Things haven’t gone to plan for LSU football quarterback Garrett Nussmeier, and he may have hit his lowest point with the Tigers on Saturday, Nov. 8 against Alabama.

Nussmeier, a Heisman Trophy candidate entering the season, was benched by interim coach Frank Wilson in the third quarter against the Crimson Tide for sophomore Michael Van Buren. The projected first-round pick entering the season entered the matchup having lost three of his last four games before his coach, Brian Kelly, was fired.

Nussmeier hasn’t looked himself this season after passing for an SEC-leading 4,052 yards in 2024. LSU spent big in the transfer portal ahead to get him weapons to throw to in 2025, but it hasn’t paid off.

Here’s what to know of Van Buren, a backup quarterback with rare starting experience in the SEC.

Who is LSU backup QB Michael Van Buren?

Van Buren, a sophomore transfer from Mississippi State, started eight games for the Bulldogs last season as a true freshman.

Van Buren showed flashes of potential in 2024, passing for 1,886 yards with 11 touchdowns to seven interceptions, adding five rushing scores. He threw for three touchdowns in back-to-back games against Georgia and Texas A&M last season.

Michael Van Burn 247 rating

A four-star recruit in 2024, Van Buren flipped his commitment from Oregon to Mississippi State in 2023 after Jeff Lebby was hired by the Bulldogs. He opted to transfer ahead of the 2025 season after Blake Shapen returned for Mississippi State.

Van Buren was the No. 15-ranked quarterback and No. 239 player nationally in 2023, according to 247Sports’ Composite rankings. He attended St. Frances Academy High School and hails from Bowie, Maryland.

Van Buren led St. Frances, a high school powerhouse, to the 2022 high school national championship against IMG Academy, although IMG opted out of the game.

Michael Van Buren stats

Here are Van Buren’s year-by-year stats in college.

• 2024 (Mississippi State): 140 of 256 passing (54.7%) for 1,886 yards with 11 touchdowns to seven interceptions; 69 carries for negative-12 yards with five touchdowns
• 2025 (LSU): 13 of 16 passing (81.3%) for 172 yards with two touchdowns; nine carries for 23 yards with a touchdown

The Winter Olympics are several months away, but the U.S. women’s hockey team is showing good signs against archrival Canada in the Rivalry Series.

The USA won 6-1 on Saturday, Nov. 8 in Buffalo, two days after winning 4-1 in the opening game in Cleveland.

They have been getting balanced scoring – and a lot of it.

The first game was the Abbey Murphy (three goals) and Taylor Heise (four points) show.

Saturday night was the Hilary Knight show as the U.S. captain and four-time Olympian had a hat trick.

Murphy played a role again by intercepting a clearing attempt from Canada goalie Kayle Osborne and feeding Kelly Pannek for the second goal of the game.

So did Heise, who faked a shot and made a drop pass on a goal by Hayley Scamurra.

Laila Edwards, 21, had an impressive goal and two assists on Saturday to give her four points in two games.

Canada has been limited to one goal in each game. Gwyneth Philips made eight saves in the first period to keep the game scoreless and allowed only a goal to Marie-Philip Poulin.

“We saw a lot of great production between Hilary Knight’s hat trick and a strong showing from Laila Edwards, anchored by a strong performance in net,’ USA coach John Wroblewski said. ‘We look forward to building off these two games in December and beyond.”

The series will take a break before resuming in Edmonton, Alberta, on Dec. 10 and 13. The Olympics are in February.

USA TODAY provided live updates from the second game of the Rivalry Series. Here are the highlights:

USA vs Canada highlights

Final score: USA 6, Canada 1

The Americans have outscored Canada 10-2 in the first two games of the Rivalry Series. The USA has back-to-back hat tricks: Abbey Murphy in Game 1 and Hilary Knight in the second game.

Hilary Knight hat trick

Canada pulled Kayle Osborne for an extra skater. Hilary Knight scores an empty-netter for her third goal of the game. 6-1 USA.

USA’s Hayley Scamurra scores

Taylor Heise fakes a shot and makes a drop pass to Hayley Scamurra, who scores before her hometown fans to make it 5-1.

USA’s Hilary Knight scores again

Knight scores her second power-play goal of the night. She’s alone near the crease and tucks in a solid cross-ice pass from Laila Edwards.

USA back on power play

Canada captain Marie-Philip Poulin is called for boarding.

USA’s Laila Edwards scores

Laila Edwards takes advantage of a Renata Fast turnover, skates into the zone, does some nice stickhandling and rips an even nicer shot for a 3-1 U.S. lead.

USA pressing

After being outshot all game, the USA now leads 26-24 in shots.

Third period underway

2-1 USA.

Tracking the Olympic roster

USA Hockey is expected to release its rosters for the Olympics and Paralympics at the end of December or early January.

There are 30 players on the Rivalry Series roster, which means U.S. women’s coach John Wroblewski will have to cut seven players. But don’t ask him about it, because he’s not anywhere close to deciding which seven players won’t make the cut.

“A week ago, Layla and Kirsten Simms weren’t even practicing at Wisconsin. They weren’t going to be here,” he said after Thursday’s game. “So we’ve really got to pump the brakes on any speak of when we’re going to trim things down.”

Edwards and Simms suffered knee injuries last month. They returned for Wisconsin’s games against Minnesota last weekend, and both scored in the Badgers’ 7-2 win Saturday. Simms also had two assists while Edwards had one.

Edwards had an assist on the Americans’ first goal Thursday night while Simms assisted on the last goal.

End of second period: USA 2, Canada 1

Both teams connect on the power play, with their Olympic veterans and captains getting the goals. Hilary Knight gave the USA a 1-0 lead and after Kelly Pannek connected, Canada’s Marie-Philip Poulin cut the U.S. lead to 2-1. Cayla Barnes made a great defensive play late to disrupt a scoring chance from Canada’s Sarah Fillier.

Shots are 22-18 Canada through two periods.

USA power play

Julia Gosling is called for holding. The USA already has a power-play goal in this period. Canada kills this one off. Kirsten Simms was stopped in close.

Canada gets one back

Marie-Philip Poulin scores off a pass from Renata Fast 14 seconds into a power play. That cuts the U.S. lead to 2-1.

USA scores again

Abbey Murphy intercepts goalie Kayle Osborne’s clearing attempt behind the net and feeds Kelly Pannek, who scores before Osborne can get back into position. 2-0 USA.

Hilary Knight gives USA the lead

The USA moves the puck around well on the power play. Megan Keller’s point shot is stopped, but Hilary Knight knocks in the rebound. Laila Edwards gets the secondary assist.

USA power play

Micah Zandee-Hart is called for holding.

Canada power play

Hayley Scamurra is called for holding. Canada was 1-for-3 on the power play in the opening game. USA kills it off. It has a couple short-handed chances.

Second period underway

Scoreless. USA is on the power play, but Canada kills off the remainder.

End of first period: USA 0, Canada 0

Not a lot of great chances in that period. Shots went high on a couple breakaways. Shots were 8-4 Canada, but the USA will have a little more than a minute of carry-over power play at the start of the second period.

USA power play

Renata Fast is called for interference for knocking Laila Edwards into goalie Gwyneth Philips. The net goes off the moorings and Philips’ mask comes off. Despite that, someone from Canada takes a shot near Philips, who is not happy.

Canada chance

Laura Stacy shoots high on a breakaway.

Abbey Murphy chance

Murphy breaks in from the blue line but her backhander goes high. She had a hat trick in the opener.

Game underway

Game 2 of the Rivalry Series has started. Gwyneth Philips in net for the USA. Kayle Osborne is in net for Canada.

When do the U.S. women and Canada play?

Game 2 of the Rivalry Series between the USA and Canada is at 6 p.m. ET on Saturday, Nov 8.

Where is the game being played?

The game is at Key Bank Center in Buffalo, New York

Where can I watch the USA-Canada Rivalry Series?

The game will air on NHL Network.

How can I stream the USA-Canada Rivalry Series?

Fubo and certain Sling TV packages carry NHL Network. Fubo offers a free trial for new subscribers. 

Watch Rivalry Series on Fubo

Team USA lineup

Team Canada lineup

Hot streak for Team USA

The U.S. women’s victory Thursday night was their third in a row against Canada, their longest streak since winning four in a row in 2023. That streak started in the title game of the world championships in Brampton, Ontario, where Hilary Knight had a hat trick to lead the Americans’ 6-3 win.

Fun fact: Neither team has ever swept the Rivalry Series.

Why is US-Canada women’s hockey rivalry so heated?

Canada and the United States are the dominant teams in the women’s game, and no one else (yet) comes close.

The teams have played each other in the final at every Olympics and world championships but two, with Canada winning five of the seven Olympic gold medals and 13 of the 24 world titles. But the U.S. women have won two of the last three world championships, including an overtime thriller in Czechia in April.

Abbey Murphy, Harvey and Heise had goals in regulation for the Americans before Tessa Janecke scored the game-winner on a tap-in.

Canada leads the Americans in all-time meetings (108-84-1). But the United States has bragging rights for winning gold in the first Olympic women’s hockey tournament, beating Canada 3-1 at the Nagano Games in 1998.

Homecoming game

“The Cleveland Queen” had a night to remember.

Laila Edwards, who grew up in Cleveland Heights, had an assist on the first U.S. goal Thursday night. She also drew the loudest cheers when she was introduced as a starter, and Hilary Knight handed over ceremonial puck drop duties to her.

The day before the game, Cleveland Cavaliers forward Larry Nance Jr. was spotted wearing Edwards’ jersey.

“This has definitely been a very special couple of days that I’m going to remember forever,” said Edwards, who had not played in her hometown since her sophomore year in high school. (She went to a Bishop Kearney High School in Rochester, New York to play hockey.)

“It’s been super fun and I’m sad it’s ending,” she added.

Saturday’s game will be a homecoming for veteran forward Hayley Scamurra, who grew up in Buffalo, and Haley Winn, who is from Rochester, which is about an hour away.

What is the Rivalry Series?

Now in its sixth season, the Rivalry Series features the U.S. and Canadian women’s national teams. This year’s edition consists of four games, the first two in the United States and the last two in Canada.

The Americans won the opener in Cleveland 4-1. After Saturday night’s game in Buffalo, the Rivalry Series will wrap up with games Dec. 10 and 13 in Edmonton, Alberta.

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL — Lionel Messi and Inter Miami are moving on in the MLS Cup Playoffs.

Messi had two goals and two assists – including the 400th of his career for club and country – and No. 3 seed Inter Miami beat No. 6 seed Nashville SC 4-0 in the decisive Game 3 of their first-round series on Saturday, Nov. 8 at Chase Stadium.

Tadeo Allende also scored twice in a three-minute span in the second half, as Inter Miami is three matches away from their first MLS Cup title.

Inter Miami will visit No. 2 FC Cincinnati in the conference semifinals, beginning Nov. 22 or 23. Every match moving forward in the MLS playoffs is single elimination.

Inter Miami was on the brink in the first round for the second straight year, but relied on their Argentine World Cup champion and captain to lead the way.

“I’m happy for the club because after what happened last year, there were lingering feelings and a fear it could happen again,” Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano said after the win. “Now, we can look ahead.”

Messi scored twice in the first half – his first coming 10 minutes into the match. He dribbled around several defenders, and connected with a left boot into the lower right corner of the net on an assist from Allende.

Messi doubled the lead in the 39th minute, connecting on a drop pass from 19-year-old Argentine Mateo Silvetti, who played on Argentina’s runner-up Under-20 World Cup team and started in place of a suspended Luis Suarez in the match.

Messi also orchestrated Allende’s goals in the second half. Messi and Jordi Alba exchanged several passes in the box before Allende scored in the 73rd minute.

Messi’s finishing touch was a through pass up the pitch to Allende in the 76th minute to register his historic assist to end the night.

“It’s crazy. Every game, you’re kinda speechless. It’s unbelievable I get to play with him,” Inter Miami defender Noah Allen said of Messi after the match. “He creates magic. It’s unreal.”

Inter Miami goalie Rocco Ríos Novo earned his first clean sheet of the postseason as Nashville missed 11 shots in the match, despite a second-half push to get back into the contest.

While Messi led the way offensively, he also received praise from Alba and Mascherano for pushing the envelope on the defensive end, as well.

“He really put on a show – both defensively and offensively,” Alba said in an Apple TV interview after the win. “… But defensively, he helped us more than anyone else.”

Added Mascherano: “How he pressed today at 38 years old, it’s crazy. I think we already know everything about Leo with the ball, but Leo without the ball, today, was impressive.”

Messi scored eight goals in a span of four matches in 22 days against Nashville – an MLS rivalry that has been one-sided since Messi joined the league.

Inter Miami beat Nashville for the 2023 Leagues Cup title and has only dropped one match against them since then (Game 2 of this series).

The MLS playoff series victory is the first for Inter Miami, which started play in 2020.

The MLS careers of Alba and Sergio Busquets, the former Barcelona stars who announced they will retire at the end of the 2025 season, will also continue during this postseason run.

“There aren’t many games left. God willing, there will be three more games, and hopefully we can win and bring joy to the fans and ourselves,” Alba said.

Messi is expected to join the Argentine national team next week for a Nov. 14 match against Angola in the African country. Mascherano acknowledged at least seven players would be away on international duty before the next playoff game.

USA TODAY Sports provided updates and highlights from the match:

Inter Miami vs. Nashville highlights

Inter Miami 4, Nashville 0: Tadeo Allende scores brace (76′)

This one is over: Tadeo Allende scores his second goal in a three-minute span, and Inter Miami will move on. Allende received an assist up the field from Messi, and finished the opportunity with ease.

Inter Miami 3, Nashville 0: Tadeo Allende scores goal (73′)

Inter Miami will move on in the MLS Cup playoffs: Tadeo Allende scores in the 73rd minute to triple the lead.

The sequence: Jordi Alba to Messi, back to Alba, and dropped off to Allende in front of the net.

Inter Miami 2, Nashville 0: Sam Surridge misses shot (56′)

Inter Miami 2, Nashville 0: Another Messi dribbling highlight (53′)

Inter Miami 2, Nashville 0: Sam Surridge goal negated (46′)

Nashville’s Sam Surridge gets tangled with Inter Miami defender Maxi Falcon, and a goal was disallowed about 30 seconds into the second half.

Inter Miami 2, Nashville 0: Halftime 

Lionel Messi scored twice (10’ and 39’) to propel Inter Miami to a 2-0 lead in the first half of Game 3 against Nashville. Can he get a hat trick in the second half?

Inter Miami 2, Nashville 0: Messi misses free kick before halftime (45’+2′)

Messi lined up for a free kick, but Nashville goalkeeper Joe Willis caught the shot attempt. Messi drew a yellow card after colliding into Walker Zimmerman in the sequence.

Inter Miami 2, Nashville 0: Messi scores second goal (39′)

Messi has a brace, scoring his second goal just before halftime on an assist from 19-year-old Argentine Mateo Silvetti.

Inter Miami 1, Nashville 0: Baltazar Rodriguez misses shot (32′)

Inter Miami performed a set piece in the 32nd minute: Messi sent a pass to Rodriguez, who was just off the mark on his shot from outside the box.

Inter Miami 1, Nashville 0: Messi’s free kick hits Najar (30′)

Inter Miami 1, Nashville 0: Messi nutmegs Edvard Tagseth (19′)

The crowd erupted when Messi pulled off a nutmeg on Nashville’s Edvard Tagseth in the 19th minute. The exchanges from both players after the sequence was comical, too.

Inter Miami 1, Nashville 0: Messi scores goal (10′)

Ten minutes in, and No. 10 has scored: Messi connects on a left boot into the lower right corner of the net to give Inter Miami an early lead.

Inter Miami 0, Nashville 0: Why is Luis Suárez not playing?

Inter Miami will play without Uruguayan striker Luis Suárez, who was suspended for the match and fined for kicking Nashville’s Andy Najar in Game 2. He was seen on the Inter Miami bench during the opening minutes of the game broadcast.

Inter Miami 0, Nashville SC 0: We’re underway (1′)

The match has begun shortly after 8:15 p.m. ET.

Messi arrives for Game 3

What time is Game 3 between Inter Miami vs. Nashville?

The match begins at 8 p.m. ET (7 p.m. CT, 9 p.m. in Argentina) at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, FL.

Where to watch Inter Miami vs. Nashville Game 3 on TV/live stream?

The match will be available on MLS Season Pass via Apple TV.

Is Messi playing tonight?

Yes, Messi is a starter and will play tonight.

Inter Miami vs. Nashville starting lineups

Mateo Silvetti, a 19-year-old who played on Argentina’s runner-up Under-20 World Cup team, earned the start in place of Suarez on the front line for Inter Miami alongside Messi, Tadeo Allende and Baltazar Rodriguez.

Inter Miami vs. Nashville prediction

Inter Miami 3, Nashville 2: Inter Miami prevails with a brace and an assist by Messi at home, but don’t expect Nashville to just bow away so easily. –Safid Deen

Who does Inter Miami-Nashville winner play next in MLS playoffs?

The winner of Inter Miami-Nashville series will face No. 2 FC Cincinnati, which beat the No. 7 Columbus Crew 2-1 in Game 3 earlier Saturday. Cincinnati would host No. 3 Inter Miami or No. 6 Nashville, whichever advances, in the conference semifinals.

Inter Miami vs. Nashville recent matches

Saturday will be the fourth match in as many weeks between Inter Miami and Nashville.

• Decision Day:Messi had a hat trick in a 5-2 win for Inter Miami at Nashville on Oct. 18 to end the regular season.
• Game 1: Messi scored twice with an assist in a 3-1 home win for Inter Miami on Oct. 24.
• Game 2: Messi scored in the final minutes, but Nashville won 2-1 at home on Nov. 1. Nashville broke an 11-game winless streak against Inter Miami in the victory.

Messi’s upcoming schedule with Inter Miami, Argentina

Messi was called up by Argentina to participate in a November 14 friendly against Angola in the African country. The match occurs during the Nov. 10-18 FIFA international window. It’s possible Messi will travel for the match, even if Inter Miami advances to the next round of the playoffs.

MLS Cup playoff schedule

• Nov. 22-23: Conference semifinals
• Nov. 29-30: Conference finals
• Dec. 6: MLS Cup Final

Inter Miami vs. Nashville betting odds

Here are the betting odds for tonight’s match during regulation, according to BETMGM.

• Inter Miami: -165
• Draw: +350
• Nashville: +340
• Over/under goals: 3.5 goals

The muddy ACC football standings became even muddier on Saturday, Nov. 8.

After No. 11 Virginia (No. 14 in College Football Playoff) and No. 15 Louisville (No. 15 CFP) were upset by Wake Forest and Cal, respectively, there are now five teams with one loss or fewer in ACC play. Louisville and Miami have two losses in conference play.

Duke, who has a 5-4 record and suffered a rough loss to independent UConn on Nov. 8, still has a shot at reaching the College Football Playoff with a 4-1 record in ACC play, as wild as it sounds. It seems more and more likely for the ACC to only put one team into the 12-team CFP, coming down to whoever wins the conference title game.

Here’s a look at the ACC standings after Virginia and Louisville’s losses after Week 11:

ACC football standings after Week 11

Here’s a full look at the ACC standings after Week 11 of the college football season.

• T-1. Georgia Tech (8-1, 5-1 ACC)
• T-1. Virginia (8-2, 5-1 ACC)
• T-1. Southern Methodist (7-3, 5-1 ACC)
• T-1. Pittsburgh (7-2, 5-1 ACC)
• 5. Duke (5-4, 4-1 ACC)
• 6. Louisville (7-2, 4-2 ACC)
• 7. Miami (7-2, 3-2 ACC)
• T-8. Wake Forest (6-3, 3-3 ACC)
• T-8. California (6-4, 3-3 ACC)
• 10. Clemson (4-5, 3-4 ACC)
• T-11. North Carolina State (5-4, 2-3 ACC)
• T-11. Virginia Tech (3-6, 2-3 ACC)
• T-11. North Carolina (4-5, 2-3 ACC)
• 14. Stanford (3-7, 2-5 ACC)
• 15. Florida State (4-5, 1-5 ACC)
• 16. Syracuse (3-7, 1-6 ACC)
• 17. Boston College (1-9, 0-6 ACC)

Roll Tide Roll.

Thanks to a late fourth-quarter fumble caused by Yhonzae Pierre, No. 4 Alabama (No. 4 in College Football Playoff) continued to roll through the Southeastern Conference with a defensive 20-9 win over LSU on Saturday, Nov. 8 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

Stream Alabama vs. LSU football live with Fubo (free trial)

With its win, No. 4 Alabama has now won eight consecutive games, giving Kalen DeBoer’s a shot at making the SEC championship game and, potentially more. 

A low-scoring game through the midway point of the second quarter, Alabama’s offense kicked it into high gear to end the first half, as the Crimson Tide scored two touchdowns in the final 9:25, including a 13-yard touchdown pass from Ty Simpson to Ryan Williams just before they went into the locker room.

LSU interim head coach Frank Wilson benched Garrett Nussiemer in the third quarter, replacing him with backup Michael Van Burden. The Tigers weren’t able to overcome numerous self-inflicted wounds on offense despite a stellar night from their defense.

Simpson struggled at times throughout the night, especially with the deep ball. The Heisman Trophy candidate completed 21 of 35 passes (60%) for 277 yards and a touchdown, but also lost a fumble on the first play of the fourth quarter. 

The win for the Crimson Tide extends its nation leading home win streak to 17 straight, and its record at home under DeBoer to 12-0. USA TODAY Sports provided live updates, stats and highlights from the Crimson Tide Week 11 win over the Tigers. Follow below: 

Alabama vs LSU football live score

This section will be updated during the game

Alabama vs LSU football updates

Final: Alabama 20, LSU 9

It wasn’t pretty, but Alabama slogged through a defensive-dominant game vs. LSU to emerge victorious, 20-9. The Crimson Tide return to Bryant-Denny Stadium in Week 12 to take on Oklahoma.

Alabama forces fumble

Yhonzae Pierre comes up with his second big play of the night, and this time it results in a turnover. The Alabama linebacker came around the side and knocked the ball out of the hand of Michael Van Buren for the fumble at the end of a sack, which was recovered by London Simmons.

Alabama takes over on offense.

Alabama extends lead with FG

Conor Talty redeems himself from an earlier miss in the game with a successful 44-yard field goal to push Alabama’s lead over LSU to a two-score game, at 20-9. Those are the first points for the Crimson Tide since Ty Simpson connected with Ryan Williams for a 13-yard touchdown just before halftime.

Alabama now leads LSU 20-9 with 4:25 remaining in the fourth quarter.

Alabama punts

Alabama has gone cold on offense, as Kalen DeBoer sends out the punt unit for the second time in the Crimson Tide’s last three drives. The Crimson Tide’s defense got some help from its special teams unit, however, as the ball is spotted at LSU’s own 2-yard line.

LSU cuts deficit to one score with FG

LSU is not going away that easily.

The Tigers make it a one-score game at 17-9 against Alabama with 10:28 remaining in the fourth quarter after Damon Ramos makes the 37-yard field goal attempt. LSU had made it all the way down to the Alabama 7-yard line, but a false start penalty and a 10-yard sack on Michael Van Buren sent the Tigers backwards.

An important drive is coming up for Ty Simpson and Alabama’s offense after Simpson turned the ball over on the first play of the fourth quarter.

Alabama sacks Michael Van Buren

LT Overton comes up with the second sack of the night for the Alabama defense on first-and-goal from the 12-yard line, as he sacks Michael Van Buren for a loss of 10 yards to make it second-and-goal from the Crimson Tide’s 22-yard line.

LSU sacks Ty Simpson, forces fumble

LSU opens the fourth quarter with its first takeaway on defense, as Harold Perkins sacks Ty Simpson and forces the ball out of the hands of the Alabama quarterback. The Tigers linebacker recovers his own forced fumble and gives the ball back to Michael Van Buren and the LSU offense deep in Alabama territory, down 17-6.

Alabama takes lead over LSU into fourth quarter

Fours up in Tuscaloosa, as Alabama takes a 17-6 lead over LSU into the fourth quarter. The Crimson Tide will start the fourth quarter with a second-and-9 at their own 48-yard line following a 1-yard carry from Daniel Hill.

Alabama is 15 minutes away from picking up its eighth consecutive win of the season. Ty Simpson is 17 of 28 passing for 244 yards and a touchdown, while Michael Van Buren is 2 of 4 for 16 yards since he came in for Garrett Nussmeier during LSU’s last drive.

End of third quarter: Alabama 17, LSU 6

LSU false start forces to punt

LSU’s communication struggles on offense continue on fourth-and-1, as offensive lineman Bauer Sharp jumps before the snap. The 5-yard penalty sends Michael Van Buren and the Tigers’ offense off the field, and sends a punt unit on.

It’s the second big communication error by the Tigers in as many plays, and kills a drive that showed a slight pulse from LSU’s offense after Garrett Nussmeier was benched.

Michael Van Buren takes over for Garrett Nussmeier

As the LSU offense heads back onto the field, the Tigers do so with a new quarterback, as backup quarterback Michael Van Buren is in for Garrett Nussmeier.

Alabama sacks Garrett Nussiemer, LSU hits FG attempt

Alabama dials the pressure on third-and-8 with the three-man rush to Garrett Nussmeier, who was sacked for a loss of 14 yards by Yhonzae Pierre. Nussmeier attempted to get away from the rush, but he turned in the wrong direction and into the diving hands of Pierre.

Nussiemer’s sack sends out the LSU field goal unit. The Tigers cut their deficit to 17-6 after Damian Ramos hit the 44-yard field goal attempt. LSU has yet to score a touchdown on the night.

Nic Anderson injury update

LSU will be down a man at wide receiver, as Nic Anderson is carted off the field after being tended to by LSU trainers on the sidelines. Anderson appeared to have gone down weirdly at the conclusion of a 16-yard catch when he was tackled by two Alabama defenders.

End of first half: Alabama 17, LSU 3

Alabama vs LSU halftime stats

Here’s a look at how Alabama and LSU stack up statistically at halftime, with the Crimson Tide holding a 17-3 lead:

• Total yards: Alabama 244, LSU 131
• Passing yards: Alabama 210, LSU 76
• Rushing yards: LSU 55, Alabama 34
• Yards per play: Alabama 7.4, LSU 4.9
• Third downs: Alabama 2-6, LSU 2-7

Alabama scores quick TD before halftime

Alabama offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb is in his bag.

One play after Ty Simpson connected with Lotzeir Brooks for a 53-yard catch on the deep route, the Heisman Trophy candidate finds Ryan Williams in the end zone for a 13-yard touchdown pass. It’s an impressive drive by Alabama, as Simpson threw back-to-back dots into the hands of his receivers to get points on the board before halftime.

The scoring drive was three plays for 66 yards and took just 34 seconds of game time.

Alabama misses field goal attempt

Alabama is unable to extend its lead over LSU to two scores, as Conor Talty’s 26-yard field goal attempt goes wide left. It’s an important series coming up for the Crimson Tide’s defense, as they will look to get a stop to keep their seven-point lead intact as LSU begins the second half with the ball.

Aaron Anderson injury report

ESPN’s Molly McGrath reports that LSU wide receiver Aaron Anderson hyperextended his left elbow on the Tigers’ previous offensive drive and that LSU’s medical staff has put a brace on his elbow. He is expected to return to the game.

Daniel Hill TD puts Alabama in front

The first touchdown of the night goes to Alabama and Daniel Hill, who fights his way through a group of LSU defenders to get into the end zone. It’s a 4-yard rushing touchdown for the sophomore running back, and his second rushing score of the season.

The big play of the drive was a 33-yard pass down the left side of the field on second-and-3 when Simpson found his tight end, Josh Cuevas, in stride. The scoring drive was seven plays for 75 yards and took 3:02 off the game clock.

It’s 10-3 Alabama with 9:25 remaining in the second quarter.

LSU ties game with 37-yard FG

Wilson elects to take the field goal out of the injury timeout on the field for Aaron Anderson. Damian Ramos hits the 37-yard field goal to tie the game at 3-3 against Alabama with 12:27 remaining in the second quarter.

Both teams have exchanged field goals in the first half, as both teams’ offenses continue to settle in.

LSU facing fourth down decision

LSU interim head coach Frank Wilson faces an early big decision: go for it on a fourth-and-2 at the Alabama 20-yard line or take the field goal. Before heading off the injury tent, Aaron Anderson caught a 7-yard pass from Garrett Nussiemer to make it fourth-and-short for the Tigers.

End of first quarter: Alabama 3, LSU 0

Alabama gets on board with field goal

Despite the good starting field position, Alabama goes backward, setting up a 45-yard field goal attempt from kicker Conor Talty. His kick is true, however, sailing through the middle to give the Crimson Tide the first points of the game.

Alabama forces turnover

What looked like a huge LSU chunk play on third-and-5 from the Tigers’ 11 instead turns into a turnover, courtesy of the Alabama defense. Linebacker Nikhai Hill-Green punched the ball out of tight end Bauer Sharp and recovers it deep in LSU territory.

Alabama punts

The Crimson Tide get a nice chunk play off a 33-yard connection between Ty Simpson and Germie Bernard out to the Alabama 39-yard line, but follow that up with three straight incompletions (including two throwaways) to end the drive. Following a 40-yard punt by Blake Doud, LSU will take over at its own 7-yard line.

LSU misses field goal attempt

Another bend-don’t-break effort by Alabama’s defense sets LSU up with a field goal attempt from the Crimson Tide 13-yard line. But Tigers kicker Damian Ramos, who entered the game 14 of 17 on field goal attempts, kicked it wide right to negate the scoring opportunity.

Alabama turns ball over on downs

Alabama tries to catch LSU off guard with a fake on fourth-and-1, as Jam Miller takes the direct snap, but LSU linebacker West Weeks is all over it and tackles Miller for no gain. It was an interesting play-calling sequence by the Crimson Tide, as they called three consecutive run plays.

LSU takes over at its own 39-yard line.

Alabama starts on offense

After LSU won the toss and deferred the opening kickoff to the second half, Alabama gets its night started on offense with a 25-yard kickoff return from Lotzeir Brooks. Underway in Tuscaloosa!

Pregame

Dave Roberts at Alabama-LSU game

World Series champion manager Dave Roberts is in attendance for Alabama vs. LSU in Tuscaloosa. According to The Tuscaloosa News’ Colin Gay, the Los Angeles Dodgers manager is friends with Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer.

Ryan Williams status vs LSU

Ryan Williams looks to be a go against LSU. The Crimson Tide sophomore was removed from the final SEC injury report, which was released 90 minutes before the game on Saturday, Nov. 8, after being listed as ‘probable’ on the previous three.

What was Alabama football ranked in first CFP ranking?

Who is LSU football’s interim head coach vs Alabama?

Ty Simpson Heisman Trophy odds 

The first-year Alabama starting quarterback enters his Week 11 start vs. LSU with the third-best odds on BetMGM (+350) to win the 2025 Heisman Trophy. 

What time does Alabama vs LSU start?

• Date: Saturday, Nov. 8
• Start time: 7:30 p.m. ET

Alabama vs. LSU will kick off at 7:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, Nov. 8 from Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

What TV channel is Alabama vs LSU on today?

• TV: ABC
• Streaming: ESPN app | Fubo (free trial)

Alabama vs. LSU will be broadcast nationally on ABC in Week 11 of the 2025 college football season. Sean McDonough and Greg McElroy will broadcast the game from the booth at Bryant-Denny Stadium, with Molly McGrath reporting from the sidelines.

Streaming options for the game include the ESPN app (with a TV login) and Fubo, which carries ABC and offers a free trial to new subscribers.

Stream Alabama vs. LSU football live with Fubo (free trial)

How to watch college football on ESPN, ABC without YouTube TV

Disney-owned channels such as ABC and the ESPN family of networks are no longer available on YouTube TV after it and Disney were unable to agree to new contract terms.

One way college football fans who subscribe to YouTube TV can stream games on Disney-owned channels is via Fubo, which carries ABC and the ESPN family of networks and offers a free trial to potential subscribers.

Alabama vs LSU predictions

Colin Gay, The Tuscaloosa News: Alabama 32, LSU 21

‘Who knows what LSU could look like with interim coach Frank Wilson? With two weeks to prepare for Alabama, the Tigers could lead with one of the better pass offenses and pass defenses in the SEC. But, especially facing an Alabama pass rush that is finding its footing, and the best passing offense that it has faced all season, LSU has a tall task, one that should continue the Crimson Tide’s SEC success.’

Chase Goodbread, The Tuscaloosa News: Alabama 23, LSU 17

‘A lower-scoring affair could be in order. LSU QB Garrett Nussmeier has struggled to be effective behind an underperforming offensive line. A full house at Bryant-Denny Stadium won’t make it any easier for him. But it likely won’t be an easy night for Alabama’s offense, either.’

Alabama schedule 2025

Here’s a look at Alabama’s 2025 schedule, including past scores and available kickoff and TV channel information:

• Saturday, Aug. 30: Florida State 31, Alabama 17
• Saturday, Sept. 6: Alabama 73, ULM 0
• Saturday, Sept. 13: Alabama 38, Wisconsin 14
• Saturday, Sept. 20: BYE
• Saturday, Sept. 27: Alabama 24, No. 5 Georgia Tech
• Saturday, Oct. 4: Alabama 30, No. 16 Vanderbilt 14 *
• Saturday, Oct. 11: Alabama 27, No. 14 Missouri 24 *
• Saturday, Oct. 18: Alabama 37, No. 11 Tennessee 20 *
• Saturday, Oct. 25: Alabama 29, South Carolina 22 *
• Saturday, Nov. 1: BYE
• Saturday, Nov. 8: vs. LSU * | 7:30 p.m. | ABC (Fubo)
• Saturday, Nov. 15: vs. No. 12 Oklahoma * | 3:30 p.m. ET | ABC (Fubo)
• Saturday, Nov. 22: vs. Eastern Illinois | 2 p.m. ET | SEC Network+
• Saturday, Nov. 29: at Auburn *

* Denotes SEC game

LSU schedule 2025

Here’s a look at LSU’s 2025 schedule, including past scores and available kickoff and TV channel information:

• Saturday, Aug. 30: LSU 17, No. 4 Clemson 10
• Saturday, Sept. 6: LSU 23, Louisiana Tech 7
• Saturday, Sept. 13: LSU 20, Florida 10
• Saturday, Sept. 20: LSU 56, Southeastern Louisiana 10
• Saturday, Sept. 27: No. 13 Ole Miss 24, LSU 19 *
• Saturday, Oct. 4: BYE
• Saturday, Oct. 11: LSU 20, South Carolina 10 *
• Saturday, Oct. 18: No. 17 Vanderbilt 31, LSU 24 *
• Saturday, Oct. 25: No. 3 Texas A&M 49, LSU 25 *
• Saturday, Nov. 1: BYE
• Saturday, Nov. 8: at No. 4 Alabama * | 7:30 p.m. ET | ABC (Fubo)
• Saturday, Nov. 15: vs. Arkansas * | 12:45 p.m. ET | SEC Network (Fubo)
• Saturday, Nov. 22: vs. Western Kentucky
• Saturday, Nov. 29: at No. 12 Oklahoma *

* Denotes SEC game

Major League Baseball continued to wrap up the 2025 season, releasing more of its end-of-year awards.

The MLB announced its American League Silver Sluggers Friday, Nov. 7, naming the best hitters at each position. The National League Silver Sluggers were announded on Nov. 6.

The list of finalists was stacked with talented players, but some of the winners, such as Cal Raleigh of the Seattle Mariners, could be considered the obvious choice, considering the record-breaking season he had.

Raleigh finished the 2025 regular season with 60 home runs, 125 RBIs and 14 stolen bases in 159 games played. He had a .247 batting average and struck out 188 times. His 60 homers were the most by a catcher and the most by a switch-hitter in major league history.

Here’s every 2025 Silver Slugger recipient from the American League:

2025 American League Silver Slugger winners

*-all finalists listed; winners are bolded

First base

• Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Toronto Blue Jays
• Nick Kurtz, Athletics
• Vinnie Pasquantino, Kansas City Royals

Second base

• Jazz Chisholm Jr., New York Yankees
• Brandon Lowe, Tampa Bay Rays
• Jorge Polanco, Seattle Mariners

Third base

• Alex Bregman, Boston Red Sox
• Junior Caminero, Tampa Bay Rays
• José Ramírez, Cleveland Guardians

Shortstop

• Bo Bichette, Toronto Blue Jays
• Jeremy Peña, Houston Astros
• Bobby Witt Jr., Kansas City Royals

Outfield

• Cody Bellinger, New York Yankees
• Byron Buxton, Minnesota Twins
• Riley Greene, Detroit Tigers
• Aaron Judge, New York Yankees
• Julio Rodríguez, Seattle Mariners
• George Springer, Toronto Blue Jays

Catcher

• Shea Langeliers, Athletics
• Salvador Perez, Kansas City Royals
• Cal Raleigh, Seattle Mariners

Designated hitter

• Yandy Díaz, Tampa Bay Rays
• Brent Rooker, Athletics
• George Springer, Toronto Blue Jays

Utility

• Maikel Garcia, Kansas City Royals
• Zach McKinstry, Detroit Tigers
• Ben Rice, New York Yankees

Team of the Year

• New York Yankees
• Seattle Mariners
• Toronto Blue Jays

• In the wake of Thursday’s loss, the Raiders announced they fired special teams coordinator Tom McMahon.
• A blocked punt in the third quarter led to the Broncos’ go-ahead field goal to make it 10-7.
• With 4:30 left in the fourth quarter, Raiders kicker Daniel Carlson missed a 48-yard field goal that would have tied the game 10-10.

Week 10 of the 2025 NFL season started off with an AFC West tilt in Denver on ‘Thursday Night Football.’ After a game that featured nearly as many first downs (20) as points, the Broncos earned a 10-7 win over the Las Vegas Raiders.

That three-point margin of victory loomed large for the Raiders, especially with special teams mistakes.

A blocked punt in the third quarter led to the Broncos’ go-ahead field goal to make it 10-7. With 4:30 left in the fourth quarter, Raiders kicker Daniel Carlson missed a 48-yard field goal that would have tied the game 10-10.

In the wake of that loss, the Raiders announced they fired special teams coordinator Tom McMahon.

‘Earlier today, we made the tough decision to relieve Tom McMahon of his duties as special teams coordinator,’ coach Pete Carroll said in a team statement. ‘I have a great amount of respect for Tom and the work that he has done in this league, but we have decided to move in a different direction.

‘Derius Swinton II will assume special teams coordinator duties on an interim basis and we are excited to attack the second half of this season with outstanding intent and purpose. We are grateful for Tom and his work here with the Raiders and wish him nothing but the best moving forward.’

Thursday’s game was the latest in a season of special teams mistakes under McMahon. A blocked field goal against the Chicago Bears in the final minute of regulation ensured a 25-24 Raiders loss. A missed extra point on the Raiders’ first touchdown against Jacksonville made a difference in a 23-23 tie after regulation that became a 30-29 loss in overtime.

Swinton II will become a special teams coordinator for the first time since 2021 with the Los Angeles Chargers under Brandon Staley. A former safety in college, he also held the special teams coordinator position in 2016 with the San Francisco 49ers.

Las Vegas is back home in Week 11 for a ‘Monday Night Football’ matchup against the Dallas Cowboys.

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The Orlando Pride move one step closer to repeating as NWSL champions.

The Pride, the No. 4 seed, protected home-field advantage and defeated the fifth-seeded Seattle Reign FC, 2-0, in Friday’s 2025 NWSL playoff quarterfinal match in Orlando. The Pride will face either the top-seeded Kansas City Current or No. 8 Gotham FC in the semifinals.

Midfielder Haley McCutcheon got the Pride on the board in the 21st minute and midfielder Luana iced the match with her first career NWSL goal, a stoppage goal off a penalty kick. Luana was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma in April 2024 and finished chemotherapy last month.

‘One year ago, I didn’t even know if I would be playing again and today I am here,’ an emotional Luana said after the quarterfinal win. ‘Nothing is impossible.’

Veteran defender Lauren Barnes played her final game for the Reign. The 36-year-old retires after setting NWSL records for matches played (252), matches started (240) and minutes played (21,110).

2025 NWSL PLAYOFFS: Full bracket, schedule

Catch up with USA TODAY Sports’ highlights and results of the NWSL quarterfinal match between the Orlando Pride and Seattle Reign:

90’+8′ – Pride 2, Reign 0

Pride forward Marta sprinted 100 yards to the opposite side of the field before being fouled in the penalty area by Seattle’s Samantha Meza. Marta conceded the penalty kick to fellow Brazilian Luana, who completed her final round of chemotherapy last month after being diagnosed with  Hodgkin’s lymphoma in April 2024. Luana scored in the top left corner to put the Pride up 2-0 in stoppage time.

90’+4′ – Pride 1, Reign 0

Reign forward Emeri Adames’ shot on goal was saved.

90′- Pride 1, Reign 0

Seattle midfielder Sally Menti’s shot is saved in the top left corner by Pride goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse.

76′ – Pride 1, Reign 0

Reign midfielder Maddie Mercado was close to scoring an equalizer for Seattle, but Pride goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse continued her impressive night with a kick save to keep Seattle off the board. Moorhouse has six saves in the match.

62′- Pride 1, Reign 0

Seattle’s Maddie Mercado earned a free kick, but the Reign weren’t able to convert. Midfielder Sally Menti took the free kick, but hit the crossbar and Seattle players weren’t able to clean up the shot and score. The Reign have not scored on a free kick all season.

57′ – Pride 1, Reign 0

We have our first yellow card of the game. Orlando’s Rafaelle received a yellow card for a bad foul after stepping on Maddie Mercado.

Ken Griffey Jr. in the building

Seattle Mariners legend Ken Griffey Jr. is in attendance to cheer on the Reign. Griffey, who is part of the Reign ownership group, is part of the league’s newly formed, star-studded advisory board. “Together, they’ll help the league unlock new opportunities for partnership, expand fan reach and strengthen its position as both a premier professional league and a powerful cultural platform,” the league said in a statement on Thursday.

46′ – Pride 1, Reign 0

The Pride picked up right where they left off and came out of halftime firing. Reign goalkeeper Claudia Dickey saved an attempt by Pride midfielder Ally Lemos.

HT – Pride 1, Reign 0

The Pride have a 1-0 lead over the Reign heading into halftime. The Reign may have possessed the ball more (54.5% compared to Orlando’s 45.5%), but the Pride was more effective. Orlando scored one goal on four shot attempts and two shots on the goal, while Seattle is scoreless with six shot attempts. Pride goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse has three saves.

Orlando is 2-0-0 when leading at halftime in the playoffs.

Seattle Reign, Orlando Pride pays tribute to Mia Hamant

Seattle Reign and Orlando Pride players wore orange wristbands and orange ribbons in their hair in honor of 21-year-old Washington goalkeeper Mia Hamant, who died Thursday of kidney cancer.

36′ – Pride 1, Reign 0

Seattle Reign forward Jordyn Huitema’s shot on the goal was saved by Pride goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse.

21′ – Pride 1, Reign 0

Orlando Pride is on the board first with a goal from midfielder Haley McCutcheon, marking the third NWSL playoff goal of her career. The goal was assisted by forward Julie Doyle, who performed a one-touch pass after receiving a no-look reverse pass from Marta.

17′ – Pride 0, Reign 0

We are scoreless as we creep toward the 20-minute mark, but the Orlando Pride had multiple looks at the goal early. Pride defender Cori Dyke set up forward Julie Doyle with a perfect cross pass, but Doyle’s shot attempt on the goal sailed over the crossbar. The Pride have three shot attempts and one shot on goal so far, compared to one shot attempt and shot on goal for the Seattle Reign.

5′ – Pride 0, Reign 0

Reign goalkeeper Claudia Dickey saved at attempt on the goal by Orlando Pride midfielder Angelina.

NWSL quarterfinal match kicks off

We are underway at Inter&Co Stadium in Orlando, Florida!

Orlando Pride vs. Seattle Reign: Time, streaming for NWSL playoffs

• Date: Friday, Nov. 7
• Time: 8 p.m. ET (5 p.m. PT)
• Location: Inter&Co Stadium (Orlando, Florida)
• Stream: Prime Video

What time is Orlando Pride vs. Seattle Reign?

The 2025 NWSL postseason kicks off with a quarterfinal matchup between the No. 4 Orlando Pride and No. 5 Seattle Reign FC on Friday, Nov. 7 at 8 p.m. ET at Inter&Co Stadium in Orlando, Florida.

Orlando Pride, Seattle Reign take the field

The Orlando Pride and Seattle Reign are on the pitch at Inter&Co Stadium in Orlando, Florida for warmups ahead of kickoff.

Orlando Pride starting lineup

Seattle Reign starting lineup

NWSL playoff format

The 2025 NWSL playoffs consists of three rounds of single-elimination matches.

The postseason will kick off with four quarterfinal matchups with the No. 1 seed Kansas City Current hosting the No. 8 Gotham FC and the No. 4 Orlando Pride vs. No. 5 Seattle Reign FC on one side of the playoff bracket. On the other side of the bracket, the No. 2 seed Washington Spirit hosts the No. 7 Racing Louisville FC and the No. 3 Portland Thorns FC vs. No. 6 San Diego Wave FC.

The winners of each quarterfinal match will face off against each other in the semifinals. (Seeding does not reset after each round). The two semifinal winners will face off in the 2025 NWSL championship game on Saturday, Nov. 22 at 8 p.m. ET (CBS, Paramount+) at PayPal Park in San Jose, California, home of NWSL’s Bay FC and MLS’ San Jose Earthquakes.

NWSL quarterfinals playoff schedule

• Game 1: No. 1 Kansas City Current vs. No. 8 Gotham FC – Nov. 9, 12:30 p.m. ET
• Game 2: No. 4 Orlando Pride vs. No. 5 Seattle Reign FC – Nov. 7, 8 p.m. ET
• Game 3: No. 2 Washington Spirit vs. No. 7 Racing Louisville FC – Nov. 8, 12 p.m. ET
• Game 4: No. 3 Portland Thorns FC vs. No. 6 San Diego Wave FC – Nov. 9, 3 p.m. ET

When is the 2025 NWSL championship game?

The 2025 NWSL championship game will be held on Saturday, Nov. 22 at 8 p.m. ET (CBS, Paramount+) at PayPal Park in San Jose, California, home of NWSL’s Bay FC and MLS’ San Jose Earthquakes.

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WASHINGTON ‒ President Donald Trump has pardoned former baseball star Darryl Strawberry for a past tax evasion conviction, the White House said on Nov. 7, citing his sobriety and reborn Christian faith.

Strawberry, an eight-time Major League Baseball all-star outfielder, pleaded guilty in 1995 to one count of tax evasion after admitting he knowingly failed to report more than than $350,000 in income from autograph shows.

Strawberry, who was suspended three times during his MLB career for substance abuse, later served 11 months in a Florida prison in an unrelated state case for drug possession and solicitation of prostitution. He was released in 2003.

A White House official who confirmed Trump’s approval of the pardon said Strawberry, now 63 years old, had served his time and paid back the taxes he owed the government. The official said Strawberry has since found faith in Christianity and been sober for more than a decade. Strawberry has become active in ministry and started a drug recovery center that remains active, the official said.

Strawberry, an outspoken campaign supporter of Trump, expressed gratitude for the president’s pardon in a post on Instagram. ‘Thank you, President Trump, for my full pardon and for finalizing this part of my life, allowing me to be truly free and clean from all my past,’ Strawberry wrote.

Strawberry said he received a phone call at 4:37 p.m. ET on Nov. 6 and noticed a Washington, D.C., area code, adding that ‘to my amazement’ he was directed to Trump. He said the president spoke warmly about Strawberry’s peak playing career in the 1980s and ‘then he told me he was granting me a full pardon from my past.’

‘This has nothing to do with politics ‒ it’s about a Man, President Trump, caring deeply for a friend. God used him as a vessel to set me free forever!’ Strawberry said.

The 1983 National League Rookie of the Year, Strawberry is best known for his stint with the New York Mets in the 1980s before ending his career with the New York Yankees. Strawberry also played for the Los Angeles Dodgers and San Francisco Giants. He played for three World Series champion teams, including one for both New York teams.

Trump has been active with his clemency power in recent weeks.

In October, he commuted the seven-year prison sentence of former Republican New York U.S. Rep. George Santos for wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. He later pardoned Binance founder Changpeng Zhao ‒ a key supporter of the Trump family’s crypto venture who pleaded guilty to money laundering charges. On Nov. 6, Trump pardoned former Tennessee House Speaker Glen Casada and his top aide, Cade Cothren, before both men were set to report to prison to serve sentences on public corruption charges.

Reach Joey Garrison on X @joeygarrison.