## Gamecocks Face Brutal Road Schedule in 2025

South Carolina football will have four true road games in the 2025 season, facing a gauntlet of challenging environments. The Gamecocks kick off their campaign with a neutral-site matchup against Virginia Tech in Atlanta on August 31st before returning home for two weeks. After that, they'll hit the road for the Mayor’s Cup clash against Missouri on September 20th.

Coach Shane Beamer boasts a respectable 4-1 record on the road in 2024, with the lone loss coming by a narrow margin to Alabama.  He holds an overall road record of 8-11 through his four years with the program.


### A Road Warrior's Trials: Ranked

The Greenville News has ranked South Carolina's 2025 road games from easiest to hardest, considering factors like opponent strength, stadium atmosphere, and recent history.

**4. Missouri:** 
While this game at Faurot Field holds historical significance for Beamer, who is finally looking to break his losing streak in Columbia (0-2), the Tigers won't be easy targets.  Last year’s thrilling Gamecocks victory, capped off by Rocket Sanders’ late touchdown, will undoubtedly fuel Missouri’s fire for revenge. However, compared to other road trips, the environment at Faurot Field might not be as intimidating. Kickoff time is yet to be determined and could fall between 3:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. ET or 6-8 p.m. ET.

**3. Ole Miss:**
Facing Ole Miss late in the season, potentially after a string of wins, presents a different challenge compared to last year's home matchup on October 5th, where South Carolina suffered a crushing 27-3 defeat right after an open date.  The Gamecocks’ knowledge of their previous performance could prove valuable, giving them an edge despite playing in the notoriously hostile Vaught Hemingway Stadium. Kickoff time is also yet to be announced and will likely fall within the same windows as the Missouri game. This marks Beamer's first trip to Oxford, but South Carolina holds a 4-5 all-time road record against Ole Miss.

**2. Texas A&M:**
South Carolina has never tasted victory at Kyle Field. Their 0-2 record under Beamer and an overall 0-5 mark in College Station speak volumes about the daunting task ahead. The Aggies, still smarting from their 44-20 loss to the Gamecocks in 2024, will be eager for revenge in front of their passionate fans. Fortunately for South Carolina, the game is scheduled for an early kick-off sometime between noon and 1 p.m. ET on November 15th, potentially easing some pressure compared to a night game.

**1. LSU:**
Playing at Tiger Stadium is always a nightmare for visiting teams.  South Carolina's history at LSU is dismal, with a 1-13 record all-time, making this Beamer’s baptism by fire in the notoriously hostile environment. The combination of an undefeated LSU team, potentially hungry for revenge after last year's nail-biting loss to South Carolina at Williams-Brice Stadium, and the electric atmosphere in Baton Rouge makes this a near-impossible challenge. Kickoff time is yet to be announced but will likely fall between 3:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. ET or 6-8 p.m. ET.





## Gamecocks Face Brutal Road Schedule in 2025

South Carolina football will have four true road games in the 2025 season, facing a gauntlet of challenging envi

Ranking every stadium on South Carolina football&#39;s 2025 

Ranking every stadium on South Carolina football&#39;s 2025 schedule from easiest to hardest

## Falcons Retain Injured Prop Bello

**Veteran Forward Aims to Make Impact After Rehab**

Newcastle Falcons have retained prop Eduardo Bello for another season despite the Argentinian missing all of last year through injury. The 29-year-old, who has 26 caps for Los Pumas, suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury during a Rugby Championship match in 2024.

Bello, who joined Newcastle from Saracens in 2023 and played 16 games before his injury, is now fully recovered and ready to contribute to the team's campaign next season.  

"It's been a hard year not being able to play after injuring my knee," Bello said. "But I'm determined to make a big contribution during what is a really exciting time for the club."

Newcastle finished bottom of the Gallagher Premiership last season, but a potential takeover by energy drink giant Red Bull looms on the horizon. 

"It will be great having Eduardo on board for the new season," said Newcastle consultant director of rugby Steve Diamond. "When he's fit, he's a starting tighthead for a tier-one nation, and he'll add to the competition we've got on that side of the scrum." 




## Falcons Retain Injured Prop Bello

**Veteran Forward Aims to Make Impact After Rehab**

Newcastle Falcons have retained prop Eduardo Bello for another season

Argentina prop Bello signs new Newcastle deal

##  Beaver County Cross Country: Fans Choose Preseason Stars

The whistle blows, the leaves crunch, and the 2025 season is about to kick off! But before the first race, it’s time to crown Beaver County's top cross country runners. 

**Last Year's Standouts**

West Allegheny's Grace Fritzman made waves last year, snagging silver at the WPIAL Championships and placing 11th at PIAA. She's one of many impressive young athletes poised for another stellar season.

**Vote for Your Favorites**

Think you know who deserves to be crowned? Cast your vote by August 14th at noon for the best boys and girls runners in the county. The results will be revealed on Tuesday, August 19th.  


 **VOTE:** Who are the Beaver County Times preseason high school cross country runners of the year? 


##  Beaver County Cross Country: Fans Choose Preseason Stars

The whistle blows, the leaves crunch, and the 2025 season is about to kick off! But before the fir

Vote for the Beaver County Times high school cross country p

Vote for the Beaver County Times high school cross country preseason runners of the year

## Who Reigns Supreme? Vote for the Shore's Top Rising Volleyball Star

The countdown to next year's season is on, and that means one thing: uncovering the next generation of volleyball superstars. Among the Shore Conference's Class of 2027 juniors, who stands out as the top prospect?  You decide!

**Vote Now for Your Choice:**

Head over to the poll below and cast your vote for the rising junior you think will dominate the court. Polls close on August 21st at 10 PM sharp.


[Poll embedded here] 

 **Technical Notes:**
If the poll doesn't load immediately, try refreshing the page. Voting issues within the app?  Switch to a mobile or desktop browser for a smoother experience. 





## Who Reigns Supreme? Vote for the Shore's Top Rising Volleyball Star

The countdown to next year's season is on, and that means one thing: uncovering the next

VOTE: Who is the Shore girls volleyball No. 1 prospect among

VOTE: Who is the Shore girls volleyball No. 1 prospect among rising juniors?

## Moroccan Football Federation Implements Sweeping Reforms

**New Rules Aim to Enhance Performance Ahead of Major Events**

The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) announced sweeping reforms on Wednesday, August 6, following an executive board meeting chaired by President Fouzi Lekjaa. The meeting focused on Morocco's recent success in hosting continental competitions and outlined preparations for upcoming events, including the 2025 U-17 Women’s World Cup and the 2030 men's FIFA World Cup bid.

**Disciplinary Action & Regulatory Changes**


The reforms include stricter disciplinary rules and regulations aimed at promoting fair play and accountability within the Moroccan football landscape.  Details of these changes were not immediately disclosed.

**Focus on Youth Development & Future Success**

"The FRMF is committed to nurturing young talent and building a strong foundation for the future," said President Lekjaa during the meeting. The federation’s focus on youth development programs will be instrumental in preparing for the 2025 U-17 Women's World Cup bid and beyond. 


## Moroccan Football Federation Implements Sweeping Reforms

**New Rules Aim to Enhance Performance Ahead of Major Events**

The Royal Moroccan Football Federat

Moroccan football federation enacts new rules ahead of 2025,

Moroccan football federation enacts new rules ahead of 2025, 2030 tournaments

## Shelton Stuns De Minaur, Eyes Fritz in Cincinnati Showdown

**American Rallies to Semifinal After Crushing Win Streak**

Ben Shelton reached his first Masters 1000 semifinal Tuesday, dismantling Alex de Minaur 6-3, 6-4. The victory marked Shelton's 101st ATP Tour win and came after a grueling three-set battle against Flavio Cobolli in the previous round.  Shelton dominated on serve, firing 11 aces and eight forehand winners while de Minaur struggled with 28 unforced errors, ending his seven-game winning streak.

"De Minaur is known as one of the best returners out there," Shelton said after the match. "If there's a game designed to slow me down, it's his. But today, I felt in control."

The American secured the crucial break battle 2-1, showcasing his attacking prowess against the typically solid de Minaur.  Shelton will now face World No. 4 Taylor Fritz, the only American ranked higher than him. The semifinal showdown follows a match between Alexander Zverev and Karen Khachanov, scheduled for not before 7 p.m. ET.

**Ranking Climb Within Reach: Can Shelton Crack the Top 5?**

Shelton's victory against de Minaur solidifies his grip on the No. 7 spot in the ATP rankings. He currently sits at 3,720 points with a chance to add another 250 with a win over Fritz Wednesday night. A tournament win would propel him to 4,320 points, enough to surpass legend Novak Djokovic and claim the No. 6 spot.

While the top three of Jack Draper (4,650), Fritz (5,525), and Alexander Zverev (6,380) are seemingly out of reach for now, Shelton is starting to plot his ascent towards the elite.  Beating both Fritz and Zverev in this tournament would be a significant step in that direction.


**A Look Ahead: Toronto & US Open Opportunities**

The Cincinnati Masters begins Thursday, but Shelton enjoys a first-round bye, allowing him extra rest between back-to-back 1,000-point Majors. He reached the quarterfinals in Cincinnati last year before losing to Zverev in three sets.

Shelton will skip the Winston-Salem 250, ensuring at least a week off before the US Open, where he's expected to be a home-court favorite as one of America's top contenders. The tournament kicks off on August 24th and runs through September 7th.




## Shelton Stuns De Minaur, Eyes Fritz in Cincinnati Showdown

**American Rallies to Semifinal After Crushing Win Streak**

Ben Shelton reached his first Master

Ben Shelton reaches first career Masters 1000 semifinals at 

Ben Shelton reaches first career Masters 1000 semifinals at National Bank Open

##  Allen Returns to Bolt Up: Wide Receiver Rejoins Chargers After Chicago Stint


Keenan Allen is back in Los Angeles. The Chargers announced the return of their veteran wide receiver after a single season with the Chicago Bears. 

**A Dip in Production, But Still a Force**


While Allen's numbers dipped from his prolific 2023 campaign with the Chargers, where he hauled in 108 receptions for 1,243 yards and seven touchdowns, he still proved to be a threat in Chicago.  He recorded 70 catches for 744 yards and seven touchdowns despite facing challenges with the Bears' struggling offense and rookie quarterback Caleb Williams at the helm.

**Red Zone Dominance Continues**


Allen’s performance wasn't just about numbers; he remained a clutch player, leading the Bears in touchdowns and scoring all seven of them in the red zone.  He finished as the team’s second-leading receiver. 


"All of his touchdowns came in the red zone," an unnamed source said. 


##  Allen Returns to Bolt Up: Wide Receiver Rejoins Chargers After Chicago Stint


Keenan Allen is back in Los Angeles. The Chargers announced the return of the

Highlights of Chargers WR Keenan Allen&#39;s season with the

Highlights of Chargers WR Keenan Allen&#39;s season with the Bears in 2024

## Caruso Crowns Himself King of Defense 

The Oklahoma City Thunder dominated the NBA season, shattering records and clinching their first-ever championship. Their success wasn’t just about offense; their suffocating defense was a key factor in their journey to the top. And leading that charge? Alex Caruso.


**Caruso Shines on the Biggest Stage**

Known for his relentless energy and commitment to defense, Caruso thrived in the playoffs. While he saw limited minutes during the regular season due to load management, he brought an all-out effort when it mattered most.  

ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins named Caruso the NBA’s best defensive player, a claim that surprised some but not those who witnessed his dominant playoff run. “The eye test doesn't lie," Perkins said. "What I saw what he did in the postseason, in a crucial Game 7, guarding Jokic... And locking him up.”


**“Caruso Won OKC The Championship”**

Perkins went on to explain how Caruso’s performance, alongside stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren, was instrumental in their championship victory. "When you talk about a defensive specialist that can go out there and cause havoc in the game with four or five steals... he was the key reason outside of SGA and J-Dub and Chet Holmgren, when you talk about franchise guys, on why OKC is set to hang a banner this upcoming season.”

While some may find Perkins’ ranking surprising, Caruso's impact on the Thunder’s success is undeniable. His tenacity and ability to disrupt opposing offenses earned him praise from all corners of the league. 


 **A Defensive Legacy**

Caruso’s performance against Nikola Jokic in a pivotal Game 7 was a highlight reel worthy of a champion. He expertly navigated the size disadvantage, showcasing his intelligence and defensive prowess.  This championship victory solidifies Caruso as one of the greatest defenders of his era, a claim backed by advanced metrics and his two NBA championships.

With multiple Thunder players deserving recognition for their defensive abilities, Caruso’s ranking is a testament to his impact on the team's success story. 


## Caruso Crowns Himself King of Defense 

The Oklahoma City Thunder dominated the NBA season, shattering records and clinching their first-ever championship. T

ESPN analyst boldly calls Alex Caruso the NBA&#39;s best def

ESPN analyst boldly calls Alex Caruso the NBA&#39;s best defensive player

## Mississippi's High School Football Phenoms: Cast Your Vote!

Who reigns supreme in the gridiron? Mississippi high school fans have their say as they vote for the top football athlete entering the 2025 season.

**The Contenders:**

* **Braylen Bedford, Vardaman**: A freshman force to be reckoned with, Bedford racked up 1,260 all-purpose yards and a staggering 15 touchdowns last year. His defensive prowess added another layer, as he amassed 67 tackles. Powerhouse programs like Ole Miss, Mississippi State, Texas A&M, and Tennessee are already vying for his talent.

* **Zialis Blackmon, Biggersville**: This three-star recruit according to 247Sports dominated the field with an impressive 2,137 all-purpose yards and a jaw-dropping 29 total touchdowns in his previous season.

* **Quentin Carter, Charleston**:  A multi-faceted threat, Carter contributed 1,486 all-purpose yards and 15 touchdowns while also leading the defense with 28 tackles and two interceptions.

* **Javarious Griffin Jr., Cleveland Central**: This dynamic athlete showcased his skills on both sides of the ball, recording 756 all-purpose yards, including seven receiving touchdowns and five rushing TDs.  His talents have caught the attention of Ole Miss, Tulane, Vanderbilt, and Mississippi State among others.

* **Gavin Howard, Holmes County Central**: This three-star recruit made a significant impact with nine total touchdowns and an impressive 1,599 all-purpose yards. His special teams prowess added another dimension, as he recorded 24 total returns.

* **Jeremiah Harkins, New Hope**: Committed to Middle Tennessee State, this three-star recruit and the No. 64 player in the state helped lead New Hope to an 8-3 record last season.

* **Ian Harlan, Ocean Springs**: Harlan showcased his versatility with 245 all-purpose yards, eight tackles, and three total touchdowns.


**...and More!**

The competition continues with a host of talented athletes vying for the top spot:  Jermaine Jackson, O'Mari Johnson, DJ McNair, Ja'Kayden Moore, Liam Schwartz, Khylan Sinegal, Jaiden Taylor, Justin Verner, Jordan Virgess, Landon Thompson, Xzavier Webber, and Drew Winfun.

**Cast Your Vote:**


[Poll embedded here]



_Voting closes at noon on Sunday.  Vote once per hour per device._ 


## Mississippi's High School Football Phenoms: Cast Your Vote!

Who reigns supreme in the gridiron? Mississippi high school fans have their say as they vote for

Vote for top Mississippi high school football athlete for up

Vote for top Mississippi high school football athlete for upcoming 2025 MHSAA, MAIS season

##  Freeman Rocks 'The Shirt,' Fans Rejoice

Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman is known for connecting with fans, and his latest move has them buzzing. During Wednesday's practice, the 39-year-old coach sported this year's version of "The Shirt," a coveted piece of Under Armour gear worn by Freeman that often sparks a frenzy among supporters.

"One of the fan’s biggest complaints over his tenure has been the inability to purchase some of the Under Armour gear that Freeman wears,"  a recent social media post observed. 

This year, fans won't have to wait for limited releases.  The accessibility of "The Shirt" this time around adds another layer to Freeman's popularity, showcasing his understanding of Notre Dame's unique culture.


Loyal to Notre Dame ☘️#GoIrish☘️ pic.twitter.com/ywH4yIKVxg
— Notre Dame Football (@NDFootball) August 6, 2025  

Freeman, though not a former Irish player himself, has quickly become a beloved figure within the program.




##  Freeman Rocks 'The Shirt,' Fans Rejoice

Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman is known for connecting with fans, and his latest move has them buzzing. Durin

See Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman wearing ‘The Shirt’

See Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman wearing ‘The Shirt’ during Wednesday’s practice

##  Activists Rally Behind Accused Football Star Achraf Hakimi 

**Online Petition Denounces "Smear Campaign" Against PSG Defender**

A collective of French activists has launched an online petition titled “United for Achraf Hakimi” in support of the Moroccan footballer facing rape charges stemming from a 2023 incident in Nanterre. The petition, hosted on MesOpinions.com, alleges that Hakimi is the target of a "coordinated smear campaign."  The Paris Saint-Germain defender remains eligible to play pending the outcome of legal proceedings.


"This campaign seeks to tarnish his reputation without due process," organizers state on the platform.  Hakimi has denied the accusations. 


##  Activists Rally Behind Accused Football Star Achraf Hakimi 

**Online Petition Denounces "Smear Campaign" Against PSG Defender**

A collective of French act

French activists launch petition in support of Achraf Hakimi

French activists launch petition in support of Achraf Hakimi amid rape allegations

## Moroccan Athlete Conquers the "World's Toughest Triathlon"

**Eidfjord, Norway:** Mohamed El Khalil Binebine, a Moroccan triathlete, defied grueling conditions and a challenging course to complete the 22nd edition of the Zalaris Norseman Xtreme Triathlon on Saturday.  

### A Test of Endurance and Willpower

Established in 2003, the Norseman Xtreme Triathlon is renowned for its demanding format and unpredictable weather. This long-distance event, now part of the XTRI World Championship, pushes athletes to their limits with a swim across a glacial lake, followed by a challenging bike ride through rugged mountains, culminating in a final run up a steep hill to the finish line. 

Binebine joined over [Number] participants who braved the demanding course in this year's edition.  The race continues to attract elite athletes from around the globe seeking to conquer one of the world’s toughest triathlons.




## Moroccan Athlete Conquers the "World's Toughest Triathlon"

**Eidfjord, Norway:** Mohamed El Khalil Binebine, a Moroccan triathlete, defied grueling conditio

#Sports

Ranking every stadium on South Carolina football's 2025 schedule from easiest to hardest