch through. This can happen in July, but it’s happening to us now, so we have to respond to it. … Everybody can be reflective. And that’s what it takes. It takes a total team effort to win one ball game. I know we can. Obviously, it’s going to be great when we do. Right now, we’ve just got to find that winning recipe.”

One a healthy Lukes can be a big part of, as he showed Saturday.

“Nate’s a damn good baseball player,” said Schneider. “And when he’s at his full capabilities, that’s the kind of game he can have.”

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Corbin Carroll slam extends D-backs’ win streak, Jays’ skid

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MLB: Toronto Blue Jays at Arizona DiamondbacksApr 18, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks right fielder Corbin Carroll (7) steals secondbase under the tag by Toronto Blue Jays second baseman Andrés Giménez (0) in the first inning at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images

Corbin Carroll broke a tie with an opposite-field grand slam in the eighth inning and the Arizona Diamondbacks extended their winning streak to four games with a 6-2 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays in Phoenix on Saturday.

Ildemaro Vargas singled off Jeff Hoffman (1-2) to open the eighth, extending his season-opening hitting streak to a franchise-record 14 games.

Alek Thomas singled and Ketel Marte walked to bring up Carroll, who hit his fourth career grand slam on a 3-1 fastball.

The D-backs, who have won eight of 10, lead the majors with 10 comeback victories.

Geraldo Perdomo had three singles and an RBI and Thomas had two hits and an RBI for the Diamondbacks, who had eight hits.

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Nathan Lukes had three hits, Kazuma Okamoto had two hits and an RBI and Ernie Clement and Eloy Jimenez had two hits apiece for the Blue Jays, who have lost four straight, six of seven and 12 of 15.

Juan Morillo (1-1) struck out Vladimir Guerrero Jr. on a 100 mph fastball with a runner on first to end the seventh and keep the game tied at 2. He allowed one hit and struck out two over 1 1/3 innings of relief.

Toronto starter Max Scherzer gave up two runs on five hits in six innings, with one strikeout and one walk.

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Arizona starter Zac Gallen permitted two runs and nine hits, leaving after Okamato’s single tied the game at 2 with two outs in the sixth. He struck out three with no walks.

Lukes, Guerrero and Jesus Sanchez singled in the top of the first, with Sanchez’s one-out single driving in Lukes for a 1-0 lead. Guerrero has a nine-game hitting streak.

The D-backs tied it in their half of the first when Carroll walked, stole second and scored on Perdomo’s single. Thomas grounded a two-out double inside the bag at first to drive in Jose Fernandez, who had singled, to give Arizona a 2-1 lead in the fifth.

Toronto tied it in the sixth after an apparent double play was changed after a review. Jimenez singled with one out, and Gallen appeared to get out of the inning when Andres Gimenez grounded to Fernandez to start what originally was called an inning-ending double play.

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Perdomo was ruled to have missed the bag on the play, leaving Jimenez at second, and he scored on Okamoto’s single to tie the game.

–Field Level Media

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5 Reasons why Gunther defeated Seth Rollins at WWE WrestleMania 42

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One of the matches that actually delivered on the first night at WWE WrestleMania was Gunther vs Seth Rollins. The Ring General and The Visionary delivered a banger show and impressed everyone in the crowd.

However, the match concluded when Bron Breakker returned to WWE and destroyed Seth Rollins. This attack allowed the Career Ki**er to defeat the Architect and secure the victory.

Following the match, the new Big Dog continues his domination and spears the former Vision leader again. Meanwhile, in this article, we will be looking at five reasons why The Ring General defeated Rollins at Showcase of Immortals Night 1.


#5. To continue Gunther’s undefeated streak

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Over the past few months, Gunther continued his domination in the squared circle. In the last few months, the former Imperium Leader retired Goldberg, John Cena, and AJ Styles.

Not only this, but he also has an impressive winning streak in the squared circle in singles matches. The last time Gunther suffered a loss in a singles match was at SummerSlam 2025, where CM Punk defeated him to become the new World Heavyweight Champion.

Since then, The Ring General has defeated everyone in his match in singles bouts. So, it seems WWE wants to keep Gunther’s undefeated streak going. As a result, he defeated The Visionary at ‘Mania on Saturday.


#4. To set up a WWE rematch down the road

Gunther defeating Seth Rollins at WrestleMania 42 opens the door for a potential rematch in the near future. If The Visionary had defeated the Career Ki**er at ‘Mania, it would have concluded their rivalry as Rollins stopped his threat amid a feud with the Vision faction.

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However, this doesn’t happen, and the former WWE World Heavyweight Champion put The Architect in a sleeper hold after Bron Breakker’s interruption. Now, WWE can use this angle to set the stage for a rematch between them later this year.

If the Ring General mocks Rollins for beating him at Mania 42, Seth will indeed seek revenge for this loss, setting the stage for another bout. The chances are likely if Seth manages to win the world title later this year.


#3. Paul Heyman now owes Gunther a favor

If Seth Rollins had defeated Gunther at the Grandest Stage of Them All, it might have created a hindrance for the Ring General to redeem his favor from Paul Heyman. After saving the Oracle on Monday Night RAW, the former Imperium Leader confirmed that Heyman owed him a favor.

After defeating the Visionary at Shows of the Shows, Gunther can firmly claim his favor from the Advocate anytime he wants. Many predicted it might lead to a Gunther vs. Brock Lesnar dream showdown, considering that the Hall of Famer is still working with the Beast Incarnate.

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So, this appears to be another major reason behind the loss of Seth Rollins at Mania 42.


#2. To heat things between Seth Rollins & Bron Breakker

One of the primary reasons why Gunther defeated Seth Rollins at Showcase of Immortals was Bron Breakker. The WWE comeback of Bron and his attack on the Visionary gave the Ring General a major advantage to put the ex-Vision leader into a sleeper hold.

So, to heat things between Breakker and Rollins could be another potential reason why the Career Ki**er defeated Seth on Mania Saturday. Now, in the aftermath edition of Monday Night RAW, Rollins will indeed call Breakker out and punish him for his actions.

This will lead to the much-anticipated match between Seth and Bron in the Stamford-based promotion.

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#1. It doesn’t hurt Seth Rollins’ momentum post-Mania

BRON BREAKKER SPEARS SETH ROLLINS AGAIN!!! #WrestleMania OH MY 😱

It’s crucial to note that Gunther indeed secured victory at WrestleMania 42. However, this only happened when the Visionary passed out from the sleeper hold. The Ring General failed to secure a pinfall victory over the Architect.

Even the Visionary never tapped out from Gunther’s submission. The match ended when the referee checked Rollins, and he faded out from that choke. Also, the former World Heavyweight Champion only managed to put this submission move tight on the beloved WWE star after Bron Breakker’s disruption.

Overall, this doesn’t hurt the Architect’s momentum post-WrestleMania 42, and it’s another reason WWE booked Gunther to defeat Seth at the Shows of the Shows.

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Despite this loss, Rollins will still appear strong in his forthcoming feud against Bron Breakker. Meanwhile, if Seth had defeated the Ring General, it would have not only ended his undefeated streak but also impacted his momentum post-WrestleMania.

So, these are all the potential reasons why Gunther defeated Seth Rollins at WWE WrestleMania 42 on Saturday. The RAW after Mania show will be interesting to witness, particularly after Bron Breakker returns to the Sports Entertainment juggernaut.

Also, it remains to be seen what’s next for the WWE Career Ki**er after his massive victory over the Visionary.