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  • Stefan Bajcetic faces new setback in Liverpool loan as coach expresses concern

    Stefan Bajcetic faces new setback in Liverpool loan as coach expresses concern

    Liverpool midfielder Stefan Bajcetic has had a rough start to his loan spell at Las Palmas after being forced off with an injury during his debut. The Spaniard completed a temporary move to the La Liga side this week following a tough period at RB Salzburg.

    The 20-year-old’s time in Austria was cut short, with just eight starts under his belt after joining from Liverpool alongside former Reds assistant manager Pep Lijnders. However, Lijnders was dismissed from his position just before the winter break in mid-December.

    On Saturday, Bajcetic was given his first start for Las Palmas in their 2-1 loss to Villarreal, playing 78 minutes before being substituted due to a calf issue. The injury occurred after a physical challenge with Villarreal’s Tajon Buchanan.

    This was only Bajcetic’s second appearance in months, having made a brief appearance in Salzburg’s 4-1 defeat to Atletico Madrid last week in the Champions League.

    Las Palmas head coach Diego Martinez acknowledged that the calf problem might be linked to Bajcetic’s lack of recent competitive action.

    “Basically, it’s a bit of a miracle that Sandro is able to play today,” Martinez said. “And given the situation he came from, it’s further proof of the commitment he has to us, to the club, to the team.

    “And obviously, like Stefan, they are players who, for one reason or another, have not trained for a long time and have not had continuity in training.

    “In principle, they are normal overloads that have gone up in the femoral muscles, but they have to wait, although it’s as if nothing had happened.”

    More news…..

    Complete list of Liverpool transfers for January 2025 as 7 players depart

    Liverpool did not make any signings during the 2025 January transfer window

    Liverpool did not make any signings during the 2025 January transfer window, but several young players left the club either permanently or on loan.

    A quiet transfer window typically indicates a well-managed club, and given the solid state of their squad, Liverpool had no need for major signings this month.

    With only Trent Alexander-Arnold currently a concern due to injury, following the returns to training of Diogo Jota, Joe Gomez, and Curtis Jones last week, there was no urgency to bring in cover. The team’s impressive performance throughout the season meant significant additions were unnecessary.

    In terms of departures, there was interest from Saudi Arabian clubs in Darwin Nunez, but Liverpool was not open to selling him this month, though a move could be considered at the end of the season. Federico Chiesa had also been linked with a return to Serie A due to limited playing time, but his situation at Anfield appears more promising after recent appearances.

    Although there were no major arrivals or exits, several youngsters left on loan or permanently. Stefan Bajcetic joined Las Palmas until the end of the season after his move to RB Salzburg was cancelled, while Dominic Corness, Kaide Gordon, and Calvin Ramsay all completed loan moves to other British clubs. Corness moved to Gillingham, Gordon to Portsmouth, and Ramsay to Kilmarnock.

    Jayden Danns’ loan move to Sunderland was confirmed on Tuesday, along with news of a minor injury and a new contract. Here’s the full list of Liverpool’s January transfer dealings:

    Incomings
    None

    Outgoings
    Marcelo Pitaluga – Permanent to Fluminense
    Tom Hill – Permanent to Harrogate
    Luca Furnell-Gill – Permanent to Tottenham
    Calvin Ramsay – Loan to Kilmarnock
    Stefan Bajcetic – Loan to Las Palmas
    Dominic Corness – Loan to Gillingham
    Kaide Gordon – Loan to Portsmouth
    Jayden Danns – Loan to Sunderland

  • Oklahoma OL Commit Will Conroy Striving to Plant Crimson Roots at IMG

    Will Conroy

    Live Report: Will Conroy’s Transfer to IMG Academy and His Commitment to Oklahoma

    If you’re looking to identify one of the top high school football players in the country, look no further than IMG Academy. The prestigious athletic boarding school in Bradenton, Florida, consistently attracts the nation’s elite talent. And one standout player who’s recently earned his place there is Will Conroy, an offensive line commit to Oklahoma.

    Conroy, who made the decision to transfer last month from St. Ignatius High School in Cleveland, Ohio, told OUInsider that choosing to join IMG Academy was a relatively easy decision. As he puts it, it was all about the chance to compete against the best.

    “Just the opportunity to play against the best, and wake up and train every day,” Conroy shared. “And I’m in Florida; it’s a beautiful place. It’s just the opportunity to play against the best, because you never know if you’re the best until you play the best. It’s going smoothly. Just training every day, working out.”

    Not long after Conroy arrived in Florida, the Oklahoma coaching staff, including head coach Brent Venables, took advantage of the January contact period to pay him a visit. Conroy reflected on the experience, saying, “The whole coaching staff came. It was good; it was really good to see them and just be around the guys, obviously. I’m taking an official visit there. So it’s good.”

    Ben Arbuckle, Oklahoma’s new offensive coordinator, couldn’t attend the visit due to his time in California with Jaden O’Neal, a four-star quarterback commit. As a result, Conroy hasn’t yet had the chance to meet Arbuckle face-to-face. However, Venables’ message to Conroy left a lasting impression, with the head coach emphasizing the importance of passion.

    “Passion, for sure,” Conroy recalled. “Just having passion in everything you do. And he’s such a fiery guy that it’s hard not to feel how much he loves the game and loves Oklahoma football.”

  • Tennessee vs. Oklahoma Prediction: Sooners Aim to Strengthen Their Resume with Upset Victory Over No. 4 Volunteers

    Tennessee

    Good afternoon, basketball fans! We’re in for an exciting college hoops showdown today as the Oklahoma Sooners host the Tennessee Volunteers in what promises to be a thrilling match. Oklahoma, on the cusp of the NCAA Tournament bubble, will look to make a statement against the fourth-ranked Volunteers, who are fighting for a No. 1 seed in the upcoming Big Dance.

    Can Tennessee’s renowned defense contain a high-scoring Sooners team averaging nearly 80 points per game? Will Oklahoma, led by freshman star point guard Jeremiah Fears, who is questionable due to injury, pull off a major upset and ignite a court-storming at the Lloyd Noble Center? Let’s break it down.

    Betting Preview: Tennessee vs. Oklahoma

    The betting odds, courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook, are accurate as of Saturday, February 8, 2025:

    • Spread: Tennessee -5, Oklahoma -4
    • Money Line: Tennessee -218, Oklahoma +180
    • Over/Under: 138.5 points
    • Game Time: 12 p.m. ET
    • Location: Lloyd Noble Center, Norman, OK
    • Broadcast: ESPN

    Oklahoma comes into this matchup with a 16-6 record, including a 3-6 mark in SEC play. They’ve covered 50% of the time this season but only 44% in conference games. However, they’ve been performing better lately, covering in four of their last five outings.

    The Sooners are an up-tempo team, and 13 of their 22 games have hit the over, with 6 of 9 in SEC play reaching that mark. At home, 8 of 12 games have surpassed the point total.

    On the other hand, Tennessee boasts a 19-4 record, with four losses all coming in SEC play. The Volunteers are 14-9 against the spread (ATS) this season, and they’ve covered 60% of the time when favored. Defensively dominant, Tennessee’s games often stay under the listed point total, with just 9 of their 23 games surpassing it. In SEC play, four of their 10 games have hit the over.

    Power Rankings and Betting Insights

    Surprisingly, the CSN Power Rankings have Oklahoma favored by -4, likely due to their home court advantage and four Quad 1 victories. In contrast, Tennessee is ranked much lower than their No. 4 spot in the AP Poll, sitting at No. 21 in the CSN rankings. Oklahoma comes in at No. 46 but still favored in this matchup.

    Prediction: Tennessee vs. Oklahoma

    Tennessee has racked up seven Quad 1 wins, and another victory here would add to that impressive list. However, they’ll face a tough challenge in Norman, where the Sooners will be hungry for an upset, especially with Jeremiah Fears leading the charge.

    Fears, averaging 15.9 points and 4.2 assists per game, has been a key factor in Oklahoma’s three conference victories. However, his status for the game is in question due to injury. If he can’t play, it could seriously impact the Sooners’ chances. Oklahoma will rely heavily on their leading scorer, 6’7″ senior Jalon Moore, who is averaging 17.9 points and 5.7 rebounds per game.

    As for Tennessee, they are led by Zakai Ziegler, the SEC Defensive Player of the Year, who averages 12.7 points and 7.5 assists per game. Ziegler’s defensive presence will be crucial against a high-scoring Oklahoma team. Fifth-year senior Chaz Lanier has been a great addition for Tennessee, leading the team with 17.5 points per game, while Igor Milicic Jr., another senior, provides versatility on both ends of the floor.

    With or without Fears, I predict this game will stay under the 138.5 point total. Tennessee’s defense and Ziegler’s pressure on Oklahoma’s ball handlers will likely keep the score lower than expected. While the Volunteers’ previous game saw an 85-81 finish, that’s more of an anomaly for them.

    I also like Tennessee to cover the -5 spread. The Volunteers are the stronger team overall, and despite a potential upset-minded Oklahoma team, Tennessee’s depth and experience should carry them to a double-digit win.

    Final Picks:

    • Tennessee -5
    • Under 138.5 points

    Prediction: Tennessee 73, Oklahoma 62

    Stay tuned for more updates as we head into this high-stakes matchup!

  • Shane Beamer Claims SEC Deserves Automatic CFB Playoff Bids Following Tough Bowl Season

    Shane Beamer

    Anyone who watched the bowl games at the close of 2024 and into the start of 2025 would know that the SEC endured a rough postseason in college football.

    Texas A&M fell to USC, Tennessee was crushed by Ohio State in the College Football Playoff, Alabama was defeated by a lackluster Michigan squad, Navy triumphed over Oklahoma, Illinois beat South Carolina, Arizona State had a potential fourth-quarter win over Texas overturned due to poor officiating, Notre Dame topped Georgia, and finally, Ohio State comfortably handled Texas, securing a second consecutive title for the Big Ten.

    While the SEC did manage some bowl victories and clearly had several top teams, no one who closely follows college football could argue that the results proved the SEC warranted more respect or automatic advantages.

    That is, except for South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer, apparently.

    Shane Beamer Advocates for SEC Automatic Bids to the CFP

    Shane Beamer

    In an interview with On3’s Pete Nakos, Shane Beamer expressed his belief that the SEC deserves automatic bids to the College Football Playoff, stating that “it’s just different” in the SEC, which he believes justifies the conference’s place in the playoff.

    “The fact of the matter is, we beat the ACC Champion on their field this year and didn’t get in…I do believe this league is just different than others and there has to be some consideration.”

    That’s certainly an interesting perspective, though not one without its flaws.

    South Carolina suffered a loss to Illinois in a bowl game. Illinois, with a 9-4 season record, is hardly a team that warrants a playoff spot. They narrowly defeated Old Dominion by just four points at home, 23-19. They were also defeated by LSU, who finished unranked, and managed only three points in a 27-3 loss to Ole Miss. To top it off, they were defeated by a four-loss Alabama team.

    While they did secure a win against Clemson, a single victory over another conference champion doesn’t automatically guarantee playoff entry, even with 12 spots available.

    The idea that “it’s just different in the SEC” needs to be put to rest—yesterday, not today. Yes, the SEC boasts many excellent programs, some with storied success and others with recent triumphs. They also enjoy strong fan support and have a media presence that emphasizes the conference’s unique status. However, this “difference” is largely overstated.

    When USC was dominant in college football, there was no talk of the Pac-10 being “just different.” The same applies to Alabama’s dominance, as other SEC teams have acted as though Nick Saban’s success has somehow made the entire conference invincible in theoretical matchups.

    In reality, the SEC might have some advantages over other top conferences. For instance, the Big Ten teams now have to deal with cross-country travel, with West Coast teams traveling to places like Maryland or New Jersey. The SEC, however, remains primarily centered in the South, and even with expansion, travel remains easier. Moreover, the SEC plays eight conference games compared to the Big Ten’s nine, often using that extra non-conference game to schedule an FCS team for a de facto bye week.

    With 12 playoff spots, South Carolina only needed to avoid three losses to make it into the postseason. They couldn’t do that, and that’s why they didn’t make the cut.

  • Marcus Lattimore talks about his South Carolina football career and life following injuries.

    In a heartfelt interview on the "Glory Daze" podcast, Marcus Lattimore

    In a heartfelt interview on the “Glory Daze” podcast, Marcus Lattimore sat down with former NFL quarterback Johnny Manziel to discuss his remarkable career with South Carolina football, the devastating injuries that shaped his path, and his transition to life beyond the sport.

    On October 27, 2012, during a game against the Tennessee Volunteers, Marcus Lattimore, South Carolina’s star running back, suffered a catastrophic knee injury that would forever alter his career and remain etched in the memories of college football fans. The sight of Lattimore lying on the field, his leg severely bent, is an image that still resonates with those who witnessed it.

    “I vividly remember that day,” Lattimore recalled. “I was sitting on the couch with my then-husband, watching the South Carolina vs. Tennessee game. The play unfolded… Lattimore’s determined run, the collision with defenders, and then… his leg, unnaturally suspended in the air. I screamed, and my husband leaped up in shock, his hands covering his mouth.” The room fell silent as the severity of the injury set in.

    The atmosphere in Williams-Brice Stadium was somber as players from both teams knelt in prayer, and fans stood motionless, trying to comprehend the gravity of the situation. The emotional weight of that moment was evident, with tears flowing freely from players, teammates, and spectators alike.

    That moment, the injury, remains a defining memory for many. It serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of athletes’ careers and the deep emotional connection fans have to the game. Lattimore’s resilience, despite the adversity, continues to inspire, leaving an enduring legacy in the South Carolina community and beyond.

    In the recent podcast interview with Johnny Manziel, Lattimore opened up about his football journey, sharing insights into his time at South Carolina, the challenges injuries posed to his career, and his life after football.

    Commitment to South Carolina:

    Lattimore reflected on his decision to commit to the University of South Carolina, noting the significant influence of then-head coach Steve Spurrier and the warm, supportive community that made him feel at home. He expressed immense pride in representing his home state on a national stage.

    As one of the most sought-after recruits in South Carolina’s history, Lattimore wasted no time in making his mark. His freshman year was nothing short of spectacular, earning national recognition and establishing himself as a cornerstone player for the Gamecocks. His performances were crucial in elevating the program’s status during his time there.

    Memorable Moments:

    Looking back on his college career, Lattimore shared reflections on key moments that defined his legacy at South Carolina.

    • Historic Victory: Lattimore recalled South Carolina’s unforgettable win over Alabama in 2010, marking the program’s first-ever victory over a No. 1 ranked team. He was a driving force in that monumental achievement.
    • Personal Milestones: He also discussed setting the school record for touchdowns and the strong bond he shared with his teammates, which played a pivotal role in their collective success.

    Career-Altering Injuries:

    Lattimore went on to recount the knee injuries that ultimately ended his promising football career, revealing the intense physical and emotional challenges he faced. The extensive rehabilitation required to return to the field was a daunting journey, but his determination never wavered.

    Transitioning Beyond Football:

    The conversation turned to life after football, as Lattimore opened up about the difficult transition from athlete to finding a new sense of purpose. He spoke passionately about his efforts to mentor young athletes, focusing on the importance of mental health and resilience. His initiatives aim to help athletes prepare for life beyond their careers, ensuring they are equipped with the skills and support necessary to navigate post-sports challenges.

    Shared Experiences with Manziel:

    Throughout the interview, both Lattimore and Manziel reflected on the immense pressures that come with being high-profile college athletes. They discussed the challenges of handling public scrutiny, the profound impact of injuries on their careers, and the mental health struggles that often accompany such experiences. Their conversation shed light on the complexities of collegiate athletics and the importance of having a strong support system to navigate the ups and downs.

    Legacy and Influence:

    Lattimore’s legacy at South Carolina extends far beyond his athletic accomplishments. His humility and integrity left an indelible mark on the program, and his decision to remain close to home throughout his college career highlighted his commitment to his community. Even after his playing days ended, his dedication to mentoring and supporting young athletes reinforced his desire to give back.

    In the interview, Lattimore also discussed his involvement in various mentoring programs, underscoring his ongoing role in helping young players cope with the pressures of collegiate sports.

    Ultimately, Marcus Lattimore’s legacy at South Carolina is defined by more than just his on-field success. His remarkable combination of skill, resilience, and character has solidified him as one of the university’s most beloved figures.

    This conversation between two football legends offers profound insights into the resilience athletes must cultivate when faced with unexpected challenges. It also emphasizes the critical need for mental health awareness in the world of sports.

  • Liverpool receives approval to finalize £67m transfer as ‘interest’ grows.

    Liverpool receives approval to finalize £67m transfer as ‘interest’ grows.

    Liverpool’s Interest in Xavi Simons as Summer Transfer Looms

    Liverpool are reportedly eyeing RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons as a potential summer signing. The Reds will have to wait until the end of the season to bolster their squad, as they chose not to pursue any January reinforcements.

    Simons has been at the center of transfer speculation since his standout performances for the Netherlands at last summer’s European Championships. Although the talented playmaker returned to Leipzig on loan, it was confirmed last week that he has secured a permanent move to the Bundesliga side in a deal worth €50million (£41.7million).

    With the January transfer window now closed, the focus has shifted to what Liverpool might do come summer. In recent days, Arne Slot has been asked about potential additions to Anfield, and Simons has been mentioned as a player the Reds could target.

    According to Sport Bild’s Christian Falk, via Caught Offside, Liverpool are “interested” in signing the 21-year-old but will face stiff competition from both Manchester United and Manchester City. The report suggests that Simons could potentially leave Leipzig in the summer, just months after his permanent move, with Leipzig possibly valuing him at around €80million (£66.7million).

    So far this season, Simons has netted five goals for Leipzig, and his contract with the club runs until the summer of 2027. This deal could potentially complicate his departure, but Liverpool’s interest in the dynamic Dutch international appears to remain strong as they look to strengthen their squad for the future.

    More news….

    Darwin Nunez angry as Liverpool ‘halt £70m transfer’

    Liverpool have made a bold move in the transfer market by rejecting a substantial £70 million bid from Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr for striker Darwin Nunez. The Uruguayan forward, however, is reportedly unhappy with the decision.

    According to sources (via The Sun), Nunez had been open to negotiations with Al Nassr, the club where Cristiano Ronaldo plays. However, Liverpool swiftly rejected the offer, making it clear that Nunez was not available for sale.

    In response, Al Nassr shifted their focus to Aston Villa’s Jhon Duran, successfully completing a £64 million deal for the Colombian forward instead.

    Nunez’s frustration increased when he was omitted from Liverpool’s squad for their Champions League loss to PSV. Nonetheless, manager Arne Slot quickly explained that Nunez’s absence was due to illness rather than any transfer-related issues.

    This season, Nunez has scored six goals and provided four assists in 29 appearances. Although his performances have been inconsistent, he has had standout moments, such as a crucial last-minute brace in a 2-0 win over Brentford.

    Liverpool paid £85 million to acquire him from Benfica in 2022, and his future at Anfield is still unclear. Reports suggest the club may revisit his situation in the summer, potentially opening the door for a move.

    Currently, Nunez is back in training and has traveled with the squad for their upcoming Premier League match against Bournemouth. It remains to be seen if Arne Slot will include him in the starting lineup after the recent drama.

    With the transfer window now closed, speculation may quiet for the time being. However, one thing is clear: this won’t be the last we hear about Darwin Nunez’s future.

  • Arne Slot’s ‘underrated’ Liverpool player breaks eight-year record in victory over Tottenham

    Arne Slot’s ‘underrated’ Liverpool player breaks eight-year record in victory over Tottenham

    Dominik Szoboszlai

    Live update here, as Liverpool dominate Tottenham in their Carabao Cup clash and secure a spot in the final. One standout performance came from Dominik Szoboszlai, who was nothing short of tireless on the pitch, even breaking a Liverpool record that was previously set by Philippe Coutinho.

    Szoboszlai started in the Reds’ commanding win over Spurs on Thursday, and once again, he was at the heart of the action. He netted the third goal of the night, practically sealing Liverpool’s place in the final. However, it wasn’t just the goal that impressed. The former RB Leipzig man racked up some seriously impressive stats, with five shots and five created chances, leading the way in both categories for Liverpool.

    Additionally, Szoboszlai made nine touches in the Tottenham box, further showing his attacking prowess. But his contributions weren’t only in the offensive third. He also won seven out of 15 duels and made nine recoveries, underlining his all-around performance.

    These numbers are particularly remarkable, as they haven’t been seen since Philippe Coutinho during a memorable 7-0 win against Maribor in 2017. Szoboszlai’s performance comes hot on the heels of some glowing praise from Liverpool manager Arne Slot, who had this to say after the recent win against Ipswich: “Pleasing to see for him because he’s been working so, so hard for the team every single game and that he now comes off the pitch with a goal is also pleasing for him.”

    Slot went on: “If you zoom in on Dom [Szoboszlai], I think at the beginning of the season he would have played that ball to Mo, which most of the time was a very good choice because Mo can definitely score a goal as well. And now he decided to go for the goal himself and scored the goal himself. Nice for him because, in my opinion, he is a bit underestimated.”

    “Not by me, but he doesn’t always get the credits for the fact he is very important for this team, because his work-rate is un-be-lievable. He just keeps on running with the highest intensity, and that is so important for a team that wants to compete for something.”

    While Slot clearly holds Szoboszlai in high regard, Jamie Carragher, a former Liverpool star, isn’t entirely convinced just yet. He recently said: “I’m not Dominik Szoboszlai’s biggest fan. He’s great off the ball, but he’s a no.10 and only scored three goals.” It seems there’s still a bit of debate about Szoboszlai’s overall impact.

  • Auburn Receivers React to Jackson Arnold’s Debut: ‘This Is Different’

    "Auburn Receivers React to Jackson Arnold's Debut: 'This Is Different'"

    In a major shift for the Auburn Tigers, head coach Hugh Freeze is turning to new blood at quarterback for the 2025 season. As key players such as Payton Thorne, Walker White, Hank Brown, and Holden Geriner leave through transfers or eligibility expiration, the Tigers are bringing in Jackson Arnold from Oklahoma and highly touted freshman Deuce Knight. Despite losing some established talent, Freeze’s new recruits bring promise, with Arnold already impressing Auburn’s receiving corps.

    Arnold’s Potential to Reshape Auburn’s Offense

    Auburn struggled through a tough 2024 season, finishing with a disappointing 5-7 record and only two conference wins. Despite this, the arrival of Jackson Arnold—who never had the chance to face Auburn while at Oklahoma—brings renewed hope. Arnold’s time at Oklahoma was solid, with a strong touchdown-to-interception ratio. He completed 154 of 246 passes for 1,421 yards and 12 touchdowns over 10 games, though his average of fewer than six yards per attempt raised questions. Some of this can be attributed to Oklahoma’s injury-ridden receiving corps, which hampered his ability to fully capitalize on his skills.

    Looking ahead, there are high expectations for Arnold’s contribution in 2025. Coach Hugh Freeze has already seen promising signs. “Our receivers are like, ‘This is different. This ball is spinning the right way,’” Freeze said during an appearance at the Senior Bowl in Mobile. He also praised Arnold’s ability to master the fundamentals of quarterback play, noting that his high school success as Gatorade Player of the Year speaks to his raw talent.

    “I just am a firm believer that—I don’t know, I believe in him,” Freeze continued. “I believe in our system and think he’s a really good fit for it. We can restore whatever confidence he may have lost for whatever reason,” Freeze added, emphasizing Arnold’s work ethic and commitment to improving.

    Arnold’s brief time at Oklahoma saw him both starting and being benched. After facing Auburn, he regained his starting role and finished the season as the Sooners’ starting quarterback in their final five games.

    College Football Analyst Cautions That Arnold May Not Suit Hugh Freeze’s Offensive System

    While the Auburn faithful are excited about the future, there’s some caution in the air. Brad Crawford of 247Sports raised a concern about whether Arnold is the right fit for Freeze’s offensive style. “As bad as the Auburn offense was at times last season from a giveaway standpoint, the Tigers still went downfield often and had success with explosive plays through the air,” Crawford noted. “That’s right—the guy the Sooners temporarily benched during last fall’s spiral could be one of the SEC’s best in 2025. Arnold was sacked 34 times in 10 starts last season, including 16 times total in losses to South Carolina and Ole Miss.”

    Crawford added that Auburn’s success with Arnold hinges on Freeze getting the most out of him. “Hugh Freeze has to hit a grand slam with this Arnold acquisition—or else,” he warned.

    With the pressure on, fans in eastern Alabama are eager for a revival. If Jackson Arnold lives up to the hype and helps turn Auburn’s fortunes around, the 2025 season could mark a defining moment in the Tigers’ history.

  • Could former elite recruit become the breakout star the Oklahoma Sooners offense needs in 2025 at a struggling position?

    Could a former elite recruit become the breakout star the Oklahoma Sooners offense needs in 2025 at a struggling position?

    As we look back at Oklahoma’s 2024 season, one of the most glaring weak spots on the team was their tight end unit, a tough reality considering the struggles of both the quarterback and offensive line. It’s still puzzling that the coach responsible for this unit is sticking around, but there’s hope for the future, and that optimism rests squarely on the shoulders of one key player: Davon Mitchell.

    Mitchell, a former elite recruit, made the leap from the class of 2025 to 2024, offering a glimmer of hope for a position that desperately needs to step up. The four-star tight end brings immense athleticism to the table and holds the potential to become a game-changer for Oklahoma’s offense by 2025.

    That said, Mitchell’s freshman year wasn’t smooth sailing. He spent much of the season focused on adapting to the offense and getting his body into prime shape, which ultimately led to the team exploring other options at tight end. But here’s where the shift began: during the team’s bowl game preparations, Mitchell started to turn heads. Coaches were quick to praise his growth throughout the month off before their matchup with Navy, signaling a bright future ahead.

    While 2024 didn’t quite see Mitchell find his rhythm within the Sooners’ offense, there’s nothing stopping him from stepping into a featured role under Ben Arbuckle, the new offensive coordinator, in 2025. With Oklahoma desperately needing playmakers to support quarterback John Mateer, Mitchell’s potential has never been more crucial.

    In fact, his expected breakout might explain why the Sooners weren’t overly aggressive in seeking additional talent for the tight end position via the transfer portal. Instead, they concentrated their efforts on keeping key players, with Mitchell’s potential being a major factor in their decisions.

    The tight end position has been a weakness for Oklahoma for years now, and as we head into 2025, Mitchell just might be the answer they’ve been waiting for. The Sooners need someone to step up, and Mitchell could very well be that player.

  • Liverpool FC lineup choices against Plymouth – 10 alterations, with Jota set to start?

    Liverpool FC lineup choices against Plymouth – 10 alterations, with Jota set to start?

    Liverpool gears up for their clash against Plymouth. With only two injuries in the squad, manager Arne Slot has a wide range of options to select from and could make as many as 10 changes from the side that faced Tottenham last time out.

    While it’s important not to overlook Sunday’s opponents, especially given that Plymouth managed a draw against Liverpool back in 2017 when they were still a fourth-division team, Slot should still see this match as an opportunity to rotate his squad. Times have certainly changed, with Liverpool boasting a much stronger, nearly fully-fit squad that was inherited from Jürgen Klopp.

    Here’s what we know about the team for this upcoming match:

    Team News

    In his press conference, Arne Slot provided the following updates:

    • Trent Alexander-Arnold won’t be available for this match and is also a doubt for the upcoming game against Everton.
    • Tyler Morton has sustained a shoulder injury and will be out for “at least four weeks”.
    • Slot confirmed he will “definitely use a few players that haven’t played that much”.
    • Alisson was rested against Tottenham but is not injured and should be available for this fixture.

    Liverpool’s Potential Lineup vs. Plymouth

    Based on the available information, this is how Liverpool might line up against Plymouth:

    Alisson; Bradley, Quansah, Gomez, Tsimikas; Endo, Mac Allister, Elliott; Chiesa, Jota, Diaz.

    Despite the expectation that several key players will be rested, it’s still tough to predict Slot’s exact lineup. Much of the coach’s decisions will hinge on how seriously the Reds are taking this fixture. For instance, Mac Allister could feature alongside Curtis Jones if Slot deems it necessary.

    There’s also the matter of who will be in goal. While Caoimhin Kelleher started in the third round, Slot may prefer to bring Alisson back in to keep him sharp ahead of future fixtures.

    In terms of defensive changes, Wataru Endo will likely play in the backline, with Gomez moving to right-back to give Bradley a break before the match against Everton. This will also be the first time in a month that Jones starts consecutive matches.

    McConnell, whom Slot spoke highly of in his pre-match comments, will likely join Jones and Elliott in midfield. Here’s an alternative lineup Slot could field:

    Kelleher; Gomez, Quansah, Endo, Tsimikas; McConnell, Jones, Elliott; Chiesa, Jota, Diaz.

    The reality is, Liverpool could afford to play a much younger side and still have a good chance of progressing. However, given the excellent health of the squad, this may be a perfect opportunity to give senior players who need minutes a run-out.

    Additionally, with Liverpool U21s and Liverpool U18s also in action this weekend, we may get a glimpse of whether the likes of Trey Nyoni and Rio Ngumoha feature in those games, hinting at potential involvement in the senior squad.

    Stay tuned for more updates as we approach match day!