Steelers rookie Kaleb Johnson is likely to be benched from kickoff returns after a costly mistake in a game against the Seahawks, with coach Mike Tomlin indicating he will have to earn his spot back through improved performance. The team is also dealing with multiple injuries on defense, which affected their game performance.
Steelers rookie Kaleb Johnson will need to earn his way back into the kickoff return role after a costly mistake in a game against the Seahawks, with coach Mike Tomlin emphasizing the importance of earning trust through consistent performance.
In a remarkable NFL game, Miami's Malik Washington scored a 74-yard punt return TD, immediately followed by New England's Antonio Gibson returning a kickoff 90 yards for a TD, marking the first back-to-back kick return TDs of the season with six minutes remaining, and Patriots leading 30-27.
TreVeyon Henderson made an impressive NFL debut with a 100-yard kickoff return touchdown for the Patriots, showcasing the excitement of enhanced kickoff rules, and also contributed with additional yards in rushing and receiving during the game.
LSU's Aaron Anderson returned a kickoff 100 yards for a touchdown, marking the Tigers' first such play in four years, during their 37-17 victory over Oklahoma. This pivotal moment shifted the game's momentum, as LSU, trailing 14-10 before the return, outscored Oklahoma 27-3 afterward. Anderson, stepping in due to an injury to primary returner Zavion Thomas, has had a breakout season with 52 catches for 778 yards and five touchdowns. The win improved LSU's record to 8-4 for the season.
Freshman Zachariah Branch steals the show in his college football debut for USC, amassing 232 all-purpose yards and two touchdowns, including a 96-yard kickoff return. Branch's impressive performance helps propel USC to a 56-28 victory over San José State. He earns praise from both teammates and opponents, showcasing his skills on offense, special teams, and punt returns. Branch's standout performance outshines Heisman winner Caleb Williams, highlighting his potential as a rising star for USC.