MORE FROM Bill Bender

Why did Jalen Hurts leave Alabama?

Jalen Hurts went from Tuscaloosa to Norman to Philadelphia in rapid succession. Now, he's back in a championship game setting, the biggest of them all.

Devonta Smith would join an elite club if the Eagles win Super Bowl 57

The Philadelphia wide receiver would join a very small fraternity of players if his team can defeat the Chiefs in Arizona in Super Bowl 57.

How do Super Bowl squares work?

Here is how to play Super Bowl squares in 2025, including a complete guide to the rules for your printable grid, the best data-backed numbers and more tips to win during Super Bowl 59.

Before he coached Eagles, Nick Sirianni dominated football at D-III Mount Union

Nick Sirianni has deep roots at Division 3 Mount Union, where he and his brothers won national championships for legendary coach Larry Kehres.

Where Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce rank among best duos in NFL history

Before Mahomes to Kelce, San Francisco's Jerry Rice and Joe Montana and New England's Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski made playoff history.

How Eli Manning's numbers stack up to QBs already in Hall of Fame

When stacking Eli Manning's numbers against the 27 Hall of Fame quarterbacks, there are some interesting findings.

Super Bowl roster breakdown: Georgia, Oklahoma have seven players each

The SEC will be the most well-represented conference on Super Bowl Sunday.

With Patrick Mahomes on deck, a look at Michael Jordan's two three-peats with Bulls

Patrick Mahomes will try to win his third straight Super Bowl on Sunday. Michael Jordan engineered two three-peats during the 1990s.

SEC dominates SN's first bracket projection for 2025 NCAA tourament

The SEC has 13 teams in the NCAA tournament in Sporting News' latest Field of 68.

Mahomes vs. Jordan: Chiefs QB's dominance is in rare 'Air'

Patrick Mahomes is going for a Super Bowl three-peat, but how does he compare to another legendary athlete who notched two separate three-peats in his sport?

Chiefs vs. Eagles Super Bowl 59 prediction

The Chiefs and the Eagles are set to meet in an epic clash in Super Bowl 59. Bill Bender breaks down his pick for the big game.

NFL playoff picks for championship weekend: Bills, Eagles head to Super Bowl

Bill Bender breaks down his championship weekend NFL picks, including the Bills upsetting the Chiefs and the Eagles handling the Commanders.

NFL playoff picks for divisional weekend: Bills, Chiefs set up epic AFC title game

Bill Bender breaks down his divisional-round NFL picks, including the Bills upsetting the Ravens and the Chiefs handling the Texans.

NFL playoff picks for wild-card weekend: Rams upset Vikings, Eagles run past Packers

Bill Bender breaks down his wild-card weekend NFL picks, including the Rams upsetting the Vikings and the Chargers handling the Texans.

NFL playoff QB power rankings: The best and worst starters in 2025

Once again, Patrick Mahomes sits atop our NFL playoff QB power rankings. See the full list heading into the 2025 postseason.

NFL picks, predictions for Week 18: Lions, Broncos win marquee matchups

Bill Bender breaks down his Week 18 NFL picks, including the Broncos and Lions winning pivotal matchups.

Caitlin Clark is The Sporting News Female Athlete of the Year

Caitlin Clark didn't win a national championship, make the Olympic team or get voted the MVP of the WNBA in 2024. What she did was expand the game of at every level.

NFL picks, predictions for Week 17: Commanders, Vikings win marquee matchups

Bill Bender breaks down his Week 17 NFL picks, including the Commanders and Vikings winning pivotal NFC matchups.

NFL picks, predictions for Week 16: Eagles, Buccaneers win marquee matchups

Bill Bender breaks down his Week 16 NFL picks, including the Eagles and Buccaneers winning pivotal NFC matchups.

NFL picks, predictions for Week 15: Eagles, Lions win marquee matchups

Bill Bender breaks down his Week 15 NFL picks, including the Eagles and Lions winning potential Super Bowl previews.

NFL picks, predictions for Week 13: Eagles, Steelers win marquee matchups

Bill Bender breaks down his Week 13 NFL picks, including the Eagles continuing to roll and the Steelers getting back on track.

NFL picks for Thanksgiving: Lions too good, Dolphins-Packers to play tight one

Bill Bender breaks down his Thanksgiving NFL picks.

NFL picks, predictions for Week 12: Packers, Chargers win marquee matchups

Bill Bender breaks down his Week 12 NFL picks, including the 49ers and Ravens continuing their struggles.

Redrafting the top quarterbacks from stacked 2020 draft class

The 2020 NFL Draft QB class is stacked with at least five franchise passers. How would the top signal-callers be selected if the draft was held today? Bill Bender breaks down his picks.

NFL picks, predictions for Week 11: Chiefs, Ravens win marquee matchups

Bill Bender breaks down his Week 11 NFL picks, including the Chiefs continuing their quest for a perfect season and the Ravens slowing down the Steelers.

NFL picks, predictions for Week 10: Lions, Eagles win marquee matchups

Bill Bender breaks down his Week 10 NFL picks, including the Lions continuing their hot streak in Houston and the Eagles putting away the Cowboys.

Breaking down Lamar Jackson and Joe Burrow's burgeoning rivalry

Lamar Jackson and Joe Burrow will continue their rivalry on 'Thursday Night Football' in Week 10. Who has the edge so far between the two franchise QBs?

NFL picks, predictions for Week 9: Lions, Cowboys win marquee matchups

Bill Bender breaks down his Week 9 NFL picks, including the Lions continuing their hot streak in Green Bay and the Cowboys getting back on track against the Falcons.

A look inside the Cowobys-49ers rivalry, from the best moments to all-time record

The 49ers and Cowboys are set to renew their rivalry on 'Sunday Night Football' in Week 8. Relive the most memorable moments from these historic franchises.

NFL picks, predictions for Week 8: Commanders, 49ers win marquee matchups

Bill Bender breaks down his Week 8 NFL picks, including the Commanders winning the battle of Rookie of the Year frontrunners and the 49ers getting back on track against the reeling Cowboys.

NFL picks, predictions for Week 7: Lions, Chiefs win marquee matchups

Bill Bender breaks down his Week 7 NFL picks, including the Lions getting a big road win over the Vikings and the Chiefs staying perfect in a Super Bowl rematch vs. the 49ers.

Why Bengals coach Zac Taylor is on hot seat after 1-4 start

Bill Bender explains why Bengals coach Zac Taylor needs to turn things around quickly to save his job.

NFL picks, predictions for Week 6: Lions, Ravens win marquee matchups

Bill Bender breaks down his Week 6 NFL picks, including the Lions getting a big road win over the Cowboys and the Ravens winning the Beltway Battle vs. the Commanders.

Revisiting the Cowboys-Steelers rivalry: Super Bowls, Hall of Famers and more

The Cowboys and Steelers defined the NFL in the late 1970's, and the rivalry has endured.

Julian Edelman discusses Bill Belichick's future, Tom Brady's announcing role

Julian Edelman is convinced Bill Belichick is using this season as a learning experience for when he returns to the sideline.

NFL picks, predictions for Week 5: Bills, Cowboys get big road wins

Bill Bender breaks down his Week 5 NFL picks, including the Cowboys and Bills getting big road wins over Steelers and Texans.

Where Jim Harbaugh ranks among all-time winningest coaches

It might surprise some that Jim Harbaugh is one of the all-time winningest coaches in NFL history. Bill Bender breaks down the numbers.

Week 4 NFL picks: Vikings & Bills get derailed by Packers & Ravens

Bill Bender breaks down his Week 4 NFL picks, including the Packers and Ravens slowing down the Vikings and Bills.

Who are the best coaching candidates to replace Mike McCarthy if he's let go in Dallas?

From Bill Belichick to Lincoln Riley, we break down the top coaching candidates to replace Mike McCarthy in Dallas if Jerry Jones lets him go.

Week 3 NFL picks straight-up: Vikings, Ravens, Chargers win tough ones

Bill Bender breaks down his Week 3 NFL picks, including tough calls on the Vikings, Ravens, and Chargers.

Patrick Mahomes vs. Joe Burrow head-to-head record

The Chiefs and Bengals QBs have played a lot of close matchups. Here's a look at their head-to-head matchup record after Week 2's Kansas City vs. Cincinnati game.

Week 2 NFL picks straight-up: Chiefs, Ravens, Chargers among best picks

Bill Bender breaks down his Week 2 NFL picks, from backing the Chiefs, Chargers, and Ravens to a potential upset on Thursday.

Week 1 NFL picks: Cowboys upset Browns, Chargers edge Raiders

Bill Bender breaks down his Week 1 NFL picks.

Can Jordan Love live up to his lofty salary in 2024?

Patrick Mahomes vs. Lamar Jackson head-to-head record

Patrick Mahomes and Lamar Jackson are both two-time MVPs, but the Chiefs QB has had the clear upper hand in head-to-head matchups.

'Untold: The Murder of Air McNair' sheds little new light on shocking death

"The Murder of Air McNair" is a tragic tale of the legacy of an NFL star and the pain that still remains from his shocking death.

What to know about France's men's basketball roster ahead of Olympic final

Will France win the 2024 Summer Olympics men's basketball gold-medal game in Paris?

Everything you need to know about Serbia's Olympic basketball team

The Serbian roster features four players who currently play in the NBA.

What to know about Germany's men's basketball roster ahead of Olympic semi

Germany has a chance to clinch its first medal in men's basketball at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. 

Ranking all 108 U.S. men's basketball Olympians since the 1992 Dream Team

The dream 'Dream Team' is a sight to behold.

What you need to know about Brazil's 2024 Olympics men's basketball team

Get to know the USA men's basketball team's next opponent, Brazil, before they tip off in a quarterfinal game at 3 p.m. ET on Tuesday.

Breaking down Puerto Rico's roster ahead of Group game with Team USA

Puerto Rico upset the U.S. in their last Olympic meeting in 2004. Odds are, that will not happen again.

Randy Gradishar, star of Broncos' 'Orange Crush', finally gets his Hall of Fame moment

Randy Gradishar was the soul of the "Orange Crush" defense. 

Where Hall of Fame inductee Andre Johnson ranks in all-time catches, yards

Andre Johnson is making history for Houston. He will become the first Houston Texans player to be enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio, on Saturday.

Devin Hester becomes first returner inducted into Pro Football Hall of Fame

Hester joins Dwight Freeney, Randy Gradishar, Andre Johnson, Steve McMichael, Julius Peppers and Patrick Willis in this year's class.

Inside South Sudan's basketball team at 2024 Olympics

The quick rise of the South Sudan Basketball Federation, led by former NBA player Luol Deng, is one of the feel-good stories of this year's Olympics.

Ranking the best and worst prime-time games in 2024

The NFL season starts with a bang with a rematch of last year's AFC championship game, but not every game under the lights promises to bring as much excitement. SN's Bill Bender ranks the best and worst prime-time games in 2024.

Could NFL players play in the NBA? Here's 30 we'd like to see try

Austin Rivers says NFL players can't play in the NBA. Here's some we'd like to see give it a try.

Ranking the quarterbacks for the 2025 NFL Draft, starting with Shedeur Sanders

The top of the quarterbacks class for next year could have plenty of hype with Colorado's Shedeur Sanders and Texas' Quinn Ewers.

NFL Draft prospects 2025: Big board of top 50 players overall, position rankings for next year

​NFL Draft winners & losers 2024: Vikings load up, Cowboys lag behind

A look at the biggest winners and losers from the 2024 NFL Draft.

NFL Draft picks by college 2024: Michigan edges Texas for most picks

SN is keeping track of which colleges are leading the way in picks at the 2024 NFL Draft.

Day 2 NFL Draft winners & losers: Commanders impress, Cowboys leave questions

A look at the winners and losers from Day 2 of the 2024 NFL Draft

Michigan players drafted 2024: Full list of NFL Draft picks from Wolverines, including J.J. McCarthy, Blake Corum

A look at every Michigan selection in the 2024 NFL Draft.

Full list of NFL Draft picks from Crimson Tide in Nick Saban's final draft class

Nick Saban has produced some legendary draft classes while coaching Alabama. He officially closed the book on legacy with one more strong group in 2024.

Will Michigan break Georgia's record for most players drafted in an NFL Draft in 2024?

Georgia holds the record for most players picked in an NFL Draft, but Michigan has a real chance to break that in 2024. Bill Bender breaks down how it could happen.

NFL Draft winners & losers: Bears nail picks, Falcons take unnecessary risk in Round 1

A look at the winners and losers from the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft.

How USC receiver Brenden Rice compares to his famous father

The 2024 NFL Draft is full of notable father-son connections, but only one involves arguably the greatest football player of all-time.

History of Alabama's first-round draft picks under Nick Saban

Nick Saban will join ABC's NFL Draft broadcast team, but the legendary Alabama coach is still expected to add to the eye-popping collection of first-round picks who played under him. SN's Bill Bender looks back at all of Saban's first-rounders.

How have USC QBs drafted in the first round fared in the NFL?

Caleb Williams will make the sixth USC quarterback to be picked in the first round of the Super Bowl era. How have his predecessors made out?

Is Ladd McConkey related to Phil McConkey? Georgia WR shares to similarities to former Giants Super Bowl champ

Who's the best WR in loaded 2024 NFL Draft class?

The WR class in the 2024 NFL Draft is one of the strongest ever, and it starts at the top with three blue-chip prospects. SN's Bill Bender breaks down whether Marvin Harrison Jr., Rome Odunze, or Malik Nabers stands out above the rest.

J.J. McCarthy NFL Draft scouting report: Why Michigan QB is drawing Jim Harbaugh comparisons

J.J. McCarthy is one of the most polarizing players in the 2024 NFL Draft. SN breaks down what to expect from the Michigan QB in the NFL.

Bo Nix Scouting Report: What QB says about Drew Brees comparisons

Quarterbacks are all the rage in the 2024 NFL Draft, but will Bo Nix join the first-round party? We break down the Oregon QBs first-round outlook and talk to him about his Drew Brees comparisons.

8 safest picks in the 2024 NFL Draft, from Marvin Harrison Jr. to Brock Bowers

The safest picks in the NFL Draft don't always go at the top. SN's Bill Bencer breaks down the eight players who are as close to "sure things" as possible in 2024.

Michigan-only NFL mock draft 2024: Projecting where J.J. McCarthy & more Wolverines will be drafted

Michigan was the king of college football last year, so it only makes sense it will reign supreme at the 2024 NFL Draft. Bill Bender projects where Michigan's key contributors, including J.J. McCarthy, Blake Corum, and Roman Wilson, will be drafted.

Projecting the starting QB for all 32 NFL teams in 2024

The quarterback carousel figures to be in full swing this offseason, with several high-profile rookies and big-name veterans taking over for new teams. SN's Bill Bender projects who's going where and what the starting QB landscape will look like in Week 1 of the 2024 season.

How many Super Bowls has Patrick Mahomes won? Chiefs QB moving up the all-time list

Patrick Mahomes has already accomplished a lot in his younger career, and he's quickly moving up the all-time list of most Super Bowl wins for a QB.

Super Bowl 2024 winners and losers: Patrick Mahomes, Andy Reid confirm Chiefs are in their dynasty era

The Chiefs are officially a dynasty. Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce and Andy Reid all cemented their legacies with a third Super Bowl title in five years while Kyle Shanahan's 49ers wilted on the big stage again.

Sporting News panel reveals where Patrick Mahomes ranks among all-time QBs

Patrick Mahomes latest Super Bowl heroics have him among the all-time greats of the game.

Where Chiefs fit in NFL dynasty rankings with another Super Bowl win

The Chiefs enter "dynasty" territory with a third Super Bowl win in the past five years. SN's Bill Bender looks at where the Chiefs' run ranks among the best stretches in NFL history.

How do Super Bowl squares work? Here are rules, best numbers & tips to win your 2024 grid

How good was Joe Montana? Don't leave 'Joe Cool' out of the GOAT debate

Patrick Mahomes vs. Tom Brady is a hot topic in NFL circles, but another QB with ties to both of this year's Super Bowl teams shouldn't be left out of the GOAT debate. SN's Bill Bender breaks down the greatness of Joe Montana.

Revisiting Broncos' Super Bowls with Mike Shanahan & Ed McCaffrey as sons prepare for Super Bowl 58

Kyle Shanahan and Christian McCaffrey are preparing for Super Bowl 58, much like their dads did more than 25 years ago. SN's Bill Bender breaks down the family connection between these coaches and players.

Can Travis Kelce make history as the first tight end to win Super Bowl MVP?

It's been the "Year of Kelce," but can the Chiefs' star make history as the first tight end to win Super Bowl MVP? SN's Bill Bender breaks down his odds.

M&M's Super Bowl commercial 2024: Inside the 'Almost Champions' ad with Dan Marino, Terrell Owens, Bruce Smith

In Our Football Era: How Taylor Swift changed my father-daughter NFL experience

Taylor Swift has taken over the NFL, and while some complain about her oversized presence at Chiefs games, others, like SN's Bill Bender and his daughter, can't get enough of the pop star.

Super Bowl rosters by college: SEC, Big Ten lead the way for Chiefs, 49ers

Oklahoma has the most players in the Super Bowl for the second straight season.

Chiefs vs. 49ers Super Bowl 58 prediction

The Chiefs and the 49ers are set to meet in an epic clash in Super Bowl 58. Bill Bender breaks down his pick for the big game.

Ranking a loaded group of Senior Bowl QBs, which include Michael Penix, Bo Nix

This year's quarterback class is more intriguing than usual. Michael Penix and Bo Nix both finished in the top three of the Heisman voting.

Dan Campbell's fourth-down calls ignored the momentum that came with them

Dan Campbell was the reason were so close to their first Super Bowl appearance. You can also argue he's the reason they didn't reach the big game.

Patrick Mahomes Super Bowl record: How Chiefs QB compares to Tom Brady, other legends with fourth trip by age 28

Patrick Mahomes at age 28 is already miles ahead of Tom Brady's historic pace of playoff success. Here's a look inside the Chiefs QB's Super Bowl stats compared to the GOAT and other legends before him.

What to expect in Jim Harbaugh's NFL return

With his mission complete at Michigan, Jim Harbaugh is back in the NFL, this time with the Chargers. The Sporting News' Bill Bender breaks down what fans can expect to see from Harbaugh in his second tour on NFL sidelines.

Jim Harbaugh will try to join exclusive club of coaches winning national titles, Super Bowls

Harbaugh is joining the Chargers. Could he join the likes of Jimmy Johnson and Barry Switzer as national championship-winning head coaches to hoist the Lombardi Trophy, as well?

Inside the record-setting NFL playoff rivalry of the Packers and 49ers

The Green Bay Packers and San Francisco 49ers will set an NFL record with their 10th head-to-head playoff matchup on Saturday.

Browns schedule 2023: Dates & times for all 17 games, strength of schedule, final record prediction

Here is a complete breakdown of the Browns' 2023 schedule, including dates, start times and analysis for all 17 games.

Steelers schedule 2023: Dates & times for all 17 games, strength of schedule, final record prediction

Here is a complete breakdown of the Steelers' 2023 schedule, including dates, start times and analysis for all 17 games.

Vikings schedule 2023: Dates & times for all 17 games, strength of schedule, final record prediction

Here is a complete breakdown of the Vikings’ 2023 schedule, including dates, start times and analysis for all 17 games.

Eagles Kelly Green jerseys, explained: What to know about Philadelphia's throwback uniforms, helmet

The Eagles' beloved uniforms are a throwback to the late 1980s and early 1990s, the years that featured Randall Cunningham, Reggie White and Jerome Brown.

Debunking the NFL 'script' after Week 1, from Cowboys hype to Jets replacement for Aaron Rodgers

Justin Fields vs. Jordan Love: Who will reign in next QB chapter of Bears-Packers rivalry?

Aaron Rodgers, Tom Brady and 10 other Hall of Fame QBs who changed teams

Aaron Rodgers is taking on the Big Apple in the latest late-career transition by a Hall of Fame quarterback. How will he fare compared to these 11 others before him?

Deuce Vaughn the next Darren Sproles? Kansas State backs share similar heights, stats and more

Who is Chuck Howley? Meet the only Super Bowl MVP winner on the losing team

Chuck Howley, a Pro Football Hall of Fame linebacker, will forever be the answer to a trivia question. 

Ranking NFL alternate, throwbacks for 2023

The Sporting News is ranking all the alternate and throwback looks among NFL teams ahead of the 2023 season. Is your favorite team atop the list?

Patrick Mahomes entering veteran phase of NFL superstar status

Two-time Super Bowl champ Patrick Mahomes is learning how to balance family, celebrity and NFL stardom as he enters his eighth season.

The 50 most-hyped draft prospects of all time, ranked

From LeBron James and Victor Wembanyama to Ken Griffey Jr. and Peyton Manning, SN ranked the 50 most-hyped draft prospects of the last 50 years.

The Ultimate GOAT Scorecard: Year-by-year with MJ and LeBron

High school MJ or high school LeBron? UNC Jordan or early Cavs LeBron? Dream Team Jordan or Redeem Team LeBron? Now that Year 20 is over for The King, we put together a year-by-year scorecard for the all-time NBA GOAT debate.

The best (and worst) prime-time games on the 2023 NFL schedule

Patrick Mahomes and the rest of the elite quarterbacks in the NFL will make for great TV when they go up against one another.

Packers schedule 2023: Dates & times for all 17 games, strength of schedule, final record prediction

Here is a complete breakdown of the Packers' 2023 schedule, including dates, start times and analysis for all 17 games.

Aaron Rodgers Jets schedule: Ranking all 17 opponents loaded with QB matchups, prime-time games

There's no shortage of intrigue surrounding the Jets' schedule with Aaron Rodgers under center. Sporting News ranks all 17 of his opponents in 2023, from Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs to C.J. Stroud and the Texans.

Why did the NFL give the Packers so many prime-time games without Aaron Rodgers?

Aaron Rodgers' absence did not prevent the Packers from getting prime-time treatment from the NFL.

Does Aaron Rodgers play against Packers in 2023? Here's the earliest a Lambeau Field reunion could happen

The Jets will have several prime-time games on the 2023 NFL schedule, but Green Bay won't be one of those games in the regular season.

NFL Draft prospects 2024: Big board of top 50 players overall, position rankings for next year

The Sporting News' first big board for the 2024 NFL Draft ranks the top 50 players projected to be available. Next year's crop is loaded at QB, led by Caleb Williams and Drake Maye, but it's a wide receiver who takes the top spot for now.

Alabama, Georgia tie for first with 10 draftees each

For the sixth straight year, an SEC school (or two schools this year), led the way with the most NFL Draft picks.

NFL Draft QB rankings 2024: Caleb Williams, Drake Maye lead top 10 for next year's loaded quarterback class

Will the 2024 NFL Draft produce the strongest quarterbacks class we've seen in years? With Caleb Williams and Drake Maye at the forefront, The Sporting News looks at next year's QB crop in our way-too-early top 10 rankings.

NFL Draft winners & losers 2023: Steelers, Lions score Day 2 hauls; Will Levis lands softly; Panthers reach too far

Will Levis and Hendon Hooker didn't go in the first round, but they both emerged as winners on Day 2 finding ideal landing spots with the Titans and Lions. It was a painful wait for Darnell Washington, though.

​NFL Draft winners & losers 2023: Eagles, Steelers, Bengals find value everywhere; 49ers, Jets leave questions

Here are the biggest winners and losers from the 2023 NFL Draft, from Philadelphia's Georgia pipeline and a record run on quarterbacks down to head-scratching hauls for the Jets and 49ers.

Aidan O'Connell NFL Draft scouting report: Why Purdue QB matches profile of a 2023 sleeper pick

Aidan O'Connell, a two-year starter at Purdue, is one of the most underrated QBs in the 2023 draft and a potential Day 3 steal with NFL starting potential.

NFL Draft winners & losers 2023: Texans, Eagles own Day 1 with bold moves; Will Levis falls out of first round

From the Texans' surprising trade back into the top three to Will Levis' uncomfortable tumble out of the first round, the winners and losers of the 2023 NFL Draft are already coming into focus after Day 1.

Isiah Pacheco's seventh-round story should inspire future late NFL Draft picks

Why Mel Kiper, Todd McShay think Bijan Robinson will meet first-round running back value

Texas standout Bijan Robinson has been one of the NFL Draft's most polarizing prospects, mostly because of the position he plays.

Heisman Trophy and the No. 1 pick: Will Bryce Young continue trend at 2023 NFL Draft?

A Heisman-winning quarterback drafted No. 1 overall in the NFL Draft is a fairly recent trend.

How top QBs in 2023 NFL Draft played vs. Georgia, and why that matters for Bryce Young, C.J. Stroud

Georgia's vaunted defense was a common denominator for the 2023 NFL Draft's top five quarterbacks. Here's how they fared and what those performances might tell us about their NFL future.

Hendon Hooker mock draft: Will Tennessee QB be a Round 1 pick with stock on the rise?

Tennessee's Hendon Hooker is the ultimate QB wild-card in the 2023 NFL Draft. His soaring stock as a polish prospect could make it five quarterbacks taken in Thursday's first round.

Jordan Love era begins in Green Bay: What to expect from Pack's new starter

Jordan Love inherits a team that finished 8-9 and missed the playoffs for the first time under coach Matt LaFleur. While Aaron Rodgers in the Big Apple will be the headliner, Love's career progress with the Packers is every bit as intriguing in 2023. 

The 8 safest NFL Draft picks in 2023, from Will Anderson Jr. to Jaxon Smith-Njigba

Countless hours of scouting and research go into the NFL Draft every year, and still most picks have a high percentage to flop. But these eight players in 2023 should be considered locks for long, successful NFL careers.

Who were the winners and losers of the 2023 NFL Combine?

Players' draft stock rose and fell over the four days of drills in Indianapolis. The Sporting News tries to sort it all out.

Bijan Robinson gets his chance to add to Texas' NFL running back legacy

Robinson has earned his place in Longhorns lore next to Ricky Williams, Earl Campbell, Cedric Benson and others. His new mission: join the group of standout NFL runners who played at UT.

How Jaxon Smith-Njigba can silence the critics at NFL Combine

Jaxon Smith-Njigba is the latest in a long line of Buckeyes receivers poised to star at the next level.

How TCU's Quentin Johnston became '23 draft's top WR: His college coach sees Hall of Fame talent

TCU coach Sonny Dykes has coached more than 30 receivers who have gone on to the NFL. He believes Quentin Johnston is as talented as any of them.

Super Bowl 2023 winners & losers: Patrick Mahomes, Andy Reid solidify Chiefs dynasty; Eagles flop in second half

The Eagles put on a show in the first half of Super Bowl 57, but Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs were pristine after halftime to win a second championship. Here were the biggest winners and losers from a thrilling (and controversial) Super Bowl.

Patrick Mahomes can join elite group with second Super Bowl victory

Patrick Mahomes can become one of the few quarterbacks in NFL history with multiple MVP awards and multiple Super Bowl titles. A deeper look at all he has accomplished in just six seasons.

Breaking down the Bengals' biggest questions ahead of 2023 season

The biggest unknown of Cincinnati's offseason may involve one player who definitely will be back.

Inside the Joe Burrow-Ja'Marr Chase connection, from LSU to the NFL

Burrow and Chase won a national championship together at LSU in 2019. This year has rekindled comparisons to that unstoppable season.

How Joe Burrow vs. Patrick Mahomes compares to Tom Brady vs. Peyton Manning & other rivalries

Joe Burrow and Patrick Mahomes will become the 10th pair of quarterbacks in NFL history to meet multiple times in a championship game. It is already conjuring comparisons to the great Peyton Manning vs. Tom Brady duels from the previous two decades.

Where did Kellen Moore go to college? Revisiting Cowboys OC's record-breaking Boise State playing career

'How 'bout them Cowboys': Jimmy Johnson's famous line, 30 years later

One of the NFL's signature quotes emerged from a Cowboys vs. 49ers playoff game in January 1993.

Revisiting the Bengals vs. Bills 'no-huddle' controversy in 1988 playoffs

Imagine if Joe Burrow and Josh Allen were told they couldn't run a no-huddle offense. That actually happened in a previous Bengals-Bills playoff matchup.

Brian Daboll's coaching timeline, from Bama to the Bills to the Big Apple

Who Dey origin, explained: How Bengals' chant started and what it means

The "Who Dey" chant dates back to the 1980s, and there is some debate about how it started. SN looks at the 'Who Dey' origin story.

When was the last time the Dolphins won a playoff game?

You have to go back more than two decades to find the last time the Dolphins won in the NFL playoffs.

Lions schedule 2022: Dates & times for all 17 games, strength of schedule, final record prediction

Detroit enters Dan Campbell's second season. Will the Lions double their win total from 2021?

Browns schedule 2022: Dates & times for all 17 games, strength of schedule, final record prediction

The Cleveland Browns have a new quarterback in Deshaun Watson, but there still is uncertainty against a tough home schedule in 2022.

Commanders schedule 2022: Dates & times for all 17 games, strength of schedule, final record prediction

Washington has a softer schedule in 2022. Will Ron Rivera lead the Commanders back to the NFC playoffs?

Steelers schedule 2022: Dates & times for all 17 games, strength of schedule, final record prediction

The Steelers open the 2022 season with a new quarterback. Sporting News looks at Pittsburgh's chances in the AFC North against a tough schedule.

How the Packers can lean on their running game to fix their struggling offense

Green Bay needs to get Aaron Rodgers' main backfield mates the rock more, especially in a specific situation.

Ranking NFL alternate, throwback helmets for 2022, from Panthers' black to Giants' classic look

Sporting News ranks the alternate and throwback helmets for the 2022 season.

NCAA men's lacrosse championship bracket, times, TV schedule and players to watch

Sporting News looks at the NCAA men's lacrosse bracket for the 2022 championship.

Packers schedule 2022: Dates & times for all 17 games, strength of schedule, final record prediction

The Packers have won 13 games each of the last three seasons. Will Aaron Rodgers lead another NFC title run against a challenging schedule?

NFL Draft prospects 2023: Big board of top 50 players overall, position rankings

C.J. Stroud, Will Anderson and Bryce Young are at the top of Sporting News' first Big Board for 2023.

Projecting NFL Draft first-round QBs through 2026, from C.J. Stroud to Arch Manning

The 2022 NFL Draft is short on franchise quarterbacks, but that won't be a problem the next four years. SN looks ahead.

Who is Travon Walker? Meet the NFL Draft's fastest-rising prospect who surged into No. 1 overall pick discussion

Travon Walker made a one-year rise from Georgia starter to potential No. 1 pick.

Will the Steelers take a quarterback in 2022 NFL Draft? Desmond Ridder, Kenny Pickett top options

The Steelers have drafted a QB in the first round three times in the Super Bowl era. Will 2022 mark the fourth time? SN takes a closer look.

Garrett Wilson vs. Chris Olave: Which Ohio State wide receiver is a better NFL bet?

Ohio State's Garrett Wilson and Chris Olave are surefire first-round picks, but which Buckeyes receiver is the better NFL bet?

Packers draft picks: Ranking 5 best combinations for Green Bay's two Round 1 selections

Green Bay hasn't drafted a receiver in the first round since 2002. Will the Packers double down and take two in 2022?

LeBron James' Lakers vs. Michael Jordan's Wizards: Fact, fiction in latest GOAT debate

Which team was better? Or worse? The Sporting News sorts out yet another facet of the MJ vs. LeBron debate.

Matthew Stafford's Lions timeline: How Rams QB escaped Detroit in trade to reach Super Bowl one year later

Matthew Stafford spent 12 seasons in Detroit, where he left the franchise with a two-sided respect. Now, he's in the Super Bowl after just one year with the Rams.

Why didn't Joe Burrow start at Ohio State? Revisiting his transfer to LSU

Why didn't Joe Burrow start at Ohio State? SN looks at the path that led Burrow to LSU, and the reason why Burrow still claims both schools.

WRs for Super Bowl MVP

Super Bowl 56 features four receivers who are legitimate threats to win the Super Bowl MVP award. SN breaks down those cases for each.

SB rosters by college

LSU and Florida are tied with the most players in Super Bowl 56. Here is a complete breakdown of the Rams and Bengals rosters by college.

Bender: Greatest playoff game ever?

Was the Bills-Chiefs overtime thriller the best playoff game in NFL history? SN compares it to the classics.

Ranking the 27 modern-era quarterbacks in Pro Football Hall of Fame

As Peyton Manning enters the Pro Football Hall of Fame, we wonder where he ranks among QBs who are already enshrined. We're sure you will completely agree with our ranking of all 26 modern-era passers.

CP3, Suns lament missed opportunities in Game 5

The Suns will now head to LA for an opportunity to close out the series in Game 6 after falling short on their home floor.

The USFL is back

The 1980s upstart league is back, and we'd like to see the return of these eight nostalgic franchises.

Will Aaron Rodgers leave the Packers?

What will the Packers and Aaron Rodgers do after June 1? That's the big question heading into the summer.

NFL Week 1 schedule

The NFL teased its Week 1 schedule, and there are several intriguing matchups to start the season, including the Thursday Night Football opener between the Cowboys and Buccaneers.

Ranking the 17th game for each NFL team in 2021

What are the best matchups for the 17th game that the NFL added to the schedule in 2021?

NFL Draft winners & losers after the first two nights

Sporting News breaks down the biggest winners and losers from the 2021 NFL Draft. Which teams got it right? Which ones got it wrong?

Top 10 QB prospects

Sam Howell and Spencer Rattler lead the next wave of quarterbacks for the 2022 NFL Draft, but some other prospects could emerge by next April.

NFL picks by college

Here's a look at the 2021 NFL Draft picks by college after Round 1.

NFL Draft winners & losers after the first night

Sporting News breaks down the biggest winners and losers from Night 1 of the 2021 NFL Draft. Which teams got it right? Which ones got it wrong?

Kyle Pitts

Tight end is not typically a priority position in the NFL Draft, but Kyle Pitts is billed as a generational prospect. Here's at other tight ends drafted in the first round since 1967 and how they fared.

The eight safest NFL Draft picks in 2021, from Trevor Lawrence to Najee Harris

Who are the safest picks in the 2021 NFL Draft? SN looks at eight players who fit that description.

Who should Bengals pick in 2021 NFL Draft?

The Bengals are one of the few teams that don't need a quarterback at the top of the 2021 NFL Draft. They're perfectly positioned to nab the top non-QB, but that makes for a difficult decision.

Donald Driver talks retirement, Aaron Rodgers and Packers' next move

Donald Driver played for Brett Favre and Aaron Rodgers. That's why he's not pushing speculation about Rodgers' future in Green Bay.

Tua Tagovailoa expects better results in 2021

Tua Tagovailoa is ignoring the noise, and he shared what he hopes to improve on most in his second season with the Dolphins.

For Padres, Fernando Tatis is worth every penny

The Padres signed Fernando Tatis to a $340 million extension. The deal should be worth it for San Diego.

J.J. Watt's possible landing spots after Texans release

Pittsburgh and Green Bay are popular potential landing spots for J.J. Watt, but a few other contenders might make more sense in 2021.

Tom Brady is the GOAT, sorry

Tom Brady haters are digging for any reason to knock the seven-time Super Bowl champ off his pedestal. It's not happening.

Comparing Brady's achievements after 40 to other sporting greats

Is Tom Brady the greatest athlete after 40 of all time? Here's a look at some of other ageless legends from history.

Players who can win first Super Bowl ring in 2021, ranked

Here's a look at nine players in Super Bowl 55 who can win their first Super Bowl ring, including former Steelers Antonio Brown and Le'Veon Bell.

NFL QB carousel: Projecting the starter for all 32 teams in 2021

It is not a stretch to say half of the NFL's 32 teams could have a different starting quarterback next season. Here's a breakdown of how the league's QB landscape might look after free agency, trades and the 2021 NFL Draft.

Will the Packers trade Aaron Rodgers?

Green Bay has no reason to trade or release Rodgers at the moment.

Aaron Rodgers' playoff record

Aaron Rodgers has a proven playoff track record, and he's trying to reach the Super Bowl for the first time in a decade Sunday.

Rams' Goff must reverse rough playoff, cold-weather stats against Packers

Jared Goff is 3-2 in the playoffs, but he'll have to better statistically and in the cold to beat Green Bay at Lambeau Field.

McVay vs. LaFleur: Inside the battle of top young coaches

Matt LaFleur was a successful offensive coordinator under Sean McVay in Los Angeles. Now their paths cross in the NFC divisional playoffs in Green Bay.

Tom Brady vs. Drew Brees: Inside the numbers

Tom Brady and Drew Brees first met in 1999. The 40-something QBs rekindle their competitive rivalry Sunday in the first of two historic matchups this season.

NFL picks, predictions for wild card weekend

In our picks and predictions for 2021 NFL wild-card weekend, Lamar Jackson leads the Ravens to a playoff win and the Steelers survive a scare from the Browns in prime time.

Ranking the NFL's 2021 playoff QBs

Sporting News ranks the 14 quarterbacks in the NFL playoffs based on this season. Who can you trust most right now?

NFL picks, predictions for Week 13

In our picks and predictions for Week 13 of the 2020 NFL season, the 49ers pull off another upset on "Monday Night Football" and the Derrick Henry-Nick Chubb duel lives up to expectations.

Week 14 CFB picks against the spread

Sporting News gives its picks for Week 14, including the matchup between surprise teams Liberty and Coastal Carolina.

BYU's best intentions with committee in mind

BYU beefed up its schedule by scheduling Coastal Carolina on Saturday. Could that influence the CFP to move the Cougars up?

Second College Football Playoff rankings released

The College Football Playoff released the second set of rankings Tuesday. Sporting News breaks down the rankings.

UC's chances to make the Playoff

Cincinnati stayed at No. 7 in the College Football Playoff rankings, but the Bearcats' Playoff hopes are better than you think.

Tom Herman's hot seat, Urban Meyer's candidacy fuel Texas rumors

Sporting News looks at Tom Herman, Texas, and the likelihood that Urban Meyer could emerge as a candidate for the job in 2021.

Packers-49ers shows how COVID-19 could impact season on the field

Did the NFL make the right decision by allowing the Packers and 49ers to play Thursday night? The game opened the season's second half, which will be clouded by COVID-19.

Trevor Lawrence tests positive for COVID-19

The school confirmed the test Thursday night.

MLB should build on fantastic playoff schedule

The MLB playoffs have an opportunity to pull in casual fans with a loaded first-round schedule.

Browns' new ground-and-pound offense is up and running

Baker Mayfield and Odell Beckham Jr. make the headlines, but the Browns' success hinges on a 1-2 running game that dominated in Week 2.