Tua Tagovailoa has thrived in coach Mike McDaniel's offense with the Miami Dolphins.

Dolphins at Chargers: Preview and Prediction

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The Dolphins find themselves on the west coast for their first game of the season. They should be familiar after suffering an ugly 23-17 loss at So-Fi stadium last December.

 

The Chargers dialed up an effective game plan to stymie the high-powered Dolphins offense. Tua finished with just ten completions for 145 yards on twenty-eight pass attempts, while the defense surrendered 367 yards to Justin Herbert. The game really wasn’t as close as the score indicated, and one of Miami’s touchdowns came when Tyreek Hill took a fumbled ball from Jeff Wilson fifty-seven yards for a touchdown.

 

Now it’s week one; the start of a brand new season. The Dolphins have a new defensive coordinator, and Mike McDaniel should have a new game plan. In order for Miami to avoid repeating history, they need to focus on some key points.

 

Mike McDaniel needs to show range and discipline as a play-caller

 

Last season was a major offensive success, until it wasn’t. Like anything in the history of the NFL, teams will eventually figure you out. When the Niners and Chargers figured out how to stop the Dolphins attacking the middle of the field McDaniel had no answer.

 

It’s likely other teams will look to employ the same strategies this season, and it’ll be critical for the second year head coach to show he can adjust. Miami’s offense has to be multi-dimensional. McDaniel has to stay committed to his promise of running the ball more, especially in this game. The Chargers allowed the fifth most rushing yards last season, and didn’t do much to address that issue over the offseason.

 

Derwin James, JC Jackson, and Nick Bosa were out for last year’s game, but all three are healthy and ready to go for the Chargers’ defense. McDaniel is going to have to back-up his “genius” moniker if Miami wants to have any chance at success.

 

Allowing the run-game to set up the pass, particularly play-action, and utilizing the speed on offense through the screen game, could prove to be a successful approach. If it works, McDaniel has to try and refrain from getting too cute. It’s okay to go away from forcing downfield plays to Hill and Waddle if something else is working. Too often last season he abandoned the ground game when it was working. This season, and game in particular, will go a long way in showing what kind of growth McDaniel has, and if he make adjustments in-game.

 

The NFL in it’s simplest form is a chess match; move, counter-move. Can the yale-grad prove to be a chess master?

 

Time for the pass rushers to step up

 

New Chargers offensive coordinator Kellen Moore has promised this offense will feature a much more vertical passing game. With the size and down-field abilities of Keenan Allen, Mike Williams, and rookie Quintin Johnston, and the big arm of Herbert, it’s a pretty common sense approach.

 

Depending on how fast the Dolphins defense have picked up Vic Fangio’s, a vertical passing game could prove to be favorable matchup for Miami. Fangio’s confusing zone scheme is built to defend against big plays in the pass game, and Jevon Holland is an excellent deep safety.

 

Since Fangio’s scheme makes it difficult for opposing quarterbacks to get pre-snap reads, causing them to hold the ball longer post snap while they figure out ever-changing coverage looks, it could lead to some big plays for the defensive line.

That’s if they rushers can prove they’ve graduated from pressures, to finishes. They were among the league’s best in creating pressure last season, but struggled to get sacks.

 

Herbert is big and mobile, so it won’t be easy, but the secondary could cause coverage sack opportunities for Jaelan Phillips and Bradley Chubb. Phillips has high expectations this year as he looks to record his first double-digit sack season, and Chubb needs to prove his $110 million-dollar contract and first round pick the Dolphins traded to land him was worth it. Sunday afternoon is a terrific place for them to start.

 

Quick-hit key matchups

 

-Terron Armstead is OUT, So Kendall Lamm has his work cutout with Joey Bosa. He had a mostly strong preseason, and needs to show he can be the go-to backup plan for Armstead who likely won’t be missing his last game this year.

 

-Austin Jackson has appeared confident and ready to prove himself after an injury-marred season. He’ll get his opportunity against Khalil Mack.

 

-David Long Jr. and Jerome Baker will need to be productive as they work to stop Austin Akeler in the run and pass games.

 

-Like the Dolphins won’t already have their hands full with Allen, Williams, Johnston, Josh Palmer and Ekeler, how they choose to handle the vertical threat that tight end Gerald Everett brings will likely prove to be an important factor.

 

-The Dolphins are known for their wide-zone rushing attack, but Bosa and Mack should be able to set the edges. The focus should be running between the tackles. A mixture of Raheem Mostert and Chris Brooks could prove fruitful in attacking Sebastian Joseph-Day, Morgan Fox, and Austin Johnson in the interior.

 

Prediction

 

Week one is always a bit sloppy as most teams don’t play their starters much in the preseason. On top of that, both the Dolphins and Chargers have new coordinators and schemes that players are adjusting to.

 

This game could go either way, and may come down to game plans, more than the talent on both teams.

 

Tua should be fired up after missing the final three games last year, including the Dolphins playoff loss to the Bills, and I expect him to have a chip on his shoulder this season. His success against the Chargers will come down to the success of Miami’s gameplan, as he’s shown not to be a player who makes the same mistakes twice.

 

Ultimately, expecting the defense to quickly pick up a dramatically different scheme than what they’re used to, and a tough matchup for Miami’s offense, the Chargers should be able to capitalize at home.

 

Chargers 31, Dolphins 24

 

Key Insights Gleaned from Baltimore Ravens’ Preseason Finale

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The preseason finale often serves as a platform for those looking to prove themselves worthy of a roster spot. While stars are resting, the real battles occur among players trying to cement their places on the team. 

 

As the Baltimore Ravens locked horns with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, there were several noteworthy performances and notable absences. Let’s delve deep into the key insights from this intriguing matchup. 

Roster Absences

 

Sometimes, the players who don’t play reveal more about a team’s strategies than those who do. Two notable absences from the Ravens’ roster might offer clues about the team’s plans as they approach the regular season.  

 

The Seymour-Kelly Situation


Kevon Seymour, despite missing the recent practice, had been starting ahead of Kyu Blu Kelly at cornerback. With his veteran status allowing for certain roster moves without the waiver process, Seymour’s absence presents intriguing possibilities.

 

Mitchell’s Mysterious Absence


Rookie UDFA Keaton Mitchell showed potential as a runner and kick returner earlier in the preseason. But his absence from the finale raises questions: Is he part of the Ravens’ long-term plan? A vital position on any NFL roster is the backup quarterback. This preseason, the battle between Josh Johnson and Tyler Huntley had been closely watched, and the finale provided some valuable insights. Josh Johnson may have solidified his spot as the backup. Posting a 6-9 for 95 yards and a touchdown against the Buccaneers, his performance, coupled with his good health, speaks volumes.

 

Huntley’s Health and Roster Mechanics


With Huntley’s ongoing injury concerns, the Ravens might be forced to make some strategic decisions. Their approach towards him and Johnson will be crucial during the roster cutdowns, especially with the latter’s veteran status.

 

For those interested in wagering on the Ravens’ roster decisions or upcoming games, it might be worth checking out some online betting platforms. Make sure to use the DraftKings Maryland promo code for special offers.

 

Trenton Simpson’s Development

 

Trenton Simpson’s progression, or lack thereof, became a major point of discussion after the finale. A talented youngster, his performance in the preseason suggests there’s still much room for growth.  Despite being a third-round pick, Simpson found himself down the pecking order, playing later in the game and seemingly struggling to adapt.

 

His struggles in recent weeks raise questions about what role, if any, he might have in the upcoming season. Is he a long-term project or just going through early career hiccups? The starting left guard position has been one of the most keenly contested spots in the Ravens’ lineup this preseason. Two players have emerged as frontrunners.

 

John Simpson’s Dominance

 

John Simpson has emerged as a favorite for the left guard position, outperforming his peers and establishing a robust case for himself. While Aumavae-Laulu started the preseason on a strong note, recent performances suggest he’s struggling to keep pace with Simpson, especially when facing stronger opponents.

 

With Tyus Bowser out and new additions to the team, the edge rusher position has been a focal point of the preseason. The Ravens have some decisions to make. Jeremiah Moon has consistently started in the recent games, even ahead of fourth-round pick Tavius Robinson. His stock seems to be rising rapidly.

 

Wrapping It Up


As the preseason draws to a close, the Baltimore Ravens have given us a glimpse into the tough decisions they face. From roster absences to position battles, every moment of the finale offered a valuable insight. The preseason finale is more than just a game. For many players, it’s a final shot at making the roster or proving their worth.

 

With the roster taking shape and the regular season approaching, the Ravens and their fans have much to look forward to. The strategies and decisions made now will shape the team’s fortunes in the upcoming months.

 

The curtain has come down on the Baltimore Ravens’ preseason, a critical phase that offers a blend of anticipation, excitement, and anxiety. As we transition into the regular season, let’s recap and conclude on what these insights potentially mean for the team and its avid followers. The preseason is a complex tapestry of individual stories, hopes, dreams, and immense dedication. Players battle for their positions, veterans strive to maintain their standing, and rookies ardently aspire to cement a spot. The finale against the Buccaneers epitomized these very sentiments.

 

The Road Ahead

 

The insights gleaned from this finale highlight the depth and talent available to the Ravens. Each decision, from roster cuts to starting lineups, carries with it the weight of the season’s aspirations. As fans, while we may analyze and speculate based on these games, it’s essential to remember the broader picture. The real battle is just beginning, and the Ravens are shaping up to be a formidable force.

 

In essence, as we gear up for the regular season, one thing is clear: the Baltimore Ravens have an ensemble of talent, and how they harness it will define their journey ahead.

Neuroeducation: Applying Brain Science to Enhance Teaching and Learning

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In the dynamic realm of education, where innovation meets tradition, the integration of neuroscience and education has sparked a revolution known as neuroeducation. This cutting-edge field explores the intricate relationship between brain science and pedagogy, aiming to optimize teaching and learning strategies for enhanced educational outcomes. As we delve into the world of neuroeducation, we uncover a fascinating landscape that promises to reshape the way we approach education.

Mindful Learning and Attention

In an era of constant distractions, cultivating focused attention is a challenge. Neuroeducation introduces mindfulness practices into the classroom, promoting awareness and attention control. Techniques like mindful breathing and meditation enhance students’ ability to concentrate, manage stress, and regulate their emotions, thus improving their overall cognitive performance, while websites offering essays for sale can significantly diminish studying stress and anxiety arising from the hips of homework tasks.

Unraveling the Brain’s Mysteries

Within the intricate web of human cognition, the human brain emerges as a marvel of complexity, often hailed as the most intricate organ in existence. Its enigmatic workings hold the master key to comprehending the mechanisms of learning and knowledge acquisition. In this profound exploration, neuroeducation emerges as the conduit that bridges the realms of neuroscience and education, shedding light on the inner workings of learning.

  • Unveiling the Cognitive Tapestry. At the core of this fusion lies the fascinating interplay between the human brain and the art of education. Neuroeducation, a discipline that intertwines neuroscience and pedagogy, delves deep into the fabric of cognitive processes, revealing the delicate threads of memory, attention, and motivation.
  • Deciphering the Symphony of Memory. Memory, akin to a mosaic of experiences, is meticulously decoded through neuroeducation. The brain’s intricate mechanisms of retention and recall become accessible, empowering educators to craft strategies that etch knowledge into the annals of students’ minds.
  • Illuminating the Dance of Attention. Attention, the spotlight that guides the mind’s gaze, takes center stage in the journey of learning. Neuroeducation’s insights illuminate the factors that influence attention, enabling educators to choreograph an environment that captures and sustains students’ focus on the intricate details of learning.
  • Igniting the Flames of Motivation. Motivation, the fervent spark that propels learning, is kindled by the insights of neuroeducation. Unraveling the neural pathways of motivation empowers educators to stoke the fires of curiosity, ambition, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge.

The Science Behind Learning

Neuroeducation reveals that learning is not a passive endeavor but an intricate interplay of neural connections. When teachers tailor their approaches to align with how the brain learns best, they can create more engaging and effective learning environments. For instance, understanding the importance of repetition and spaced learning helps educators reinforce concepts over time, leading to better retention.

Applying Neuroeducation in Practice

Implementing neuroeducation principles doesn’t require a complete overhaul of teaching methods. Small adjustments based on brain science insights can yield significant results. For instance, interleaved practice—alternating between different types of problems during study sessions—has been shown to enhance long-term retention compared to massed practice, where one type of problem is practiced at a time.

Beyond the Classroom Walls

Neuroeducation’s impact isn’t confined to traditional classrooms. Online learning platforms and digital tools can leverage its principles to create personalized and adaptive learning experiences. These technologies can track individual progress, adjust difficulty levels in real time, and provide immediate feedback, all of which align with how the brain learns optimally.

How do the Marlins get back on track?

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Miami (66-65) hosted the Washington Nationals (61-70) for a three-game set and Washington ended up taking two out of three games from the Fish.

 

The inconsistencies with this Marlins squad continued as they struggled all weekend with putting the bat on the ball and driving in enough runs to win games. 

 

The post All-Star break numbers are abysmal for Miami. They hold the third-lowest record in baseball since the break with a record of 13-26 and are just 8-15 in the month of August. 

Things need to turn around quickly if Miami wants to keep their Wild Card chances alive. 

 

Here are takeaways from the series. 

 

Braxton Garrett’s solid start is not enough

 

Garrett struck-out three in six innings of work. He also gave up seven hits and three earned runs that included a two-run home run. 

 

The home run came off the bat of Nationals third baseman Carter Kieboom in the sixth inning when Garrett threw him a mistake hanging curveball that Kieboom crushed to left field. 

 

But besides that mistake pitch, Garrett pitched very well. At least enough to keep it close for the Marlins to have a chance to win. 

 

“I wanted the shutdown inning there and I just felt like I let the team down a little bit,” Garrett said about the home run he gave up in the sixth inning after the game. “But overall, it was good…I didn’t make a ton of mistakes tonight at all and made really good pitches.”

 

The Marlins had just three hits and no runs against Washington’s starting pitcher Joan Adon. So it was another day where a Miami starting pitcher failed to get run support. 

 

“I think he honestly threw one bad curveball that kind of cost him a couple runs,” Marlins manager Skip Schumaker said about Garrett’s performance after the game. “Otherwise Brax (Garrett) did what he needed to do…to win a game and we just couldn’t get anything going against their starter.”

 

Luis Arraez does not like the month of August

 

Arraez has been dealing with a cold stretch at the plate throughout the month of August. 

 

This month, Arraez is batting 22-for-97 (.227 avg) with his on-base percentage at just .235. 

 

His batting average has also dipped mightily as the season has progressed, sitting at .350 after getting it as high as .402 back on June 23. 

 

During the three-game series, Arraez was just 2-for-12 at the plate which is extremely uncharacteristic for a guy with elite bat-to-ball skills.

 

The Marlins offense relies on the play from Arraez. If he’s playing well, Miami plays well. But if he doesn’t, well, we’ve seen what’s been happening. 

 

Eury Pérez is going to be special

 

Pérez threw six innings and allowed two hits, one run (unearned), one walk and collected seven strikeouts. 

 

Despite Pérez throwing a gem, the Marlins decided to take him out of the game after six innings and 76 pitches to preserve his arm. 

 

“He’s still on innings limits here,” Schumaker said about pulling Pérez out of the game after six innings. “You’ve got to pick and choose when to push and when not to and we’ve got a fresh bullpen and so we were maybe going to get one more inning out of him.”

 

Schumaker went on to say, “Where he’s (Pérez) at in his career and this season, that was going to be it right there no matter what.”

 

In 15 games for the Marlins this season, Pérez has an ERA of 2.68 and is averaging 10.95 strikeouts per nine innings. 

 

“I feel great,” Pérez said after Game 2. “…Feeling great, I’m healthy. Trying to have fun out there and trying to put my team in a good position (to win).”

 

Miami’s scouting department has been doing a fantastic job as they continue to find young and talented pitchers. Guys like Sandy Alcantara, Braxton Garrett and Pérez are going to make this rotation elite for the coming years. 

 

Let me remind you that Pérez is also just 20 years old. 

 

What happened to David Robertson?

 

This is not what Miami had in mind when they traded for a veteran relief pitcher in David Robertson back on July 28 in exchange for a couple of young prospects in Marco Vargas and Ronald Hernandez. 

 

In nine games for the Marlins this year, Robertson has an 8.00 ERA and just three saves in six save opportunities. He’s also given up two home runs and opponents are batting .289 against him.

 

“He’s done it before. That’s why we got him,” Schumaker said about Robertson’s struggles in a Marlins uniform. “He’s been the ninth inning, big spots, postseason tested. And it’s not a lack of effort…All the guys are giving everything they’ve got and I think that’s what makes it even tougher.”

 

Miami was holding onto a 2-1 lead heading into the ninth inning of Game 2 and Robertson came in the game to close it out. 

 

He had some traffic on the bases but eventually found himself with two outs and two strikes against Nationals left fielder Jake Alu. But, Alu would hit a grounder up the middle to tie the game at two a piece. 

 

The next batter, catcher Jacob Stallings was charged with a passed ball which drove in another run for the Nationals and ultimately gave them a 3-2 victory. 

 

“This is just a crappy outing by me,” Robertson said about his blown save after Game 2. “Went out there and blew the game for the guys. It was pathetic. Threw the ball like crap, didn’t get any outs. Just didn’t make any pitches.”

 

It’s not like the Marlins traded for a bad reliever by any means. This guy was lights out with the New York Mets this season. He had a 2.06 ERA with 12 saves in 15 opportunities. Opponents were batting just .207 against him as well. 

 

Miami needs Robertson to somehow get back to his previous form if they want to make a final push for the postseason. 

 

The Marlins will have a day off tomorrow and play the Tampa Bay Rays for a two-game series. Game 1 is on Tuesday, August 29 with the first pitch at 6:40 p.m. ET on Bally Sports Florida. 

 

Preseason Primer: Dolphins at Jaguars

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The Dolphins will take the field tonight in Jacksonville, in what will be their final preseason matchup. According to HC Mike McDaniel, he expects to play starters for anywhere between “more than a series, and less than a half”. It’s also expected that the Jaguars will play their top unit for most of the first half. 

While the impact of the starting units isn’t much more than a dress-rehearsal for the regular season, there are still important things to keep an eye on. NFL teams must trim their rosters to 53 by Tuesday’s deadline, so this will serve as a last-chance effort for bubble players, and camp positional battles to potentially find resolution. 

Most of the Dolphins roster looks pretty set in stone, but these are the things I’ll be keeping my eye on at the 7pm kickoff: 

 

Will the Dolphins keep a fourth running back? If so, then who? 

Barring a Jonathan Taylor trade, current running backs Raheem Mostert, Jeff Wilson Jr, and Devon Achane, look to be locks for the final 53. The other three backs, Salvon Ahmed, Myles Gaskin, and Chris Brooks have all contributed strong preseason performances, so if McDaniel decides to keep a fourth it won’t be an easy decision. 

Gaskin, now in his fifth season with the Dolphins, is the longest tenured runner on the roster. The former seventh-round pick is the most polished runner of the three, and his scrappy nature is a big part of why he’s lasted in Miami this long. 

Ahmed’s skill set may be a bit redundant with rookie third-round pick Devon Achane on the roster, but after Achane suffered a shoulder injury last week, Ahmed could be safe to make the initial roster. 

Undrafted rookie Chris Brooks is the most intriguing of the group. At 6 ‘1”, 223 lbs Brooks is the biggest and most powerful runner on the team, and has run with force and vision in the previous exhibitions. It will be interesting to see how many snaps he gets against the Jaguars, as he still appears to be a long shot behind the incumbents. Even if he doesn’t survive final-cuts, he will likely be a player that Miami looks to add to their practice squad. 

 

Tight ends Durham Smythe and Tyler Kroft look to be safe, but which tight end will step up to claim the third spot?

The answer to this could very well come down to which player the team feels could be a contributor on special teams. Eric Saubert got some h-back, and special teams reps last week against the Texans, but has largely been unimpressive throughout campo and the exhibition season. Rookie sixth-round pick Elijah Higgins brings some upside to the team with his receiving ability, and had some good run-blocking reps between the first two games. He is raw, having recently transitioned from his college position at wide receiver, he may be someone they look to stash on the practice squad. 

Tanner Conner may be the name to watch. After a standout performance in camp last year as an undrafted rookie, Conner made the team, but failed to see much playing time behind Mike Gesicki and Smythe. He has missed nearly all of training camp while on the physically-unable-to-perform (PUP) list, but was activated this past week. He doesn’t have much time to make an impression, so today’s game could be pivotal if Conner hopes to extend his stay on Miami’s active roster. 

Current undrafted rookie Julian Hill has flashed throughout the offseason, and could have an outside chance, particularly if Miami decides to keep four tight ends. 

 

Where is Robbie Chosen? 

Chosen was an exciting addition this off-season, and flashed his speed in OTA’s, but he’s had a surprisingly quiet training camp. It no longer feels like he’s a lock to make the roster, especially when River Cracraft can play on special teams. If McDaniel chooses to only keep five receivers, Chosen may be on the outside looking in, with Braxton Berrios, Cedrick Wilson, and Erik Ezukanma securely on the roster. 

 

With Robert Jones hurt, and Lester Cotten missing time, has Isaiah Wynn locked up the left guard spot, and how many snaps does Liam Eichenberg see in his return to action? 

It’ll be interesting to see if Eichenberg receives any snaps with the first-team. He was clearly losing the left guard battle before being sidelined with an injury. I don’t know that there’s much he can do to be the opening day starter, but a strong performance could be the kick-starter his confidence needs after a rough training camp. Right now it looks like Wynn has claimed the starting job, but it’s important he continues to play strong after an impressive camp by Lester Cotton. 

 

The Dolphins have a slew of defensive backs that could all make their case for the final 53, but Miami can’t keep everyone. Xavien Howard, Kader Kohou, Jevon Holland, Cam Smith, Eli Apple, DeShon Elliott, and Brandon Jones are all locks to make the team. Noah Igbinoghene is likely to make the team, as he’s on the final year of his rookie deal. After them, there’s a lot of intriguing young players, like Trill Williams, Verone McKinley, Noah Igbinoghene, Keidron Smith, and Bryce Thompson, that could all do themselves a huge favor with a strong performance tonight in Jacksonville. 

Special teams standout Elijah Campbell has probably locked up a spot, but another core special teams player may be in doubt. After missing a chunk of time with an injury, Keion Crossen returned to practice this week, but with the depth in the secondary, he may be on the outside looking in. 

 

Can any of the young players earn their spot with a solid showing on special teams? 

Undrafted rookies like linebackers Mitchell Agude, Garrett Nelson, and Aubrey Miller Jr, all have a real chance to make the team if they can prove to be of value on special teams. All three have flashed in different parts of the offseason, but Nelson and Agude have really turned it up in the exhibition games. It wouldn’t be a shock if one of them earns one of the final spots on Miami’s 53.

Biggest Benefits of Playing Basketball for Students

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We often hear things like: “playing basketball will help you grow taller” or “sports will make you stronger and faster”. This is not inaccurate. It is not a myth or a misconception. There are tons of studies that show how beneficial basketball can be for those that practice it. But, it expands beyond growing taller or becoming stronger. 

There are tons of benefits from playing basketball, and this sport has the biggest perks for the younger generations. If you want to learn how basketball can improve the college student’s life, keep reading. For those students who also need assistance with their academic writing, an online essay writing service can be a helpful resource.

  • Playing Basketball Helps You Get Higher Grades

Many argue that playing sports in college takes away the focus from the studying or leaves very little time for students to focus on their academic tasks. Well, this is not accurate. There is tons of research that point out to the positive effects on the academic performance in athletes. 

Sports help students beat the stress, which is the main reason why they lose motivation and focus. They also help them build time management and teamwork skills, which are essential for deadlines, as well as school projects. 

Yes, juggling academic tasks, practice and matches all at the same time is challenging. However, this is no reason to believe that students cannot do both. When they rid themselves from the stress thanks to basketball, they will spend less time writing their papers and be more motivated to study. On top of that, as a student, you can today easily find depression essays for your paper and get inspired by quality content from companies like EduBirdie. Essay samples can help you write your papers faster and better, and let’s not forget that you can even order when you don’t have the time to write them yourself!

  • Sports Encourage Socialization

School sports such as basketball are great for socialization. They create a feeling of belonging and boost the self-esteem in the players. For a student, socialization is very important and playing sports is one of the best forms of it. In a team, teammates develop lifelong bonds, and they also find it easier to socialize with fans of the game. 

Source

  • Basketball Has Tremendous Health Benefits for the Player

The health benefits of basketball as a sport are numerous. Start with strength and stamina – playing this sport often will boost the student’s agility, strength, and help them move faster. It also builds up the muscular endurance and builds upper and lower body strength. 

In addition to this, playing a team sport like this one has a positive effect on the strength of bones. A 2018 research shows that people who played sports like basketball and handball have more bone mineral density than people with a more sedentary lifestyle. 

Since the game of basketball requires a lot of focus and great coordination, it’s also an amazing balance booster. As students play, they need to move their body fast and react in the form of changing directions, pivot, run and jump. They also develop defensive moves, all of which offers them the opportunity to develop their motor skills.

Last but not least, basketball boosts the health of the heart. According to research data, it increases the resting heart rates and promotes the cardiorespiratory fitness health.  All this creates a much lower chance of developing cardiovascular diseases in the future. 

  • It Develops Self-Discipline and Concentration

In the game of basketball, everything happens in a set timeframe. This is a game of seconds where one choice can make all the difference for the score. The course of basketball can change rapidly so players, especially student athletes, need to work hard to develop their concentration while on the field. 

In addition to this, basketball helps students build up their self-discipline, both on the court and off it. They must follow the rules of the game, conduct sportsmanlike, and practice professionally. Even when they aren’t playing, they need to engage in workouts, maintain a healthy diet, etc. 

Source

Final Thoughts

We all know that playing sports is good for our health, but did you know that there are so many benefits of it for students? This will not only help you look good in front of the peers, create lifelong friends from your team, or make you look physically fit – it will also strengthen your health and boost important life skills such as concentration, critical thinking, and decision-making. All in all, it’s a great sport to practice. 

 

Author’s Bio

Matthew Torain is a sports blogger and writer for a popular content creation service. As a former basketball player in his college’s league, Matthew often shares his knowledge and tricks with young players. In his articles, you can often read about his experiences, as well as learn interesting facts about sports. 

Things You Should Know About NHL Betting

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There are multiple methods to bet on an NHL game, but the most familiar are arguably the money line, spaces (or puck line), and over/under lines (total goals). The first thing to remember is that it’s always worth shopping around: rather than committing to a single sportsbook, you can take advantage of large bonuses and ensure you get the cheapest pricing by having many online betting accounts with expert NHL picks.

NHL Betting Odds

It is the most basic way to wager on the NHL. You gamble on the game’s outcome with a moneyline wager: A 2-way money line wager selects either the home or away team to win; a 3-way money line gamble includes a tie as an alternative. On a 2-way bet, you’ll win regardless of how your team wins (in regulation, overtime, or in a shootout). That is, the odds of a team winning on a 3-way bet are higher than on a 2-way bet. So, if you believe one team will dominate, a 3-way gamble may be worth considering, although a 2-way wager provides a bit more options in close games. 

Puck Lines in the NHL

The spread, often known as the puck line, is a gamble on the outcome of a game with a handicap applied. A big favourite, for example, may open the game with a -1.5 line. That means they’d have to win by two distinct goals (‘cover/beat’ the spread) for your gamble to be successful. Similarly, a weak squad facing an in-form opponent may start with a +2.5 line. Your wager on the +2.5 would win if the underdogs held the favourite within two goals, but would lose if they lost by three or more goals (i.e., 0-3, 1-4, 2-5).

Puck line wagers

Puck line wagers are excellent because the handicap assists to level the playing field in a one-sided game where the money line payout may not be worth the risk. If you know what you’re doing, the spread is a terrific market to bet on – perhaps you believe an underdog’s defence is better than the prices indicate, in which case a wager against the spread (on the plus handicap) could be a good bet.

Total Goals in the NHL – Over/Under

The over/under line is another common choice. It is also known as the Total Goals market on various sportsbooks; it is the same thing. The streak is usually set between 5 and 8 goals, with lower lines used in NHL computer picks games with evenly matched or low-scoring teams and higher lines used in games with attacks or mismatched teams. The stripe is typically set halfway between two whole numbers (e.g., 5.5 or 6.5) to exclude the possibility of a push, in which the total goals match the line and bets are stakes returned.

Parlays in the NHL

It is when things become fascinating! A parlay bet is a single wager that includes two or more options, which must be correct for your wager to win. The odds are multiplied by the number of selections added to the parlay. Assume you picked the Bruins to win at -335 against the Senators, the Kings to win at +116, and the Oilers to win at -196 against the Red Wings. Three $5 bets on those three results would result in a total profit of $9.84. 

NHL Predictions

Player props are markets where you can bet on a player’s performance rather than backing a team outcome (as in the betting lines examples above). Do you want Draisaitl to score more than once? Place your bet on Draisaitl over/under 1.5 goal total. Do you think Panarin will have a couple of assists tonight? Likewise, numerous online bookmakers will accept bets on their own display.

NHL Prospects

Futures are substantially longer-term bets that can take an entire season to settle. These are not betting on specific games but rather wagers on overall season outcomes. It is where you may bet on clubs to win their conference/division, make the playoffs, or win the Cup.

 

7 Biggest Pro Basketball Leagues in the World

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Basketball is one of the biggest sports around the globe. Many people from different places know how to play sports. Moreover, many also follow basketball leagues and admire prominent figures on the court. Because of its popularity, major leagues were founded in different parts of the world, sharing the universal rules of the game. 

Let’s learn more about these gigantic professional basketball leagues and get to know how they have impacted the game’s development throughout the years,

National Basketball Association (NBA)

The National Basketball League (NBA) was founded on June 6, 1946, in New York City, United States of America. There are 30 participating teams in the league every season, where 29 of the teams are from the US, and one is from Canada. The teams with the most wins are Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers, with 17 wins each. 

In the most recent time, Golden State Warriors are considered the dominating team in the league, with seven titles. The NBA finals for this season are close. To stay ahead of the game, see this website for betting lines.

What’s impressive about the NBA is that it has a social responsibility program called NBA Cares that aims to address different social issues around the globe. These include youth and family development, education, and health-related concerns. They partner with youth-serving programs to realize their goals.

EuroLeague Basketball

Founded 65 years ago on December 14, 1947, the EuroLeague Basketball has become one of the most-followed professional basketball leagues worldwide. Eighteen professional basketball teams in Europe play in the league, and the current champion is Real Madrid, with 11 titles under their name, including their win in 2003. 

The league is televised through 201 countries and territories. In China, 245 million households follow the league. It is also available to watch through NBA TV in the United States and Canada. In the 2017-2018 season, its average attendance for league matches was 8,780, making it the second professional basketball league with the highest attendance, next to the NBA. 

Chinese Basketball Association (CBA)

The Chinese Basketball Management Center organizes the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA). The league has been running since the 1995-1996 inaugural season. Every season, two divisions and 20 teams participate in the league. It is considered the top-level professional basketball league in China. 

The current champions in the CBA are the Liaoning Flying Leopards, with three titles. In history, the team with the most wins in the league is the Guangdong Southern Tigers. 

Australian National Basketball League

Founded in 1979, the National Basketball League (NBL) in Australia has become the largest professional basketball league in the region and is considered one of the biggest in the world. John Raschke founded the league 44 years ago. Ten teams compete for the title every season, nine from Australia and one from New Zealand. The team with the most recent wins in the league is the Perth Wildcats, with 19 titles. Meanwhile, the most recent champions are the Sydney Kings, with five wins. 

Before the league was established, two professional basketball competitions existed in Australia: the Australian Club Championships and the National Titles. The NBL is the third longest-running sports league in the country, following the domestic cricket competition and the Australian Football League. 

Liga ACB (Spain)

The Liga ACB is the top-level professional basketball league in Spain. Founded in 1983, the Liga ACB has become one of the most popular indoor sports in the world. A total of 18 participating teams partake in the Liga ACB every season. The most current champion in the league is Real Madrid, with 14 wins, while the team with the most wins is Barcelona, with 16 titles. Other successful teams in Liga ACB were Joventut Badalona, Baskonia, Basquet Manresa, Valencia Basket, and Maloncesto Malaga. 

Its 2018-2019 season saw an average attendance of 6,236, making it the ninth most-attended domestic professional indoor sports league globally. Moreover, it is considered the fourth most attended basketball league around the world, trailing the National Basketball Association (NBA), the EuroLeague, and the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). 

Korean Basketball League (KBL)

The Korean Basketball League (KBL) was founded in 1997 in South Korea. Universities and corporate companies sponsor early clubs in the league. Some pioneers were sponsored by the Industrial Bank of Korea (IBK), the Korea Development Bank (KDB), Yonsei University, and Korea University. Large industrial companies like Hyundai Electronics, Kia Motors, and Samsung Electronics have also sponsored their basketball teams later. 

A total of ten professional basketball clubs play in the KBL every season. The current champions are the Anyang KGC, with four titles, the latest season being the most recent. Meanwhile, the club with the most wins is the Ulsan Hyundai Mobis Phoebus, with seven titles. 

Ligue Nationale de Basket Pro A

Also known as the Betclic Elite in France, the Ligue Nationale de Basket was founded in June 1921. It is organized by the Ligue Nationale de Basket (LNB), France’s professional men’s basketball governing body. Seventeen teams from France and one from Monaco participate in the Ligue Nationale de Basket Pro A regular season. In the latest season, it was reduced to 16 clubs. 

The most recent champion in the league is the LDLC Asvel, with 21 titles. The team has also recorded the most wins in the league. 

Conclusion

The seven basketball leagues we have included here are considered because of their long history, viewership ratings, and following. The NBA and the rest of the leagues mentioned here were familiar to every avid basketball fan around the world. These leagues have contributed to the resounding success of the sport and its continued hit in the coming generations.

Miracle comeback gives Marlins the series vs. Yankees: 5 Takeaways

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The New York Yankees (60-58) rolled into LoanDepot Park to play the Miami Marlins (62-57) in a three-game set and the cardiac Fish were in full force. 

 

Trailing 7-3 heading into the ninth inning, Miami would end up scoring five runs to come back and not only win the game, but the series as well. I’m telling you, this team does not quit. 

 

But pitching was a bit questionable for Miami. 

 

Other than Sandy Alcantara’s complete game on Saturday, the Marlins starting pitchers really struggled against New York’s lineup.

 

Shortstop Anthony Volpe came up big for the Yankees as he hit a couple of home runs over the series. Right fielder Aaron Judge made his presence known by hitting a moonshot to center field in Game 1. Second baseman Gleyber Torres stole a career-high three bases in Game 3. 

 

But in the end, the Marlins found a way to win and are very much alive in that playoff chase. 

 

Here are five takeaways from the series. 

 

Jesus Luzardo’s outing to forget

 

It was a rough time on the mound for Marlins left-handed pitcher Jesus Luzardo. 

 

Luzardo got the start in Game 1 of the series and he did not look comfortable at all out there right from the jump. 

 

In just 3.1 innings, Luzardo gave up nine hits, seven earned runs that included a couple of homers off the bat of Anthony Volpe and Aaron Judge and one walk. We’re so used to seeing him put up impressive strikeout numbers but he only had two on the night. 

 

The second inning was where most of the damage was done. 

 

He allowed five hits and both of the home runs came in the second inning. 

 

The 3.1 innings were his lowest of the season while also giving up a season-high in hits and earned runs. 

 

ANOTHER complete game from Sandy

 

Alcantara looked the best he’s looked all year in Saturday’s game. 

 

He threw a complete game, the 12th of his career and an MLB-leading third on the season. 

 

“I think my consistency, throwing a strike,” Alcantara said about what was working for him after the game. “I think they (Yankees) just was (were) very aggressive today.”

 

In nine innings, Alcantara allowed five hits, one earned run, two walks and struck-out 10 Yankee hitters on 116 pitches. 

 

He now has 13 career double-digit strikeout games which puts him at a tie for second on the Marlins all-time leaderboard with Ricky Nolasco. Jose Fernandez sits at the top of the list with 18 games. 

 

“It was a really impressive outing at a time where our team needed it the most,” Marlins manager Skip Schumaker said about Alcantara’s outing after the game. 

 

If he can get back to his form that he was at a season ago, the Marlins just might have their ace back. 

 

Luis Arraez hit a ball into the upper deck 

 

Yes, you read that right. Marlins second baseman Luis Arraez hit just his fourth home run of the season against Yankees reliever Michael King in the first inning of Game 2. 

 

Arraez turned around a 97 mph fastball from King and sent the ball to the upper deck in right field. The home run ball’s distance was 409 feet, the longest of his career. 

 

“I just prepared my mind,” Arraez said about what he was looking for before his home run. “…I just lay action to that pitch. 97 (mph) inside and I just used my hands.”

 

Of course, Arraez isn’t known for his power, but by the way he consistently finds a way to put the ball in play.

 

“That was a tough pitch, 97 (mph) in on his hands,” Shumaker said about Arraez’s home run after Game 2. “He’s been working, he’s been kind of pissed off that he hasn’t been producing lately…He’s hitting .370 still so I think he’s going to be ok.”

 

Eury Perez hasn’t looked good

 

It’s been a rough couple of starts since being called back up to the Marlins for right-hander Eury Perez. 

 

He was on the mound for Game 3 of the series and it didn’t go as smooth as he hoped for. 

 

Perez logged four innings, allowed four hits, four earned runs, two walks and had five strikeouts. 

 

Perez allowed four runs in his last outing also which was against the Reds. 

 

He looked lights-out before being sent down back in early July and he just hasn’t performed at the same level as of late. It’ll be interesting to see if he can get it going going forward. 

 

A comeback for the ages

 

It was all Yankees in Game 3, at least for the first eight innings. 

 

Trailing 7-3 heading into the bottom of the ninth inning, things looked bleak for the Marlins. 

 

“Let’s go Yankees” chants can be heard echoing around LoanDepot Park, fans were heading out of the stadium to beat the traffic and it was all smiles in the Yankees dugout. Until, Yuli Gurriel hit a leadoff double off of right-handed reliever Clay Holmes. 

 

The Marlins suddenly started to find their groove, stringing together some great at-bats. Nick Fortes hit an infield single, Jazz Chisholm Jr. drew a walk and next thing you know, the bases are loaded for Josh Bell. 

 

Bell would put a ball in play and Holmes had an errant throw to first base which allowed two runs to score for Miami. 

 

Arraez would then hit a two-RBI triple to tie the game at 7-7. In a blink of an eye, that Yankee lead evaporated. 

 

Jake Burger would eventually hit a single to walk it off for the Marlins in what was the game of the year. 

 

The Fish rallied for five runs in the ninth to win the game 8-7 and the weekend series two games to one. 

 

The Marlins will play the Houston Astros next for a three-game series in Miami. Game 1 will be on Monday, Aug. 14 with a 6:40 p.m. ET first pitch on Bally Sports Florida. 

Messi Birthday Special: Lionel Messi’s Monumental Impact on the MLS

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Messi is a big brand in the soccer world, famous for his exceptional abilities. Before the news spread about Messi’s moving to Inter Miami, the team had 900,000 followers on their Instagram profile. As soon as Messi entered the game, their following list grew significantly. They had more followers than any other famous team. With eight million followers, the team broadcasts to a vast network of fans. From beginners to real football enthusiasts that take advantage of the $100 sign up bonus, no deposit kind of deal, we can say that they support Messi. 

You can see that Messi significantly impacts the team, even before hitting the field. But what will happen when he shows off his capabilities? 

Increased quality

Sergio Busquets confirmed he will be joining him in the 305. Therefore, the transfer of Messi to Inter Miami doesn’t only make the team more competitive but also increases playing quality. 

The opposing teams will now face a new challenge. The experienced player will encourage them to improve their game as soon as he steps on the field. The opposing team will be obligated to strengthen their squads and improve their strategy to answer to this situation.

We saw what happened when Christiano Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr. Many talented players followed suit and joined him in the middle east. Before Ronaldo, there was a stigma. It seems like he is an icebreaker that led talents there. Of course, they were offered immense money to follow suit, but Ronaldo made the first move that motivated them.

It is predicted that the same thing will happen after Messi’s transfer. However, it is evident that the transfer will improve Inter Miami and benefit other teams. Opponents will do everything to match Messi’s performance, and we will see the improvement they make and in which areas it gets implied.

Fan engagement

Messi’s transfer is expected to increase global attention for MLS and fan engagement. As previously mentioned, he has already increased fan engagement by increasing the Instagram following list. His presence in the league will attract a larger international audience, resulting in higher TV ratings. In addition, MLS will have increased revenue due to ticket and merchandise sales. 

The increase in ticket prices is already apparent. The tickets that offered $25 are now $300, which is a significant increase. 

Sponsorship opportunities

The league also sees Messi as an ideal opportunity for sponsorships and endorsements. Brands will want to partner with the MSL if they want to associate their name with Messi. Also, brands will like to sponsor other players and the MSL itself.

Messi and other MSL players will become part of essential marketing campaigns. The thing that many sports fans are eager to see is a collaboration between MSL and NBA. This would be a historic moment for many enthusiasts. You have probably seen the commercial back from 2013 that gathers Koby Briant and Lionel Messi. Collabs like this one will be iconic and become memorable moments. 

Promoting soccer culture

Messi’s transfer will have a significant impact on the soccer culture in the US and also motivate young talents. He will become the ultimate role model inspiring youngsters to engage in soccer culture and improve their skills. Moreover, the World Cup will partially take place in the US in 2026. Messi will likely be featured in the major event, and his presence fosters a strong soccer culture. This, paired with the hype for World Cup 2026, will write new pages in soccer history.