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Folsom’s Top 10 Michigan High School Football Teams – Week 3, 2024

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Top 10 Michigan High School Football Teams

Every week, Brandon Folsom ranks the top 10 Michigan high school football teams from areas including Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Canton, Livonia, Novi, and more. Here’s the Week 3 update, with a reverse ranking from 1 to 10:

1. Detroit Catholic Central (3-0, 1-0 CHSL-Central; Last week: No. 1)

Detroit Catholic Central continues to hold the top spot after a commanding win against Division 4 champions, Harper Woods. The Shamrocks’ defense created turnovers that paved the way for easy offensive scores. With upcoming games against Orchard Lake St. Mary’s and Warren DeLaSalle, this powerhouse team faces a tough challenge in the Catholic League-Central.

2. Birmingham Groves (3-0, 1-0 OAA-White; Last week: No. 2)

Birmingham Groves kicked off league play in style with a 34-6 win over Rochester Hills Stoney Creek. Quarterback Ryan Counts proved he’s up to the task of replacing veteran Cayden Hardy, throwing for three touchdowns and rushing for another. With the Falcons’ stacked talent, they’re expected to go undefeated in the regular season.

3. White Lake Lakeland (2-1, 2-0 LVC; Last week: No. 6)

Lakeland bounced back strong with a 20-point win over Waterford Kettering after a tough loss in Week 2. With Walled Lake Central up next, they’re building momentum for a Week 5 showdown against LVC favorite Walled Lake Western, a team that handed them a crushing defeat last year.

4. Milford (2-1, 2-0 LVC; Last week: No. 3)

Although Milford suffered a loss to Dearborn Divine Child, there’s no reason to panic. Divine Child’s quarterback, Drew Sheridan, is one of the best young talents in the state. Milford remains a strong contender in the Lakes Valley Conference, and their eyes are set on an upset against Walled Lake Western.

5. Northville (1-2, 1-1 KLAA-West; Last week: No. 5)

Despite losing to Brighton in overtime, Northville remains ranked due to its tough early-season schedule. With a standout QB like Michael Cygan out for the season, backup Cooper Derkach will step in to lead the team as they prepare for a crucial game against Canton in Week 4.

6. Birmingham Seaholm (3-0, 2-0 OAA-Blue; Last week: No. 7)

Seaholm handled winless Bloomfield Hills with ease in Week 3. The Maples continue to dominate, and a special shoutout goes to former athletic trainer Bill Watson, who retired after the 2023-24 school year. Seaholm is positioned well in the OAA-Blue standings.

7. Livonia Franklin (1-2, 1-1 KLAA-East; Last week: No. 4)

Livonia Franklin’s season has been rocky, and losing to Dearborn by 15 points didn’t help. However, they’ll aim to bounce back against Wayne Memorial. With upcoming games against rivals Churchill and Stevenson, Franklin could still make a push for playoff points and the Livonia City championship.

8. Redford Union (2-1, 2-0 WWAC; Last week: No. 9)

Redford Union extended its WWAC winning streak to 27 games with a victory over Garden City. The Panthers are on track for a fourth straight conference title, but a crucial Week 5 matchup against Redford Thurston could decide it all.

9. Redford Thurston (3-0, 2-0 WWAC; Last week: T10)

Thurston is undefeated heading into its big Week 5 clash with Redford Union. With a 34-6 win over Melvindale, they’ve set up what could be the de facto WWAC championship game. Coach Nick Davis has turned this program around, earning respect from rival coaches.

10. Novi (2-1, 2-0 KLAA-West; Last week: Unranked)

Novi storms back into the rankings after a shaky start, following a Week 1 loss to Sterling Heights Stevenson. The Wildcats have since secured two big wins, including a 2-0 record in the KLAA-West. They face their toughest test yet in Week 4 against division favorite Brighton.

On the Bubble:

  • Garden City (2-1, 1-1 WWAC): Narrow loss to Redford Union (41-29).
  • Detroit Country Day (2-1): Bounced back with a 42-18 win over Detroit Loyola.

Out of the Rankings:

  • Detroit Country Day (2-1): Despite the Week 3 win, they dropped out of the rankings.
  • Livonia Churchill (2-1, 1-1 KLAA-East): A 65-0 loss to Belleville knocks them out.

This updated ranking provides a clearer picture of top 10 Michigan high school football teams are excelling and who faces critical games ahead. Will there be more surprises next week? Stay tuned!

William Scull vs Vladimir Shishkin Fight for Vacant IBF Title – Oct 19, 2024

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William Scull vs Vladimir Shishkin Fight for Vacant IBF Title

William Scull vs Vladimir Shishkin are set to face off for the vacant IBF super-middleweight title on October 19 at the Town Hall in Falkensee, near Berlin, Germany.

The title became available after Saul “Canelo” Alvarez relinquished it in favor of fighting Edgar Berlanga, choosing not to fulfill his mandatory defense against Scull. Scull, a 32-year-old Cuban boxer with an undefeated record of 22-0, may not be widely known but is highly skilled.

Scull started his professional career in Argentina and later joined Agon Sport in 2019. His next fight will be co-promoted by Agon Sport and Kuc Boxing. After defeating Evgeny Shvedenko in 2022, Scull earned his spot as the IBF’s mandatory challenger.

His opponent, 33-year-old Russian fighter Vladimir Shishkin, also remains undefeated with a 16-0 record. He secured his place for the title shot by defeating Jose Uzcategui in another IBF eliminator in 2022.

Meanwhile, Canelo Alvarez will defend his WBO, WBA, and WBC titles against Edgar Berlanga at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

William Scull vs Vladimir Shishkin – October 19, 2024

On October 19, 2024, William Scull vs Vladimir Shishkin will battle for the vacant IBF super-middleweight title. Both undefeated fighters are eager to claim the belt, promising an intense showdown in Falkensee, Germany. This highly anticipated bout could redefine their careers and shake up the super-middleweight division.

Mike Tyson Opens Up About Nerves Ahead of Jake Paul Fight

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Mike Tyson Talks Nerves Ahead of Jake Paul Fight

Mike Tyson, the legendary former heavyweight boxing champion, has admitted that he’s been feeling nervous about his upcoming fight against YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul. However, he’s quick to clarify that these nerves don’t mean he fears his opponent. Mike Tyson Admits Feeling Nervous Ahead of Jake Paul Fight.

Tyson, who celebrated his 58th birthday this summer, was originally scheduled to face 27-year-old Paul in July. Unfortunately, the fight had to be postponed due to Tyson suffering from an ulcer flare-up, which left him temporarily unfit to fight. The match is now set to take place in November.

This will be Tyson’s first fight since his exhibition match against Roy Jones Jr. in 2020. His last professional bout was in 2005, making this return to the ring particularly significant. Meanwhile, Jake Paul has been steadily building his reputation in the boxing world, boasting a 10-1 professional record since he began taking the sport seriously. Mike Tyson Admits Feeling Nervous Ahead of Jake Paul Fight.

During a conversation with Jake’s brother, Logan Paul, on the “Impaulsive” YouTube channel, Tyson shared his thoughts about the upcoming fight. While he acknowledges his nerves, he made it clear that he’s not underestimating Paul.

“I’m doing really well in terms of cardio, doing my sprints and all that stuff,” Tyson said. “There’s nothing out of the ordinary, just the usual nerves. But that’s about it.”

Tyson emphasized that nerves are a natural part of being an athlete. “All fighters are nervous, all athletes are nervous. I’m not going to let anyone tell me that because I’m nervous, I’m afraid. I’ve been nervous my whole career and I’ve been very successful.”

Reflecting on his past opponents who may have underestimated Jake Paul, Tyson noted the difference in his approach. “The difference between me and all the other guys that he fought is that they weren’t apprehensive or afraid of him,” he said.

“I’m just that kind of person; that’s who I am with my nerves. I don’t want to get angry or anything, and that’s why I’m scared,” Tyson added, underscoring his unique mindset as he prepares for this highly anticipated bout.

Arman Tsarukyan Suspended for Punching Fan at UFC 300

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Arman Tsarukyan Suspended for Punching Fan at UFC 300

UFC lightweight Arman Tsarukyan has been suspended and fined for punching a fan during his walkout at UFC 300 in April. Despite the suspension, Tsarukyan is still eligible to fight for a UFC title later this year.

The Nevada State Athletic Commission handed Tsarukyan (22-3) a nine-month suspension for the incident, but it will be reduced to six months if he participates in an anti-bullying public service announcement. This means Tsarukyan could be back in the octagon by October 12. Tsarukyan, who recently defeated Charles Oliveira in a No. 1 contender match at UFC 300, is expected to challenge lightweight champion Islam Makhachev in late October in Abu Dhabi. Additionally, Tsarukyan was fined $25,000.

“Arman appreciates the NSAC’s handling of this matter and looks forward to working with the UFC and NSAC on an anti-bullying PSA to reduce his suspension and compete for a UFC lightweight title before the end of the year,” said Tsarukyan’s manager, Daniel Rubenstein, in a statement.

The incident occurred when a fan made an obscene gesture at Tsarukyan, prompting him to throw a punch, which was captured live on the UFC broadcast. Tsarukyan, 27, won the fight against Oliveira by split decision and has not faced any legal repercussions for the altercation.

Michigan State & Michigan Football Schedule Updates

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Michigan State & Michigan Football Schedule Updates 2024

With the college football season just around the corner, Michigan State & Michigan Football Schedule Updates bring exciting details about game times and channels for some key matchups.

Michigan State Football Updates:

  • The Spartans’ home opener against Florida Atlantic has been moved to Friday, August 30, and will air on the Big Ten Network (BTN).
  • The following week, Michigan State will start its Big Ten schedule with a game at Maryland on September 7, kicking off at 3:30 p.m. on BTN.
  • MSU’s Week 3 home game against Prairie View A&M will also be at 3:30 p.m. on BTN on September 14.
  • Additionally, the Spartans will play two more Friday games this season:
    • October 4 at Oregon, starting at 9 p.m. on Fox
    • November 22 at home against Purdue, starting at 8 p.m. on Fox

Michigan Football Updates:

  • The Wolverines will open their season at home against Fresno State on August 31 at 7:30 p.m. on NBC.
  • On September 7, Michigan will host Texas at noon on Fox.
  • Michigan’s Week 3 game against Arkansas State is set for noon on September 14, airing on BTN.
  • The much-anticipated home game against new conference member USC will be at 3:30 p.m. on CBS on September 21.
  • The Michigan-Ohio State rivalry game will once again be broadcast on Fox, kicking off at noon on November 30.

Additional Announcements:

  • Eastern Michigan will play at Washington on September 7, with the game starting at 3:30 p.m. on BTN.
  • Western Michigan will visit Ohio State the same day, with a 7:30 p.m. kickoff.
  • Central Michigan will face Illinois at noon on September 14, and this game will be available exclusively on Peacock, NBC’s streaming service.

These Michigan State & Michigan Football Schedule Updates provide a clearer picture of what fans can expect as the season approaches.

Experience Denver’s Best Biking Streets at the Coldwell Banker Denver Century Ride

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Coldwell Banker Denver Century Ride 2024
Photo courtesy Denver Century Ride

Nearly 2,000 cyclists will take to Denver’s most bike-friendly streets, dedicated lanes, trails, and parks on Saturday, September 28, 2024, for the Coldwell Banker Denver Century Ride. Celebrating its 13th year, this legacy bike tour invites cyclists of all abilities to explore Denver on two wheels as they “cycle the city.”

Ride Details and Routes

Starting and ending at The Shops at Northfield in Central Park (8340 Northfield Boulevard, Denver, CO 80238), the Ride features four courses: 100 miles, 85 miles, 50 miles, and 25 miles. These routes highlight many of the bicycle commuter paths that connect the city and its surrounding communities. Cyclists will pass notable landmarks such as Union Station and Coors Field and traverse various city parks. Depending on their chosen distance, participants may also climb Lookout Mountain and glide along the Hogback.

The Denver Century Ride’s four courses weave through cycling lanes, roadways, and biking paths throughout the city, offering options for a casual ride, a daily commute, or a challenging workout.

Unique Challenges and Support

“What makes the Denver Century Ride so unique is its complexity,” explained Ride Director Sabra Nagel. “Organizing a ride in an urban area like Denver and its surrounding municipalities requires a lot of cooperation and support from all the entities involved. The Cities of Denver and Lakewood have graciously allowed us to use their parks and multi-use trails, making this event special.”

The Denver Police Department supports the ride with more than 50 officers ensuring the first 16 miles are as smooth as possible. Additional assistance comes from the Colorado State Patrol, City of Golden PD, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Town of Morrison PD, Littleton PD, and Cherry Hills Village PD, making sure the ride is safe and well-coordinated throughout.

This is a fully supported ride with aid stations, course marshals, and bike mechanics from Epic Mountain Gear. Cyclists of all experience levels and abilities will have access to meals and nutritional supplements to keep them fueled.

Post-Ride Celebration and Community Impact

After the ride, participants and their families can enjoy Denver’s best post-ride celebration at the Breckenridge Brewery Post Ride Street Party at The Shops at Northfield Stapleton. The celebration will feature frosty beers, fantastic food options, and a lifestyle expo, providing a perfect end to a day of cycling.

The Coldwell Banker Denver Century Ride is a Champion Partner of Bicycle Colorado, having contributed over $100,000 to the state’s leading cycling advocacy organization. “This partnership helps us ensure that everyone who wants to ride a bike has access to safe cycling,” said Pete Piccolo, Executive Director of Bicycle Colorado.

Last year, the ride directly contributed $25,000 to local charitable organizations, including Bicycle Colorado. Additionally, the 2023 Charitable Partners Program generated more than $200,000 in fundraising pledges and donations for various nonprofit causes.

Join the Coldwell Banker Denver Century Ride to experience the best of Denver on two wheels, and be part of a community event that supports safe cycling and local charities.

UFC 302: Makhachev vs. Poirier – Lightweight Championship Clash

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UFC 302: Makhachev vs. Poirier

Just over a month ago, fans were treated to an electrifying night of mixed martial arts, marking one of the sport’s most memorable events. Now, as we gear up for UFC 302 Makhachev vs. Poirier, the excitement continues, albeit with a tough act to follow.

UFC 302, taking place this Saturday in Newark, New Jersey (ESPN+ PPV, 10 p.m. ET), may not be as stacked from top to bottom as April’s milestone event, but the headline attraction is as good as it gets. The pound-for-pound king, Islam Makhachev, will defend his lightweight championship against longtime luminary Dustin Poirier. This fight needs no added selling points, but there’s a special twist: Poirier, at age 35, is likely making his final bid for gold.

Main Event: Lightweight Championship

Islam Makhachev (25-1) will defend his lightweight championship against Dustin Poirier (30-8, 1 NC). Makhachev’s reign has been anything but easy. His first title defense was against Alexander Volkanovski, the consensus No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter at the time. Their February 2023 superfight was tightly contested, and Makhachev’s victory catapulted him to the P4P peak. Eight months later, in a rematch, he solidified his status by knocking out Volkanovski in the first round.

Now, Makhachev, winner of 13 fights in a row, will face someone his own size. Poirier, fully appreciative of this precious opportunity, has been here before. In 2019, he challenged Khabib Nurmagomedov, Makhachev’s longtime friend and training partner, for the lightweight belt and lost by submission. Two years later, Poirier was tapped out by Charles Oliveira in another title attempt. Despite these setbacks, Poirier earned his shot by defeating rising young contender Benoît Saint Denis in March with a knockout.

Poirier hasn’t explicitly said this is his final fight, but he has questioned whether he’d have the will to build another championship run if he falls short this time. If he succeeds on Saturday, he might take his belt and go home—for good. Poirier will leave behind a memorable legacy, not defined by his two failed title shots, but by his interim belt win in 2019 and victories over several UFC champions: Anthony Pettis, Eddie Alvarez, Max Holloway, and Conor McGregor twice. Poirier has already done himself and his sport proud, but Saturday could be a glorious culmination.

Intriguing Undercard

While UFC 302 doesn’t boast wall-to-wall star power, there’s plenty of intrigue throughout the fight lineup. Fans can expect exciting matchups and emerging talent eager to make their mark.

Catch all the action and see if Poirier can secure his legacy or if Makhachev will continue his dominant reign. Tune in to UFC 302 Makhachev vs. Poirier this Saturday to witness these storylines unfold.

Boston Celtics Near Record 18th NBA Championship Title

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Boston Celtics NBA championship

The Boston Celtics are just four wins away from their 18th NBA championship, which would break their tie with the Los Angeles Lakers for the most titles in league history. Here’s a look at their journey and what’s at stake.

A Long-Awaited Return to the Finals

The Celtics have reached the NBA Finals for the first time since their 2022 loss to the Golden State Warriors. They are aiming for their first title since 2008, marking the second-longest stretch in team history without a championship, surpassed only by the period between 1987 and 2007.

Dominating the Eastern Conference

Boston’s strong performance in the Eastern Conference playoffs has been key to their success. They eliminated Miami in five games, Cleveland in five games, and Indiana in four games, finishing off the Pacers with a 105-102 victory in Game 4 on Monday. Despite close contests, Boston’s offense and defense proved too powerful in the final moments.

Standout Players and Team Effort

Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum have been outstanding, while Derrick White and Jrue Holiday form the best two-way backcourt in the league. Al Horford, starting for the injured Kristaps Porzingis, has provided experience and reliability. The Celtics are 12-2 in the postseason, winning seven consecutive games and 11 of 12 in the playoffs, despite a few hiccups along the way.

High Expectations

As the No. 1 seed in the East with a league-best 64 victories, the Celtics were expected to reach this position. However, simply making it to the Finals isn’t enough. “I don’t know if celebrate is the right word,” Derrick White said after eliminating the Pacers. For this team, winning the East is just a step.

Committed Ownership and Management

Wyc Grousbeck and Steve Pagliuca, leading the Celtics’ ownership group, commit to contending. They have given president of basketball operations Brad Stevens the resources to build a championship-caliber team. Stevens has assembled a squad that finished with the NBA’s best regular-season record at 64-18 and boasts the league’s best starting five when Kristaps Porzingis is healthy.

Star Performers

Jayson Tatum made All-NBA this season, Jaylen Brown was named Eastern Conference finals MVP, and both Holiday and White were All-Defensive selections this season. Anything short of a championship will be a disappointment for this talented team.

The Road Ahead

The Celtics will face either the Dallas Mavericks or Minnesota Timberwolves in the Finals, with the Mavericks being the likely opponent given their 3-0 series lead. Since drafting Brown in 2016 and Tatum in 2017, the Celtics have reached the conference finals six times. They’ve faced various challenges, including strong opponents and coaching changes, but this year’s team is their best and most talented in the past eight seasons.

The Final Push

“Our mindset is very clear,” Al Horford said. “We need to finish.” The Celtics’ focus is on winning the championship and making history. With four more wins, they can achieve their goal and secure their place as the most successful team in NBA history. The Boston Celtics are just four wins away from their 18th NBA championship, poised to break the record for most titles in league history.

Señor Buscador Eyes San Diego Handicap Return in July

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Señor Buscador Eyes San Diego Handicap Return in July

Señor Buscador, who recently finished third in the prestigious Group 1 Dubai World Cup on March 30, is back in training and might make his comeback in the Grade 2 San Diego Handicap on July 27.

Trainer Todd Fincher confirmed to Horse Racing Nation that Señor Buscador is back in training and “possibly will be ready for the San Diego.” This potential race has also been mentioned by Steve Andersen of Daily Racing Form, who noted future goals for Señor Buscador, including the Pacific Classic (G1), California Crown (G1), and Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1). The California Crown, previously called the Awesome Again, is a 1 1/8-mile race at Santa Anita.

Señor Buscador, a 6-year-old son of Mineshaft and Rose’s Desert, has accumulated an impressive $12,696,427 in earnings over his career, with a record of 19 starts, 7 wins, 2 seconds, and 3 thirds. Most of his earnings have come this year following a second-place finish in the Pegasus World Cup (G1), a victory in the Saudi Cup (G1), and his third place in the Dubai World Cup. The Saudi Cup was his first win at the top level, adding to his two other graded-stakes wins and three other graded placings.

Ryan Garcia Threatens to Quit Boxing After Positive Tests

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Ryan Garcia Threatens to Quit Boxing After Positive Tests

Ryan Garcia’s B samples, collected before his win over Devin Haney, have reportedly tested positive for banned PEDs, according to boxing writer Dan Rafael. This news has sparked the headline Ryan Garcia threatens to quit boxing after positive tests,” highlighting the significant impact of these findings.

“Ryan Garcia’s B sample results were returned Thursday morning, a day after being opened,” Rafael reported on X. “I have the lab reports, and as expected, the B samples matched the A samples — both are positive for the banned PED Ostarine related to VADA tests taken the day before and after the Haney fight.”

Garcia defeated Haney on April 20 via majority decision, a surprising upset that came after Garcia missed weight by 3.2 pounds amid concerns about his mental state. On May 1, his samples submitted to the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association reportedly tested positive for Ostarine, a banned substance. Now, his B samples have also tested positive for Ostarine.

Garcia, who has strongly maintained his innocence since the first positive tests, expressed his frustration and feelings about the B sample results on X.

“Let’s go we positive. Positive vibes bruh. Yess so happy,” Garcia wrote (via MMA Mania) in posts that have since been deleted. “I F***ING LOVE STEROIDS. I don’t care I’ll never make money again with boxing. Your loss not mine for setting me up lol joke’s on y’all. I will swallow all steroids.”

Garcia’s lawyers issued a statement soon after his posts were removed.

“Ryan Garcia is committed to clean and fair competition and has never intentionally used any banned substance. Soon after being notified of his positive test, Ryan voluntarily had his hair collected and shipped to Dr. Pascal Kintz, the foremost expert in toxicology and hair-sample analysis. The results of Ryan’s hair sample came back negative. This is consistent with contamination and demonstrably proves that Ryan had not ingested Ostarine over a period of time — the only way he would have had any advantage whatsoever in the ring.

“Ryan has voluntarily submitted to tests throughout his career, which have always shown negative results. He also tested negative multiple times leading up to the fight against Haney. All of those factors, combined with his ultra-low levels from samples taken on April 19 and 20 (in the billionth of a gram range), point to Ryan being a victim of supplement contamination and never receiving any performance enhancing benefit from the microscopic amounts in his system. We are certain that one of the natural supplements Ryan was using in the lead up to the fight will prove to be contaminated and are in the process of testing the supplements to determine the exact source.”

Final Words

The controversy surrounding Ryan Garcia threatens to quit boxing after positive tests underscores the impact of these allegations. As Garcia continues to fight for his innocence, the boxing world watches closely to see how this unfolds.