Category: Sports Daily

Ahead of the MLB trade deadline, one team made a blockbuster trade in what’s considered to be one of the biggest deadline deals in recent memory.

That team wasn’t the Phillies. Instead, it was a team the Phils will most likely have to get through in the postseason.

The Dodgers landing two-time reigning AL Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal from the Tigers for three minor league prospects, puts Dave Dombrowski in a tough spot.

The Phillies couldn’t put together a package to compete for Skubal, but Dombrowski also has multiple holes to fill and few high-level prospects to cash in with.

The Dodgers traded for Skubal because they could, and it’s blunted the one competitive advantage the Phillies might have against them in a series, writes David Murphy.

However, there’s still time. Dombrowski has till 6 p.m. tonight to fill needs in the lineup and pitching staff. On the eve of the deadline last year, the Phillies completed a massive trade for star closer Jhoan Duran during a rain delay.

After a rain-shortened victory over the Orioles on Sunday, Bryan De La Cruz gave the Phillies something to think about.

— Isabella DiAmore, @phillysport, sports.daily@inquirer.com.

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❓What moves do you hope to see the Phillies make today? Email us back for a chance to be featured in the newsletter.

Safety competition

Through three days of camp, the battle for the starting safety job has been as intense as advertised. With Cooper DeJean expected to spend a lot of time as the Eagles nickel cornerback, the second safety spot in those formations remains an “open competition.”

As of now, Marcus Epps has been getting the majority of first-team reps, while Michael Carter II has taken a few, too. Jeff Neiburg predicts those two, along with Drew Mukuba and Cole Wisniewski, to make the Eagles’ 53-man roster in the latest roster projection.

Also, Landon Dickerson shared on Saturday that he believed his return to action last year following meniscus surgery was premature. That mistake, in addition to his lengthy injury history, will factor into how he will approach playing through future ailments.

If you missed Jeff McLane’s observations from Day 3 of training camp — where Jalen Hurts frequently targeted Makai Lemon — let’s get you up to speed.

What we’re…

🎉 Celebrating: Mo’ne Davis had a crowd of family, fans, and supporters watch her back home compete in the WPBL’s inaugural game.

🏈 Learning: After the federal courts granted athletes the right to a fifth season, it seems that Villanova quarterback Pat McQuaide will be back.

⚽ Seeing: Rob Mac and Wrexham fans took over Subaru Park on Sunday for a preseason friendly against Sunderland.

🤔 Wondering: How the Union completed an improbable three-goal comeback win over Atlanta United on Saturday.

Roster shakeup

To this point, the Sixers’ offseason has been mostly focused on the Sixers’ star-studded lineup of LeBron James, Jaylen Brown, Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid, and VJ Edgecombe. But what about Dean Wade, Anfernee Simons, and more?

DeAntae Prince takes a closer look at how things will change for the Sixers’ new additions and returning role players since James’ signing.

Changed his life

Will Yip, a Northeast Philly native, works with some of the biggest acts in rock.

But a record producer does not clock out. When he arrives at Memory Music Studios — at Swanson and Wolf Streets — each morning, he does not leave until late at night. So Yip will put the Phillies on the TV in the lobby.

Yip says a game is the reward at the end of a day, and it’s his fandom that helped the 39-year-old win a Grammy earlier this year.

Taking the big stage

Reese D’Ariano, at 17 years old, will compete at the FIH Hockey World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands from Aug. 14-30. The West Chester native is the youngest player to make the U.S. women’s national team roster for the World Cup.

While her first stint with USA field hockey came at age 12, this marks her biggest stage with the national team, and she’s looking to contribute.

Mike Sielski’s take

Jalen Carter said something very sweet and very incorrect during a news conference last Wednesday. He nodded toward the media members gathered in front of him and said: “You guys put out some good information, some good facts about me, stuff like that. We’re all one family.” No, we’re not, writes Mike Sielski.

We compiled today’s newsletter using reporting from Scott Lauber, David Murphy, Mike Sielski, DeAntae Prince, Jeff Neiburg, Jeff McLane, Olivia Reiner, Ryan Novozinsky, Jonathan Tannenwald, Matt Breen, Ariel Simpson, Conor Smith, Becca O’Reilly, and Mia Messina.

By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

Thanks for getting your Monday started with me. Hope you had a restful weekend. We’ll be back in your inbox tomorrow. — Bella

We’re one week in from the news that LeBron James is coming to Philadelphia, two days of Eagles training camp in the books, and a few days away from Monday’s MLB trade deadline.

That means we’ll continue to ponder how each of these teams will look in the coming weeks.

Maybe the Phillies will have addressed their need for a fifth starter or secured a right-handed hitting outfielder. (Or get help from their stars, more on that below.)

We’ll also begin to see how the Eagles’ offensive scheme works under coordinator Sean Mannion and the depth chart on defense. One area of clarity is Jihaad Campbell’s role. Now healthy, the former first-rounder looks poised to take a leap in his second year as an Eagle. Jeff Neiburg tells us why.

For the Sixers, there are still two months to go until we’ll see how this star-studded group meshes together. What we do know is that this is now a team with legitimate championship aspirations.

However, it’s going to take a lot more than individual talent to win. Gina Mizell analyzes what the Sixers will need from each of their five starters to get there.

— Isabella DiAmore, @phillysport, sports.daily@inquirer.com.

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State of the defense

Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio noted on Thursday that it “remains to be seen” if star pass rusher Jonathan Greenard will return to the practice field before Week 1 against the Washington Commanders. Still, Fangio didn’t express too much concern over Greenard’s absence from practice.

“He’s a veteran player, so he knows the league, knows how to play,” Fangio said. “But we’re going to be asking him to do some different things that he hadn’t had to do in his career, and that’s really what he’s going to be missing with this time off. He’s going to miss a good bit of camp.”

Fangio also spoke about the rest of the defense, including the battle for a starting safety job and Zack Baun winning “green dot” honors.

What we’re…

🔍 Observing: How did Day 2 of Eagles training camp shake out? Don’t worry, Jeff McLane has you covered.

🏀 Reading: If you’re following the LeBron James train to Philly, here’s the ultimate Sixers fan guide you’ll want to know.

📱Learning: About a La Salle rower who created an app that’s changing the way athletes train — and the future of rowing.

🤔 Wondering: What has Isabeau Levito been working on? Ellen Dunkel caught up with the South Jersey figure skater to find out.

Need help from stars too

Nine losses in 12 games over a span of 14 days have an effect on people, especially when the trade deadline is bearing down.

It caused Bryce Harper to channel John Lennon.

“I think we need some help,” Harper told reporters in Miami — and that was before the Phillies gagged a 6-0 lead into an 8-6 loss Wednesday, the worst gut punch at the worst time.

Harper isn’t wrong, but no matter what Dave Dombrowski does before 6 p.m. Monday, Harper’s plea for help must extend to his teammates, too. Because although he’s right about the need for reinforcements, it’s really the stars — three hitters, in particular — that must shine brighter.

Next: The Phillies open a series tonight in Baltimore at 7:05 p.m (NBCSP).

Mastering the trick shot

Bucks County native Steve Markle first became interested in pool at 13 years old, when he and his friends started making trick shot videos and posting them on YouTube.

Now Markle, 34, is a professional artistic pool player who’s ranked No. 1 in the United States. His trick-shot videos on social media have amassed more than 175 million views. He’s recently helped organize the WPA World Artistic Pool & WPA World Freestyle Artistic Pool championships, the biggest professional pool trick shot event in the world, coming to the area in October.

He’s done all this while serving as a police officer for the Lower Makefield Township Police Department. Get to know Markle and his craft.

Cups of Coffee

We’re starting a new series — inspired by Pro Football Reference’s “Cups of Coffee” database — where The Inquirer has identified more than two-dozen living players who appeared in just one NFL game and played that game as an Eagle.

In our first story, Ethan Kopelman caught up with Marty Horn, a former star quarterback at Lehigh.

Marcus Hayes’ take

LeBron James chose a franchise that hasn’t won an NBA title in 43 years, has only one title in almost 60 years, and hasn’t advanced past the second round of the playoffs in 25 years. James chose the underdog city — home of “insufferable winners” — just like Bryce Harper, Pete Rose, and Saquon Barkley did, writes Marcus Hayes.

What you’re saying about the Phillies

We asked: While there’s plenty of reason to hope regarding the Sixers and Eagles, is it time to panic about the Phillies? Among your responses:

Its past time to panic about the Phillies. Anyone who watches the team on a regular basis knew by the end of May that the bullpen was not major league caliber. With the exception of Duran the bullpen is pedestrian at best and its absolutely shocking when they get out of a jam without giving up a run or two or six. And please don’t torture us fans with having to watch Alvarado anymore. He’s almost as bad as Jordan Romano was last year. I think it’s pretty obvious Middleton tightened the purse strings this year when he let Ranger and Bader leave and the free agents they brought in were pretty much found on the clearance rack. Lifetime .220 batting averages tell you exactly what to expect but the Phillies sign them anyway looking for a rebound. The organization took a chance and the results are what we’re witnessing on a pretty much nightly basis. — Bob A.

Yeah I’m worried. When they get decent pitching, they can’t hit. When they get decent hitting they can’t pitch and field in general like AA. — Bill M.

Panic should have set in after game 6 on October 23, 2023 when we only scored 1 run. Major panic had to be after game 7 on Oct. 24, 2023. Scored a whopping 2 runs as they blew a chance to the World Series. Home field advantage. Bats went dead as they did in 2024 & 2025 post season. Why panic now? Same dead bats! Same guy who pays for the dead bats! They should have blown it up in 2024. All the Phillies have to do is look across the street. Make a change at the top and in less than 60 days on the job we can’t wait for the 76ers opening game. AND “Go Birds” Maybe Howie would be interested in a summer job to turn it around. — Ronald R.

It is indeed time to panic regarding the Phillies. Poor general management, poor farm system, poor judgement by those who manage the draft. Phillies passed on drafting Aaron Judge. Where are the Dominican players who are shown every morning as hitting the hardest and longest home runs etc? How did Murakami, the player the Phillies most needed, end up with the White Sox? Don’t expect the trade deadline to save us, we really have not much to trade with. Mattingly’s magic can only go so far, Phillies need hitters and pitchers asap. — Everett S.

Yes, it’s time to panic. Their starting pitching lacks depth, their offense is inconsistent, and their bullpen is a shambles. Could they get hot and win a series or two in the playoffs (assuming they make it)? Of course. Will they? Not likely. One telling stat. is run differential. In 2025, they were +132. So far this year: -15. — Doug R.

We compiled today’s newsletter using reporting from Marcus Hayes, Gina Mizell, Scott Lauber, Mia Messina, Jeff McLane, Olivia Reiner, Jeff Neiburg, Conor Smith, Ellen Dunkel, Ethan Kopleman, and Lauren Jones.

By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

Thanks for closing out the week with me. Have a wonderful weekend. I’ll be back in your inbox on Monday. — Bella

It’s happening, y’all!

What surely feels like Christmas morning for many in Philly and beyond dawned on Wednesday as the Eagles took the field for the first training camp practices of the 2026 season — and, for Jalen Carter, with a nice pay raise.

So what did our writers see?

In short: plenty.

Plenty of Birds on the field (they’re healthy). Plenty of positional battles (especially on defense). Plenty of new concepts (on offense). And if you want the in-depth version of Wednesday’s key observations, Jeff McLane has you covered.

— Maria McIlwain, @phillysport, sports.daily@inquirer.com.

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❓While there’s plenty of reason to hope regarding the Sixers and Eagles, is it time to panic about the Phillies? Email us back for a chance to be featured in the newsletter.

Birds in flight

Part of Nick Sirianni’s opening message to the team stuck out to quarterback Jalen Hurts. He wrote it down in his notebook, and it underscores his mentality as a new season begins.

“100% alignment and zero entitlement,” he said Wednesday as the first practices of training camp began.

So what does that look like, as Hurts embraces his role as a veteran and helps his new teammates get acquainted with the Eagles?

And while there isn’t a Duolingo course for Sean Mannion’s offense, but Barkley is enjoying the challenge of “learning a new language” as the Birds install the offense.

Next: The fun continues today at the Jefferson Health Training Complex.

Dog day doldrums

Bryce Harper’s candid comments about the Phillies’ needs ahead of the trade deadline certainly raised eyebrows on Tuesday night.

Before Wednesday’s series finale vs. the Miami Marlins, interim manager Don Mattingly responded to his star first baseman, saying, “… players like being GMs and making calls and spending other people’s money, so just let it go at that.”

And the Phillies’ on-field misfortune continued Wednesday, as they blew a six-run lead en route to an 8-6 loss to the Marlins.

Next: After an off day Thursday, the Phillies’ road trip continues with a weekend series in Baltimore. The Orioles’ Brandon Young (8-2, 3.13) will start on Friday (7:05 p.m., NBCSP) against a Phillies starter to be determined.

Max(ey) effort

OK, so what was the deal with that asterisk by Tyrese Maxey’s name on the now-infamous white board? Turns out the Sixers point guard had a notable role in helping bring LeBron James to Philly.

Rich Paul, who’s James’ and Maxey’s agent, offered a glimpse into the decision process that brought the all-time great to the Sixers. He also hinted at James playing beyond that two-year deal, too.

James jersey sales broke a record, according to Fanatics, and with him officially now in the fold, how do the Sixers stack up within the hierarchy of the Eastern Conference?

‘Opening doors’ in lacrosse

The Philly area is a hotbed for women’s lacrosse. Of the Women’s Lacrosse League’s four teams — the Maryland Charm, California Palms, New York Charging, and Boston Guard — 18 players and two coaches have ties to the region.

“I think it’s just super crazy growing up in the area,” said Katie Detwiler, a California Palms defender who’s from Devon. “When we were growing up, we didn’t have any of this. We played in college, and then it was on to the real world. So I think it’s really good for them to see what could be possible someday. It’s awesome to see.”

And on Wednesday, Mayor Cherelle L. Parker, the WLL, and local lacrosse players came together to celebrate the league making history in the area when it plays its inaugural championship game in the area next month.

Next: The inaugural WLL championship is coming to Subaru Park in Chester on Aug. 15 (5 p.m., ESPN).

Sports snapshot

• Back in the saddle: Joe Girardi will get a chance to manage again in Philly on Aug. 16.
• Around the ice: We take a look at what the Flyers have been up to lately.
• Moving on: Two Union players are set to depart as the team’s summer overhaul begins.

On this date

On this day 31 years ago, two of the Phillies’ all-time greats were enshrined among baseball’s best as Mike Schmidt and Richie Ashburn were inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, N.Y.

An article by the Hall of Fame estimated that 40,000 came out to see Schmidt, a 12-time All-Star and six-time Silver Slugger winner, and Ashburn, who hit .308 over his career. Which Phillies might be next?

Standings, stats, and more

It’s a bit early for scoreboard watching, but the Phillies’ hold on a wild-card spot has gotten precarious. They’re tied with the Diamondbacks for the final two spots, and the Marlins, Pirates, Nationals, and Padres just two games behind them.

Here’s a place to access your favorite Philadelphia teams’ statistics, schedules, and standings in real time.

Mike Sielski’s take

After Jalen Carter signed his lucrative extension, he met with the media flanked by two important people: security chief Dom (DiSandro) and his mom. Dom and Mom has a nice ring to it. They’re also the two people who’ll be most instrumental in making sure the Eagles get their money’s worth from the 25-year-old defensive tackle.

Sure, he’s talented. But, as Mike Sielski writes, the Eagles are taking on a bit of risk here in signing Carter to this extension.

What you’re saying about the Birds

We asked: Which Eagles player is destined for a big year?

#33 is going to have an incredible year. Cooper DeJean 2026 Defensive Player of the Year. — Ronald R.

Jalen Hurts is destined for a big year. Rid of complaining AJ Brown, Jalen will have time and support to learn Sean Manion’s playbook without the pressure to cater to a diva receiver. — Bob C.

I think Jalen Carter will have a great year as he works extra hard to prove that he is worth that $152 million. Unless he is injured I think he will have an outstanding year. You always have to be wary of these long time extensions due to memories of Carson Wentz and Russel Wilson, [Deshaun] Watson, Jay Cutler and others, but I don’t think Carter will ever fail like any those players. — Everett S.

We compiled today’s newsletter using reporting from Jeff McLane, Olivia Reiner, Jeff Neiburg, Ryan Novozinsky, Lochlahn March, Gabriela Carroll, Gina Mizell, Ariel Simpson, Matt Breen, Becca O’Reilly, Mike Sielski, and Jonathan Tannenwald.

By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

Thanks for reading along! Bella will be back in your inboxes tomorrow morning to close out the week. — Maria

Before hitting the field today for training camp, the Eagles decided to lock in a new contract with their star defensive tackle.

Jalen Carter agreed to a four-year extension on Tuesday worth $152 million, with $106 million guaranteed. The $38 million average annual value makes the 25-year-old the highest-paid defensive tackle in league history.

By extending him now, the Eagles are preventing Carter, who was heading into the fourth year of his rookie deal, from testing the market as a free agent anytime soon — smart move.

Now, with one of the major long-term roster mysteries behind us, let’s look at some potential positional battles as training camp gets underway.

The backup quarterback seems to be unclear, and while we know DeVonta Smith is WR1, who will be behind him on the dept chart? Plus, there could be some competition in the secondary.

Most of the starting jobs are spoken for, but this training camp still has its share of roster spots to fight for. Jeff Neiburg takes a closer look at six of them.

— Isabella DiAmore, @phillysport, sports.daily@inquirer.com.

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❓Which Eagles player is destined for a big year? Email us back for a chance to be featured in the newsletter.

The magic in Year 2

It almost seems fitting that LeBron James signed a two-year contract with the Sixers. He’s coming to Philly with the intention to win an NBA championship, and at his three previous stops, he’s reached the NBA mountaintop in that second season.

There’s some athletes — like James — whose arrival to the city has stunned us all simply by coming here. Matt Breen compiled a list of 10 players who made you stop in your tracks and feel like you won a championship.

This street artist certainly felt that way after finding out that James would end his NBA career here. He then got to work.

In other news, the Sixers are trading Johni Broome and a second-round pick to the Clippers to officially sign veteran wing Kentavious Caldwell-Pope.

What we’re …

🏈 Learning: Matt Campbell addressed several questions as he prepares for his first season at Penn State.

🤔 Wondering: Why Doug Pederson is joining CBS to call 10 college football games while still hoping to return to the NFL.

🎉 Celebrating: HBCU football will return to Lincoln Financial Field with a pair of games on Oct. 30 and Oct. 31.

📖 Reading: About this Delco man who sunburned LeBron James’ jersey on his back, calling it an act of “Philly toughness.”

Lefty reliever needs

If the Phillies are going to win a World Series, they’ll likely have to go through the Dodgers. And Los Angeles gets considerably more production from the left side of the plate than the right.

While the Phillies have star power in lefty starters Cristopher Sánchez and Jesús Luzardo, their best lefty reliever is José Alvarado, who entered Tuesday with a 6.00 ERA despite allowing only one run in his last seven appearances.

To keep it short, the Phillies need to find a lefty reliever at the trade deadline.

After another loss on Tuesday, Bryce Harper was candid about how he views the team ahead of Monday’s deadline.

Before Tuesday’s game against the Marlins, Kyle Schwarber was out of lineup with an illness. Interim manager Don Mattingly also spoke about Zack Wheeler, who lasted just three innings on Monday.

David Murphy’s take

On a recent podcast, Draymond Green said, “If I’m VJ Edgecombe’s agent, I’m not sure I’m happy with the summer that the 76ers have had. Like, you go from being sometimes the second option when Embiid was out to sometimes being the fifth option. It’s a big, big difference.”

Sure, it could be a drawback if Edgecombe always gets last dibs on spots. I’m just not sure I agree with Green that LeBron James compounds the potential issue. I actually think he could prove to be a Godsend for Edgecombe, writes David Murphy.

What you’re saying about LeBron James’ commute

We asked: Would you have an issue if LeBron commuted from New York to Philly and didn’t live in the area full-time? Among your responses:

Yes. If it was good enough for Ben Franklin and Rocky, it’s good enough for LeBron. — Tom O.

No problem at all. He can live wherever he wants. — Richard V.

Why not?? Seems pretty inconvenient and helicopters do get grounded for weather — Bill M.

Location is immaterial. What matters is his play and does he help fulfill the dream of an NBA championship for the city. Frankly, many players of all our teams don’t reside in the city proper. NJ and the Philadelphia suburbs are choices for many of our athletes. I don’t live in the city yet I am a loyal fan. Enough said. — Gary G.

It’s not just flying in on game day. It’s flying in most everyday for practice and game days. Most games are in the evenings. Usually over 10-10:30. Post game interviews, showers, etc. You’re in the chopper by midnight and home by 1 a.m. That routine will get old real quick. Plus there’s always Kobe to think about. Wind up with an inexperienced pilot and poof. There are some knocked out gorgeous estates in South Jersey as well as the Philly suburbs. — Ronald R.

Laughing. Of course not. As long as LeBron plays basketball at a level that meets what he is being paid I could care less where he lives. Hey, I am a Philly sports fan and Sports Daily fan and I live 2300 miles away in Prescott AZ. — Everett S.

We compiled today’s newsletter using reporting from Jeff Neiburg, Olivia Reiner, David Murphy, Gina Mizell, Matt Breen, Gabriela Carroll, Alex Coffey, Scott Lauber, Lochlahn March, Devin Jackson, Lauren Jones, and Conor Smith.

By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

As always, thanks for reading. Hope you have yourself a wonderful Wednesday and stay dry. We’ll be back in your inbox tomorrow. — Bella

It’s almost that time, Philly. NFL training camp is here.

Starting on Tuesday, the Eagles will report to Jefferson Health Training Complex, with several looming questions awaiting them: How will the offense look under Sean Mannion? Will they be able to replace the production of A.J. Brown? What can we expect the defense to look like after the departure of key players?

Those won’t be answered right away and might not be revealed until Week 1 or even Week 2 of the season. However, there’s still much anticipation heading into training camp — this is the Birds we’re talking about.

There’s also a level of expectation for a team that took a step back in 2025, following an early playoff exit. Nick Sirianni is aware of this. But football is all about adaptation.

Switching to the team on the other side of Pattison Ave., it looks like the Phillies should follow a similar mindset after losing two of three to the Dodgers. Throughout those three games, they couldn’t escape baserunning blunders, defensive miscues, and a bullpen implosion.

Change is needed. If that doesn’t happen, there’s a question to raise of whether this team will make the postseason. Perhaps the trade deadline will help address their biggest needs?

— Isabella DiAmore, @phillysport, sports.daily@inquirer.com.

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Welcome to the majors

As Alex McFarlane warmed up for his major league debut on Wednesday, the 25-year-old didn’t realize where the Dodgers were in their order.

“It turned out to be that lefty,” as in four-time MVP Shohei Ohtani. Any left-handed batter would be a challenging first at-bat for the rookie righty, but the two-way Dodgers superstar, with a .940 OPS against right-handers, was a different beast.

What we’re…

⚾ Cherishing: The friendship of two longtime baseball coaches who spent decades in the Catholic League.

👕 Learning: St. Joseph’s became the first college in Pennsylvania to publicly announce a jersey patch sponsor for the upcoming year.

👏 Applauding: North Philly’s Kahleah Copper is heading to the WNBA All-Star Game as a replacement selection.

🤔 Wondering: Why Jaylen Brown was spotted in the Dominican Republic playing baseball?

Seventh-round success?

Keyshawn James-Newby was a 2026 seventh-round pick who is considered undersized for an edge rusher at 6-foot-1 and 240 pounds. However, he makes up for it with speed and bend.

His path to making the roster is a difficult one considering the state of the depth chart ahead of him. But he’s doing all he can to make a lasting impression and become the NFL’s next seventh-round success story.

Stole the show

Neil Pierre, the Union’s prized centerback prospect, played 34 minutes as a second-half substitute in the club’s 3-1 win over Red Bull New York on Wednesday night, and showed he’s ready for the big leagues.

It was only his second game with the first team, but he looked like a pro. So what’s next for Pierre and the Union? Well, besides welcoming Seattle to Subaru Park on Saturday (7:30 p.m., Apple TV), Inquirer writer Jonathan Tannenwald takes a look.

Beyond the faceoff

Delco’s Andrew McMeekin is a faceoff man who recently won a national championship with Princeton. After going undrafted in the Premier Lacrosse League, McMeekin has been making a name for himself with the Boston Cannons.

He ranks third in the league in faceoff percentage and scored his first professional goal on July 11. The Episcopal Academy graduate says his success comes from being a student of the game first and faceoff specialist second.

Mike Sielski’s take…

The Flyers’ schedule came out last week, and I did not scan it immediately for games against the Penguins and Rangers and Capitals. My eyes fell on two dates: Saturday, Oct. 24, and Sunday, Jan. 3. A pair of matchups against the Flyers’ newest and most hated rivals: the … Anaheim Ducks?

What you’re saying about Jalen Hurts

We asked: Do you think Jalen Hurts is a Top 10 NFL quarterback? Among your responses:

Hurts is a solid quarterback with solid, if not flashy, skills in all categories. The Eagles are built to be consistent, and he has led with a consistent presence despite a total lack of consistency at the offensive coordinator position. He fits perfectly with a solid running game around him. — Dale O.

Yes, I do. Tough times last season, but the guy was again playing with a new coach and system, with a disgruntled me-me-me receiver and an aging and much-injured offensive line that was no longer able to spring Saquon loose multiple times per game to take the pressure off of him. One ranking had him way, way down the list and another had him as a tier two QB along with Mahones and others. Last season, the coaches grossly underused DeVonta Smith, one of the surest targets in the NFL. Jalen has performed admirably in two Super Bowls and can do it again. — Everett S.

Jalen Hurts is a top 10 quarterback. The others mentioned have either not been to the Super Bowl or haven’t finished high in the playoffs. While I agree that all teams need to have an array of talent, Jalen Hurts has the right attitude and doesn’t let the media or fans get in his head. Plus, he has talent! Trust me, he will use this slight to kick ass in the 2026-27 season. Go Birds! — Joanne H.

No. Despite winning a Super Bowl MVP, that award could have easily been given to the defense! Jalen doesn’t have a history of leading the team from behind in the 4th quarter. He has been reluctant to throw down the middle, settling for low-risk slants. Clearly not in the Joe Burrow, Josh Allen, Patrick Mahomes, Matt Stafford conversation. — Bob C.

Please. Dak Prescott? Over the hill. Caleb Williams? Promise but no proof. Same with Drake Maye. I really wish I knew why Jalen does not get the respect he deserves. The proof is in his record. Whoever drew up this list is way off the mark. — Cathy J.

We compiled today’s newsletter using reporting from Mike Sielski, Jonathan Tannenwald, Olivia Reiner, Jeff Neiburg, Lauren Jones, Lochlahn March, David Murphy, Conor Smith, Mia Messina, and Maria McIlwain.

By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

Thanks for closing out the week with me. Have a wonderful weekend. I’ll be back in your inbox on Monday. — Bella