This article was written by Matt Foley and published on <a href="https://sportandstate.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Sport &amp; State</a>, a new media company founded by Clay Travis that is built around sports, culture, original voices, and live conversation. * * * * *
A viral Washington Post graphic claims that “Trump officials are considering building a baseball stadium in Grand Teton National Park.”
That’s an admittedly shocking headline. It also misrepresents the real story.
The idea of playing a Major League Baseball game in a national park originated with MLB, not President Trump or the administration, according to both MLB and White House officials who spoke with Sport &amp; State. And despite the Post’s framing, the White House says the proposal is not a presidential directive, is not being driven by the administration, and has not resulted in a single National Park Service permit.
That context appears in the Washington Post’s own reporting. The problem is that the millions of people who have now seen this graphic on social media would never know it.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Exclusive: MLB approached the Trump administration about hosting a game at a national park, officials said, and Grand Teton was scouted.
The Tetons are about “wildlife, opportunity for solitude, not for more amusement,” said the county commissioner. <a href="https://t.co/69m4qo8LJj">https://t.co/69m4qo8LJj</a> <a href="https://t.co/iellOVxHgR">pic.twitter.com/iellOVxHgR</a>
— The Washington Post (@washingtonpost) <a href="https://x.com/washingtonpost/status/2104186845479248307?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
The Post published a <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/climate-environment/2026/09/26/trump-officials-weigh-mlb-game-grand-teton-national-park">report</a> Saturday under the headline, “Trump administration considers building baseball park in Grand Teton National Park.” The social media graphic amplifies the headline.
The actual sequence of events described by MLB and the White House begins with Major League Baseball.
“After the success of MLB’s previous special event games like Field of Dreams, Bristol [Motor Speedway], Rickwood [Field], and many others, we approached the administration to assess the viability of playing a game in a national park as one of many other ideas we are exploring,” an MLB official told Sport &amp; State.
The Post story itself confirms this chain of events. That’s a much different starting point than “Trump wants to build a stadium” inside Grand Teton.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Inaccurate Promotion of Story</h3>
The Washington Post’s decision to inaccurately promote this story to millions of people — the vast majority of whom will never read the actual reporting — is a problematic editorial choice designed to feed off political divisiveness.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Exclusive: MLB approached the Trump administration about hosting a game at a national park, officials said, and Grand Teton was scouted.
The Tetons are about “wildlife, opportunity for solitude, not for more amusement,” said the county commissioner. <a href="https://t.co/69m4qo8LJj">https://t.co/69m4qo8LJj</a> <a href="https://t.co/iellOVxHgR">pic.twitter.com/iellOVxHgR</a>
— The Washington Post (@washingtonpost) <a href="https://x.com/washingtonpost/status/2104186845479248307?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
MLB declined to comment when Sport &amp; State asked whether it considered the Post’s social media characterization accurate. A Washington Post spokesperson stood by the reporting, but did not respond when pressed on whether the headline and social graphic accurately represents that reporting.
On <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Ddyjawtl8rB/?hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WaPo’s Instagram post</a>, which has over 37,000 likes, a community note was added to the post promoting the story, clarifying that the graphic may not represent the facts.
Of course, that didn’t stop thousands of commenters like ... checks notes … model and actress <a href="https://www.instagram.com/christiebrinkley/?hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Christie Brinkley</a> from yelling at the clouds.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1187995" src="https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2026/09/Screenshot-2026-09-29-at-10.51.47-AM.png" alt="" width="656" height="368" srcset="https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2026/09/Screenshot-2026-09-29-at-10.51.47-AM.png 656w, https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2026/09/Screenshot-2026-09-29-at-10.51.47-AM-300x168.png 300w" sizes=" (max-width: 656px) 100vw, 656px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">(Credit: @washingtonpost on Instagram)</figcaption></figure>
The White House called the Post’s framing “quite misleading” and lacking important context.
“The MLB came to the Administration asking if it was possible to host a game at a national park, similar to the Field of Dreams game,” a White House source told Sport &amp; State.
“This is not a Presidential directive, nor is it being directed by the White House. It’s also not being driven by the Department of Interior. Therefore, this is not a White House or Administration priority.”
The White House added that MLB is free to explore potential locations, but “no decisions have been made by the MLB, and no permits have been granted by NPS.”
Those denials are similar to the White House statements in WaPo’s own report.
There is, however, a factual dispute over what happened at Grand Teton.
The Post cited two anonymous sources who said NPS Deputy Director Frank Lands visited the park and looked at three possible locations for a baseball field. The White House disputed that characterization, telling the Post that Lands was already visiting several national parks and “has not been actively scouting sites.”
According to the White House, MLB independently scheduled its Grand Teton visit for the same time. “It is incorrect to say that Frank is actively scouting sites,” the White House told the Post. “It is also incorrect to say that the administration is sending officials to scout sites.”<a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/climate-environment/2026/09/26/trump-officials-weigh-mlb-game-grand-teton-national-park/"> </a>
MLB officials investigating special-event locations and inquiring about whether such an event could happen is decidedly different than a White House administration actively seeking to build a baseball stadium inside one of the country’s prized jewels.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Bottom Line</h3>
None of this means that a Grand Teton baseball game is impossible. MLB clearly has interest, and a source in the Post story says that at least one of the Grand Teton sites is “disturbed land that is not pristine park property,” such as a storage yard. MLB continues to experiment with spectacle-driven games outside traditional ballparks, and the earliest another specialty game could occur is 2028, according to the Post.
Nor does it resolve legitimate questions about whether a sporting event belongs inside a national park. But that’s a totally different debate.
For now, the real story looks much narrower than what’s trending on social media: Major League Baseball wants to explore playing a game in a national park. It approached the federal government about whether that could happen. Grand Teton has emerged as a possible location. No game has been approved, no permit has been issued, and the White House says the project is neither a presidential directive nor an administration priority.
That story may not draw as many new subscribers, but it’s the version supported by both sides, and by WaPo’s actual reporting.

washington-post-grand-teton-baseball-1536×864

No, Trump Is Not Trying To Build A Baseball Stadium In Grand Teton National Park

The Department of Homeland Security published a greatest hits montage of former Philadelphia Eagles defensive back Brian Dawkins.
However, both the <a href="https://sportandstate.com/tag/nfl/">NFL</a> and the Pro Football Hall of Famer didn’t admire the video compilation.
On Sunday evening, DHS posted a 39-second video on X with the text copy “Our time has come” in response to a news report from the account Leading Report, which wrote that a huge migrant caravan was nearing the southern border of the United States. The video has received over eight million views.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Our time has come. https://t.co/xNFNRkAaTq
— Homeland Security (@DHSgov) <a href="https://x.com/DHSgov/status/2104339970794344683?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
DHS then threaded a second post on X with Dawkins pictured amid white smoke and the message, “The Border Is Closed.”
The NFL <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/50053653/nfl-asks-dhs-take-brian-dawkins-social-media-video">reportedly</a> reached out to DHS to remove the video, but as of 5:30 p.m. ET on Monday, both the video and photo of Dawkins remained on the website.
The nine-time Pro Bowler finally addressed the matter in <a href="https://x.com/BrianDawkins/status/2104656984502931868">a social media post</a> earlier this afternoon.
“I didn’t give permission for my name, image, and likeness to be used by anybody, alright, by anybody,” he said in a video. “Take a deep breath. Take a deep breath. Y’all be blessed.”
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
#HelloBlessedPeople🙏🏽
I have respectfully not given permission to anyone other than those I currently do business with to use my NIL. Be Blessed! 🙏🏽
#Breath https://t.co/lXOMwZGLJ3
— Brian Dawkins (@BrianDawkins) <a href="https://x.com/BrianDawkins/status/2104656984502931868?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
When reached by Sport &amp; State for comment, a DHS spokesperson said, “DHS is playing lockdown defense at the border. We will use every weapon at our disposal, from A to X, to keep Americans safe.”
The spokesperson continued, “The United States Border Patrol is actively tracking a migrant caravan which departed San Pedro Sula, Honduras on September 20, 2026. USBP is closely engaged with its international partners to monitor their movement and any additional developments. USBP reminds migrants that under the leadership of President Trump and Homeland Security Secretary Mullin, the border has remained closed and secured for the last 16 months.
“Migrants considering making the dangerous journey to our country should also be aware that the days of “catch and release” are over, and Biden’s disastrous open border policy has been sealed shut. Anyone attempting to illegally enter the United States will be apprehended, prosecuted, and removed from the country.”
Neither the NFL nor Dawkins have responded directly to <a href="https://sportandstate.com/latest-posts/">Sport &amp; State</a> for comment.

brian-dawkins copy

Humorless NFL Requests DHS Remove Video Of Brian Dawkins Mauling Dudes; DHS: Nah

border security

brian dawkins

department of homeland security

immigration

migrant caravan

This article was written by Jason Foster and published on <a href="https://sportandstate.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Sport &amp; State</a>, a new media company founded by Clay Travis that is built around sports, culture, original voices, and live conversation. 
* * * * *
Watch postseason baseball for any significant time, and you quickly realize that there’s often no rhyme or reason to anything. Good teams flop, mediocre teams surge, All-Stars stink, and <a href="https://sportandstate.com/2026/09/24/argh-meet-the-top-candidates-for-mlbs-2026-really-annoying-postseason-guy/">replacement-level guys become heroes</a>.
All that to say, trying to predict the MLB postseason will always be a fool’s errand. So, of course, I’m gonna do it anyway.
Before the postseason starts Tuesday afternoon, here are my bold predictions for the next month, followed by my general predictions for how every series will play out.
Feel free to keep score and laugh at me later.
The Dodgers will not win the World Series
Sorry, LA. There will be no three-peat. As my colleague Matt Foley <a href="https://sportandstate.com/2026/09/25/we-simulated-40000-mlb-postseasons-october-chaos-is-here-to-stay/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" data-type="link" data-id="https://sportandstate.com/2026/09/25/we-simulated-40000-mlb-postseasons-october-chaos-is-here-to-stay/">pointed out recently</a>, even the best teams have, at best, around a 23 percent chance to win the World Series. That means there’s a greater than 75 percent chance that a team other than the Dodgers will be the last one to pour champagne. In a short series, anybody can beat anybody. This is a feature of baseball, not a bug. But if you want drama …
Every Wild Card Series will go the distance
Yes, the Wild Card round will provide some of the greatest drama of the entire postseason. Every series will go down to the wire, making everything absolutely excruciating for fans of the Phillies, Braves, Cubs, Padres, White Sox, Astros, Red Sox and Yankees. For people with no rooting interest, this may prove to be the most enjoyable round of the whole thing. Speaking of enjoyable …
Red Sox vs. Yankees will (finally) be epic
It’s been a while since the Yankees-Red Sox rivalry has felt meaningful to anyone outside those fan bases. For the average fan, it’s been, what, 22 years (2004 ALCS) since it really felt like a big deal? Well, their AL Wild Card Series will reignite what was once considered the greatest rivalry in sports with three games that will really bring the goods. We’re talking a back-and-forth, roller coaster ride the whole time. It’ll also lead to a groundswell of support among fans to turn the Wild Card round into a best-of-five.
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Top 10 moments from the Yankees-Red Sox rivalry | SportsCenter" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/G11BSGEF-0k?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
The biggest salary cap talking point will take a hit
The Rays and Brewers, both of which won the most games in their respective league, despite having the 19th- (Brewers) and 25th (Rays)-ranked payrolls, will really put a kink in the idea that MLB needs a salary cap so small-market teams can actually hope to win the World Series. While both teams already do a good job of bringing that point into question, their showing this postseason will make it a lot harder to sell the idea that the Dodgers have ruined baseball with their bottomless pit of money. Milwaukee and Tampa Bay will have some help with this because …
The Guardians will reach the ALCS
There’s a Cinderella team in every postseason. This year’s version will be the Guardians of the mediocre AL Central. Their scrappy brand of 84-win baseball will elevate the Guardians to Why not us? status as they pick up a slew of bandwagon fans along the way who long for a small-market team — even a mediocre one — to upset one of the hated big boys. But speaking of mid …
The Astros will advance 
Actually, it was Houston that was the <a href="https://sportandstate.com/2026/09/16/al-west-is-in-a-race-to-the-bottom-and-mlb-might-have-to-celebrate-a-loser-in-october/">definition of mediocre</a> this season, winning the AL West with an 81-81 record — the first time ever that an MLB team won its division without finishing above .500. Despite that, the Astros will advance past the Wild Card round. Yes, the host Astros will bounce the 84-78 White Sox and advance to the ALDS to face those AL Central-winning Guardians. It may not seem sexy on the surface, but it doesn’t mean their series won’t be entertaining. Remember: Baseball loves to be weird, especially in October.
Someone who started the season in the minors will have a huge moment
Baseball history has shown us that postseason stardom is rarely limited to, well, the stars. The October spotlight loves to smile on guys who most fans have never heard of to give them a place in postseason immortality — or at least a place on postseason highlight montages for a few years. Count on it happening again this season. But let’s get specific: There will be a player who started the season in the minor leagues who delivers a big clutch hit, a big inning on the mound or a game-changing defensive play. Could be a rookie, could be a journeyman. But speaking of big moments …
Someone will have a three-homer game
Three homers in a playoff game used to be pretty rare. From 1926 through 1978, it happened just five times. But it’s happened eight times since 2002, most recently last season, when Shohei Ohtani launched three dingers against the Brewers in the NLCS. But it’s not always a big name who does it. Remember Adam Kennedy’s three-homer game? Or Chris Taylor’s? Anyone can do it in October, it seems. I can’t wait for this year’s big reveal.
<iframe loading="lazy" title="2002 ALCS Gm5: Adam Kennedy blasts three home runs" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KuHYN8pK6Ms?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Yoshinobu Yamamoto will pitch another complete game
Yamamoto did it TWICE last season for the world champion Dodgers, once in the NLCS and again in the World Series. Before that, it hadn’t happened since Justin Verlander went the distance in Game 2 of the 2017 ALCS. But Yamamoto will do it again this October. It could come in the NLDS, the NLCS or the World Series, but it’s gonna happen. Book it. He’s just built differently. Speaking of good pitching …
Someone will flirt with a perfect game
There have been three no-hitters in postseason history: Don Larsen’s perfect game in Game 5 of the 1956 World Series, Roy Halladay’s no-no in Game 1 of the 2010 NLDS and the Astros’ combined no-hitter in Game 4 of the 2022 World Series. But someone will toy with our emotions this postseason and flirt with perfection. What do I mean by “flirt?” A minimum of six innings. That’s enough to get people thinking, “Man, this could really happen.” Alas, the perfecto bid will be wrecked at some point in the seventh inning or later, probably by a <a href="https://sportandstate.com/2026/09/24/argh-meet-the-top-candidates-for-mlbs-2026-really-annoying-postseason-guy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" data-type="link" data-id="https://sportandstate.com/2026/09/24/argh-meet-the-top-candidates-for-mlbs-2026-really-annoying-postseason-guy/">Really Annoying Postseason Guy</a>.
Bonus: Someone will hit for the cycle
It’s been nearly a decade since Brock Holt of the Red Sox produced the only cycle in postseason history during Game 3 of the 2018 ALDS. But Holt will get some company this postseason after someone delivers a truly epic game. There are seemingly dozens of players who are a genuine threat to do this. It could be Ronald Acuña Jr., it could be Jarren Duran, it could be Jose Altuve, it could be Mookie Betts, it could be Ohtani or it could be a slew of other guys. The mystery is half the fun.
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Brock Holt makes postseason history with cycle" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gYKq2of7yqc?start=1&amp;feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Jason Foster’s 2026 MLB postseason predictions
NL Wild Card Series: Braves over Phillies 
NL Wild Card Series: Cubs over Padres
AL Wild Card Series: Astros over White Sox 
AL Wild Card Series: Red Sox over Yankees
NLDS: Brewers over Cubs 
NLDS: Dodgers over Braves
ALDS: Rays over Red Sox 
ALDS: Guardians over Astros
NLCS: Brewers over Dodgers 
ALCS: Rays over Guardians
World Series: Brewers over Rays

mlb-postseason-crystal-ball-16×9-1 copy

10 Bold Predictions For The MLB Postseason And Predictions On Every Playoff Series

los angeles dodgers

milwaukee brewers

mlb postseason

sports

tampa bay rays

world series

This article was written by Karen Crouse and published on <a href="https://sportandstate.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Sport &amp; State</a>, a new media company founded by Clay Travis that is built around sports, culture, original voices, and live conversation. 
* * * * *
PORTLAND, Ore. — A girl walks out of her house, on her way to a bar, and asks, “Should I bring my mace?”
My friend Angie would not, as it turns out, need her self-defense spray.
I turned down my husband’s offer of pepper spray but did dress with special care for this girls’ afternoon out, settling on a long-sleeved blouse with a books-on-shelves pattern, figuring the only way I’d get kicked out of the place we were headed wearing that top is if I crossed paths with a bibliophobe.
Our destination was <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thesportsbrapdx/?hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Sports Bra</a>, a bar that bills itself as a woman-friendly spot and is particularly cherished by members of the LGBTQIA+ community. But because we live in a world where one person’s woman is another person’s biological male, the lines between inclusivity and coercion have become hopelessly hazy, like the smoke-filled gin joints of the Prohibition era.
My friend and I are both lifelong athletes, and sports are our sacred space. If we showed up to the bar and were asked to leave because something we said in passing made someone uncomfortable, how is that different from biological girls requesting that biological boys be removed from their athletic spaces because they find their presence disconcerting?
The bar, originally hailed as the first to cater to women and women’s sports when it opened in 2022, became known for something altogether different this month when <a href="https://x.com/FoxNews/status/2096921556140056773" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a woman was kicked out of the establishment</a> mid-meal for sporting one of Jennifer Sey’s <a href="https://www.xx-xyathletics.com/?srsltid=AU7gw4Vba5-zhVskQ_Fb9aTzUeRv5DsAuE02Q-Ro23GiNsqqQUs0toyW" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">XX-XY Athletics</a> T-shirts (note: <a href="https://sportandstate.com/latest-posts/">Sport &amp; State</a> founder <a href="https://sportandstate.com/author/claytravis/">Clay Travis</a> is an XX-XY investor) that are either staunchly pro-woman or an affront to transgender athletes, depending on your point of view.
Two regular customers, both part of the transgender community, expressed discomfort at the messages on the shirt, I was told, leading to a server politely asking the group to leave. A restaurant staffer told me the party was refunded the cost of its meals within days, but that was not the end of the story.
<div id="attachment_1187795" style="width: 870px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1187795" class="wp-image-1187795 size-large" src="https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2026/09/Sport-image-1-860x576.jpeg" alt="" width="860" height="576" srcset="https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2026/09/Sport-image-1-860x576.jpeg 860w, https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2026/09/Sport-image-1-300x201.jpeg 300w, https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2026/09/Sport-image-1-768x515.jpeg 768w, https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2026/09/Sport-image-1.jpeg 1200w" sizes=" (max-width: 860px) 100vw, 860px" />Credit: Sport &amp; State</div>
The simmering hostilities boiled over into the street outside the bar <a href="https://www.oregonlive.com/portland/2026/09/protesters-clash-over-trans-rights-at-portlands-sports-bra-bar.html">two Sundays ago</a> when roughly a dozen protesters gathered, identifying themselves as advocates for biological women in sports and ostensibly championing the right of diners to exercise free speech.
They were soon joined by a larger contingent of counterprotesters, including groups supporting transgender rights. In the ensuing clash, mace and pepper spray were deployed and windows of a nearby grocery store were broken, though no arrests were made.
Our curiosity piqued, my friend and I showed up this past Sunday for a late lunch with a side of first-round WNBA playoff games. We’d heard and read so much about this bar. We wanted to see for ourselves what their brand of inclusion looked like.
The bar, which can accommodate roughly 45 patrons, was standing room only when we arrived. Three of the five television screens were showing the game between the top-seeded Minnesota Lynx and the eighth-seeded New York Liberty. The other two screens were turned to a soccer match and a softball game.
The Lynx, led by the resplendent rookie, Olivia Miles, and their coach, Cheryl Reeve, a vocal supporter of transgender rights, had a vocal following. But no more so than the Liberty, whose starters included the former Oregon star Sabrina Ionescu and Breanna Stewart, who began her pro career with the Seattle Storm, which many Portlanders supported before the Portland Fire entered the league this year.
After the Liberty’s upset of the Lynx in the best-of-three series, the bar began to empty out. While waiting for our order, we talked to the bar manager, who expressed relief that the afternoon was unfolding peaceably.
“We’re still on edge a little bit,” she said.
She introduced herself as Veronica and asked to be identified only by her first name to avoid being targeted by the same people who have bombarded the small business with overwhelmingly negative voicemails since a Washington resident, <a href="https://x.com/KnownHeretic">Amy E. Sousa</a>, posted a video that went viral of her group being asked by a server to leave.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Amy Sousa says five people in her group were removed from a Portland women&#8217;s sports bar after patrons complained that their shirts were making them &#8220;uncomfortable.&#8221;
Video captures a staff member warning the group that authorities could be called if they refused to leave.
On the same day, Sousa and seven others were also ejected from a Portland Thorns match after stadium security flagged their shirts bearing messages including &#8220;Save Women&#8217;s Sports&#8221; and &#8220;Woman.&#8221;
— Fox News (@FoxNews) <a href="https://x.com/FoxNews/status/2096921556140056773?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
The volume of the vitriol has been unnerving. I was honest with Veronica. While I would never lash out, I am a firm believer that women’s sports should be the exclusive domain of biological women. I described my reasoning, delivering the same message verbally that Sousa had delivered sartorially.
“You don’t need to agree with what we stand for,” Veronica responded. “This is a small business that was built to serve a specific clientele and we’re very dedicated to being a safe space for that clientele. If you don’t agree with what we stand for, don’t come here and agitate and try to get a rise out of people for clickbait.”
In the Venn diagram of politics, culture and religion, sports used to be the one place where they all overlapped. Not anymore. Now sports has become just another battleground. The best thing The Sports Bra regulars could have done was ignore the T-shirts they found offensive. If they had walked away instead of engaging — or remained quiet as they are essentially demanding pro-women advocates in sports do — all of the vitriol would have been avoided.
What could be achieved if we all chose honest, open, sometimes excruciating conversation instead of clicks and comfort?
After the Lynx-Liberty contest, the three television screens devoted to basketball showed the reigning champion Las Vegas Aces, the No. 3 seed, playing the Caitlin Clark-led Indiana Fever, the sixth seed. Wren, an avid basketball fan, was watching the game with friends Hannah and Nikki.
<div id="attachment_1187801" style="width: 522px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1187801" class="wp-image-1187801 size-large" src="https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2026/09/sport-image-2-512x576.jpeg" alt="" width="512" height="576" srcset="https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2026/09/sport-image-2-512x576.jpeg 512w, https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2026/09/sport-image-2-267x300.jpeg 267w, https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2026/09/sport-image-2-768x864.jpeg 768w, https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2026/09/sport-image-2.jpeg 1000w" sizes=" (max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px" />The Sports Bra patrons, left to right, Hannah, Nikki and Wren (Credit: Sport &amp; State)</div>
Wren, who lives in the neighborhood, explained that she was headed by foot to The Sports Bra two Sundays ago to watch the Portland Fire’s road game against the Los Angeles Sparks when she saw the protesters clustered around her destination.
Wanting no part of that scene, she ducked into the first bar she saw. It was <a href="https://www.facebook.com/p/Hop-Haven-100063505485553/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hop Haven</a>, and since she had never been there before, she worried about what kind of reception she would receive. She asked if one of the television screens could be turned to the Fire game, which started at 4 p.m.
The bartender said no problem but cautioned her that in a little over an hour, a group of regulars, all Kansas City Chiefs fans, would be filling the place for their team’s home opener against the Indianapolis Colts.
Wren settled in to watch the Fire and soon found herself surrounded by a sea of strangers dressed in red. “This might turn out really bad,” she remembered thinking.
She was about ready to hightail it out of there. But then the most wonderful thing happened. “I made friends with people,” she said.
The Fire game remained on one screen, and during breaks in play she struck up a conversation with a man named AJ who, if she had to guess, was roughly the same age as her father. “He seemed safe to speak to,” Wren said. She asked him questions about football and the Chiefs, and he asked her about soccer and the Fire.
This past Sunday, she was back at The Sports Bra, her personal “Cheers”, watching the Aces turn back the Indiana Fever 102-85. But she couldn’t get her interaction with AJ out of her mind. She thought of the unlikely connection forged that day.
“Ultimately, we were both there to be ‘yay, sports!’” Wren said.
Conversation over comfort. It’s the only way forward.

sports-bra-portland copy

‘Yay, Sports!’ Trip To Portland Bar Confirms Conversation Over Comfort Is Path Forward

clay travis

jennifer sey

portland

sports bra

transgender athletes in women's sports

wnba

This article was written by Gus Wilson and published on <a href="https://sportandstate.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Sport &amp; State</a>, a new media company founded by Clay Travis that is built around sports, culture, original voices, and live conversation. 
* * * * *
The Super Bowl hangover hit both of last year’s participants hard in Week 3 of the NFL season.
Both the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks suffered disappointing losses Sunday, with last year’s AFC champions getting blown out 35-6 by the Jacksonville Jaguars and the reigning champs falling 33-31 to the winless Washington Commanders.
The story of the Patriots’ season so far has been the lackluster play of quarterback Drake Maye, which was on full display against Jacksonville. The young signal caller finished the day 14-for-25 for just 199 yards with two interceptions and a lost fumble, marking his second three-turnover performance in three games, with the first coming in the Super Bowl LX <a href="https://sportandstate.com/2026/09/10/drake-maye-is-still-seeing-ghosts-against-seattle-seven-months-later/">rematch</a> in the season opener.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
TRAVIS HUNTER&#8217;S FIRST CAREER INT https://t.co/2Se7g3pV1u
— NFL on CBS 🏈 (@NFLonCBS) <a href="https://x.com/NFLonCBS/status/2104278548726837529?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
The Jaguars were so dominant that they were actively trying to run out the clock with nearly nine minutes remaining in the fourth quarter, when quarterback Trevor Lawrence gave himself up on the one-yard line instead of taking the walk-in touchdown.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Trevor Lawrence gets through put takes a knee before the end zone.
#NFL https://t.co/2zO2Iby4Qz
— TSN (@TSN_Sports) <a href="https://x.com/TSN_Sports/status/2104296380764143630?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
Mack Hollins didn’t seem to care about the score, earning a taunting penalty for celebrating a first down while trailing by 25 points.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
https://t.co/vYt4jVGC0v
— Follow @ZeroChillSports (@FollowZeroChill) <a href="https://x.com/FollowZeroChill/status/2104293778622148925?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
The 1-2 start is not going unnoticed by head coach Mike Vrabel, who was not happy, to say the least.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
#Patriots HC Mike Vrabel postgame:
“My concern level is very high for this football team. I just wanna coach and improve. I think that’s the biggest thing when you come off a game like that. You just wanna get back and work.”
(🎥 @Patriots) https://t.co/qXHV9FdCON
— Carlos A. Lopez (@LosTalksPats) <a href="https://x.com/LosTalksPats/status/2104303624910426290?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
Things are not looking great in New England.
Despite the close score in the NFC matchup, Seattle’s performance was nothing to boast about. The Seahawks spent much of the afternoon playing from behind, despite the Commanders being without starting quarterback Jayden Daniels.
Marcus Mariota, who started in relief, had three passing touchdowns and later picked up the game-sealing first-down run for their first win this season.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Marcus Mariota just called game!
@SEAvsWAS on FOX/FOX One 
Stream on @NFLPlus https://t.co/rsIGdzozr9
— NFL (@NFL) <a href="https://x.com/NFL/status/2104306889223987603?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
Sam Darnold actually threw for more touchdowns in his return than Mariota, tallying four. The problem? He also threw two interceptions, including a late pick-six that put Washington in control.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
COMMANDERS PICK-6 🚨
@SEAvsWAS on FOX/FOX One 
Stream on @NFLPlus https://t.co/bNetOkZzxu
— NFL (@NFL) <a href="https://x.com/NFL/status/2104302704462086396?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
Both teams will look to figure it out next week. The Patriots have to rebound against the undefeated Buffalo Bills, while Seattle is taking on the Los Angeles Chargers, who are eagerly trying to earn their first win.

SSWeek3Hangover-1 copy

The Super Bowl Hangover Was In Full Force In Week 3

drake maye

new england patriots

seattle seahawks

super bowl

clay-travis-president-trump-texas-1536×864

Clay Travis’ Starting 11: Texas Outlasts Tennessee With President Trump Attending

college football

donald trump

protect college sports act

tennessee volunteers

texas longhorns

This article was written by Gus Wilson and published on <a href="https://sportandstate.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Sport &amp; State</a>, a new media company founded by Clay Travis that is built around sports, culture, original voices, and live conversation. 
* * * * *
Another top-25 matchup, another woman in the stands goes viral simply for cheering on her school.
During the fourth quarter of the Florida Gators’ beatdown of the Ole Miss Rebels this past Saturday, ABC’s broadcast cut to the crowd and landed on a blonde Florida fan. The shot lingered for a few seconds before returning to the game.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The cameraman zooming in is CRAZY 😭 https://t.co/G5QNcLHNhG
— BrickCenter (@BrickCenter_) <a href="https://x.com/BrickCenter_/status/2103997428303294880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<a href="https://sportandstate.com/2026/09/07/ole-miss-fan-is-latest-woman-to-go-viral-during-prime-time-college-football-game/">I said it last time</a>, and I’ll say it again: to whoever was in control of that shot, we see what you were doing.
People are catching on.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
No one:
ESPN camera men: https://t.co/5ygQFwUnxt
— College Sports Only (@CSOonX) <a href="https://x.com/CSOonX/status/2104220493930754406?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
The internet’s reaction was no different from what happened with the <a href="https://sportandstate.com/2026/09/07/ole-miss-fan-is-latest-woman-to-go-viral-during-prime-time-college-football-game/">Ole Miss fan who went viral in Week 1</a>.
Unlike Sara Smith, however, this viral Florida fan made sure there was no question about her identity.
Meet <a href="https://www.instagram.com/peytonblomquist/">Peyton Blomquist</a>, a freshman at the University of Florida who is currently sitting at roughly 35,000 followers at the time of publication. Blomquist confirmed she was the fan who caught everyone’s attention by posting the moment she appeared on television.
<blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Ddyx-LBgB9A/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14">
<div style="padding: 16px;">
&nbsp;
<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div>
<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div>
<div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div>
<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div>
</div>
<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div>
<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div>
<div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #F4F4F4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div>
<div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div>
</div>
&nbsp;
<p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Ddyx-LBgB9A/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by peyton blomquist (@peytonblomquist)</a>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>
The post is flooded with comments from those who saw her on their TVs Saturday afternoon, with one claiming she was at 25,000 followers just 16 hours earlier.
Judging by the comments, it wouldn’t be surprising if Blomquist made a <a href="https://sportandstate.com/2026/09/08/ole-miss-fan-responds-to-viral-moment-by-hopping-on-tiktok-to-reveal-instagram-dms/">TikTok similar to Smith’s when she exposed her DMs</a> after her five seconds of fame.
Sport &amp; State reached out to Blomquist for a comment on her viral moment and what comes next. At the time of publication, she had not responded.
Ole Miss may have lost to Florida on the field, but the Rebels and Gators are tied when it comes to blonde fans becoming social media stars just for supporting their schools.

Sport and State Viral Fan copy

Camera Crew Strikes Again With Viral Florida Fan During Ole Miss Game

florida gators

ole miss rebels

social media

viral moment

This article was written by Gus Wilson and published on <a href="https://sportandstate.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sport &amp; State</a>, a new media company founded by Clay Travis that is built around sports, culture, original voices, and live conversation.
* * * * *
Amidst all of the madness of college football Saturday night, the UFC’s Fight Night ended in scary fashion after an unusual finish in the final event.
During the main event of UFC Vegas 121, Raul Rosas Jr. beat Raoni Barcelos in an extremely confusing ending. Rosas took Barcelos down nearly two minutes into the final round before his opponent suddenly lost consciousness despite no obvious serious contact.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
What happened to Raoni Barcelos here??
He was taken out on a stretcher… <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/UFCVegas121?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UFCVegas121</a> <a href="https://t.co/zIqHtRQomy">pic.twitter.com/zIqHtRQomy</a>
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) <a href="https://x.com/ChampRDS/status/2104039199666037167?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
While devastating knockouts happen all the time, this was much different.
The health of Barcelos became the immediate concern. The veteran bantamweight is 39 years old, 18 years older than his opponent. Barcelos was stretchered out of the Octagon by the company’s medical team after his condition did not improve.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🚨Scary scene here
Raoni Barcelos goes limp while fighting Raul Rosas Jr.
Unclear exactly what may have caused it, but you can see Barcelos gets taken down and goes limp after potentially hitting his head on the mat (?).
Not super clear exactly what happened, but with the… <a href="https://t.co/k02Ndqlxw5">https://t.co/k02Ndqlxw5</a> <a href="https://t.co/Dar1FoYJw9">pic.twitter.com/Dar1FoYJw9</a>
— Jesse Morse, M.D. (@DrJesseMorse) <a href="https://x.com/DrJesseMorse/status/2104045167711789437?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
Rosas appeared shaken following the win, immediately addressing the health of his opponent during the post-fight interview.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
&#8220;Please pray for Raoni Barcelos.&#8221;<a href="https://x.com/hashtag/UFCVegas121?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UFCVegas121</a> <a href="https://t.co/CcsS2j1TRU">pic.twitter.com/CcsS2j1TRU</a>
— UFC (@ufc) <a href="https://x.com/ufc/status/2104042125944054239?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
Heading into the final round, Barcelos was up 3-1 on all three judges’ scorecards, including a 10-8 score in the fourth round from judge Chris Lee. But the strange finish was a win nonetheless, improving Rosas’s UFC record to 7-1.
It was an absolute war from both sides, with 10 takedowns between the fighters and 240 significant strikes.
UFC provided an update on Barcelos early Sunday morning.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
“Barcelos is stable, alert and responsive, with full movement.” <a href="https://t.co/V5NN8t9HEI">https://t.co/V5NN8t9HEI</a>
— UFC (@ufc) <a href="https://x.com/ufc/status/2104090785100796239?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
Barcelos’ coach also provided an update on his fighter.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🚨 Raoni Barcelos’ coach says he’s okay after the scary ending against Raul Rosas Jr
“Everything’s alright. Everyone can relax.” <a href="https://t.co/fuxdKbHAUh">pic.twitter.com/fuxdKbHAUh</a>
— Happy Punch (@HappyPunch) <a href="https://x.com/HappyPunch/status/2104062231763726574?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

SSBarcelosUFC-1536×864

UFC Main Event Ends In Frightening Fashion After Raoni Barcelos Goes Unconscious

mixed martial arts

raoni barcelos

raul rosas jr

ufc vegas 121

Forget the postgame interviews. The biggest conversation that took place during Texas-Tennessee happened between Sport &amp; State founder <a href="https://x.com/ClayTravis" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Clay Travis</a> and President Donald Trump inside Neyland Stadium.
Travis interviewed Trump during halftime of Saturday’s game between the <a href="https://sportandstate.com/2026/09/24/the-real-ut-debate-texas-or-tennessee-could-result-in-this-writer-being-fired/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Battle of the UTs</a> with the Longhorns up 10-3 on the Volunteers.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Full interview with President <a href="https://x.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> from Neyland Stadium. <a href="https://t.co/wchzibCa9v">pic.twitter.com/wchzibCa9v</a>
— Clay Travis (@ClayTravis) <a href="https://x.com/ClayTravis/status/2103915067372982601?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
“We love this state. We love Texas. They’re two competitive teams. It looks like a pretty good game so far,” Trump told Travis.
Trump expressed his optimism that the House of Representatives will pass the Protect College Sports Act when it gets back in session. “I think the House will come through, too,” he said.
Trump arrived in style to the marquee matchup as Air Force One flew over the 100,000-plus seat stadium ahead of kickoff.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Presidential arrival. 🇺🇸
Air Force One with an EPIC flyover at Neyland Stadium. <a href="https://t.co/YVIGSWi24L">pic.twitter.com/YVIGSWi24L</a>
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://x.com/WhiteHouse/status/2103874908019212323?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
Meanwhile, the ABC broadcast showed the 45th and 47th U.S. President on college football fans’ TV screens around the 11-minute mark of the first quarter.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
President Trump is introduced on the big screen inside Neyland Stadium <a href="https://t.co/e2CB379Ct4">pic.twitter.com/e2CB379Ct4</a>
— Sport &amp; State (@SportNState) <a href="https://x.com/SportNState/status/2103888543516905626?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
In 2026, Trump has attended several high-profile sporting events, including the College Football Playoff National Championship (January), Game 3 of the NBA Finals (June), FIFA World Cup final (July), and IndyCar Freedom 250 Grand Prix (August), among others.
He is also <a href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/09/21/trump-to-visit-presidents-cup-medinah-country-club-illinois-pritzker" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">scheduled to attend</a> the Presidents Cup at Medinah Country Club in Chicago tomorrow.

president-trump-clay-travis-1536×864

EXCLUSIVE: Clay Travis Interviews President Donald Trump During Tennessee-Texas Game

If your Saturday doesn’t have your butt firmly planted on the couch for the Week 4 slate, you don’t have anyone else to blame but yourself on this one.
LSU tries to get back in the win column and avoid two very early losses in the Lane Kiffin era, while Clemson and coach Dabo Swinney silenced some critics — for at least another week.
Meanwhile, some members of our team at Sport &amp; State arrived in Knoxville, Tenn. last night ahead of today’s marquee tilt between No. 1 Texas and No. 14 Tennessee in the Battle of the UTs.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
LIVE from Wagon Wheel in the Old City 🍊
LIVE on <a href="https://x.com/Hutton_Withrow?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Hutton_Withrow</a> &amp; <a href="https://x.com/OnTiltShow?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OnTiltShow</a> YouTube <a href="https://t.co/X6UlKcn22T">pic.twitter.com/X6UlKcn22T</a>
— Sport &amp; State (@SportNState) <a href="https://x.com/SportNState/status/2103642678499922429?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
For the Southeastern Conference, today set the AP poll record with four ranked games in a single day — it might as well be Christmas for college football fans in the South.
Might I suggest some halftime walks around the neighborhood. Make sure to stay hydrated, too.
Let’s roll.
What We Learned Friday Night
Northwestern at Indiana (29-23)
Pain.
No offense, but that’s exactly how I imagine it sometimes feels to be a fan of the Wildcats. Indiana went up 12-0 on Northwestern at halftime before the Wildcats inched their way back to essentially a one possession game for much of the fourth quarter. Then, some shake-your-fist-at-the-sky types of plays happened.
If you don’t believe me, I present to you below Exhibit A and Exhibit B.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Northwestern had Indiana 3rd and 19 and a loss of 5 but commits a face mask. Just brutal. <a href="https://t.co/o12qOFK53e">pic.twitter.com/o12qOFK53e</a>
— Chad Fisher DNP (@ChadFisher) <a href="https://x.com/ChadFisher/status/2103685608866501037?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Stopping an opponent 5 but not 6 plays in a row at the 1 yard line to lose the game is brutal. 💀 <a href="https://t.co/Kyb7zgnVOA">pic.twitter.com/Kyb7zgnVOA</a>
— RedditCFB (@RedditCFB) <a href="https://x.com/RedditCFB/status/2103693688056820115?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
Like I said, painful.
The Cats, who were 21-point underdogs against the Hoosiers, still have a lot to look forward to with over two-thirds of the season remaining and the opening of their new 35,000-seat venue next week against Penn State.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Northwestern’s new $850M+ stadium opens next week, and the first look inside is absolutely insane
This place is something else
🎥: <a href="https://x.com/Timioke28?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Timioke28</a> <a href="https://t.co/eZqOc5GQ7a">pic.twitter.com/eZqOc5GQ7a</a>
— Bussin&#8217; With The Boys (@BussinWTB) <a href="https://x.com/BussinWTB/status/2103144949785219385?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
As for the Hoosiers, this isn’t the same 16-0 team from a season ago. That was fairly evident Friday night at Memorial Stadium. Could it be attributed to a “national championship hangover” that coach Curt Cignetti alluded to after the victory? Maybe.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Cignetti: “I’m sure everybody’s disappointed because they still have the national championship hangover, but I can’t do anything about that.”<a href="https://x.com/hashtag/iufb?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#iufb</a> <a href="https://t.co/uSPm66gl2n">pic.twitter.com/uSPm66gl2n</a>
— Ian Plaskoff (@ian_plaskoff) <a href="https://x.com/ian_plaskoff/status/2103708260746612966?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
While TCU transfer quarterback Josh Hoover still tries to find some rhythm in Bloomington, Ind., the Hoosiers soon head into the meat of their Big Ten schedule with three of their next six contests against ranked opponents, including a date with Ohio State in mid-October. Buckle up, folks.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
It&#8217;s just the first game of the Big Ten schedule, but Josh Hoover ain&#8217;t Fernando Mendoza.
— Tom Fornelli (@TomFornelli) <a href="https://x.com/TomFornelli/status/2103650508225515768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
Clemson (24-10) at Cal
Ah, the wonderful smell of conference realignment.
Clemson wrapped up its win over Cal around 2 a.m. ET, prompting Tigers coach Dabo Swinney to coin the phrase “ACC after midnight” in his postgame interview with ESPN.
And yes, I was one of those college football fans sickos who stayed up to watch.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Clemson coach Dabo Swinney to ESPN postgame: &#8220;I don&#8217;t even know what time it is. We&#8217;re just happy to get the win &#8212; and hopefully somebody stayed up back home to watch it. ACC after midnight, right?&#8221;
— Chapel Fowler (@chapelfowler) <a href="https://x.com/chapelfowler/status/2103729843724800126?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
For those who didn’t, which I am assuming is 99.9% of you, here’s what you need to know: the Tigers’ defense held the Golden Bears to 231 yards of total offense, while Clemson running back Gideon Davidson carried the ball 22 times for 159 yards and two touchdowns, giving the team a 253 to 86 yard advantage on the ground.
That 41-point Tiger spanking at the hands of LSU in Week 1 seems like forever ago at this point.
With that said, let’s dive into today’s top matchups.
No. 1 Texas at No. 14 Tennessee — 12 p.m. ET, ABC
The best game of Saturday’s loaded college football slate is the Battle of the UTs, though hopefully you’re fueled by some <a href="https://crockettcoffee.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Crocket Coffee</a> due to the early kickoff.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Wake Up, It’s Gameday on Rocky Top 🍊 <a href="https://t.co/4JZH4euOB8">pic.twitter.com/4JZH4euOB8</a>
— Sport &amp; State (@SportNState) <a href="https://x.com/SportNState/status/2103811159090757920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> 
All eyes will be on Neyland Stadium as President Donald Trump is expected to be in attendance. ESPN’s College GameDay, featuring Vol legend Peyton Manning and guest picker Johnny Knoxville, will also be on site as East Tennessee becomes the center of the college football universe. Fox’s Big Noon Kickoff pregame show is in Columbus, but will have correspondent Clay Travis (hey, we know him!) live in Knoxville.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I am taking Tennessee +4.5 &amp; the Under 55.5 on <a href="https://x.com/HardRockBet?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HardRockBet</a> in tomorrow&#8217;s big-time matchup on Rocky Top. I will be there, President Donald Trump will be there, and so will 101,000+ others. Just don&#8217;t storm the field after the win. Take both on the Hard Rock App to get a boost! <a href="https://t.co/W7gIzKlV4p">pic.twitter.com/W7gIzKlV4p</a>
— Clay Travis (@ClayTravis) <a href="https://x.com/ClayTravis/status/2103539813076893746?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> 
The Vols are 2-17 in their last 19 games against AP top-ranked teams, so the odds aren’t exactly in Tennessee’s favor against the Longhorns.
The good news? The Vols have 100,000-plus screaming fans decked out in orange and white supporting the program and their 18-year-old freshman quarterback Faizon Brandon, who <a href="https://sportandstate.com/2026/09/24/will-freshman-phenom-faizon-brandon-pass-his-first-test-vs-texas/?_sm_nck=1">faces his first true test</a> later today.
And maybe, just maybe, the winner can finally lay claim to the title of The Real UT.
<a href="https://sportandstate.com/2026/09/24/the-real-ut-debate-texas-or-tennessee-could-result-in-this-writer-being-fired/?_sm_nck=1">Spoiler: there’s already a winner in my book.</a>
No. 4 Ole Miss at No. 21 Florida — 3:30 p.m. ET, ABC
Ole Miss hasn’t won in The Swamp since 2008, but now the program has Heisman frontruner Trinidad Chambliss under center. The senior transfer has thrown seven touchdowns and 924 yards, good for 10th overall in the FBS, during the 2026 season.
The Rebels are riding high following last weekend’s statement win against LSU and coach Lane Kiffin, who returned to Oxford, Miss. for the first time since he departed amid the 2025 postseason.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Viral Photo Of Players Taunting Lane Kiffin Taken By 20-Year-Old Ole Miss Student
✍️: <a href="https://x.com/ByGusWilson?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ByGusWilson</a> <a href="https://t.co/oRJ3EHX6Ag">https://t.co/oRJ3EHX6Ag</a>
— Sport &amp; State (@SportNState) <a href="https://x.com/SportNState/status/2103216651227308255?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
Still, I attended Florida-Auburn last weekend on the Plains, and Gator Nation should feel encouraged as the team tries to reach last year’s win total later today.
Against the Tigers, Florida redshirt sophomore quarterback Aaron Philo looked cool, calm, and collected in the pocket, while junior running back Jadan Baugh, who is tied for an FBS-leading eight touchdowns on the ground, torched the Tigers with 162 rushing yards and three scores.
I don’t consider myself an elite ball knower, but something special seems to be brewing in the Jon Sumrall era.
No. 17 at No. 18 Michigan — 3:30 p.m. ET, CBS
I’m not exactly sure what our fearless leader at Sport &amp; State has against my undefeated Wolverines, but Clay Travis is <a href="https://sportandstate.com/2026/09/23/clay-travis-college-football-2026-picks-week-4-comeback-continues-with-9-overs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">picking</a> the Hawkeyes +4 and to win outright in Ann Arbor, Mich.
I respect Iowa’s <a href="https://www.ncaa.com/stats/football/fbs/current/team/22" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">No. 1 ranked</a> defense, I really do, but it’s still hard for me to #respectthepicks.
Oddsmakers have projected the over/under in the 38-40 point range, making it the lowest score of any college football game this week.
In other words, expect your eyes to bleed with touchdowns at a premium. Watch at your own peril.
No. 20 Oregon at No. 12 USC – 7:30 p.m. ET, NBC
With one loss before October, there might be more pressure in Eugene, Ore. than a typical season. The Ducks head to The Coliseum for their first Big Ten game of 2026. Another loss means Oregon is on the outside of the College Football Playoff picture and may need to run the table to earn a spot.
Meanwhile, the Trojans are 4-0, but still have not made the postseason during their four prior seasons with coach Lincoln Riley at the helm.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
“If they lose Saturday, it is reasonable to say Lincoln Riley is on the hot seat.”
—<a href="https://x.com/PeteThamel?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PeteThamel</a> on how important it is for the Trojans to beat Oregon 🔥 <a href="https://t.co/6A6yRCblhP">pic.twitter.com/6A6yRCblhP</a>
— ESPN College Football (@ESPNCFB) <a href="https://x.com/ESPNCFB/status/2103585462082257030?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
A win against the Ducks would provide a little bit of breathing room for USC, which still has three games remaining against top-15 ranked opponents.
Maybe with Saturday’s game, Riley convinces me he is actually for real.
No. 23 Texas A&amp;M at No. 10 LSU – 7:45 p.m. ET, ABC
Either the Aggies or Tigers will have two SEC losses before October, leading to one of the fanbases likely pushing the DEFCON 2, maybe 1, button this early in 2026.
Can LSU bounce back at Tiger Stadium after an emotional, nail-biting loss to Ole Miss a week ago?
What’s Texas A&amp;M’s response after losing a stunner at home to Kentucky and first-year head coach Will Stein?
Welcome to the SEC pressure cooker.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Will Stein after Kentucky’s upset win over Texas A&amp;M:
“I’m not shocked… This is what Kentucky football is supposed to look like.”
Confidence. <a href="https://t.co/GrMvNxpQxi">pic.twitter.com/GrMvNxpQxi</a>
— Tristan Pharis (@TristanUda) <a href="https://x.com/TristanUda/status/2101468742290919841?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 20, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
No. 19 Missouri at No. 24 Mississippi St. – 7:45 p.m. ET, SEC Network
All <a href="https://sportandstate.com/2026/09/14/kamario-taylor-new-heisman-candidate-in-the-sec/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">I keep reading about</a> with Mississippi State is sophomore quarterback Kamario Taylor, who is tied for second in all of the FBS with 11 passing touchdowns. He may even be a darkhorse candidate for the Heisman Trophy, according to my colleague <a href="https://x.com/mattyfoles" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Matt Foley</a>.
&nbsp;
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-x wp-block-embed-x">
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"></div>
</figure>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Kamario Taylor is going to be really, really good.
I&#8217;ve never seen a ball explode like this at the point of release.
The bidding war will be insane this offseason. 
<a href="https://t.co/uaTCTB2VJW">pic.twitter.com/uaTCTB2VJW</a>
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) <a href="https://x.com/NFL_DovKleiman/status/2102068839357788182?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 21, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
“Kamario Taylor is a dude,” said Sport &amp; State’s Chad Withrow on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/tCkI9eEVlhA" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hutton &amp; Withrow</a> two weeks ago.
You have my full attention, Mr. Taylor.
Cignetti’s Pre-Snap Fiasco
Indiana coach Curt Cignetti crashed out, also known as he lost his ever-loving mind, on Friday night.
Two penalties. One timeout. All before the Hoosiers’ first snap. That’s got to be some type of record.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Two illegal snap penalties before Indiana even ran a play had Curt Cignetti demanding answers from the refs. <a href="https://t.co/SGj4Etfrsl">pic.twitter.com/SGj4Etfrsl</a>
— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) <a href="https://x.com/CFBONFOX/status/2103718159358517379?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
The Most Interesting CFB Personality In 2026
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
College football has a 28-year-old Aussie punter with 100+ tattoos, a tornado kick, and an outsized personality.
Daniel Hughes (<a href="https://x.com/danielhughes94p?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@danielhughes94p</a>) is quite the character.
✍️: <a href="https://x.com/markjburns88?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@markjburns88</a> <a href="https://t.co/qfcVOgoIJL">https://t.co/qfcVOgoIJL</a>
— Sport &amp; State (@SportNState) <a href="https://x.com/SportNState/status/2103556345228099687?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

tennessee-gameday-1536×864

College Football Kickoff: Top-25 Showdowns, Friday Night Reactions, And What’s On Tap

clemson tigers

indiana hoosiers

Nick Saban didn’t make any new friends in Knoxville, Tenn. this morning.
The former Alabama coach casually dropped his 16-1 all-time record against the Tennessee Volunteers during a segment on ESPN College GameDay. The reaction was, well, what you would expect.
“I’m all in on the University of Tennessee,” said Saban, “because we smoked 16 of 17 cigars when we played you all,” leading the sea of Vols fans around the GameDay set to start a very loud and clear “F* Nick Saban” chant on live TV. Ouch.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
That&#8217;s so rude Coach Saban 😂😂<a href="https://x.com/hashtag/CollegeGameDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CollegeGameDay</a> <a href="https://t.co/JMEnZOh5ZR">pic.twitter.com/JMEnZOh5ZR</a>
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) <a href="https://x.com/PatMcAfeeShow/status/2103841579249373607?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
“Oh, geez,” said ESPN’s Pat McAfee when he finally heard the profanity. “They were saying ‘Truck Nick Saban. They were saying ‘Truck Arch Manning‘ earlier and ‘Truck Lane Kiffin.’ “
“You can’t take a joke,” smiled Saban, whose only loss to Tennessee came in 2022 when the Vols made a last-second field to win 52-49 at Neyland Stadium in an absolute classic.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Tennessee beats Alabama and the UT fans storm the field! ⁦<a href="https://x.com/rockytopinsider?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rockytopinsider</a>⁩ <a href="https://t.co/RELv4VPyLd">pic.twitter.com/RELv4VPyLd</a>
— Ric Butler (@Ric_Butler) <a href="https://x.com/Ric_Butler/status/1581439651193069570?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
Still, Saban had some more fun with the Tennessee contingent as he appeared to be singing Rocky Top with McAfee filming. Avert your eyes now, Tide fans!
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Nick Saban singing Rocky Top?? 😂🍊 <a href="https://t.co/wUtXDqnuiA">pic.twitter.com/wUtXDqnuiA</a>
— Sport &amp; State (@SportNState) <a href="https://x.com/SportNState/status/2103844708497735975?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
Throwin’ Is Easy, Too
As Vols coach Josh Heupel spoke with the GameDay crew this morning, McAfee challenged the former college quarterback to a $100,000 crossbar throw for charity.
Challenge accepted, he said.
Heupel’s casual 25-yard toss hit the crossbar dead-center, with the sixth-year coach effectively saying ‘talk to you later’ as he removed his headset. That’s quite a walkoff statement.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Tennessee Coach Josh Heupel nails the crossbar for a charitable donation on College GameDay… on his FIRST try. <a href="https://t.co/5W1qJnk23R">pic.twitter.com/5W1qJnk23R</a>
— Sport &amp; State (@SportNState) <a href="https://x.com/SportNState/status/2103850028737708221?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
It might be a good omen for Rocky Top as Tennessee hosts top-ranked Texas today in the Battle of the UTs.
Speaking of a sign of things to come, student Colby Lamb, who was selected to participate in McAfee’s Kickin’ Is Easy’ contest, nailed his second attempt for $1.5 million, with $500,000 heading to the Pat Summitt Foundation.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Peyton Manning secured the second $1.5M kick attempt and this kid NAILED IT 🚀<a href="https://x.com/PatMcAfeeShow?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PatMcAfeeShow</a> <a href="https://t.co/Zgx3FkRzJB">pic.twitter.com/Zgx3FkRzJB</a>
— College GameDay (@CollegeGameDay) <a href="https://x.com/CollegeGameDay/status/2103858728227242439?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
“You’ll never pay for another Bud Light your entire time, and every Tri Delt’s going to want your phone number,” said Vol legend to Peyton Manning to Lamb.
Now, he just needs to figure out how to spend McAfee’s money. I might have a few suggestions.

neyland-stadium-texas-tennessee-1536×864

Quick Hits: Vols’ Rude Chant For Nick Saban, Josh Heupel’s $100K Throw, A $1.5M Kick

college gameday

josh heupel

nick saban

pat mcafee

This article was written by Matt Foley and published on <a href="https://sportandstate.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sport &amp; State</a>, a new media company founded by Clay Travis that is built around sports, culture, original voices, and live conversation.
*****
President Donald Trump’s <a href="https://sportandstate.com/2026/09/23/clay-travis-president-trump-will-attend-texas-tennessee-game-at-neyland-stadium/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trip to Knoxville</a> for tomorrow’s Texas-Tennessee showdown won’t just change the tenor of your Twitter timeline.
It could actually impact the game itself.
Texas coach Steve Sarkisian revealed Thursday that the Longhorns are preparing for potential disruptions to their in-game play-calling whenever the president moves around Neyland Stadium.
“Anytime the president changes locations within the stadium, they cut all communication,” Sarkisian told reporters. “They cut your headsets in terms of coach-to-player communication. So you have to plan for that.”
Been there, done that. Sarkisian was Alabama’s offensive coordinator when Trump attended the Crimson Tide’s 46-41 loss to LSU in Tuscaloosa in 2019.
Sarkisian went on to say that Miami also experienced a loss of in-game communications as President Trump was leaving last year’s College Football Playoff National Championship.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
When President Trump is moving about at Neyland on Saturday, communications are cut off stadium-wide.
Steve Sarkisian says last year&#8217;s Miami-Indiana national championship dealt with this exact situation &#8230; late in the fourth quarter &#8230; 😯
MORE ⬇️ https://t.co/lzy3caLC7L
— OnTexasFootball (@ontexasfootball) <a href="https://x.com/ontexasfootball/status/2103223997496172967?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
Indiana coach Curt Cignetti told ESPN’s <a href="https://x.com/petethamel/status/2103254710505365517?s=46" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pete Thamel</a> that the headsets in that game went out with around 6:45 left in the fourth quarter. Miami scored with 6:37 remaining, and communications were restored before the ensuing kickoff.
The Hurricanes lost to Indiana, 27-21.
All of this means that the already tall task of communicating inside one of college football’s loudest stadiums could get even more complicated — particularly for <a href="https://sportandstate.com/2026/09/24/will-freshman-phenom-faizon-brandon-pass-his-first-test-vs-texas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tennessee freshman quarterback Faizon Brandon</a>, who has never played in an environment remotely like the one he’ll step into on Saturday.
Earlier this week, the University of Tennessee warned fans not to expect a typical game-day atmosphere. Neyland Stadium gates will open at 9 a.m. ET, three hours before kickoff, and the university is urging ticket holders to arrive “significantly earlier” than usual. Secret Service Police will conduct enhanced security screenings at every stadium gate, while additional checkpoints and verification procedures will be in place.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The University of Tennessee police department announces that Neyland Stadium gates will open at 9am ET, with President Donald Trump attending. 👇
There will be enhanced security measures at each gate by Secret Service Police
“Fans should expect increased wait times as kickoff approaches”
— Trey Wallace (@TreyWallace) <a href="https://x.com/TreyWallace/status/2102947007090307521?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
Heavy traffic is expected, with possible road closures and altered pedestrian routes. And don’t even think about trying to re-enter Neyland after your ticket is scanned.
All this noise comes on top of a scene that was already set to be college football’s wildest of the weekend.
No. 1 Texas and No. 14 Tennessee are both 3-0 and opening SEC play. Saturday is the first regular-season meeting between the two storied teams, Tennessee’s annual “Checker Neyland” game, and the program’s 30th consecutive sellout. Oh, and Arch Manning is <a href="https://sportandstate.com/2026/09/23/another-manning-wears-no-16-in-knoxville-will-arch-be-the-second-coming-of-peyton/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">facing his uncle Peyton’s alma mater</a>.
Then there’s the television circus.
Sport &amp; State is setting up Friday night for a live show at The Wagon Wheel in Knoxville. ESPN is bringing a full weekend of programming to campus, culminating with College GameDay. Peyton Manning will join Pat McAfee to help with <a href="https://sportandstate.com/2026/09/18/kicking-is-easy-and-so-is-spending-how-pat-mcafees-money-changed-students-lives/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the show’s popular student kicking contest</a>. The typical primetime broadcast team of Chris Fowler, Kirk Herbstreit, and sideline reporter Holly Rowe is set to call the game on ABC.
&nbsp;
<blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DdrH4l5xT-f/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14">
<div style="padding: 16px;">
&nbsp;
<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div>
<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div>
<div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div>
<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div>
</div>
<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div>
<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div>
<div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #F4F4F4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div>
<div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div>
</div>
&nbsp;
<p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DdrH4l5xT-f/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Wagon Wheel | Knoxville Country Bar &amp; Live Music (@wagonwheelknoxville)</a>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>
Given what we’ve learned about these logistical complications, it’s fair to wonder if the production teams will also face momentary breakdowns in communication.
ESPN does not expect any significant disruptions. A company spokesperson tells Sport &amp; State the network has handled events attended by the president before and is prepared “both from a communications standpoint and in terms of building in extra time to get our commentators and crew to where they need to be in the stadium.”
Beyond the potential blackouts, there’s also the question of how much the president will be featured in programming.
Sen. Ted Cruz’s recent GameDay appearance may serve as a test case.
Cruz joined the GameDay crew in Austin two weeks ago for a nearly 10-minute discussion about the Protect College Sports Act. The segment generated major criticism from chronically online sports media figures, but according to Puck’s John Ourand, <a href="https://sportandstate.com/2026/09/23/ted-cruz-got-booed-on-espn-but-college-gamedays-audience-didnt-flinch-amid-media-outrage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESPN’s audience held at roughly 2.13 million viewers throughout the segment</a>.
Trump attending a game is obviously a different scenario, but Saturday will serve as yet another example of the increasingly common collision between sports and politics. According to <a href="https://www.wbir.com/article/sports/college/vols/vols-football/president-trump-will-be-attending-tennessee-vs-texas-game/51-29925e08-e9b9-46f4-a820-8ab488ff9e2f" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">local reporting</a>, it will mark the first Tennessee football game attended by a sitting U.S. president.
Not that this game needed any extra juice. Just another quiet Saturday in the SEC.

trump-tennessee copy

How President Trump’s Visit Will Impact Game Day At Texas-Tennessee In Knoxville

steve sarkisian

Menu

Sport & State