Everyone is enamored with Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, and rightly so. The NFL MVP did throw for 5,097 yards and 50 touchdowns in his first season as a starter. Don't be so quick to take Mahomes as QB1 in fantasy football; there could be a new sheriff in town. Think about it: Mahomes is due a regression. It would be catching lightning in a bottle twice if Mahomes duplicated his 2019 season, and that may be a tall order given the situation with Tyreek Hill, his No. 1 receiver. Sure, Mahomes will be a top-5 quarterback, but maybe not the fantasy points generator he was in 2018. Who could fill Mahomes' spot? Try Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson. Watson has arguably the best wide receiver in the NFL in DeAndre Hopkins. Catching 105 passes with out a single drop in 2018 is very impressive. The former first rounder literally has the best hands at receiver than anyone else in the NFL. Not only does Watson have Hopkins but a dynamic but often injured Will Fuller. Fuller has been great when he is on the field. Hauling in four touchdowns in seven games last season before an injury occurred, and seven touchdowns in 10 games. The one two punch of Hopkins and Fuller makes the Texans a very dangerous wide out group. Add in Watson and there is no reason he should not be the QB1 in fantasy football in 2019. Watson's ability to escape the pocket and run the ball is also and added reason of why he will be the QB1 as he rushed for a total 551 yards and five touchdowns last season. The one knock that Watson does have is the fact the Texans have had very bad offensive line. Texans general manager Brian Gaine did address this in the offseason. Gaine drafted not one but two offensive tackles in the first two rounds of the draft as well as sign former first rounder Matt Kalil. The Texans offensive line can only improve. When you look at what Watson has been able to do under center in Houston it is truly amazing that the former Clemson Tiger has been able to produce the way he has. Let's not forget that Watson was on pace for 41 touchdowns in his rookie season before he blew out his ACL in on Nov. 2, 2017, the Thursday before the first game against the Indianapolis Colts. The offensive line was in worse shape then that what it is now. Give Watson a healthy offensive line in 2019, paired with two dynamic wide receivers and along with Watsons dynamic playmaking and rushing ability there's no reason Watson won't be fantasy footballs QB1 in 2019. MORE: The full story from the guy who got Danica Patrick a drink at the Bucks-Celtics game NBA Free Agency 2019: The top players 3 Raiders players who could have breakout seasons in 2019 Richard Sherman: 'The secondary wasn't the issue last year' Rumor: LeBron made a visit to Kawhi Leonard during Raptors-Sixers series


Video by CBS News A fter a multi-hour standoff between a man and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, neighbors formed a human chain to prevent him and his 12-year-old son from being detained. The standoff began early Monday morning in Hermitage, Tennessee after the man and his son, who were in a van parked in their driveway, were blocked in by an ICE vehicle. The two refused to emerge and alerted neighbors and immigration activists who began bringing food, water, and gas to the van. Nashville police were called by ICE, but didn't assist with the apprehension. Rather, they stood by to "keep the peace if necessary." After multiple hours, the group of those assisting the man formed a human chain around him and his son to shuffle them from the vehicle and into their house, and then once more to move them from their house to a car in order to drive away. "I was real scared about what was going on," neighbor Felishadae Young said. "It put a lot of fear in me, because it could be me. It could be my family. It could be anybody. It could be your neighbors, just like it was my neighbor today." ICE spokesman Bryan Cox said that ICE officers decided to leave the scene without making an arrest in an attempt to "de-escalate the situation."


Not too long ago, it was commonplace for people across the globe to die horrific, painful, disfiguring deaths from illnesses they couldn't control. Today, many of those diseases have begun to disappear. In many parts of the developed world, some of the worst of these diseases are gone completely. Their disappearance is a testament to the power of vaccines. Yet these diseases still exist in many other countries, and public health workers are working hard to contain their spread and increase peoples' access to the shots and pills we often take for granted. 1. Smallpox Smallpox is a serious, contagious, and sometimes fatal disease. Its first symptoms are fairly mild, and include fever, fatigue, and body aches. Within days, these less severe signs give way to more serious problems which leave an infected person contagious for about a month. First, small red spots on the tongue and mouth transform into painful sores that break open and spread the virus into the mouth and throat. Then, a rash blossoms on the skin, starting on the face and spreading all over the body   usually in less than a day. In a few days, the rash transforms into a series of raised bumps, which quickly fill with a thick, creamy liquid. The bumps typically have tiny depressions in the center that look like a bellybutton. The bumps soon become tiny, hard knobs   some people liken them to having BB gun pellets under the skin. Those form a crust over the skin, then scab and eventually fall off. Thankfully, the last case of smallpox in the US was nearly six decades ago, in 1949, after a successful vaccination campaign. The last global case of the disease occurred in 1977, after access to the vaccine had spread enough to wipe the disease from the globe. 2. Measles Like smallpox, measles is highly contagious. Its most serious complications include blindness, severe diarrhea, serious respiratory infections, and encephalitis, a severe infection that causes brain swelling. New research also finds that measles can have a crippling, sometimes long term effect on children's immune systems for years after an initial infection, leaving them susceptible to other infectious diseases. The vaccine, the research suggests, protects against this. The good news is that aside from a scary outbreak in California last December   which research suggests was caused by a growing number of parents refusing vaccinations for their children   measles has been largely eliminated in most affluent countries, and deaths from measles across the globe have dropped by 75% since 2000. Still, the virus is still common in many developing countries , particularly in parts of Africa and Asia, but the WHO has plans to eliminate the disease globally by 2020. 3. Polio Polio is a crippling and sometimes deadly infectious disease. There is no cure. Most cases of the disease   somewhere between 90% and 95%   cause no symptoms, making it easy for an infected person to get another person sick. In those cases, people can recover within a few weeks. In about 1% of cases, however, or around 1 in 200 cases, polio can leave its sufferers with permanent physical disabilities. In these cases, the virus spreads along the pathways inside the nerve fibers in the spinal cord, brain stem, or motor cortex, the movement-controlling part of the brain. Once inside, polio eats away at the nerves inside these parts of the body that allow us to move. Among people with polio who become paralyzed, about 5% to 10% die when the muscles that control their breathing are rendered immobile by the virus. In the last 3 decades, cases of polio across the globe have plummeted, dropping nearly 99% since 1988. That year, the World Health Assembly resolved to globally eradicate polio, and several international health organizations joined in the effort to disseminate the vaccine worldwide. As of last year, just 3 countries still see regular cases of polio: Nigeria, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, and efforts are underway to eradicate the disease completely. 4. Guinea worm If you've never heard of Guinea worm, consider yourself lucky. It's caused by a parasite caused dracunculiasis which means "affliction with little dragons" in Latin. Like it sounds, Guinea worm is painful. While not typically fatal, Guinea worm can be permanently debilitating, especially in children. As it winds its way through the body, the worm   which thrives in dirty water   can destroy the muscles and tissue surrounding a knee or inside a foot, for example, leaving young children unable to walk for the rest of their lives. Fortunately for eradication efforts though, Guinea worm is caused by just a single parasite, meaning that so long as health workers can track down all the people infected with it and prevent any new cases of infection, they can wipe it out. Today, there are just 126 cases of Guinea worm left globally, down from nearly 3.5 million in 1986. According to the health NGO The Carter Center, Guinea worm "is set to become the second human disease in history, after smallpox, to be eradicated." 5. Rubella Rubella is a highly contagious disease whose worst effects are seen in fetuses within their mother's first trimester. In young people and adults, rubella most often causes an all-over body rash and cold-like symptoms that typically clear in a few days. In fetuses, though, rubella can cause deafness, blindness, and severe brain damage. A 1964-1965 rubella outbreak in the US caused roughly 11,250 abortions, 2,100 stillborns, and 20,000 babies born with defects. Last month, though, rubella was officially declared eliminated from the Americas, a region defined by the World Health Organization to include the US, Canada, Cuba, and Central and South America. Still, roughly 120,000 children a year are born across the globe with severe rubella-related birth defects, so there's still work to do. 6. Lymphatic filariasis (elephantiasis) Lymphatic filariasis is caused by parasitic roundworms carried by mosquitoes and occurs in nearly 100 countries in Africa and Asia. In many cases, people are first infected with the parasites as children, but the their damage to the immune system often goes unseen until adulthood, when they develop visible symptoms. The most noticeable of these is elephantiasis, or when parts of the body swell to massive proportions. Adult worms lodge in the network of tissues and organs that filter lymph fluid, blocking the immune system from functioning normally. The worms, which live about 7 years, produce millions of baby worms throughout their lifetime that circulate throughout an infected person's blood. The WHO aims to eliminate lymphatic filariasis by 2020 using medicines that effectively clear baby parasites from the blood and prevent them from spreading to new mosquitoes. When this is done in an area repeatedly for about 5 years, it can wipe out the disease. 7. Onchocerciasis (river blindness) Like Guinea worm, river blindness is an infection caused by a parasite. Small, black flies that live near rivers across Sub-Saharan Africa and South America carry the worms that cause it. Once they get inside the skin, the worms mate and reproduce. Each day, one worm can spawn another thousand baby worms. As they spread throughout the body of an infected person, the parasites infect the skin and eyes, where they can cause blindness, skin discoloration, intense itching and rashes. Public health workers are working to eliminate the disease   or at least limit its spread   by giving out a medicine called Mectizan, which kills the parasite larvae in the body (and can prevent blindness) and blocks the virus from spreading to others. Still, river blindness isn't likely to go away completely any time soon, since it remains widespread in 36 countries. The Carter Center hopes to at least wipe it out of South America in the next few years, since that region accounts for less than 1% of all cases. 8. Mumps Mumps is a contagious disease that typically causes the salivary glands in your cheeks and jaw to swell. It starts with symptoms that include headache, muscle aches, fatigue, and loss of appetite. After the salivary glands swell up, the virus typically clears in about a week or two. It's estimated that as many as 1 in 5 people who come down with mumps have no symptoms. In rare cases, mumps can result in severe complications that include encephalitis or meningitis (swelling of the brain or spinal cord), swelling of the ovaries or breasts (in women and girls who've reached puberty), and deafness. Before children in the US started getting routinely vaccinated against mumps (the "MMR vaccine" is typically given in 2 doses and is 97% effective against mumps, measles, and rubella), it was a common illness in children and young adults. In 1964, there were roughly 212,000 cases in the US. Today, mumps outbreaks are rare, although they do happen occasionally, such as the 2009 outbreak that involved about 3,500 cases, primarily in New York.


The Cowboys drafted Trysten Hill with high hopes. The rookie, though, needs work to get into game shape. The second-round choice   the Cowboys' top choice after trading their first-round pick to the Raiders for Amari Cooper   didn't make it through his first practice. He was carted off with cramps. Hill made 71 tackles, 20 tackles for loss and six sacks in his career at Central Florida. Before he even played his first game, Hill was tabbed as the best under tackle that defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli has had in Dallas. Defensive passing game coordinator Kris Richard declared Hill to have "generational-type athleticism."


Imagine a relaxing stroll in the park becoming a nightmare when a falling branch results in an emergency room visit. Even the most cost-conscious consumer   if it's a patient who's lost consciousness   has no control over which hospital the ambulance chooses. Scenarios like this happen, and where the ambulance delivers you can result in dramatically different bills. For patients who have private insurance or are covered under public programs, there may be a buffer against high charges. For uninsured patients, they are left on their own to negotiate the price of their care. A recent study found that there is enormous variation across hospitals in terms of what they charge. The study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health generated headlines declaring that hospitals are charging the uninsured more than 10 times the cost of care. This report focuses attention on the fact that health care pricing lacks transparency. It compared what hospitals charge for a procedure to what Medicare   the federal health care program for elderly and disabled   would actually pay the hospital for the care. On average, hospitals charge nearly 3.5 times the Medicare rates. The report found that the top 20 hospitals charge more than 10 times the Medicare rate. The Medicare rate is set by the federal government. And 49 of the 50 hospitals with the highest charges were for-profit hospitals. Half of them were owned by a single chain. Many cry price-gouging, but the response from the for-profit hospital industry claims the study is an unfair assessment of hospital prices. They assert that charges are not a relevant measure of what consumers, insurers or government programs pay for services. To be fair, what hospitals charge and what they expect patients to pay are generally two very different numbers. For patients covered by the other large public program, Medicaid (a federal/state program for low income individuals and families), the government sets the rates. Privately insured patients reap the benefit of discounts that their insurers are able to negotiate off of the initial charge. So, does the sticker price really matter? Well, yes it does. Many claim that hospitals increase the rates charged to hike reimbursement from payers. For example, starting with higher rates in negotiations on insurance discounts can drive up even these discounted prices. Who is likely to pay the highly inflated, sticker-price rate? To begin, patients with no insurance may be asked to pay the highest rates. Insured patients who seek care from an out-of-network provider may also end up paying the sticker price. Same, too, for patients covered by workers compensation insurance or automobile personal injury protection. Both for-profit and nonprofit hospitals claim that few patients pay the sticker price. This may be true, but how would the average patient even know? For patients of nonprofit hospitals, this should be easy to assess. Obamacare included a provision that all nonprofit hospitals must have written financial (charity care) assistance policies that are to be posted on the hospital website. The policy should explain how the sticker rate is discounted for patients who qualify for assistance. One way to find these assistance policies is to do a search for charity care or financial assistance using the hospital website's search function. For patients at for-profit hospitals, it is not so simple. They are not subject to the same Obamacare rules since they do not get federal tax-exemptions. However, even for-profit hospitals claim to give breaks to uninsured patients   though the terms of those discounts can be rather opaque. And if you don't know about these discounts, you may be billed the sticker price, be hounded for payment and have your credit ruined if the bill is sent to collection and reported to the credit bureaus. What to Do If You Get a Big Bill Here is some solid advice for anyone with a large hospital bill. First, contact the hospital and ask if it is a for-profit or nonprofit hospital. If the hospital is a nonprofit, ask for a copy of their financial assistance policy. They are required under federal law to provide it to you. The policy should outline whether assistance is available to both insured and uninsured patients and explain how to apply. If the hospital is a for-profit, ask them whether they have a financial assistance or charity care policy. If you are uninsured, ask about their uninsured discount policy. Ask them for a copy of their policy. Let them know if you need help with your bill, and apply for assistance. Just remember, the for-profit hospitals are not required to offer it   though many do. A final note on the research: The industry claims that few patients pay the sticker price. If you feel that you are being charged an inflated rate for services, ask the hospital for an itemized bill that breaks out all discounts and assistance provided. And if you are still puzzled by the bill, look for a qualified health care consumer advocate to help you resolve it. [ Editor's note: It's important to check your credit reports regularly for accuracy and for your own information. You can see whether any medical debts are affecting your credit by getting your free annual credit reports from AnnualCreditReport.com. ] This story is an Op/Ed contribution to Credit.com and does not necessarily represent the views of the company or its affiliates. This article originally appeared on Credit.com .


The Tampa Bay Buccaneers face their first preseason test next week when they travel to Pittsburgh to take on the Steelers. Normally, preseason records hold little merit. For instance, the Cleveland Browns were a perfect 4-0 during the 2017 preseason, only to go on and finish 0-16 in the regular season. But, when you are a team like the Tampa Bay Buccaneers who are looking to turn the page on the Dirk Koetter-era and begin the next chapter in their storied history, winning any games - preseason or otherwise - is important. Especially when you consider the fact that the Bucs haven't had a winning record in the preseason since 2008. Here's the year-by-year breakdown of the Bucs' preseason records from 2008 to 2018. 2008: 3-1 2009: 1-3 2010: 2-2 2011: 2-2 2012: 2-2 2013: 1-3 2014: 1-3 2015: 2-2 2016: 2-2 2017: 1-3 2018: 2-2 Sure, preseason games feature a variety of lineups, with starters usually sitting all of the fourth and final game. But, in 2008 Tampa Bay had a winning preseason record and went on to finish the year 9-7. They'd miss the playoffs and Jon Gruden would soon be out as coach, but I'm sure the 2019 Buccaneers would love to finish 9-7, especially when you consider their tough schedule . Starting the postseason with a win in Pittsburgh would go a long way in building this team's confidence going forward. Hopefully, the team is up to the challenge. MORE: Fox Sports Announces 2019 NFL Broadcast Teams Baker Mayfield's sassy response to Jets' trash talk won over the Browns offensive line Observations from Lions training camp, Day 6: Tracy Walker making noise Packers coach Matt LaFleur sidelines Josh Jones after practice fight 6 Saints players who are making the most of training camp


The Denver Broncos defeated the Atlanta Falcons 14-10 in the Hall of Fame Game on Thursday evening. Check out the game highlights above, courtesy of the NFL. MORE: Hiker stalked by cougar says Metallica song helped her escape Winners and losers from first week of Raiders training camp Bears defense continues to dominate on Day 6 of training camp Five potential Jeremy Lin landing spots in free agency Steven Jackson gets random drug test from NFL after signing 1-day contract


YORK, Pa. -- Investigators release the name of a man killed during a shooting in York. They identified the victim as Kyle Otto of York. Police are now saying the suspects involved are part of violent groups in the city. A balloon blows in the wind and candles burn on Smith Street; it's where York City Police say those shots rang out just before 3:30 Saturday morning. The gunfire came just hours after Otto celebrated his 31st birthday. "I was sleeping, and I woke up to six gunshots," said Joey Smith, who stays with his girlfriend on Smith Street. "I thought I was dreaming. I woke up out of it. The dog's going off, going crazy downstairs. [I] seen the corpse and everything. It looks like a whole bunch of fireworks went off, but it wasn't fireworks." Smith doesn't live on Smith Street, but his girlfriend and her kids do. One of the bullets fired through a window at a home directly across the street. "What runs through your mind in that situation?" asked FOX43's Grace Griffaton. "Panic, scared, frightened, and safety of my family. It was like a horror movie but in reality," responded Smith The reality: police are calling a homicide. The coroner says it could be York County's 6th this year. "I've had enough of this. It's not right for my family or nothing like that so I think it's only best for us to move," added Smith. Despite that, Smith believes it's in the city's best interest to follow Lancaster City's lead and invest in more surveillance. "Cameras is a must. Got to do it because York is becoming the wild, wild West out here," he added. Lancaster's camera system is run by an outside organization. A York City spokesman says groups have considered taking on a similar project. York City Police say they do have leads but not enough evidence to formally identify suspects or make an arrest.     ©2019 WPMT-TV, Harrisburg Visit WPMT-TV, Harrisburg at www.fox43.com Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.


Newcastle United is going to make one more push to keep fan-loved manager Rafa Benitez , but it's not looking good for his future on Tyneside beyond June 30. The Telegraph says Rafa Benitez is likely to walk away from Newcastle United when his contract expires at the end of the month. [ MORE: USMNT faces T&T for first time since Couva ] It's another fight over money, for the most part, with owner Mike Ashley also involved in multiple takeover reports. And Benitez is reportedly subject to a $15 million per-year offer from Asia. Benitez has been told he will have around ($77 million) in this summer's window and can also raise money from player sales. But, although exceptions could be made, he was also warned that the club could not sanction long-term deals for players over the age of 28, particularly as he was only considering a one-year extension himself. That last part makes sense, especially if Benitez were to saddle the Magpies with a long-term deal on a player he favors but may not be the next guy's cup of tea (Salomon Rondon). Additionally, the Evening Chronicle has a number of big names linked with taking Benitez's place, including former French boss Laurent Blanc, recently freed AC Milan manager Gennaro Gattuso, and David Moyes . Believe it or not, Arsene Wenger is also mentioned should Ashley be willing to spend more (so maybe mentioning him is a bit much). Blanc or Gattuso is believable, and might be palatable for the currently disgusted supporter base, but hiring an ex-Sunderland failure in Moyes would likely send an already livid group through the roof. Then again, the organization did twice hire Joe Kinnear. Follow @NicholasMendola


A nearly 5-foot-long alligator was found living in a lagoon in one of Chicago's most popular parks Tuesday night and officials are not saying how the creature could've ended up there. Chicago police received unconfirmed reports on social media early Tuesday that a possible alligator was seen swimming in the Humboldt Park lagoon in the city's busy West Side. BIOLOGIST ON UPTICK IN ALLIGATOR ATTACKS, INCIDENT INVOLVING CORPSE: 'THE POPULATIONS HAVE EXPLODED' Several hours later, Chief Communications Officer Anthony Guglielmi confirmed that authorities spotted the gator and that a state reptile specialist put the alligator at somewhere between four to- five feet long. Guglielmi said that an effort to "humanely" capture the animal would be made sometime Tuesday night. Authorities said they plan to relocate the gator to a zoo for "veterinary evaluation." Spokeswoman for Chicago Animal Care and Control Jenny Schlueter told FOX32 that the mysterious alligator may have been a pet that was released into the wild after getting too big. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP A similar incident occurred in 2011 when two alligators were spotted just weeks apart in the Chicago River. Police said at the time that the animals were likely pets that had been released. Alligators favor warm weather climates such as Florida but have been known to survive temporarily in the cold through a process similar to hibernation. The Associated Press contributed to this report.


Some familiar names will be on the Jets coaching staff at training camp this summer. The team announced Wednesday that it is bringing in D'Brickashaw Ferguson and Calvin Pace as scouting interns for training camp, while former Steelers great Hines Ward will be a coaching intern for the summer. David Clowney IV, Stephen Bravo-Brown and Damon Reginald Wilson will all be coaching interns as well. These jobs are all a part of the NFL's Football Development program. D'Brickashaw Ferguson, Calvin Pace and Hines Ward are among those joining our football staff for #JetsCamp . https://t.co/c6x6ZaphZL pic.twitter.com/b1MLJJOrp4 - New York Jets (@nyjets) July 24, 2019 Ferguson held down the left tackle position in New York from 2006 to 2015. He never missed a game in his career and held a streak of 167 consecutive games started for the Jets, which is the second most in franchise history. Pace was with the Jets from 2008 to 2015 and racked up 46 sacks and 16 forced fumbles in his time in New York. As for Ward, he spent his entire career with the Steelers and is on track to becoming a Hall of Fame player. He finished his career with 1,000 receptions for 12,083 yards with 85 touchdowns and was also a four-time Pro Bowler and a two-time Super Bowl champion. These are some strong names that can help out the Jets immediately. Ferguson was one of the best at his position, so he knows a good offensive lineman when he sees one. Pace was a solid pass rusher and knows the position very well and Ward can be a strong voice for the Jets wide receivers. Meanwhile, the trio of former players will benefit from the experience, which could serve as a springboard for new career now that their NFL careers are over. MORE: Mike Trout's perfect 98.6 MPH throw to home plate had everyone in awe What might Kostas Antetokounmpo bring to the Lakers on offense? Packers releasing veteran DL Mike Daniels Roundup: Boris Johnson Named UK PM; Tay-K Sentenced to 55 Years; Tornado in Cape Cod Why are the Jets picking this fight with Quinnen Williams?


West Ham are set to confirm midfielder Robert Snodgrass has agreed a new long-term contract, with an official announcement expected soon. The 31-year-old's current deal is set to expire in the summer of 2020. However, 90min understands that after an impressive season with the Hammers, the club hierarchy have moved to tie the winger down to new terms for the foreseeable future. The Scotland international joined West Ham for around £10m back in January 2017 after shining for Hull City. However, he endured a difficult start to his career at the London Stadium and was loaned out to Aston Villa for the 2017/18 season as vice-chairman Karren Brady criticised his signing in a column for The Sun. Despite added competition from marquee signings like £42m Felipe Anderson, Snodgrass returned to West Ham for the 2018/19 season, scoring his first ever goals for the club in the 8-0 win over Macclesfield in the EFL Cup back in September. Snodgrass became a regular under Manuel Pellegrini, playing 38 times in all competitions last season, while only five players played more Premier League minutes for the Hammers. He had been linked with a loan move to Leeds this summer back that now appears to be off the table, with the new contract a clear sign of Pellegrini's happiness with the veteran star. He earns £60,000-a-week on his current terms. West Ham have been active in the transfer market so far, signing Euro Under-21 winner Pablo Fornals from Villarreal for £24m as well as free deals for Roberto and David Martin.


It's 2019 and we're still arguing about the value of running backs. It happens every time a star back is up for a new contract, which is currently going on in Dallas, where Ezekiel Elliott is reportedly thinking about holding out of Cowboys training camp while waiting on a new long-term deal. On one side of the debate, you have the nerds - who have worked tirelessly over the last few years to prove that running backs don't matter - pushing back against the notion that Elliott is the Cowboys' most valuable offensive player. On the other side, you have former NFL players - at least a vocal group of them - arguing the opposite. For instance, here's former Cowboys LB Bobby Carpenter breaking down two plays that show how important Elliott is to the play-action passing game… Dak is a good young QB but his play action passing is 30% better when Zeke is on the field. It's why @EzekielElliott needs to be on the field for Dallas this season and if he holds out they have to pay him @GetUpEspn pic.twitter.com/AHJAgJ4nim - Bobby Carpenter (@Bcarp3) July 16, 2019 Here's former NFL offensive lineman Geoff Schwartz co-signing Carpenter's assertion… IMO, Zeke is the only running back that's not at all replaceable in the slightest. His ability to rush in that offense and more importantly what he does in the screen/pass game is the Cowboys offense. https://t.co/CWL2rTZQBy - Geoff Schwartz (@geoffschwartz) July 16, 2019 And here's former NFL QB Dan Orlovsky backing Carpenter up, as well… Great piece Bob -people don't understand. Zeke isn't good. Zeke isn't really good. Zeke's numbers are on par with only guys who became HOF'ers. He's on that trajectory -last year if Zeke got 23 touches they won. If he didn't, they lost (every game but 1) -dude is their O - Dan Orlovsky (@danorlovsky7) July 16, 2019 Of course, the nerds have looked into all of the popular defenses for the value of running backs and have shown that there's nothing to them. Running back targets aren't very productive in the grand scheme of things, there's no proof that running volume or success has any effect on a team's play-action performance, the success of a given run play has a lot more to do with the number of defenders in the box than it does the performance of a running back, the same can be said of offensive line play, etc… But let's just ignore all of those league-wide trends and focus on Elliott. As the former pros have pointed out, Elliott's role in the Cowboys offense is unique. So let's look at the two main arguments people generally make when arguing on behalf of Elliott… 1. Without Elliott drawing defenders into the box, Dak Prescott wouldn't be as effective of a passer This argument isn't exclusive to Zeke and Dak. You hear this all the time about great backs and even great quarterbacks. There was a time when a bunch of people thought Marshawn Lynch made Russell Wilson. You've heard the trope: A great back forces defenses to load the box, which opens up space in the passing game . Here's the thing: There's no evidence to suggest that the reputation of a running back or quarterback has any bearing on how many players an NFL defense packs into the box. Elliott's presence certainly did not draw any more loaded boxes. According to NFL.com's Next Gen Stats, Elliott faced an eight-man box on 24.67% of his carries, which ranked 19th in the league in 2018. He finished right behind fellow generational back Elijah McGuire. Wait. In order to get that extra defender in the box, the defense has to drop a safety down near the line of scrimmage, forcing the defense to play with only one safety deep. So, if Elliott was forcing defenses to load up against the run and opening up things in the passing game, you'd expect a significant portion of Prescott's passing attempts to have come against single-high coverages. According to Sports Info Solutions charting data, Prescott ranked 10th (out of 22 quarterbacks who attempted at least 200 passes vs. those coverages) in the percentage of attempts vs. single-high defenses. So he was right around league average in that regard. As it turns out, that number isn't significant, anyway. Like at all. There doesn't seem to be any correlation between the reputation of a quarterback (or a running back) and the percentage of single-high looks an offense faces. The correlation between a quarterback's Pro Football Focus grade and percentage of attempts vs. two-high coverages was literally ZERO over the course of the 2018 season… The same is true with a running back's reputation and the percentage of one-high coverages a quarterback faces… A team's willingness to drop an extra player into the box has more to do with the structure of an offense more than anything else. If the offensive formation creates an extra gap by adding a tight end or full back to the equation, the defense is going to have to add a defender in the box to account for it, regardless of the running back's reputation. While the Cowboys other backs did see fewer lighter boxes than Elliott, the difference was marginal (38% to 35%) and the sample size was small. On top of ALL THAT, Prescott actually performed better against coverages with two deep safeties. He averaged 0.13 Expected Points Added per attempt against two-high coverages and -0.05 EPA against single-high defenses. Whatever benefit provided to Dak by Zeke's presence in the backfield is not showing up in the stats. 2. Elliott's contributions as a receiver make him more valuable than the typical running back After all, Elliott did catch a career-high 77 passes in 2018. The problem is that passes to running backs are generally less valuable than other passes, and that was certainly true for Elliott, who wasn't even among the league leaders in EPA per target for running backs. In fact, he ranked 30th in that regard. The Cowboys, as a team, ranked behind all but two teams in success rate on first- and second-down passes to running backs. EPA/play and success rate on 1st & 2nd down running back targets, by team, 2018 Andy Reid the gawd pic.twitter.com/YquhveDkO8 - new-age analytical (@benbbaldwin) June 28, 2019 If Zeke is the key to the Cowboys' passing game, it's time to change the lock. Maybe Elliott would be more valuable as a pass catcher if he were capable of lining up out wide and getting open, but the Cowboys don't seem to have faith in his ability to do so. In 2018, he lined up out wide just 52 times on passing downs. Those snaps resulted in nine targets, which produced an underwhelming 58 yards, or 6.4 yards per target. Here's a cut-up of all of those targets. https://streamable.com/e/xfwlh Elliott is a good receiving back, sure, but he's not a special one. Nobody is going to confuse Elliott with Alvin Kamara or Christian McCaffery as a route-runner. But what about the screen game? Well, the Cowboys were actually quite good in the screen game, finishing 9th in EPA per screen pass. So mark that down as a win for the former pros. The Cowboys are above average at screen passes thanks to Elliott. Give him all the money for those 25 screen passes he caught in 2018! While we can't just dismiss the experience of former pros, it's also unfair for them to dismiss mountains of evidence pushing back against their arguments. Those same guys make an appeal for context that numbers, apparently, can't supply, but then turn around and give us a two-play breakdown devoid of ANY context. So let's oblige the old pros and add some context to the two plays Carpenter picked out to highlight Elliott's effect on the running game. The first example shows the Giants linebackers biting on a run fake, thus proving Elliott's value to the passing game. Now the context: New York is running a five-man pressure with man coverage across the board. The second-level defenders can afford to attack the line of scrimmage with no Cowboys receivers threatening the middle of the field. The all-22 angle shows that the play-action had no bearing on the result of the play. The cornerback slips and the free safety takes a horrible angle. Dak also throws a dime… https://gfycat.com/ifr/infinitehonoredfishingcat We're not done: The play comes on first-and-10. The Cowboys ran more often (52.8%) than they passed in those scenarios, according to SIS charting. The Cowboys were in 21 personnel (2 RB, 1 TE, 2 WR). In that personnel grouping, they ran the ball 64% of the time in 2018. All signs pointed to a run. The second example shows Giants linebackers not flinching on a play fake. Well, that play took place on second-and-6, which is a big pass down for Dallas. The Cowboys ran only 38.4% of the time in those scenarios. They're also in 12 personnel (1 RB, 2 TE, 2 WR). Out of those sets, the Cowboys passed 52% of the time. All signs pointed to a pass. It makes all the sense in the world that the Giants defenders would bite on one play fake, when the situation pointed to Dallas running and the play-call called for aggression, and ignore the other play fake. But it had nothing to do with Elliott. The same thing would have happened with Rod Smith in the backfield, as it does here… https://gfycat.com/ifr/ambitiousgrouchycanary Ezekiel Elliott is a talented running back. Unfortunately for him, a talented back doesn't really move the needle in the run game, and the running game doesn't really move the needle in the grand scheme of things. At this point, the only leverage Elliott has is unconvincing analysis based on tired cliches. His best hope is that the Cowboys' front office hasn't yet seen the blinding light the nerds have shined on this topic. MORE: See the dramatic final hand of 2019 WSOP Main Event that won Hossein Ensan $10 million Baker Mayfield swings and misses with attempted rip of Giants fans The top 100 players in the NFL today News: Cowboys' $100 million men underpaid, and more dangerous in 2019 LeBron James Boasts About '300 Mil Later' After Rich Paul Klutch Sale to UTA Related slideshow: 2019 NFL draft: The top picks (Provided by imagn)


So badly have the Red Sox floundered that the life raft they reached for Friday was a simulated game by Nathan Eovaldi at Yankee Stadium. "Nate coming back will really help us out," Boston manager Alex Cora said. "We rely on our starters, plain and simple. That fifth guy not that he's a fifth starter, but having all five starters is critical for keeping everybody in their place." Eovaldi, who will throw another life raft game Tuesday, is about two weeks away from being major league ready. Forget the grandstand narrative that Eovaldi is going to become the replacement for Craig Kimbrel at the back end of the Boston bullpen. The righthander has a frequent shopper card with orthopedists and until the World Series last year had never pitched back-to-back days in his life. He is going back into the rotation a rotation that will decide the fate of Boston's season. Urgency has come early to the Red Sox. Having split the first 58 games of their season before a win Sunday night, they have exhausted virtually the entire margin of error allowable to get to 91 wins, the average win total for the 14 American League wild-card teams in the expanded postseason format. Their model now must be the 2017 Cubs, another defending world champion that suffered through an extended hangover (33-34) before waking up (59-26) to reach 92 wins. The American League is thin, but the Yankees and Rays are legit postseason teams. Among other wild-card candidates, Oakland presents the biggest threat to keeping Boston out of the playoffs, with Texas and Cleveland looking like longer shots to get to 91 wins. You can chirp all you want about how Boston misses Kimbrel and Joe Kelly, or whether Mookie Betts should hit first or second, or how the 7-8-9 spots are hitting .221, which makes them the worst collection of Red Sox hitters at the bottom third except those of the 1918 and 1968 teams. Let's be real, folks: Nothing will determine the fate of Boston's season more than its rotation and that's the reason they're in trouble right now. Boston is spending $88 million on its rotation: Chris Sale, David Price, Rick Porcello, Eduardo Rodriguez and Eovaldi. The Red Sox spent so much on the rotation they didn't have the change to retain Kimbrel or Kelly. But the bullpen has been only marginally worse (15-7, 4.09 this year; 40-16, 3.72 last year). Boston is losing too many games in the hands of its Tiffany rotation. Check out the massive decline across the board in the Boston rotation: Red Sox Starters Boston took a calculated risk in spring training by slow-playing its starting pitchers. The idea was that they needed more rest after pitching a seventh month last season. Sale, for instance, was limited to nine spring training innings half of his average workload from his previous major league spring camps. The risk the Red Sox took was to jeopardize the first month or two of the season while they built arm strength in order to have them strong down the stretch. The injury to Eovaldi, who underwent elbow surgery, disrupted Boston's plan. Hector Velazquez took seven of Eovaldi's starts and lasted a total of 19 2/3 innings. Boston won four of those seven games, but at the toll of reliever usage. "If one guy [out of five] doesn't go deep you can withstand that," Cora said. "But if you get two it can catch up to you. Then you need two multiple inning guys. Brian Johnson was huge for us last year, and now Hector, when he was in that role. The multiple inning guys help you stay away from the [high leverage] guys." But losing one starter (or more) is something every team must anticipate before the season begins. In the previous five years, only two among 150 staffs had five pitchers make 28 starts (the 2016 Cubs and 2016 Blue Jays). Full health is an anomaly. You don't count on it. That's why the loss of Eovaldi for seven starts is overrated. The biggest enigma among the underachieving rotation is Sale. The Red Sox are 3-9 when they give him the ball. Sure, a lack of run support is baked into that record. Sale is getting his strikeouts, and while his four-seam velocity in May (94.1 mph) still isn't where it should be (95.6 last year) it's an improvement over his glorified spring training in April (92.6). But there's something odd going on with Sale's stuff. He is not maintaining it well, especially when it comes to command. His start Friday at Yankee Stadium typified his 2019 problems: he comes out of the gate mowing down hitters, but then makes mistakes with location. Here is the clearest view of Sale's problems: Sale 2019 by Innings On Friday Sale zipped through the first two innings by facing the minimum six batters, striking out three of them. But then the Yankees capitalized on mistakes by Sale to touch him for four runs. The biggest mistakes: Hanging 1-1 slider to D.J. LeMahieu for an RBI double. Hanging 3-2 slider to Aaron Hicks for 2-RBI single. Hanging 1-2 slider to Gio Urshela for double. Missed location on 1-1 below-average fastball (92 mph) to LeMahieu for home run. This was the second time in May that Sale allowed two extra base hits on his slider  he had no such starts last year . That's a tough grading curve, but the Red Sox's blueprint to be a playoff team requires Sale to pitch like an ace. Sale is a fierce competitor and a standup guy. He didn't run from his responsibility after the game or make excuses. "It's not where I want to be," he told reporters after the game. "It's not who I am. It's not who I've ever been." Kimbrel and Kelly are bona fide power relievers. They gave Boston 128 innings last year, so, sure, any team would miss arms like that. But what Boston misses even more are the better versions of Sale, Eovaldi, Price (who needed two starts to get on track), Porcello (walks are up, strikeouts down) and Rodriguez (Cora must understand Rodriguez is the worst pitcher in baseball facing a lineup the third time around: .375). There's a saying around baseball that when it comes to grading pitchers' stuff: "the hitters will tell you." Last year Boston pitchers threw the toughest fastballs to hit in all of baseball (.238). This year they rank ninth (.261). The hitters are telling you this is not the same stuff coming from this staff. The Red Sox are on the brink of trouble. They can't afford another bad month. The good news for them is that with Eovaldi coming back, they already have on hand the way to get out of this mess: it's their $88 million rotation. Related slideshow: 2019 MLB season (provided by imagn)


UConn is headed back to the Big East. The Huskies' Olympic sports are leaving the American and will compete in the Big East starting in the 2020-21 season, sources told Stadium. An official announcement could come as early as this week. UConn's departure leaves two major question marks. What is the future home of UConn football, since the Big East doesn't sponsor football? Will the American stay at 11 members or find a 12th school to replace UConn? Let's start with UConn. The Huskies will not drop football or drop down from FBS to the FCS level, multiple sources at UConn told Stadium. However, UConn doesn't have a definitive landing spot on its future football home. Sources said UConn would pursue being a football-only member with the MAC, Conference USA or even with the American. Those options, however, appear unlikely at best. Sources said it's a "non-starter" for UConn to join the MAC unless it's as a full member and UConn's chances to join C-USA "are doubtful," another source said. Some UConn personnel had hoped UConn could remain a football-only member in the American, playing some men's and women's basketball non-conference games against American opponents as part of the deal. [RELATED: When Do College Football Coaches Hit Their Recruiting Prime? ] As far as UConn's chances to remain a football-only member in the American, one source summed it up this way: "They are delusional." Multiple sources said UConn had been told a football-only membership was not possible if it left for the Big East. "We can't believe UConn even thought we would consider (allowing UConn a football-only membership), and frankly thought that was made clear to them long ago every time a rumor popped up about them and the Big East," a source said. So UConn's most likely   perhaps only   option at the FBS level is as an independent. That would be tough financially and schedule-wise; good luck getting teams to visit East Hartford, Conn., in late October or November. The Huskies also have had limited success since playing in the 2011 Fiesta Bowl. Since then, UConn has had eight consecutive losing seasons, three head coaches and one bowl appearance (a loss to Marshall in the St. Petersburg Bowl). UConn has won three or fewer games in five of the last six seasons. Last year they were 1-11, the worst record in the program's 20-year history. By leaving the American, UConn has basically admitted it doesn't aspire to   or can't   compete at the highest FBS levels. They could follow the path of Idaho, who dropped from FBS to FCS in 2018. Yet UConn sources stress this is not an option and the Huskies' football program will remain at the FBS level. But an industry source isn't as confident. "They have to say that at this point. If not, it destroys whatever chances they have to recruit." The bottom line: UConn's move to the Big East will be "popular with our fan base," a source said. "They never fully bought into the American. UConn football is so social for fans, more than X's and O's. They will come back when we win. The difference of playing East Carolina vs. playing a Western Michigan, etc., doesn't mean much to them." *** When the Big East's Catholic schools were leaving several years ago and the remaining schools had to come up with a new conference name, the "America 12 Conference" was among the favorites for the league's new name. They instead went with the American Athletic Conference, and that decision could turn out to be prophetic: The America 12 name would have been off by one in football if the league remains at 11 schools after UConn leaves. "If there was an obvious choice to be our 12th team, that would probably be the way to go," a source said. "But when the Big 12 was reportedly going to expand the last time (by taking some AAC members), our thought was we wouldn't go to 12 just to have that number." FBS independents Army and BYU are the most likely candidates for the American's 12th team, multiple sources said. "Both have many caveats," a source said. It's quite possible neither school wants to join, but as attractive as they are to the American, there are some concerns. For Army, the Black Knights have been one of college football's best stories the past couple of years. Back-to-back Commander in Chief trophies, a 21-5 record the last two seasons and three consecutive bowl victories. However, prior to 2016, Army had losing records in 18 of its last 19 seasons. The Black Knights have benefitted from playing two FCS opponents each season   this year they face Morgan State and VMI. Would they be allowed to schedule two FCS teams a year in the AAC? Also, their last go-around in a conference did not turn out well. From 1998-2004, Army was in Conference USA and never finished better than 3-8 overall in those seven seasons. Army left the league, in part, because it couldn't be competitive. And remember: Six of those C-USA schools are now in the American. "What happens if Army reverts back to the 20-year stretch before its current three-year success?" a source said. A different and more significant concern would be how the Army-Navy game (if it was a conference game), played annually on the third Saturday in December, would impact the conference. Not only is the AAC league title game played a week before the Army-Navy game, but the College Football Playoff rankings are released six days before the game is even played. That could be a major hurdle with no easy solution. As far as BYU, the Cougars were nearly AAC members several years ago but the sides couldn't reach an agreement. "We were very close with BYU years before the last television deal, but they had too many demands and wanted to be treated differently on TV rights than other members," a source said. In other words: BYU wanted more TV revenue than the other league members. "BYU does provide a potential late-night (TV) window and weeknight games and a (national) brand," a source said. But BYU might want to stay where it is: as an independent that has a television deal with ESPN that is expected to be renewed, a source said. So the American has to make a decision in the next several months: stay at 11 or get back to 12? "Is 11 better? With fewer pieces of the pie there is more revenue for the 11 schools to split than 12. Plus there's no perfect or obvious choice as our 12th member." Another source admitted that "other than the service academies and perhaps BYU, I can't see anyone rising up that makes it better to add than to stay pat at 11. "I guess," he said laughing, "we sound like the Big 12 when it decided not to expand a few years ago." MORE: When College Kickers Make and Miss Field Goals By Distance and Situation The post How UConn's Move Back to the Big East Impacts the College Football Landscape appeared first on Stadium .


Carlos Martinez returns! In a far different capacity than we would've expected a year ago. The Cardinals' former ace , at the end of a long road back to the bigs, plans to be activated by the team on Saturday in Texas, a half-season into his (temporary?) conversion to a bullpen role. Carlos Martinez was examined by #stlcards medical staff back in STL today. He's now headed to Texas to meet up with the club and expects to be activated Saturday.   Jenifer Langosch (@LangoschMLB) May 16, 2019 Before returning for his 2019 debut, Martinez attempted to pack a lot of transitioning into a short time frame, beginning a rehab assignment with Triple-A Memphis on May 7. Carlos Martinez has arrived in Memphis. The @Cardinals pitcher will continue his rehab from a strained rotator cuff with the @memphisredbirds as he tries to work his way back to the bigs. pic.twitter.com/MjDxi9vOmc   Mike Ceide (@MCeide_WREG3) May 7, 2019 It went well, if you like eventful bursts, but it didn't, if you prefer efficient results. Carlos Martinez threw 20 pitches (14 strikes) in a rehab appearance for @Sgf_Cardinals today. Packed a lot into two innings, too: 4 singles, 1 run, 1 HBP, 2 double plays.   Jenifer Langosch (@LangoschMLB) May 15, 2019 Martinez will make his first appearance following a strained rotator cuff from the back of the 'pen, with the fifth spot in a strong Cardinals rotation still belonging to Dakota Hudson, scuffling with a 4.61 ERA, but in need of reps. Reportedly, Martinez could rejoin the rotation midseason. At least, that's what he'd rather do. Carlos Martinez appears close to a return and a role in the bullpen. Carlos says he's fine with that but hopes to be back in the starting rotation at some point after the All-Star break. When healthy he's a plus anywhere he lands.   Jim Hayes (@TheCatOnFox) May 15, 2019 At some point in 2018, the Cards decided their ace of years past would be deemphasized. It worked, then it didn't, and he ended up scuffed. Now that the team, as a whole, is back to approaching contention, hopefully Martinez's arm miles are used more effectively this year overall. Related slideshow: 2019 MLB season (provided by imagn)


Linebacker Brandon Marshall only signed a one-year deal with the Raiders this offseason, but 2020 was part of the sales pitch that got him to join the club. Marshall grew up in Las Vegas and stayed in Nevada to play college football, which the Raiders used to their advantage when it came time to talk about a contract. The Raiders are set to begin playing their home games in Vegas next year. "They said they only had a one-year deal for me, but they really sold me on Vegas," Marshall said, via Nicki Jhabvala of TheAthletic.com. "They said, 'Look, we want you to help us plant the flag in Las Vegas. We feel like you're a leader, and we need leaders on the defense, we need alphas on the defense.' That's what Jon Gruden said, so that kind of made me feel good. It's funny because when I went there, they showed me the whole model of the Vegas stadium. So I was like, 'OK, this is their selling point for me.' I'm not sure about everybody else, but for me, they knew, 'Let's talk to Brandon about Vegas.' And it worked." The prospect of playing well enough to earn another contract and move back to his hometown may have played a role for Marshall, but he admitted there weren't a lot of other options available to him. Marshall said the Chargers, Cardinals and Jets showed early interest in his services early in free agency, but they pulled back as the Raiders were pressing forward.


Olympic champion and reality television star Bruce Jenner was sued for negligence and wrongful death on Friday by relatives of a woman killed in a car crash involving the former athlete on a Southern California highway in February. The complaint was filed in Los Angeles Superior Court by two stepchildren of Kimberly Howe, who died in the February 7 collision on Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu that sheriff's deputies said had left five other people injured. The lawsuit claims Jenner was driving his Cadillac Escalade, towing a trailer with an off-road vehicle, when he struck Howe's car from the rear, propelling her automobile into oncoming traffic, and she collided head-on with another vehicle. According to the suit, Jenner "violated the rules of the road" and was "negligent, careless and reckless" in causing the wreck, though the six-page complaint did not specify how Jenner was alleged to have been at fault. By contrast, Howe was "acting with due caution, attention and care" and did not contribute to the crash, the suit said. Jenner's publicist, Alan Nierob, declined comment on the case. The wrongful death claim seeks unspecified damages for the personal loss of Howe and her financial support to her stepdaughter, Dana Redmond, and stepson William Howe. Kimberly Howe's obituary said she and her deceased husband of 32 years ran a national health food business, and that she previously played bit parts in several Elvis Presley movies. The suit came one week after Jenner declared in a nationally televised interview that he identifies as a woman, becoming the most high-profile American to come out as transgender. Nierob, however, has said Jenner still prefers to be referred to with male pronouns. Jenner, 65, rose to fame with a record-breaking Olympic gold medal victory in the decathalon in the 1976 Summer Games in Montreal that earned him the unofficial title of "World's Greatest Athlete." Known to younger generations as the patriarch of reality TV's Kardashian clan, Jenner appeared on ABC's 20/20 last week to put to rest months of speculation that he was transitioning to life as a woman. The interview was conducted days before the Malibu crash. ABC's Diane Sawyer said during the broadcast that Jenner was unable to comment on the wreck but told ABC of the tragedy, "I was devastated." Jenner escaped serious injury in the crash, having declined medical treatment at the scene, authorities said. The accident remains under investigation by police.


When training camp arrives in the final week of July, one of the top position battles they will be watching include rookie Bobby Okereke at the middle linebacker position. While he will be going up against third-year linebacker Anthony Walker, the Colts also feel Okereke has the skill set to compete at all three linebacker spots in the middle of the defense. "I think he could play all three. He's played MIKE at Stanford. He can make the calls, he's smart, he is tough, he's got the length," area scout Chad McGaha told Colts.com . "But he is fast, he plays with good effort. And then coverage, too, if you want to bump him out, or whatever, he's good in coverage. So I think he can play all three. I kind of saw him in size as a MIKE or WILL. But I think he'll get a chance at all three, too." Okereke is likely to spend the majority of his time competing with Walker at the MIKE position. However, he did see some time at WILL linebacker during the spring with 2018 All-Pro Darius Leonard absent after undergoing an ankle procedure. Speaking of the reigning Defensive Rookie of the Year, the Colts saw a lot of similarities in Okereke's game and measurements to that of Leonard. "He's got the length, 35-inch arms. He's fast. He ran fast; I don't remember the number exactly. But plays with effort, kind of like Darius - instincts, tackling, sideline-to-sideline guy," said McGaha. "He's good in coverage, too. We saw him kind of in the same light. You put those two guys next to each other." Does that mean the Colts have another DROY on their hands? Probably not. But it does mean they feel Okereke has the skill set to make a big impact in the middle of the defense. There will be several competitions to keep an eye on once training camp begins, and the rookie should be right in the middle of arguably the most intriguing battle. MORE: NBA Free Agency 2019: The top players NBA free agency roundup: The latest updates around the league Giants' Darius Slayton already considered a Draft-day steal? Report: Celtics will renounce rights to Terry Rozier, Suns interested The 8 most important players for the 2019 Detroit Lions


Mike Leach is arguably Texas Tech's most successful football coach in the last half century. His Red Raiders finished as the joint leader of the Big 12 South in 2008, the only time the school could stake a claim to anything resembling a conference title since 1976. That year, he led the team to an 11-2 record, only to be fired a year later under controversial circumstances. Leach clearly has not forgotten his dismissal from Texas Tech, and still harbors some hard feelings. He made that clear Monday, when he liked a tweet that outlined the Red Raiders' football program's extensive struggles both before and after Leach's tenure. pic.twitter.com/9gZ5JV9QVu   Carson Cunningham (@KOCOCarson) July 15, 2019 Leach has proven his worth since then, reviving a moribund Washington State program and finishing in the top ten nationally in 2018. It came after Texas Tech let him go over allegations that he mistreated Adam James, the son of former SMU star Craig James. Leach made clear how he feels about James last year, and this seems to be an indication of how he feels about Texas Tech. It's fair to say he's ended up with the last laugh.


During his most recent appearance on ESPN's First Take, the usual headline machine LaVar Ball made a different kind of headline. Following what was deemed an inappropriate comment in-between segments, Ball was banned from further appearance s on any of the ESPN family of networks indefinitely. Ball has been rarely silent in the days since the incident until Saturday when a Twitter user caught up with him to ask him about the ban and the comments that got him banned. How am I going to be banned? I don't work for them. Said I'm going to banned from ESPN? I got my own show. I don't even have to respond to that on the fact that I meant no sexual intent on the fact that 'switch gears' means changing topics to me. Her mind in the gutter if she thinking something else. Only time I hit on her is if she's breaking into my house and I mistake her for the Boogeyman. Given quotes and scenes from Ball in the Family from Ball in the past about his family and his wife, one could assume Ball did not mean anything inappropriate by his comments. But at best, Ball's comments were remarkably tone deaf and a terrible choice of words. While he may not have felt the words he used were inappropriate, they were clearly interpreted in a different manner. That being said, it's likely best for both parties, ESPN and Ball, to stay away from one another indefinitely and let the situation diffuse itself. MORE: Pelicans coach gets last laugh over Anthony Davis' 'That's All Folks' shirt NBA Free Agency 2019: The top players Chiefs WR Byron Pringle projected to be starter by Matt Waldman LaVar Ball says Lakers are 'crashing down' after Anthony Davis trade Smailagic is the complete package in early stages of formation


Former Vice President Joe Biden will visit Detroit later this month ahead of the second round of Democratic debates, according to his campaign. The presidential candidate, an early front-runner in the 2020 race, will visit the Motor City July 24, according to a campaign news release. Details have not been announced. Detroit's Fox Theatre will host the second debate between more than 20 Democratic presidential hopefuls July 30 and 31. The first debates were held in Miami last week, where big names like Biden, Sen. Bernie Sanders, Sen. Kamala Harris and Sen. Elizabeth Warren stood alongside other candidates battling to share their vision for America. Biden has long held a clear lead in the polls. But after last week's debate, political pundits are saying his standing is not so sure, according to Politico . He still maintains 33 percent in the polls, but dropped 5 points in the first post-debate survey as other candidates gained traction, Politico reported . Biden will be the 14th Democratic presidential candidate to visit Michigan this year. More on freep.com: Former Vice President Joe Biden delivers eulogy at John Dingell funeral Another Michigan Democrat calls for Trump impeachment inquiry This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Joe Biden to visit Detroit ahead of July Democratic debate


Before sending kids back to school, make sure they're in optimal health and ready to learn Overall Health It feels as if summer just started, and it's already time to start thinking about back-to-school plans for the kids. Sure, you can put off buying notebooks and binders, school uniforms and water bottles. The BTS prep you should focus on now are health checks. Make appointments and set aside time for wellness checks. Start with an overall health check and physical with your child's pediatrician. Sports Check If your child plans to play sports , or spent the summer on travel team soccer, baseball, or swim, schedule a checkup specific to sports health and sports injuries. Year-round youth sports are causing repetitive motion injuries, but a doctor who knows to look for the signs can help with diagnosis and prevention. If your child is new to sports, a sports checkup will alert you to any reasons you might want to proceed with caution. Update Vaccines You need to have a doctor review your children's health charts and make sure they are up-to-date on immunizations. (Many schools require proof, so be sure to pick that up on your way out of the office, too.) Also, ask about HPV vaccines , which help prevent cancer. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the shot series for children   both boys and girls   starting around the age of 9. Teen boys who didn't get it when they were younger can still get it. Ask About Aches and Pains Before school starts, flag any aches and pains your child complains about frequently with their pediatrician. Ask for a referral if your doctor dismisses it. Headaches or a sore throat may mean allergies. Sore legs and frequent fevers could mean anything from growth spurts to more serious signs of illness. Stomach pains could be the appendix or even an expression of anxiety. Allergy Tests If your child has complained about headaches, a sore throat, watery eyes, or stomach upset, they may be suffering from allergies. Allergies , whether seasonal or food-triggered, are a distraction, bring fatigue, and can cause pain. Take your child for tests in the summer so they can start treatment and begin managing side effects without also needing to do homework or be "on" for an entire school day. This also gives you a chance to plan lunches and other meals around food-based allergies. Growth Check Whether you're tracking height and weight at home, or you leave it to your child's pediatrician, make sure they're tracking on a healthy-for-them trajectory. If you suspect growth is happening too quickly (or too slowly), talk to the pediatrician. Spine Check A spine check should be a routine part of your child's annual checkups but, if not, make sure to ask your doctor to do one (or refer your child out for one). Scoliosis , a curving of the spine, is treatable   and more easily so if it's caught early. Tuberculosis Test Some states require all entering kindergarteners to submit to a tuberculosis test . This involves a needle, a little bubble under the skin of their arm, and a checkup a few days later to see if there's a reaction. Some counties or states have dropped the requirement. Check with your child's school, and take care of it this summer. Vision Screening Children should get their vision tested at least once a year, even if they haven't expressed difficulties with seeing. Kids spend a lot of time on screens, and early intervention, even when vision issues aren't obvious, will prevent and slow future problems. Dental Checkup If it's been awhile (or never) since your child has seen the dentist, a back-to-school dental checkup is a great idea. Even if your child has mostly baby teeth, getting a baseline on their oral health can be important as they grow. If they're older, have poor brushing and flossing habits, bad breath, or complain about pain, it's even more important. Painful mouths and teeth are a distraction to learning and diminish quality of life   even for children who are scared of the dentist. Gynecologist Visit The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that girls have their first visit to the gynecologist between 13 and 15 years old, though typically they won't get pelvic exams until they are sexually active or at least 18 years old. If your daughter is sexually active, she should start getting annual checkups. Either way, it's important for girls to start a relationship with a doctor they're comfortable with. Shoe Size Even if your child doesn't seem to have grown a lot in the last few months, their feet may have. Take them to a shoe store to get measured, and make sure they're wearing shoes that are the correct size. A little room to grow into is fine, but too much can cause them to trip or walk incorrectly. Too small is painful and can damage their toes and feet. Follow these tips for shoe shopping with kids. (Go at the end of the day when their feet are a bit swollen.) Backpack Fit Here's an important and often overlooked health check, and one you can do at home and not in a doctor's office: the backpack check. One size doesn't fit all, and if your child grew a lot in the summer, last year's may no longer be the best. Learn what size works best for your child (including teens!), and make sure it's adjusted properly. If your child's school sends home heavy textbooks most days, consider a backpack on wheels. Hearing Check Older babies and children should get their hearing tested, especially if they exhibit any signs of early hearing loss . Their pediatrician should be able to do a test and, if necessary, refer the child to a specialist if the test yields concerning results. Mental Well-Being Tweens, teens, and even some younger children need to be screened for mental well-being, including for signs of depression and anxiety . These conditions can manifest themselves in a variety of ways, and a standard screening at the pediatrician   or with a licensed mental-health professional   will let you know whether treatment is needed. Organized Bedroom Summers are bedroom destroyers. Now's the time to do a room check. Have kids go through clothes they no longer like or that don't fit, and clear those out. Then organize toys and other items, installing bookshelves or other storage units as needed. If your child is transitioning into a grade that will have lots of homework, find space and a desk, good lighting, and work supplies. See if they'll let you set up some plants (for good mental health ). Set a goal of creating a comfortable, serene, and organized space   at least by the beginning of school. Update and Refill Medications Talk to your child's prescribing doctor about medications, refills, and whether they'll be necessary again this school year. Check bottles and inhalers for expiration dates, and discard anything that has expired. Lice Check It's not a medical emergency, but it's a favor to your child's classroom and school. Summer is peak season for lice , and it takes a couple of weeks for eggs to hatch and the itching to start. Do a nit check before starting school, and treat as necessary. If everyone in the classroom does this, you can avoid the BTS lice outbreak that has become a common fall school occurance. Sleep Check Summer is for late nights and sleeping in, but with jobs, camps, and other commitments, your child might not be getting enough sleep. Do an assessment and see if you can find ways to get them to bed earlier, to nap, or otherwise improve their sleep health (consider light-blocking shades). As the school year approaches, enforce routines that will ensure they're getting the recommended amount of sleep so they can start the school year rested and ready. Empower Them to Ask Questions Kids, young and in their teens, should have the chance to ask questions about their health and well-being. Create a space and expectation for that. Encourage them to speak to doctors and specialists about how they're feeling and what they want to know. Give them the privacy to do so.


Pack your bags, it's time for a summer vacation! Start Packing! These Are America's Ultimate Vacation Destinations by State Pack your bags, it's time for a summer vacation! If you're in search for a travel spot, then we've compiled a list of ideas for families, couples, and friends alike - all in the United States . From majestic national parks and awe-inspiring natural wonders to vivacious metropolitan cities or serene seaside towns , whatever you're in the mood for, America is packed with options that will satisfy your craving. We've combed through each state in search of epic travel destinations. All you have to do is decide where to go and how to get there! - Additional reporting by Haley Lyndes Alabama: Orange Beach Located on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico, Orange Beach is the perfect place for some rest and relaxation. In addition to the fiery orange sunrises, this breathtaking shoreline welcomes visitors with sugary white sand, turquoise blue water, and plenty of fun-in-the-sun activities. Alaska: Glacier Bay National Park Not only is Glacier Bay part of a 25-million acre World Heritage Site, but it is also considered one of the best things to do in Alaska . From hiking and biking to boating and fishing, this national park is a pool of adventures. Daily boat trips are also offered so you can get an up-close view of the stunning glaciers. Arizona: Antelope Canyon Known as the most-visited and most-photographed slot canyon in the American Southwest, Antelope Canyon will quench any thirst for wanderlust. With a 0.6-mile trail looping around the canyon, all skill levels are encouraged to come explore this spectacular work of art created by Mother Nature. Arkansas: Eureka Springs Once you arrive in Eureka Springs, you'll quickly realize why it has historically been called the "Little Switzerland of America." With its alpine character and winding streets that weave throughout the steep hills, there is no doubt this peaceful town is filled to the brim with charm. And how could we forget to mention Eureka Springs has its very own funnel cake factory!? California: Sequoia National Park So much enchantment awaits in this "Land of the Giants." While most people come to discover the supersize sequoia trees, there is a plethora of canyons, mountains, lakes, and waterfalls waiting to be explored as well in this national park. Colorado: Steamboat Springs If you're a lover of the Wild West, Steamboat Springs will be your kind of party. The town's annual Hot Air Balloon Rodeo and Art in the Park festival takes place each Summer, featuring a wide range of fun-shaped balloons. Chances are you'll leave this good time humming the lyrics to Will Smith 's "Wild Wild West." Connecticut: Guilford Not only is this serene shoreline town inviting and packed with charm, but it also offers a refreshing slow-paced vibe. Start your day with a leisurely stroll through Guilford Harbor, taking in the historic Faulkner Island Lighthouse, and end it hypnotized by a gorgeous sunset along the horizon of Jacobs Beach. Delaware: Rehoboth Beach Warm sunshine, sandy dunes, and ocean breezes await you at Rehoboth Beach. Located on the coast of the Atlantic, this popular getaway is consistently ranked among the top beaches in the nation. And with a lively boardwalk filled with shops, bars, restaurants, and live music, it's no surprise why so many people flock from all over to join in on the fun times. Florida: Key West With pristine white beaches and crystal-clear waters perfect for boating, fishing, and snorkeling, this southernmost point in the United States is a subtropical paradise like no other. Once the sun sets, the fun continues along the energetic strip of Duval Street. The lively nightlife among the countless bars, shops, and restaurants will ensure a memorable - or not so memorable - night ahead. Georgia: Savannah Step back in time as you explore the rich history of Savannah, the oldest city in Georgia, and one of the largest National Historic Landmark districts in the country. From becoming mesmerized by the antebellum architecture to strolling along the lively cobblestone waterfront, there is so much to do in this charming city. Hawaii: Maui While the entire state of Hawaii is a slice of paradise, Maui is particularly unique and is a prime destination for nature-lovers. With lush bamboo forests, churning waterfalls, and 30 miles of golden beaches, this island is famous for its captivating natural beauty. Don't forget to take a drive on the legendary road to Hana - a 65-mile stretch along a curvy coastal road - one of the most scenic routes you will ever come across. Idaho: Yellowstone National Park Yellowstone covers almost 3,500 square miles of wilderness and spreads between Idaho, Wyoming, and Montana. Hot springs, lush forests, and breathtaking canyons are just a few of the many wonders you will find here. The best way to explore the park is on foot, and with over 1,000 miles of trails , there are plenty of options for all skill levels. Illinois: Chicago Chicago's upbeat and energetic downtown is a playground waiting to be explored. With a huge focus on delicious food, craft beer, and astonishing architecture, you'll have enough activities for several days' worth of recess. Indiana: Marengo While Marengo might be small in size, it is largely popular thanks to the Marengo Cave, which is considered a national natural landmark. Voted as one of the best small towns in the state , Marengo is located in the heart of Indiana's hill country and is a great destination for all kinds of explorers, especially those seeking a slower-paced vacation. Iowa: Des Moines Exploring this capital city is not only a good time, but it's easy and affordable, too. From live music and Broadway shows to festivals, wineries, and food tours, this culture center of Iowa is such a versatile destination - there are activities for almost every interest. Kansas: Monument Rocks Rising above the flat prairies of Kansas, Monument Rocks - also known as Chalk Pyramids - are quite a sight to see. Located just 25 miles outside of Oakley, these giant chalk formations are 70 feet high and over 80 million years old . Kentucky: Lexington Does the Kentucky Derby ring a bell? Known as the "Horse Capital of the World," Lexington is the heart of the Bluegrass region and is an eclectic destination full of various fun activities. In addition to discovering immaculate horse parks and placing bids at horse races, celebrate the rich history of Kentucky Bourbon by taking part in distillery tours around the city. Louisiana: New Orleans Discover Louisiana's historic roots by visiting the lively city of New Orleans. Home of the lavish Mardi Gras celebration, New Orleans has so much to offer. If you're a lover of jazz, French-inspired architecture, and beignets piled high with powdered sugar, then you'll feel right at home in this vibrant pocket of the South. If you're feeling extra daring, be sure to embark on one of the area's local swamp tours! Maine: Portland While Portland is Maine's largest city, this area has much more of a small-town feel to it, making it quite a quaint and relaxing getaway. Explore the buzzing waterfront, tour the local lighthouses, and be sure to chow down on some of the nation's freshest lobster. Lobster rolls, anyone!? Maryland: Annapolis Whether you're in the mood to take sailing lessons, need a place to tie up your own boat, or simply want to gaze at the boats passing by on the water, there is no doubt that Annapolis is a sailor's paradise. Known as the "Sailing Capital of the World," Maryland's state capital is perched on the banks of Chesapeake Bay at the mouth of the Seven River. Massachusetts: Provincetown Located at the northern tip of Cape Cod, Provincetown - also known as P-Town - is a delightful seaside getaway. This picturesque town is a haven for artists, as it is home to a vibrant art community and overflows with unique shops, museums, and local galleries. Michigan: Empire With sand dunes reaching 400 feet high , scenic overlooks, and countless hiking trails, Empire is a prime location for any adventure seeker. And because this area is located in the heart of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, it houses over 35 miles of Lake Michigan's breathtaking coastline. Minnesota: Rochester Rochester is an intriguing blend of a big city and small town, making it a popular destination for a Summer getaway. Tour the famous Mayo Clinic, along with the Nature Center and Chateau Theater. Be sure to save time to explore the Zumbrota Covered Bridge, Minnesota's only remaining historic covered bridge. Mississippi: Biloxi Escape to Mississippi's Gulf Coast where the small city of Biloxi will embrace you with warm temperatures, calm waters, and sandy beaches. Test your luck at the local casinos and then unwind at the luxurious resorts and surrounding spas. Missouri: Lake of the Ozarks Lake of the Ozarks is a giant reservoir and is known as the Midwest's premier lake resort destination . With a main channel that stretches 92 miles, this lake offers world-class water adventure, not to mention jaw-dropping sunsets. Montana: Glacier National Park Straddling the American-Canadian border, Glacier National Park is a must see when in Montana. Known as the "Crown of the Continent," Glacier is the headwaters for all streams that flow to the Gulf of Mexico, the Pacific Coast, and Hudson's Bay. With over 700 miles of hiking trails, this national park delivers big time when it comes to adventure. Nebraska: Toadstool Geologic Park Discover the fascinating geology of Toadstool Geologic Park located in the far northwestern corner of Nebraska. Not only are these bulky sandstone blocks millions of years old in age, but their unique moonscape appearance makes them a true natural wonder to explore. Nevada: Red Rock Canyon Escape the temptations from Sin City by visiting the fiery red rocks of Red Rock Canyon. Whether you're looking to hike, rock climb, or simply take in the surrounding scenery from your car window, taking time to discover this magnificent natural wonder will be an afternoon well spent. New Hampshire: Hampton Nestled along the shores of the Atlantic, Hampton embodies full relaxation, and once you arrive to this seacoast region, it sure will be hard to leave. From the fun in the sun taking place on the 1940s-style beach boardwalk to the slow sipping of locally made wine and spirits off in the countryside, this coastal town has brought gleaming smiles to several generations of visitors. New Jersey: Cape May Cape May is a charming town located in the southernmost tip of New Jersey. With its candy-colored Victorian homes and serene shores, this seaside gem offers a laid-back vibe far from the world of Snookie and JWoww in Jersey Shore. New Mexico: Sandia Mountains Located to the east of Albuquerque, people flock to this beautiful mountain range to climb, hike, and explore. And with activities for all skill levels, it's no wonder the Sandia Mountains are the most visited mountains in all of New Mexico. New York: The Hamptons The Hamptons is more than just a location for posh parties and sunbathing. This string of seaside communities located in the heart of Long Island is a delightful summer destination, not to mention a much-needed city escape from the Big Apple. Launch your getaway by strolling along the beach, renting bikes, or catching a ferry to the nearby Shelter Island. North Carolina: Asheville Immerse yourself in the heart of western North Carolina by exploring the eclectic city of Asheville. From the breathtaking Blue Ridge Parkway to the architectural masterpiece of the Biltmore Estate, it won't take long for you to realize why Asheville's mountain vibe is unmistakable. North Dakota: Fargo If you're looking for a fun-filled weekend getaway, Fargo has you covered. Not only is this North Dakota's largest city, but this area has a vibrant downtown full of local art galleries, museums, street food, and cafes, ensuing a good time for all. Ohio: Cincinnati The spirited city of Cincinnati has so much to offer and practically hums with excitement. Start your day by taking in 360-degree views of the city from high above on the Carew Tower Observation Deck, and then hop on a river cruise to sail along the tranquil Ohio River. Oklahoma: Oklahoma City Known for its friendly vibes and cowboy culture, Oklahoma City has a unique blend of Southern charm and a metropolitan feel. Whether you're a sports fanatic, history buff, or nature-lover, you'll find a full list of fun attractions here in this growing capital city. Oregon: Crater Lake National Park Be ready to be struck with amazement when you arrive at Crater Lake - a lake so pure, it's considered to be one of the cleanest and clearest large bodies of water in the world. While this national park's main feature is the deep blue lake, there are numerous recreational activities to take part in, such as hiking, picnicking, camping, and backpacking. Driving the scenic route along the rim of the lake is also encouraged. Pennsylvania: Pocono Mountains Bounded by forest peaks, valleys, and lakes, the Pocono Mountains are a prime destination for chasing waterfalls, hiking, and white-water rafting. Don't be surprised when you fall in love with this area so much, you'll be returning for a romantic Winter getaway. Rhode Island: Block Island An oasis often overlooked by the Summer crowds, Block Island is located just 13 miles south of Rhode Island's mainland. It is one of the state's best-kept secrets - well, that is, until now. Climb aboard a ferry to explore the island's diverse wildlife, salt marshes, and white beaches. Be sure to tour the island's Southeast Light, one of the nation's most spectacular lighthouses. South Carolina: Charleston History buffs be warned - once you visit this charming historic town of South Carolina, chances are you will never want to leave. Defined by horse-drawn carriages, cobblestone streets, and aristocratic estates, Charleston is the nation's well-preserved Southern belle. Don't miss strolling along the Battery, a waterfront promenade, to watch the sun magically light up the sky as it sets for the day. South Dakota: Black Hills National Forest Come face to face with the nation's rich heritage by exploring Black Hills National Forest. Here, you will not only stumble upon Mount Rushmore, where you can gaze at the massive 60-foot face sculptures carved into the mountainside, but you will also be able to explore rocks, canyons, grasslands, and over 350 miles of hiking trails . Tennessee: Nashville Do the Grand Ole Opry, Country Music Hall of Fame, and Ryman Auditorium sound familiar? Go ahead and "Boot Scootin Boogie" your way to Nashville and discover all that this vivacious city has to offer. From street performances to honky-tonks, it won't take you long to realize why this corner of Tennessee is nicknamed "Music City." Texas: Waco Giraffes in Texas? While your first thought might be Chip and Joanna Gaines when you hear of Waco - and with good reason - but there are also many other treasures to go along with Magnolia Market that make a visit to this town in Central Texas well worth it. Take, for instance, the Cameron Park Zoo. This 52-acre zoo houses everything from lions, tigers, and bears . . . to giraffes. Utah: Arches National Park With more than 2,000 natural stone arches , it's no surprise why so many people gravitate to this national park to satisfy their hunger for adventure. While the massive Delicate Arch takes the win for popularity, there are countless other fascinating rock formations waiting to be explored, too. Whether you're seeking to hike, camp, climb, or simply take a scenic drive, Arches National Park is calling your name. Vermont: Chester If you're on the hunt for a quintessential Vermont experience, the picturesque town of Chester is ready to be of service. Best known for its historic district, Stone Village, Chester overflows with beauty and charm. Enjoy the small-town vibes as you peruse antique shops, marvel at colonial homes, and take in the local cuisine. Virginia: Natural Bridge State Park With a 215-foot natural arch spanning 90 feet above Cedar Creek, Natural Bridge is a fascinating geological formation. Although this natural wonder was discovered back in the 1700s, this area just recently became a state park in 2016. Become even more inspired by exploring the lush forests, open meadows, and surrounding mountains. Washington: Seattle With a soaring skyline and buzzing downtown, this exuberant metropolitan city guarantees its visitors an unforgettable experience. Whether you're exploring iconic landmarks - such as the futuristic Space Needle - or wandering along the waterfront or around Pike Place Market, home to the original Starbucks - chances are you'll just be scratching the surface as to what Seattle has to offer. West Virginia: Fayetteville Tucked away in the Appalachian Mountains, Fayetteville is best known for being the home to the New River Gorge Bridge, a 3,030-foot-long steel arch bridge . To best experience the magnificence of one of the oldest river gorges on earth, you can kayak, canoe, and even raft down 53 miles of the free-flowing New River. Wisconsin: Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Apostle Islands - also known as the Jewels of Lake Superior - consist of 21 unique islands and are a spectacular Summer getaway. Hiking, sailing, paddling, and camping are just a few of the many outdoor activities you can take part in at this breathtaking national lakeshore. Wyoming: Grand Teton National Park Let your imagination run as free as the wildlife located in this breathtaking national park. At approximately 310,000 acres , there is no chance you'll run out of things to do. Surrounded by the captivating Teton mountain range, this portion of Wyoming is a hot spot for hiking, fishing, and backcountry camping. And, with Yellowstone National Park not too far away, you're be sure to have a remarkable outdoor experience.


President Trump on Wednesday declared a House vote to table articles of impeachment against him should be the "end of it," calling it "the most ridiculous project." Trump assailed the measure, brought to the floor by Rep. Al Green (D-Texas), shortly after landing in North Carolina where is set to hold a campaign rally. He incorrectly claimed the effort to impeach him is "over," and suggested no other president should have to face such a vote. "We've just received an overwhelming vote against impeachment and that's the end of it," Trump said. "It's time to get back to work." In a pair of tweets issued around the same time, Trump called impeachment "perhaps the most ridiculous and time consuming project I have ever had to work on." He declared impeachment "is now over." "This should never be allowed to happen to another President of the United States again!" Trump tweeted. The House voted 332-95 to kill the first articles of impeachment brought forward under the new Democratic majority. While a majority of Democrats voted to table to the measure, nearly 100 lawmakers voted in favor of the effort, underscoring the divide within the party over how to approach the issue. It's the first time the Democratic House has been confronted with a vote on impeachment, and comes a week before former special counsel Robert Mueller is set to testify before two committees on Capitol Hill. While Wednesday's vote failed, another lawmaker could bring new articles that prompt the House to formally launch impeachment proceedings.