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STEVE REED Sports Writer.

FILE - Clemson players touch Howard's Rock as they run onto the field for an NCAA college football game against Georgia Tech Saturday, Sept. 18, 2021, in Clemson, S.C. (AP Photo/John Bazemore, File)

Clemson’s Howard’s Rock, ‘Play Like a Champion Today’ signs among beloved totems in college football

October 10, 2025

NFL Pro Bowl player Hunter Renfrow says few experiences compare to Clemson’s tradition of touching Howard’s Rock. Before each home game, players touch the rock and run down a hill into Memorial Stadium with 80,000 fans cheering them on. The tradition began in 1966. Renfrow says the ritual embodies sacrifice and team spirit. The rock is a literal totem, one of the most well-known across college football along with the likes of the “Play Like a Champion Today” signs at Oklahoma and Notre Dame and the M Club banner at Michigan.

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Carolina Panthers running back Chuba Hubbard runs against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 21, 2025, in Charlotte, N.C. (AP Photo/Jacob Kupferman)

Panthers RB Chuba Hubbard out vs. Miami with calf injury, Rico Dowdle to start, AP source says

October 3, 2025

A person familiar with the situation says Carolina Panthers running back Chuba Hubbard will miss Sunday’s game against the Miami Dolphins with a nagging calf injury. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the team hasn’t yet released its injury report. Rico Dowdle will start in Hubbard’s place, with Trevor Etienne and DeeJay Dallas as backups. Hubbard played through the injury last week at New England but saw reduced reps. Last season, Hubbard ran for nearly 1,200 yards and 10 touchdowns. This season, he’s been limited to 217 yards and hasn’t scored a rushing touchdown.

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Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill (10) talks with a staff member as he is carted off the field after suffering an unknown lower leg injury in the second half of an NFL football game against the New York Jets, Monday, Sept. 29, 2025, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)

Dolphins look to forge ahead without Tyreek Hill, beginning Sunday against the Panthers

October 2, 2025

The Miami Dolphins face a challenge as they prepare to play Carolina without star wide receiver Tyreek Hill. He suffered a season-ending knee injury during their win over the New York Jets on Monday night. Coach Mike McDaniel will rely on Jaylen Waddle and others to fill the gap. Hill had missed just one game since joining the Dolphins. Meanwhile, the Panthers might also see changes in their lineup. Running back Chuba Hubbard is dealing with a calf injury, which could lead to more action for Rico Dowdle. Both teams bring 1-3 records into Sunday’s game.

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Syracuse head coach Fran Brown heads off the field after defeating Clemson in an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025, in Clemson, S.C. (AP Photo/Jacob Kupferman)

ACC fines, reprimands Syracuse for feigning injuries in 34-21 upset win over Clemson

September 22, 2025

The Atlantic Coast Conference has fined Syracuse $25,000 and issued a public reprimand for feigning injuries during Saturday’s 34-21 win over Clemson. The ACC cited one incident with 9:25 left in the game, calling it unethical and against the spirit of the rules. The national coordinator of football officials agreed that the actions violated fair play. Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik noted Syracuse’s defensive injuries stopped play and disrupted the Tigers’ momentum. Coach Dabo Swinney advised against frustration over the situation. The fine will go to the Weaver-James-Corrigan-Swofford Postgraduate Scholarship account.

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LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier (18) looks to pass in the first half of an NCAA college football game against Clemson Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025, in Clemson, S.C. (AP Photo/Jacob Kupferman)

Garrett Nussmeier leads No. 9 LSU’s rally for 17-10 season-opening win at No. 4 Clemson

August 30, 2025

Garrett Nussmeier threw a go-ahead 8-yard touchdown pass to Trey’Dez Green in the fourth quarter, and No. 9 LSU rallied to beat fourth-ranked Clemson 17-10 Saturday night for its first season-opening win since 2019 when Joe Burrow led the Tigers to an undefeated season and a national championship. Nussmeier, who eclipsed 4,000 yards passing in his first year as a starter in 2024 after biding his time behind Jaylen Daniels, got better as game wore on throwing for 134 of his 230 yards in the second half while leading two touchdown drives. Caden Durham ran for 74 yards and a touchdown for LSU.

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Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders throws his first touchdown pass during the first half of a preseason NFL football game against the Carolina Panthers on Friday, Aug. 8, 2025, in Charlotte, N.C. (AP Photo/Rusty Jones)

Browns rookie Shedeur Sanders throws 2 TD passes in first half of NFL preseason debut vs Panthers

August 8, 2025

Shedeur Sanders has made an impressive NFL debut with the Cleveland Browns. On Friday night, he completed 14 of 23 passes for 138 yards and two touchdowns in a 30-10 win over the Carolina Panthers. His father, Deion Sanders, celebrated his performance on social media. Sanders expressed mixed feelings, calling it a dream come true but admitting he could have played better. The Browns have been dealing with injuries at quarterback, giving Sanders the opportunity to start. Despite some early challenges, he showed promise and even caught the attention of NBA star LeBron James. Sanders was initially projected to go higher in the draft but fell to the fifth round.

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Carolina Panthers cornerback Jaycee Horn watches during an NFL football dual training camp with the Cleveland Browns Wednesday, Aug. 6, 2025, in Charlotte, N.C. Horn was involved in a car accident on his was to camp. (AP Photo/Chris Carlson)

Panthers CB Jaycee Horn not seriously injured in car accident, is day to day with thumb injury

August 6, 2025

Carolina Panthers cornerback Jaycee Horn escaped serious injury after a car accident on Wednesday morning on the way to the team’s stadium. He injured his left thumb and missed a joint practice with the Cleveland Browns. Panthers coach Dave Canales says Horn will be evaluated daily. Horn will not play in Friday night’s preseason game against the Browns, but the team hopes he can play against Houston on August 16. Horn was alone in his car when the accident happened near the stadium. He was evaluated by team medical personnel and later seen joking with teammates on the sideline.

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FILE - Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders (12) scrambles during practice at the team's NFL football training camp, Saturday, July 26, 2025, in Berea, Ohio. (AP Photo/David Richard, File)

Rookie QB Shedeur Sanders to start in Browns preseason opener against the Panthers

August 6, 2025

Rookie Shedeur Sanders will start for the Cleveland Browns in their preseason opener against the Carolina Panthers on Friday night with the recently signed Tyler Huntley also expected to play. The Browns confirmed the news during a joint practice with the Panthers. Veteran Joe Flacco is healthy but will not play. Kenny Pickett and Dillon Gabriel will not play either because of injuries. Sanders was drafted in the fifth round. Despite being fourth on the depth chart, injuries to other Browns QBs have contributed to this opportunity.

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American Conference commissioner Tim Pernetti speaks at Media Days on Friday, July 25, 2025 in Charlotte, N.C. (AP Photo/Steve Reed)

American Conference deserves fair shot at College Football Playoff, commissioner says

July 25, 2025

Commissioner Tim Pernetti wants the newly rebranded American Conference included in the College Football Playoff conversation. Pernetti says his conference has teams capable of competing in the 12-team playoff for the national championship. H emphasized on Friday a merit-based system where the five highest-ranked conference champions receive automatic bids, regardless of conference. Last season, the American Conference had competitive teams but none made the playoffs. Pernetti argues against predetermined playoff spots for larger conferences, advocating for opportunities to be earned on the field. He warns against repeating past mistakes of favoritism and confusion that he said came with the Bowl Championship Series.

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American Conference commissioner Tim Pernetti speaks at Media Days on Friday, July 25, 2025 in Charlotte, N.C. (AP Photo/Steve Reed)

Pernetti on Memphis’ attempted move to Big 12: Your job is to do what’s best for the school

July 25, 2025

American Conference commissioner Tim Pernetti acknowledged Memphis’ ambition to join the Big 12, despite their bid being rejected. Yahoo Sports reports that the Big 12 board turned down Memphis’ application, meaning the school remains in the American Conference for now. Pernetti, speaking at the conference’s media days on Friday, said he has been aware of Memphis’ intentions since last August. He admires their ambition and credits them for their transparency. Memphis released a statement expressing disappointment but emphasized their strength and commitment to national prominence. Pernetti says the conference is open to evolving and adding new schools if it is a good fit.

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Miami quarterback Carson Beck, who transferred from Georgia, speaks at the Atlantic Coast Conference NCAA college football media days, Tuesday, July 22, 2025, in Charlotte, N.C. (AP Photo/Steve Reed)

Several ACC teams have turned to the transfer portal for high-level QBs in 2025

July 23, 2025

Eight of the top 25 quarterbacks in the transfer portal have landed in the Atlantic Coast Conference. Carson Beck moved from Georgia to Miami, seeing himself as a fit for the Hurricanes’ offensive scheme. Miller Moss left USC for Louisville to work with coach Jeff Brohm. Tommy Castellanos transferred from Boston College to Florida State, aiming to upend Alabama in the season opener. Each quarterback has unique reasons for transferring, including NIL money and aspirations of NFL success. The ACC also boasts talented returning quarterbacks like Clemson’s Cade Klubnik. The conference is shaping up to be highly competitive this season.

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FILE - Stanford's new coach Frank Reich listens as he's introduced during NCAA college football news conference, Tuesday, April 1, 2025, in Stanford, Calif. (AP Photo/Emily Steinberger, File)

Frank Reich excited about Bryce Young’s resurgence after ‘terrible’ start to QB’s NFL career

July 23, 2025

Former Panthers coach Frank Reich recently reflected on his time coaching quarterback Bryce Young. Speaking at ACC media days on Tuesday, Reich expressed happiness for Young’s late-season resurgence in 2024. Young, who struggled early in his career, was benched in his second season but made a strong comeback after an injury to veteran Andy Dalton. He ended the season with impressive stats, giving the Panthers hope for the future. Reich, fired after 11 games in 2023, said starting Young as a rookie was the right decision. Young now enters his third season as Carolina’s clear starting quarterback.

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SMU coach Rhett Lashlee speaks at the Atlantic Coast Conference NCAA college football media days, Tuesday, July 22, 2025, in Charlotte, N.C. (AP Photo/Steve Reed)

SMU’s successful bid to join ACC leads to playoff berth, record donations — and more interest

July 22, 2025

SMU made a bold bid to join the Atlantic Coast Conference, and that bet is paying off. The Mustangs gave up nine years of media revenue to leave the American Conference, where they won the 2023 championship. They went undefeated in conference play in the regular season, reaching the championship game and earning a spot in the College Football Playoff. The move has energized the program, boosting donations, ticket sales, and applications. Coach Rhett Lashlee says the success validates the school’s efforts. With strong recruiting in Texas and rising momentum, SMU is aiming even higher this season.

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Fluminense fans celebrate after the Club World Cup round of 16 soccer match between Inter Milan and Fluminense in Charlotte, N.C., Monday, June 30, 2025. (AP Photo/Nell Redmond)

Some fans question US readiness for 2026 World Cup after Club World Cup experience

July 3, 2025

Soccer fans have mixed feelings about the United States hosting the World Cup next year. Some worry about stadium readiness and security. Fans also cite concerns about extreme heat, game scheduling, and the lack of enthusiasm in some places during the ongoing Club World Cup. Others, however, praise improvements in security and organization, saying the U.S. has the infrastructure to host successfully. The Club World Cup is seen as a test run for the World Cup, allowing organizers to address challenges before welcoming even more global soccer fans next year.

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FILE - Milwaukee Bucks guard Pat Connaughton controls the ball during the first half of an NBA basketball game against the Washington Wizards, Feb. 21, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass, file)

Hornets acquire Connaughton, 2 second-round picks from Bucks for Micic, AP source says

July 1, 2025

The Charlotte Hornets have acquired guard Pat Connaughton and two second-round draft picks from the Milwaukee Bucks in exchange for point guard Vasa Micic. That’s according to a person familiar with the situation who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Tuesday because trades can’t be finalized by the league until July 6. The Hornets will get Milwaukee’s second-round picks in 2031 and 2032 as part of the deal.

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Livvy Dunne, middle, sister Julz Dunne, left, and Sam Green pose at an AtheteCon event on Thursday in Charlotte, N.C. designed to help college athletes, promote their name, image and likeness brand. (AP Photo/Steve Reed)

What’s next for influencer Livvy Dunne after college gymnastics career? ‘Everything,’ she says

June 5, 2025

With her college gymnastics days behind her, influencer and Sports Illustrated swimsuit model Livvy Dunne is moving on with life — but that doesn’t mean she’ll be far from the public eye. Dunne has more than 13 million followers on social media, and she created a multimillion-dollar personal brand while competing as a gymnast at LSU. Now she’s trying to help other female athletes do the same, helping to educate them about name, image and likeness deals and personal branding. Asked about her future, Dunne told The Associated Press, “What’s next? Everything.”

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NASCAR Cup Series driver Austin Cindric celebrates after winning a NASCAR Cup Series auto race at Talladega Superspeedway, Sunday, April 27, 2025, in Talladega, Ala. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)

Austin Cindric not concerned about future with Team Penske after his father was fired this week

May 24, 2025

Austin Cindric is not worried about his future with Team Penske after his father Tim Cindric was fired by team owner Roger Penske as the team’s IndyCar president earlier this week following a cheating scandal at the Indianapolis 500. Cindric drives the No. 2 Ford Mustang for Penske in the NASCAR Cup Series and is currently 12th in the points standings with three top-10 finishes in 12 races, including a win at Talladega. Given the family ties with Team Penske it raised some speculation about how it might impact him. When asked if he was given assurances from Penske, Cindric said he didn’t think “it was even in question.”

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Crew members of Chase Briscoe push his car to get it started after a pit stop during a NASCAR Cup Series auto race at Talladega Superspeedway, Sunday, April 27, 2025, in Talladega, Ala. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)

Kyle Larson to start on front row at Coca-Cola 600 alongside pole sitter Chase Briscoe

May 24, 2025

Chase Briscoe won the pole for the Coca-Cola 600 and will start on the front row for NASCAR’s longest and most grueling race alongside Kyle Larson. Briscoe, driving the No. 19 Toyota for Joe Gibbs Racing, turned a lap of 182.852 mph on the 1 1/2-mile oval at Charlotte Motor Speedway to edge out Larson, who plans to arrive at the track about an hour before the race Sunday night after completing the Indianapolis 500. William Byron starts third, followed by Chris Buescher and AJ Allmendinger. Rounding out the top 10 will be John Nemechek, Ty Gibbs, Noah Gragson, Alex Bowman and defending race champion Christopher Bell.

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Kyle Larson watches as he waits for is turn during qualification for the Indianapolis 500 auto race at Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Indianapolis, Saturday, May 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)

Doubling down: Kyle Larson preps to run Indianapolis 500 and Coca-Cola 600 after last year’s washout

May 24, 2025

Kyle Larson is doubling down on “The Double.” Larson is set to run both the Indianapolis 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 on Sunday, a task he set out to do last year but never had a chance to complete after weather disrupted the NASCAR star’s plans. A year ago rain delayed the start of the Indianapolis 500. That put Larson, who finished 18th after a pit lane speeding penalty, well behind schedule. He arrived in Concord 249 laps into the 400-lap Cup Series Race and was set to take over for replacement driver Justin Allgaier and finish the race. But lightning and heavy rains forced NASCAR to call the race early.

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FILE - Kyle Busch (54) celebrates after winning the NASCAR Xfinity Series auto race at Charlotte Motor Speedway, May 25, 2020, in Concord, N.C. (AP Photo/Gerry Broome, file)

2-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Busch to return to Richard Childress Racing for 2026 season

May 24, 2025

Richard Childress Racing has picked up the option on Kyle Busch’s contract, meaning the two-time Cup Series champion will be back with the team for the 2026 season. The 40-year-old Busch is in the midst of the longest slump of his career, with his losing streak closing in on 70 Cup Series races. Busch has won 63 Cup Series races since joining the circuit in 2003, but has not taken the checkered flag since June 4, 2023. Still, Busch believes RCR will get things turned around soon. Busch has one top-5 finish this season and is 17th in the standings.

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