## Windy City Showdown: UFC 319 Embedded Goes Behind the Scenes

**Chicago Welcomes Back the Octagon**

The UFC returns to Chicago for the first time in over six years, with UFC 319 set to take place Saturday at the United Center. The ninth pay-per-view event of the year promises an action-packed night, headlined by a clash between reigning middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis and undefeated challenger Khamzat Chimaev.

**Du Plessis vs. Chimaev: A Title Fight for the Ages**


Champion Dricus Du Plessis (23-2 MMA, 9-0 UFC) will defend his title for the third time against the formidable unbeaten contender, Khamzat Chimaev (14-0 MMA, 8-0 UFC).

**Pico's Arrival and More**


Adding to the excitement, former Bellator standout Aaron Pico (13-4 MMA, 0-0 UFC) makes his highly anticipated debut in the co-main event against undefeated featherweight Lerone Murphy (16-0-1 MMA, 8-0-1 UFC). Other intriguing matchups include Michael Page (23-3 MMA, 2-1 UFC) facing former middleweight title challenger Jared Cannonier (18-8 MMA, 11-8 UFC), all taking place in the home of the Chicago Bulls and Blackhawks.

**UFC Embedded: A Peek Behind the Curtain**


The first episode of "Embedded," the popular fight week video series, offers a glimpse into the lives and training regimens of the headliners and featured fighters. The episode follows Dricus Du Plessis as he throws out the first pitch at a Cubs game and attends a Bears practice. Michael “Venom” Page trains with his nephews in a playful "Uncle Bootcamp." Lerone Murphy hones his striking, while Aaron Pico gets fitted for a new suit.  Meanwhile, Carlos Prates enjoys some downtime playing video games, Geoff Neal brings a mobile gym to his house for training, and Khamzat Chimaev focuses on his cardio.




## Windy City Showdown: UFC 319 Embedded Goes Behind the Scenes

**Chicago Welcomes Back the Octagon**

The UFC returns to Chicago for the first time in over si

UFC 319 &#39;Embedded,&#39; No. 1: Dricus Du Plessis gets fi

UFC 319 &#39;Embedded,&#39; No. 1: Dricus Du Plessis gets first taste of the &#39;Friendly Confines&#39;

##  Lions Coach Praises Backup QB After Preseason Win

Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell isn't sweating the team's backup quarterback situation, despite a rough start to the preseason for both Hendon Hooker and Kyle Allen. 

After Friday's win against the Atlanta Falcons, Campbell showered praise on Allen's performance.  "I thought Kyle played really well," Campbell said Monday. "I was fired up. That was outstanding."

Allen entered the game in the first half after Hooker started but fumbled twice. "He gets out there and immediately gives us a boost," Campbell said. "Runs the offense, makes two huge throws in the first drive."  That drive culminated in a touchdown to rookie wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa, capped off by a 68-yard completion to Jackson Meeks. Allen finished the game 7-of-8 for 120 yards and two touchdowns, one each to TeSlaa and Meeks.

Allen’s performance through two preseason games is markedly better than Hooker's.  Allen boasts a 95.1 quarterback rating with 211 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions on a 16-of-22 passing record. Hooker, meanwhile, has a 42.7 rating with 56 yards, one interception, two lost fumbles, and a 10-of-16 passing record.

While Campbell's comments could be viewed as coachspeak, his effusive praise for Allen raises questions about whether he currently holds the edge in the competition for the backup spot. Hooker has shown promise in practice but needs to translate that success to game situations.


The next test for both quarterbacks comes Saturday afternoon when the Lions host the Miami Dolphins at 1:00 eastern. Their final preseason game is August 23 against the Houston Texans.  


##  Lions Coach Praises Backup QB After Preseason Win

Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell isn't sweating the team's backup quarterback situation, despite a r

Dan Campbell heaps praise on QB Kyle Allen after impressive 

Dan Campbell heaps praise on QB Kyle Allen after impressive preseason outing vs Atlanta

## Second-Year Bucs Linebacker Impressing Coach 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Chris Braswell entered the NFL with a reputation as a unique hybrid – part edge rusher, part linebacker. The second-round pick in the 2024 draft was viewed as a potential chess piece for head coach Todd Bowles. Now, entering his second season with higher expectations, Braswell is vying for a more significant role on defense.

While some fans and media members may have differing opinions after Saturday's preseason win over the Tennessee Titans, Bowles offered a decidedly optimistic assessment of Braswell's performance.

“No disappointment at all,” Bowles said Sunday. “We thought he was very physical at the point of attack. We thought he got off the ball some, and the ball was coming out quick. One or two of his rushes could be more speed-to-power, but everything else he did was good. We were pleased with his performance.”

The development of Braswell into a key contributor would benefit both the player and the team.  All eyes will be on his snap count as the preseason progresses, to see if it reflects Bowles' confidence. 




## Second-Year Bucs Linebacker Impressing Coach 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Chris Braswell entered the NFL with a reputation as a unique hybrid – part edg

Bucs HC Todd Bowles was encouraged by Chris Braswell&#39;s p

Bucs HC Todd Bowles was encouraged by Chris Braswell&#39;s performance

## Rams Face Secondary Scramble, Eye Top Cornerback in 2026

The Los Angeles Rams' defense needs attention, and the clock is ticking.  With several key players in their secondary heading into the final year of their contracts, including safeties Quentin Lake and Kamren Curl, and cornerbacks Ahkello Witherspoon, Cobie Durant, and Derion Kendrick,  the 2026 draft and free agency could be make-or-break for Los Angeles.

"The Rams will likely target that position in the 2026 draft and/or free agency," writes Bleacher Report's Alex Ballentine, pointing to a potential big-name acquisition: DaRon Bland of the Dallas Cowboys.

While the Rams were reportedly interested in acquiring Jalen Ramsey this year, their limited cap space ($19.5 million) presented a significant obstacle.  However, things look brighter for 2026. The Rams currently hold the fourth-highest projected cap space, giving them flexibility to pursue top talent.

Bland's future with Dallas is uncertain. The Cowboys haven't extended him, and with Trevon Diggs already on their roster and Micah Parsons requesting a trade, Bland could hit free agency.

His track record speaks for itself:  14 interceptions in his first 32 games, including a league-leading nine in 2023, solidifying his spot as a Pro Bowler and first-team All-Pro selection.  Though a foot injury sidelined him for the start of the 2024 season, he remains a force to be reckoned with, finishing the year with five defended passes, a forced fumble, and a recovered fumble.

Landing Bland won't come cheap. Recent contracts for Sauce Gardner and Derek Stingley Jr., worth $30 million annually, set the bar high. But for the Rams, securing a cornerback of Bland's caliber might mean breaking the bank – or risking losing out on their top draft picks. 





## Rams Face Secondary Scramble, Eye Top Cornerback in 2026

The Los Angeles Rams' defense needs attention, and the clock is ticking.  With several key players 

Rams could target this high-profile CB during 2026 free agen

Rams could target this high-profile CB during 2026 free agency

##   Baker Embraces Special Teams Role, Hoping To Earn Patriots Roster Spot

Javon Baker isn't just hoping to make the New England Patriots' 53-man roster - he's willing to do whatever it takes. The second-year wide receiver surprised some by playing special teams in last Friday's preseason opener,  securing two tackles and catching the eye of coach Mike Vrabel.

**A Chance To Shine**

With Marcellas Dial Jr. sidelined, there's a void on special teams that Baker could potentially fill. This unexpected move could significantly increase his chances of making the team, especially considering the Patriots currently have 11 receivers vying for limited spots.

“If they put me out there and if they say go to special teams, go to kicker, whatever — I’ll do what they want me to do,” Baker told reporters on Sunday.


#Patriots WR Javon Baker on playing special teams for the first time in his career:
“If they put me out there and if they say go to special teams, go to kicker, whatever — I’ll do what they want me to do.”
Baker was the primary gunner opposite Brenden School against Washington. pic.twitter.com/r0Wm3Yv9fH

— Carlos A. Lopez (@LosTalksPats) August 10, 2025


**Beyond Special Teams:**

While special teams could be his ticket to staying on the roster, Baker has shown promise as a receiver in training camp, making plays and hinting at his explosive potential on offense.  His versatility may ultimately prove key to his development at the next level.   


##   Baker Embraces Special Teams Role, Hoping To Earn Patriots Roster Spot

Javon Baker isn't just hoping to make the New England Patriots' 53-man roster - he'

Patriots WR Javon Baker makes admission on move to special t

Patriots WR Javon Baker makes admission on move to special teams

## Bluebloods Reign Supreme: Notre Dame Joins Elite College Football Club

On3 Sports has unveiled its list of college football "blueblood" programs, and the familiar names are front and center. 

To earn a spot on the list, a team needed to boast a top-15 program win percentage over at least 750 games and hold at least one national title in two of three distinct eras: AP or coaches poll during the poll era, winner of the final game in the Bowl Championship Series (BCS) or College Football Playoff (CFP) era.

Notre Dame joins an exclusive group that includes Alabama, Florida State, Georgia, LSU, Miami (FL), Michigan, Ohio State, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas and USC. 

Just missing out on the cut were Auburn, Clemson, Florida, Nebraska and Penn State.  




## Bluebloods Reign Supreme: Notre Dame Joins Elite College Football Club

On3 Sports has unveiled its list of college football "blueblood" programs, and the fa

Notre Dame listed as a blue-blood football program

## Hakimi Sets Sights on Ballon d'Or, Sparking PSG Tension 

Paris Saint-Germain star Achraf Hakimi isn't shying away from his ambitions. The Moroccan international told French broadcaster Canal+ he believes he deserves the prestigious Ballon d'Or award in 2025.  

"I think I deserve the Ballon d'Or, especially when you look at my numbers," Hakimi stated confidently.


Reports now indicate PSG officials have asked Hakimi to retract his comments, concerned about potential negative attention and internal team dynamics.  


## Hakimi Sets Sights on Ballon d'Or, Sparking PSG Tension 

Paris Saint-Germain star Achraf Hakimi isn't shying away from his ambitions. The Moroccan internati

Report: PSG asked Hakimi to drop Ballon d’Or remarks

## Rams Roll in Preseason Opener, Roster Projections Shift

The Los Angeles Rams kicked off their preseason with a resounding 31-21 victory over the Dallas Cowboys. Stetson Bennett impressed at quarterback, but it was the running backs who truly stole the show. Blake Corum, Jarquez Hunter, and Cody Schrader all shined in the win.

While practice is vital, these early games provide crucial insight into players fighting for roster spots.  With one game down, here’s a look at how the Rams' roster might shape up. There are some notable changes brewing at running back, on the offensive line, and at linebacker and cornerback positions. Meanwhile, rising stars at inside linebacker and safety are making their case.

**Quarterback (3)** 
* Matthew Stafford
* Jimmy Garoppolo
* Stetson Bennett

Cut: Dresser Winn

Bennett's training camp performance translated onto the field in Week 1, showcasing confidence and accuracy. His lone interception was a calculated risk against tight coverage.  With his impressive showing, he’s making a strong push to secure a spot on the final roster.


**Running Back (4)**
* Kyren Williams
* Blake Corum
* Jarquez Hunter
* Cody Schrader

Cut: Ronnie Rivers, Jordan Waters

Sean McVay revealed that Rivers will be sidelined for "a little bit of time."  This opens the door for Schrader to solidify his place on the team. The Rams kept him on the 53-man roster last season after claiming him off waivers, indicating they value his potential. His impressive performance in Week 1 (five carries, 59 yards, and a receiving touchdown) only strengthens his case.

**Wide Receiver (6)**
* Puka Nacua
* Davante Adams
* Tutu Atwell
* Jordan Whittington
* Xavier Smith
* Konata Mumpfield

Cut: Britain Covey, Mario Williams, Drake Stoops, Tru Edwards, Brennan Presley

The wide receiver group remains largely unchanged after Week 1. While Smith’s performance bolstered his chances, Covey's strong showing might not be enough to secure a spot with the depth at the position.  Mumpfield, despite a few hiccups, is still a lock for the roster.

**Tight End (4)**
* Tyler Higbee
* Terrance Ferguson
* Colby Parkinson
* Davis Allen

Cut: Anthony Torres, Mark Redman

Allen’s starting role and limited snaps suggest he's in a good position. He appears safe as the fourth tight end on the roster for now.


**Offensive Line (10)**
* Alaric Jackson 
* Steve Avila
* Coleman Shelton
* Kevin Dotson
* Rob Havenstein
* Beaux Limmer
* D.J. Humphries
* Justin Dedich
* Warren McClendon Jr.
* Willie Lampkin

Cut: David Quessenberry, KT Leveston, Dylan McMahon, A.J. Arcuri, Wyatt Bowles, Ben Dooley, Trey Wedig

A notable shift here:  Quessenberry out, Lampkin in. Despite being a veteran, Quessenberry played in Week 1 while McClendon Jr. sat out. This indicates McClendon is ahead on the depth chart. The Rams also don't need three backup tackles, especially with Humphries seemingly secure as the left tackle backup. Lampkin’s performance in Week 1 – earning high marks from PFF –  demonstrates he can hold his own at center despite his size. McMahon's injury and the offensive line depth could put Leveston at risk.

**Defensive Line (6)**
* Kobie Turner
* Poona Ford
* Braden Fiske
* Tyler Davis
* Ty Hamilton
* Larrell Murchison

Cut: Desjuan Johnson, Bill Norton, Da’Jon Terry, Decarius Hawthorne, Jack Heflin

Murchison's spot on the roster is still uncertain.  While he has work to do, his inclusion for now seems likely, considering how thin the defensive line depth currently appears. The other five players are strong contenders for the 53-man roster.


**Outside Linebacker (4)**
* Jared Verse
* Byron Young
* Josaiah Stewart
* Keir Thomas

Cut: Brennan Jackson, Nick Hampton, Josh Pearcy, Jamil Muhammad

Jackson and Hampton's quiet offseason performances continued into Week 1. They played significant snaps compared to Thomas, who only saw action for six plays after starting the game. This suggests Thomas is ahead of them in the competition.

**Inside Linebacker (4)**
* Nate Landman
* Omar Speights
* Troy Reeder
* Chris Paul Jr.

Cut: Shaun Dolac, Elias Neal, Tony Fields II

Despite Dolac’s strong Week 1 performance, his chances might be limited if Reeder secures a spot on the roster. Reeder's inactivity despite being healthy in Week 1 could indicate he's already earned a place on the team. 


**Cornerback (5)**
* Darious Williams
* Ahkello Witherspoon
* Cobie Durant
* Emmanuel Forbes Jr.
* Josh Wallace

Cut: Charles Woods, Derion Kendrick, Shaun Jolly, Cam Lampkin, A.J. Green

The cornerback position is intensely competitive.  Wallace’s versatility – playing both cornerback and safety against the Cowboys – could give him an edge over others like Kendrick. The next few weeks will be crucial in determining the final roster spots at this position.



**Safety (4)**
* Kamren Curl
* Quentin Lake
* Kamren Kinchens
* Jaylen McCollough

Cut: Tanner Ingle, Nate Valcarcel, Malik Dixon-Williams

Valcarcel is making a compelling case for a spot on the 53-man roster. His aggressive play and nine tackles with one pass deflection in Week 1 highlight his potential. He's a player to watch as the Rams evaluate their deep secondary.


**Special Teams (3)**
* K Joshua Karty
* P Ethan Evans
* LS Alex Ward





## Rams Roll in Preseason Opener, Roster Projections Shift

The Los Angeles Rams kicked off their preseason with a resounding 31-21 victory over the Dallas Cowb

Rams 53-man roster projection after 1st preseason game: Chan

Rams 53-man roster projection after 1st preseason game: Changes at RB, OL, CB and more

## Rookie QB Jaxson Dart Delivers 'Mid' Debut, Finds Solace in Mom's Embrace

Dart shined in his first NFL preseason game, completing 12 of 19 passes for 154 yards and a touchdown against the Buffalo Bills. But despite a solid performance, the young quarterback called it "mid" and believes he could have done more.


**A Coach's Confidence**
Head coach Brian Daboll praised Dart after the game, calling him "efficient, effective, aggressive, confident in the pocket." 

"He's a confident young player," Daboll continued. "He's improved since he's been here. Still have a long way to go, but I enjoy working with him."

**Third Down Blues and 'Crunch-Time' Situations**
While Dart displayed promise, he expressed frustration over missed third downs and the inability to capitalize in crucial moments. 

"I just felt like the only reason that we stopped ourselves from scoring touchdowns were just some of those third downs and not converting," he said. "And I feel like personally, I'm really hard on myself. So, in those moments, like I want to capitalize on that. Those possessions in those crunch-time situations really determine the game."


**A Heartfelt Postgame Moment**

After the game, Dart shared an emotional embrace with his mother, Kara Dart, captured in a video that quickly went viral.  The heartwarming moment comes after fans were captivated by Kara's joy during the 2025 NFL draft when the Giants selected Jaxson No. 25 overall.

Dart was also joined by fellow quarterback Tommy DeVito and shared pictures with his family.



**Family Man, Lucky Necklace**

Known for his close-knit family, Dart once stole a heart necklace from his sister, attributing it to good luck.

"So, my little sister had it, it was hers," he explained in May. "It was before our bowl game and as I was leaving the house over Christmas -- a little break before the bowl game -- and just saw it in her room. And I was like, you know what, I kind of like it."

Dart wasn't wearing the necklace during his postgame press conference but plans to return it to his routine. "Shoot, I forgot to wear it. But I'm going to put that back in the routine for sure," he said.  


## Rookie QB Jaxson Dart Delivers 'Mid' Debut, Finds Solace in Mom's Embrace

Dart shined in his first NFL preseason game, completing 12 of 19 passes for 154 ya

See it: Giants&#39; Jaxson Dart shared wholesome moment with

See it: Giants&#39; Jaxson Dart shared wholesome moment with Mother after NFL debut

## A Look at No. 27: The Saints' History With a Key Jersey

The countdown is on: Just 27 days remain until the New Orleans Saints kick off their season against the Arizona Cardinals. Isaac Yiadom, back in the black and gold after a year with the San Francisco 49ers, is sporting No. 27, a number he wore during his first stint in New Orleans. He's poised to play a key role in the team's revamped secondary.

But Yiadom isn't the first to wear this particular jersey.  

**A Legacy of Talent in No. 27**

From Walter "Flea" Roberts, who burst onto the scene as one of the Saints' first stars, to Malcolm Jenkins, a future Hall-of-Famer and Super Bowl champion, No. 27 has been donned by a diverse group of talented players.  

Roberts, though only playing one season (13 games) in New Orleans, left an indelible mark. He racked up 384 receiving yards and 3 touchdowns, including a 96-yard play that still ranks second longest in franchise history. His highlight reel moment came against the Philadelphia Eagles, where he scored on a kickoff return, fumble return, and reception – all within five touches – sealing a historic 31-24 victory, the Saints' first ever win.

Rod McNeill became the first drafted player to wear No. 27 in 1974.  He spent two seasons as a backup running back, racking up 498 total yards and 5 touchdowns. Ray Brown followed McNeill, recording 7 interceptions and 3 fumble recoveries during his three-year stint.

**The Defensive Legacy**

Antonio Gibson's four years wearing No. 27 saw him contribute to the legendary "Dome Patrol" units of the late 1980s and early 1990s. He recorded 3 interceptions in mostly backup and special teams roles. Reggie Jones, another defensive back who wore No. 27 from 1991-1994, contributed 6 interceptions during his four years with the team.

**Offensive Contributions Rise**

Aaron Stecker broke through as a significant offensive contributor for the Saints in No. 27. From 2004 to 2008, he primarily served as a fullback, but amassed 2,017 yards and 8 touchdowns. He is one of only two offensive players who have made a meaningful impact wearing No. 27 for the Saints. Dwayne Washington wore No. 27 during his four years with New Orleans, contributing on both offense and special teams.

**Malcolm Jenkins: A Legend in Black and Gold**

Malcolm Jenkins' two separate stints with the Saints, both while wearing No. 27, solidified him as a franchise legend. He holds the record for most games played in No. 27 (103) and is considered one of the best safeties in Saints history. Drafted 14th overall in 2009, Jenkins was instrumental in the Saints' Super Bowl XLIV victory as a rookie and continued to be a defensive leader throughout his seven seasons with the team. He recorded 10 interceptions (returning 3 for touchdowns), forced 8 fumbles (recovering 5, returning one for a touchdown), and consistently ranked among the team leaders in tackles.

**A New Chapter: Isaac Yiadom's Return**

Jenkins' legacy continues to inspire players like Alontae Taylor, Shemar Jean-Charles, and now Isaac Yiadom. Yiadom's 2023 performance, where he emerged as a key player due to injuries, earned him the recognition of fans and analysts alike.  He broke up 14 passes, recorded an interception, and held opposing quarterbacks to under a 49% completion rate when targeted. 

Iyadom returned to the Saints this offseason on a three-year contract and is expected to be a starting cornerback in 2025. He carries the weight of tradition with him, ready to add his own chapter to the legacy of No. 27 for the New Orleans Saints.  





## A Look at No. 27: The Saints' History With a Key Jersey

The countdown is on: Just 27 days remain until the New Orleans Saints kick off their season against 

27 days until Saints season opener: Every player to wear No.

27 days until Saints season opener: Every player to wear No. 27

## Eagles Star Guard Out After Knee Injury

Philadelphia's Pro Bowl guard, Landon Dickerson, left practice early Friday with a suspected knee injury and is scheduled for an MRI Monday. The setback could sideline him for the upcoming joint practices with the Browns later this week. 

Dickerson was seen being carted off the field after suffering the injury during an open stadium practice. The severity of the injury remains unclear pending the MRI results.  

**Pro Bowl Career on Hold?**
Dickerson's potential absence is a blow to the Eagles, as he's been a cornerstone of their offensive line. He tied Brandon Brooks for the most Pro Bowl selections in team history by an offensive guard, earning the honor three times in his first four seasons. 

**Possible Replacements Step Up**


With Dickerson sidelined, Philadelphia could turn to Kenyon Green, who has been playing as the second-team left guard during training camp. Matt Pryor and Trevor Keegan are also potential options to fill the void.  



 "Landon Dickerson suffered a lower leg injury and later carted off the field" 
— Crossing Broad (@CrossingBroad), August 11, 2025

"Eagles Pro-Bowl guard Landon Dickerson is expected to undergo an MRI today on his knee." 
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter), August 11, 2025 




## Eagles Star Guard Out After Knee Injury

Philadelphia's Pro Bowl guard, Landon Dickerson, left practice early Friday with a suspected knee injury and is sche

Eagles Pro Bowl left guard Landon Dickerson to undergo an MR

Eagles Pro Bowl left guard Landon Dickerson to undergo an MRI for left knee injury

##  Olympic De Safi Faces Nigerien Challenge in CAF Confederation Cup

**Moroccan club drawn against ASN Nigelec in preliminary round.**

The draw for the first preliminary round of the CAF Confederation Cup has paired Moroccan side Olympic de Safi with Nigerien club ASN Nigelec. The match will take place this weekend following the draw held on Saturday in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

Wydad Casablanca, Morocco's other representative in the competition, received a bye through this round and will face the winner of the match between Ghana’s Asante Kotoko and Guinean side AS Kaloum.  




##  Olympic De Safi Faces Nigerien Challenge in CAF Confederation Cup

**Moroccan club drawn against ASN Nigelec in preliminary round.**

The draw for the first

#Sports

UFC 319 'Embedded,' No. 1: Dricus Du Plessis gets first taste of the 'Friendly Confines'