The Playlist: Week 9 waiver wire pickups and previewing a star-studded Christmas slate

The Green Bay Packers can secure a playoff spot with a win against the New Orleans Saints, who have struggled after a strong start to the season. Despite facing top NFC teams, the Packers remain undefeated against other opponents. Injuries will impact both teams, with Pro Bowl cornerback Jaire Alexander out for Green Bay and key players like Alvin Kamara and Derek Carr inactive for the Saints. Full Article

Referee David Coote will not appeal his termination by PGMOL after making derogatory remarks about Liverpool and manager Jurgen Klopp. Coote's contract was terminated due to a serious breach of conduct, including disrespectful comments towards Klopp. The investigation also looked into a video showing Coote allegedly snorting a white powder during Euro 2024. The FA and UEFA have opened investigations into Coote's behavior. Full Article

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a lawsuit against the NCAA to prevent transgender athletes from participating in women's sports, alleging violations of the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act. The lawsuit seeks to stop the NCAA from allowing transgender athletes to compete in women's sports in Texas and accuses the organization of jeopardizing the safety and fairness of women's sports. The NCAA has implemented policies regarding transgender athletes' eligibility based on testosterone suppression therapy...

Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand recalls a time when legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson was so displeased with Cristiano Ronaldo's performance that he made the Portuguese forward cry. This incident will be discussed in an upcoming program featuring Sir Alex Ferguson, which will be available for UK users to watch on iPlayer starting December 26th. For more stories and insights, listeners can tune in to Sporting Giants: Sir Alex Ferguson on Sounds. Full Article

In Week 17 of Yahoo Sports Fantasy Football, the top waiver wire pickups include running backs Kendre Miller of the Saints and Alexander Mattison/Ameer Abdullah of the Raiders, as well as wide receivers Jalen McMillan of the Buccaneers and Hollywood Brown of the Chiefs. Miller is the featured runner for New Orleans due to Alvin Kamara's injury, Mattison and Abdullah lead the Raiders backfield, McMillan is a key target for Tampa Bay, and Brown provides...

The Independent relies on reader support to cover stories ranging from reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech. Your donation helps fund on-the-ground reporting and investigations, ensuring quality journalism is accessible to all. New Southampton manager Ivan Juric is optimistic about the team's chances in the relegation battle, implementing his intense "death metal" style of play to motivate the young squad and make history in the Premier League. With past experience managing in Serie...