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Top preseason AP rankings confirm Texas Longhorns at No. 1
Texas Longhorns have earned the prestigious No. 1 spot in the AP Top 25 preseason poll for the first time, a significant recognition ahead of what promises to be an important season under Steve Sarkisian’s leadership. In the past 20 years, only one other team has debuted as preseason No. 1, highlighting Texas’ achievement. After securing the top spot in last week’s Coaches Poll, Texas now holds the preseason AP ranking for the third year in a row. Their schedule kicks off with a challenging game against No. 3 Ohio State.
While Texas leads both polls, the competition tightens after them. The AP voters’ top five are:
- Texas (25 first-place votes)
- Penn State (23 first-place votes)
- Ohio State (11 first-place votes)
- Clemson (4 first-place votes)
- Georgia (1 first-place vote)
Oregon gains the final No. 1 vote at No. 7. Though Clemson ranks sixth in the Coaches Poll, analyst Brad Crawford believes Dabo Swinney’s team isn’t quite up to par yet. Crawford also considers Oklahoma overrated due to their tough schedule, facing seven top-25 preseason teams, linked with strong SEC opponents like Florida, LSU, and Mississippi.
The Big Ten and SEC dominate the rankings, accounting for 16 of the top 25 teams, and three conferences had teams receiving first-place votes, indicating a high level of parity across college football. The point spread illustrates this: Texas earned 316 points while Georgia, ranked No. 1 last year, had 343 points, with teams like Ole Miss close behind.
Injury and contract updates amid NFL preseason
Injury and contract issues are the last things NFL teams want during the preseason. Recent headlines involved playoff hopefuls the Steelers, Rams, and Eagles. Veteran defensive lineman Cameron Heyward hinted he might miss regular-season games if no new contract is reached. Last season, Heyward signed a deal after strong performances, and this year he’s indicated a willingness to renegotiate. Although Head Coach Mike Tomlin may not have managed the situation perfectly, Heyward’s status remains uncertain.
Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford missed practice due to back problems, thwarting hopes of his first full training camp practice. Coach Sean McVay remains optimistic but cautious, as Stafford’s back didn’t react well after a throwing session over the weekend.
The Eagles received some positive news about Pro Bowl guard Landon Dickerson, who is making minor progress after meniscus surgery and is expected to play against the Cowboys soon. If not ready, the Eagles have other options.
UFC strikes 7-year media deal with Paramount+
UFC has secured a major 7-year media rights deal with Paramount+, making it the exclusive streaming platform for all UFC numbered events and Fight Nights. The partnership allows for some fights to be simulcast on CBS. UFC President Dana White hinted at special events, possibly involving the White House.
Paramount’s Chairman and CEO David Ellison stated the deal will make UFC more accessible to fans and drive more Paramount+ subscriptions. This move effectively ends UFC’s exclusive contract with ESPN, which expires at year’s end. UFC boasts about 100 million U.S. fans and hosts more than 30 live events annually.
NFL preseason week 1 analysis
The NFL preseason has provided intriguing moments, especially from rookie quarterback Chedur Sanders with the Panthers. Despite some flashy moments and touchdown passes, Sanders remains fourth on the unofficial Cleveland depth chart, highlighting the tough competition. Analysts note improvements are needed in pocket presence and handling pressure.
Other rookies like Dillon Gabriel, returning from injury, are still under evaluation. While Sanders is a long shot to start soon, his performance keeps him in the conversation. Comparisons with number one overall pick Cameron Ward show potential but also room for growth, as coaches stress development.
On a positive note, Jeff Kerr might be the Chiefs’ answer to their left tackle needs, suggesting some surprising roster breakthroughs.
Tuesday’s sports highlights
- Blue Jays vs. Cubs at 7:07 pm on TBS
- Detroit Wings vs. Miami Heat at 7:30 pm on ESPN
- Connecticut Sun vs. Las Vegas Aces at 10:00 pm on NBA TV
Fan Take:
The preseason AP ranking of Texas Longhorns as No. 1 invigorates Fighting fans with hope for a landmark season, spotlighting the program’s rising prominence under Sarkisian. Meanwhile, the UFC and NFL injury updates emphasize the ever-changing dynamics in sports, reminding fans that talent, health, and strategic media moves will continue to shape the future of their favorite competitions.
