#playoff-contention

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#nfl

49ers reel after another 'infuriating' late loss

The San Francisco 49ers face challenges this season with a 5-5 record, dealing with losses in division games and injuries as they aim for the playoffs.

Lenoir, 49ers feeling urgency to 'put teams to bed' after latest loss

The 49ers must elevate their urgency and finish games effectively to maintain playoff hopes.

Rams' urgency ahead of Raiders game: Only four 1-5 NFL teams have made playoffs

The Rams maintain a calm and confident demeanor despite a challenging start to the season, drawing from past experiences of overcoming adversity.

3 takeaways from Jets' 2024 53-man roster release | amNewYork

Jets complete 53-man roster, aiming for playoff contention with a mix of veterans and promising undrafted players.

Minimal margin of error for Falcons as playoff-caliber challenges are looming

The next three games will determine the Falcons' playoff credibility and ability to control their division.

Cote's NFL Week 12 picks: Miami Dolphins-Patriots, the 'Harbaugh Bowl,' two upsets and all 13 games

The Miami Dolphins must focus on their game against the New England Patriots to maintain playoff contention despite past successes against them.

49ers reel after another 'infuriating' late loss

The San Francisco 49ers face challenges this season with a 5-5 record, dealing with losses in division games and injuries as they aim for the playoffs.

Lenoir, 49ers feeling urgency to 'put teams to bed' after latest loss

The 49ers must elevate their urgency and finish games effectively to maintain playoff hopes.

Rams' urgency ahead of Raiders game: Only four 1-5 NFL teams have made playoffs

The Rams maintain a calm and confident demeanor despite a challenging start to the season, drawing from past experiences of overcoming adversity.

3 takeaways from Jets' 2024 53-man roster release | amNewYork

Jets complete 53-man roster, aiming for playoff contention with a mix of veterans and promising undrafted players.

Minimal margin of error for Falcons as playoff-caliber challenges are looming

The next three games will determine the Falcons' playoff credibility and ability to control their division.

Cote's NFL Week 12 picks: Miami Dolphins-Patriots, the 'Harbaugh Bowl,' two upsets and all 13 games

The Miami Dolphins must focus on their game against the New England Patriots to maintain playoff contention despite past successes against them.
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#dallas-cowboys

Does Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy have any chance of not being fired at the end of the season?

Mike McCarthy's job security rests solely on the team's success this season, particularly achieving a Super Bowl win.

Falcons - Cowboys instant recap: Late drama and plenty of injuries can't mar an Atlanta home win

Falcons showcased their growth by beating the Cowboys, indicating potential playoff contention.

Does Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy have any chance of not being fired at the end of the season?

Mike McCarthy's job security rests solely on the team's success this season, particularly achieving a Super Bowl win.

Falcons - Cowboys instant recap: Late drama and plenty of injuries can't mar an Atlanta home win

Falcons showcased their growth by beating the Cowboys, indicating potential playoff contention.
moredallas-cowboys
#injuries

Records aside, Kings keeping keen eye on struggling Sharks

Los Angeles Kings have a favorable closing schedule with mostly games against lower-ranked teams.
Kings are in contention for both wild-card spots and a higher Pacific Division position.

Raptor's young core shines in loss to Hornets

The Toronto Raptors face a challenging season, struggling with injuries and a tough schedule that complicates their playoff aspirations.

Records aside, Kings keeping keen eye on struggling Sharks

Los Angeles Kings have a favorable closing schedule with mostly games against lower-ranked teams.
Kings are in contention for both wild-card spots and a higher Pacific Division position.

Raptor's young core shines in loss to Hornets

The Toronto Raptors face a challenging season, struggling with injuries and a tough schedule that complicates their playoff aspirations.
moreinjuries
#mlb

Poll: How many wins will the 2024 Mets achieve?

Expectations for the Mets in 2024 are considerably lower than the previous year, with projections ranging from 78-84 wins.
Despite lower expectations, the Mets organization has been vocal about competing for a playoff spot in 2024.

Red Sox's Formula For Success Is Volatile, Not Outlandish

The Red Sox must continue winning to remain in playoff contention, showcasing both offensive strength and bullpen weaknesses in their performance against the Orioles.

Braves look to shed wet socks and avoid Gore-y outcome in Washington

The Braves are battling for playoff contention amidst injuries and a poor hitting environment.
Their struggles are compounded by the worst wOBA in the league for September and historical challenges against quality pitchers.

Yankees 4, Rangers 7: Ninth-inning nightmare

The Yankees lost a critical game to the Texas Rangers, highlighting their ongoing struggles despite playoff contention.

Braves roll into Miami just one day after Ohtani-led demolition

Braves must capitalize on the struggling Marlins to stay competitive in the playoff race.

OTM Open Thread 8/20: Regression to the Mean

Red Sox's playoff hopes dim following a loss to the Astros, sitting 7.5 games out of the AL East.
Bullpen struggles offset solid performances from starters like Tanner Houck.
Nostalgia for 2004 season contrasts sharply with the current team's struggles.

Poll: How many wins will the 2024 Mets achieve?

Expectations for the Mets in 2024 are considerably lower than the previous year, with projections ranging from 78-84 wins.
Despite lower expectations, the Mets organization has been vocal about competing for a playoff spot in 2024.

Red Sox's Formula For Success Is Volatile, Not Outlandish

The Red Sox must continue winning to remain in playoff contention, showcasing both offensive strength and bullpen weaknesses in their performance against the Orioles.

Braves look to shed wet socks and avoid Gore-y outcome in Washington

The Braves are battling for playoff contention amidst injuries and a poor hitting environment.
Their struggles are compounded by the worst wOBA in the league for September and historical challenges against quality pitchers.

Yankees 4, Rangers 7: Ninth-inning nightmare

The Yankees lost a critical game to the Texas Rangers, highlighting their ongoing struggles despite playoff contention.

Braves roll into Miami just one day after Ohtani-led demolition

Braves must capitalize on the struggling Marlins to stay competitive in the playoff race.

OTM Open Thread 8/20: Regression to the Mean

Red Sox's playoff hopes dim following a loss to the Astros, sitting 7.5 games out of the AL East.
Bullpen struggles offset solid performances from starters like Tanner Houck.
Nostalgia for 2004 season contrasts sharply with the current team's struggles.
moremlb
#offensive-strategy

49ers injury news underscores need for Christian McCaffrey return

Christian McCaffrey's return is crucial for the 49ers as they cope with significant player injuries and aim for a playoff push.

At 4-2, and on the Bye, a Season Awaits the Chicago Bears

Bears' solid start positions them as playoff contenders, hinging on quarterback play and secondary health.

49ers injury news underscores need for Christian McCaffrey return

Christian McCaffrey's return is crucial for the 49ers as they cope with significant player injuries and aim for a playoff push.

At 4-2, and on the Bye, a Season Awaits the Chicago Bears

Bears' solid start positions them as playoff contenders, hinging on quarterback play and secondary health.
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#baseball

Game 141: Red Sox designate Rich Hill for assignment ahead of series with White Sox - The Boston Globe

The Red Sox's postseason berth chances remain unlikely yet still possible after a recent victory.

Things you should watch

The AL divisions are almost decided, while the Wild Card competition is intense among multiple teams.
NL Wild Card race is competitive, especially for the Padres who need to perform well against the Dodgers.

Monday Morning Brushback: Trade Deadline Edition

The author expresses frustration with the performance of the Red Sox and highlights the possibility of the team still being in contention.

Game 141: White Sox at Red Sox lineups and notes - The Boston Globe

The Red Sox still hold a faint chance at postseason despite significant challenges and a recent poor record.

Impassioned Pete Alonso taking leadership role during Mets' stretch run without Francisco Lindor | amNewYork

Pete Alonso inspired his teammates by emphasizing their journey and the bright future despite challenges faced earlier in the season.

Red Sox Wrap: Playoff Hopes Officially Over With Loss To Blue Jays

The Boston Red Sox have been eliminated from postseason contention, finishing the season with an 80-79 record.

Game 141: Red Sox designate Rich Hill for assignment ahead of series with White Sox - The Boston Globe

The Red Sox's postseason berth chances remain unlikely yet still possible after a recent victory.

Things you should watch

The AL divisions are almost decided, while the Wild Card competition is intense among multiple teams.
NL Wild Card race is competitive, especially for the Padres who need to perform well against the Dodgers.

Monday Morning Brushback: Trade Deadline Edition

The author expresses frustration with the performance of the Red Sox and highlights the possibility of the team still being in contention.

Game 141: White Sox at Red Sox lineups and notes - The Boston Globe

The Red Sox still hold a faint chance at postseason despite significant challenges and a recent poor record.

Impassioned Pete Alonso taking leadership role during Mets' stretch run without Francisco Lindor | amNewYork

Pete Alonso inspired his teammates by emphasizing their journey and the bright future despite challenges faced earlier in the season.

Red Sox Wrap: Playoff Hopes Officially Over With Loss To Blue Jays

The Boston Red Sox have been eliminated from postseason contention, finishing the season with an 80-79 record.
morebaseball
#atlanta-braves

Dodgers come to town as Braves fight for their playoff lives

The Braves face crucial games against the Dodgers to stay in playoff contention amidst competitive Wild Card race.

Weather casts foreboding shadow over the Atlanta Braves next three games

The next five games are crucial for the Braves' playoff chances, impacted significantly by looming severe weather.

Dodgers come to town as Braves fight for their playoff lives

The Braves face crucial games against the Dodgers to stay in playoff contention amidst competitive Wild Card race.

Weather casts foreboding shadow over the Atlanta Braves next three games

The next five games are crucial for the Braves' playoff chances, impacted significantly by looming severe weather.
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#boston-red-sox

Three Potential Trade Partners For Red Sox Before 2024 MLB Deadline

Boston Red Sox positioning for MLB trade deadline

Red Sox Officially Announce Alex Cora's Three-Year Extension

Alex Cora signed a three-year contract extension with the Boston Red Sox, demonstrating the team's confidence in his leadership.

Series Preview: Twins at Red Sox

The Red Sox struggled to secure a playoff spot, unable to capitalize despite being in contention for most of the season.

Tyler O'Neill Opens Up About Uncertain Future With Red Sox

Tyler O'Neill's uncertain future with the Boston Red Sox as a talented player on an expiring contract amidst the MLB trade deadline.

Did Netflix Play Role In Alex Cora's Three-Year Extension With Red Sox?

The Boston Red Sox extended manager Alex Cora's contract for three years, potentially signaling a positive future.

Three Potential Trade Partners For Red Sox Before 2024 MLB Deadline

Boston Red Sox positioning for MLB trade deadline

Red Sox Officially Announce Alex Cora's Three-Year Extension

Alex Cora signed a three-year contract extension with the Boston Red Sox, demonstrating the team's confidence in his leadership.

Series Preview: Twins at Red Sox

The Red Sox struggled to secure a playoff spot, unable to capitalize despite being in contention for most of the season.

Tyler O'Neill Opens Up About Uncertain Future With Red Sox

Tyler O'Neill's uncertain future with the Boston Red Sox as a talented player on an expiring contract amidst the MLB trade deadline.

Did Netflix Play Role In Alex Cora's Three-Year Extension With Red Sox?

The Boston Red Sox extended manager Alex Cora's contract for three years, potentially signaling a positive future.
moreboston-red-sox

Chicago baseball report: Cubs in midst of trivial home stretch - while White Sox face tall task to avoid making history

Cubs struggle to capitalize on easy schedule as playoffs slip away.
White Sox face historical loss record, needing a strong finish to avoid it.
Julian Merryweather undergoes surgery, ending a tough season on a low note.

Preview: Mystics play Dream on Sunday

Washington Mystics control playoff destiny by winning their final three games, following an impressive turnaround from a 12-game losing streak.

Watch Luciano, Fitzgerald get separated in dugout after misplay

Giants face elimination from playoffs, leading to frustration and tension among young players following a significant error.
A collision on an infield fly between Luciano and Fitzgerald results in an emotional confrontation in the dugout.
Coaching staff intervenes amid rising tensions as team struggles late in the season.

NL Central Squad Claims Recently DFA'd Dodgers Infielder

Amed Rosario, sidelined by roster crunch, joins the Reds for potential playing time despite competition, showcasing the complexities of MLB trades and player opportunities.
#trade-deadline

SF Giants News: Zaidi has "100%" confidence that Giants can make playoffs

Bold confidence in playoff potential despite lackluster trade deadline moves.

Alex Cora Challenges Red Sox To 'Finish Job' After Trade Deadline

The Red Sox aim to avoid post-trade deadline struggles by bolstering their pitching staff for a stronger finish.

Kenley Jansen: Red Sox front office 'smart enough to know' what team needs at deadline

Red Sox players emphasize the need for additional support to contend for a playoff spot.

Elliotte Friedman thinks it's possible Capitals could be trade deadline buyers

The Washington Capitals are in playoff contention and may consider adding to their roster before the trade deadline.
Hockey insider Elliotte Friedman believes that the Capitals may be buyers at the trade deadline but will likely be patient and wait to see how things develop.

Is Jordan Clarkson a serious trade target for the Knicks?

This year's trade deadline has been slower than years past, leading to fewer trades being made.
The Knicks are in playoff contention and may be looking to make a move to boost their roster, potentially targeting Jordan Clarkson.

SF Giants News: Zaidi has "100%" confidence that Giants can make playoffs

Bold confidence in playoff potential despite lackluster trade deadline moves.

Alex Cora Challenges Red Sox To 'Finish Job' After Trade Deadline

The Red Sox aim to avoid post-trade deadline struggles by bolstering their pitching staff for a stronger finish.

Kenley Jansen: Red Sox front office 'smart enough to know' what team needs at deadline

Red Sox players emphasize the need for additional support to contend for a playoff spot.

Elliotte Friedman thinks it's possible Capitals could be trade deadline buyers

The Washington Capitals are in playoff contention and may consider adding to their roster before the trade deadline.
Hockey insider Elliotte Friedman believes that the Capitals may be buyers at the trade deadline but will likely be patient and wait to see how things develop.

Is Jordan Clarkson a serious trade target for the Knicks?

This year's trade deadline has been slower than years past, leading to fewer trades being made.
The Knicks are in playoff contention and may be looking to make a move to boost their roster, potentially targeting Jordan Clarkson.
moretrade-deadline

MLB Rumors: Scherzer, Eovaldi floated as trade deadline idea

The Texas Rangers should consider trading Max Scherzer and Nathan Eovaldi to recoup assets and set themselves up for future success.
#san-francisco-giants

It's time, Farhan Zaidi: SF Giants need to call up the rookies

The Giants planned for a youth-driven team with key additions, but struggles and inconsistencies have led to questions about the original plan.

MLB insider: SF Giants' Farhan Zaidi is on the hot seat as trade deadline nears

The San Francisco Giants are under pressure to perform and potentially make the playoffs to secure job positions in the leadership.
Expectations are leaning towards the Giants being buyers at the trade deadline due to their commitments and the potential consequences of failing to make the postseason.

36-24 or someone's being shown the door?

The Giants' off-season efforts to contend did not materialize as expected, despite strong additions to the team's roster.

The Do's and Don'ts of judging the Giants with 100 games remaining

Ignore tough series against superior teams like the Yankees and focus on Wild Card competition.

The SF Giants' demoting Luis Matos makes absolutely no sense whatsoever

The Giants are leaning on their top hitting prospects like Matos, Ramos, and Luciano for the long-term future rather than relying solely on free agent signings.

It's time, Farhan Zaidi: SF Giants need to call up the rookies

The Giants planned for a youth-driven team with key additions, but struggles and inconsistencies have led to questions about the original plan.

MLB insider: SF Giants' Farhan Zaidi is on the hot seat as trade deadline nears

The San Francisco Giants are under pressure to perform and potentially make the playoffs to secure job positions in the leadership.
Expectations are leaning towards the Giants being buyers at the trade deadline due to their commitments and the potential consequences of failing to make the postseason.

36-24 or someone's being shown the door?

The Giants' off-season efforts to contend did not materialize as expected, despite strong additions to the team's roster.

The Do's and Don'ts of judging the Giants with 100 games remaining

Ignore tough series against superior teams like the Yankees and focus on Wild Card competition.

The SF Giants' demoting Luis Matos makes absolutely no sense whatsoever

The Giants are leaning on their top hitting prospects like Matos, Ramos, and Luciano for the long-term future rather than relying solely on free agent signings.
moresan-francisco-giants
#pittsburgh-steelers

Steelers 2024 game-by-game picks

Following the release of the Pittsburgh Steelers' schedule, detailed game-by-game predictions are highlighted for the upcoming season.

Ranking The Steelers' Starters Post-Season Edition: No. 24-22

Projected starters changed throughout the season.
Steelers' play was inconsistent but still made the playoffs.

Steelers 2024 game-by-game picks

Following the release of the Pittsburgh Steelers' schedule, detailed game-by-game predictions are highlighted for the upcoming season.

Ranking The Steelers' Starters Post-Season Edition: No. 24-22

Projected starters changed throughout the season.
Steelers' play was inconsistent but still made the playoffs.
morepittsburgh-steelers

A look at the Mets' offense in the last 11 games, which has led to eight wins

Despite initial skepticism, the 2024 Mets are effectively competing for a playoff spot due to their pitching performance and unexpected offensive success.
#washington-capitals

How a regulation win against the Red Wings could save the Capitals' season

The Washington Capitals face a crucial game against the Detroit Red Wings to stay in playoff contention.
A regulation win for the Capitals would significantly boost their chances of making the playoffs.

The Narrative: Things Got Weird, Against All Odds (Take a Look at Me Now), and Differential Equations

The Washington Capitals clinched the final playoff spot in a dramatic turn of events.

How a regulation win against the Red Wings could save the Capitals' season

The Washington Capitals face a crucial game against the Detroit Red Wings to stay in playoff contention.
A regulation win for the Capitals would significantly boost their chances of making the playoffs.

The Narrative: Things Got Weird, Against All Odds (Take a Look at Me Now), and Differential Equations

The Washington Capitals clinched the final playoff spot in a dramatic turn of events.
morewashington-capitals
#nhl

Doughty & McLellan's Comments Point to Internal Issues for Kings

The Los Angeles Kings made a big move by trading for Pierre-Luc Dubois and re-signing him to a long-term contract, but Dubois has been underwhelming and has been placed in the bottom six forward group.
The Kings are currently in a playoff position in the Western Conference, but their recent struggles have raised questions about their internal issues and the job security of head coach Todd McLellan.

Islanders Gameday News: Aiming to rebound in Buffalo

Sabres close to playoff spots with urgency
Islanders focus on key players and power play improvement

San Jose Sharks 2023-24 Obituary: Lost at Sea

The San Jose Sharks were the second NHL team to be mathematically eliminated from playoff contention in the 2023-24 season.
The Sharks struggled with a poor goal differential and long losing streaks during the season.

Roy's 'good energy' propels Isles into likely playoff spot

The Islanders bounced back from a losing streak to be in contention for a playoff spot, showcasing their confidence and resilience.

NHL playoff watch: Must-win game for the Red Wings?

The Detroit Red Wings are the only team from the Atlantic Division still in playoff contention.
Both Detroit and Philadelphia are facing challenges in their recent performances.

Tuesday Caps Clips: Capitals vs. Red Wings Game Day

Alex Ovechkin named NHL's first star of the week
Both Capitals and Red Wings have changed since last meeting

Doughty & McLellan's Comments Point to Internal Issues for Kings

The Los Angeles Kings made a big move by trading for Pierre-Luc Dubois and re-signing him to a long-term contract, but Dubois has been underwhelming and has been placed in the bottom six forward group.
The Kings are currently in a playoff position in the Western Conference, but their recent struggles have raised questions about their internal issues and the job security of head coach Todd McLellan.

Islanders Gameday News: Aiming to rebound in Buffalo

Sabres close to playoff spots with urgency
Islanders focus on key players and power play improvement

San Jose Sharks 2023-24 Obituary: Lost at Sea

The San Jose Sharks were the second NHL team to be mathematically eliminated from playoff contention in the 2023-24 season.
The Sharks struggled with a poor goal differential and long losing streaks during the season.

Roy's 'good energy' propels Isles into likely playoff spot

The Islanders bounced back from a losing streak to be in contention for a playoff spot, showcasing their confidence and resilience.

NHL playoff watch: Must-win game for the Red Wings?

The Detroit Red Wings are the only team from the Atlantic Division still in playoff contention.
Both Detroit and Philadelphia are facing challenges in their recent performances.

Tuesday Caps Clips: Capitals vs. Red Wings Game Day

Alex Ovechkin named NHL's first star of the week
Both Capitals and Red Wings have changed since last meeting
morenhl

Nets show fight in rematch with Indy

The Brooklyn Nets were eliminated from playoff contention for the first time in six years.
Rookie Noah Clowney showcased his potential with a standout performance in a victory over the Indiana Pacers.

Islanders 4, Flyers 3 (OT): Isles give a point away but take two in Philadelphia

The New York Islanders face challenges in maintaining third-period leads, affecting their playoff hopes.
Despite picking up a crucial win, the Islanders' struggles with protecting leads and giving away points continue to plague them.

Jalen Green is averaging (29.3) points during Houston's eight-game win streak

Jalen Green leads Rockets' impressive win streak
Green's hot streak fuels Rockets' playoff contention

Mets make Wild Card according to ZiPS median projected standings

The Mets are projected to finish with 83 wins and claim the third Wild Card spot in the National League according to ZiPS projections.
The Mets may need to make roster moves if their starting pitchers or hitters underperform in order to contend for a playoff spot.

How Patriots players are staying motivated even with playoffs out of reach

The New England Patriots' upcoming game against the Kansas City Chiefs is their first meaningless one since 2020.
Even though they are eliminated from playoff contention, the Patriots still want to play good football and finish the season strongly.
#NFL

Worth repeating: Rams' first winning streak since 2022 has them in playoff picture

The Rams have achieved back-to-back victories for the first time in over a year
They are in the hunt for an NFC playoff spot
The team is cautiously optimistic and focusing on one game at a time

Giants still would be in playoff hunt without few costly gaffes, injuries

The Giants' success in 2022 was not as impressive as it seemed, while their struggles in 2023 are not indicative of their true ability.
The Giants have been plagued by key mistakes in close games that have cost them potential wins.

Worth repeating: Rams' first winning streak since 2022 has them in playoff picture

The Rams have achieved back-to-back victories for the first time in over a year
They are in the hunt for an NFC playoff spot
The team is cautiously optimistic and focusing on one game at a time

Giants still would be in playoff hunt without few costly gaffes, injuries

The Giants' success in 2022 was not as impressive as it seemed, while their struggles in 2023 are not indicative of their true ability.
The Giants have been plagued by key mistakes in close games that have cost them potential wins.
moreNFL

Miguel Rojas is shining at shortstop. Will Dodgers keep him there when Mookie Betts returns?

Miguel Rojas seamlessly filling in as Dodgers' shortstop and highlighting the importance of a reliable defender in playoff contention.

Lennon: Mets' patchwork pitching needs to sort itself out

Finding capable arms is critical for the Mets to maintain their playoff track amidst pitching struggles.
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