A Minnesota Vikings fan greets fellow supporters near the NFL Draft stage during second- and third-round festivities, with April 26, 2019 in Nashville, Tennessee capturing the lively atmosphere as crowds gathered to celebrate and follow selections during one of the league’s marquee offseason events. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zaleski / For The Tennessean
Every team has them, but it’s time to analyze the Minnesota Vikings’ current draft droughts and oddities. In doing so, some clues may dribble out about the team’s plans on April 23rd, when the draft kicks off.
Minnesota has some unusual draft habits that could matter this month.
Interim general manager Rob Brzezinski will take on his first draft as the top guy, and these are some of the things that just haven’t happened in a while for the purple team.
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The Long-Running Draft Patterns Following the Vikings
Picks and habits that have eluded Minnesota.
Oregon Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq (18) celebrates after scoring a touchdown on Nov 22, 2025, at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Oregon, during a first-half matchup against the USC Trojans. Sadiq’s play highlighted his red-zone presence as Oregon capitalized on an early scoring opportunity in front of a loud home crowd. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images.
No TE Ever Taken in Round 1
Minnesota has drafted a few 2nd-Round tight ends in 65 years, but they’ve never taken the plunge in Round 1.
This time, they might have a chance at ending the drought, as Oregon’s Kenyon Sadiq has a 50/50 chance of being on the board at Pick No. 18. Choosing Sadiq would make sense after Minnesota reworked T.J. Hockenson’s deal this offseason, enabling him to hit free agency next offseason.
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No WR in Round 2 in 19 Years
Sidney Rice — he’s the last WR discovered by the Vikings in Round 2 way back in 2007. Minnesota usually just connects on 1st-Round wideouts or finds them in late rounds like Stefon Diggs in 2015 or undrafted free agency like Adam Thielen in 2013.
This year, a man like Alabama’s Germie Bernard could end the madness.
No Center in Round 2 in 47 Years
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The Vikings drafted Dave Huffman in Round 2 of the 1979 NFL Draft. He didn’t last long. Since then, Minnesota has said no thanks to 2nd-Round centers.
In 2026, they could “reach” a bit for a player like Connor Lew of Auburn.
No DT Drafted in Round 1 since 2013
Remember Sharrif Floyd? The guy whose career started somewhat promising but flamed out because of injury? He was the last defensive tackle picked in Round 1 by the purple team.
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In 12 days, the drought could end with Clemson’s Peter Woods or Ohio State’s Kayden McDonald.
Just One EDGE in Round 1 in Last 20 Years
In 2005, the Vikings drafted Erasmus James in Round 1 — and then stopped investing such capital in EDGE defenders. They preferred the comfort of trades — see: Jared Allen — and the middle rounds for players like Everson Griffen and Danielle Hunter.
Keldric Faulk (Auburn) and Akheem Mesidor (Miami) are in play at No. 18 in 2026.
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Just One Safety in Round 2 in Last 30 Years
Like the center position, the Vikings also don’t draft safeties in Round 2. The only guy in the last three decades was Tyrell Johnson from Arkansas State in 2008.
Washington State quarterback Zevi Eckhaus (4) is brought down by Toledo safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren (7) on Oct 25, 2025, at Gesa Field at Martin Stadium in Pullman, Washington, during second-half action. McNeil-Warren’s tackle halted the play and showcased Toledo’s defensive pursuit in a physical cross-conference matchup. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-Imagn Images.
On April 24th, Minnesota could change this tendency by picking LSU’s A.J. Haulcy or hoping Dillon Thieneman (Oregon) or Emmanuel McNeil-Warren (Toledo) fall after a Vikings trade back.
No RBs Drafted in First 4 Rounds in 5 Years
Since Dalvin Cook left the franchise after the 2022 campaign, Minnesota has opted for veteran RB fixes, including Alexander Mattison, Aaron Jones, and Jordan Mason. They had no young running back to take the baton.
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This is a very strange drought because it’s not difficult to find RB talent anywhere in the draft. Thankfully, Minnesota has done its homework so far in this draft cycle, having officially met with Nebraska’s Emmett Johnson and Wake Forest’s Demond Claiborne.
ESPN’s Kevin Seifert noted on the RB need this week, “Jordan Mason, 26, and Aaron Jones, 31, are entering the final year of their contracts, and the Vikings explored moving on from Jones this spring when they bid for free agent Travis Etienne Jr. After the New Orleans Saints signed Etienne, Jones agreed to take a pay cut to return.”
“There might not be an immediate need for a running back, but it is coming soon. The 2026 class of running backs is not deep enough to feel assured that Brzezinski will have a value pick available to him in the top 100. The class offers one dominant, explosive playmaker who almost certainly will be a top-10 pick — Notre Dame’s Jeremiyah Love — and then a notable drop-off.”
Last year’s draft was renowned for running back depth, but Minnesota drafted zilch.
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Washington running back Jonah Coleman (1) powers through defenders on Oct 4, 2025, at SECU Stadium in College Park, Maryland, during a game against Maryland. Coleman pushed upfield with strength and balance as the Huskies leaned on their rushing attack in a competitive matchup against the Terrapins. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Sabau-Imagn Images.
Seifert added, “At least two others appear likely to be top-100 picks: Love’s Notre Dame teammate Jadarian Price and Arkansas’ Mike Washington Jr. In a recent three-round mock draft conducted by ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr., Matt Miller and Jordan Reid, Kiper matched the Vikings with Price with the No. 49 pick.”
Just One WR in Rounds 2 & 3 in Last 18 Years
Remember the Tai Felton pick in Round 3 last year? That was the first time in about two decades that Minnesota chose a wideout in Rounds 2 or 3 — basically a Friday night.
This year, Minnesota is meeting with gobs of pass-catchers who might be taken in Rounds 2 and 3. This drought feels like it’s nearing an end.
Tyson Fury has come out of retirement to face Russian boxer Arslanbek Makhmudov in a heavyweight clash in London on April 11. The fight will stream live on Netflix, which fans can get for free with Sky’s £15 Essential TV bundle or £24 Ultimate TV bundle, the latter of which also includes HBO Max and Disney+.
Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; April 25, 2025; A wide shot captures the stage video board displaying “The Pick Is In” for the Minnesota Vikings during the third round of the NFL Draft, as fans and team personnel await the announcement inside the draft theater in Green Bay. Mandatory Credit: Perry Knotts-Getty Images
Next week, our staff will formally predict the Minnesota Vikings’ 1st-Round pick of the 2026 NFL Draft, but first, we asked our writers to get funky — the bold stuff that might unfold between April 23rd and 25th. “Bold predictions,” by design, are supposed to be “out there” and even a little bizarre.
These predictions lean weird for a reason.
Minnesota has nine picks this time; here’s what our people say will happen if things get a bit weird.
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12 Vikings Calls That Could Rattle Minnesota’s Draft
Thinking outside the box for the 2026 NFL Draft.
Pasadena, California, USA; Nebraska running back Emmett Johnson (21) celebrates after reaching the end zone during first-half action against UCLA at the Rose Bowl, Nov 8, 2025, as teammates react nearby and momentum swings in Nebraska’s favor during a high-energy matchup. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
1. The First 4 Pick Are Offensive Players
Predictor: Wes Johnson
The Vikings are in a prime position to add to the offensive side of the ball, and when you futurecast it, you can see why they’ll lean that way. Jordan Addison had his 5th-year option picked up, which means he will be on the 2027 books for around $18m.
Justin Jefferson will come in around $49.5m, with the two WRs set to command about 21% of the cap. That’s not sustainable for future years, and thinking about the position’s future is smart football.
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WRs KC Conception or Jordan Tyson could be targets in the first round. Tight end is another area to focus on for the future. T.J. Hockenson will be a free agent and has slowed down since his knee injury.
Drafting someone dynamic on Day 2 should be a must; Eli Stowers, Max Klare, or Oscar Delp would be options here. Finally, finding a center of the future to shore up the line moving forward will only help keep the pocket clean for Kyler Murray. At pick No. 97, I can see them bringing home Emmitt Johnson, who many are saying is an Aaron Jones clone. Who better to learn under than Jones in what might be a swan-song year for #33?
2. Offensive Tackle Drafted Early
Predictor: Janik Eckardt
On paper, the Vikings don’t need an offensive tackle with Brian O’Neill and Christian Darrisaw still on the roster. Furthermore, the franchise signed backup Ryan Van Demark this offseason. Still, with injury concerns surrounding both starters, the front office will select a tackle in the Top 100 to add a long-term backup to the squad, who will be developed until he’s ready to enter the starting lineup in a year or two.
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3. Vikings End up with 10 Picks + Plus One Banked for 2027
Predictor: Kyle Joudry
The Vikings go into the event with nine picks. By the time it’s done, the Vikings will have made 10 selections and added an extra pick for 2027.
4. Vikings Trade Down, Draft DT Peter Woods
Predictor: Steve Hoikkala
The Vikings trade back from Pick No. 18 and stay in the 1st Round to select DL Peter Woods from Clemson to pair with Jalen Redmond. The Vikings know they need to build in the trenches to be successful on defense.
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5. J.J. McCarthy Traded, Rookie QB Drafted
Predictor: Ted Schwerzler
Not only is J.J. McCarthy gone, but the Vikings can also land a developmental prospect. By trading McCarthy, Minnesota gets mid-round draft capital this cycle. They’ll stick with Kyler Murray when it works, and landing Taylen Green (Arkansas) or Cole Payton (NDSU) on Day 3 gives Kevin O’Connell a lower-profile project.
6. The Pick Is Oregon TE Kenyon Sadiq
Predictor: Dustin Baker
When the Vikings reworked T.J. Hockenson’s contract, making him a free agent in 2027, many fans thought, “Hockenson is back, huh? I guess they’re not drafting a tight end.”
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What they should have thought? “Hockenson’s last year in Minnesota is 2026, so a tight end from the draft is now in play.”
The pick at No. 18 is Sadiq, who will help compensate for the Vikings’ lack of WR3 at the moment — and so much more.
7. First 2 Picks Are Safeties
Predictor: Henrique Gucciardi
Flores seems happy with his starting cornerbacks, but even if Harrison Smith returns, the safety position must be addressed. With that in mind, interim GM Rob Brzezinski selects either Dillon Thieneman or Emmanuel McNeil-Warren on Day 1 and pairs him with A.J. Haulcy as their second pick
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8. Vikings Trade Out of Round 1 Altogether
Predictor: Adam New
This year’s draft appears low on top-end talent, and the Vikings look like they are in a good spot to trade back. They go out of the first round completely for more Day 2 picks.
9. Jeremiyah Love Somehow Lands in MIN
Predictor: Cole Smith
South Bend, Indiana, USA; Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love (4) carries the football while USC safety Bishop Fitzgerald (19) closes in defensively during second-half play at Notre Dame Stadium, Oct 18, 2025, as the Irish offense pushes for yards in a tightly contested matchup. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
The Vikings land Jeremiyah Love … without trading up. That’s it. That’s the prediction. This is what I’m rooting for, and I think there’s a world in which it happens. Very unlikely, but I don’t want the Vikings trading up for him either.
10. No Safety in First 3 Rounds
Predictor: Josh Frey
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There are plenty of reasons for the Vikings to pick a safety early in this spring’s draft, but do they outweigh needs at other positions? I’m not so certain. The Vikings won’t end up with a new safety by the end of Day 2.
11. No Offensive Players until Rounds 4-7
Predictor: Brevan Bane
Glendale, Arizona, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores stands on the sideline observing defensive alignments during the NFC Wild Card game against the Los Angeles Rams, Jan 13, 2025, as postseason intensity builds and communication remains critical throughout the matchup. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The Vikings won’t select any offensive players until Day 3. Given how much the defense needs young talent and how the board could likely shake out, Minnesota could have some decent looks at good defenders at its selections at 18, 49, 82, and 97.
12. Vikings Draft DL and OL with First 3 Picks
Predictor: Sean Borman
Vikings bypass the secondary and WR early in the draft to use their first three picks on a “trench-first” overhaul of IDL and C. This strategy prioritizes long-term cap sustainability and leans into Brian Flores’ identity by betting that elite physical line play is more critical to success than high-priced cornerbacks.
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It’s building the roster from the inside out. After all, three of the four starting trenchmen who were signed in free agency last offseason are already gone.
Money in Graveyard Keeper is one of the most important resources, allowing you to purchase items and upgrades as you navigate this unique cemetery management simulator. So, it comes as no surprise that gamers are looking for ways to make money in the game.
Here’s how you can make money in Graveyard Keeper.
Guide to make money in Graveyard Keeper
1) Selling burial certificates
Selling burial certificates is one of the best ways to earn cash in Graveyard Keeper (Image via YouTube/NunoLac Games||Lazy Bear Games)
One of the easiest ways to make money in Graveyard Keeper is to sell the burial certificates. Every time you bury a body or cremate it, you will receive a certificate as a reward. These certificates can be sold to Horadic, the tavern keeper in the game.
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Each of these certificates is sold for one silver and fifty copper, making it one of the easiest ways to farm and make money in Graveyard Keeper. Essentially, being a graveyard caretaker is the best way to net some sweet cash in the game.
2) Church donations
Church donations can offer a fixed weekly income (Image via YouTube/NunoLac Games||Lazy Bear Games)
Church donations are one of the easiest ways to make money in the game. Simply give sermons every week and earn cash as a reward/handout for the prayer. While the initial rewards might not be good, upgrading your church will yield as much as 10+ silver per sermon.
You can upgrade your graveyard and use better sermons and prayers to increase the payout, making it a fixed weekly stream of guaranteed money in Graveyard Keeper.
3) Trading with the merchant
Trade with the merchant to earn a decent cache of silver (Image via YouTube/NunoLac Games||Lazy Bear Games)
Another easy way to make money in Graveyard Keeper is by trading with the merchant. After reaching reputation level 30, you will be able to unlock a trade post. This will enable you to trade and sell a range of items for money and other valuable resources.
You can create crates of goods, filling them with all kinds of items you wish to sell and dispose of. While silver crates sell for ten silver and seventy-five copper, a gold crate can be sold for sixteen silver and fifty copper. Meanwhile, a goods crate will net you fifteen silver pieces.
4) Selling meat
Sell meat to the tavern to make money in Graveyard Keeper (Image via YouTube/Clockwork0110||Lazy Bear Games)
Another great way to make money in later parts of the game is by selling meat from the corpses. Once you deal with the bodies on the autopsy table, you will notice that you can take the flesh from the morgue and sell it to the tavern. However, that requires a stamp to prove the meat’s authenticity.
This stamp can be obtained in two ways. Firstly, you can reach level 30 reputation with Snake, which can be done easily by completing his questline. Secondly, you can buy it through the royal services, located in the mailbox near the church. Once you unlock it, you can purchase the stamp for 50 silver. While it is a hefty initial fee, the constant supply of corpses more than makes up for it later on.
NEW DELHI: The monkey was finally off Sanju Samson’s shoulders. Emotions ran high for the wicketkeeper-batter as teammates surrounded him with high-fives, hugs, and celebrations. Samson, however, looked calm and content, flashing a big smile after playing a key role in Chennai Super Kings’ first win of IPL 2026.Samson, who managed scores of 6, 7 and 9 in CSK’s first three matches, roared back in style with a magnificent century to guide his team to a 23-run win over Delhi Capitals on Saturday, finally opening their account after three straight defeats.The batter, who was traded from Rajasthan Royals ahead of the season, delivered his first major contribution in CSK colours after early struggles. He had entered the IPL with high expectations, having hit three half-centuries in India’s T20 World Cup triumph at home in March.Samson’s unbeaten 115 off 56 balls, along with Ayush Mhatre’s 59 off 36, powered CSK to a commanding 212 for 2. The duo stitched together a 113-run stand for the second wicket. In response, Delhi Capitals faltered against a brilliant spell from Jamie Overton, who picked up 4 for 18 as they were bowled out for 189.“Really means a lot. The trust they showed, it was very responsible. Luckily everything came off nicely. It never felt like a different franchise. People are so nice. We had a meeting of 50 seconds today even after losing three matches,” Sanju Samson said after being named Player of the Match.“I have failed a lot. Mind gets a bit here and there. I need to know what my basics are. It’s about doing the basics right. We did some good sessions with the support staff,” he added.Samson was the chief architect of CSK’s memorable night at Chepauk. Asked to bat first, he registered his first big knock in a CSK jersey and shared a dominant partnership with Mhatre, who showcased his growing maturity in a vital stand of 113 runs in just over 11 overs.It was Samson’s fourth IPL hundred and his first for CSK, as well as the first century of the IPL 2026 season. The knock was crucial in restoring belief among the CSK faithful, especially after a poor start to the campaign.“It was very important to have great partnerships. Ayush has shown so much maturity. (On his celebration) That was for Fleming, I know how challenging it can be. I just wanted to dedicate this to him,” he said.
Sturm Graz will welcome Hartberg to Merkur-Arena in the Austrian Bundesliga on Sunday. The hosts are out to defend their title, while the visitors are looking to snatch a UEFA spot.
Sturm Graz vs Hartberg Preview
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Sturm Graz have won the Austrian Bundesliga in the last two seasons and are certainly eying a third, back-to-back, this term. They are on track, after winning the regular season by one point ahead of second-placed Red Bull Salzburg. However, they would have to clinch the Championship round to become champions anew.
Die Schwoazn, unlike the visitors, are undefeated in their last seven matches in all competitions. They seem to have extended their impressive run into the Championship round, winning twice and drawing once. Sturm Graz sit atop the Championship round on 26 points, but are closely followed by LASK on 25 points.
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Hartberg managed to escape the relegation battle by two points, after finishing sixth on 33 points, just above WSG Tirol (31 points). But the visitors are struggling in the Championship round, with two defeats already against Salzburg (2-1) and Austria Vienna (1-0). They boast only one draw.
TSV didn’t fare better last season either. They finished in eighth place and failed to qualify for the Championship round, taking part in the Relegation round. The visitors eventually finished second to earn qualification for the Conference League play-offs. Sturm Graz defeated Hartberg 1-0 in their last meeting.
Sturm Graz vs Hartberg Head-to-Head and Key Numbers
Sturm Graz have won four times and drawn once in their last five matches against Hartberg.
Sturm Graz have won thrice and lost twice in their last five matches at home against Hartberg.
Sturm Graz have won thrice and drawn twice in their last five matches at home.
Hartberg have won twice and drawn thrice in their last five matches on the road.
Sturm Graz have won thrice and drawn twice in their last five matches, while Hartberg have drawn thrice and lost twice. Form Guide: Sturm Graz – W-D-D-W-W, Hartberg – L-L-D-D-D.
Sturm Graz vs Hartberg Prediction
Sturm Graz are in a tight race to safeguard their top spot, with just one point clear. Any slip-up at this moment would be disastrous.
Hartberg have little hope of success in this competition, as they sit bottom on 17 points, trailing the top spot by nine points.
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Sturm Graz are expected to win based on form and home advantage.
Check in to GOLF’s Tour Confidential every Sunday night for the unfiltered opinions of our writers and editors as they break down the hottest topics in the sport. This week, with the Masters at Augusta National, we’ll hit one key topic every night.
After leading by a record six-shot margin at the 36-hole mark, Rory McIlroy now shares the lead with Cameron Young at 11 under par with one round remaining. Sam Burns is one shot back at 10 under, followed by Shane Lowry at 9 under, Jason Day and Justin Rose at 8 under, and Scottie Scheffler and Haotong Li at 7 under. So, who’s slipping into a green jacket on Sunday evening?
Jack Hirsh, associate equipment editor (@JR_HIRSHey): That feels like a loaded question at this point… I don’t know who else to rationally think will win this golf course if it’s not Rory. I would assume he’ll fix whatever is going on with his ball striking because he’s putting together a world-class scrambling effort. I think if he’s just a little better off the tee and with his irons Sunday, he gets it done. Otherwise, Scottie pulls off the unthinkable.
Zephyr Melton, associate game-improvement editor (@zephyrmelton): My heart tells me Rory gets it done, but my brain tells me it’s going to be Cameron Young. Since shooting 40 on his opening nine of the tournament, Young has been far and away the best player in the field, going 15 under over his next 45 holes. It’s going to take some serious golf to keep up with Young’s torrid pace, and with Rory looking exceedingly shaky on Saturday, I don’t know that he’s up for the task.
Jessica Marksbury, senior editor (@jess_marksbury): I’m not having a strong feeling about any player at this point — you could make a reasonable case for just about anyone within four shots or so of the lead. But if I have to choose someone, it’s going to be Rory. Assuming today was pretty much as bad as it could be for him, with a six-shot lead melting away in 12 holes, he’s still in front with one round remaining, and I believe has the fortitude and experience to right the ship and get this done.
Josh sens, senior writer (@joshsens): Because the golf gods have a wicked sense of humor, and because I see Scheffler posting another low round, I predict we get a three-way playoff, with Scheffler edging McIlroy and Young in sudden-death. There’s no doubt Rory has put the worst of his Augusta agony in the past. But it’s not going to feel great, slipping the green jacket back on the guy who helped him put it on last year. This game is cruel like that.
Josh Schrock, associate news editor (@schrock_and_awe): “Well, pal, we would’ve taken this on Monday morning.”
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Yes, Rory’s six-shot lead evaporated after 12 holes. But he still has a share of the lead and I think he’ll be able to rectify the right miss with the driver and left miss with his irons and wedges. I expect Cam Young and Scottie Scheffler to push him, but I think Rory once again gets this across the line. Like Nicklaus in ‘75, who blew a five-shot lead with a Saturday 73 and then rebounded to win, Rory figures it out and beats Scottie by one.
On Friday at Augusta National, Rory McIlroy was sublime. He made six birdies over his last seven holes to close out a seven-under 65, he opened up a six-shot lead (the largest in tournament history) and many questioned if the green jacket was already clinched.
As golf fans have witnessed so many times before, though, no lead is safe around Augusta National. And on Saturday, they got another reminder.
McIlroy, who is looking to become just the fourth golfer to win back-to-back Masters, was out of sorts during his third round, posting a one-over 73 to drop back into a tie for the lead with Cameron Young heading into the final round.
“This golf course has a way of — when you’re not quite feeling it, you struggle,” McIlroy said. “I just need to go to the range and try to figure it out a little bit.”
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By “it” he, of course, means his swing. Specifically, a pesky left miss with his approach shots into greens.
Several times throughout his third round, McIlroy missed left of the green. And as he made his way through Amen Corner, those left misses cost him three dropped shots as he made double bogey on 11 and bogey on 12.
The good news for McIlroy fans? The left miss he fought is correctable — and he seems to know why it’s happening.
“For me it’s just about keeping my lower body moving,” McIlroy said. “If I can just get my lower body moving through impact, then that should sort of fix it. But I am going to go and hit a few balls on the range to neutralize the ball flight a bit.”
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When the lower body slows (or stalls) around impact, your arms and hands take over and close the clubface. This is a miss that plagues everyone from casual recreational players all the way up to green jacket winners, and it’s something that can be round-wrecking if you aren’t careful.
McIlroy’s left miss makes much more sense with the added context of the type of shot he was trying to hit on some of the trouble shots. On Nos. 6 and 12, for example, he noted he was in between clubs and trying to hit a knockdown shot. When trying this three-quarter knockdown type shot, the tendency is for you to stall your turn around impact in a subconscious effort to keep the ball from going long. When you do this, however, the arms and hands take over and produce the pesky left miss.
“I had maybe awkward numbers or trying to take a little bit off and I missed those ones left,” McIlroy said. “So something to maybe go and work on tonight and, again, try to figure that out.”
If he can figure out how to guard against that miss, look for McIlroy to return to his form from the first two rounds and claim a second consecutive green jacket. If he can’t, he’ll be slipping the jacket on one of his competitors come Sunday evening.
Super Eagles striker Akor Adams continued his fine scoring form in La Liga, netting his eighth goal of the season in Sevilla’s 2-1 win over Atletico Madrid on Saturday night.
The match, played at the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán Stadium, saw Sevilla take full advantage of a heavily rotated Atletico side to secure three vital points in their fight to avoid relegation.
Adams opened the scoring early in the 10th minute after calmly converting a penalty. The spot-kick was awarded when Álex Baena brought down a Sevilla player inside the box, leaving the referee with no choice but to point to the spot. The Nigerian forward showed great composure to send the goalkeeper the wrong way and give his side the lead.
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Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone made several changes to his starting line-up, resting key players ahead of their crucial Champions League clash with FC Barcelona. Among those left out was Nigerian star Ademola Lookman.
Despite fielding a youthful team, Atletico managed to respond in the 35th minute. Javier Boñar marked his early senior appearances with a well-taken header, connecting with a cross from Julio Díaz to level the score at 1-1.
However, Sevilla regained the advantage just before half-time when Nemanja Gudelj struck in added time of the first half to make it 2-1.
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The victory is a major boost for Sevilla as they continue their battle to stay in the top flight, while Atletico will now turn their attention back to European competition.
For Adams, the goal further underlines his importance to Sevilla, as the Nigerian striker continues to deliver when it matters most.
AUGUSTA, Ga. — The theme of the week for Nick Taylor has been staying steady. Saturday at the Masters was another perfect example of that.
And now he’s trending toward recording his best career finish at a major championship.
Taylor, who shot a 2-under 70 in the third round, made four birdies Saturday, including a solid one on the par-4 18th. He also hit his wedge approach on the par-5 15th to just a foot and rolled in an awfully slippery birdie effort on No. 9 from the back of the green towards the front.
“They’re all slippery out here,” Taylor said with a smile.
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Taylor made two bogeys in the third round, the first coming on the par-3 12th after he was stymied in the front bunker, but said that was a great save.
“Honestly, I really had no chance to hit the green. I was trying to bank it in the hill and pop it up. If it went through, it would be okay. If I left it in the bunker, I thought it was all right. You know, that was a big putt to kind of keep some momentum going to salvage a four, but just not a great 9-iron, and I guess not a great break, but it was more so a poor shot,” Taylor said.
Much has been made about Taylor’s poor results in majors up until last year after he missed eight straight cuts, but he’s steadied himself on the game’s biggest stages of late — and now he’ll be playing in the late afternoon for the second time in the last three majors.
The Masters is unique with everyone being present and engaged with the goings on — and of course, the Masters roars are iconic — and Taylor said, being in a late group, meant that he heard the moans when Rory McIlroy made a bogey on the first hole, and the huge ovation when Shane Lowry aced the par-3 6th.
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“It’s just fun being out there hearing that stuff. Happy to be up close to the lead to kind of experience all that,” Taylor said. “I think last year on the weekend at the U.S. Open (where Taylor recorded his best result at a major), I was in one of the final groups there, and I have enough to draw back on that, so today wasn’t anything overwhelming that way.
“I think tomorrow will be exciting.”
Taylor is tied for 21st heading into the final round at Augusta National.
Corey Conners, meanwhile, will need a big final day if he wants to get into red figures for the week. The good news is that on Saturday, he proved he can still score his way around Augusta National — he’ll just need to minimize his mistakes for Sunday.
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Conners, who is tied for 44th, made six birdies in the third round but gave most of them back, with five bogeys sprinkled throughout the day.
“I did a good job. On some of the holes I’ve given myself good looks — just too many mistakes to not have the round that I wanted,” Conners said.
Conners hit his drive on No. 2 into the forest and then hit his approach on the par-5 13th into the creek in front of the green — both mishits leading to bogeys. He also missed a five-footer for par on his closing hole.
“Felt like I played a lot of holes exactly how I wanted to and gave myself good chances that I was able to convert; few holes where not quite as planned,” Conners said.
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“I did roll in some nice putts. Couple tough misses on two and 11 that hit way too the left with the driver. Other than that, was really solid. And then, yeah, a lot of good putts. Just wasn’t really able to put a good round together.”
Conners, emotionally, is ever steady. But he admitted he wasn’t thrilled with such an up-and-down scorecard in the third round. For Sunday, Conners said he simply wanted to build off “the good stuff.”
“You can’t really force things around here, so (for Sunday) just try and play my game hopefully (be a) little more consistent and be steady and have some fun and they’ll result in some birdies,” Conners said.
;)
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