Born in battle and bred in the US of A, the iconic off-road brand has a colorful past, solid presence and promising future. Battle Born The Jeep brand built its reputation producing vehicles with legendary all-terrain abilities. Most iconic of all Jeep models, today's Wrangler is the descendant of the original U.S. military vehicle that spawned the Jeep name and began the legacy of extreme off-road capability. From World War II to the Rubicon Trail, let's look at the storied history of the Jeep brand and the evolution of Jeep vehicles through the years   including the newest Jeep concept vehicles created for the 2019 Easter Jeep Safari as well as the brand-new 2020 Gladiator. War Effort In 1940 the U.S. military was looking for a "light reconnaissance vehicle" to replace motorcycles and modified Model-T Ford vehicles. The list of specifications included 4-wheel drive, a 2-speed transfer case, a short wheelbase and light weight. Willys-Overland, American Bantam Car Manufacturing Company and Ford Motor Company all responded by producing prototype vehicles. The Willys prototype was the Quad, Bantam produced the Blitz Buggy and Ford produced the Model GP, also known as the Pygmy. Dawn of the Jeep All three companies were contracted to produce 70 vehicles each, followed by an additional 1,500 that were updated to meet revised specifications. Ultimately Willys was chosen as the primary manufacturer, and the Willys Quad became the MA followed by the MB, incorporating elements from both the Ford and Bantam vehicles. It's unclear exactly how the vehicle became known as the Jeep, but it may have been either the abbreviated pronunciation of "GP," the military label for "General Purpose," or from the character "Eugene the Jeep" in the Popeye cartoon. Either way, the Jeep name stuck. Contract Vehicle Willys struggled to meet the Army minimum weight specification of 2,160 pounds, and many items were removed from the Willys MA, which was a minimalist vehicle with the gearshift on the steering column, low side body cutouts, two round instrument clusters and a hand brake on the left side. Additional equipment was added to second-generation MB, resulting in a weight increase of approximately 400 pounds. Willys-Overland built more than 368,000 vehicles for the U.S. Army, and under license Ford built an additional 277,000 vehicles. Jeep CJ-2A: 1945 1949 After the war ended, Willys trademarked the name and began selling Jeeps to civilians. The first model sold in 1945 was the Willys CJ-2A, which was marketed as both a vehicle and as a mobile generator that could power farm implements and industrial tools when equipped with a power take-off unit. The CJ-2A had more equipment than the previous military models, including a tailgate, side-mounted spare tire, larger headlights and an external fuel cap. The CJ-2A is powered by a 134-cubic-inch 4-cylinder engine with a T-90A transmission, Spicer 18 transfer case and Dana full-floating front and rear axles. The CJ-3A sold from 1949-53 is very similar to the CJ-2A, with the addition of a one-piece windshield with a bottom vent, dual bottom-mounted wipers and a few mechanical updates. Willys Station Wagon: 1946 1965 The 1946 Willys Station Wagon was the first all-steel station wagon, even though it was painted to look like a woody. It has a unique fold-down tailgate, and while most station wagons of the time could carry a 4×8 sheet of plywood horizontally, the Willys Wagon could carry it vertically as well. Four-wheel drive was added in 1949. Willys-Overland Truck: 1947 1965 The 1947 Jeep Truck was the first attempt by Willys-Overland to market the Jeep brand beyond the flat-fendered, short-wheelbase CJ. The Jeep Truck has a 118-inch wheelbase and was offered as a pickup, stake bed, cab and chassis, or as a bare chassis. Two-wheel drive and 4-wheel drive were offered, and powerplant choices included the Go Devil engine, the 72-horsepower Super Hurricane and the Tornado. The Jeep Truck had minor sheet metal changes until the mid-1960s. Jeep Jeepster: 1948 1951 Willys-Overland designer Brooks Stevens created the Jeep Jeepster as an open-top phaeton-style vehicle with side curtains for weather protection, rather than roll-up windows. Intended to be a low-priced sports car, the Jeepster was very expensive when it went on sale and performance was lackluster for a sports car. The Jeepster was first offered with the Go Devil engine and later the 6-cylinder Hurricane engine, although it was never offered with 4-wheel drive. Jeep CJ-3B: 1953 1968 The Jeep CJ received extensive updates for 1953 as the CJ-3B, with a taller hood and grille to fit a larger Hurricane engine that produced 25 percent more horsepower than the previous engine. Production of the CJ-3B lasted for 15 years with more than 155,000 sold. In 1953 Henry J. Kaiser purchased Willys-Overland for $60 million, and the Kaiser Company began research and development to expand the Jeep product range. Jeep CJ-5: 1955 1983 Kaiser introduced the Jeep CJ-5 in 1955, which is slightly larger than the CJ-3B with a longer wheelbase and overall length. Based on the Korean War M-38A-1 military vehicle, the CJ-5 has softer body lines and more rounded fenders. As interest in off-road vehicles grew, the CJ-5 improved in almost every way including engines, transmissions, axles and seating comfort. In 1965 a new V6 engine produced 155 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque   nearly twice the power of the standard 4-cylinder engine. American Motors Corporation purchased Kaiser Jeep in 1970; beginning in 1973 all CJ-5s were powered by either a 304- or 360-cubic-inch V8 engine. More than 600,000 CJ-5s were produced over nearly 30 years. Jeep CJ-6: 1956 1975 For owners who wanted additional room, the Jeep CJ-6 arrived for 1956. Virtually identical in mechanicals with the CJ-5, the CJ-6 rides on a 20-inch-longer wheelbase. The CJ-6 received the same engine upgrades in 1965 and 1973 as the CJ-5. The CJ-7 replaced the CJ-6 in 1976. Jeep Wagoneer: 1963 1991 In 1962 Jeep introduced the 1963 Wagoneer, the first luxury 4-wheel-drive SUV   also designed by Brooks Stevens. The Wagoneer combines passenger car styling and comfort with 4-wheel-drive capability; it was the first 4-wheel-drive vehicle to offer an automatic transmission and independent front suspension. In 1965 the Super Wagoneer offered many luxury options as standard equipment, a single-speed transfer case and a price nearly double the base Wagoneer. In 1973 the Wagoneer became available with Quadra-Trac 4WD   the first automatic full-time 4WD system. The name was changed to Grand Wagoneer in 1984, when a Wagoneer version of the new Jeep Cherokee hit showrooms. Jeep Gladiator/J-Series Pickup: 1963 1987 The Gladiator line of full-size pickups was introduced for 1963 and shares the same platform, front-end styling and powertrain as the Wagoneer. The Gladiator J-200 has a 120-inch wheelbase and the J-300 has a 126-inch wheelbase. The names were changed to Gladiator J-2000 and J-3000 in 1965, but the Gladiator name was dropped in 1971 with the truck line continuing as the J-Series through 1987. Jeep Jeepster Commando: 1967 1973 Built on the CJ-6 platform, the Jeep Jeepster Commando is a sportier model designed to appeal as a leisure-time 4-wheel-drive vehicle, offered in four variations: roadster, pickup, convertible and station wagon. The convertible has a classic look from the original Jeepster, with either a manual or power convertible top. The roadster has either a half-length or full-length removable soft-top. The suspension was designed to give the best ride and handling of any Jeep vehicle. Jeep Cherokee: 1975 1983 A sportier 2-door version of the Wagoneer, the Jeep Cherokee features bucket seats, a sport steering wheel and sporty trim to appeal to younger, more adventurous buyers. The Cherokee Chief features a Wide-Track option with wider wheels, larger wheel cutouts, fender flares, three-inch wider axles, Dana 44 front and rear axles, an upgraded interior and exterior stripes. A 4-door Cherokee joined the lineup in 1977. Jeep CJ-7: 1976 1986 The first major update of the CJ design in 20 years came with the introduction of the CJ-7 for 1976. The CJ-7 has a wheelbase 10 inches longer than the CJ-5, allowing room for an automatic transmission. (Production of the CJ-5 continued until 1983.) The CJ-7 was the first Jeep to offer an optional molded plastic top and steel doors. Jeep Scrambler: 1981 1985 A pickup alternative to the CJ-7, the Scrambler is built on a longer 103-inch wheelbase with a longer rear overhang to increase cargo capacity. Known internationally as the CJ-8, the Scrambler is mechanically akin the CJ-7   although a V8 engine was never available. The open-top pickup was offered with either a soft-top or a hardtop. Only 30,000 Scramblers were built, making it popular among collectors. Jeep Cherokee (XJ): 1984-2001 As interest in SUVs continued to grow in America, Jeep debuted the all-new compact Cherokee for the 1984 model year. The 1984 Cherokee has a unibody chassis rather than a traditional body-on-frame design. It is 21 inches shorter, 6 inches narrower, 4 inches lower and 1,000 pounds lighter than the full-size Grand Wagoneer. The XJ features a Quadra-Link coil front suspension and was offered with two different all-wheel-drive systems: the part-time Command-Trac and full-time Selec-Trac. Cherokee was originally offered with either a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder or a 2.8-liter V6 engine until the highly-regarded 4.0-liter inline 6-cylinder arrived for 1987. A new Jeep Wagoneer based on the Cherokee was offered 1984 1990, featuring quad headlights and vinyl woodgrain side trim for the Wagoneer Limited. Jeep Comanche (MJ): 1986 1992 A pickup version of the Cherokee, the Jeep Comanche is a unibody vehicle, which was unique for a pickup truck at that time. Comanche is mechanically similar to the Cherokee and was offered as either the short-bed Comanche Sport or the long-bed Comanche Chief. Later models offered the full-time Selec-Trac 4-wheel drive or Command-Trac. Jeep Wrangler (YJ): 1987 1996 The Jeep Wrangler replaced the long-running Jeep CJ for 1987, and although it retained a similar profile to its predecessor, the new Wrangler shares few mechanical components with the CJ-7 and has more in common with the new Cherokee. The new design features a wider track, an angled grille and rectangular headlights. On the inside the Wrangler looks more modern and offers additional creature comforts to appeal to a broader audience. More than 600,000 Wranglers were sold. In August 1987 American Motors Corporation was sold to Chrysler Corporation and Jeep became a division of Chrysler. Jeep Grand Cherokee: 1993 1998 An all-new midsize SUV for 1993, the Jeep Grand Cherokee set new standards for ride, handling and comfort in an SUV. The first SUV with a driver's side airbag, the Grand Cherokee features Quadra-Coil suspension, an available 5.2-liter V8 engine and a choice of all-wheel-drive systems. The Jeep Grand Wagoneer   based on the Grand Cherokee   was offered for 1993 only, with all available Grand Cherokee options and vinyl woodgrain side trim. The Orvis special edition was offered 1995-1997 with green paint and gold striping outside and two-tone green and champagne leather inside. Grand Cherokee was updated with over 40 major changes for 1996 and the Grand Cherokee 5.9L Limited was added for 1998. Jeep Wrangler (TJ): 1997 2006 Redesigned for 1997 with a retro-look that was closer to the CJ-7 than the previous-generation Wrangler, the new design returned to round headlights and retained a fold-down windshield, removable doors and a choice of a soft-top or a removable hardtop. On-road handling improved via the Quadra-Coil suspension, which replaced standard leaf springs. Off-road capability also improved with more ground clearance and more aggressive approach and departure angles. Jeep Wrangler Rubicon The Wrangler Rubicon was added for 2003   the best equipped production Jeep for off-road capability up to that time. It has push-button locking front and rear axles, 4:1 low-range Rock-Trac transfer case, 32-inch tires and other options not previously offered on a production Jeep. The Wrangler Unlimited was added for 2004 with a longer wheelbase, 13 inches of additional cargo room and 2 inches of additional rear-seat room. Jeep Grand Cherokee: 1999 2004 The first complete redesign for the Grand Cherokee, the 1999 model features better ride and handling, the addition of a 4.7-liter V8 engine and a new Quadra-Drive 4×4 system. While the exterior design remains very similar to the original, there are very few components carried over from the previous model. Inside the ergonomics were improved and the level of luxury is increased to meet the demand for more refinement in luxury SUVs. Jeep Liberty: 2002 2007 The Jeep Liberty replaced the Cherokee for the 2002 model year with a new vehicle that incorporated iconic Jeep design elements such as round headlights and 7-slot grille. Liberty features independent front suspension, a 3.7-liter V6 engine, Command-Trac 4-wheel drive and full-time Select-trac standard for Liberty Limited. For the 2005 model year a 2.8-liter turbodiesel engine and a 6-speed manual transmission were offered. Jeep Grand Cherokee: 2005 2010 The Grand Cherokee was redesigned for 2005 with a focus on combining power and luxury with a quieter, more refined ride by adding a new short/long-arm front suspension. Three engines were offered, including a 330-horsepower 5.7-liter HEMI and the available full-time Quadra-Drive II 4×4 system featured front and rear limited slip differentials and a center differential lock. Jeep Commander: 2006 2010 Based on the same platform as the 2005 Grand Cherokee, the Jeep Commander is a 7-occupant SUV with a three-inch step up in the roof to create room for third-row stadium-style seating. The boxy design features an upright windshield and squared-off sides that look more like the 2008 Liberty; engine and drivetrain choices were shared with the Grand Cherokee. Jeep Patriot: 2007 2017 One of Jeep's two compact crossovers, the Jeep Patriot has more of an upright traditional SUV design, while the original Compass design (see next slide) looks more like a hatchback. The Patriot has a classic Jeep look with round headlights and an upright 7-slot grille. Unlike the traditional Jeep, the Patriot is front-wheel drive with a choice of two all-wheel-drive systems. Freedom Drive I is a full-time system designed for on-road use, and Freedom Drive II is off-road capable. Patriot is powered by a 172-horsepower 2.4-liter engine combined with a CVT. When the current-generation Compass debuted in 2017 Patriot production ceased. Jeep Compass: 2007 2016 The other of Jeep's venture into the compact crossover market, the Compass is front-wheel drive with the choice of two all-wheel drive systems. Freedom Drive I is a full-time system designed for on-road use, and Freedom Drive II is off-road capable. The Compass was redesigned for 2011 and a new design looks a lot like the new Grand Cherokee   a big improvement over the original design, but the drivetrain is still the same with a 172-horsepower 2.4-liter engine combined with a CVT. Jeep Wrangler: 2007 2017 With an all-new frame, exterior design, interior, engine and safety equipment, the 2007 Wrangler is larger and more refined but continued as the modern descendant of the original Willy's Jeep. Signature Jeep elements include round headlights, 7-slot grille, solid axles, removable doors, exposed hinges, a fold-down windshield and removable tops. For 2007 the Wrangler Unlimited adopted a 4-door design with easier access to a roomier 3-passenger rear seat and the most cargo capacity ever in a Wrangler. For 2011 the Wrangler received an all-new interior. Jeep Liberty: 2008 2012 Jeep Liberty was redesigned for 2008 with a sharper-edged, more rugged design to replace the more rounded first-generation look. To improve both on-road handling and off-road capability, new independent front and 5-link rear suspension were added with an available new Selec-Trac II full-time 4×4 system. Inside passenger room, cargo capacity and seats were improved and a Sky Slider Roof was offered. Jeep Grand Cherokee: 2011 present The Grand Cherokee was all-new for 2011 after more than 4 million sales since the first Grand Cherokee debuted in 1992. The Grand Cherokee has a refined design, a more luxurious interior, better on-road handling and increased off-road capability with a choice of three 4×4 systems, a new Jeep Selec-Terrain system and a new Jeep Quadra-Lift air suspension. For 2014 the Grand Cherokee was updated with a shorter grille and slimmer headlights. At the rear, larger taillights include signature LED lighting, a larger spoiler improves aerodynamics and a new tailgate aids rear visibility. Luxurious Summit and off-road Trailhawk trims were added in 2017. Jeep Cherokee: 2014 2018 The Jeep Cherokee returned for 2014 as an all-new compact SUV to replace the Liberty in the Jeep lineup. The new Cherokee features a modern, aerodynamic design and is powered by a new 3.2-liter Pentastar V6 engine or a 2.4-liter Tigershark MultiAir 2 engine, both combined with a standard 9-speed automatic transmission. Legendary Jeep off-road capability is delivered with the Cherokee Trailhawk, which includes lifted off-road suspension with skidplates, tow hooks, Selec-Terrain traction control, Jeep Active Drive Lock with rear locker, Selec-Speed Crawl Control with 56:1 crawl ratio and aggressive approach, departure and break-over angles. Jeep Renegade: 2015 present Renegade joined the growing subcompact crossover segment for 2015   a small, fuel-efficient model line that includes a variant possessing off-road capabilities worthy of the brand. For 2019, Renegade Limited and Trailhawk versions receive a new 1.3-liter turbocharged engine with start-stop technology producing 177 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque, combined with a 9-speed automatic transmission. The standard engine for Renegade Sport and Latitude is a 2.4-liter Tigershark engine mated to a 9-speed automatic. Other updates for 2019 include new front-end looks, new wheel designs and an LED lighting group. The Renegade Trailhawk offers Jeep off-road capability via the Active Drive Low 4×4 system with a 20:1 crawl ratio; the Selec-Terrain system with five modes; off-road suspension; hill-descent control; 17-inch off-road aluminum wheels and aggressive tires, as well as skidplates, off-road fascias, a black accent roof and red tow hooks. Jeep Compass: 2017   present Jeep introduced an all-new Compass for the 2017 model year that is a much better fit with the lineup than the previous generation. Taking full advantage of the enduring success of the Grand Cherokee, the redesigned Compass has obvious influences from its older sibling, looking very much like a baby Grand Cherokee. Compass is offered in four trim levels for the U.S. market: Sport, Latitude, Limited and Trailhawk. The 2.4-liter Tigershark engine producing 180 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque powers the compass, delivering good performance and impressive fuel economy. The Jeep Compass Trailhawk offers proper off-road capability with Active Drive Low, Selec-Terrain with Rock mode, increased ride height, skidplates, red tow hooks, unique fascias for increased approach and departure angles, hill-descent control and 17-inch off-road tires. Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk:  2018   present The Grand Cherokee is well known for mastering practically any terrain, and with the introduction of the Trackhawk, the racetrack gets added to that mastery list. This Trackhawk has a powerplant from the Hellcat series: a 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V8 that produces a staggering 707 horsepower. This special Grand Cherokee can reach 60 mph in 3.4 seconds with a top speed of 180 mph. But it is still a Grand Cherokee, which means there's more than 8 inches of ground clearance, full-time all-wheel drive with snow setting and the ability to tow more than 7,000 pounds. This is also the first production Jeep that can exceed $100,000   depending on options. Jeep Wrangler (JL): 2018 present An all-new Wrangler premiered for the 2018 model year   the first redesign of this iconic off-roader in 10 years. Jeep stayed true to the original, retaining the 7-slot grille and round headlights, although the grille is taller and wider and the bigheadlights have a stylish LED halo around the outer bezel. Overall the Wrangler is more aerodynamic, the beltline has been lowered, and the side windows are larger for improved visibility. Available in multiple trims, the Wrangler comes with two or four doors. Multiple powertrains are available, including a diesel as well as a new turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with eTorque technology. The new Jeep is much more comfortable on pavement than its predecessor while retaining legendary off-road capability. Jeep Cherokee: 2019 present For 2019 the iconic Cherokee gets a complete refresh   the first since the model returned to the Jeep lineup in 2014. The new design brings the exterior styling of Cherokee more in line with the traditional look of other Jeep models, featuring larger headlights, a new fascia and updated 7-slot grille. Inside, the new Jeep Cherokee builds on the previous model with subtle changes to lines and contours, with more premium materials improving quality and comfort. Three different powertrains are offered, including an all-new direct-injection turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine that produces 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque with engine start-stop technology. Jeep offers a selection of enhanced 4-wheel drive systems as well as a Selec-Terrain traction control system, making it one of the most capable midsize SUVs available. Jeep Gladiator: 2020 present It's been 27 years since Jeep last offered a pickup truck, and now the brand synonymous with off-roading adds the all-new Gladiator midsize pickup to the lineup. As a 2020 model, Gladiator offers the look and capability of the iconic Wrangler; however, they only share about 50 percent of their parts. Like the Wrangler, Gladiator is an open-top vehicle; the base-level Gladiator Sport comes with a Sunrider folding soft-top as standard equipment. The Sunrider soft-top easily folds back; or customers can opt for the Freedom hardtop with three removable panels. Gladiator is available in four trim levels: Sport, Sport S, Overland and Rubicon, all powered by a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine producing 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, combined with a standard 6-speed manual transmission. The top-line Rubicon boasts many off-road-oriented features including wide-track front and rear axles, front and rear locking differentials, sway-bar disconnect, a front skidplate / brush guard and 17-inch wheels shod with Falken Wildpeak A/T tires. Easter Jeep Safari Every year during Easter week, Jeep enthusiasts gather in Moab, Utah, to celebrate all things Jeep and participate in technical off-roading on Moab's scenic yet highly- demanding trails. For the 53rd annual event held April 13 21, 2019, Jeep and Mopar joined forces to create six custom concept vehicles to showcase both production and prototype Jeep Performance Parts. Not surprisingly, five of this year's six vehicles were based on the all-new Gladiator. Jeep Wayout An overland concept based on the new Gladiator pickup, the Jeep Wayout adds a full roof-mounted tent and large custom awning. A custom bed rack with an integrated ladder supports the rooftop tent, which has room to sleep two comfortably. The 270-degree awning includes amber LED lighting to help set up camp at the end of the day. The retro 17-inch steel wheels capture the look of the original Willys pickups, fitted with 37-inch mud-terrain tires. For additional capability, a Jeep Performance Parts 2-inch lift kit increases ground clearance. The Wayout also has an ARB onboard air system with quick-disconnect air supply line, and a 12,000 pound Warn winch. Inside, the floors are bed-lined and seats get trimmed in brown leather with laser-etched inserts of topographical maps. Jeep Flatbill Combining the world of motocross with the new Jeep Gladiator, the Jeep Flatbill features bright, colorful graphics and the ability to transport two dirt bikes. The aggressive front end includes a vented carbon fiber hood, high-clearance fender flares, and a custom shortened front bumper and skidplate to improve approach angle clearance. For dirt bike transport, the bed's tailgate has been removed and custom ramps slide out for easy loading. The rear bodywork has been revised, and a tube bumper increases the departure angle. Additional equipment includes Dynatrac Pro-Rock 60 front and rear axles, an Off-Road Evolution custom 4-inch lift kit, large rear bypass shocks along with 20-inch wheels with 40-inch tires to complete the package. Jeep M-175 Five-Quarter The only concept at the 2019 Easter Jeep Safari not based on the new Gladiator, the Jeep M-175 Five-Quarter is a restomod   a combination of vintage and modern components, based on a 1968 M-175 military vehicle based on the original Gladiator. The Five-Quarter name is a reference to Jeep trucks of the past that were one-and-one-quarter tons, or five quarters. The original front bodywork is replaced by a full carbon fiber front end, and a 6-foot aluminum bed is added with water-jet-cut panels and wood slats. The convertible soft-top has been dropped 3.5 inches. Headlights, auxiliary lights and taillights are all LEDs, and the rockers have been replaced with rock rails. The Five-Quarter's suspension is a heavy-duty link /coil with Dynatrac Pro-Rock axles along with 20-inch beadlock wheels and 40-inch tires. Power comes from a 6.2-liter supercharged "Hellcrate" HEMI engine producing more than 700 horsepower. Jeep J6 Don't expect to see a 2-door Jeep Gladiator anytime soon, but Jeep did create one for Easter Jeep Safari. This J6 features a 6-foot bed that is 12 inches longer than the production Gladiator bed. The custom Metallic Brilliant Blue paint is a tribute to the 1978 Jeep Honcho, and the bed carries a prototype 2.25-inch sport bar with four 5-inch Jeep Performance Parts LED lights mounted on top. The Jeep J6 is fitted with a Jeep Performance Parts 2-inch lift kit, along with prototype 17-inch beadlock wheels with a Brass Monkey finish and silver beadlock ring shod with 37-inch tires. For additional protection, 2-inch steel tubes are welded to the stock rock rails, and a 2-inch steel bar sporting four additional LED lights gets added to the top of the Rubicon bumper. The Jeep J6 features a custom Mopar satin grille; the concept's hardtop is removable. Jeep JT Scrambler Jeep recreates the look of the original CJ Scrambler with the JT Scrambler concept, featuring Punk'N Metallic Orange and Nacho stripes running from the front fenders to the bed, and a matching graphic in the center of the hood. The top is finished in vintage amber to complete the retro look. A bed-mounted sport bar extends the length of the bed rails on each side with Jeep Performance Parts LEDs mounted up top. The Jeep Performance Parts 17-inch slot wheels are finished in concept bronze to match the color theme, fitted with 37-inch tires. Inside, the Scrambler theme continues with Katzkin Amaretto Brown leather with orange stitching for the seats, dashboard and armrests. The Jeep logo embroidered in light Tungsten enhances the seatbacks. Jeep Gladiator Gravity The final Easter Jeep Safari concept for 2019 is the rock-climbing Jeep Gladiator Gravity, outfitted with available Jeep Performance Parts to increase its capability. Clearly an attention-getter, the Jeep Gladiator Gravity begins as a Gladiator Rubicon finished in Punk'N Metallic Orange with a Jeep Performance Parts 2-inch lift kit, 17-inch gear wheels, 35-inch tires and heavy-gauge steel Jeep Performance Parts powder-coated rock rails. Also added are a Mopar satin black grille, Jeep Performance Parts 7-inch LEDs on the front bumper, and 5-inch LEDs on the A-pillars. Jeep Gladiator Gravity also has a cold-air intake and a cat-back exhaust. Inside, Katzkin leather seats include the Jeep grille logo embroidered in Tungsten stitching.


Fire investigators in Anderson County are asking for the public's help identifying a woman caught on camera shortly before a large fire burned several acres. The Anderson County Fire Department said the fire was reported Tuesday about 3:45 p.m. at 501 Burts Garage Road. Flames burned about seven acres of field and trees. Game cameras in the area of the fire recorded images of a woman on Monday about 10:30 p.m., investigators said. The woman appears to be holding a flashlight. Anyone with information on the woman or the fire is asked to call Investigation investigators at 864-260-4016. READ MORE: Fire investigators ask for help finding woman caught on camera before large fire CHECK OUT WYFF: Get the latest Greenville news and weather. For live, local, late-breaking Greenville, SC, news coverage, WYFF is the place to be.


Missed the the most recent top news in Cleveland? Read on for everything you need to know. Hordes of midges are showing up on Cleveland Doppler radar again With spring comes bugs. Lots and lots of bugs, as caught in action on the US National Weather Service Cleveland's Doppler radar last night. Read the full story on Cleveland Scene . Cleveland Cavaliers replace 'Cavalier Girls' with co-ed dance team The Cleveland Cavaliers announced on Wednesday that they are bringing an end to their 'Cavs Girls' dance team. Read the full story on WKYC . The Cleveland Cavaliers under new coach John Beilein are an early work in progress   Bud Shaw's You Said It Cleveland sports fans wonder about John Beilein's 'renaissance' talk, the Browns Super Bowl hopes and what the Indians need to catch the Twins. Read the full story on WKYC . This story was created automatically using data about news stories on social media from CrowdTangle , then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.


As expected, Boston Celtics star point guard Kyrie Irving has chosen not to pick up the player option in the final year of his current contract and will become an unrestricted free agent. Irving, who would have earned $21.3 million under his current deal, was expected by the franchise and fans alike to take this route, with the team anticipating his decision before tomorrow's option date, according to The Athletic and Stadium's Shams Charania. Boston has expected this ahead of Irving's option date on Thursday. For Irving, it is an opt-in so no paperwork necessary to enter free agency. https://t.co/8ecykuIyi7 - Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 12, 2019 Irving will receive considerable interest from the league's marquee teams, though his decision will likely have been impacted by Golden State Warriors forward Kevin Durant's injury and whatever outcome it may have, if reports of interest between the two in teaming up are accurate. As the beginning of the NBA's free agency moratorium approaches (June 30), expect reports on where Irving and other top-tier free agents to heat up. The outcome of the Anthony Davis trade sweepstakes is another looming factor which may sway the decisions of Irving and other such stars on the open market this summer. Subsequently, we can expect a similar uptick in reporting on that issue as well as the future landscape of the league comes into focus over the next two weeks. MORE: Most bizarre and incredible catches by fishermen in past decade NBA trade rumor rankings: Rockets on the move? Packers rookie CB Ka'dar Hollman impressing early with press coverage Roundup: David Ortiz Shooting Suspect in Custody; Frozen 2; Alabama Chemical Castration Law News: Do Cowboys have best group of QBs across the entire league?


President Donald Trump's visit to El Paso Wednesday was a short one, but marked with division as protestors of the president clashed with his supporters outside of a hospital where Trump was meeting with victims, first responders and law enforcement officials. Trump arrived in El Paso mid-afternoon Wednesday, while arguments between political parties happened all over town. "I believe it's an insult that he's here," one person said. "He's given permission to a psychopath racist white supremacist to attack us this way." Others are happy to see him in El Paso. "It's always so negative about the president," one person said. "The president has brought down unemployment for Hispanics to the lowest in 50, 60 years. And we have more Hispanics working in all kinds of fields." A group chanted "That hat is hate!" at one woman wearing a Make America Great Again hat while visiting a memorial for the victims of the shooting: Others held signs, including one that said "Racist trump is to blame!" and included an acrostic poem that said This Racist Upsets Me Period." Others started yelling "Trump 2020!" outside the hospital. Follow Alex Rozier for more updates on Twitter at @RozierReports . This is a developing story. Check back for new information. Download our free WFAA app to stay up-to-date on all news stories in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. More Coverage: Protesters chant as Trump visits Dayton, El Paso after mass shootings 'Te amamos, El Paso': See a movie at Alamo Drafthouse, donate to the El Paso Victims Relief Fund Walmart says it won't stop selling guns Collin County family: El Paso shooter 'tried to recruit our son' Japan warns residents: Be aware of 'gunfire incidents everywhere' in US


Brad Jones Racing driver Jack Smith will make his third Supercars wildcard start of the season in Darwin next week. With previous outings in Tasmania and Winton already under his belt, Super2 regular Smith is set to line up on the main game grid for a third time at Hidden Valley. It will be the first time he's come in unfamiliar with the track, though, having had precious Super2 experience to draw on during his other main game starts. "I'm excited to join the grid at the Darwin event," said Smith. "The Hidden Valley circuit is one that I have not been to before, so I'm keen to learn the new circuit. I plan on spending a while on a simulator and will go through all the on-board footage, gathering as much info as I can so I can be as prepared as possible heading into the weekend." According to Smith, making a third wildcard start is all about getting miles under the belt for a future Supercars endurance campaign. "Getting the consistency in doing back-to-back rounds is really valuable, there are many differences between the Super2 and Supercar formats, and the intensity is really something else," he said. "The Super2 races are much shorter and don't have the knockout qualifying format you see on some Supercar weekends. In these races you are having to manage tyres a lot more and complete pitstops, which for anyone looking to step up into Supercars, are things you need to learn and what the whole wildcard process is about. "For me, my next goal is to drive in the Endurance Cup, and the wildcard experience will be a huge benefit to me. I've driven at Sandown and Bathurst in Super2 and at Gold Coast in Super3, so I know those tracks. "I am doing all I can to put my best foot forward for when that time is right, and the team have been a great support in me working towards that." Brad Jones Racing is expected to field Ash Walsh alongside Tim Slade and Tim Blanchard alongside Nick Percat at this year's long-distance races, but is yet to name a partner for Macauley Jones.


RICHMOND, Texas (AP) A Texas sheriff said Friday he has apologized to New England Patriots player Elandon Roberts for the actions of a deputy who referred to the linebacker's race and size during a March traffic stop but also defended the deputy's comment and the stop. Fort Bend County Sheriff Troy Nehls said during a news conference that he spoke with Roberts and his attorney and said the deputy should not have taken so long with the March 10 traffic stop. Roberts was stopped as he pulled into the driveway of his Houston-area home and Nehls also said Deputy Adam Watkins was wrong to order Roberts' wife back inside the home when she saw flashing lights and stepped outside. ''The way he interacted with his wife, I didn't appreciate the tone,'' Nehls said of his deputy. Watkins, who is white, ultimately was issued a verbal reprimand for how he conducted the stop, according to sheriff's Capt. Steve Holtz. But the stop, which was captured on dash-cam video , was warranted because Roberts was traveling 59 mph in a 35 mph zone as he traveled home, Nehls said. Holtz explained the ticket later was changed to a warning at the deputy's request. Watkins, in speaking to a colleague, referred to Roberts as a ''big, black male'' but Nehls defended the reference to race, saying the deputy was simply offering a description of the driver. The sheriff didn't comment on why it was necessary for the deputy to invoke Roberts' race. Roberts, 25, in a statement to USA Today was critical of his treatment, saying, ''Unfortunately, these types of things are happening all too often to African Americans.'' Watkins also told a colleague that Roberts ''wouldn't comply'' when told to get back into his car after getting out once he pulled into his driveway. ''I had to yell at him pretty hard,'' Watkins is heard saying on the video. Holtz said Watkins, a rookie only on the job a few months when the stop occurred, became nervous when he saw Roberts initially get out of his car. He said the mistakes Watkins committed were understandable in light of his inexperience. Nehls criticized USA Today for publishing an edited version of the stop that he believes was misleading. The sheriff also criticized those who turn the encounter ''into a racial issue.'' ''I think there have been traffic stops and interactions between white and black that have caused some of the most horrible, civil unrest in this country,'' Nehls said, adding that, ''We haven't experienced that in Fort Bend County.'' The fast-growing county is just southwest of Houston. Roberts, who lives in Richmond, starred at the University of Houston before being drafted by the Patriots in the sixth round of the 2016 NFL draft. Related slideshow: A look at Gronk's career (provided by Tribune News Service)


When you're a child, it's surely cool to have the New Jersey Devils' mascot show up to your birthday shindig, but what's much more impressive is when NJ Devil gets overwhelmed by the play parachute, starts running around, and shatters a glass window. How many kids get to say that happened at their party? Come for the utter silence once NJ Devil makes a boo-boo, but stay for one mom's scathing bon mot: "Nailed it." My son's birthday ended with a bang! We are so ready for this season thanks NJ Devil for coming to the birthday party. pic.twitter.com/cBtndy6UEC   Lawrence Chiu (@aznpimpmaster) July 14, 2019 Here's another angle that offers a better view of the shock afterward: pic.twitter.com/Hn3DMlivaH   Lawrence Chiu (@aznpimpmaster) July 14, 2019 The birthday boy's father logged into Twitter to assure everyone that NJ Devil hadn't suffered from any injuries, besides embarrassment. No one was hurt and everyone had a great time. Glad you are ok @NJDevil00   Lawrence Chiu (@aznpimpmaster) July 14, 2019 Way to go, Devil! H/t to Alex


Two bears were spotted fighting in the front yard of a residence in Branchville, New Jersey, on May 3. This video, filmed by Corey Bale, shows the two black bears on hind legs lunging at eachother, biting, and clawing on the lawn. Bale told Storyful he believes the bears were fighting over a female who was also in the yard but not visible in the video. Credit: Corey Bale via Storyful


Renault executive director Marcin Budkowski thinks it is too "dangerous" for any Formula 1 team to gamble on switching focus to its 2021 car design right now, despite the advantages a head start would give. As Brawn famously showed in 2009, a major overhaul of rules can be a good opportunity for a team to steal the march on the opposition by throwing its resources at the car much earlier. Ahead of a big revamp for 2021, teams are already juggling their resources in terms of future developments   and there could be temptation to invest more in longer term plans because of the advantages it could bring. Read Also: Why "damaged" Renault is not changing its 2019 targets But Budkowski thinks the fact that the rules are unchanged for 2020 actually means that there is less to gain now by devoting effort towards 2021, because there is a danger of falling too far behind next year. Asked by Motorsport.com if there was temptation to switch focus to 2021 already, Budkowski said: "I doubt it because 2020 at the moment looks like a year of regulation stability, so whatever you are doing today on 2019 will benefit you in 2020. "If you stop any development on 2019 now you will hurt in 2019 and 2020. It could be a possibility next year because the impact would only be on 2020, but at the moment it is too dangerous. However, it is a balancing act. "We are doing three car projects with the resources you normally have to do two. You have to make compromises and you have to pick your priorities carefully. "Yes, we have an important milestone for 2021 with the changes and therefore opportunities, but we have 2019 and 2020 in the meantime that we still have ambitions for." The balancing of resources for 2021 is also further complicated by the fact that a cost cap is coming in then, which could require a complete overhaul of team infrastructure. Budkowski says that until it is clear what will and will not be included in the cap, then it is very hard to plan ahead. "It is difficult to comment because the cost cap has not been finalised in terms of cost and perimeter," he said. "There is talk about the level [of the cost cap] but the level doesn't mean anything without the perimeter. "So you can keep the level and change the perimeter and you have effectively changed the level by doing so. So both level and perimeter are still being debated, and at the moment it is fairly high…."


The Cincinanti Bengals might end up getting lucky with star wideout A.J. Green. Green suffered an injury to his left leg on the first day of training camp Saturday in Dayton when he got caught up with Dre Kirkpatrick near the end of practice. He was visibly frustrated and needed a cart to leave the field. Initial reports suggested a sprain, though as Geoff Hobson of Bengals.com wrote, an MRI has to confirm and it would mean Green misses most of camp: "It's believed he'll undergo an MRI Sunday and while he may miss a chunk of training camp, it would appear if no more damage is discovered he's still on for Opening Day in Seattle on Sept. 6." The writeup does note X-rays were thought to have come back clean, at least. Even so, the obvious problem persists: Like anyone else on the roster, Green has to be on the field to get reps in with a new system lead by head coach Zac Taylor. Instead, the Bengals are now merely hoping one of their best offensive weapons is ready to go by the opener. MORE: LeBron James jumps into Bronny's layup line for a ridiculous dunk Behind the scenes with new-look Nets: 'We got stars without mortgaging everything'' Gregg Williams blowing away Adam Gase with Jets training camp defense Theo Riddick release means it's Ty Johnson time Injury report following first day of Chiefs training camp


We'll call it the Mike Mayock effect, and it could help plenty of media personalities and their agents make plenty of money in the coming years. Although the former NFL Network draft expert wasn't hoping to do anything other than get a job putting into practice the things he had spent 15 years preaching when he became the G.M. of the Raiders, smart agents have seized on Mayock's example as a way to get their clients better deals, or at a minimum to infuse them with added credibility. Case in point: ESPN's Todd McShay affirmatively disclosed that he was under consideration for a job in the Jets' front office. McShay (represented by CAA) would have been hired by G.M. Joe Douglas (also represented by CAA) to work with coach Adam Gase (also represented by CAA). But McShay, as one source with knowledge of the situation previously explained it to PFT, was never a serious candidate for the job. And now, according to ESPN's Chris Mortensen, McShay has withdrawn his name from consideration for a job with the Jets. So Douglas, who also played college football at Richmond with McShay, gave McShay an interview, McShay removed himself from consideration, McShay added the fact that he was under consideration to his broader resume, and McShay potentially has positioned himself for a better deal at ESPN. Look for this kind of thing to continue, with TV personalities and their agents floating embellished or exaggerated rumors of candidacy for NFL jobs. It give the TV personalities added credibility and leverage at no cost. Mayock's ability to parlay his spot at NFL Network into a G.M. job with the Raiders makes it all plausible, regardless of whether for some of the TV personalities none of it is what it seems to be.


Chicago Bears rookie running back David Montgomery hasn't even won the starting job in 2019 yet, but he's already garnering some respect from NFL Network's Maurice Jones-Drew . Jones-Drew recently ranked all 32 expected RB1s in the NFL entering 2019, and Montgomery made his list. Granted, he came in at No. 27, but the fact he's being projected as the Bears' starter is an indication of what MJD thinks of his talent and upside. The rookie should fill the void left by Jordan Howard , who was traded to the Eagles this offseason, as a physical runner who forced 99 missed tackles last season at Iowa State (leading FBS RBs), according to Pro Football Focus … I can see Montgomery beating out Tarik Cohen for the RB1 spot and serving as the team's first- and second-down back. Montgomery drew praise from the coaching staff and media in attendance at Chicago's rookie and veteran minicamps, and is certainly trending in the right direction as training camp approaches. He ended his college career with 624 carries for 2,925 yards and 26 touchdowns. Montgomery is ranked ahead of established veterans like Tevin Coleman (49ers), Devonta Freeman (Falcons) and Lamar Miller (Texans). MORE: Report: ESPN plans to stop featuring LaVar Ball after his inappropriate remark to Molly Qerim Rob Pelinka May Not Have Known the Cap Rules for Anthony Davis Trade Four potential Kawhi Leonard landing spots in free agency Free agent DT Domata Peko met with Lions Raiders DE Clelin Ferrell signs contract, offers message to fans


The regular season is still months away, which means that writers, analysts and media pundits are using this time to throw out their early predictions for the upcoming campaign. With the majority of the rosters set after the free agency frenzy and the NFL draft, we have a better understanding where each team in the league stands and how they stack up among one another. On paper, Los Angeles is deep at nearly every position with the exception of the offensive line and interior defensive line. Because of this, they're more than capable of competing with the best of the best in 2019. After coming up very short of the division title to the Chiefs in 2018, many have plugged the Chargers as the team to rebound and win it this upcoming season. Touchdown Wire's Barry Werner is the latest to see L.A. winning the AFC West for the first time since 2009. The Chargers are going to win the AFC West and dethrone the Kansas City Chiefs in the process. This sets up as a critical season for Philip Rivers, who isn't getting younger. If Los Angeles can improve on a strong 2018, it has a big, big shot at being the AFC rep in the Super Bowl. Distractions will take their toll on KC, which has Patrick Mahomes but needs to replace Kareem Hunt for an entire season and has no guarantee it will have Tyreek Hill. The Chargers and Chiefs are the two teams that will be in the competition the most for the top spot in the division. Not only that, but there's a good chance that they will be fighting for the No. 1 seed in the entire conference. Kansas City did lose a few of their key players but added some to fill those gaps, most notably safety Tyrann Mathieu and defensive ends Frank Clark and Alex Okafor. This year, they will be without running back Kareem Hunt and there's a chance that they could start the season without wide receiver Tyreek Hill. Meanwhile, the Chargers did lose a couple of key players this offseason but solidified their stacked roster with the notable additions of linebacker Thomas Davis, defensive tackle Jerry Tillery and free safety Nasir Adderley, along with a few re-signings. They will also be getting back tight end Hunter Henry, cornerback Trevor Williams and their trio of linebackers. If Los Angeles wants any chance of being crowned AFC West champions, they will likely have to finish their year off with 13 or more wins or a 12-4 record, at worst. The two teams face off Week 11 in Mexico City and Week 17 on the road in Kansas City to conclude the season. MORE: Jimmy Butler's decision to sign with the Miami Heat just got super awkward Troy Daniels is going to hit a lot of open three-pointers for Lakers What the Heck is Going On With the Jimmy Butler Sign-and-Trade? Kawhi Leonard wants LeBron-level influence in hiring personnel with Lakers Is Raiders RB Chris Warren's roster spot 'up in the air' for 2019?


NEW YORK/CHICAGO (Reuters) - China would likely lift a ban on U.S. poultry as part of a trade deal and may buy more pork to meet a growing supply deficit, but it is not willing to allow a prohibited growth drug used in roughly half the U.S. hog herd, two sources with knowledge of the negotiations said. The United States and China are trying to hammer out a deal to end a months-long trade war that has cost the world's two largest economies billions and roiled global financial markets and supply chains. U.S. President Donald Trump's administration is pressing Beijing to address concerns over Chinese practices on intellectual property rights, forced technology transfer and industrial subsidies. Washington is also pushing for greater market access for agricultural products by seeking to reduce tariffs, lift bans and overhaul regulatory processes. The United States has asked Beijing to lift its bans on the drug ractopamine, which some U.S. pork producers use to boost hog growth, and on U.S. poultry, said two sources briefed on the discussions who spoke on condition of anonymity. China's negotiators have resisted lifting the ractopamine restriction even though Beijing may boost imports of U.S. pork as its own hog herd is devastated by disease, the sources said. Huge losses in China's hog herd due to African swine fever have left the world's largest pork market facing a protein deficit, stoking hopes among U.S. pork and poultry producers. "I think that China will do anything possible to make it easier for them to import protein," said Bob Brown, an independent U.S. livestock market analyst. "This is such a gigantic thing," he said of African swine fever. Up to 200 million pigs could be culled or die from infections as the disease spreads through China, reducing the nation's pork output by 30 percent from 2019, according to Rabobank. Iowa State University agricultural economist Dermot Hayes said he expects China will import about 4 million to 6 million tonnes of pork in 2020, following losses in Chinese herds. The amount imported from the United States will depend on a trade deal, because Beijing maintains tariffs on shipments of American pork and has alternative suppliers, he said. The Chinese poultry market also "has tremendous potential" for U.S. producers, said Jim Sumner, president of the USA Poultry and Egg Export Council in Stone Mountain, Georgia, valuing it at $500 million. "With China's situation with African swine fever, they're going to have a real protein shortage in the near future," he said. The U.S. Department of Agriculture projects China's total chicken imports will surge 68 percent this year to 575,000 tonnes, not including popular chicken feet, as African swine fever spurs consumers to turn to proteins other than pork. The disease is fatal to pigs but not harmful to humans. Beijing has banned all U.S. poultry and eggs since January 2015 due to an avian influenza outbreak, which has been over for years. That caused imports to tank after the United States shipped $390 million worth of poultry and products to China in 2014. The following year, shipments were less than a fifth of that, at $74 million. China lifted a similar restriction on poultry from France last month, and last year dropped duties on U.S. white-feathered broiler chickens. A total lifting of the ban would reopen the gates for U.S. poultry to compete in the world's largest, and best-paying, market for products like chicken feet, and benefit companies such as Sanderson Farms Inc.. While it looks increasingly likely China may lift its ban on U.S. poultry, Beijing is seeking a "two-way street" and would want to be able to export some poultry products to the United States as well, two sources said. China's Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs did not respond to a request for comment. A spokeswoman for the U.S. Trade Representative's office declined to comment. A U.S. meat exporter said officials from the USTR indicated that China will not drop its ban on ractopamine, though trade talks are still ongoing. Chinese authorities blocked the use of ractopamine in livestock in 2002. They say it can cause health problems in people and is too similar to clenbuterol, an illegal additive in pig feed used to keep meat lean. The European Union also prohibits ractopamine, although the United States and other countries say it is safe. Keeping the ban on ractopamine could benefit companies such as Smithfield Foods, a subsidiary of Hong Kong-listed WH Group Ltd that already raises most of its hogs without the drug. WH Group declined to comment. Smithfield Foods did not respond to request for comment. Other U.S. pork producers that use the drug could benefit if China dropped its ban. "It's unfortunate news," Christine McCracken, senior protein analyst with Rabobank in New York, said of the likely continuance of the ractopamine ban. (Reporting by Chris Prentice in Washington and Tom Polansek in Chicago; Additional reporting by Dominique Patton in Beijing; Editing by Caroline Stauffer and Dan Grebler)


The Tampa Bay Buccaneers took Central Michigan cornerback Sean Murphy-Bunting with their first pick in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft. Some felt it was an overreach given that other talented corners, like Greedy Williams from LSU, were still on the board. Still, the Buccaneers liked the size and strength of Murphy-Bunting and didn't hesitate to take him. And, so far, the new Buccaneer has been more than happy being a part of the Tampa Bay family. Today, he tweeted out a photo of himself from rookie minicamp sporting his new Bucs threads. Take a look. 2⃣6⃣ in that Red & Pewter pic.twitter.com/dH9lilCjZU - Sean Murphy-Bunting (@MrSeanyB1) May 13, 2019 In his three years playing at Central Michigan, Murphy-Bunting had a total of 104 tackles and nine interceptions. Last season, the Buccaneers had nine interceptions as a team and ranked 26th overall in pass defense, surrendering 259.4 yards per game. MORE: NBA Free Agency 2019: The top players These five photos of Kawhi Leonard watching his buzzer-beater are incredible Video confirms reports of Chris Paul's attempt to sabotage Steph Curry Dak Prescott's accuracy, aggressive quantified ahead of new deal Patriots are penciling in Isaiah Wynn at left tackle


Despite signing Za'Darius Smith and Preston Smith in free agency and using a first-round pick on Rashan Gary this offseason, the power of the Green Bay Packers' pass rush likely remains on the interior. And that's exactly how defensive coordinator Mike Pettine wants it. Immediately upon taking the job in January 2017, Pettine outlined how important interior disruption would be to playing his preferred style of defense. A transformative offseason in Green Bay has provided him all the tools necessary to dominate games from the inside. Pettine wants one-on-one opportunities against guards and centers and for the pocket to collapse in front of the quarterback. Whereas speedy edge pressure can often be avoided by the quarterback stepping up into the pocket, interior pressure creators can clog passing lanes, throw off timing and disrupt the quarterback's feet - creating a constant sense of discomfort for the passer. "It's something I learned from Rex (Ryan) a long time ago," Pettine said. "You have to have guys winning inside. Even if you have great edge rushers, great speed rush, if the pocket's not collapsed, it's a clean pocket to step up into. It's paramount that you have guys that can win inside." Clearly, the Packers' organizational goal this offseason was to give Pettine more tools to disrupt the quarterback from the interior. Last season, Pettine had to be clever in designing blitzes to create pressure from all angles. He can still do that in 2019, but no longer will be Kenny Clark and Mike Daniels be the only consistently disruptive players up front. He now has several one-on-one matchup winners. Za'Darius Smith, while an outside linebacker on the depth chart, arrives in Green Bay after a dominant season rushing the passer from the inside for the Baltimore Ravens, who often lined him up over guards in obvious passing situations. The result was Smith producing more third-down sacks than any other player in football. His biggest impact in Green Bay will likely come as a pass-rushing specialist from the inside, even if he's given plenty of opportunities on the edge. Preston Smith gives Pettine a more traditional 3-4 outside linebacker who can set the edge, rush the passer from a two-point stance and drop into coverage. He represents the complete player the Packers defense lacked on the edge in 2018, and he'll likely be the most productive edge rusher for Pettine in 2019. Gary is the wildcard. While an elite athlete, he often played a thankless position at Michigan, serving as Don Brown's run-stuffing edge disruptor. He plowed through offensive tackles and tight ends on the strong side of plays and attempted to make life easier for everyone around him. It's unclear how valuable Gary will be as a true edge rusher, especially early. His athletic profile suggests a potentially dominant outside rusher, but he didn't consistently translate those traits into production in college and he needs development as a pure rusher. It's possible his best role early on will be as a subpackage rusher, with Pettine giving him opportunities to beat guards one-on-one or stunt inside from edge positions on obvious passing downs. It may provide the best chance for Gary to produce early while still developing his abilities as a true edge rusher. The Packers are also bringing back third-year defensive lineman Montravius Adams, who flashed disruptive ability from the inside during his second season, and rookie Kingsley Keke used his quickness and length to terrorize interior blockers during a dominant overall performance at the Senior Bowl in January. If Adams takes another step, and Keke gives Pettine another inside pass-rushing option, the Packers will be as deep in interior disruptors as any defense in football. They might also have one of the NFL's best young inside players. Clark, who is entering his fourth season, led the team in pressures last season and is now widely considered one of the best young defensive linemen in the game. More improvement and better injury luck could give the 23-year-old (he doesn't turn 24 until October) a chance to ascend into the upper tier of elite defenders while providing the centerpiece to Pettine's attack. Don't forget about Daniels. He might be 30 and entering the final year of his deal, but the Packers still consider him to be a "dominant player," and his pass-rushing numbers from last season suggest he's still highly capable of beating blocks and getting to the passer. More help up front could keep Daniels more fresh drive-to-drive and open up a higher percentage of one-on-one opportunities. Clark, Daniels, Za'Darius Smith, Rashan Gary, Montravius Adams and Kingsley Keke provide the ingredients of a special group of interior disruptors. "That's where it starts. It starts up front. People talk about the exterior pass rush, I think the interior pass rush is as important or maybe potentially more important," Pettine said. "If you can be dominant inside, I think that has a ripple effect throughout your defense." MORE: Draymond Green to LeBron James' 14-Year-Old Son: "I'm at Your F--king Neck This Summer" Kyle Busch was so frustrated during Coke 600 that he told Joe Gibbs he quit Four potential Khris Middleton landing spots in free agency Report: The Celtics are no longer the favorites to sign Kyrie Irving Richie Incognito signing points to more power football for Raiders


World Rally Championship teams have warned that the FIA is now leaving it too late to finalise its plans for introducing hybrid technology to the series in 2022. FIA rally director Yves Matton has made clear there will be an electric element in the next WRC rules cycle, and intends to outline further details next month. Read Also: FIA plans electric or hybrid WRC rules for 2022 But one senior team source told Motorsport.com: "If we'd been doing this ourselves, we would have been a year ahead of where we are now. "There's simply not enough detail. Look a little further away and the logistic guy is two years away from starting the plan for our pre-event test for Monte Carlo. And we have nothing so far. Still we wait. OK next month we hope for something on the paper, but this is really on the limit for 2022." Asked on the record for his views, Toyota chief engineer Tom Fowler accepted the move to hybrid would present a significant challenge. "The timeline we're on right now would be OK if we were in the same sort of situation we were in when we went from the 2016 to 2017 World Rally Cars," he told Motorsport.com. "But to bring in a whole new technology? It's going to be tight." Matton, who reiterated that a hybrid move is essential for the WRC, believes the current timescale allows teams to begin 2022 testing next year. "It's too early to tell you exactly what 2022 will look like, we're still in those discussions," he said. "The target is to decide in June what the technical regulations will be. "One thing is sure: we will go for hybrid, it's a common view on this. We are speaking to the manufacturers now to understand well their views on the future and what could be the technical marketing tools in World Rally Championship with the new car. "We all know to have manufacturers involved, the cars need to be a marketing tool otherwise it doesn't make any sense. Normally in June we will introduce the first principles, and, at the end of the year, the intention is to have a technical regulation published with all the technical principles. "After that we still need some time to fine-tune this. The idea is for the teams to be able to start working on their cars at the start of next year." Motorsport.com understands the FIA will announce a two-stage approach to WRC hybridisation next month. The first stage of development is expected to be based around common, FIA sourced parts with phase two offering the teams the opportunity to develop their own solutions in seasons following 2022. ** Motorsport.com's sister publication Motorsport News - on sale now - features in-depth coverage of the current state of play with the hybrid WRC plan, including more details of how the technology will be introduced***


The respect for general manager Chris Grier's early rebuilding efforts in Miami continue from the major networks. In January and February, the popular line of thinking among some of the most prominent voices in sports was that the Dolphins were poised to stink - and that there's really no telling how a reboot of their thought process was going to go. But as the offseason as developed, the narrative has slowly but surely shifted to a supportive one of Miami and their line of thinking. That support continues with the latest piece from ESPN, in which the team's beat writers rank the teams' respective 2019 offseasons into one of four categories: Elite, Above average, Average or Too soon to tell. Here's the bad news, Dolphins fans - Miami wasn't classified as an "Elite" offseason. But here is the good news - only one team was, the Cleveland Browns. The Dolphins were given the next best assignment, an "Above average" classification for their efforts this spring. Here's what ESPN's Dolphins beat writer Cameron Wolfe had to say on the matter: "It has been a two-step goal: 1. Say goodbye to an era mired in mediocrity, Band-Aid fixes and a risky win-now vision with moves such as getting rid of coach Adam Gase, GM Mike Tannenbaum and QB Ryan Tannehill, along with largely sitting out the free-agent period. 2. Exercise patience for an impending rebuild and make moves to set up the organization for long-term success starting in 2020 with moves such as hiring coach Brian Flores with a five-year guaranteed deal, collecting a bounty of 2020 draft picks and making Xavien Howard the highest-paid cornerback." Wolfe is spot on. He's also accurate in suggesting none of Miami's progress will matter until the team resolves their outstanding issues at quarterback. Whether that is Josh Rosen or someone else, a high end quarterback will mask a lot of other issues on a team - and if Miami builds the team right before they find a passer, look out. View embedded content MORE: Four potential Kawhi Leonard landing spots in free agency Suspended NASCAR driver still found a way to race this weekend Rams trading Tyler Higbee to Patriots would make sense for both teams Heading into training camp: Lions top-8 OL appear locked in Fierce, fiesty WR competition for Cowboys behind Top 3 roster locks


Phoenix will see a return of last week's hot temperatures over the coming week, according to drone-powered weather forecasting service Saildrone . Temperatures will reach a high of 103 degrees on Tuesday and Wednesday. There's no rain predicted this week, with the possibility of showers remaining at 0% for the next seven days. Skies will be clear for the next few days, turning partly cloudy on Monday. Winds are expected to reach a modest high of 14 mph tomorrow, while today will be calmer. This story was created automatically using Saildrone's local weather forecast data, then reviewed by an editor. We also incorporate historic weather data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.


Oakland Oakland will see a return of last week's warm temperatures today, according to drone-powered weather forecasting service Saildrone . Temperatures will reach a high of 73 degrees, then turn milder from Thursday to Friday. The coming days will also see partly cloudy skies, forecast to last through Tuesday. Winds will remain fairly calm over the course of the week, with the highest speeds on Tuesday at only 12 miles per hour. This story was created automatically using Saildrone's local weather forecast data, then reviewed by an editor. We also incorporate historic weather data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.


They've both been there before, but despite minor successes for the pair, neither really managed to consolidate themselves as a Premier League side. It is a waste of time claiming the Championship is a better league than the Premier League, however, the sheer quantity of drama and exhilarating moments from the top down in the division makes a strong case for it being more exciting and unpredictable. WE ARE @premierleague !  #ncfc pic.twitter.com/zSVfM3idkm   Norwich City FC (@NorwichCityFC) April 27, 2019 Such a league naturally coughs up a few sides who have what it takes to not only finish top of the pile, but build on their success and get the pan hot, ready to fry some much bigger fish. The remarkable seasons both clubs have had this campaign indicate that there is no set-in-stone winning formula on how to achieve promotion from the Championship , with both clubs opting for a different approach that ultimately yielded success. Just as with Wolves ' and Fulham's vastly differing plights in the top-flight this year, it also demonstrates there is no such recipe for Premier League survival. The Canaries' decision to appoint Daniel Farke totally eclipses that of Sheffield United's to hire Chris Wilder. Yet, both clubs defied the odds and secured automatic promotion. Norwich proved that the answer is not always close to home. When Farke joined the club at the beginning of last season, eyebrows were raised when he could only lead to club to a 14th place finish with frustrations mounting over an unappealing style of play. They stuck with their man, however, and have been the standout performers in the second tier this season by a country mile. After maintaining their place in the Championship, Farke changed styles drastically, landing the players he needed to implement his attacking philosophy. They scored fewer goals last season than Sunderland (49) and the majority of the team's threat came through the centre - much due to an over-reliance on James Maddison. Since he left to join Leicester , their play is almost entirely down the flanks through new signing Emiliano Buendía, with the Argentine netting eight times and registering 12 assists this term. Their devastating, swashbuckling style of football has yielded an unsurprisingly league high 91 goals - more than achieved by Wolves last year. While the willingness of Farke's fullbacks to stream forward and overlap is reminiscent of his countryman Jurgen Klopp's style. Akin to that of Wolves, astute overseas recruitment and promotion from the academy has been their philosophy, which was highlighted when free transfer Teemu Pukki was voted Player of the Season and teenager Max Aarons was given the young player award. While it would be some stretch to imagine Norwich could produce a similarly glittering season to that of Nuno Espirito Santo's side, the like-minded direction the club is taking could definitely rattle a few cages in the Premier League . They've demonstrated that hiring a manager with Championship experience isn't the be all and end all, while faith in the man in the hotseat (who knew?) can actually breed results. Thought we'd look at the squad age profiles in the EFL Championship to see the how different squads looked in terms of youth versus experience. We can see Norwich are happy to use their youth with Max Aarons and Jamal Lewis being mainstays in the side. #NCFC pic.twitter.com/108eoKMS2h   EFL Stats (@EFLStats) April 22, 2019 Bringing us onto the Blades, who have gone down an entirely different route to secure their promotion. A route that is the result of sentimental appointments coupled with tactical astuteness. Chris Wilder. Born in Stocksbridge just ten miles north of Sheffield and brought up a United fan. The definition of 'one of our own'. Wilder has performed miracles with his club after years of anguish for the red half of the steel city. Having been snapped up from Northampton Town to take the reins in 2016, he guided the club out of League One in his first season and led them to a history-making 100 point haul to finish as league winners. He won four trophies at Alfreton Town. He led Oxford United back to the Football League. He kept Northampton Town up and then guided them to the League Two title. He's now taken his boyhood club from League One to the Premier League. Chris Wilder, one of their own. pic.twitter.com/mNyFlCj4n1   bet365 (@bet365) April 28, 2019 Upon return to the Championship they spent a meagre £5m as they comfortably consolidated their league status with a mightily impressive tenth place finish. After losing star player David Brooks to Bournemouth before a ball was kicked this season, Wilder made some shrewd signings in every department, parting with just £6m this time around. Throughout the entirety of the this season, Wilder has implemented a 3-5-2 formation that has been criminally overlooked as tactical genius and resulted in an unheralded renaissance, bamboozling opposing sides all season. Combined cost of Billy Sharp and David McGoldrick: £635k  Combined league goals this season: 38  Half decent value  #SUFC pic.twitter.com/WS0KodZ5Pn   Ladbrokes (@Ladbrokes) April 27, 2019 His ball-playing outside centre halves Jack O'Connell and Chris Basham are given license to bomb forward, overlapping the wing-backs while the team of the season player Oliver Norwood retains the ball in midfield in a controlled possession-based setup. John Egan's signing from Brentford has been pivotal, though. The central defender is Sheffield's Franz Beckenbauer, performing the sweeping role while equally adept at finding the strikers with precision long balls. It's a system unfamiliar to the Premier League, and a refreshing change that may well cause plenty of upsets. What has been key for the Yorkshire club this season, however, and what stands them in good stead to stay up next season is Wilder's philosophy. It is built around an unbreakable team spirit, full of passion, something only heightened by the manager's personal endearment to the club. Furthermore, leading goalscorer BIlly Sharp is a Blades fan too, and his commitment to the cause reverberates throughout the squad. This group of players ❤ What a chant from @JohnEgan92 . #SUFC  pic.twitter.com/UMdiaBuuhK   Sheffield United (@SUFC_tweets) April 29, 2019 Look at Fulham . A club that unquestionably had team spirit as they won promotion, was rocked by the multi-million pound signings of foreign exports who usurped key members of the squad, damaging the mood in the changing room along the way. Sure, that's only speculation but it may well have played a role in their immediate relegation. You can can be sure whatever faces make their way through the Bramall Lane doors in the summer won't be introverted players, that doesn't fit Wilder's team. Similarly, they won't cost shedloads, mostly because the club don't have that money anyway, but primarily as it's going to be the morale of the squad which will be Sheffield's biggest weapon next season. Welcome back, Sheffield United! @SUFC_tweets are #PL pic.twitter.com/9XFvzodCt9   Premier League (@premierleague) April 28, 2019 Both clubs operate in glaringly dissimilar ways, yet could pose equal quantities of danger to the Premier League when it all kicks off again on Saturday 10 August.


Kyle Larson has qualifying down at Sonoma (Calif.) Raceway, now he'd like to add a trip to Victory Lane as well. Larson dominated both rounds of qualifying on Saturday, using an average lap speed of 95.712 mph to win the pole for Sunday's Toyota Save Mart 350 for the third consecutive season. . "I guess the trend with my three poles is winning a pole and then struggling in the race. Hopefully, we'll have something different for tomorrow," Larson said. "I feel good. "We did a mock run yesterday in practice and ran a good lap. I kind of over-drove the first session and then the next session I said, 'I'm going to calm down and not make any mistakes' and I probably under-drove just a little. "In the Carousel I think I gave up a little speed but I feel like I made up some time in other areas, too. It's cool to get a third pole at my home track." The pole is Larson's first of the 2019 Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series season and eighth of his career. William Byron ended up second (95.669 mph) and Joey Logano was third (95.618 mph). Chase Elliott and Daniel Suarez completed the top-five. Rounding out the top 12 starters are Denny Hamlin, Kyle Busch, Martin Truex Jr., Ryan Blaney, Chris Buescher, Jimmie Johnson and Alex Bowman. Round 1 Larson, looking for his third consecutive pole at Sonoma, got off to a strong start, leading the way in the first 20-minute session. Larson's average lap speed of 95.901 mph topped Suarez (95.781 mph) and Byron (95.687 mph). Logano was fourth and Blaney completed the top-five. Also advancing to the final round were Buescher, Kyle Busch, Bowman, Hamlin, Elliott, Johnson and Truex. Among those who failed to advance were Michael McDowell; three Stewart-Haas Racing cars   Clint Bowyer, Aric Almirola and Kevin Harvick; Brad Keselowski; Austin Dillon; Bubba Wallace; and Erik Jones. "I think we have a good car. I felt like it was really good on the long run yesterday, it's hard to have the best of both worlds here," Almirola said. "Sometimes you sacrifice the short-run speed." Jones had trouble in Turn 1 on his initial lap as he fell off the pace with a flat left-rear tire. He then had to limp his way on the entire track back to pit road, which did extensive damage to the left-rear wheel well. "It was flat the whole lap, I just didn't know it, I was sliding all over the place," Jones said. Jones will have to move to a backup car which will entail him starting Sunday's race from the rear of the field. Cla#Driver ManufacturerTimeGapMph 1 42 Kyle Larson Chevrolet 1'34.784 95.712 2 24 William Byron Chevrolet 1'34.827 0.043 95.669 3 22 Joey Logano Ford 1'34.878 0.094 95.618 4 9 Chase Elliott Chevrolet 1'34.898 0.114 95.597 5 41 Daniel Suarez Ford 1'35.260 0.476 95.234 6 11 Denny Hamlin Toyota 1'35.287 0.503 95.207 7 18 Kyle Busch Toyota 1'35.367 0.583 95.127 8 19 Martin Truex Jr. Toyota 1'35.399 0.615 95.095 9 12 Ryan Blaney Ford 1'35.507 0.723 94.988 10 37 Chris Buescher Chevrolet 1'35.668 0.884 94.828 11 48 Jimmie Johnson Chevrolet 1'36.156 1.372 94.347 12 88 Alex Bowman Chevrolet 1'36.374 1.590 94.133 13 34 Michael McDowell Ford 1'35.449 0.665 95.046 14 14 Clint Bowyer Ford 1'35.485 0.701 95.010 15 10 Aric Almirola Ford 1'35.624 0.840 94.872 16 1 Kurt Busch Chevrolet 1'35.746 0.962 94.751 17 17 Ricky Stenhouse Jr. Ford 1'35.749 0.965 94.748 18 38 David Ragan Ford 1'35.821 1.037 94.677 19 95 Matt DiBenedetto Toyota 1'35.926 1.142 94.573 20 47 Ryan Preece Chevrolet 1'36.070 1.286 94.431 21 6 Ryan Newman Ford 1'36.106 1.322 94.396 22 2 Brad Keselowski Ford 1'36.118 1.334 94.384 23 4 Kevin Harvick Ford 1'36.130 1.346 94.372 24 21 Paul Menard Ford 1'36.281 1.497 94.224 25 8 Daniel Hemric Chevrolet 1'36.294 1.510 94.211 26 3 Austin Dillon Chevrolet 1'36.457 1.673 94.052 27 32 Corey Lajoie Ford 1'36.484 1.700 94.026 28 36 Matt Tifft Ford 1'36.781 1.997 93.737 29 96 Parker Kligerman Toyota 1'37.006 2.222 93.520 30 43 Darrell Wallace Jr. Chevrolet 1'37.020 2.236 93.506 31 13 Ty Dillon Chevrolet 1'37.040 2.256 93.487 32 20 Erik Jones Toyota 1'37.530 2.746 93.018 33 77 Justin Haley Chevrolet 1'37.911 3.127 92.656 34 52 Cody Ware Ford 1'38.432 3.648 92.165 35 00 Landon Cassill Chevrolet 1'38.719 3.935 91.897 36 51 J.J. Yeley Ford 1'39.161 4.377 91.488 37 15 Kyle Weatherman Chevrolet 1'42.283 7.499 88.695 38 27 Reed Sorenson Chevrolet


The world's most powerful 2.0 litre, four-cylinder series production engine has been revealed by Mercedes-AMG , set to feature in its upcoming '45' model range. Developing 415bhp in its most potent 'S' form, this completely new 2.0 turbo replaces the engine in used in the previous A45 A-Class , CLA45 and GLA45 . Despite the potency of the outgoing A45 355/376bhp AMG four, engine development boss Ralf Illenberger says that emission requirements, the desire for more power, less weight and the different packaging requirements of Mercedes' latest generation of compact cars necessitated a complete redesign. "The only carryover parts are a few nuts and bolts." The new M139 engine produces 382bhp in standard form and 415bhp in 'S' form, and 354lb ft or 369lb ft of torque. Another major aim has been extracting a sportier driving experience from the engine by altering its torque delivery. While the previous, M133 four cylinder engine's torque curve resembled a diesel's, rising steeply to level off across a wide chunk of the rev range, the new M139 2.0 produces more of a crescendo of thrust. The aim is to produce the rising rush of acceleration characteristic of a revvy, normally aspirated engine. Rather than flat-lining, diesel-style, from around 2000rpm, AMG's new engine generates peak torque at 5200rpm, while nevertheless producing more shove than the old between 1000-2000rpm, the strongest surge developing from 3000rpm. Overall, says Illenberger, "it produces a more sporty delivery." More diesel-like are the 160 bar combustion pressures generated by the new unit, and a lighter yet more robust cylinder block developed to withstand them. It's of the closed deck variety, creating a crankcase casting more like a part-closed box rather than a semi-open one, with deep, strengthening skirts around the cylinders. The new alloy block is as strong as a diesel engine's, says Illenberger. The 16-valve cylinder head is also new, a key design challenge being the dispersal of the considerable heat generated. Larger exhaust valves and valve seats, a redesigned water jacket, oil, water and air chilling for the turbo and separate coolant plumbing for the cylinder head and cylinder block allow more efficient and protective control of under-bonnet temperatures, assisted by electrically controlled water pumps. The head itself features 'Camtronic' variable inlet and exhaust valve control and dual injectors per cylinder. A single piezo-injector per cylinder would be at the upper limit of its fuel volume delivery, says Illenberger, so a second quartet of injectors sits within the inlet manifold tracts to boost delivery under hard acceleration. The Camtronic system enables two camshaft profiles to provide a blend of good fuel economy and heightened throttle response. The vanes of a sizeable turbocharger run in low-friction roller bearings, an electric wastegate minimising the loss of boost when pressure modulation is required. The turbo now lives between the engine and the front bulkhead, the cylinder head having been turned through 180 degrees in order to fit the engine beneath the lower bonnet lines of the new models. The turbo's new location requires extra cooling, some of this provided by and engine cover shaped to direct fan-generated airflow over it. Illenberger says that the electric water pumps may also function after the engine has been switched off, to cool the block, head and turbo. The more potent 'S' version sometimes harnesses the air conditioner for cooling too. Besides designing an all-new engine AMG has also developed a more streamlined way to make it. Each engine is still built under the 'one man, one engine' approach long used by the company   there are several women hand-assembling these engines too, incidentally   the methods of electronically recording the sequence of and torque applied to each power-tool-attached component streamlined to save time. The new arrangement also improves assembly ergonomics. The new methods cut the production time by 20 to 25%, says plant manager Alexander Kurz, enabling AMG's four-cylinder manufacturing facility to produce 140 engines per day over two shifts. The first car to feature this unit will be the A 45 in July, the CLA 45 saloon appearing near-simultaneously, the GLA 45 a little later.


Shares of private prisons GEO Group and CoreCivic took a hit Friday after presidential candidate Senator Elizabeth Warren tweeted about about her plan to terminate them. GEO slid as much as 5.8%, its biggest intraday loss since March, and CoreCivic retreated as much as 6%, the largest intraday decline this year. Warren, a Massachusetts Democrat, said in a tweet that "private prison companies have spent millions to turn our criminal and immigration policies into ones that prioritize making them rich instead of keeping us safe  with terrible consequences. Today I'm announcing my plan to end this private profiteering off of cruelty." The plan calls for banning private prisons and detention facilities, stopping contractors from charging service fees for essential services, and expanding oversight. But with Republicans controlling the Senate, Warren will likely hit a wall with her proposal without some GOP support. Private prisons have been targeted by Warren in the past, when the senator said she was looking into the system's approval process, saying the group accrediting operators appears to be a "conflicted party" that doesn't hold facilities accountable. Related video: Private prisons cashing in on migrant crisis - but who's paying? (provided by NBC News)


This pet parrot sang his version of a popular kids' song perched on top of the couch.