John Schneider explains controversial decision to keep Kevin Gausman in Game 2 after Will Smith home run

The Los Angeles Dodgers returned to baffling opponents with brilliant pitching in Game 2 of the World Series. Yoshinobu Yamamoto threw his second straight complete game of the postseason on Saturday, helping the Dodgers tie the series.

Yamamoto’s outstanding performance overshadowed a strong start from Kevin Gausman. The Toronto Blue Jays ace managed to match Yamamoto frame for frame through six innings, turning Game 2 into a true pitchers’ duel.

The Dodgers finally broke through in the seventh inning with solo home runs by Will Smith and Max Muncy. LA’s 3-1 lead proved to be more than enough for a dialed-in Yamamoto, who closed out the game brilliantly.

However, some Blue Jays fans questioned manager John Schneider’s decision to leave Gausman in the game to face the Dodgers’ lineup for the third time, especially after Smith’s 404-foot homer.

“We try to really take that into consideration. Got Shohei [for the third time in the sixth inning],” Schneider explained, according to TSN. “I think at that point it’s just game state. So I trusted Kev to get out of that. Even though it’s his third time. You kinda watch what he’s doing.”

Gausman started the seventh inning by retiring Freddie Freeman. He then faced Will Smith, who worked the count to full before Gausman threw six straight fastballs. Smith clobbered the final four-seamer into the second deck in left field, giving Los Angeles a 2-1 lead.

At this point, Gausman had thrown 72 pitches. Schneider chose to keep the two-time All-Star in the game, and Gausman struck out Teoscar Hernandez swinging. But he wouldn’t escape the inning unscathed, as Max Muncy belted another fastball deep to left field, extending the Dodgers’ lead to 3-1.

Louis Varland relieved Gausman and retired Kike Hernandez to end the seventh inning. Although Varland ran into some trouble the following inning as LA extended its lead further to 5-1, Schneider’s decision to leave Gausman in against Muncy did not ultimately change the outcome.

Yamamoto only needed a one-run lead as he mowed down 20 straight Blue Jays to close out his complete game. Meanwhile, Gausman had found a groove earlier in Game 2. After Smith’s RBI single in the first inning, the 34-year-old starter retired 17 consecutive Dodgers before Smith’s seventh-inning home run ended the streak.

Yamamoto and Gausman made history as the first starters to retire 17+ straight batters in a postseason game, highlighting the exceptional pitching duel that defined Game 2 of the World Series.
https://clutchpoints.com/mlb/toronto-blue-jays/blue-jays-news-john-schneider-kevin-gausman-game-2-will-smith-home-run

Eagles rumors: When AJ Brown could return to the field for Philadelphia

AJ Brown, the Philadelphia Eagles’ star wide receiver, will not play in Sunday’s game against the New York Giants but is expected to return after the team’s bye week for the November 10 matchup against the Green Bay Packers, according to NFL insider Ian Rapoport.

Brown missed practices this week due to a hamstring issue, leading the Eagles to list him as out for Week 8. Despite some missed time, Brown has been a key part of Philadelphia’s passing game this season. According to ESPN, he has recorded 29 catches for 395 yards and three touchdowns through seven games. These numbers highlight both his big-play ability and a relatively lighter target share compared to previous seasons.

Last week, Brown showcased his potential in the Eagles’ 28-22 win over the Minnesota Vikings by finishing with 121 yards and two touchdowns. His performance helped stabilize Philadelphia’s offense alongside a strong outing from quarterback Jalen Hurts. This display emphasized why the Eagles prefer to be cautious with him moving forward.

When healthy, Brown significantly impacts coverage schemes and creates opportunities for his teammates. Head coach Nick Sirianni and the medical staff plan to use the upcoming bye week to carefully manage Brown’s recovery. This approach aligns with the team’s usual strategy for soft-tissue injuries, which can be worsened by returning too soon.

The early estimate for Brown’s return in Week 10 provides the Eagles with a valuable window to complete his treatment, monitor his workouts, and ensure a clean lift in practice before facing the Packers.
https://clutchpoints.com/nfl/philadelphia-eagles/eagles-rumors-when-aj-brown-return-philadelphia

“One of us is on a suicide mission”: Denny Hamlin makes feelings clear about 23XI vs NASCAR lawsuit

Denny Hamlin recently made a blunt remark regarding 23XI Racing’s ongoing legal battle with NASCAR.

Speaking at a press conference held at Martinsville Speedway, Hamlin hinted that the sanctioning body might be headed toward failure.

His candid comments have drawn attention as the legal dispute between 23XI Racing and NASCAR continues to unfold.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/nascar/news-one-us-suicide-mission-denny-hamlin-makes-feelings-clear-23xi-vs-nascar-lawsuit

Adam Schefter drops major AJ Brown trade deadline update

Will AJ Brown Stick with the Philadelphia Eagles?

The NFL trade deadline is fast approaching, and wide receiver AJ Brown’s future with the Philadelphia Eagles remains a hot topic. NFL insider Adam Schefter recently provided a major update on Brown’s status, fueling speculation about a potential move.

According to Schefter, “Teams still are eyeing Brown as the deadline approaches, but the defending Super Bowl champion Eagles are not looking to move the three-time Pro Bowler.” While the Eagles are open to listening to trade offers, Schefter notes, “Philadelphia would not be willing to part with Brown for anything less than a blockbuster offer, which is not expected to be forthcoming.”

This stance suggests that while there is interest around the league in Brown, the Eagles’ general manager Howie Roseman is holding firm on the wide receiver’s value.

Brown’s Availability for Eagles vs. Giants

In addition to trade rumors, Brown’s health is also a concern as Philadelphia prepares for a key Week 8 matchup against the New York Giants. The star wideout is sidelined due to a hamstring injury and has missed practice all week, confirming he will not play in the upcoming contest.

Reports indicate that Brown has scar tissue on his hamstring, which is affecting his performance and recovery. Notably, this game will mark the first he has missed in the current season.

The Eagles are eager to bounce back after a tough loss to the Giants on Thursday Night Football less than three weeks ago at MetLife Stadium. However, they will have to do so without AJ Brown in the lineup.

As the trade deadline approaches and Brown works through his injury, all eyes will be on Philadelphia to see whether the dynamic wide receiver remains a key part of their championship aspirations.
https://clutchpoints.com/nfl/philadelphia-eagles/eagles-news-adam-schefter-drops-major-aj-brown-trade-deadline-update

[WATCH] Jeff Hardy performs another death-defying stunt at the age of 48 at Halloween Havoc 2025

Jeff Hardy is now 48 years old, and despite his age, he continues to perform some incredible, death-defying stunts that have long defined his legacy.

However, not every stunt goes as planned. Unfortunately, this time, one of his daring moves backfired.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/wwe/news-watch-jeff-hardy-performs-another-death-defying-stunt-age-48-halloween-havoc-2025

WWE Champion Shows Up On Crutches; Hands Title To Top Star

WWE NXT Halloween Havoc has been making headlines around the world, thanks to the thrilling action featured on the show. Fans have been captivated by the intense matches and spectacular moments that define this special event.

Among all the exciting bouts, a massive title match has now grabbed the spotlight, drawing widespread attention from wrestling enthusiasts everywhere. This high-stakes contest promises to deliver unforgettable drama and elevate the excitement surrounding Halloween Havoc.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/wwe/news-wwe-champion-shows-up-on-crutches-hands-title-to-top-star

Vanderbilt football’s Makhilyn Young breaks off incredible 80-yard touchdown vs. Missouri

Tied 3-3 late in the third quarter of their top-15 showdown with the Missouri Tigers, the Vanderbilt Commodores struck first with a highlight-reel 80-yard touchdown run from Makhilyn Young. This electrifying play gave Vanderbilt the lead for the first time and set them on the path to a pivotal 17-10 victory.

The battle between 10th-ranked Vanderbilt and 15th-ranked Missouri featured two of the SEC’s most surprising programs this season. Both teams entered the game with 6-1 records and genuine aspirations of earning a spot in the College Football Playoff. Today’s win serves as a critical differentiator for the Commodores in the eyes of the selection committee.

Locked in a tight defensive battle, Missouri squandered several opportunities to take control. In the third quarter alone, Tigers quarterback Beau Pribula was stopped short on a 4th and Goal from the 1-yard line, and kicker Robert Meyer missed a crucial 29-yard field goal attempt. On the very next play after the missed field goal, Vanderbilt seized momentum with Young’s explosive touchdown run.

Senior running back Makhilyn Young entered the game with 296 rushing yards on the season, averaging an impressive 11.0 yards per carry along with four touchdowns. He is a key piece of a deep Vanderbilt running back rotation that also includes Sedrick Alexander and Jamezell Lassiter. Young’s relentless passion and improvisational skills have helped head coach Clark Lea’s team reach heights not seen in decades. Vanderbilt’s 7-1 start this season is their best since 1950.

Vanderbilt’s defense held strong to preserve the seven-point lead, denying Missouri a game-tying score in the closing seconds. The Commodores now look ahead to a crucial road trip next week against the struggling Texas Longhorns as they continue their pursuit of a historic College Football Playoff appearance.
https://clutchpoints.com/ncaa-football/vanderbilt-football-news-makhilyn-young-breaks-off-80-yard-touchdown-missouri

Mavericks’ guard dilemma dealt even more uncertainty with latest update

The Dallas Mavericks dropped home games versus the San Antonio Spurs and Washington Wizards to begin their 2025-26 campaign, demoralizing an already emotionally vulnerable fan base with an abysmal brand of offense. More hard times could await the Mavs following the latest injury report.

Brandon Williams is listed as out for Sunday’s showdown with the visiting Toronto Raptors due to personal reasons, according to ClutchPoints reporter Joey Mistretta. Daniel Gafford could also miss the inter-conference matchup, as he is considered doubtful. The trusted big man suffered an ankle sprain in training camp and has yet to debut this season.

Although Williams has logged 19 scoreless minutes through two contests, he can provide the team with needed offensive production in the backcourt. The Mavericks’ guard depth chart is already worryingly thin at the moment. Kyrie Irving is in the throes of a lengthy recovery process after tearing his ACL last March and will not return any time soon. Dante Exum is also sidelined with a knee injury.

Complicating matters further, free agency signing D’Angelo Russell is having a tough time in the infancy of his Dallas tenure, shooting 1-of-9 from the field in 24 minutes. It is obviously far too early to panic, but the Mavs have questions to answer.

Thus far, Dallas ranks last in the NBA with 99.5 points per game and a 40.4% field goal percentage. The 25-year-old Brandon Williams could be tasked with logging more minutes until the team gets healthier. Hopefully, he is alright amid this forthcoming absence.

Since there is seemingly no active point guard on the roster who can carry a considerable workload, the Mavericks may have to rely on their Anthony Davis, PJ Washington, and Cooper Flagg-led frontcourt to vanquish the Raptors.

Tip-off is scheduled for Sunday at 7:30 p.m. ET.
https://clutchpoints.com/nba/dallas-mavericks/mavericks-news-guard-dilemma-dealt-even-more-uncertainty-latest-update

SMU hits historic new low in loss to Wake Forest

SMU Football Hits First ACC Loss in Winston-Salem Against Wake Forest

SMU football entered Winston-Salem with an unblemished Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) record, having never lost a conference game since joining the ACC. Still very much in the ACC title game picture, the Mustangs faced Wake Forest with high hopes. However, on Saturday, SMU experienced a new low.

The Demon Deacons snatched victory from the ACC runner-up and 2024 College Football Playoff contender with a walk-off field goal. This marked SMU’s first defeat in ACC play since joining the conference. College football reporter Matt Fortuna notes that this is also the Mustangs’ first conference loss since November 17, 2022, when Tulane—then an American Athletic Conference team—upended SMU. At that time, both teams were members of the American Athletic Conference.

SMU’s Offensive Struggles vs. Wake Forest

The Mustangs introduced a high-octane offense in their ACC debut last season under quarterback Kevin Jennings. Jennings had recently impressed fans with a dazzling behind-the-back pass, showcasing the potential of SMU’s 2024 attack. However, against Wake Forest, SMU and Jennings looked far from their usual dynamic form.

The Dallas-based university went punt, turnover on downs, punt, and another punt on their first four possessions, struggling to generate offense. They did not put points on the board until their fifth offensive possession, when kicker Sam Keltner converted a 36-yard field goal. But on the very next drive, Jennings took a sack and lost the ball, with Wake Forest’s Jayden Loving recovering the fumble caused by Gabe Kirschke.

SMU’s lone touchdown came late in the third quarter when Shaadie Clayton-Johnson scored on a six-yard run. Despite this, the Mustangs had trouble moving the ball on the ground, managing just 75 total rushing yards at 2.7 yards per carry. Jennings, a dual-threat quarterback, contributed only seven rushing yards and threw for 171 yards. He was also intercepted by Wake Forest’s Karon Prunty.

Wake Forest Becomes the First Team in 2025 to Shut Down Jennings

Wake Forest became the first team in the 2025 season to prevent Kevin Jennings from throwing a single touchdown pass. Moreover, their victory ended SMU’s impressive conference winning streak.

As SMU looks ahead, they will need to regroup and address the offensive issues that surfaced against the Demon Deacons to stay competitive in the ACC title race.
https://clutchpoints.com/ncaa-football/smu-hits-historic-new-low-in-loss-to-wake-forest