Kirk Herbstreit makes scheduling plea to top teams amid CFP drama

Mauricio Pochettino expressed optimism regarding the U.S. Men's National Team (USMNT) following their draw in Group D for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where they will face Paraguay, Australia, and a UEFA playoff team. This marks the U.S.'s second time hosting the tournament, with high expectations from fans and analysts alike.

UFC bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili and UFC flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja are set to defend their titles at UFC 323, taking place on December 6, 2025, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The event is highly anticipated as both fighters are considered among the best in their divisions, with intense staredowns leading up to the match.

The Iowa State football program has appointed Jimmy Rogers, formerly the head coach at Washington State, as the new head coach following the departure of Matt Campbell to Penn State. This transition comes after Iowa State concluded its 2025 season with a third consecutive victory, marking a significant change in leadership for the Cyclones.

The Colorado Rockies, having finished last in Major League Baseball last season with a record of 119 losses, are undergoing a significant transformation under new general manager Josh Byrnes, previously of the Los Angeles Dodgers. This change comes after seven consecutive losing seasons and a desperate need for improvement.

Ernie Johnson, the beloved host of 'Inside the NBA', has been named the guest picker for ESPN's 'College GameDay' in Atlanta, joining Rece Davis and Kirk Herbstreit for the special appearance. This announcement was made via the show's social media accounts, highlighting Johnson's crossover appeal in sports broadcasting.

Billy Donovan, head coach of the Chicago Bulls, stated he has no knowledge of any trade discussions involving Giannis Antetokounmpo, despite ongoing rumors linking the star player to various teams, including the Knicks and the Bulls. Reports suggest the Bulls were offered a chance to acquire Antetokounmpo but declined the opportunity.

MLB free agency is currently active, with teams negotiating to sign various players, including veteran pitcher Ranger Suarez, who is reportedly being pursued by the New York Mets among other teams outside the Philadelphia Phillies.

Trade speculation is growing around Washington Nationals pitcher MacKenzie Gore, with ESPN's Buster Olney reporting that he is likely to be traded ahead of the MLB winter meetings. This development comes as the Nationals evaluate their roster and potential moves to improve the team's future prospects.