NFL Week 17 Saturday: Rams outlast Cardinals, Bengals defeat Broncos to contend for AFC's final playoff spot, Chargers clinch playoffs with win over Patriots

In the Yahoo Sports Fantasy Football analysis by Scott Pianowski, the top-25 league winners who contributed to championship victories in 2024 are highlighted. Players such as Jalen McMillan, Tee Higgins, and Saquon Barkley were among the most impactful, with standout performances throughout the season. Other key contributors included Jonathan Taylor, Bucky Irving, and Joe Burrow, showcasing their fantasy prowess and consistency. The list also features names like Jahmyr Gibbs, Baker Mayfield, and J.K. Dobbins, who...

The Independent relies on reader support to cover important stories, from reproductive rights to climate change. Your donation helps fund investigative journalism and documentaries like 'The A Word'. Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim remains optimistic despite a recent string of losses, aiming to implement his tactical vision despite challenges. Newcastle's win over United showcased their resurgence, with manager Eddie Howe emphasizing the team's return to form after a patchy start to the season. Full Article

Eric Woodyard, covering the Detroit Lions for ESPN, reports on their victory over the San Francisco 49ers in a high-stakes rematch. Lions quarterback Jared Goff excelled under pressure, leading the team to a perfect 8-0 road record with 303 passing yards and three touchdowns. Despite the Lions' defensive struggles against the 49ers, wide receiver Jameson Williams continued his impressive performance, nearing a 1,000-yard receiving season. Full Article

Liverpool have rejected an offer from Real Madrid for Trent Alexander-Arnold, while Juventus and Napoli are eyeing a move for Joshua Zirkzee. Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk are expected to extend their stays at Liverpool, who are considering replacements for Darwin Nunez. Manchester United must sell before buying in January, and Barcelona are interested in Dani Olmo. Full Article

Miami Heat player Jimmy Butler was noncommittal about his future with the team, stating that he doesn't care about being traded and that it's out of his control. Heat president Pat Riley denied any plans to trade Butler, but the player mentioned he is open to whatever happens, whether he stays or goes, ahead of the NBA trade deadline in February. Butler, who has been with the Heat since 2019, is reportedly interested in being...

The Independent relies on reader support to cover important stories, from reproductive rights to climate change, without paywalls. Your donation helps fund investigative reporting, documentaries like 'The A Word', and on-the-ground journalism. In sports news, Liverpool has rejected Real Madrid's approach to sign Trent Alexander-Arnold, affirming he is not for sale in January. Talks are ongoing for a new deal for Alexander-Arnold, along with Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk, as they continue to excel...