Daily News 19

Category: Around the World

International news, world events, society, travel, and stories beyond the other editorial categories.

  • Review: Canyon Unveils New Grail Gravel Bike

    Review: Canyon Unveils New Grail Gravel Bike

    Canyon Grail Third Generation Review: Aeroad-Inspired Gravel Race Bike Balances Speed and Versatility

    Canyon has officially unveiled the third-generation Grail, its race-oriented gravel bike that now matches rivals with 57 mm tyre clearance and Aeroad-inspired aero tube shaping. The German direct-to-consumer brand positions the new Grail as the “new era of the all-terrain race gravel bike,” yet it remains conservative in its attempt to satisfy both dedicated racers and recreational riders.

    Key Updates at a Glance

    • Tyre clearance: Increased to 57 mm (up from 45 mm on the previous generation).
    • Aero shaping: Truncated-airfoil tube profiles borrowed from the Aeroad and Endurace lines.
    • Integrated cockpit: New proprietary handlebar and seat post with fully internal cable routing.
    • Geometry: Longer, more stable numbers optimised for “core sizes” (M/L).
    • Size-specific components: Crank arm lengths and handlebar widths scaled per frame size across the range.
    • Storage: Integrated downtube storage compartment.

    Pricing and Specifications

    The Grail lineup starts at €2,499 / £2,499 / US$3,499 for the entry-level CF SL model. The test unit, a CF SLX 8 AXS build equipped with SRAM Force AXS XPLR 1x groupset, DT Swiss GRC1400 wheels and 45 mm Schwalbe tyres, retails for €4,999 / £4,799 / US$5,999 and weighed 8.6 kg in size XS (without bottle cages). The flagship CFR models, which offer free component customisation at purchase, start at €6,500 / £6,200 and are initially available only in EMEA markets.

    Design Language Borrowed From the Aeroad

    Visually, the new Grail is a dramatic departure from its 2023 predecessor. Dropped seat stays, a truncated-airfoil down tube and a seamless front-end integration mirror the design cues introduced on Canyon’s flagship Aeroad road race bike and later refined on the updated Endurace endurance road range. The result is a gravel bike that looks unmistakably fast, even while standing still.

    “the new era of the all-terrain race gravel bike.”

    That phrase comes directly from Canyon’s own marketing language, and the brand backs it up with wind-tunnel data claiming measurable drag reduction over the previous Grail at typical gravel yaw angles.

    Ride Impressions: Confidence Inspiring, But Not Radical

    On the road and trail, the Grail CF SLX 8 delivers an effortless ride feel. The frame encourages speed on climbs, descents and flat sections alike, with the added tyre clearance allowing riders to run higher-volume rubber for rougher terrain without frame interference. Size-specific crank arms and handlebar widths improve fit for a broader range of riders straight out of the box.

    However, the geometry is optimised for the middle of the size run. Riders at the extreme ends (XS and XL) may not experience the intended handling balance. The proprietary seat post and one-piece cockpit limit post-purchase fit adjustments, and the seat post bolt placement is awkward to access during trailside tweaks.

    Who Is This Bike For?

    Canyon explicitly targets both competitive gravel racers and everyday adventurers. The 57 mm clearance and aero profile satisfy the racer’s checklist, while the integrated storage, stable geometry and compliant ride quality cater to long-distance recreational riders. Whether the Grail can truly excel for both demographics without compromise remains the central question—and the answer will likely depend on individual fit and tyre choice.

    Verdict

    The third-generation Canyon Grail closes the spec gap with rivals, adds meaningful aero efficiency and retains the brand’s value proposition. It is a polished, fast and versatile gravel race machine—provided your body dimensions align with its core-size geometry and you can accept the proprietary cockpit’s fit limitations.

  • New Canyon Grail Fits 57mm Tyres with Matched Aerodynamics as Pro and Amateur Needs Converge

    New Canyon Grail Fits 57mm Tyres with Matched Aerodynamics as Pro and Amateur Needs Converge

    Canyon Unveils Third-Generation Grail Gravel Race Bike with 57mm Tyre Clearance

    Canyon has launched the third generation of its Grail gravel race bike, significantly expanding tyre clearance from 42mm to 57mm to accommodate tyres up to 2.25 inches. The new model features reworked aerodynamics optimised for typical gravel racing speeds of 35km/h and is available in three carbon frame grades: CFR, CF SLX, and CF. The flagship CFR AXS build carries a claimed weight of 7.9kg and a price of £7,600 / $8,999 / €8,000.

    Pro and Amateur Requirements Align

    The new Grail’s aero profile is tuned for 35km/h ride speeds. Canyon highlights the evolving demands of elite gravel racing by comparing Ted King’s 2018 Unbound 200 winning time of 10 hours 44 minutes on a Cannondale SuperX cyclocross bike with 38mm tyres to Mads Würtz Schmidt’s 2026 victory in 9 hours 14 minutes aboard a Specialized Crux 5 fitted with 50mm tyres, despite muddy conditions. Canyon asserts that the performance gap between professional and amateur needs is smaller in gravel than on the road.

    Development of the new Grail was heavily influenced by professional gravel racer Rosa Klöser, who made clearance above 50mm a prerequisite for joining Canyon’s roster. This requirement drove a 1x-only drivetrain design and a solid driveside chainstay to achieve the necessary clearance—a first for Canyon. The frame employs a PF86 bottom bracket standard, chosen for its contribution to tyre clearance and stiffness, with Canyon noting minimal issues with the standard on previous models. The brand also argues that bonding BSA threads into carbon frames is not a universal solution for bottom bracket reliability.

    Race-Pace Aerodynamics

    Tyre clearance increases to 57mm front and rear. Canyon states that the Grail’s aerodynamics have been tuned specifically for a gravel race pace of 35km/h, using a pedalling mannequin to simulate riding across yaw angles up to +/- 20 degrees. Wind tunnel testing in the GST facility compared the new Grail against the Factor Ostro Gravel, Cervélo Aspero-5, and Rose Backroad FF, all equipped with identical 50mm-deep wheels and 45mm tyres. The Grail emerged as the fastest. Against the second-generation Grail with 40mm tyres, the new bike is up to 5 watts faster, and it retains an advantage even when fitted with 55mm tyres.

    All three carbon grades return: CFR, CF SLX, and CF. Claimed raw frame weights for a size M are 989g (CFR), 1,095g (CF SLX), and 1,128g (CF). Canyon acknowledges these are heavier than the previous generation but maintains the added tyre clearance and aero profiles deliver faster real-world performance. Every specification ships with 45mm Schwalbe G-One tyres as a baseline, with room to go wider. The CFR and CF SLX frames include in-frame storage, while the CF SLX and CF models are compatible with Canyon’s Defend mudguards.

    New Pace Cockpit Variant: Control Drops

    Geometry changes are minor, with the wheelbase extended by 10mm to accommodate wider tyres while preserving handling dynamics. Mid-sized frames retain a 71.5-degree head tube angle and 69mm trail, which Canyon says allows sponsored athletes to push harder through technical sections when paired with larger tyres. Stack is lowered by 15mm, reach remains unchanged, and shorter stems are fitted. No suspension fork option is offered, as Canyon deems it unnecessary with the increased tyre volume.

    The CFR and CF SLX frames feature Canyon’s Pace variable-width, adjustable-height cockpit with a new drop shape called Control Drops. These offer 17 degrees of flare and widths of 370mm, 395mm, and 420mm at the drops. Control Drops join the existing Classic, Race, and Compact drop shapes compatible with the Pace system, each altering effective reach by 10mm. The Gear Groove channel remains for mounting bar extensions, lights, or a computer.

    Canyon has also adapted its VCLS Aero seatpost—previously seen on the Endurace CFR—for the new Grail, claiming a 25% increase in compliance over a rigid post. The Race cockpit from the Endurace CFR is also cross-compatible for riders seeking a more aggressive setup.

    New Lightweight Packs from Cyclite

    To keep the race-ready weight low, Canyon partnered with Cyclite to develop low-weight luggage. The new Midloader frame bag weighs approximately 100g, a 200g reduction over the previous generation’s 300g bag. The design prioritises zero aerodynamic penalty and rapid attachment via a push-to-release mechanism, replacing the former Fidlock system, enabling quick swaps at feed stations. Internal organisers are included. Bag sizes are matched to each frame size, and a coordinating top tube bag is available for additional capacity.

    New Carbon Gravel Wheels: Canyon GR 50 CF

    Canyon introduces the GR 50 CF carbon gravel wheelset to complement the new bike. The pair claims a weight of 1,675g and features a 27mm internal / 38.5mm external width hookless rim. They run on DT Swiss 350 hubs with Aerocomp II spokes and ship with an HG11 freehub installed, plus an XDR freehub and valves in the box; Micro Spline compatibility is also supported. The wheels come standard on the CF 7 AXS and CF SLX 7 Di2 builds and are available aftermarket for €999. Canyon offers a 10% discount on the new wheels to owners of Canyon gravel bikes with alloy wheels purchased within the last three years.

    New Tyre Pressure Calculator App

    Recognising that lower tyre pressures amplify the effect of pressure variations, Canyon has collaborated with Pirelli to create a customisable pressure calculator. The tool aims to help riders achieve the optimal 20% tyre sag—difficult to gauge by feel alone—and avoid the common pitfall of over-inflation, thereby maximising bike performance.

    New Canyon Grail Specifications and Pricing

    The Grail will be offered in seven sizes (2XS to 2XL), fitting riders from 158cm to 204cm. Six build specifications are available, detailed below. Buyers in EMEA regions can use the MyCanyon platform to select from four additional colourways and customise wheels (including Zipp 303 XPLR SW and Scope Artech 4G options), cockpit model and dimensions, saddle, crank length, and chainring size (including aero variants). Canyon plans to expand MyCanyon customisation to other geographies in the future.

    Grail CFR AXS

    Component Specification
    Groupset SRAM Red XPLR AXS with dual-sided power meter
    Wheelset DT Swiss GRC 1100 50mm
    Tyres Schwalbe G-One RS Pro 45mm
    Cockpit Canyon Pace bar with Control drops
    Saddle Fizik Vento Argo X1
    Claimed Weight 7.9kg
    Price £7,600 / $8,999 / €8,000

    Grail CFR Di2

    Component Specification
    Groupset Shimano GRX RX825 Di2 with 4iiii single-sided power meter
    Wheelset DT Swiss GRC 1100 50mm
    Tyres Schwalbe G-One RS Pro 45mm
    Cockpit Canyon Pace bar with Control drops
    Saddle Fizik Vento Argo X1
    Claimed Weight 8.4kg
    Price £6,200 / $7,999 / €6,500

    Grail CF SLX 8 AXS

    Component Specification
    Groupset SRAM Force XPLR AXS with single-sided power meter
    Wheelset DT Swiss GRC 1400 50mm
    Tyres Schwalbe G-One R 45mm
    Cockpit Canyon Pace bar with Control drops
    Saddle Fizik Vento Argo X3
    Claimed Weight 8.9kg
    Price £4,799 / $5,999 / €4,999

    Grail CF SLX 7 Di2

    Component Specification
    Groupset Shimano GRX RX715 Di2
    Wheelset Canyon GR 50 CF 50mm
    Tyres Schwalbe G-One R 45mm
    Cockpit Canyon Pace bar with Control drops
    Saddle Fizik Vento Argo X3
    Claimed Weight 9.5kg
    Price £3,899 / $4,999 / €3,999

    Grail CF 7 AXS

    Component Specification
    Groupset SRAM Rival XPLR AXS
    Wheelset Canyon GR 50 CF 50mm
    Tyres Schwalbe G-One R 45mm
    Cockpit Canyon CP0039
    Saddle Selle Royal SRX
    Claimed Weight 9.1kg
    Price £3,499 / $4,299 / €3,499

    Grail CF 7

    Component Specification
    Groupset Shimano GRX RX610 mechanical
    Wheelset Newmen Advanced G.34 28” CL
    Tyres Schwalbe G-One R 45mm
    Cockpit Canyon CP0039
    Saddle Selle Royal SRX
    Claimed Weight 9.2kg
    Price £2,499 / $3,499 / €2,499
  • Rhade Municipal Council Discusses Construction Fast-Track

    Rhade Municipal Council Discusses Construction Fast-Track

    Rhade Municipal Council to Discuss Building-Turbo Deviation Application for Selsinger Straße Housing Project

    The upcoming public session of the Rhade municipal council will center on a building-turbo deviation application for a residential construction project on Selsinger Straße in Rhade.

    The council is scheduled to revisit the matter on Monday, September 28, at 7:00 p.m. in the village community hall in Rhadereistedt. No other agenda items are planned for the evening.

  • NFL Week 2 Picks: Why I’m Betting Against the Teams Everyone Expects to Bounce Back

    NFL Week 2 Picks: Why I’m Betting Against the Teams Everyone Expects to Bounce Back

    NFL Week 2 Against the Spread Picks: Best Bets, Underdogs, and Overreactions

    We are one week into the NFL season, and the hot takes are already flying. Despite a coach’s preseason declaration that Justin Herbert might become the greatest quarterback ever, the Los Angeles Chargers collapsed against the Arizona Cardinals. The media is overreacting, predicting immediate turnarounds for teams that looked bad. This preview avoids the knee-jerk narratives and focuses on the numbers, matchups, and situational spots that actually matter against the spread.

    Week 1 Performance Recap

    Last week’s record: 3-2 on best bets, 5-10-1 overall against the spread. Cold feet on the New York Giants and Cardinals cost us, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers would have covered easily if Baker Mayfield hadn’t fumbled three times. Expect better discipline this week.

    Thursday Night Football

    Detroit Lions at Buffalo Bills (-4.5) | 8:15 p.m. ET, Amazon Prime

    In hindsight, backing Josh Allen against a team that embarrassed him last year should have been the easy Week 1 play. Allen was aggressive and picked apart the Houston Texans. Now he opens the Bills’ new stadium against a Lions defense missing key pieces in the secondary and on the offensive line.

    However, if C.J. Stroud can keep it close against Buffalo, Jared Goff can too. Detroit may have been looking past the New Orleans Saints toward this prime-time showdown. The Lions lost 48-42 to Allen’s Bills in 2024.

    The pick: Lions +4.5

    Sunday Early Slate

    Philadelphia Eagles (-7.5) at Tennessee Titans | 1 p.m. ET, Fox

    This shapes up as the biggest game of the Robert Saleh era in Tennessee. The Titans came out flat in his debut, and an ugly home loss to Philadelphia — with road games against the Giants and Baltimore Ravens looming — would bury their season. Cam Ward is not walking through that door to save Saleh; his 9.2% sack rate since entering the league ranks fourth-highest among quarterbacks, despite facing a below-average blitz rate (24% vs. league average 26%).

    Conversely, the Eagles have a happy Jalen Hurts and travel exceptionally well under Nick Sirianni, winning at a league-best 70% rate on the road since his arrival.

    The pick: Eagles -7.5

    Cincinnati Bengals at Houston Texans (-2.5) | 1 p.m. ET, CBS

    The Texans defense is too talented not to rebound. Houston allowed 11 explosive plays (runs ≥12 yards, passes ≥16 yards) to Buffalo, and the 11.5 yards per pass attempt surrendered was the worst mark under DeMeco Ryans (since 2023). Add in Joe Burrow’s sore back, and the home side looks vulnerable.

    The pick: Texans -2.5

    Carolina Panthers (-2.5) at Atlanta Falcons | 1 p.m. ET, Fox

    This screams trap. Bryce Young set career highs in yards per completion (15.7) and first-down rate per passing attempt (46%) while throwing for 361 yards in a loss to Chicago. Meanwhile, the Falcons offense stalled with Cooper Rush against a lethargic Pittsburgh Steelers defense. Yet Carolina is not even laying a full field goal? The value is on the home underdog.

    The pick: Falcons +2.5

    Green Bay Packers (-3.5) at New York Jets | 1 p.m. ET, Fox

    The Jets defense looked legitimate against Tennessee, and that confidence should carry over. Prediction: New York records its first interception since Week 18 of the 2024 season. Green Bay went 2-6 against the Lions from 2021–24 when Aaron Glenn (now Jets head coach) was Detroit’s defensive coordinator, throwing nine interceptions — the most against any coordinator in that span. Expect a tight game decided by a field goal.

    The pick: Jets +3.5

    Cleveland Browns at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-7.5) | 1 p.m. ET, CBS

    The Baker Mayfield revenge narrative writes itself. Mayfield atones for last week’s fumbles against the franchise that drafted him first overall in 2018 and moved on. Cleveland hitched its wagon to the wrong quarterback; this is likely Deshaun Watson’s final start for the Browns. Their home opener arrives next week, and fans will boo — not primarily for off-field issues, but because his on-field play has been awful since he lost his confidence years ago.

    The pick: Buccaneers -7.5

    Minnesota Vikings at Chicago Bears (-5.5) | 1 p.m. ET, Fox

    Ben Johnson is dead serious about shattering offensive records. He has produced two 500-yard games since his hiring a year ago, matching the franchise total from the previous 25 years. Caleb Williams has ample weapons and has become a composed operator; he should handle Minnesota’s hyper-aggressive defense (78% blitz rate) far better than Jordan Love did in Green Bay’s collapse last week.

    The pick: Bears -5.5

    New Orleans Saints at Baltimore Ravens (-7.5) | 1 p.m. ET, CBS

    My Super Bowl and MVP tickets on Lamar Jackson have early life. Jackson was ruthlessly efficient under new offensive coordinator (and Ben Johnson disciple) Declan Doyle. Now they face a Saints run defense that bears no resemblance to last year’s sixth-ranked unit, surrendering 5 yards per carry against Detroit.

    The pick: Ravens -7.5

    Pittsburgh Steelers at New England Patriots (-5.5) | 1 p.m. ET, CBS

    A genuine toss-up. Pittsburgh’s offense lacks difference-makers, and Aaron Rodgers loves standing tall in the pocket almost as much as he enjoys his public health commentary. However, DK Metcalf should rebound from a rough debut featuring drops and penalties.

    New England cratered after A.J. Brown’s injury in the opener; Drake Maye threw all three interceptions after that point, and his passer rating plummeted from 79.5 to 60.7. Back the superior pass rush and the points.

    The pick: Steelers +5.5

    Sunday Afternoon Slate

    Las Vegas Raiders at Los Angeles Chargers (-6.5) | 4:05 p.m. ET, CBS

    The Justin Herbert debate arrives early. Having watched Herbert in practice repeatedly, I understand Jim Harbaugh’s faith. The throws are breathtaking. Perhaps new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel overcomplicated things in Week 1, and the Chargers defense has flown under the radar.

    Las Vegas (and its secondary) is a classic “get-well” opponent; their decisive win over the Dolphins means little long-term. If Los Angeles doesn’t win comfortably, the Herbert faithful can officially panic.

    The pick: Chargers -6.5

    Jacksonville Jaguars at Denver Broncos (-2.5) | 4:05 p.m. ET, CBS

    Trevor Lawrence commanded the offense last week — against Cleveland, admittedly — and Liam Coen has instantly established himself as an elite play-caller. They face a Broncos defense that missed 28 tackles against Kansas City on Monday night, yielding 247 yards after missed tackles — the most by any NFL defense since 2018, per Next Gen Stats.

    The pick: Jaguars +2.5

    Washington Commanders at Dallas Cowboys (-4.5) | 4:25 p.m. ET, Fox

    After an offseason of hype, Dallas’ defense was alarmingly porous Sunday night. The Giants converted 9 of 11 third downs (the only failure was a game-ending kneeldown), and the Cowboys linebackers looked lost. Improvement is mandatory, especially with Washington averaging only 8.8 yards to go on third down in their loss to Philadelphia. But the fix won’t be instant. Take the points.

    The pick: Commanders +4.5

    Seattle Seahawks (-3.5) at Arizona Cardinals | 4:25 p.m. ET, Fox

    The least surprising Week 1 takeaway: Seattle’s defense remains elite, even shorthanded. It must carry the load again against red-hot Arizona, with Drew Lock replacing injured Sam Darnold at quarterback.

    Jacoby Brissett — a richer man’s Drew Lock — kept the ball 15 minutes longer than the Chargers did last week and is receiving heavy public backing. Historically, that is when Brissett regresses, and against this defense, no one will blame him.

    The pick: Seahawks -3.5

    Miami Dolphins at San Francisco 49ers (-13.5) | 4:25 p.m. ET, Fox

    Here is an overreaction worth making: Miami goes 0-17. The dead cap space, roster holes, and brutal schedule were detailed last week; they also entered the season as the least-experienced team (608 career starts) in NFL history. San Francisco returns from a “road” win over the Rams in Australia, and even with jet lag and a letdown spot, the 49ers’ backups could likely handle this Dolphins team.

    The pick: 49ers -13.5

    Sunday Night Football

    Indianapolis Colts at Kansas City Chiefs (-6.5) | 8:20 p.m. ET, NBC

    The new-look Chiefs — 31 designed runs against Denver after averaging 21 over the previous seven years — face the old-look Colts. Tenth-year GM Chris Ballard and fourth-year coach Shane Steichen watched Indianapolis lose the trench battle in the opener, while savior Daniel Jones couldn’t locate open receivers.

    Indy’s response: strip the defensive green dot from safety Cam Bynum and give it to linebacker Akeem Davis-Gaither, who will presumably tell his teammates the Chiefs’ passing game is no longer dangerous. That adjustment screams cover.

    The pick: Colts +6.5

    Monday Night Football

    New York Giants at Los Angeles Rams (-6.5) | 8:15 p.m. ET, ABC/ESPN

    Jaxson Dart exploited poor Dallas linebacker and cornerback play last week, and he boasts a dynamic 1-2 punch with Malik Nabers and Isaiah Likely. That should keep New York competitive against a Rams defense missing Myles Garrett.

    The pick: Giants +6.5

    Week 2 Best Bets & Upset Special

    Best Bets (Spread Coverage)

    • Baltimore Ravens -7.5
    • Tampa Bay Buccaneers -7.5
    • Los Angeles Chargers -6.5
    • Houston Texans -2.5

    Dog of the Week: Detroit Lions +4.5

    Upset Special (Spread ≥ 3 Points)

    Pittsburgh Steelers +180 (Using 50-simoleon units; down 50 on the season.)

    TruMedia research courtesy of Jason Starrett.

  • Motagua Advances to Central American Cup Semifinals

    Motagua Advances to Central American Cup Semifinals

    SAN SALVADOR — The 2026 CONCACAF Central American Cup continued Wednesday as Alianza FC and FC Motagua played to a scoreless draw, with the Honduran side advancing 3-0 on aggregate in the second leg of their Quarterfinal series at Estadio Cuscatlán in San Salvador, El Salvador.

    Defensive Battle Ends Without Goals

    The match featured a tightly contested defensive duel between both sides, with neither team able to find the breakthrough. The second leg of the Quarterfinal series concluded in a 0-0 stalemate, preserving Motagua’s commanding lead from the first leg.

    Motagua Secures Semifinal Berth and Champions Cup Spot

    Capitalizing on their first-leg advantage, Motagua locked in a 3-0 aggregate victory that propels them into the Semifinals. The result also guarantees the club a place in the 2027 CONCACAF Champions Cup, marking a significant achievement for the Honduran outfit as they continue their regional campaign.

  • LSU Lists QB Sam Leavitt ‘Doubtful’ for Top-10 Showdown vs. Ole Miss

    LSU Lists QB Sam Leavitt ‘Doubtful’ for Top-10 Showdown vs. Ole Miss

    LSU QB Sam Leavitt Listed as Doubtful for Ole Miss Game With Upper Body Injury

    LSU quarterback Sam Leavitt has been listed as doubtful on the program’s first SEC availability report ahead of Saturday night’s conference opener at Ole Miss. The designation stems from an upper body injury that kept Leavitt from throwing during Wednesday’s practice, according to CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz.

    Leavitt’s Recent Performance and Injury History

    The injury news comes on the heels of Leavitt’s rebound performance against Louisiana Tech last weekend. Despite a three-interception first half, he finished with 366 total yards and four total touchdowns. LSU led by only a single possession at halftime after a turnover-filled opening two quarters in Tiger Stadium.

    Head coach Lane Kiffin addressed the quarterback’s ball security issues following the win:

    “Sam’s gotta do a better job taking care of the ball,” Kiffin said in the aftermath. “We made a lot of yards, and we were smooth through that at times, but obviously, the red zone is where you gotta finish drives. So maybe it was perfect for us that we needed something like that, ’cause it’s a game we play good on offense in games.”

    Notably, Kiffin made no mention of an injury to his starting quarterback during this week’s media availability ahead of the league opener.

    Through two games this season, Leavitt has thrown for 574 yards with two touchdowns and four interceptions, while adding 135 rushing yards and five scores on the ground. The quarterback has battled injuries throughout his career, missing seven total games over the last two seasons at Arizona State—one game in 2024 due to a rib injury and six games in 2025 with a foot injury.

    Backup Quarterback Options Behind Leavitt

    If Leavitt cannot play, LSU’s top backup appears to be Landen Clark, a transfer from Elon who was named the 2025 CAA Co-Offensive Rookie of the Year. Though listed as the No. 3 quarterback on the depth chart, Clark has been the first signal-caller off the bench in both games this season. Last year at Elon, he threw 18 passing touchdowns and rushed for 11 more.

    Also on the roster is Husan Longstreet, a USC transfer and former five-star prospect ranked as the No. 32 overall player and No. 4 quarterback in the 2025 class by 247Sports. As a freshman with the Trojans, Longstreet completed 13 of 15 passes for 103 yards and a touchdown.

    SEC Availability Report Requirements and Timeline

    The SEC’s mandatory availability reports are now in their third season. Schools must adhere to specific guidelines for three days leading up to kickoff in conference contests, with nightly updates beginning each Wednesday of game week. Final reports are due 90 minutes before kickoff, and schools face fines ranging from $25,000 to $100,000 for non-compliance, inaccurate reporting, or late submissions.

    Coaches must release their initial availability report by 8 p.m. ET on Wednesday and update it daily, with the final report due 90 minutes prior to kickoff. Pre-game player status designations include:

    • Available — Fully available (100% chance to play)
    • Probable — Likely to play barring setbacks (75%)
    • Questionable — Uncertain due to injury or condition (50%)
    • Doubtful — Unlikely to play due to significant concerns (25%)
    • Out — Will not participate (0%)

    On game days, designations shift to “available,” “game-time decision,” or “out.”

    Other LSU Players on the Availability Report

    Beyond Leavitt, LSU’s initial report lists several other players:

    • Out: Wide receiver Phillip Wright III, linebacker Jaiden Bracker, running back Raycine Guillory Jr.
    • Questionable: Linebackers TJ Dottery and Tylen Singleton
    • Probable: Four players, including Whit Weeks and Trey’Dez Green

    LSU’s next injury report update is due Thursday night at 8:10 p.m. ET.

  • Marlins Beat Diamondbacks 4-3 in Sep 16, 2026 Game Recap

    Marlins Beat Diamondbacks 4-3 in Sep 16, 2026 Game Recap

    Marlins Edge Diamondbacks 4-3 as Alcantara Notches First Career Save

    PHOENIX — Jakob Marsee delivered a two-run home run and Sandy Alcantara recorded his first career save as the Miami Marlins held off the Arizona Diamondbacks 4-3 Wednesday night at Chase Field.

    Alcantara Shines in Unfamiliar Relief Role

    With the Marlins (76-77) lingering on the fringe of the National League playoff race, manager Clayton McCullough turned to his ace starter for the ninth inning — just two days after Alcantara threw 101 pitches in a no-decision against the same Diamondbacks lineup. Alcantara, who leads the majors with 206 innings pitched this season, induced two deep flyouts before walking Lars Nootbaar. Pinch-runner Jordan Lawlar attempted to steal second but was thrown out by catcher Joe Mack to end the game.

    The save marked Alcantara’s first relief appearance since his rookie season with St. Louis in 2017. The right-hander has made 201 big league starts in his career.

    Playoff Implications for Arizona

    The loss dropped the Diamondbacks (80-73) 3 1/2 games behind San Diego for the final NL wild-card spot with nine games remaining.

    Marsee Powers Miami Offense

    Marsee connected for his 11th homer of the season in the third inning against Merrill Kelly (9-14) with Javier Sanoja aboard. The outfielder also doubled to spark a two-run second inning. Miami eventually loaded the bases, and Heriberto Hernández drove in a run with an infield single. Another run scored on a throwing error by third baseman Nolan Arenado.

    Hernández finished with four of Miami’s 10 hits.

    Diamondbacks Power Surge Not Enough

    Arizona got home runs from Pavin Smith, Gabriel Moreno and Arenado. Moreno collected three hits to raise his batting average to .307; the Phillies’ Luis Arraez leads the National League at .316.

    Kelly Reaches Milestone in Tough Outing

    Kelly, making his 200th major league start, lasted 4 2/3 innings. He allowed seven hits and four runs (three earned) with two walks and nine strikeouts.

    Nelson Returns from Injured List

    Ryne Nelson, just activated from the 60-day injured list, pitched 1 1/3 scoreless innings in his first appearance since June 15. He had been sidelined with a strained right elbow.

    Marlins Bullpen Bridges the Gap

    Marlins starter Ryan Gusto also failed to escape the fifth inning, allowing eight hits and two runs. Cade Gibson (5-1) recorded five outs for the win.

    Upcoming Schedule

    Marlins: Following a day off, RHP Tyler Phillips (5-6, 3.55 ERA) starts Friday in San Diego.

    Diamondbacks: Begin a three-game series Friday against the New York Yankees at Chase Field.

  • Missing Hiker Found Dead in National Park

    Missing Hiker Found Dead in National Park

    PORT ANGELES — A 26-year-old hiker reported missing earlier this month in Olympic National Park was found dead Sunday, according to park officials.

    Missing Backpacker Located on Mount Appleton

    Neil Gehring was due to return to Madison Falls on September 1 after an overnight backpacking trip. He was reported overdue at 6:30 a.m. on September 2. His body was discovered Sunday evening on the northwest slope of Mount Appleton, the park confirmed in a news release.

    Searchers located Gehring after receiving and analyzing additional cellphone location data, the release stated.

    Gehring’s body was transferred to the Clallam County Coroner’s Office Sunday night.

    Multi-Agency Search Effort

    Gehring left the Madison Falls Trailhead on August 31, planning a cross-country traverse from Boulder Lake to Appleton Pass. When he failed to return, the Clallam County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue team responded to a State Emergency Operations Center request for assistance sent to all search and rescue organizations, Chief Criminal Deputy Amy Bundy said.

    Clallam County Search and Rescue participated in the search from September 4 through September 7 with various volunteers. The operation deployed helicopters, drones, and K9 units, Bundy confirmed.

    Olympic National Park is grateful for all the dedicated search and rescue teams that volunteered to assist with this effort, the statement said.

    The names of other agencies that assisted in the search have not been released.

  • Matthew Lillard Regrets ‘Scream 7’ Role After Melissa Barrera Firing

    Matthew Lillard Regrets ‘Scream 7’ Role After Melissa Barrera Firing

    Matthew Lillard has expressed deep regret over his decision to return for Scream 7 following the firing of co-star Melissa Barrera, who was removed from the franchise after social media posts criticizing Israel during the war in Gaza. Lillard, who originated the role of Stu Macher in Wes Craven’s 1996 classic Scream, reprised the character for the seventh installment, which opened in February and became the highest-grossing entry in the series with $214 million worldwide.

    Lillard Addresses Political Activism at Anniversary Screening

    During a recent 30th-anniversary screening of the original Scream, a fan asked Lillard about the difficulty of speaking out on political issues as an actor. The question followed headlines from last year when Lillard shouted “fuck ICE” at a Scream screening.

    “I don’t know how else to do it,” Lillard told the fan (via Entertainment Weekly). “For me, I have queer kids. If I’m not standing up for queer kids or kids in the trans community, then what the fuck am I doing? If I’m not standing up against ICE, then what the fuck am I doing?”

    Lillard acknowledged that activism isn’t always straightforward, citing the fallout surrounding Barrera as a prime example. “I don’t think it’s easy all the time,” he noted.

    Barrera’s Firing and Studio Statement

    Spyglass Media Group, the franchise’s producer, terminated Barrera after she had starred in two installments and was preparing to return for Scream 7. The company issued a statement declaring “zero tolerance for antisemitism or the incitement of hate in any form, including false references to genocide, ethnic cleansing, Holocaust distortion or anything that flagrantly crosses the line into hate speech.”

    Lillard Condemns the Decision, Calls Barrera “On the Right Side of History”

    Lillard did not hold back in his criticism of the studio’s move, directly linking Barrera’s dismissal to her commentary on the conflict in Gaza.

    “Melissa Barrera, who’s a beautiful actor, was fired for what she said after the whole Palestinian — what started happening in Israel,” Lillard said. “It’s really fucking bullshit and really hard, and she’s on the right side of history. When they start coming after your job, sometimes things are worth it… When that happened to Melissa, the whole world didn’t pipe up. But she was a year early on what the fuck’s going on. But the whole world should have popped up and said, ‘She’s right.’ And they didn’t. And that’s brutal.”

    “I Feel Ashamed”: Lillard Confronts His Own Complicity

    The actor then turned the lens on himself, admitting he failed to consider the implications of returning to the franchise without Barrera.

    “I went back to do ‘Scream,’ and I got called out. And I’m like, ‘Oh, fuck. That’s brutal,’” he continued. “I feel bad about that. I feel ashamed about that. Because in that moment I was so excited to go back, I didn’t really think about Melissa and that journey. I didn’t say no. I’m embarrassed; that’s the truth… I blew that. I’m on the wrong side of history for that. I still like being in the movie [but] it may not have been the best idea.”

    Backlash and Boycott Calls Followed “Scream 7” Release

    After war broke out in Gaza in 2023, Barrera used Instagram to share her views, accusing Israel of “genocide and ethnic cleansing.” The posts led directly to her firing, which in turn ignited a wave of backlash against Scream 7. Supporters of Barrera and Palestine organized protests outside the film’s Los Angeles premiere and called for a boycott of the horror sequel.

  • Presidents Cup Prep Takes Center Stage at Biltmore Championship in Asheville

    Presidents Cup Prep Takes Center Stage at Biltmore Championship in Asheville

    As the 2026 Presidents Cup approaches at Medinah Country Club in Chicago, the Biltmore Championship in Asheville, North Carolina, serves as the final competitive tune-up for seven players representing both teams. The event features a mix of established veterans and rising stars looking to sharpen their games before the biennial showdown.

    Koivun Embraces Competition as Best Preparation

    For the United States team, 21-year-old Jackson Koivun headlines the Asheville field alongside Jacob Bridgeman, the PGA Tour’s top-ranked putter. Koivun, the 2026 3M Open champion, has not competed in a Tour event since the FedEx St. Jude Championship, where he missed the cut in the FedExCup Playoffs opener. Despite the layoff, U.S. Captain Brandt Snedeker selected him outright, making Koivun the youngest Presidents Cup pick since Jordan Spieth in 2013.

    Koivun views the Biltmore Championship as essential for recapturing tournament rhythm.

    “It’s hard to replicate the feelings of playing a PGA Tour event. The best way to do that is to just get back into it and enjoy being in the competition and having to hit shots under pressure,”

    Koivun said Wednesday. His confidence in the match-play format stems from extensive experience. He played a pivotal role in the U.S. Walker Cup victory at Cypress Point Club in 2025 and captured two NCAA National Championships with Auburn University in 2024 and 2026.

    “Match play is one of my favorite formats. It’s so exciting playing on a team, playing for guys you can call your brothers for the rest of your life. And then you’re just going one-on-one against another person and may the best man win.”

    Koivun added during the Presidents Cup Selection Show.

    International Team Builds Underdog Narrative

    On the International side, Nico Echavarria arrives in Asheville after a breakthrough 2026 season. He opened the year with a playoff victory over Ryan Gerard at the Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches at PGA National, making the Presidents Cup a primary objective.

    “In the middle of the summer, I was putting a lot of pressure on myself with the Presidents Cup situation. But I liked it. I liked the challenge and feeling. I wanted to get myself on the team and qualify without getting picked. Unfortunately, I didn’t, but luckily I got picked.”

    Echavarria said earlier Wednesday. The Colombian has leaned on mental coaching to manage the emotions of representing his country on the world stage.

    “I’ve been pretty clear with him and talked about how nervous I’m going to be on that first tee or first session or that week overall. But he’s told me a lot of, ‘You’re fortunate to be feeling those nerves. You’re fortunate to be here.’ Use it to your advantage. Use it to sharpen the focus,”

    Echavarria shared in a pre-tournament interview.

    Echavarria also framed the International Team’s challenge as a historic opportunity. The International side has never won a Presidents Cup on American soil.

    “We’ve talked about in the team, it’s a little bit of David against Goliath. We’re the underdogs. But we want to make history. The international team has never won in the United States. So I think in a way, this group is kind of getting together as a family, is probably going to be our best chance.”

    Final Steps Before Medinah

    With the Biltmore Championship underway, both squads are using Asheville to settle nerves, build momentum, and fine-tune their games. The U.S. Team aims to extend its dominant home record, while the International Team seeks its first stateside victory. For players like Koivun and Echavarria, this week represents the bridge between individual preparation and the collective pressure of the Presidents Cup at Medinah.