Today marks the first Monday of 2024, and we're diving straight into the action-packed world of sports. From college football playoffs to outdoor NHL faceoffs and a bit of NFL controversy - here’s the small talk you need to start your year.
1. College Football Playoffs: Rose Bowl and Sugar Bowl Showdowns
The Rose Bowl is a clash of titans as Michigan takes on Alabama in the college football playoffs semi-finals. Jim Harbaugh's Wolverines aim to overcome past setbacks, while Alabama, led by the legendary Nick Saban, is eying his eighth national championship. Meanwhile, the Sugar Bowl features Washington against Texas, with Heisman runner-up Michael Penix Jr. leading Washington. Quarterback Quinn Ewers leads the Longhorns, but all the focus seems to be on backup quarterback Arch Manning, nephew of Peyton and Eli Manning. Manning is the fourth-highest NIL earner behind:
1. Bronny James, USC basketball
2. Shedeur Sanders, Colorado
3. Livvy Dunne, LSU
4. Arch Manning, Texas
Fun Fact: Each participant in the CFP semi-finals pockets an astounding $6M for their conference.
2. NHL winter classic: Seattle Kraken vs. Vegas Golden Knights
Hockey fans, get ready for a chilly showdown. The Seattle Kraken and the Stanley Cup Champions Vegas Golden Knights (NHL - National Hockey League) will battle it out outdoors in the Seattle Mariners Stadium on New Year's Day. The MVP of the game will claim the new Hot Cocoa Trophy, and fans, who have clearly been watching too many bowl games, are clamoring for the winning coach to get a hot cocoa shower.
3. NFL Controversy: Lions vs. Cowboys Drama
Saturday night's Detriot Lions vs. Dallas Cowboys (NFL - National Football League) game delivered an edge-of-the-seat experience. A two-point conversion that could have sealed the Lions' victory was called back due to a controversial ruling. Allegedly, a lineman failed to report as an eligible receiver, but video evidence suggests otherwise. The Lions returned for two more attempts but fell short, losing by a single point. The plot thickens, and fans are eagerly awaiting how this controversy unfolds.
As we kick off the new year, sports enthusiasts are in for a treat with thrilling matchups, unexpected twists, and the promise of more exciting moments. Here's to a fantastic 2024 filled with sports spectacles and unforgettable moments.
Photo: Instagram/Balmain
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Photo: Instagram/newyorkjets
GAME CHANGER
Looking for ideas to break out of a dinner slump (or perhaps for an upcoming football watch party)? Check out our Tailgate Treats for inspiration. EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY
