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The Cowboys Hire Brian Schottenheimer as Head Coach

The Dallas Cowboys have named offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer as their 10th head coach in franchise history, a move that has raised eyebrows and sparked questions about the team’s decision-making process.

A Familiar Face with an Unfamiliar Role

Schottenheimer, who has spent the past two seasons as the Cowboys’ offensive coordinator under Mike McCarthy, has never held a head coaching position in the NFL. He had not been seriously considered for such a role since 2010, when he was the offensive coordinator of the New York Jets.

In addition, Schottenheimer did not call plays for the Cowboys during his tenure under McCarthy. That responsibility belonged to Moore in 2022 and McCarthy himself in 2023. As a result, Schottenheimer’s lack of experience as a playcaller and head coach has raised concerns about his qualifications for the position.

A Limited Search Process

The Cowboys’ search for a new head coach was notably limited compared to other teams with coaching vacancies. While other organizations interviewed numerous candidates, the Cowboys focused primarily on a small group of individuals, including two former head coaches (Robert Saleh and Leslie Frazier) and Moore.

The decision to hire Schottenheimer, who had not received interest in any other head coaching vacancies this cycle, has left many wondering if the Cowboys were thorough enough in their search for a new leader.

A Glimmer of Hope

Despite the concerns surrounding Schottenheimer’s lack of experience and the limited search process, the Cowboys remain optimistic about their new head coach. They believe his familiarity with the team and his relationship with quarterback Dak Prescott will be key to their success moving forward.

The Cowboys are also assembling a veteran staff to support Schottenheimer, with former Bears head coach Matt Eberflus as the early favorite to become defensive coordinator.

The Ultimate Question: Process vs. Results

The Cowboys’ decision to hire Schottenheimer highlights the ongoing debate between process and results in the NFL. While the team claims to have conducted a thorough search, the limited number of candidates interviewed and Schottenheimer’s lack of experience raise questions about the quality of the process.

Ultimately, the success or failure of Schottenheimer’s tenure will depend on his ability to lead the team and produce results. However, the Cowboys’ questionable decision-making process leaves open the possibility that they may have missed out on a more qualified candidate.

The Lingering Doubt

As the Cowboys prepare for Brian Schottenheimer’s tenure in Dallas, the question remains: who still trusts the Joneses? The same decision-makers who hired Schottenheimer have a history of questionable coaching hires, dating back over 30 years. They have overseen a mere four playoff wins since their last Super Bowl victory and have endured the longest drought without reaching the conference championship game in the entire NFC.

The Cowboys’ decision to hire Schottenheimer is a gamble that could either pay off or backfire spectacularly. Only time will tell if the Cowboys’ faith in their new head coach is justified or if they have made another costly mistake.

PFL Champions Series Road to Dubai Delivers Exciting Action

The Professional Fighters League (PFL) kicked off its 2025 season with the PFL Champions Series Road to Dubai event at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The event, dubbed “Dagestan vs. Ireland 2,” featured a Bellator title fight as the main event, as well as several other thrilling contests.

Usman Nurmagomedov Retains Bellator Lightweight Title

In the highly anticipated main event, Usman Nurmagomedov successfully defended his Bellator lightweight title against rising star Paul Hughes. The fight was a back-and-forth affair, with both fighters showcasing their skills. In the end, Nurmagomedov’s experience and grappling prowess proved to be the difference, as he earned a majority decision victory.

Vadim Nemkov Continues Dominance

Vadim Nemkov continued his impressive run as Bellator light heavyweight champion with a first-round submission victory over Timothy Johnson. Nemkov wasted no time in taking the fight to the ground and securing a rear-naked choke.

Akhmed Magomedov Impresses

Akhmed Magomedov returned from a lengthy layoff to defeat the highly touted Nathan Kelly via second-round submission. Magomedov showed no signs of ring rust, as he controlled the fight with his wrestling and ground game.

Ibragim Ibragimov Extends Unbeaten Streak

Ibragim Ibragimov remained undefeated with a dominant performance against Kenny Mokhonoana in a featherweight bout. The 20-year-old prospect used his wrestling and ground control to keep Mokhonoana at bay and earn a unanimous decision.

Renat Khavalov Earns Dominant Win

Renat Khavalov extended his record to 9-0 with a comprehensive victory over Cleiver Fernandes in a bantamweight bout. Khavalov’s striking and grappling proved too much for Fernandes, as he cruised to a unanimous decision.

PFL Champions Series Debuts in Style

The PFL Champions Series Road to Dubai was a successful debut for the PFL’s new format, which features more regular-season events leading up to the playoffs. The event showcased a variety of talented fighters and delivered exciting fights from start to finish.

The PFL has released the dates for its 2025 World Tournament season but has yet to announce the locations of those contests. Fight fans can expect more thrilling action as the PFL continues its global expansion.

Kansas City Chiefs vs. Buffalo Bills: AFC Championship Game 2025

The 2025 NFL playoffs have reached championship weekend, and one of the league’s most heated rivalries will be renewed on Sunday in the AFC Championship Game. The Kansas City Chiefs will host the Buffalo Bills with a trip to Super Bowl LIX on the line. The latest Bills vs. Chiefs forecast is calling for partly cloudy skies and mild temperatures, so the weather shouldn’t be a factor in this highly anticipated matchup.

The Bills hold a 4-1 advantage over the Chiefs in regular-season meetings, including a 30-21 victory on Nov. 17, 2024. However, the Chiefs have won both postseason matchups between the two teams, including a 38-24 victory in the 2022 AFC Divisional Round. Josh Allen will be looking to lead the Bills to their first Super Bowl appearance since 1993, while Patrick Mahomes will be aiming to guide the Chiefs to their third Super Bowl victory in four years.

Key Players

The Chiefs’ offense is led by quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who is one of the most dynamic players in the NFL. Mahomes has thrown for over 4,500 yards and 35 touchdowns this season, and he is also a threat to run with the ball. He has a great rapport with tight end Travis Kelce, who is one of the best pass-catching tight ends in the league. The Chiefs also have a solid running game, led by Clyde Edwards-Helaire and Jerick McKinnon.

The Bills’ offense is led by quarterback Josh Allen, who is also a dual-threat player. Allen has thrown for over 4,000 yards and 32 touchdowns this season, and he has also rushed for over 700 yards and 10 touchdowns. He has a strong receiving corps, led by Stefon Diggs and Gabriel Davis. The Bills also have a solid running game, led by James Cook.

Key Matchups

The key matchup in this game will be the Chiefs’ offense against the Bills’ defense. The Bills have one of the best defenses in the NFL, led by All-Pro cornerback Tre’Davious White. The Chiefs will need to find a way to exploit the Bills’ defense and get the ball into the hands of their playmakers. The Bills’ offense will also need to be prepared for a Chiefs’ defense that is led by All-Pro safety Tyrann Mathieu.

Prediction

This is a tough game to predict, but the Bills are the team to beat. They have a more well-rounded team, and they are playing with a lot of confidence. The Chiefs are always a threat with Mahomes at quarterback, but the Bills’ defense will be too much for them to overcome. The Bills will win this game and advance to Super Bowl LIX, where they will face the winner of the NFC Championship Game between the Philadelphia Eagles and the San Francisco 49ers.

Consistently Dominant: MSU Basketball Shines in Adversity

Michigan State Spartans basketball has showcased an unwavering steadiness in hostile environments, contributing to their impressive run of 12 consecutive wins and an undefeated 8-0 record in the Big Ten. Saturday’s victory over Rutgers at Madison Square Garden exemplified this resilience, as the Spartans expertly navigated a challenging atmosphere.

MSU’s depth proved instrumental in their success, with players such as Coen Carr, Jase Richardson, Frankie Fidler, Xavier Booker, and Tre Holloman making significant contributions. Their tenacity in rebounding and free-throw shooting, coupled with their composure, propelled them to victory.

Overcoming Opposing Energy at Madison Square Garden

Despite the electrifying atmosphere at Madison Square Garden, where Rutgers enjoyed the home-court advantage, the Spartans remained unyielding. They effectively countered the Scarlet Knights’ energy, weathering the initial surge and responding with a commanding 16-of-17 scoring run to gain a 19-11 lead.

Rutgers’ attempts to regain momentum were met with MSU’s patented backdoor alley-oop dunks, timely free throws, and well-coordinated offensive possessions. The Spartans’ poise was evident in their ability to maintain composure even as the Garden crowd swelled in support of the home team.

Coen Carr’s Stellar Performance

Coen Carr emerged as a standout performer for the Spartans, drawing praise from the coaching staff. He proved to be a defensive force against Rutgers’ Ace Bailey, a projected NBA top-five pick, while simultaneously contributing crucial offensive plays throughout the game.

Carr’s 14 points, eight rebounds, and two blocked shots showcased his versatility and impact on both ends of the court. His rebounding prowess, in particular, was critical in preserving possessions and maintaining MSU’s momentum.

Jase Richardson Breaks Out of Slump

After a brief dip in his offensive production, Jase Richardson returned to form against Rutgers, leading the team with 20 points on an efficient 6-of-9 shooting from the field, including 3-for-4 from beyond the arc.

Richardson’s resurgence is a positive sign for MSU as they prepare for the challenges that lie ahead. His ability to contribute as a reliable scorer off the bench raises the Spartans’ offensive ceiling and increases their chances of success in the NCAA tournament.

Resilience and Depth Bode Well for Future Success

MSU’s ability to handle the pressure and perform consistently in challenging environments bodes well for their future prospects. Their depth provides options and allows them to adapt to different situations effectively. As the season progresses, the Spartans will face more difficult tests, but based on their current form, they are well-equipped to overcome them.

Michigan State Defeats Rutgers 81-74, Extends Winning Streak to 12

In a thrilling contest at Madison Square Garden, No. 8 Michigan State Spartans secured their 12th consecutive victory by defeating Rutgers Scarlet Knights 81-74 on Saturday afternoon. The Spartans put on a dominant display, showcasing their remarkable depth and resilience.

Richardson’s Career-Best Performance

Freshman guard Jase Richardson emerged as the star of the game, exploding for a career-high 20 points. He shot an impressive 6-of-9 from the field, including three 3-pointers. Richardson’s contributions extended beyond scoring, as he also grabbed four rebounds and dished out an assist.

Balanced Scoring Effort

The Spartans’ triumph was a collective effort, with three players joining Richardson in double figures. Sophomore forward Coen Carr scored 14 points and tied his career-high with eight rebounds. Senior guard Jaden Akins added 12 points and five rebounds. Junior guard Tre Holloman chipped in nine points and led the team with six assists.

Dominant Second Half

After a tightly contested first half that ended with the Spartans holding a slim 35-32 advantage, Michigan State turned up the heat in the second half. They extended their lead to eight points and held off a late surge by the Scarlet Knights to secure the victory.

Key Stats

The Spartans shot 48.2 percent from the field compared to Rutgers’ 33.8 percent. They outrebounded the Scarlet Knights 44-34 and hit 84.6 percent of their free throws. Michigan State’s bench played a crucial role, scoring 50 points.

Richardson Leads the Way to Victory

Jase Richardson’s exceptional performance was a major catalyst in the Spartans’ victory. His offensive outburst and overall contributions helped Michigan State maintain control of the game and ultimately secure the win.

Continued Success for Spartans

Michigan State’s victory extends their winning streak to 12 games and improves their record to 17-2 overall and 8-0 in the Big Ten Conference. The Spartans remain atop the conference standings and are poised to continue their dominant run.

Upcoming Matchup

The Spartans will return home to the Breslin Center on Tuesday, January 28, to host Minnesota in a pivotal Big Ten matchup. The game tips off at 8 p.m. on Peacock.

Shiver Me Timbers: Gasparilla 2025 Arrives!

Prepare to set sail for adventure as Gasparilla 2025 descends upon Tampa Bay. This swashbuckling extravaganza promises a thrilling blend of pirate revelry, showcasing the city’s vibrant spirit.

The festivities commenced with an audacious Pirate Invasion, as hundreds of buccaneers stormed the bay, demanding the key to the city from Mayor Jane Castor. With a majestic fleet of vessels cruising through the waters, the pirates’ presence was an awe-inspiring sight.

The afternoon brought the much-anticipated Parade of Pirates along Bayshore Boulevard, a captivating spectacle that transported spectators to a realm of swashbuckling and merriment. Floats adorned with elaborate pirate regalia sailed through the streets, accompanied by a symphony of music and laughter.

The Pirate Invasion: A Swashbuckling Spectacle

At the stroke of 11:30 a.m., rumors of an impending pirate invasion began to circulate. True to their word, a formidable armada of pirate ships emerged on the horizon, their sails billowing in the wind. As the pirates approached the Tampa Convention Center, they demanded the key to the city, their voices echoing through the halls.

Mayor Jane Castor, embodying the spirit of a true buccaneer, met the pirates’ demands with resolute determination. At 1:08 p.m., she bestowed the coveted key upon the Ye Mystic Krewe, symbolizing the surrender of the city to the invading horde.

The Parade of Pirates: A Symphony of Swashbuckling Splendor

As the clock struck 2:30 p.m., the Parade of Pirates commenced, transforming Bayshore Boulevard into a vibrant tapestry of color and excitement. Elaborately decorated floats, manned by costumed pirates, showcased the city’s boundless creativity and love of revelry.

From the majestic pirate ships to the mischievous antics of the buccaneers, the parade captured the essence of the Gasparilla tradition. The air was filled with laughter, music, and the spirit of adventure, as spectators reveled in the spectacle.

Avast, Mateys! Gasparilla Concludes, Leaving a Legacy of Merriment

As the sun began its descent, the Gasparilla festivities drew to a close. The pirates, having plundered the city’s spirit of joy and camaraderie, set sail for their next adventure, leaving behind a treasure trove of memories for the people of Tampa Bay.

Gasparilla 2025 will forever be etched in the annals of the city’s history as a testament to the boundless imagination and unyielding spirit of its people. May the legend of the pirates’ invasion and parade continue to be passed down through generations, inspiring a love of adventure and a celebration of the Tampa Bay community.

Mel Gibson’s Flight Risk Expected to Soar at Box Office

The Mel Gibson-directed Flight Risk is flying to an $11 million to $12 million opening at the domestic box office, according to Friday returns. If those estimates hold, the action-thriller film will come in on the higher end of expectations, or even ahead.

It’s the first film Gibson has directed since 2016’s Hacksaw Ridge.

From Lionsgate, Flight Risk stars Mark Wahlberg as a pilot transporting an Air Marshal (Michelle Dockery) accompanying a mob-connected witness (Topher Grace) to trial. As they cross the Alaskan wilderness, tensions soar and trust is tested, as not everyone on board is who they seem — including the pilot.

Reviewers haven’t taken to the modestly budgeted movie. Ditto for audiences, which slapped it with a C CinemaScore.

While noting that it does provide some thrills, THR reviewer Frank Scheck writes, “its clunky dialogue, uneven performances and less-than-grade-A special effects ultimately make it the Spirit Airlines of airborne thrillers.”

Sony and TriStar’s female-fronted comedy One of Them Days, now in its second weekend, and Disney’s Mufasa: The Lion King, now in its sixth, are, now in its sixth, are in a close battle for No. 2 with $7 million to $8 million. Paramount’s Sonic the Hedgehog 3, also in its sixth weekend, is likewise holding in and is expected to take in another $5.1 million to place forth.

There’s also a close race brewing between new Stephen Soderbergh’s haunted horror-thriller Presence and Disney’s Thanksgiving animated blockbuster Moana 2 for fifth place with around $3 million each.

Soderbergh’s new specialty film has been praised by critics, while audiences only gave it a C+ (horror-themed pics can often receive a C grade).

Filmed in a single setting, Presence stars Lucy Liu, Chris Sullivan and newcomer Callina Liang star in this haunted house chiller about a family that appears on the brink of falling apart.

Numbers will be updated Sunday morning, along with a full top 10 and specialty box office report.

DJ Unk, a Legend in the Atlanta Hip-Hop Scene, Passes Away at 42

The world of hip-hop music is mourning the loss of Anthony Leonard Platt, known professionally as DJ Unk, a prominent figure in Atlanta’s hip-hop scene and a pioneer of the snap music subgenre. Platt, who was just 42 years old, passed away on January 24, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of infectious beats and energetic performances that defined Southern hip-hop.

The Rise of DJ Unk: From ‘Walk It Out’ to ‘2 Step’

Born and raised in Atlanta, Platt burst onto the music scene in the mid-2000s with his breakout hit single, “Walk It Out.” The song’s irresistible beat and catchy lyrics propelled it to the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100 chart, establishing DJ Unk as a force to be reckoned with. His debut album, Beat’n Down Yo Block!, further solidified his presence in the industry, featuring club anthems like “Walk It Out” and “2 Step” that became cultural staples for a generation of music lovers.

A Legacy of Collaboration and Innovation

Throughout his career, DJ Unk collaborated with notable artists and producers, including DJ Montay and V.I.C., leaving an indelible mark on the Atlanta music scene. His ability to blend hip-hop, snap, and other genres created a unique sound that resonated with audiences nationwide. DJ Unk’s contributions to the Southern hip-hop landscape will continue to inspire and influence generations to come.

Tributes and Condolences Pour In

The news of DJ Unk’s passing has sent shockwaves through the hip-hop community and beyond. Prominent producer and artist DJ Montay, who worked closely with DJ Unk on several tracks, expressed his grief on Facebook, writing, “RIP Unk glad to say we was able to make history together.” The Atlanta Falcons also paid tribute to the late rapper, posting a photo of him performing in a Falcons shirt. Multiple other artists in the Atlanta hip-hop community have taken to social media to express their condolences and share memories of DJ Unk’s impact.

A Loss to the Music World

The death of DJ Unk is a significant loss to the music world. His infectious beats, energetic delivery, and innovative style will be sorely missed. As we remember his contributions to hip-hop, we extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends, and fans. DJ Unk’s legacy will continue to live on through his music, inspiring and entertaining generations of music lovers for years to come.

New Tesla Model Y: A Comprehensive Overview

The latest Tesla Model Y, slated for release in 2025, is not a complete overhaul but rather a significant facelift of the existing model. Featuring a sleek new design inspired by the Cybertruck, the 2025 Model Y promises enhanced aerodynamics, a stiffer body shell, improved handling, and a quieter and more comfortable ride.

Styling, Design, and Dimensions

The Model Y maintains its previous dimensions, remaining a mid-size SUV that competes with rivals such as the Porsche Macan, Audi Q6 e-tron, and Ford Mustang Mach-E. The new fascia showcases a lower front splitter and a full-width headlight reminiscent of the Cybertruck, contributing to improved aerodynamics and an extended driving range. The rear of the vehicle also boasts a unique hidden light strip that reflects onto the bodywork, creating an ambient glow.

Interior Enhancements

One significant improvement is the return of the indicator stalk, which was controversially replaced with indicator buttons in the 2024 Model 3. The new Model Y features a precisely engineered stalk for a more familiar and intuitive driving experience.

Other interior upgrades include enhanced material finishes, ambient lighting, and glass that reflects sunlight to regulate cabin temperature. The massive 15.4-inch touchscreen remains, providing access to Tesla’s advanced software and connectivity features, including an improved Wi-Fi hotspot and enhanced phone key performance.

Comfort and Convenience

Comfort takes center stage in this update. The redesigned seats offer improved support and cushioning, both in the front and rear. The longer seat squabs and increased side support provide a more comfortable seating experience, especially on extended journeys.

Adding to the convenience, the rear seats now fold flat electrically, and the bootlid is powered. Additionally, a magnetic loadbay cover provides versatility for securing cargo.

Battery, Charging, and Range

While Tesla remains tight-lipped about battery capacities, the Model Y is likely to retain its 75kWh lithium-ion battery. Range improvements are primarily attributed to aerodynamic enhancements. The Model Y AWD Long Range, initially available in the UK, boasts a maximum WLTP range of 353 miles. Rapid charging capabilities remain impressive, with a peak rate of 250kW, enabling a 10-80% charge in under 30 minutes.

Price and Equipment

The 2025 Tesla Model Y comes with a price increase, with the limited edition Launch Series Long Range All-Wheel Drive model starting at £60,990 in the UK. This represents a significant jump from the outgoing Model Y AWD Long Range. While the launch edition includes heated and ventilated seats, customizable ambient lighting, and a choice of interior and exterior colors, the overall value proposition may be less appealing for some buyers.

Conclusion

Overall, the New Tesla Model Y 2025 offers a range of improvements that enhance its appeal as a premium electric SUV. The sleek new design, refined interior, and advanced features make it a compelling option for those seeking a combination of technology, comfort, and performance. However, the price increase may be a deterrent for some buyers, and it remains to be seen how the value proposition will compare to non-limited variants when they become available.

Similar Vehicles

If the Tesla Model Y is not meeting your needs, consider these alternative options:

• Porsche Macan
• Audi Q6 e-tron
• Ford Mustang Mach-E
• Kia EV6
• Renault Scenic E-Tech
• Toyota bZ4X

Carolina Hurricanes Acquire Mikko Rantanen and Taylor Hall

The Carolina Hurricanes made a blockbuster three-team trade on Friday, acquiring forwards Mikko Rantanen and Taylor Hall from the Colorado Avalanche and Chicago Blackhawks, respectively.

Rantanen’s Impact

Rantanen, a 28-year-old Finnish forward, has been a key player for the Avalanche since being drafted in 2015. In 619 career NHL games, he has amassed 681 points, including 287 goals and 394 assists. He was instrumental in Colorado’s Stanley Cup victory in 2022.

With 64 points in 49 games this season, Rantanen is expected to bolster the Hurricanes’ offense, which currently ranks fifth in the NHL with an average of 3.37 goals per game.

Hall’s Experience

Taylor Hall, a 33-year-old Canadian forward, brings a wealth of experience to Carolina. The 2017-18 Hart Trophy winner has played for six different NHL teams, amassing 721 points in 878 career games.

Hall, who has not played in the playoffs since 2023, is excited about the possibility of a deep playoff run with the Hurricanes, who have made the playoffs in six straight seasons.

The Cost of the Trade

In exchange for Rantanen and Hall, the Hurricanes sent forwards Jack Drury and Martin Necas to Colorado, along with a second-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft and a fourth-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft.

Carolina also acquired Chicago forward prospect Nils Juntorp, while Chicago received a third-round pick in the 2025 Draft from the Hurricanes and will retain 50 percent of Rantanen’s $9.25 million salary.

The Impact on Colorado and Chicago

The trade marks a significant shift for the Colorado Avalanche, who are currently holding the first wild card into the playoffs from the Western Conference.

Meanwhile, the Chicago Blackhawks, who acquired Hall to mentor Connor Bedard, the No. 1 pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, are currently 15th in the Western Conference and looking to rebuild.

Conclusion

The Carolina Hurricanes’ acquisition of Mikko Rantanen and Taylor Hall is a major move that strengthens their lineup and positions them as a contender for the Stanley Cup.

Rantanen’s offensive prowess and Hall’s playoff experience make them valuable additions to the team, while the departures of Drury and Necas provide Colorado and Chicago with young, talented players to build around.