New defensive alignment and returning Tyler Bilodeau lift UCLA past Washington

Alan Rothenberg, a pivotal figure in the development of soccer in the United States, discussed the growth of the sport, the upcoming 2026 World Cup finals, and the concept of dynamic pricing for tickets. He emphasized that fans will find ways to attend major events despite any political challenges that may arise.

Cal Poly has appointed Tim Skipper, the former interim head coach at UCLA, as the new head coach for the Mustangs football program. This announcement was made by the university located in San Luis Obispo, California, marking a significant transition for Skipper as he takes on a leadership role at the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) level.

The Big Ten Championship game is set, with Ohio State and Indiana emerging as the top contenders after the conclusion of the regular season. Advanced statistical rankings have been released, showcasing the performance metrics of the teams leading up to this pivotal matchup.

The FIFA World Cup draw took place in Washington, D.C., with significant anticipation surrounding the event, particularly for Tony Popovic's Socceroos as they prepare for the upcoming tournament. David Squires provided a cartoonist's perspective on the draw, highlighting its complexity and the challenges faced by teams.

Michigan State punter has been awarded the title of Big Ten Punter of the Year, recognizing his exceptional performance throughout the season. This accolade highlights his contributions to the team's success and showcases his skills in a competitive conference.

UCLA football faced a challenging early signing period without a permanent head coach, yet managed to navigate this situation without significant setbacks, demonstrating resilience in its recruiting efforts.

UCLA's football program experienced mixed results on early signing day, concluding with a 12-player class, as stated by general manager Khary Darlington, who indicated potential for growth in the recruiting class.

Tim Skipper, who served as the interim head coach for UCLA football, has been appointed as the head coach for Cal Poly's football program at the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) level, as reported by ESPN's Pete Thamel. This transition marks a significant step for Skipper following his tenure at UCLA, where he navigated a challenging season.