Here are the AP’s top sports stories that have moved or are planned to move today. All times U.S. Eastern. For up-to-the minute information on AP’s coverage, visit AP Newsroom’s Coverage Plan. Sports content can be found at http://newsroom.ap.org/page/APSports.

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UPCOMING

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RYDER CUP-EUROPEAN REIGN

DESCRIPTION: FARMINGDALE, N.Y. — Rory McIlroy still remembers his tears from losing so badly in the Ryder Cup. What stung even more were the words from four years ago by American players who predicted a changing in fortunes. McIlroy and Team Europe left New York with the trophy, extending its dominance. By Golf Writer Doug Ferguson. UPCOMING: 950 words, photos.

UPCOMING: By 09/29/2025 6:00 a.m. EDT, Text, Photo

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FBN--ON FOOTBALL-FAKE TUSH PUSH

DESCRIPTION: TAMPA, Fla. — Nick Sirianni and the Philadelphia Eagles sent a message to the NFL and 31 other teams in Week 4. By Pro Football Writer Rob Maaddi. UPCOMING: 700 words, photos.

UPCOMING: By 09/29/2025 6:00 a.m. EDT, Text

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HKN--PANTHERS-AFTER BARKOV

DESCRIPTION: FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Images of Aleksander Barkov hoisting the Stanley Cup are scattered all over the Florida Panthers’ team facility. It’s the ultimate reminder of the last two championship seasons: the team captain being the first one to lift hockey’s chalice. Now, the Panthers face perhaps the ultimate challenge: Doing it again — without Barkov. By Tim Reynolds. UPCOMING: 800 words, photos.

UPCOMING: By 09/29/2025 6:00 a.m. EDT, Text, Photo

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BBO--THIS WEEK IN BASEBALL

DESCRIPTION: The Miami Marlins were outperformed preseason expectations in a big way this year, and their 79th and final win was enough to knock the New York Mets out of the playoffs. By Baseball Writer Noah Trister. UPCOMING 600 words, photos.

UPCOMING: By 09/29/2025 6:00 a.m. EDT, Text

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FBC--T25--AP TOP 25-EXTRA POINTS

DESCRIPTION: The vibe around Virginia football has never been more upbeat than at this moment in coach Tony Elliott’s four seasons in Charlottesville. By College Football Writer Eric Olson. UPCOMING: 850 words, photos.

UPCOMING: By 09/29/2025 7:00 a.m. EDT, Text

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SOC--YAMAL CONCERNS

DESCRIPTION: MANCHESTER, England-Concerns have been raised about the welfare of Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal and the “alarming” demands on him at such a young age. The 18-year-old Spain international is already regarded as one of the best soccer players in the world and has broken a slew of records since bursting onto the scene when he was just 15. But global soccer players’ union FIFPRO believes the workload placed on Yamal could risk his “long-term development and well-being.” UPCOMING: 600 words, photos.

UPCOMING: By 09/29/2025 7:00 a.m. EDT, Text, Photo

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HKO--NCAA-NHL PIPELINE

WITH: HKO--NCAA-NHL PIPELINE

DESCRIPTION: The NCAA’s decision to allow Canadian Hockey League players to compete at U.S. colleges has created a seismic shift of North America’s junior developmental landscape. The change has been so dramatic, Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar called it “a gong show” after watching a mass exodus of CHL players committing to NCAA schools this offseason. By Hockey Writer John Wawrow.

UPCOMING: By 09/29/2025 8:00 a.m. EDT

WITH: HKO--NCAA-NHL

DESCRIPTION: The NCAA’s decision to allow Canadian Hockey League players to compete at the U.S. college level won’t change how the NHL evaluates talent. NHL Central Scouting chief Dan Marr says players now have more freedom to choose their development path, benefiting NHL teams. The ruling in November led to a massive redistribution of talent across North America. Nearly 325 CHL players have committed to Division I college programs. The NHL has standardized how long teams retain rights to drafted prospects. CHL players can now further their development in college, offering new opportunities and challenges. By Hockey Writer John Wawrow.

UPCOMING: By 09/29/2025 8:00 a.m. EDT

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SOC--MBAPPE-BALLON D’OR

DESCRIPTION: MANCHESTER, England-By the age of 19 Kylian Mbappe had already won the World Cup, become one of the most expensive soccer players ever and was labeled the heir-apparent to Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Seven years later, and with Messi and Ronaldo long past their peak, Mbappe is still waiting to be officially recognized as the best player on the planet. If anything, he is going backwards. By James Robson. UPCOMING: 500 words, photos.

UPCOMING: By 09/29/2025 10:20 a.m. EDT, Text, Photo

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FBN--STEELERS-ANALYSIS

DESCRIPTION: PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Steelers remain very much a work in progress through the first month of the season. Yet they’ve found ways to survive during a 3-1 start and showed signs in an emotional victory over Minnesota in Dublin on Sunday that they might be starting to figure things out. By Will Graves. UPCOMING: 750 words, photos.

UPCOMING: By 09/29/2025 2:00 p.m. EDT, Text, Photo

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HKN--HURRICANES-EHLERS

DESCRIPTION: RALEIGH, N.C. — Nikolaj Ehlers is settling in with the Carolina Hurricanes. Ehlers is a free-agent signee who had spent 10 seasons with the Winnipeg Jets. Ehlers agreed to a six-year deal with Carolina to join a team filled with returnees after a second trip to the Eastern Conference final in three seasons. By Aaron Beard. UPCOMING: 700 words, photos.

UPCOMING: By 09/29/2025 4:00 p.m. EDT, Text

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BKN--PISTONS-CUNNINGHAM

DESCRIPTION: DETROIT — Cade Cunningham and the Detroit Pistons are coming off a breakout season. The next step, advancing in the playoffs, will be a challenge for the All-Star point guard and the franchise. By Larry Lage. UPCOMING: 500 words, photos.

UPCOMING: By 09/29/2025 5:00 p.m. EDT, Text

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BKN--MEDIA DAY-HAWKS

DESCRIPTION: ATLANTA — With rising star forward Jalen Johnson recovered from a shoulder injury, newly acquired center Kristaps Porzingis adding scoring versatility and Nickeil Alexander-Walker joining Dyson Daniels as another elite defender, Trae Young has an improved supporting cast as the Atlanta Hawks look to move up in the Eastern Conference this season. By Charles Odum. UPCOMING: 500 words

UPCOMING: By 09/29/2025 5:00 p.m. EDT, Text

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BBO--PADRES-CUBS PREVIEW

DESCRIPTION: CHICAGO — The San Diego Padres went 52-29 at Petco Park this season — and 38-43 on the road. They are back on the road for the first round of the playoffs, taking on Dansby Swanson and the Chicago Cubs in a best-of-three series at Wrigley Field. By Baseball Writer Jay Cohen. UPCOMING: 600 words, photos.

UPCOMING: By 09/29/2025 6:00 p.m. EDT, Text

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BKN--MEDIA DAY-GRIZZLIES

DESCRIPTION: MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Ja Morant’s appeal shined during an offseason trip that included visiting China, and the NBA has scheduled the Grizzlies for a pair of games in Europe in January. Now Memphis needs the two-time All-Star, limited to 59 games combined over the past two seasons. to stay on the court to have any hope of competing in the Western Conference. UPCOMING: 700 words, photos.

UPCOMING: By 09/29/2025 7:00 p.m. EDT, Text, Photo

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FBN--49ERS-ANALYSIS

DESCRIPTION: SANTA CLARA, Calif. — The San Francisco 49ers have little time to dwell on their first loss of the season with a quick turnaround before a division showdown against the Los Angeles Rams. By Pro Football Writer Josh Dubow. 700 words, photos.

UPCOMING: By 09/29/2025 8:00 p.m. EDT, Text

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FBN--JETS-DOLPHINS

DESCRIPTION: MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — The New York Jets play the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium. By Alanis Thames. UPCOMING: 700 words, photos. Game starts at 7:15 p.m. EDT.

UPCOMING: By 09/29/2025 10:30 p.m. EDT, Text, Photo

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FBN--BENGALS-BRONCOS

DESCRIPTION: DENVER — The Cincinnati Bengals play the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High. UPCOMING: 500 words, photos. Game starts at 8:15 p.m. EDT

UPCOMING: By 09/29/2025 11:30 p.m. EDT, Text, Photo

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NEW AND DEVELOPING

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FBN--PACKERS-COWBOYS

Micah Parsons’ hyped return to Dallas ends with Cowboys and Packers in 40-40 tie

SUMMARY: Brandon Aubrey and Brandon McManus traded short field goals in overtime, and Micah Parsons’ highly anticipated return to Dallas ended with the Cowboys and Green Bay Packers in a 40-40 tie. Dak Prescott and Jordan Love had three touchdown passes apiece in regulation, which included seven consecutive lead-changing TDs before McManus’ tying 53-yard field goal as time expired. McManus kicked a 34-yarder as the clock hit 0:00 in overtime, just after Love’s pass into the back of the end zone fell incomplete with just a second remaining.

WORDS: 936 - MOVED: 09/29/2025 1:22 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:76b3dd484155f95c7761c77b205d111f&mediaType=text

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BKW--USC-WATKINS

USC star JuJu Watkins says she’ll be out for the season as she recovers from ACL injury

SUMMARY: Southern California star JuJu Watkins announced on social media that she will be sidelined for the season after suffering an ACL injury in the NCAA Tournament last season. The USC junior was the AP Player of the Year last season after leading the Trojans to their best season in 40 years. Watkins became just the fourth player to win the award in her sophomore year. The AP started giving out the award in 1995, and Watkins is the first Trojans player to win it. The star guard isn’t eligible for the WNBA draft next year. A U.S. player must be at least 22 in the year of the draft or have graduated from a four-year school within three months of the draft to be eligible.

WORDS: 468 - MOVED: 09/29/2025 12:55 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:a617c63c56d4f786756c3295dc13f4ea&mediaType=text

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FBN--PACKERS-COWBOYS-PARSONS

Micah Parsons gets OT sack but nobody wins in Packers’ visit to Dallas a month after trade

SUMMARY: Micah Parsons finally got a sack for the Green Bay Packers against his former mentor in overtime. But nobody won in the star rusher’s return to Dallas on Sunday night, The Cowboys had to settle for a short field goal on the opening possession in overtime, that kick coming two plays after Parsons tackled a scrambling Dak Prescott from behind at the 4 for a sack. Green Bay then drove the field for a field goal on the final play for a 40-40 tie. Parsons finished with that one solo tackle and sack, along with two assisted tackles and three quarterback hurries. .

WORDS: 655 - MOVED: 09/29/2025 12:31 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:df13e446270b66bee463d56236742904&mediaType=text

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BKL--LYNX-TOUGH-ENDING

Top-seeded Minnesota Lynx see dream season end early after frustrating 3-game tailspin

SUMMARY: The Minnesota Lynx have seen their season end after losing to the Phoenix Mercury 86-81 in Game 4 of the playoff semifinal. Despite having the league’s best record, the Lynx lost three straight games in the playoffs, blowing a 13-point lead in the fourth quarter Sunday. Veteran All-Star Kayla McBride scored 31 points, but it wasn’t enough to force a Game 5. The Lynx played without suspended coach Cheryl Reeve and All-Star guard Napheesa Collier, who was injured. Minnesota was a favorite to reach the Finals but faced challenges with officiating and key absences.

WORDS: 456 - MOVED: 09/29/2025 12:24 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:3b7eaf0f945b265e21e06205a31ff126&mediaType=text

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BKL--LYNX-MERCURY

Mercury overcome 13-point deficit in 4th quarter, beat Lynx 86-81 to advance to WNBA Finals

SUMMARY: Alyssa Thomas scores 23 points, and DeWanna Bonner hits clutch 3-pointers in the fourth quarter as the Phoenix Mercury rally from a 13-point deficit to beat the Minnesota Lynx 86-81 in Game 4. The Mercury advance to the WNBA Finals for the first time since 2021. Phoenix will face the Indiana-Las Vegas winner. Indiana forced a Game 5 earlier Sunday with a 90-83 home victory. The Mercury won the last three games of the best-of-five semifinal series against the top-seeded Lynx. Bonner scores 11 points in the fourth quarter, while Satou Sabally adds 21 points. Minnesota’s Kayla McBride leads with 31 points. The Lynx play without coach Cheryl Reeve and All-Star guard Napheesa Collier

WORDS: 587 - MOVED: 09/28/2025 11:37 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:c8e9e581d32647016079889a7e16d118&mediaType=text

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GLF--RYDER CUP-MCILROY

Rory McIlroy calls out ‘unacceptable and abusive behavior’ from Bethpage fans at Ryder Cup

SUMMARY: Rory McIlroy helped Europe win the Ryder Cup and then called out the hostile New York crowd for “unacceptable and abusive behavior.” Over his five matches at Bethpage Black, McIlroy endured a torrent of insults about everything from his personal life to past failures on the golf course. People shouted out as he lined up to swing and putt. Someone threw a beer at his wife. During the European team’s winning news conference, McIlroy said golf “should be held to a higher standard” for fan behavior. He noted that the hecklers were a minority in a crowd of “true golf fans.”

WORDS: 979 - MOVED: 09/28/2025 10:54 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:86b5a189f6699a0734a77d27c9ebd8aa&mediaType=text

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ENT--SUPER-BOWL-BAD BUNNY

Latin superstar Bad Bunny will headline the 2026 Super Bowl halftime show

SUMMARY: Bad Bunny will headline the Super Bowl halftime show next year. The NFL, Apple Music and Roc Nation announced Sunday that the Grammy winner will perform at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, on Feb. 8. This comes after his historic Puerto Rico residency this month, which drew over half a million fans. Bad Bunny is also leading all nominees at the Latin Grammys in November. With three Grammys and 12 Latin Grammys, he has become a global ambassador for Latin music. Last year, Kendrick Lamar set a record with 133.5 million viewers for his Super Bowl performance.

WORDS: 461 - MOVED: 09/28/2025 10:26 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:8d39f256c8ff8922871f1d613ba51c3d&mediaType=text

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BBO--METS-ALONSO

Mets All-Star first baseman Pete Alonso will opt out of contract and test free agency again

SUMMARY: Pete Alonso says he will opt out of his contract with the New York Mets and enter free agency again. The decision is no surprise, but the All-Star first baseman made his plans clear Sunday after the Mets missed the playoffs with a 4-0 loss to the Miami Marlins. Alonso tested the open market last offseason before staying with the team that drafted him in 2016. He signed a $54 million, two-year contract that paid him $30 million this season with a $24 million player option for 2026. The 30-year-old Alonso earned his fifth All-Star selection this season. He batted a career-best .272 with 38 home runs, 126 RBIs and a career-high 41 doubles.

WORDS: 485 - MOVED: 09/28/2025 10:12 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:b77cea8a4dde8af4701f616baef157aa&mediaType=text

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FBN--CHARGERS-GIANTS INJURIES

Giants’ Malik Nabers carted off against Chargers with knee injury

SUMMARY: New York Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers was carted off the field with an injured right knee against the Los Angeles Chargers. The injury happened in the second quarter Sunday when Nabers attempted to catch a deep pass from Jaxson Dart, who was making his first NFL start. Trainers rushed to assist Nabers. The Giants didn’t provide an update on the injury after the game. But the fear is that it could be a serious injury to Nabers’ ACL, which would be a significant blow to the Giants’ offense.

WORDS: 811 - MOVED: 09/28/2025 10:07 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:6a5a25e02e240a9ed58841d4e23053c3&mediaType=text

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BBO--BLUE JAYS-AL EAST

Blue Jays cap turnaround from worst to first by holding off Yankees to win 7th AL East crown

SUMMARY: The Toronto Blue Jays capped a turnaround from worst to first by holding off the New York Yankees to win the AL East on the final day of the season, their first division title in a decade and the seventh in team history. “The job is not finished,” Blue Jays slugger Vladimir Guerrero Jr. said after a 13-4 win over the Tampa Bay Rays that clinched the division crown and secured a bye into the Division Series. The Blue Jays finished 74-88 a season ago, last in the AL East and 20 games behind the first-place Yankees.

WORDS: 643 - MOVED: 09/28/2025 9:34 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:ea51bbde849c3baca9f4c91ebfce4efe&mediaType=text

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BBO--GUARDIANS-AL CENTRAL

Rocchio’s walk-off homer embodies Guardians’ 2nd-half rally to AL Central title

SUMMARY: It was fitting in many ways that Brayan Rocchio hit the walk-off homer that put an exclamation point on the Cleveland Guardians’ historic run to an AL Central title. Even though Cleveland had secured its 13th division crown in the eighth inning when Boston beat Detroit, the Guardians weren’t content to let the AL Central race finish in a tie and win it on a tiebreaker. Cleveland rallied from two runs down to force extra innings. Texas pinch-hitter Rowdy Tellez put the Rangers up 8-5 with a three-run homer in the 10th, but the Guardians came back again with Bo Naylor’s RBI double in the bottom half and then Rocchio’s three-run drive down the right-field line that hit the foul pole and gave them a 9-8 victory.

WORDS: 775 - MOVED: 09/28/2025 9:21 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:c2b25c6991d99af43e7e69863b2c97ad&mediaType=text

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BBO--LEADERS

Trea Turner wins NL batting title with record-low .304 average, and Aaron Judge leads majors at .331

SUMMARY: Philadelphia’s Trea Turner won his second National League batting title with a record-low .304 average, and the New York Yankees’ Aaron Judge earned his first American League championship by leading the major leagues at .331. San Diego’s Tony Gwynn had the previous low for an NL champion at .313 in 1988. The only lower average by any batting champion was .301 by Boston’s Carl Yastrzemski, who won the AL title in 1968. Turner, who went 0 for 2 on Sunday in his return from a strained right hamstring, was the NL’s only .300 hitter. The previous low of three was set in 2022 and matched last year.

WORDS: 745 - MOVED: 09/28/2025 8:59 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:fd3b38711541598120e85127a11dca5c&mediaType=text

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FBN--RAVENS-INJURIES

Lamar Jackson strains hamstring and Ravens lose 4 other starters to injuries in loss to Chiefs

SUMMARY: Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson will be evaluated further on Monday after leaving Sunday’s loss to the Kansas City Chiefs with a right hamstring strain. Losing Jackson added to a wave of injuries for the Ravens, who fell to 1-3. Left tackle Ronnie Stanley left with an ankle injury, cornerback Marlon Humphrey departed with a calf injury, linebacker Roquan Smith was ruled out with a hamstring injury and cornerback Nate Wiggins left with what appeared to be an elbow injury. By the end of the game, Baltimore was missing seven of its starters on defense alone.

WORDS: 508 - MOVED: 09/28/2025 8:56 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:af1317927ff33522a590d3cc7c5f84c9&mediaType=text

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BBO--RED SOX-YANKEES LOOKAHEAD

Red Sox and Yankees meet in high-profile Wild Card Series starting Tuesday

SUMMARY: Aaron Judge prefers to focus on the Yankees’ upcoming Wild Card Series against Boston rather than past losses. Despite beating the Orioles and finishing with a 94-68 record, the Yankees lost the division title to Toronto on a tiebreaker. The Yankees will host the Red Sox in a best-of-three series starting Tuesday. Boston’s Garrett Crochet and New York’s Max Fried start the opener in a matchup of top left-handers, followed by Brayan Bello of the Red Sox and Carlos Rodón of the Yankees in Game 2. The Yankees have home-field advantage due to a better record than Boston.

WORDS: 739 - MOVED: 09/28/2025 8:55 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:6d308e2cbcc7fd9970bc9929d0064944&mediaType=text

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BBO--MLB-POSTSEASON-GUIDE

What to watch during MLB’s best-of-three Wild Card Series this week

SUMMARY: Major League Baseball’s postseason is about to start with some spicy Wild Card Series matchups. The American League features a classic rivalry between the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees, with all games at Yankee Stadium. The Detroit Tigers face the Cleveland Guardians, seeking revenge after losing a big lead in September. In the National League, the Los Angeles Dodgers host the Cincinnati Reds, and the San Diego Padres take on the Chicago Cubs. The Toronto Blue Jays, Seattle Mariners, Milwaukee Brewers and Philadelphia Phillies have earned byes to the Division Series.

WORDS: 767 - MOVED: 09/28/2025 8:55 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:30c3a5a7b2ce585e75499ca1f26ca9c2&mediaType=text

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BBO--METS ELIMINATED

Mets can’t overcome poor 2nd half of season, miss playoffs with season-ending loss at Miami

SUMMARY: The New York Mets entered Sunday’s regular-season finale against the Miami Marlins with a singular goal: win. That was the only thing manager Carlos Mendoza’s fading team could still control in its bid to reach the postseason. But those hopes dissipated in one decisive inning. New York could not overcome a four-run fourth by the Marlins, and the Mets were eliminated from the playoff field with a 4-0 loss. The Mets missed the postseason a year after reaching the National League Championship Series and after holding the best record in the majors on June 12 — a stunning collapse for the star-studded club with a major league-high $322.6 million payroll on opening day. New York’s loss meant Cincinnati earned the final NL wild card despite losing at Milwaukee.

WORDS: 877 - MOVED: 09/28/2025 8:47 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:e52aff6b0d6feaed5ce4184c3af2b653&mediaType=text

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BOX--CRAWFORD-POLICE STOP

Omaha police ticket boxing champ Crawford for reckless driving, order him out of vehicle at gunpoint

SUMMARY: Omaha police ordered champion champion boxer Terence Crawford out of his vehicle at gunpoint during a traffic stop for reckless driving. The stop early Sunday happened hours after the city held a parade to celebrate Crawford’s victory over Canelo Alvarez. A video of the incident circulated on social media. Police chief Todd Schmaderer ordered an internal affairs investigation, supported by Mayor John Ewing. Officers observed a firearm in Crawford’s vehicle. All occupants were found to be legally permitted to carry firearms. Crawford was ticketed for reckless driving. His victory over Alvarez in Las Vegas made him the unified super middleweight champion.

WORDS: 423 - MOVED: 09/28/2025 8:31 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:3a26f968a51bcdda85757afb30b9df37&mediaType=text

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BBO--DODGERS-OHTANI

Shohei Ohtani hits his career-high 55th homer of the season to break his own Dodgers record

SUMMARY: Shohei Ohtani has set a career high with his 55th home run of the season, breaking his own franchise record for the Los Angeles Dodgers. The two-way superstar hit a 412-foot solo shot to center field off Seattle Mariners left-hander Gabe Speier, boosting Los Angeles’ lead to 5-0 in the seventh inning. Ohtani had 54 home runs last season, his first with the Dodgers. His most in six seasons with the Los Angeles Angels was 46 in 2021. The 31-year-old Ohtani has 102 RBIs, reaching 100 for the third time. On the mound, the right-hander is 1-1 with a 2.87 ERA in 14 starts following his return from elbow surgery.

WORDS: 202 - MOVED: 09/28/2025 8:31 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:a7939329f16a4b609c7a31ce8ee53150&mediaType=text

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GLF--RYDER CUP

Europe wins the Ryder Cup and reasserts its dominance over the Americans

SUMMARY: Europe has won the Ryder Cup, just like everyone expected. It just didn’t happen without a few nervous moments. The Americans rallied from a seven-point deficit to have a flicker of hope. Europe needed only two points to retain the cup. Ludvig Åberg in the fifth match got the first one. Matt Fitzpatrick earned a halve that felt like a consolation because he had Bryson DeChambeau down by 5 holes at one point. Shane Lowry put his name in Irish lore with a halve to secure the cup. And then Tyrrell Hatton got the winning half-point for Europe.

WORDS: 1047 - MOVED: 09/28/2025 8:31 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:235b5ce3869dc7636d58222e9f41730b&mediaType=text

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CAR--NASCAR-KANSAS

Elliott steals Kansas Speedway race in wild overtime finish, secures spot in 3rd round of playoffs

SUMMARY: Chase Elliott has pulled off an unexpected win at Kansas Speedway. He drove from eighth to first in a two-lap overtime sprint, securing a spot in the third round of NASCAR’s playoffs. Denny Hamlin dominated most of the race, leading 159 laps, but late issues cost him the victory. Bubba Wallace was in position to win after a red-flag stoppage, battling Christopher Bell. Hamlin caught up, but Elliott smashed past him for his second win of the season. Elliott joins Ryan Blaney in the next playoff round. The field will be cut to eight drivers after next week’s race in Concord, North Carolina.

WORDS: 979 - MOVED: 09/28/2025 8:14 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:7f1b1b8fad5f7c99316827f18ca3c448&mediaType=text

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BBO--REDS CLINCH

Reds earn 1st playoff berth since 2020 as they capitalize on Mets’ big fade

SUMMARY: The Cincinnati Reds are back in the playoffs for the first time since 2020 after overtaking the New York Mets for the National League’s third and final wild card on the season’s final weekend. Cincinnati got to the postseason with plenty of help from the stumbling Mets. The Reds blew an opportunity to clinch a playoff spot on their own Sunday when they squandered a 2-0 lead in a 4-2 loss to the Milwaukee Brewers. But they still earned the NL’s last postseason spot when the Mets lost 4-0 to the Miami Marlins.

WORDS: 970 - MOVED: 09/28/2025 7:49 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:3e0473e969b988c06c3e84bcece701dd&mediaType=text

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GLF--RYDER CUP-BRADLEY’S CHOICES

In close Ryder Cup loss, Keegan Bradley singles out Bethpage Black course setup as mistake

SUMMARY: Asked what he might have done differently in a Ryder Cup that got away early, U.S. captain Keegan Bradley focused on the way he set up the course at Bethpage Black. It was one of many decisions he made that played into a closer-than-expected 15-13 loss. Bradley’s decision to stick some strange foursomes pairings and also not to choose himself for this team could have played into the loss. In the end, though, he said not setting up Bethpage to be its typically brawny self might have given the Europeans a slight edge in their first away victory since 2012.

WORDS: 616 - MOVED: 09/28/2025 7:43 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:118073a3d350252c7fd831e9e770eb9d&mediaType=text

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BBO--TIGERS-RED SOX

Red Sox beat Tigers 4-3, clinching AL Central title for Guardians

SUMMARY: José De León pitched a career-high 6 2/3 innings in his first outing in two years to help the Boston Red Sox to a 4-3 victory over the Detroit Tigers that clinched the AL Central title for the Cleveland Guardians. The Red Sox had clinched a postseason berth on Friday, and the Tigers did so on Saturday. De León, called up from Triple-A, allowed three runs on eight hits and three walks. Greg Weissert pitched the ninth for his fourth save. The Tigers will play at Cleveland in the wild-card round and Boston travels to New York.

WORDS: 398 - MOVED: 09/28/2025 7:00 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:578e5476f3bb0d0ca7b2842d5ff18e05&mediaType=text

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FBN--GIANTS-DART’S DEBUT

On target: Jaxson Dart dazzles in his first NFL start while leading Giants to win over Chargers

SUMMARY: Jaxson Dart made a strong debut as the New York Giants’ starting quarterback. Dart, the 25th overall pick from Ole Miss, ran for a 15-yard touchdown to finish a 90-yard drive on the opening possession en route to helping the Giants beat the previously undefeated Los Angeles Chargers 21-18. The game Sunday marked his first start after replacing the benched Russell Wilson. Coach Brian Daboll gave him the starting job earlier this week as the Giants seek their first win after an 0-3 start. Dart was 13 of 20 for 111 yards, including a 3-yard TD pass to Theo Johnson, and ran 10 times for 54 yards.

WORDS: 898 - MOVED: 09/28/2025 6:38 p.m. EDT

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BKL--ACES-FEVER

Aliyah Boston, Kelsey Mitchell lead Fever past Aces 90-83 to even series and set up decisive Game 5

SUMMARY: All-Star center Aliyah Boston finished with 24 points and 14 rebounds while Kelsey Mitchell scored 25 points to help the Indiana Fever avoid elimination in the WNBA semifinals with a 90-83 victory over the second-seeded Las Vegas Aces on Sunday. The best-of-five series is now tied 2-2 with a winner-take-all Game 5 set for Tuesday in Las Vegas. The winner faces either top-seeded Minnesota or fourth-seeded Phoenix. A’ja Wilson scored 31 points to become the seventh player in league history with 1,000 points in her playoff career. But the Fever led the entire second half and closed it out late when Las Vegas mistakenly called an extra timeout, resulting in a technical foul and possession going back to the Fever.

WORDS: 623 - MOVED: 09/28/2025 6:29 p.m. EDT

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BBO--RAYS-BLUE JAYS

Kirk hits 2 homers, including 1st career slam, as Blue Jays rout Rays 13-4 to clinch AL East title

SUMMARY: Alejandro Kirk hit two home runs, including his first career grand slam, and the Toronto Blue Jays clinched their first AL East title in a decade by routing the Tampa Bay Rays 13-4 in their regular-season finale. George Springer and Addison Barger also went deep for the Blue Jays, who needed a win or a New York Yankees loss on the final day to take the division crown for the seventh time in team history and first since 2015. Toronto also wrapped up the best record in the American League at 94-68 and will have home-field advantage throughout the AL playoffs. Kirk made sure of it with a first-inning slam and a two-run homer in the fifth as the Blue Jays capped their 11th series sweep of the year.

WORDS: 452 - MOVED: 09/28/2025 6:24 p.m. EDT

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FBN--EAGLES-BUCCANEERS

Fake tush push and special teams TD help Eagles beat Bucs 31-25 to stay undefeated

SUMMARY: The Philadelphia Eagles used a fake tush push, another special teams touchdown and a late defensive stop to stay undefeated. Jalen Hurts tossed two touchdown passes, Sydney Brown returned a blocked punt for a score and the Eagles beat the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 31-25 for their 20th victory in 21 games. The only loss in that span for the reigning Super Bowl champions was against Washington last December in a game Hurts left with a concussion in the first half. Chase McLaughlin’s 65-yard field goal for Tampa Bay on the final play of the first half was the longest in NFL history in an outdoor stadium.

WORDS: 898 - MOVED: 09/28/2025 6:02 p.m. EDT

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FBN--CHARGERS-GIANTS

Dart’s impressive debut leads Giants to 1st win over Chargers, but await word on Nabers’ injury

SUMMARY: Jaxson Dart shined in his NFL starting debut, leading the New York Giants to a 21-18 victory over the previously undefeated Los Angeles Chargers. Dart threw a touchdown pass and ran for another score, helping the Giants secure their first win of the season. The excitement was a bit tempered by an injury to wide receiver Malik Nabers, who was carted off with a knee injury in the second quarter. The Giants’ defense also played a crucial role, with Brian Burns sacking Justin Herbert late in the game.

WORDS: 974 - MOVED: 09/28/2025 5:47 p.m. EDT

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FBC--ARKANSAS-PITTMAN FIRED

Arkansas fires Sam Pittman in middle of 6th season, names Bobby Petrino interim head coach

SUMMARY: Arkansas has fired Sam Pittman as head coach after a 32-34 record. Offensive coordinator Bobby Petrino, who previously coached Arkansas before leaving in scandal, is now interim head coach. Athletic director Hunter Yurachek announced the decision on Sunday, citing the need for a change to make the team more competitive. The move follows a 56-13 loss to Notre Dame. Pittman became head coach in December 2019. Yurachek says a national search for a new head coach will begin immediately, with Petrino as a candidate. Petrino was rehired in November 2023 after several other coaching roles.

WORDS: 743 - MOVED: 09/28/2025 3:07 p.m. EDT

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FBN--VIKINGS-STEELERS

Steelers hold on for 24-21 win over Vikings in NFL’s first regular-season game in Ireland

SUMMARY: Kenneth Gainwell ran for 99 yards and two touchdowns and the Pittsburgh Steelers held on to beat the Minnesota Vikings 24-21 in Ireland’s first regular-season NFL game. DK Metcalf had five catches for 126 yards, including an 80-yard touchdown for the Steelers, who improved to 3-1 going into their bye week. Carson Wentz, making his second consecutive start for the injured J.J. McCarthy, was 30 for 46 for 350 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions for the Vikings.

WORDS: 902 - MOVED: 09/28/2025 2:48 p.m. EDT

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SOC--ENGLISH ROUNDUP

Arsenal scores two late goals to beat Newcastle and close in on Premier League leader Liverpool

SUMMARY: Gabriel scored a 96th-minute winner as Arsenal came back to secure a dramatic 2-1 win against Newcastle in the Premier League and close the gap on leader Liverpool. The defender rose to head in a stoppage-time corner that moved Mikel Arteta’s team up to second in the standings and two points behind defending champion Liverpool. Victory saw Arsenal take full advantage of Liverpool’s first defeat of the season after the Merseyside club’s 2-1 loss at Crystal Palace on Saturday. Aston Villa won for the first time in the Premier League this season with a 3-1 victory against Fulham.

WORDS: 743 - MOVED: 09/28/2025 2:21 p.m. EDT

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FBC--T25-COLLEGE FOOTBALL POLL

Oregon moves to No. 2 behind Buckeyes in AP poll; Rebels, Sooners join top 5; Alabama back in top 10

SUMMARY: Oregon has moved up to No. 2 in The Associated Press college football poll, while Mississippi has its highest ranking since 2015. Alabama jumped back into the top 10, and Virginia entered the Top 25 for the first time in six years. Ohio State remains No. 1 for the fifth straight week. The Buckeyes received 46 first-place votes. Oregon’s two-overtime win at Penn State boosted them to their highest ranking since last year. Miami slipped to No. 3, followed by Mississippi and Oklahoma.

WORDS: 728 - MOVED: 09/28/2025 2:01 p.m. EDT

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