Easy On Me
Was Aaron Rodgers Halloween costume worth the hair, why the discussion around mental health is more important than ever in sports and when moms text?
It's a Monday, the day after Halloween and the first of November - that's enough shock value for today so we're here to make the rest of the day easy.
Highest hopes,
The Last Night's Game Team
NFL (National Football League)
On the same day that Philadelphia Eagles Lane Johnson spoke out about his crippling battle with anxiety and depression, Calvin Ridley of the Atlanta Falcons announced that he is stepping away from the game to focus on his mental health. Johnson opened up in an interview that he missed three games in October because he was "living in hell for a long time." His battle with his anxiety and depression gave him hand tremors and daily nausea, which resulted in him throwing up blood.
Johnson's interview and Ridley's announcement continue to contribute to the open discussion around mental health, including for athletes. MAY IT CONTINUE
Short and Sweet
Aaron Rodgers grew his hair out for his Halloween costume, but was it worth it?
The sports world mourns the loss of the son of broadcaster Ernie Johnson, who passed at the age of 33.
It's down to four in NASCAR's (National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing) Championship.
The Houston Astros (MLB - Major League Baseball) survive elimination by the Atlanta Braves and head back home for Game Six of the World Series tomorrow.
Before we go
Until yesterday, quarterback Trevor Siemian's career highlight might have been the Skittles-distributing parkas gifted during the holidays. In yesterday's game, he stepped in for an injured Jameis Winston to lead his New Orleans Saints (NFL) to a momentous victory over Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He said he received 200+ congratulatory texts, and joked most were from his mom. LIFE'S MOMENTS
Hello, Monday.
It’s a new week. Let’s embrace it.
It’s a new week. Let’s embrace it.
Arms wide open,
The Last Night’s Game Team
COLLEGE FOOTBALL
Don’t doubt the underdog. Three top college teams unexpectedly lost to their underdog opponents over the weekend. Arkansas, Northwestern and Wisconsin all paid their under qualified opponents at least $1 million to show up for the home game and an “easy” win— only to walk away with a big, fat loss. TALK ABOUT AN EXPENSIVE MISTAKE.
OVERTIME
After a big win against the Philadelphia Eagles (the defending Super Bowl champs), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL- National Football League) quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick celebrated in style. He must have lost a bet because he showed up to the postgame press conference donning aviators, big gold chains and a substantial amount of chest hair. IF YOU’VE GOT IT, FLAUNT IT?
SIDELINE STAT
Someone had to raise the bar and set a new record. Buffalo Bills (NFL) Vontae Davis could be the first player ever to retire in the middle of the game. He played until halftime and then said "I shouldn't be out there anymore" and called it a career. On the flip side, Kenyan runner Eliud Kipchoge broke the world record for a marathon, finishing in two hours, one minute and 39 seconds. DANG, THAT’S FAST.
COACHES’ CORNER
Think back to what were you doing 18 years ago. That's when professional golfer Angela Stanford started her career. After 18 years, she finally won her first major tournament this weekend. Stanford says her win was inspired by her mother, who is battling a second round of breast cancer. PLEASE PASS THE TISSUES.
When I Met You In The Summer
The weather is heating up and so is the conversation. Stay cool with your newfound sports knowledge.
The weather is heating up and so is the conversation. Stay cool with your newfound sports knowledge.
Own the weekend,
The Last Night’s Game Team
World Cup
When you pledge allegiance to the flag. Despite being one of the top teams in the World Cup, Spain fired their head coach days before the tournament began in Russia. They play soccer superstar Cristiano Ronaldo and his talented Portuguese team today. Spanish fans might be a little conflicted because Ronaldo hails from Portugal but plays professionally in Spain for Real Madrid. Also watch for Gerard Pique, singer Shakira’s partner and baby daddy, who plays for Spain. 5 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT THE WORLD CUP
Overtime
Minor League baseball teams are known for their zany publicity stunts and these two are no exception. After a fan vote, a Staten Island team is changing their name to the Staten Island Pizza Rats for a few games this season, as an ode to a hungry subway rat. Not to be outdone, the St. Paul Saints will become the "Raccoons" for one game in honor of the heroic raccoon that scaled a St. Paul office building and captivated a nation earlier this week. IT’S A ZOO OUT THERE
Sideline stat
Who said diamonds were only a girl’s best friend? The Super Bowl winning Philadelphia Eagles (NFL – National Football League) received their championship rings and my how they sparkle with their 219 diamonds. Amongst the many carefully considered features, the ring has a dog mask to signify the team’s role as the ultimate underdogs in the postseason and for the first time ever, they’re inscribed with the player’s own signature. PICS
Coaches’ corner
It was a rough first day at golf’s U.S. Open Tournament. Not only was the traffic on Long Island horrendous, taking some players three hours to get to the course, but the actual golf was pretty tragic too. Tiger Woods made a veteran move, staying on his $20 million yacht near the course but that still didn’t help his game. Known for being a challenging course, Shinnecock Hills sent the players home yesterday with the highest average scores in 25 years. TRAFFIC STINKS
What to watch
All eyes will be on Russia and Omaha, Nebraska this weekend. (We never thought we’d say that in the same sentence). The College Baseball World Series starts tomorrow and features eight college teams ranging from the defending champion Florida Gators to first-timers like the Washington Huskies. The double elimination tournament runs through June 27. SCHEDULE & TEAMS