## Spartans Extend Offer to Top-Ranked Center Ethan Taylor

**Five-Star Prospect Joins Elite List of Targets in the 2026 Class**

Michigan State basketball has made a strong move in the highly competitive 2026 recruiting class, extending an offer to standout center Ethan Taylor.  The 7-foot, 245-pound player from Link Academy in Branson, Missouri, is considered one of the top centers in the nation and holds a prestigious five-star ranking.

Taylor currently ranks as the No. 21 overall player and the No. 1 center in the 2026 class according to the 247Sports composite rankings. His impressive stature and skills have attracted attention from numerous power conference schools, with over 13 offers already received. 

Intriguingly, Taylor will be teaming up with current Spartan point guard commit Carlos Medlock Jr. for the upcoming prep basketball season. This shared experience could potentially strengthen Michigan State's case in securing Taylor's commitment.


> "Blessed to receive an offer from Michigan State University!! #AGTG" - Ethan Taylor (@3thantaylor24) July 30, 2025

The Spartans continue to build momentum in the recruiting landscape with this significant offer to a highly-touted prospect. 


## Spartans Extend Offer to Top-Ranked Center Ethan Taylor

**Five-Star Prospect Joins Elite List of Targets in the 2026 Class**

Michigan State basketball has 

Michigan State basketball offers 5-star center prospect in 2

Michigan State basketball offers 5-star center prospect in 2026 recruiting class

## Illini Defensive Back Earns Prestigious Preseason Recognition 

**Xavier Scott Named to Jim Thorpe Award Watch List**

Illinois football standout Xavier Scott has been named to the preseason watch list for the prestigious Jim Thorpe Award, recognizing the nation's top defensive back.  

Scott, a 5-foot-11, 190-pound cornerback, earned All-Big Ten first-team honors last season after starting all 13 games. He was also named a semifinalist for the Jim Thorpe Award in 2024, placing him among the top 15 defensive backs in college football.  Scott's impressive performance also garnered him Phil Steele All-America honorable mention recognition.

The watch list features 35 talented defensive backs from across the country, including six representatives from the Big Ten Conference.  


**Four Illini Among Prestigious Preseason Watch Lists**

Scott is one of four Illinois players to land a spot on a major preseason watch list for the 2025 season. Luke Altmyer (Maxwell Award), Gabe Jacas (Bronko Nagurski Trophy), and J.C. Davis (Outland Trophy) also earned recognition for their potential contributions to the upcoming season.  

**2025 Jim Thorpe Award Preseason Watch List:**

* S Xavion Alford, Arizona State
* S Ty Benefield, Boise State
* S KJ Bolden, Georgia
* S Bud Clark, TCU
* S Jeremiah Cooper, Iowa State
* S Caleb Downs, Ohio State
* CB Daylen Everette, Georgia
* CB David Fisher, North Texas
* CB Chance Gamble, Georgia Southern
* S Brylan Green, Liberty
* CB Tyler Hallum, Kennesaw State
* CB Al’zillion Hamilton, Fresno State
* CB Davison Igbinosun, Ohio State
* S Casey Larkin, Army
* CB A’Marion McCoy, Boise State
* CB Jermod McCoy, Tennessee
* CB Leonard Moore, Notre Dame
* S Terry Moore, Duke
* CB Malik Muhammad, Texas
* S Isaiah Nwokobia, SMU
* CB Tank Pearson, Ohio
* S Koi Perich, Minnesota
* CB D’Angelo Ponds, Indiana
* CB Chandler Rivers, Duke
* CB De’Shawn Rucker, South Florida
* CB Xavier Scott, Illinois
* S Tyree Skipper, Louisiana
* CB Avery Smith, Toledo
* S Michael Taaffe, Texas
* CB Avieon Terrell, Clemson
* S Dillon Thieneman, Oregon
* S Jacob Thomas, James Madison
* S DJ Walker, Ohio
* CB JeRico Washington Jr., Kennesaw State
* CB Jontez Williams, Iowa State





## Illini Defensive Back Earns Prestigious Preseason Recognition 

**Xavier Scott Named to Jim Thorpe Award Watch List**

Illinois football standout Xavier Scot

Illinois football defensive back named to 2025 Jim Thorpe Aw

Illinois football defensive back named to 2025 Jim Thorpe Award preseason watch list

## Michigan's "Unbelievable" Running Back Duo Ready to Roll

**A Dynamic Tandem Aims to Lead Wolverines Offense** 


Michigan fullback Max Bredeson has high praise for the Wolverines' new running back combination: Jordan Marshall and Justice Haynes. He calls them "unbelievable," but fans are still waiting to see their full potential on the field.

Marshall, despite injuries hindering his freshman year, stepped up admirably. He even surpassed 100 yards against Haynes' former Alabama team. Haynes, a five-star recruit, previously played as a change-of-pace back behind Jalen Milroe and established running backs Jase McClellan and Jam Miller at Alabama.  However, after transferring to Ann Arbor, he is expected to see a significantly larger role.


**Thunder and Lightning or Mirror Images?**

Michigan traditionally utilizes a "thunder and lightning" approach with its running backs, but how does this new duo compare? 

Bredeson offers insight into their contrasting personalities: "Very similar and very different at the same time," he describes. "Jordan's a little more outgoing, and Justice will kind of come in and be a little outgoing. They're like good friends. Two different energies, like different types of guys."

Surprisingly, Bredeson notes that their playing styles are remarkably alike: "If you were to line them up both, they look like the same running back," he says. Both possess explosive speed and a willingness to run between the tackles. 

This similarity could pose a challenge for opposing defenses, as the constant rotation of these bruising yet swift tailbacks will keep them fresh throughout the game. Bredeson explains: "Both can hit the home run, and both are plenty willing to get downhill. If I were to compare them, I'd say they're pretty similar. But two running backs that can wear you down over time. Once one gets worn down, here comes the next one."


**The Wait is Almost Over**

Fans got a brief glimpse of Marshall against Alabama and Haynes in the spring game. However, the full unveiling awaits on August 30th when Michigan opens its 2025 season against New Mexico.  


## Michigan's "Unbelievable" Running Back Duo Ready to Roll

**A Dynamic Tandem Aims to Lead Wolverines Offense** 


Michigan fullback Max Bredeson has high pra

Max Bredeson hails Michigan’s Jordan Marshall, Justice Hayne

Max Bredeson hails Michigan’s Jordan Marshall, Justice Haynes as dynamic RB duo for 2025

##  Ducks' QB Makes Bold Claim About Tight End

**"He's the best tight end in the country."** That's what Oregon Ducks quarterback Donte Moore boldly declared about his teammate, Kenyon Sadiq, at Oregon's 2025 media day.  While Sadiq has flown under the national radar in his first two seasons, overshadowed by players like Terrance Ferguson (the 46th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft) and Patrick Herbert, Moore isn't alone in his belief.

###  Sadiq: A Talent Waiting to Explode

Despite limited playing time, Sadiq has consistently flashed the four-star potential that earned him a spot in the 2023 class. Last year, he showcased his abilities in the Big Ten title game, hauling in two touchdowns – adding to his career totals of 29 catches and 332 receiving yards.  

**Standing at six-foot-three and weighing 245 pounds, Sadiq possesses a unique combination of size and speed that has teammates raving.** Several other Ducks players echoed Moore's sentiment during media day, praising Sadiq's athleticism and potential for a breakout season.

### A Breakout Campaign on the Horizon?

With the reins as the primary pass-catcher at tight end, Sadiq is poised to make a significant impact in 2025. While the national spotlight may not be on him yet, his teammates believe he's ready to take center stage.  It's a bold prediction, but one that could easily become reality for this talented rising star.




##  Ducks' QB Makes Bold Claim About Tight End

**"He's the best tight end in the country."** That's what Oregon Ducks quarterback Donte Moore boldly declared a

Oregon QB Dante Moore claims Kenyon Sadiq is best TE in the 

Oregon QB Dante Moore claims Kenyon Sadiq is best TE in the nation

## Eight Spartans Shine Bright:  Michigan State Players Featured on Prestigious Shrine Bowl Watch List

 **Potential All-Stars for the 2025 Season**


The prestigious East-West Shrine Bowl has unveiled its highly anticipated Preseason 1000 Watch List, and Michigan State University is well represented with eight players earning a spot. The annual event features top collegiate athletes vying for recognition and opportunities to advance their careers after the season concludes.

This year's  East-West Shrine Bowl, scheduled for January 27 in Frisco, Texas, could see multiple Spartans take the field. 


**The Spartan Standouts:**

* NiJhay Burt (cornerback)
* Aidan Chiles (quarterback)
* Matt Gulbin (guard)
* Omari Kelly (wide receiver)
* Nikai Martinez (safety)
* Conner Moore (tackle)
* Elijah Tau-Tolliver (running back)
* Jack Velling (tight end)


 **Looking Ahead to the Gridiron:**

Michigan State football kicks off its 2025 season on August 29th against Western Michigan, with a 7 p.m. ET kickoff at Spartan Stadium, broadcasted live on FS1.  




Follow us for ongoing coverage of Michigan State news and updates: 


**X (formerly Twitter): @The SpartansWire**

 **Facebook:** [Insert Facebook Page Link]





## Eight Spartans Shine Bright:  Michigan State Players Featured on Prestigious Shrine Bowl Watch List

 **Potential All-Stars for the 2025 Season**


The prest

Nearly 10 Spartans named to East-West Shrine Bowl 1000 prese

Nearly 10 Spartans named to East-West Shrine Bowl 1000 preseason watch list

## Softball Star Makes Big Move: Monticelli Heads to LSU

**Oklahoma Transfer Brings Veteran Experience to Baton Rouge**

Peytn Monticelli, former Oklahoma Sooner softball pitcher, announced her commitment to the LSU Tigers on Monday. 

Monticelli joined the Sooners following the 2023 season, contributing to their fourth consecutive championship win in 2024.  

During her two years in Norman, she appeared in 34 games, holding a 2-0 record. In 2024, Monticelli boasted an impressive 1.09 ERA across 19.1 innings. However, she faced challenges in 2025 with a 3.94 ERA over 21.1 innings and limited playing time during the NCAA Tournament.

The transfer brings valuable experience to LSU, filling the void left by pitcher Sydney Berzon who joined Oklahoma via the transfer portal.

**Oklahoma Bolsters Roster with Top Talent**

Meanwhile, Oklahoma is strengthening its own roster for the upcoming season.  They welcome Alyssa Parker, ranked as the No. 1 pitcher in the 2025 recruiting class, and Berkley Zache, the No. 5 pitcher overall. Returning players include senior Kierston Deal, sophomore Audrey Lowry, and redshirt freshman Sophia Bordi, who will be back with the team after taking time away during the latter part of the 2025 season.


Monticelli expressed her gratitude for her time at Oklahoma in a heartfelt social media statement:

"Thank you, Sooner Nation, for supporting me these past two years. This was not an easy decision to make. I have loved everything about being a Sooner and am so grateful for every single person I have met along my journey with this program. Norman will always be a special place to me." 


She also shared her excitement for joining LSU, tweeting: "Callin’ Baton Rouge  🐅💜💛 @LSUsoftball" 


## Softball Star Makes Big Move: Monticelli Heads to LSU

**Oklahoma Transfer Brings Veteran Experience to Baton Rouge**

Peytn Monticelli, former Oklahoma Soon

Oklahoma Sooners pitcher transferring to LSU Tigers

##  Auburn Alum Makes PGA Waves with Top-20 Finish at 3M Open

**Young Golfer Shows Potential, Surpassing Veteran Players in Impressive Performance**

Brendan Valdes, the former Auburn star golfer and a member of the 2024 National Championship team, made waves at last weekend's 3M Open at TPC Twin Cities. The 22-year-old achieved his best professional result to date with a remarkable 15-under par performance, securing a coveted top-20 finish.

**Rising Star Outshines PGA Veterans**

Valdes's performance surpassed several seasoned PGA Tour members, including Ricky Fowler, Max Homa, and even the tournament champion Jhonattan Vegas. This impressive feat marks his second consecutive cut made in just his two career PGA Tour events.

**Back Nine Blitz Ignites Tournament Run**

The Orlando, Florida native captured attention with a stunning back nine performance on Thursday during his first round. He birdied seven of his final nine holes, finishing bogey-free with an impressive 64. This remarkable start placed him atop the leaderboard after day one.  While Friday saw him struggle to maintain that momentum, ending even par, he still held firm at a respectable 7-under par heading into the weekend.

**Weekend Magic propels Valdes towards Top 10**

Valdes rediscovered his form over the weekend, carding a 3-under par 68 on "Moving Day" before closing out the tournament with a spectacular 5-under par 66 on Sunday. His 15-under par total placed him just three strokes shy of the top 10 and eight strokes behind the eventual champion Kurt Kitayama, who finished at an impressive 23-under par.


**Future Success Beckons for Former Auburn Star**

With his early success in the PGA Tour, Valdes has clearly demonstrated the potential to compete for tournament victories soon. He will likely have to wait until August when the FedEx Cup Playoffs begin to attempt a top-10 finish. 


##  Auburn Alum Makes PGA Waves with Top-20 Finish at 3M Open

**Young Golfer Shows Potential, Surpassing Veteran Players in Impressive Performance**

Brendan V

Auburn golfer Brendan Valdes earns top 20 finish at 3M Open

## Gators Quarterback DJ Lagway Dealing with New Injury

**Florida's starting quarterback sidelined just weeks before season opener.**

Florida starting quarterback DJ Lagway is currently sporting a walking boot due to a "new lower-body injury," according to Zach Goodall. While the injury is being described as "minor and not of long-term concern," it adds another layer of concern for the talented but injury-plagued quarterback.  

This latest setback follows a string of offseason injuries for Lagway, who sat out spring camp due to a throwing shoulder rehab and dealt with a "hernia-type" issue earlier this year. He also only took a ceremonial snap at the Orange and Blue Game while still recovering from his shoulder injury. 


The Gators kick off their season in just 33 days against Long Island, and while Lagway's absence wouldn't be crucial for that game, it raises questions about his availability going forward.  

"Staying healthy is priority No. 1 for Lagway this season," experts say. If he can remain on the field, Florida has a chance to boast one of the SEC's most exciting offenses. However, if Lagway goes down again, Harrison Bailey will step in, potentially leading to a less dynamic offensive performance.


**Follow along for the latest updates on Florida Gators news and insights.**

[Social Media Links] 


## Gators Quarterback DJ Lagway Dealing with New Injury

**Florida's starting quarterback sidelined just weeks before season opener.**

Florida starting quarter

DJ Lagway dealing with new injury, per reports

##  Notre Dame Women's Basketball Making Waves in Recruiting

**Elite Prospects Drawn to South Bend**

Despite a transitional season for the Notre Dame women's basketball team, the program is attracting top recruits. With FIBA Gold medalist Hanna Hidalgo leading the charge, Coach Niele Ivey is building a powerhouse roster for the future.  

### Ragone Anchors 2026 Class 

The Irish have already secured one commitment in the 2026 class: Georgia small forward Bella Ragone. Ranked No. 23 overall by 247Sports, Ragone brings immense talent to South Bend.

**Porter's Official Visit Sets Stage for Potential Decision**

Coach Ivey is targeting another top prospect, power forward Jayda Porter. The Missouri native sits at No. 31 in the national rankings and will be visiting Notre Dame on September 13th for an official visit. Porter has also scheduled visits to Oklahoma, Nebraska, and Wisconsin, making this a crucial decision point. As the sister of NBA player Michael Porter Jr. and daughter of head coach Michael Porter Sr., Porter brings athletic lineage and basketball experience to the table.

###  Looking Ahead: Burress Enters the Spotlight

The Irish have extended an early offer to 2028 New Jersey guard Giovanna Burress, daughter of former NFL star Plaxico Burress and sister of wide receiver Elijah. While it's still early, Notre Dame is competing with powerhouse programs like Ohio State, Georgia, and Michigan State for Burress' commitment.

**A Recruiting Strategy Inspired by Success**

Coach Ivey appears to be adopting a similar recruiting strategy as her counterpart in football, Marcus Freeman, by targeting players from elite athletic families.  With this approach showing promise in the football program, hopes are high that it will translate to success on the women's basketball court. 





##  Notre Dame Women's Basketball Making Waves in Recruiting

**Elite Prospects Drawn to South Bend**

Despite a transitional season for the Notre Dame women's 

A few Notre Dame women’s basketball notes on Jayda Porter an

A few Notre Dame women’s basketball notes on Jayda Porter and Giovanna Burress

## Fields Returns to Jets Practice After Minor Toe Injury

**Former Buckeye's Last Chance at Franchise Success Looks Secure**

A scare early in the week sent ripples through the New York Jets camp as former Ohio State quarterback, Justin Fields, was carted off the field with an apparent foot injury. 

The concern was understandable, especially given the Jets' all-in approach on Fields as their starter this season. This represents a crucial opportunity for Fields to solidify his place as a franchise quarterback after mixed results in Chicago and Pittsburgh.  However, fans can breathe easy as Fields returned to practice just one day later on Friday. 

The official diagnosis revealed a dislocated toe – a significant injury for most individuals, but not expected to hinder Fields' progress towards starting on opening day. While he didn't participate fully on Friday, Fields threw some passes on the side and is considered day-to-day in his return.


**Jets Defensive Coordinator Aaron Glenn offered his perspective:** 

"I don't think like that. The only thing I think about, the next guy that's up gotta get ready to operate. That's just what it is. That's how this league is."



The news of Fields' swift recovery is met with relief from fans and pundits alike.  Many Ohio State alumni eagerly anticipate seeing him thrive in New York, and Jets faithful are equally optimistic about his potential to become a key player in the Big Apple. 


## Fields Returns to Jets Practice After Minor Toe Injury

**Former Buckeye's Last Chance at Franchise Success Looks Secure**

A scare early in the week sent ri

Former Ohio State quarterback returns to Jets practice after

Former Ohio State quarterback returns to Jets practice after injury scare

## Lady Vols Make Their Mark in Thrilling WNBA Showdown

**Former Tennessee Stars Shine in Tight Victory, Harrison Contributes to Liberty Effort**

Los Angeles claimed a hard-fought victory over New York on Saturday night, emerging victorious with a final score of 101-99. The win marked the Sparks' fifth consecutive triumph and showcased the talents of three former Lady Vols basketball players.

**Jackson Clinches Victory in Dramatic Fashion**

Rickea Jackson led the charge for Los Angeles, securing a game-winning field goal as time expired to propel her team to victory.  The second-year professional, drafted fourth overall by the Sparks in 2024, put up an impressive 24 points, along with three rebounds, two assists, and one steal in 31 minutes of play. Jackson's shooting prowess was undeniable, converting 9-of-15 field goals, including 4-of-6 three-pointers, and a perfect 2-of-2 from the free throw line.

**Burrell Provides Spark Off the Bench**

Teammate Rae Burrell also contributed significantly to the Sparks' success, scoring 12 points, grabbing two rebounds, dishing out one assist, and securing one steal in 18 minutes of action. The former Lady Vol, drafted ninth overall by Los Angeles in 2022, showcased her shooting skills by converting 4-of-9 field goals, including 2-of-3 three-pointers, and 2-of-5 free throws.

**Harrison Contributes to Liberty Effort**

Meanwhile, Isabelle Harrison provided valuable support for the Liberty, contributing seven points, one rebound, and one steal in 13 minutes of play. The former Lady Vol, drafted twelfth overall by Phoenix in 2015, displayed her scoring ability by converting 2-of-4 field goals and 3-of-4 free throws.


Harrison's time at Tennessee (2011-15) under legendary coaches Pat Summitt and Holly Warlick saw her earn accolades like SEC Tournament MVP in 2014 and First-Team All-SEC recognition.  


## Lady Vols Make Their Mark in Thrilling WNBA Showdown

**Former Tennessee Stars Shine in Tight Victory, Harrison Contributes to Liberty Effort**

Los Angeles 

Rickea Jackson makes game-winning shot for Sparks at New Yor

Rickea Jackson makes game-winning shot for Sparks at New York

## Tigers Roar into Top 5: Auburn Baseball Prepped for College World Series Run

**Auburn made a stunning comeback in 2025, transforming from cellar dwellers to Super Regional hosts. Now, experts predict another stellar season.**

Just one year after a disappointing campaign with only 27 wins, the Auburn Tigers soared to new heights in 2025.  Their remarkable turnaround saw them improve their win total by 14 games and secure their first-ever Super Regional berth. This impressive surge has caught the attention of college baseball experts at Baseball America, who have ranked Auburn No. 5 in their "way-too-early" top 25 for the 2026 season – a significant jump from their No. 10 ranking at the end of 2025.

Experts Jacob Rudner and Peter Flaherty highlight the impact of standout freshmen Chris Rembert, Christian Chatterton, and Eric Guevara, along with transfers Todd Clay and Drew Whalen, predicting they will propel Auburn to the top of both the SEC and national rankings next season.  


### From Bottom to Top: A Year of Transformation

Auburn's rapid climb back into SEC prominence in 2025 saw them more than double their conference win total from the previous year.  While key contributors Samuel Dutton and Ike Irish have departed, leaving behind a void difficult to fill, returning players like Chris Rembert, Chase Fralick, Eric Guevara, Bub Terrell, Christian Chatterton, and Andreas Alvarez form a solid foundation built upon strategic recruiting.

To bolster their pitching staff, Auburn has welcomed additions Drew Whalen (Western Kentucky), Ethan Harden (Belmont), and Jake Marciano (Virginia Tech). Offensively, Ryan Farber (Texas State), Todd Clay (Alabama-Birmingham) and Logan Greggorio (Northern Illinois) promise exciting contributions.


### Rebuilding for 2026: A New Season Dawns

Despite a successful 2025 season, Auburn head coach Butch Thompson faces the challenge of rebuilding his pitching staff and infield following the departure of several players to Major League Baseball organizations.

The loss of Ike Irish, drafted No. 19 overall by the Baltimore Orioles, will be particularly significant.  His versatility in the field and power at the plate made him a vital asset. 

However, Thompson's proven coaching ability and the return of key players like catcher Chase Fralick, outfielders Lucas Steele and Bub Terrell, and infielders Eric Guevara and Chris Rembert provide optimism for another successful season.  Pitchers Christian Chatterton, Jackson Sanders, Andreas Alvarez, Alex Petrovic, and Saxon Roberts are also poised to contribute alongside returning arms Mason Koch, Connor Gatwood, and Trevor Booton.


### SEC Dominance: A Battle for the Top

Baseball America's top five is heavily dominated by SEC teams. Defending College World Series champion LSU sits at No. 2, followed by Texas at No. 3 and Mississippi State at No. 4. UCLA rounds out the top five, aiming to build on their successful 2025 season with a return to the College World Series.  




## Tigers Roar into Top 5: Auburn Baseball Prepped for College World Series Run

**Auburn made a stunning comeback in 2025, transforming from cellar dwellers to

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