On the latest episode of The Hoop Collective, ESPN's crew of Brian Windhorst, Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon shared the results of ESPN's first 2024-25 NBA MVP straw poll. Reigning MVP Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets was atop the poll, followed by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder and Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks. Jokic has won three of the … [Read more...] about Nikola Jokic Ahead Of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Giannis Antetokounmpo In First ESPN NBA MVP Straw Poll
How a small Matt LaFleur wrinkle leads to explosive plays
Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images An old concept gets new life. The game of football is constantly evolving. Offenses adjust to the latest defensive trends and defensive counters, and offenses find counters to the counters. Nowhere is that more apparent than in how the league adjusts to the Kyle Shanahan tree of offenses with their wide zone running schemes and their … [Read more...] about How a small Matt LaFleur wrinkle leads to explosive plays
Film: Jeff Hafley curveballs confuse opposing quarterbacks
Photo by Jane Gershovich/Getty Images A few simple and basic, yet effective, curveballs on 3rd down from Jeff Hafley. All season long, Jeff Hafley has been using creative ways to get to his preferred third-down coverage, Tampa-2. He has a variety of ways to get to it, different zone drops for different defenders, and can use any combination of pass rushers that include … [Read more...] about Film: Jeff Hafley curveballs confuse opposing quarterbacks
NFL Week 16 Saturday: AFC doubleheader previews potential playoff participants
Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images Three teams that have locked in playoff spots — and a fourth that could do so today — will be in action this afternoon. The NFL is getting a bit crazy with scheduling this year. Week 17 will be a weird one, as the league has decided to put two games on Christmas Day despite the holiday falling on a Wednesday. In order to accommodate those … [Read more...] about NFL Week 16 Saturday: AFC doubleheader previews potential playoff participants
Packers vs. Saints Injury Report: S Evan Williams is questionable
Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images The starting safety was added to the injury report on Saturday The Green Bay Packers announced on Saturday that starting rookie safety Evan Williams is officially listed as questionable for the Packers’ Monday Night Football showdown against the New Orleans Saints. Williams did not appear on the injury report previously and was … [Read more...] about Packers vs. Saints Injury Report: S Evan Williams is questionable