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.

For access to AP Newsroom and other technical issues, including agate, contact AP Customer Support at apcustomersupport@ap.org or 877-836-9477.

The New York sports desk can be reached at 800-845-8450, ext. 1630. Sports photos, ext. 1918; graphics, ext. 7636.

——————————

UPCOMING

——————————

FBN--EAGLES-VIKINGS PREVIEW

DESCRIPTION: MINNEAPOLIS — The Philadelphia Eagles have a lot to fix and no easy time to do it with a daunting stretch of the schedule starting with a game at the Minnesota Vikings this week. By Pro Football Writer Dave Campbell. 750 words, photos.

UPCOMING: By 10/16/2025 2:00 p.m. EDT, Text, Photo

___

FBC--BAYLOR-TCU-PASSING SHOWDOWN

DESCRIPTION: FORT WORTH, Texas — Baylor quarterback Sawyer Robertson and TCU’s Josh Hoover, both former Texas high school standouts who had to wait for their turn in college, are now ranked 1-2 nationally in passing yards and touchdown passes. They will be on the same field Saturday in the 121st meeting of the most-played rivalry in Texas. By Stephen Hawkins. 750 words, photos.

SENT: By 10/16/2025 2:00 p.m. EDT, Text, Photo

___

FBN--ON-FOOTBALL-WITH-ROB-MAADDI-WEEK-7

DESCRIPTION: New England Patriots backup quarterback Joshua Dobbs talks about his role in helping develop star quarterback Drake Maye and coach Mike Vrabel’s impact on the team.

UPCOMING: By 10/16/2025 4:00 p.m. EDT, Audio, Text

___

FBN--JETS-CONSERVATIVE FIELDS

DESCRIPTION: FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — Justin Fields wants to start letting loose a little. Good thing, too, since the New York Jets’ struggling offense can certainly use something different. Fields is taking care of the football this season with no interceptions through his first five starts, a statistical oddity in what has been an otherwise rough go for the quarterback. He said he wants to be more aggressive with throwing the ball downfield, starting Sunday against Carolina. By Pro Football Writer Dennis Waszak Jr.

UPCOMING: By 10/16/2025 4:00 p.m. EDT, Text

___

BKO--USA BASKETBALL-SPOELSTRA

DESCRIPTION: MIAMI -- Erik Spoelstra of the Miami Heat gets the formal press conference introduction from USA Basketball on Thursday. And now the fun stuff starts: figuring out how to win gold at the World Cup in 2027 and the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028. By Basketball Writer Tim Reynolds. UPCOMING: 600 words, photos by 4 p.m.

UPCOMING: By 10/16/2025 4:00 p.m. EDT, Text, Photo

___

FBN--RAVENS-BYE

DESCRIPTION: OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Can the Baltimore Ravens recover from their 1-5 start and make the playoffs. History suggests it’s unlikely -- but not impossible. By Noah Trister. UPCOMING: 650 words, photos.

UPCOMING: By 10/16/2025 4:00 p.m. EDT, Text

___

BKN--NBA-BETTING

DESCRIPTION: LAS VEGAS — The odds as another NBA season is about to begin are on the Oklahoma City Thunder to repeat as champions. By Mark Anderson. UPCOMING: 600 words, photos, by 5 p.m. EDT.

UPCOMING: By 10/16/2025 5:00 p.m. EDT, Text

___

FBN--PANTHERS-JETS PREVIEW

DESCRIPTION: EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — Bryce Young’s arrival in Carolina sparked hope for the Panthers. As the No. 1 pick in the 2023 NFL draft, he’s seen as the quarterback to lead the team back to success. The Panthers are set to face the winless Jets on Sunday, aiming for their third consecutive win. By Pro Football Writer Dennis Waszak Jr.

UPCOMING: By 10/16/2025 5:00 p.m. EDT, Text

___

FBN--BILLS BYE

DESCRIPTION: Bills coach Sean McDermott isn’t flinching amid sky-is-falling concerns in Buffalo following two losses and issues on offense and defense. This isn’t McDermott’s first time entering a bye week with a loss or in the midst of a two-game skid over his nine seasons. Buffalo has had one two-game skid in each of the past six seasons, but hasn’t lost three in a row since 2018. By John Wawrow. UPCOMING: 750 words, photos by 5 p.m. EDT.

UPCOMING: By 10/16/2025 5:00 p.m. EDT, Text

___

SOC--WOMEN’S CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

DESCRIPTION: Arsenal aims to get its Champions League defense back on track with a win at Benfica following its opening loss to OL Lyonnes. Juventus visits a Bayern Munich team which is trying to recover from a 7-1 demolition by Barcelona. Paris Saint-Germain plays Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid hosts Manchester United.

UPCOMING: By 10/16/2025 5:00 p.m. EDT, Text, Photo

___

FBC--T25-UTAH-BYU-COACHES

DESCRIPTION: PROVO, Utah — Rivalry boundaries in the Holy War are open borders for coaches on both sidelines. When No. 23 Utah travels south to play No. 15 BYU on Saturday, many coaches will be on the opposite sideline across from the team where they were a former coach or player. By John Coon. UPCOMING: 600 words, photos by 2 p.m. MT.

UPCOMING: By 10/16/2025 5:00 p.m. EDT, Text

___

BBO--POSTSEASON

FORMATS: Text

1. WITH: BBO--NLCS-BREWERS-DODGERS

2. DESCRIPTION: LOS ANGELES — Tyler Glasnow tries to extend the Los Angeles Dodgers’ dominant run of starting pitching in Game 3 of the NL Championship Series against the Milwaukee Brewers, who trail 2-0. By Beth Harris. UPCOMING: 600 words, photos. Begins 6 p.m. ET.

3. UPCOMING: By 10/16/2025 6:00 p.m. EDT

___

FBN--FALCONS-49ERS PREVIEW

DESCRIPTION: SANTA CLARA, Calif. — Christian McCaffrey has long been the standard when it comes to dual-threat running backs in the NFL with his ability to run routes like a receiver on the outside as well as being able to thrive as a runner for the San Francisco 49ers. McCaffrey has been surpassed early this season by his offseason training partner Bijan Robinson, who is off to a record-setting start this season for Atlanta headed into the Falcons’ game on Sunday night against McCaffrey and the 49ers. By Pro Football Writer Josh Dubow. 800 words, photos.

UPCOMING: By 10/16/2025 7:39 p.m. EDT, Text

___

FBC--PENN ST-GRUNKEMEYER

DESCRIPTION: STATE COLLEGE, Pa. — With quarterback Drew Allar done for the season, it’ll be up to Ethan Grunkemeyer to help salvage Penn State’s season. He’ll make his first career start for the Nittany Lions as they visit Iowa trying to halt a three-game slide that forced the program to fire longtime coach James Franklin. By Travis Johnson. 600 words, photos.

UPCOMING: By 10/16/2025 8:09 p.m. EDT, Text, Photo

___

FBN--STEELERS-BENGALS

DESCRIPTION: CINCINNATI -- Aaron Rodgers and the AFC North-leading Pittsburgh Steelers face Joe Flacco and the Cincinnati Bengals in just the third regular-season game where both quarterbacks are age 40 or older. By Joe Reedy. 750 words, photos.

UPCOMING: By 10/16/2025 8:15 p.m. EDT, Text, Photo

___

——————————

NEW AND DEVELOPING

——————————

SOC--FIFA-WORLD CUP TICKETS

FIFA announces over 1 million tickets sold for 2026 World Cup in North America

SUMMARY: FIFA has announced that over 1 million tickets have been sold for next year’s World Cup. The tournament will be hosted by the U.S., Canada and Mexico. The highest demand for tickets comes from these three countries. FIFA reports that fans from 212 countries and territories have purchased tickets, even though only 28 of the 48 spots have been filled. The tournament runs from June 11 through July 19. The first round of ticket sales was a lottery, with 4.5 million applicants. The next draw opens on October 27. FIFA has also launched its official resale platform for tickets.

WORDS: 717 - MOVED: 10/16/2025 1:39 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:aa5ec608f51b398174b1c234d85f8def&mediaType=text

___

SOC--ASTON VILLA-ISRAELI FANS

Maccabi Tel Aviv fans barred from Europa League game at Aston Villa for security reasons

SUMMARY: Maccabi Tel Aviv soccer fans won’t be allowed to attend a Europa League game at Aston Villa next month because of security concerns. The English club says in a statement that its local police force advised “they have public safety concerns outside the stadium bowl and the ability to deal with any potential protests.” Maccabi Tel Aviv visits Villa Park on Nov. 6. It’s the team’s first away game in the Europa League since pro-Palestinian protests took place in Thessaloniki, Greece when the club played PAOK last month when fans of the Israeli club were held behind a police cordon before entering the venue.

WORDS: 229 - MOVED: 10/16/2025 1:09 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:6c3c0d2f9d6cdb0ee25da8fe42c6d545&mediaType=text

___

US--COLLEGE SPORTS-SCORE VS SAFE

SCORE vs. SAFE: Two competing bills in Congress seek to protect college sports and its athletes

SUMMARY: Efforts to reform college sports remain uncertain as fall arrives, with two major legislative attempts struggling for support in Congress. The SCORE Act, introduced in July, offers the NCAA limited antitrust exemption and prevents athletes from becoming employees. The SAFE Act, introduced last month, allows conferences to pool broadcast rights, potentially increasing revenue. Both bills aim to preempt state laws on name, image, and likeness payments. However, they differ on athletes’ rights and financial strategies. The NCAA and conferences are pushing for momentum, but political hurdles and other priorities make passage uncertain.

WORDS: 845 - MOVED: 10/16/2025 12:51 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:569c9d08d7fb3eabb424c05a75f31b2b&mediaType=text

___

BBO--YANKEES

Yankees’ Aaron Judge doesn’t need surgery, Volpe and Rodón had operations and could miss opening day

SUMMARY: Yankees star Aaron Judge won’t need surgery on his elbow but shortstop Anthony Volpe and left-hander Carlos Rodón had operations this week and could miss opening day. Judge’s throwing was limited after he hurt the flexor tendon in his right elbow in July. Manager Aaron Boone says an MRI after the team was eliminated last week showed no surgery is needed. Volpe had surgery Tuesday to repair the labrum in his left shoulder. Boone said he can start hitting in four months but can’t dive on it for six months. Rodón was operated on to remove loose bodies in his left elbow and shave a bone spur.

WORDS: 514 - MOVED: 10/16/2025 12:37 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:cea306c56d711be046064f23fbcf689e&mediaType=text

___

BOX--HATTON-INQUEST

UK court opens inquest into death of boxer Ricky Hatton

SUMMARY: A court in Manchester has opened and adjourned an inquest into the death of former boxing champion Ricky Hatton. Hatton died last month at 46. He was found unresponsive at his home on September 14 by his manager, Paul Speak. Speak was there to take Hatton to the airport for a planned comeback fight in Dubai. The court heard the provisional cause of death is hanging. Hatton was last seen by his family on September 12. Fans lined the streets for his funeral last week. Hatton was a two-weight world champion and had been open about his mental health struggles.

WORDS: 381 - MOVED: 10/16/2025 12:05 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:2196225cc1697008d53a3a56e416d4a8&mediaType=text

___

BKW--T25-WOMEN’S POLL AT 50-GREATEST PLAYERS

The greatest women’s college basketball players: Who made the list?

SUMMARY: Cheryl Miller, Diana Taurasi and Candace Parker are among a select group named the best to ever play the game during the 50 years of the women’s basketball poll. As part of the season-long anniversary, a group of 13 former players and Associated Press sportswriters voted based on what players accomplished during their collegiate careers. The first team included the frontcourt of USC’s Miller, Parker from Tennessee and Breanna Stewart of UConn. Taurasi, another UConn great, and Iowa’s Caitlin Clark are the first-team guards. The second-team consists of UConn’s Sue Bird and Virginia’s Dawn Staley in the backcourt, Delta State’s Lusia Harris, Tennessee’s Chamique Holdsclaw and UConn’s Maya Moore in the frontcourt.

WORDS: 958 - MOVED: 10/16/2025 11:48 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:22242d784a4720456af59ae4d4b56660&mediaType=text

___

AS--NEPAL-OBIT-KANCHHA SHERPA

Kanchha Sherpa, last surviving member of pioneering Mount Everest expedition, dies at 92

SUMMARY: Kanchha Sherpa, the last surviving member of the first Mount Everest expedition team, has died at 92. He was part of the 1953 team that helped New Zealander Edmund Hillary and Sherpa Tenzing Norgay reach the summit. The Nepal Mountaineering Association says Kanchha Sherpa died at his home in the Kathmandu district of Nepal on Thursday. Born in 1933, he began his mountaineering career at 19 and was active until age 50. He was one of three Sherpas to reach the final camp before the summit with Hillary and Tenzing. In 2024 he expressed concerns about overcrowding on Everest and urged respect for the mountain.

WORDS: 694 - MOVED: 10/16/2025 11:47 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:a0a5ed445d41baae7ae9f6c347471666&mediaType=text

___

BKN--BUCKS-GIANNIS’ LEGACY

Giannis Antetokounmpo: ‘I’m not there yet’ in his quest to be among the all-time greats

SUMMARY: Giannis Antetokounmpo has legacy on his mind. Despite his impressive achievements, including an NBA championship and MVP awards, he believes there’s more to accomplish. As he enters his 13th NBA season with the Milwaukee Bucks, Antetokounmpo remains focused on winning. Bucks general manager Jon Horst praises him as the best player in the world, highlighting his impact on the team’s success. While trade speculations persist, Antetokounmpo expresses commitment to Milwaukee, acknowledging the possibility of change. For now, his goal is to achieve greatness and be remembered among the NBA’s elite.

WORDS: 965 - MOVED: 10/16/2025 11:30 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:9d60f4c45afffa36042526f87757ff35&mediaType=text

___

FBC--T25-OHIO STATE-WISCONSIN PREVIEW

Badgers coach Luke Fickell facing plenty of heat as No. 1 Ohio State heads to Wisconsin

SUMMARY: No. 1 Ohio State’s drive toward a potential second straight national championship includes a visit this week with an old friend going through a career crisis. Wisconsin coach Luke Fickell played for Ohio State from 1993-96 and worked on the Buckeyes’ staff for 16 years. Now he’s occupying one of the hottest seats in college football. Fickell’s Badgers carry a four-game skid into Saturday’s game with the top-ranked Buckeyes. Ohio State is a 25 1/2-point favorite, according to BetMGM Sportsbook. The Buckeyes say they’re taking nothing for granted.

WORDS: 780 - MOVED: 10/16/2025 10:25 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:523fb24a02b0042096622f834175ac2e&mediaType=text

___

US-TRUMP-WORLD-CUP-WHAT TO KNOW

What to know about President Trump’s threat to take World Cup matches from Boston

SUMMARY: President Donald Trump has threatened to relocate World Cup matches set to be played next year in suburban Boston, but it’s not really up to him. Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, who Trump decried as part of the “radical left,” says she’s looking forward to hosting the matches and questioned how he could take the matches away. FIFA officials maintain that they decide where the matches will be held. Trump is tight with FIFA head Gianni Infantino, and that relationship might become a factor. Seven matches are scheduled to be played in the Boston suburb of Foxborough.

WORDS: 1069 - MOVED: 10/16/2025 10:18 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:6d1393f412fbb295ae1d2958fa5e6e3d&mediaType=text

___

BKC--EXHIBITION SHOWDOWNS

March Madness in October? Top programs using exhibitions to cash in and check team chemistry

SUMMARY: The last weekend of October now looks like the second week of March Madness even though the games don’t count. The NCAA recently changed rules to allow more exhibitions without requiring proceeds to go to charity. This has led to more high-profile matchups between top programs before the season officially starts. The games provide a chance to test chemistry with rosters being overhauled every season because of transfers. They also provide a new revenue source for cash-hungry schools sharing revenue with athletes.

WORDS: 1007 - MOVED: 10/16/2025 8:10 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:634460126b222ed4b3563b40082f4413&mediaType=text

___

OLY--SWM-TITMUS RETIRES

Olympic champion Ariarne ‘Arnie’ Titmus terminates swimming career, shocks fans

SUMMARY: Olympic champion Ariarne Titmus has announced her immediate retirement from elite swimming in a surprise move. The four-time Olympic gold medalist shared the news Thursday in posts on Instagram. The 25-year-old Australian explained that she realized some things in her life are more important to her now than swimming. At the Paris Olympics last year, Titmus successfully defended her 400-meter freestyle title, marking her third career individual gold medal. She retires as the world-record holder in the 200 freestyle and with 33 international medals, including eight at the Olympics and four world titles.

WORDS: 683 - MOVED: 10/16/2025 3:25 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:251fa4553d50546cd43d9403ac063f94&mediaType=text

___

MOVING TOMORROW

___

—MLB playoffs

—BKL--Aces-Parade

—FIG--Grand Prix de France

—FBC--North Carolina-California