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December 29, 2025.

United States forward James Hagens (10) celebrates after scoring during the second period of an IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship game against Slovakia, Monday, Dec. 29, 2025, in St. Paul, Minn. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)

BC’s James Hagens scores twice, US beats Slovakia 6-5 in world junior hockey

December 29, 2025

Boston College forward James Hagens scored in a 1:03 span late in the second period and early in the third and the United States overcame a two-goal deficit to beat Slovakia 6-5 on Monday night in the world junior hockey championship. Hagens tied it at 4 with 45 seconds left in the second, then gave the Americans the lead 18 seconds into the third. The United States matched Sweden at 3-0 in Group A play ahead of their New Year’s Eve showdown. In the early game, Sweden had four power-play goals in an 8-1 romp over Germany.

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Miami Heat center Bam Adebayo (13) shoots as Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) and guard Peyton Watson (8) defend during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Monday, Dec. 29, 2025, in Miami. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

Nuggets star Nikola Jokic hurts left knee, limps off court at halftime in Miami

December 29, 2025

Denver star Nikola Jokic limped off the court at halftime during the Nuggets’ game in Miami on Monday night. He appeared to hurt his left knee with about three seconds left before the intermission. Jokic was alone under the basket and stepped forward to help Denver’s Spencer Jones defend a drive by Miami’s Jaime Jaquez Jr. While backtracking, Jones stepped on Jokic’s left foot, and it seemed like the center’s knee buckled. Jokic, a three-time NBA MVP, collapsed to the court, grabbing at the knee and writhing in pain. He was helped to his feet and seemed to be in pain as he went to the locker room.

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Atlanta Falcons place kicker Zane Gonzalez (45) celebrates his field goal in the second half of an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Rams, Monday, Dec. 29, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Robinson runs for 195 yards as Falcons recover to upset Rams 27-24 on 51-yard field goal by Gonzalez

December 29, 2025

Zane Gonzalez kicked a 51-yard field goal with 21 seconds remaining and the Atlanta Falcons recovered after blowing two 21-point leads to upset the Los Angeles Rams 27-24. Bijan Robinson’s 93-yard touchdown run was the longest in Atlanta history. Jessie Bates III scored on a 34-yard interception return. The Falcons led 21-0 at halftime. Matthew Stafford recovered from throwing three interceptions to help the Rams pull even a 24-24. Stafford’s 11-yard touchdown pass to Puka Nacua tied the game. Robinson rushed for 195 yards and set the Falcons record for most scrimmage yards in a season.

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Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson (7) carries against Los Angeles Rams linebacker Omar Speights (48) in the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Dec. 29, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Bijan Robinson has longest rush TD in Falcons history, has team’s most scrimmage yards in a season

December 29, 2025

Bijan Robinson had the longest rushing score in Falcons history Monday night, one of two ways he entered their record book against the Rams. Robinson took off for a 93-yard rushing touchdown with 1:23 remaining in the second quarter against the Rams. The running back took the ball coast-to-coast directly after Xavier Watts picked off Matthew Stafford at Atlanta’s 7-yard line. Warrick Dunn was the previous record holder with a 90-yard rushing touchdown against the Giants in October 2006. Not long into the second half, Robinson added another record by breaking the franchise’s record for yards from scrimmage in a single season.

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FILE - North Texas quarterback Drew Mestemaker (17) throws a pass against South Florida in an NCAA college football game Friday, Oct. 10, 2025, in Denton, Texas. (AP Photo/Richard W. Rodriguez, File)

National passing leader Drew Mestemaker from No. 23 North Texas is entering transfer portal

December 29, 2025

National passing leader Drew Mestemaker says he is entering the transfer portal after his only season as the starter for No. 23 North Texas. Mestemaker leads all FBS passers with 4,379 yards and 34 touchdowns. He shared his decision in a social media post Monday. The redshirt freshman completed 319 of 463 passes with nine interceptions. North Texas set a school record with 12 wins this season. The 6-foot-4 passer with three seasons of eligibility remaining is expected to be one of the top passers available when the portal officially opens Friday.

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Carolina Hurricanes goaltender Pyotr Kochetkov watches the puck against the San Jose Sharks during the third period of an NHL hockey game in Raleigh, N.C., Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Karl DeBlaker)

Hurricanes goalie Kochetkov expected to have season-ending surgery

December 29, 2025

Carolina Hurricanes goalie Pyotr Kochetkov likely will miss the rest of the season after opting for surgery for a lingering lower-body injury. It’s another blow for the Hurricanes, who held the best record in the Eastern Conference at 23-11-3 entering Monday night’s game against the New York Rangers. Kochetkov is 6-2-0 this season with a 2.33 goals against average in nine outings. He has yet to undergo the surgery.

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Iowa guard Bennett Stirtz (14) drives to the basket past UMass-Lowell guard Xavier Spencer (11) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game, Monday, Dec. 29, 2025, in Iowa City, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

Stirtz scores 22 points to lead No. 25 Iowa over UMass Lowell, 90-62

December 29, 2025

Bennett Stirtz scored 22 points as No. 25 Iowa finished the nonconference part of its schedule with a 90-62 win over UMass Lowell. Iowa, which moved into The Associated Press Top 25 last week for the first time since the third week of the 2022-23 season, is off to its best start since the 2020-21 team opened 12-2. Cam Manyawu had 14 points and nine rebounds, Alvaro Folgueiras also scored 14 and Tavion Banks added 12 points for the Hawkeyes, who won their third consecutive game. Angel Montas Jr. had 23 points to lead UMass Lowell.

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FILE - Spc. Nelson Harrison, of the Louisiana National Guard, stands guard on Bourbon Street in the French Quarter, Jan. 2, 2025, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/George Walker IV, File)

National Guard to patrol New Orleans for New Year’s a year after deadly attack

December 29, 2025

A National Guard deployment in New Orleans authorized by President Donald Trump will begin Tuesday as part of a heavy security presence for New Year’s celebrations. It comes a year after an attack on New Year’s revelers on Bourbon Street killed 14 people. Officials say 350 Guard members will operate in the city through Carnival, which ends in mid-February, and will be confined to the French Quarter popular with tourists. New Orleans police say the Guard is there for visibility and safety and that in all, more than 800 law enforcement officials will be deployed to enhance security and public trust.

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Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman reacts on the sideline during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Stanford, Saturday, Nov. 29, 2025, in Stanford, Calif. (AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez)

Marcus Freeman will return to Notre Dame after having his contract restructured, school confirms

December 29, 2025

Notre Dame confirmed coach Marcus Freeman had his contract restructured and he will coach the Fighting Irish in 2026. SI.com first reported Freeman’s revised contract and that he notified two NFL teams that had contacted him about jobs that he would stay at Notre Dame. SI.com reported Freeman’s contract was extended one year, through 2031. Financial terms were not available. Freeman is 43-12 in four-plus seasons as head coach of the Irish. Notre Dame won 10 straight games following an 0-2 start and opted to not play in a bowl when it was passed over for a College Football Playoff spot.

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President Donald Trump speaks during a news conference with Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at Mar-a-Lago, Monday, Dec. 29, 2025, in Palm Beach, Fla. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

US military carries out 30th strike on alleged drug boat

December 29, 2025

The U.S. military says it has conducted another strike against a boat accused of smuggling drugs in the eastern Pacific Ocean, killing two people. The strike, which was announced Monday by U.S. Southern Command on social media, brings the total number of known boat strikes to 30 and the number of people killed at least 107 since early September. Along with the strikes, the Trump administration has built up military forces in the region as part of an escalating pressure campaign against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. When asked Monday about “an explosion in Venezuela,” President Donald Trump said the U.S. “hit” a dock facility along a shore where boats accused of carrying drugs “load up.”

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Judge halts a Georgia execution over inmate’s concerns about the clemency process

December 29, 2025

A Georgia judge has ordered a temporary pause to a December execution that had already been put on hold. The judge said in an order Monday that questions about Georgia’s clemency process must be addressed before Stacey Humphreys’ death sentence could be carried out. Humphreys had faced scheduled execution Dec. 17 for the fatal shootings of two women near Atlanta in 2003 but the lethal injection was called off beforehand. Humphreys’ lawyers argue that two members of Georgia’s parole board have conflicts of interest that could affect his clemency hearing. The judge ordered more legal briefs to be filed on the issue by Jan. 19.

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Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Myles Murphy (99) reacts after sacking Arizona Cardinals quarterback Jacoby Brissett, not pictured during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Jeff Dean)

Bengals defense takes another step with strong performance versus Arizona

December 29, 2025

Facing the seventh-ranked passing game in the NFL, the Cincinnati Bengals’ maligned defense turned in its best performance of the season in a 37-14 victory over the Arizona Cardinals. The Bengals emptied their bench in the fourth quarter with a 30-point lead, and Arizona was able to move the ball in the fourth quarter against Cincinnati’s backups. But through three quarters, Cardinals quarterback Jacoby Brissett was held to 86 passing yards. The Cardinals also finished the game averaging just 3.2 yards per carry.

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New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough (6) passes against the Tennessee Titans in the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/John Amis)

Saints’ Moore and Shough exhibiting coach-QB synergy during New Orleans’ winning streak

December 29, 2025

First-year head coach Kellen Moore and rookie quarterback Tyler Shough have the New Orleans Saints on their longest winning streak since Drew Brees was still playing under Sean Payton’s direction back in 2020. Four straight victories have given the Saints hope that Moore has the club trending in the right direction and that they won’t need to use a first-round draft choice on a QB. Shough’s last two games have been his best statistically. He eclipsed 300 yards passing in both. In Sunday’s 34-26 victory at Tennessee, Shough’s quarterback rating of 142.7 was the highest ever by a Saints rookie QB. However, none of New Orleans’ six victories this season have come against a team that currently has a winning record.

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Georgia Southern running back OJ Arnold (22) carries the ball as Appalachian State defensive back Jordan Favors (7) pursues during the first half of the Birmingham Bowl NCAA college football game, Monday, Dec. 29, 2025, in Birmingham. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)

Georgia Southern beats Appalachian State 29-10, wins Birmingham Bowl

December 29, 2025

OJ Arnold had 152 yards rushing on 11 carries, Terrance Gibbs and Weston Bryant each had a rushing touchdown, and Georgia Southern beat Appalachian State 29-10 to win the Birmingham Bowl. Georgia Southern (7-6) has made a bowl appearance in four consecutive seasons — all under fourth-year coach Clay Helton — for the first time in program history. Gibbs ran for a 1-yard touchdown about 6 1/2 minutes into the game that gave the Eagles the lead for good. Matthew Wilson was 12-of-22 passing for 128 yards and threw two interceptions for Appalachian State (5-8) and added 110 yards rushing — which included a 6-yard scoring run — late in the first half. Wilson, a redshirt freshman, made his first appearance for Appalachian State.

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Illinois forward David Mirkovic looks to pass as DaMariee Jones defends during an NCAA college basketball game against Southern University Monday, Dec. 29, 2025, in Champaign, Ill. (AP Photo/Craig Pessman)

Jake Davis, Keaton Wagler power No. 20 Illinois to a 90-55 win over Southern

December 29, 2025

Jake Davis hit five 3-pointers and finished with 15 points and Keaton Wagler had 11 points, 10 assists and seven rebounds as No. 20 Illinois closed out its non-conference schedule with a 90-55 win over Southern. Zvonimir Ivisic had 13 points and three blocked shots, and his twin brother, Tomislav, added 11 points and seven rebounds for the Illini (10-3). David Mirkovic also had 11 points. Michael Jacobs scored 11 points for Southern (4-9), which lost its fifth straight and fell to 1-9 on the road.

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Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh watches during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Saturday, Dec. 27, 2025, in Green Bay, Wis. (AP Photo/Matt Ludtke)

Harbaugh hopes Jackson can return after Huntley’s big win: ‘If Lamar’s ready to go, he’s playing.’

December 29, 2025

Baltimore Ravens coach John Harbaugh says he’ll have a better sense Wednesday about quarterback Lamar Jackson’s status for Sunday night’s game at Pittsburgh that will decide the AFC North title. Tyler Huntley helped Baltimore keeps its playoff hopes alive, replacing an injured Jackson for last weekend’s win at Green Bay. But Harbaugh said Monday if Jackson is ready, he’ll play Sunday. Jackson has been nursing a back injury from two weekends ago against New England. The Green Bay game was the fourth game he’s missed this season.

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San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy jogs off the field after an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears in Santa Clara, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025. (AP Photo/Jed Jacobsohn)

How the 49ers defied the odds to battle for the NFC’s top seed

December 29, 2025

The San Francisco 49ers have a chance to clinch the No. 1 seed in the NFC playoffs despite early season injuries to key players Nick Bosa and Fred Warner. They face the Seattle Seahawks in the regular-season finale needing a win to earn the top seed. Fullback Kyle Juszczyk expressed surprise at the team’s 12-4 record, calling it a special season. Coach Kyle Shanahan praised quarterback Brock Purdy, who has led the team to six straight wins since returning from injury. The 49ers’ running game has improved, but their pass defense remains a concern. They hope to have George Kittle back from injury for Saturday’s game.

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FILE - Miami head coach Mario Cristobal claps after his team, leaves the field for a time out against Texas A&M during the first quarter in the first round of the College Football Playoff, Dec. 20, 2025, in College Station, Texas. (AP Photo/Sam Craft, File)

Defending national champ Ohio State in high Cotton against CFP 1st-timer Miami

December 29, 2025

The Cotton Bowl has gotten much more significant for Ohio State during three trips in a row to the game. This time, the second-seeded Buckeyes are defending national champions. They play College Football Playoff first-timer Miami in a quarterfinal game there Wednesday night. The Cotton Bowl last January was a CFP semifinal game when Ohio State beat Texas on its way to a sixth AP national title. Two years ago, in a Cotton Bowl without playoff implications, Ohio State lost to Missouri. Tenth-seeded Miami made its CFP debut with a 10-3 win in the first round at No. 7 seed Texas A&M on Dec. 20.

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Indianapolis Colts quarterback Philip Rivers (17) watches from the sideline during the second half of an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

Colts need to start contemplating future following playoff elimination

December 29, 2025

Indianapolis Colts coach Shane Steichen wants to stay focused on the present. There’s still one game left on the 2025 schedule after all, meaning Indy still could snap a six-game losing streak and finish above .500. But after becoming the first team in 30 years to start 8-2 and miss the playoffs, the Colts should use this week to start pondering fixes for next season and a future that likely doesn’t include 44-year-old quarterback Philip Rivers. No, Steichen doesn’t want to be known as the guy who pulled the plug on his longtime friend’s 18-year career. Yet it’s a decision he knows he’ll have to make.

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The Stephens County courthouse is seen in Duncan, Okla., June 17, 2014. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki, File)

Oklahoma man firing gun in yard fatally shoots neighbor sitting blocks away, authorities say

December 29, 2025

An Oklahoma man has been charged with manslaughter after authorities say he fatally shot his neighbor during target practice with a gun he’d purchased for himself as a Christmas gift. Thirty-three-year-old Cody Wayne Adams was charged Friday in Stephens County with first-degree manslaughter. He was booked into jail and later released on a $100,000 bond. According to a sheriff’s affidavit, Adams told investigators he was target shooting with a .45-caliber handgun around the time Sandra Phelps was shot while holding a child on the front porch of a nearby home. A message left with Adams’ attorney wasn’t immediately returned.

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Anthony Spina, center, works on the floor at the New York Stock Exchange in New York, Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2025. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

Stocks slip on Wall Street as 2025 winds down

December 29, 2025

Stocks slipped on Wall Street, while crude oil prices rose and gold and silver prices pulled back after recent sharp gains. The S&P 500 fell 0.3% Monday. With just two more trading days left in 2025, the S&P 500 is up more than 17% for the year. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.5%. The Nasdaq composite also fell 0.5%. Energy stocks gained ground along with rising oil prices. Treasury yields fell in the bond market. Wall Street faces another short week in the final stretch of 2025. Markets in the U.S. will be closed Thursday for New Year’s Day.

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Southern California head coach Lincoln Riley walks on the field during the first half of an NCAA college football game against UCLA, Saturday, Nov. 29, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Kyusung Gong)

USC’s Lincoln Riley says Notre Dame is to blame for discontinuation of rivalry with the Trojans

December 29, 2025

USC coach Lincoln Riley emphatically stated that Notre Dame is responsible for the pause in the near 100-year rivalry with the Trojans. Riley assigned blame Monday in San Antonio as No. 16 USC prepares to take on TCU in the Valero Alamo Bowl. A joint press conference with Horned Frogs coach Sonny Dykes was the first time Riley had a chance to speak about the discontinuation of the series, and the Trojans coach had a lot to say. In place of USC, Notre Dame announced a home-and-home series with BYU for 2026 and 2027.

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Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers walks off the field after an NFL football game against the Cleveland Browns, Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, in Cleveland. (AP Photo/David Richard)

The erratic Steelers blew a chance to clinch the AFC North in Cleveland. Week 18 could go either way

December 29, 2025

The Pittsburgh Steelers will have to regroup after missing out on a golden chance to clinch the AFC North. The Steelers sputtered for long stretches in a 13-6 loss to last-place Cleveland as the offense struggled without suspended star receiver DK Metcalf. Pittsburgh can still reach the playoffs for the fifth time in six years by beating Baltimore in Week 18, but the Steelers’ confidence could be shaky after leaving the door open for the Ravens. Pittsburgh could have outside linebacker T.J. Watt available after he missed the last three weeks while recovering from surgery to repair a partially collapsed lung.

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Water sits in a ditch Friday, Dec. 12, 2025, in El Centro, Calif. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

No motive revealed in killing of prominent California farmer’s estranged wife in Arizona

December 29, 2025

Investigators declined to reveal the suspected motive in the shooting death of a prominent California farmer’s estranged wife last month in eastern Arizona. However, they said the couple’s prolonged divorce case arose in nearly all interviews with family and friends.  Michael Abatti was arrested Dec. 23 on suspicion of murder. She was found dead in her family’s vacation home in Pinetop, Arizona. An attorney for Michael Abatti said his client remains innocent under the law. The couple split in 2023 and Kerri Abatti filed for divorce in proceedings that were pending in California at the time of her death.

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FILE - Vanderbilt quarterback Ken Seals (8) looks to throw a pass against Auburn in the first half of an NCAA college football game, Nov. 4, 2023, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/George Walker IV, File)

Senior Ken Seals gets chance to lead his hometown Horned Frogs against No. 16 Trojans in Alamo Bowl

December 29, 2025

Senior quarterback Ken Seals will get a chance to lead his hometown TCU Horned Frogs against No. 16 Southern California in the Alamo Bowl on Tuesday after Josh Hoover opted to enter the transfer portal. Seals passed for 4,389 yards and 29 touchdowns over three seasons for Vanderbilt in 34 games, including 22 starts. He entered the transfer portal in January 2024 with the intention of returning home. He grew up about 23 miles from TCU’s campus. TCU wide receiver Eric McAlister stood up for Seals’ opportunity during a recent team meeting. McAlister urged his teammates to play in the Alamo Bowl.

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Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young celebrates after scoring against the Seattle Seahawks during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, in Charlotte, N.C. (AP Photo/Jacob Kupferman)

Panthers’ Bryce Young could see more man-to-man defense after major flop against Seahawks

December 29, 2025

Bryce Young could face more man-to-man coverage against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Saturday. The Seattle Seahawks used the strategy against the Panthers on Sunday and limited Young to 54 yards passing and one interception. Carolina’s top receivers struggled, combining for just 24 yards. Coach Dave Canales noted the Seahawks’ disciplined defense forced checkdowns. Despite the Panthers’ defense allowing 27 points, they held the Seahawks to just 3 points in the first half. Carolina’s running game has faltered recently and their run defense struggled against Seattle. The Panthers lost tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders for the season to broken ankle.

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Buffalo Bills' Josh Allen (17) is tackled short of a touchdown by Philadelphia Eagles' Jaelan Phillips (50) and Jordan Davis (90) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, in Buffalo, N.Y. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Josh Allen could use a break, and he’s expected to get one in Buffalo’s season finale against Jets

December 29, 2025

Bills quarterback Josh Allen can use a rest. He’s expected to get one Sunday in what’s essentially a meaningless regular-season finale against the Jets. Aside from taking the opening snap to extend his streak of consecutive regular-season starts to 122, the longest active run among NFL quarterbacks, Allen is expected to watch the game from the sideline. The time off would provide Allen’s sore right foot time to heal before Buffalo opens the playoffs on the road in the wild-card round in two weeks. He also could use a mental break during a season in which he’s been relied upon to carry the offensive load too often.

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Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence celebrates after scoring during the second half of an NFL football game against the Indianapolis Colts Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

Jaguars show warrior mentality in latest win that has them poised for AFC playoffs

December 29, 2025

Jacksonville’s best win of its surprising season transpired at Indianapolis. Not only did the Jaguars play without three starters, including two offensive linemen, they had a handful of players dealing with illness. They also fell behind 10-0 in their second consecutive road game and were dealt the kind of early game adversity that would have caused recent iterations of this franchise to crumble. The Jaguars rallied to win 23-17 and showed just how ready they are for anything that comes their way in the postseason. Now they look to clinch the AFC South by beating Tennessee in the regular-season finale.

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Tennessee Titans wide receiver Elic Ayomanor (5) reacts after losing to the New Orleans Saints in an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/George Walker IV)

Titans try to focus on Jaguars knowing change is coming after season finale

December 29, 2025

The Tennessee Titans know change is coming once this season is finished. The challenge now is staying focused on the finale Sunday in Jacksonville. The Titans won’t get another chance to string together consecutive wins until the 2026 season starts. Hiring a new coach is the first task on the offseason to-do list. These Titans missed out once again on winning back-to-back games with their home finale loss to the New Orleans Saints. That continues a drought that stretches back to November 2022. Worse, the Titans blew a 13-point lead in losing to the Saints. A win Sunday would be Tennessee’s third in the final five games.

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Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans watches from the sideline during the first half of an NFL football game against the Las Vegas Raiders, Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025, in Houston. (AP Photo/Eric Christian Smith)

Texans defy odds to reach playoffs after 0-3 start, extend winning streak to eight games

December 29, 2025

The Houston Texans became the fifth team since 1990 to reach the playoffs after opening the season 0-3 and the first team to do it twice with their win over the Los Angeles Chargers on Saturday. The Texans (11-5) extended their winning streak to eight games with the 20-16 victory to join their 2018 team, the 1992 Chargers, 1995 Lions, and 1998 Bills as the only teams since 1990 to lose their first three games and advance to the playoffs. It’s Houston’s third straight trip to the playoffs, which is a franchise record and coach DeMeco Ryans and quarterback C.J. Stroud are the fourth coach/QB duo in NFL history to advance to the postseason in each of their first three seasons.

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FILE - Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem appears before the House Committee on Homeland Security on Capitol Hill in Washington, Thursday, Dec. 11, 2025. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein, File)

Homeland Security says a fraud investigation is underway in Minneapolis

December 29, 2025

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem says that federal Homeland Security officials are conducting a fraud investigation in Minneapolis. Noem has posted a video Monday on the social platform X showing DHS officers going into an unidentified business and questioning the person working behind the counter. Noem says that officers were “conducting a massive investigation on childcare and other rampant fraud.” The action comes a day after FBI Director Kash Patel said on X that the agency had “surged personnel and investigative resources to Minnesota to dismantle large-scale fraud schemes exploiting federal programs.”

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CORRECTS TO HEARING, NOT ARRAIGNMENT - U.S. Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, D-Fla., left, speaks to the media as her lawyer David Markus looks on after a hearing in federal court Monday, Dec. 29, 2025 in Miami. (AP Photo/Terry Renna)

Florida congresswoman accused of stealing COVID funds maintains innocence

December 29, 2025

U.S. Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick has reiterated her innocence outside a Miami federal courthouse, where she faces charges of conspiring to steal $5 million in federal COVID-19 disaster funds. Cherfilus-McCormick was scheduled to be arraigned on Monday, but her attorney requested the proceeding be rescheduled to Jan. 20 so that she could finalize her legal team. Prosecutors didn’t object, and Judge Lisette Reid agreed to the new date. After leaving court, Cherfilus-McCormick reiterated that she did not steal any funds and that she’s committed to the people of Florida. Cherfilus-McCormick has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

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FILE - In this Monday, May 19, 2014 photo, swans swim in Lake Eola as the sun sets in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux, File)

Officials suspect bird flu after 12 swans die at Orlando’s Lake Eola

December 29, 2025

A dozen iconic swans at Lake Eola in downtown Orlando have died recently from an unknown cause. Officials suspect bird flu might be responsible. Orlando City Commissioner Patty Sheehan said Monday the deaths don’t appear suspicious. About five dozen swans lived at the park before this incident. The last bird flu outbreak there was in February 2024. The deaths occurred during the holiday season, so specialized veterinarians weren’t immediately available. The dead swans are stored securely for necropsies to determine the cause. The swans, symbols of the city, have been at Lake Eola for over a century.

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FILE -The Edward R. Roybal Center and Federal Building is seen Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope, File)

Judge dismisses criminal case against TikTok streamer held in immigration detention

December 29, 2025

A federal judge has dismissed a criminal case against a popular Los Angeles TikTok streamer who is currently being held in immigration detention. U.S. District Court Judge Fernando Olguin wrote in a Saturday ruling that Carlitos Ricardo Parias’ constitutional rights were violated after his defense lawyers were denied access to him in immigration detention ahead of his criminal trial. U.S. prosecutors say they are evaluating options for appeal. The charges stemmed from an October incident in which federal authorities said Parias rammed his vehicle into theirs while they tried to arrest him on an immigration warrant and shot him in the elbow.

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Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid watches during the second half of an NFL football game against the Tennessee Titans, Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/John Amis)

Andy Reid plans to return as Chiefs coach next season

December 29, 2025

Kansas City Chiefs coach Andy Reid says he plans to return next season, dismissing any retirement rumors. On Monday, he joked about his status with the franchise he’s led to three Super Bowl titles. Reid, 67, is used to fielding questions about his future after the Super Bowl, but this season, Kansas City is 6-10 and out of playoff contention. Reid signed a five-year extension in April 2024. He spent 14 seasons with the Eagles before joining the Chiefs, where he’s had great success with quarterbacks Alex Smith and Patrick Mahomes. Reid has 307 wins, needing 18 more to pass George Halas for third on the NFL’s all-time list.

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FILE - Fernando Lovo of the Jacksonville Jaguars NFL football team in 2021. (AP Photo/File)

Colorado hires New Mexico’s Fernando Lovo to succeed Rick George as athletic director

December 29, 2025

Colorado has hired Fernando Lovo as its athletic director, succeeding Rick George. Lovo officially starts on Thursday. He previously served as New Mexico’s athletic director, where the Lobos won eight Mountain West titles in 2025. Lovo expressed excitement about joining Colorado, emphasizing the importance of shaping the future of college athletics. His past achievements include hiring successful coaches and generating record revenue for New Mexico’s athletic department.

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Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni reacts after the Eagles blocked an extra point attempt during the second half of an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, in Buffalo, N.Y. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Eagles still have No. 2 or No. 3 seed in NFC at stake headed into finale against Washington

December 29, 2025

The Philadelphia Eagles are gearing up for their Week 18 home game against Washington, aiming for a strong playoff position. They could secure the No. 2 seed if they beat the Commanders and Chicago loses to Detroit. This would mean more home playoff games, similar to last season’s Super Bowl run. Coach Nick Sirianni, with 65 wins, is second in franchise history. The Eagles’ defense has been a standout, sacking Josh Allen five times and holding Buffalo’s top-rushing offense to 120 yards. Jalen Hurts struggled with passing in the second half, but the team remains confident heading into the playoffs.

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President Donald Trump attends a joint news conference with Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy following a meeting at Trump's Mar-a-Lago club, Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, in Palm Beach, Fla. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Trump indicates the US ‘hit’ a facility that he tied to alleged drug boats

December 29, 2025

President Donald Trump has indicated that the U.S. has “hit” a facility in South America as he wages a pressure campaign on Venezuela. But the U.S. has offered no other details. Trump made the comments in what seemed to be an impromptu radio interview Friday. Trump said that on Dec. 24, the U.S. “hit” a facility that he seemed to suggest alleged drug-ferrying boats originate from and said “we knocked that out.” The Pentagon has referred questions to the White House, which did not immediately respond to a message seeking comment. The press office of Venezuela’s government also did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Trump’s statement.

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FILE - Steve Martin, Randy Newman and Chevy Chase rehearse a musical number at the NBC studios in New York's Rockefeller Center, Dec. 5, 1986, in preparation for their reunion on "Saturday Night Live." (AP Photo/Richard Drew, File)

Chevy Chase is under the spotlight in a new documentary, warts and all — and he’s OK with it

December 29, 2025

Chevy Chase’s new documentary, “I’m Chevy Chase and You’re Not,” explores his complex personality and career. Directed by Marina Zenovich, it airs on CNN on New Year’s Day. The film covers Chase’s journey from his troubled childhood to his time on “Saturday Night Live” and Hollywood success, ending with his stint on “Community.” Zenovich includes insights from Dan Aykroyd, Beverly D’Angelo and others. Chase’s humor is seen as a coping mechanism for past trauma. Despite his reputation for being difficult, Chase approves of the film, calling it both painful and lovely, like a massage.

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Miami Dolphins quarterback Quinn Ewers (14) looks to pass against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

Dolphins are getting production from their young players, an encouraging sign for the future

December 29, 2025

Mike McDaniel stood in the locker room after the Miami Dolphins’ 20-17 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and began calling out the names of the game’s most impactful players. McDaniel then rattled off several members of the Dolphins’ rookie class who played key roles in the victory. With Miami already eliminated from playoff contention, the final games of the season have provided extended opportunities for young players. On Sunday the Dolphins got meaningful contributions from their rookies, an encouraging sign as the franchise looks toward the future.

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Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield speaks during a news conference after an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins, Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

Buccaneers are still in the race for the NFC South title despite an eighth loss in 10 games

December 29, 2025

Coach Todd Bowles keeps referring to “certain guys” being a problem. Mike Evans said the team played like it was ready to go home. Players are squabbling on the sideline. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have collapsed in the second half but still remain alive in the playoff race despite a 20-17 loss at Miami. They don’t deserve to win the NFC South after losing four straight, seven of eight and eight of 10. But a victory over the Carolina Panthers next week coupled with a loss by Atlanta against the Rams on Monday night or to the Saints in Week 18 would give the 7-9 Buccaneers their fifth straight division title.

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Tennessee quarterback Joey Aguilar (6) throws to a receiver during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Vanderbilt, Saturday, Nov. 29, 2025, in Knoxville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Wade Payne)

Tennessee and Illinois set for Music City Bowl with each team missing starters

December 29, 2025

Playing the Music City Bowl isn’t exactly what the Tennessee Volunteers once targeted in a season that featured four losses to teams inside the top 15 of the final College Football Playoff rankings. Coach Josh Heupel said there’s been some disappointment with Tennessee’s standard chasing and winning championships. Tennessee plays Illinois on Tuesday for the first time ever. The Vols can finish with nine wins for a fourth consecutive season for their longest such stretch since five straight between 1995 and 1999. Illinois can notch its first back-to-back nine-win seasons for the first time in program history.

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FILE - An employee of Pro Aurum gold house lifts 1 Kg silver bars of 999.9 purity besides 1 Kg gold bars in the safe deposit boxes room in Munich, Germany, Friday, April 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Matthias Schrader, File)

Surging silver and gold slide after CME raises margin requirements

December 29, 2025

Silver and gold futures are falling sharply after the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, one of the world’s largest trading floors for commodities, required traders to put up more cash to invest in precious metals. The CME raised margin requirements after a surge in speculation. Silver futures dropped almost 9% early Monday, while gold slid 5%. Silver has skyrocketed this year, surpassing its record from the early 1980s. Supplies have dwindled, with increased industrial demand for solar panels and data centers, as well as speculation. Gold prices have risen due to geopolitical uncertainty and signs of inflation.

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FILE - A canning jar filled with money sits on a shelf in East Derry, N.H., June 15, 2018. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa, File)

Find inspiration for achieving your financial resolutions and money goals in 2026

December 29, 2025

The start of a new year usually brings new motivation to achieve goals. Sometimes it involves eating healthier or finally cleaning your basement. But, for many, it can also include goals to pay off credit card debt, save for a new house, or simply get more educated about money. As many start writing their New Year’s resolutions, financial goals are also making the list. When building your goals for 2026, experts recommend focusing less on the past and more on an optimistic yet realistic vision for the future.

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Tyler Perry’s accuser sent messages of gratitude and friendship years after alleged assault

December 29, 2025

Text message screenshots obtained by The Associated Press show that Tyler Perry and “Boo! A Madea Halloween” actor Mario Rodriguez remained in contact years after Rodriguez claims Perry assaulted him. Rodriguez filed a lawsuit last week alleging assaults between 2014 and 2019. However, the text message screenshots show Rodriguez reaching out to Perry as recently as Thanksgiving 2024 and August 2025, expressing gratitude and discussing financial distress. Perry’s attorney, Alex Spiro, called the lawsuit a “$77 million money grab scam.” Perry has denied the allegations. The lawsuit follows a separate case by actor Derek Dixon, who also accused Perry of misconduct. Perry also has denied those claims.

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In Memoriam

Miriam Ruth Dunmire | 12/29/2025

December 29, 2025

View The Obituary For Miriam Ruth Dunmire. Please join us in Loving, Sharing and Memorializing Miriam Ruth Dunmire on this permanent online memorial presented by Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home.

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In Memoriam

Miriam Ruth Dunmire | 12/29/2025

December 29, 2025

View The Obituary For Miriam Ruth Dunmire. Please join us in Loving, Sharing and Memorializing Miriam Ruth Dunmire on this permanent online memorial presented by Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home.

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FILE - The Iowa Capitol building is viewed Jan. 7, 2020, in Des Moines, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall, File)

AP Decision Notes: What to expect in Iowa’s state Senate special election

December 29, 2025

Voters in a Democratic-leaning West Des Moines-area district will pick a new state senator Tuesday in a special election that could allow Iowa Republicans to regain a supermajority in the chamber. Democrat Renee Hardman and Republican Lucas Loftin are the nominees to replace three-term Democratic state Sen. Claire Celsi, who died Oct. 6. Republicans hold a lopsided 33-16 advantage in the state Senate, one seat shy of the 34 needed for a supermajority. Iowa Democrats broke the GOP’s lock on the chamber in an August special election.

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Alabama defensive back Zabien Brown (2) celebrates his touchdown against Oklahoma during the first half in the first round of an NCAA College Football Playoff, Friday, Dec. 19, 2025, in Norman, Okla. (AP Photo/Nate Billings)

Zabien Brown has a ‘clutch gene’ that has become part of Alabama’s DNA heading into the Rose Bowl

December 29, 2025

Alabama cornerback Zabien Brown has a knack for making big plays. He’s delivered so many during two seasons with the Crimson Tide that there’s only one explanation: it’s part of his DNA. He says he has “that clutch gene.” He’s on the verge of becoming legendary and could get there when Alabama (10-3) plays No. 1 Indiana (13-0) and Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Fernando Mendoza in the Rose Bowl in the quarterfinals of the College Football Playoff on Thursday. Brown, a sophomore from California, returned two interceptions for touchdowns this season, including a 50-yarder against Oklahoma in the opening round of the CFP.

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