San Fransisco 49ers tight end George Kittle doesn't expect his injury absence to extend beyond on...

<p>San Fransisco 49ers tight end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/72637" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/72637">George Kittle</a> doesn't expect his injury absence to extend beyond one week.</p><p>"I will be playing on Sunday. Very excited. Can't pass up playing the Packers," Kittle told reporters Wednesday. </p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">“I will be playing on Sunday. Very excited, can’t pass up playing the Packers. I will be out there for sure.”<br><br>George Kittle says he’s good to go for Sunday <a href="https://t.co/O71Byg8sPp">pic.twitter.com/O71Byg8sPp</a></p>— KNBR (@KNBR) <a href="https://twitter.com/KNBR/status/1859346850459025431?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Kittle missed the 49ers' loss to the Seattle Seahawks last week with a hamstring injury. The 31-year-old sustained the injury after scoring a fourth-quarter touchdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Nov. 10.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Head coach Kyle Shanahan said Monday that Kittle would be "close" to returning to the field, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/42473711/san-francisco-49ers-brock-purdy-added-injury-report-shoulder-soreness">ESPN's Nick Wagoner</a>. Kittle was limited in Wednesday's practice.</p><p>The five-time Pro Bowler has been one of the 49ers' most productive members this season, recording 560 receiving yards and seven touchdowns in eight games. He's also scored the most points for San Fransisco behind kicker Jake Moody.</p><p>Kittle was also sidelined Sept. 22 against the Los Angeles Rams. The absence was his first game missed due to an injury since 2022.</p><p>The 49ers face the Packers on Sunday at 4:25 p.m. ET.</p>

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - AUGUST 23: George Kittle #85 of the San Francisco 49ers during a preseason game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium on August 23, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29108618/related

49ers' Kittle promises return vs. Packers: 'I will be playing'

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes isn't fretting after the Buffalo Bills snapped his...

<p>Kansas City Chiefs quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/89514" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/89514">Patrick Mahomes</a> isn't fretting after the Buffalo Bills snapped his team's perfect start to the season.</p><p>"The undefeated thing was cool, but that's not our ultimate goal," Mahomes said postgame Sunday, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/42455714/buffalo-bills-hand-kansas-city-chiefs-first-loss-season">ESPN's Adam Teicher</a>.</p><p>"We feel like we can play better, so we will get back to work and try to use it as a spark so that we can be a better football team in the end."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The result in Buffalo marks Kansas City's first regular-season loss since Christmas Day 2023 when it fell to the Las Vegas Raiders. Seven of the Chiefs' past nine games were decided by one score.</p><p>Mahomes completed 23 of 33 passes for 196 yards and three touchdowns against the Bills. He also threw two interceptions, the first coming on the opening offensive drive. Mahomes has 11 INTs through 11 weeks, tying him with Geno Smith and Jordan Love for the most picks thrown this season.</p><p>"I'm hoping that (losing) is a benefit. I'm not going to say I or we relaxed, but at the same time, I feel like we were just coming away with these wins at the end of the game," Mahomes said. "I think it's going to spark us to have more urgency, especially at the start of football games, especially with the offense, and that comes from me and turning the ball over on the first drive. It's something you can't do in big games like this."</p><p>Mahomes added that he hopes this loss starts a new winning streak for the Chiefs. Kansas City had won 15 straight, including postseason games, and was one victory short of the franchise record.</p><p>The Chiefs will look to rebound on the road against the Carolina Panthers next Sunday.</p>

ORCHARD PARK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 17: Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs throws a pass against the Buffalo Bills during the fourth quarter at Highmark Stadium on November 17, 2024 in Orchard Park, New York.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29084057/related

Mahomes unbothered by losing undefeated streak: 'Not our ultimate goal'

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson is grateful he got an opportunity to show his g...

<p>Indianapolis Colts quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188125" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188125">Anthony Richardson</a> is grateful he got an opportunity to show his growth from his short time on the sidelines in Sunday's 28-27 win over the New York Jets.</p><p>"Just (wanted to) show that my hard work and preparation is still there. I'm still here for my guys," Richardson told <a href="https://x.com/NFLonCBS/status/1858256251072970903">CBS's AJ Ross</a> postgame.</p><p>Richardson completed 20 of 30 passes for 272 yards and one touchdown versus the Jets. He also rushed for two touchdowns, including a go-ahead TD with 51 seconds left in regulation to snap Indianapolis' three-game losing streak.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Colts head coach Shane Steichen <a data-in-app-uri="" href="">benched</a> Richardson for the past two games to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3129169" href="https://thescore.com/news/3129169">reportedly</a> give the second-year quarterback a wake-up call, replacing him with veteran <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/2945" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/2945">Joe Flacco</a>. However, the 2023 No. 4 overall pick said earlier this week that he was "<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3127826" href="https://thescore.com/news/3127826">low-key glad</a>" the club benched him and that it opened his eyes to improvements he needed.</p><p>Steichen said Wednesday that Richardson would remain the Colts' starting quarterback for the rest of the season when announcing the 22-year-old's return to the No. 1 role.</p><p>"Is he a finished product? No," Steichen said Wednesday, per <a href="https://www.nfl.com/news/anthony-richardson-back-as-colts-starting-qb-showed-improvement-after-attention-grabbing-benching">NFL Network's Ian Rapoport</a>. "But we've got a lot of faith that he's going to be our franchise quarterback."</p><p>The Colts look to continue their win streak against the NFC-leading Detroit Lions next Sunday.</p>

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - NOVEMBER 17: Quarterback Anthony Richardson #5 of the Indianapolis Colts celebrates a fourth quarter touchdown against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium on November 17, 2024 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29081278/related

Colts' Richardson grateful to be back in action: 'Still here for my guys'

Georgia running back Trevor Etienne was downgraded to out for Saturday's game against Tennessee, ...

<p>Georgia running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/172319" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/172319">Trevor Etienne</a> was downgraded to out for Saturday's game against Tennessee, according to the SEC availability report.</p><p>Etienne sustained an upper-body injury against Florida on Nov. 2 and didn't return to the game. The 20-year-old played in Georgia's next game against Ole Miss, but only managed 24 rushing yards in the 28-10 loss.</p><p>Etienne currently leads Georgia with seven touchdowns and 477 rushing yards. True freshman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/203208" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/203208">Nate Frazier</a> is Georgia's only running back not on the injury report, with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/170175" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/170175">Cash Jones</a> also listed as questionable for Saturday's game. Frazier has three touchdowns and 333 rushing yards on the season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>No. 11 Georgia will look to upend sixth-ranked Tennessee on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. ET.</p>

OXFORD, MISSISSIPPI - NOVEMBER 09: Trevor Etienne #1 of the Georgia Bulldogs warms up before the game against the Mississippi Rebels at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium on November 09, 2024 in Oxford, Mississippi.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29032657/related

Georgia's Etienne out vs. Tennessee

Buffalo Bills wide receiver Amari Cooper is hopeful he can return for Sunday's game against the K...

<p>Buffalo Bills wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/60608" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/60608">Amari Cooper</a> is hopeful he can return for Sunday's game against the Kansas City Chiefs, he told reporters including <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/42392676/bills-wr-amari-cooper-optimistic-returning-vs-chiefs">ESPN's Alaina Getzenberg</a>.</p><p>"Definitely feeling better. Definitely more comfortable," Cooper said Thursday. "So, just ready to play football again." </p><p>Cooper injured his wrist Oct. 27 when the Bills played the Seattle Seahawks. He missed Buffalo's next two wins over the Miami Dolphins and the Indianapolis Colts. Cooper was limited in practice for the past two days and is currently wearing a cast.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The wide receiver said he'll be playing with the cast and needs to "get used to catching the ball with it."</p><p>Cooper was traded to Buffalo from the Cleveland Browns on Oct. 15 and made his team debut against the Tennessee Titans five days later. Cooper had four receptions for 66 yards and scored his first touchdown with the squad in a 34-10 thrashing.</p><p>The 8-2 Bills will look to give the Chiefs their first loss Sunday at 4:25 p.m. ET.</p>

ORCHARD PARK, NEW YORK - OCTOBER 20: Amari Cooper #18 of the Buffalo Bills walks off the field after a game against the Tennessee Titans at Highmark Stadium on October 20, 2024 in Orchard Park, New York.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29032164/related

Bills' Cooper hoping to return vs. Chiefs

Lamar Jackson is determined to get past the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Baltimore Ravens' AFC North ...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97162" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97162">Lamar Jackson</a> is determined to get past the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Baltimore Ravens' AFC North rival who've given him problems in the past.</p><p>"I don't know what it is, man," Jackson <a href="https://www.baltimoreravens.com/news/lamar-jackson-pittsburgh-problems-week-11-ravens-steelers">said to reporters</a> Wednesday. "I believe last year we were supposed to have them, but things just didn't go our way. The football gods just wasn't on our side."</p><p>The Ravens are 1-3 against the Steelers when Jackson starts and are gearing up to face Pittsburgh on Sunday for the first time this season. Jackson's thrown four touchdowns and seven picks in the rivalry. He's also been sacked 20 times.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 27-year-old last beat the Steelers in overtime in October 2019.</p><p>Jackson is looking to build on another MVP-caliber season. He has 2,669 passing yards for 24 touchdowns with only two interceptions in 10 games. The Ravens' offense is first in the league in points (31.8), rushing yards (182.6), and total yards (449.6) per game.</p><p>"It's a whole other year, it's a new year, and I'm looking forward to the game," Jackson said.</p><p>The Steelers and the Ravens face off Sunday and meet again Dec. 21.</p>

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - OCTOBER 08: Lamar Jackson #8 of the Baltimore Ravens attempts a pass while pressured by Cole Holcomb #55 of the Pittsburgh Steelers during the second quarter at Acrisure Stadium on October 08, 2023 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29024482/related

Lamar eager to improve 1-3 record vs. Steelers: 'It's a new year'

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson was thankful to be benched for the past two gam...

<p>Indianapolis Colts quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188125" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188125">Anthony Richardson</a> was thankful to be benched for the past two games in favor of backup <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/2945" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/2945">Joe Flacco</a>, he told reporters Wednesday.</p><p>"I feel like these past two weeks have opened my eyes and allowed me to take a deeper dive into myself and see what I'm made of," Richardson said, <a href="https://x.com/HolderStephen/status/1856747115990442424">according to ESPN's Stephen Holder</a>.</p><p>Coach <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3127464" href="https://thescore.com/news/3127464">Shane Steichen announced</a> Wednesday that Richardson will return as the Colts' starter for the remainder of the season. The 22-year-old was benched for the past two games, losses to the Bills and Vikings.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Just sitting on the sideline helped me to look and see the certain things I could correct about myself. I'm thankful for these past two weeks and I'm low-key glad they happened," Richardson added.</p><p>The second-year QB's struggled to spark the Colts' offense, throwing four touchdowns and seven interceptions in six games. Flacco threw two touchdowns and four interceptions in his past two starts.</p><p>Richardson said he's been focused on sacrificing for his teammates while he's been on the sideline.</p><p>"The guys ask me to do certain things, even if I don't feel like doing them, I gotta do it because it's sacrificing," he explained to <a href="https://x.com/RomeovilleKid/status/1856756207546958288">The Athletics' James Boyd</a>. "As a pro, you feel like, 'I'm doing my work, I'm getting it done, that's enough.' But it's never enough, especially not for vets. They feel like if they gotta do the extra work, you gotta do it, too."</p><p>Indianapolis is 4-6 and faces the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium on Sunday.</p>

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - NOVEMBER 03: Anthony Richardson #5 of the Indianapolis Colts looks on prior to the start of the game against the Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium on November 03, 2024 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Vikings defeated the Colts 21-13.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29021939/related

Richardson 'low-key glad' to be benched for past 2 games

Denver Broncos assistant head coach Mike Westhoff stepped down from his post Tuesday, according t...

<p>Denver Broncos assistant head coach Mike Westhoff stepped down from his post Tuesday, according to <a href="https://x.com/tompelissero/status/1856497223959183851?s=46">NFL Network's Tom Pelissero</a>.</p><p>The 76-year-old reportedly experienced vision-related problems last week. He underwent testing Monday, including an MRI, Pelissero notes.</p><p>Westhoff decided to step down after he consulted with doctors and had several conversations with head coach Sean Payton.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"It's not easy to make this decision, but this was a wake-up call that I needed to put my health first," Westhoff said in a statement. "I'm grateful to Sean for giving me the opportunity to contribute to a first-class organization and wish the Broncos the very best."</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">I want to thank everyone for the well wishes. I want to assure you I’m ok, my body gave me a warning this week and I had to listen and put my health first. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BroncosCountry?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BroncosCountry</a> is amazing..thank you!</p>— Mike Westhoff (@STCoachMike) <a href="https://twitter.com/STCoachMike/status/1856734783868752214?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Westhoff came out of retirement to join Payton's staff in February 2023. He'd previously worked with Payton as the Saints' special teams coach from 2017-18.</p><p>Westhoff's NFL coaching career started in 1982 when he was the offensive line, tight ends, and special teams coach for the Indianapolis Colts. He spent most of his career as a special teams coach for the Miami Dolphins and New York Jets.</p><p>"He's a fantastic teacher," Payton said last season, per the <a href="https://www.denverpost.com/2024/11/12/mike-westhoff-broncos-special-teams-steps-down/">Denver Post's Ryan McFadden and Parker Gabriel</a>. "I've said it before, if there was a Hall of Fame of special teams coaches, it would start with him."</p>

DENVER, CO - AUGUST 18: Detailed view of a Denver Broncos helmet prior to an NFL football game between the Green Bay Packers and the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High on August 18, 2024 in Denver, CO.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29014590/related

Broncos assistant head coach steps down for health reasons

Aaron Rodgers was critical of NFL owners and fans after Chicago Bears offensive coordinator Shane...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/747" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/747">Aaron Rodgers</a> was critical of NFL owners and fans after Chicago Bears offensive coordinator <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3126428" href="https://thescore.com/news/3126428">Shane Waldron was fired</a> Tuesday.</p><p>"Unfortunately what happens - and I really mean this - is a lot of it is 'rinse and repeat' under the guise of brand-new scheme, brand-new approach. And that's the way the league is going too often," Rodgers <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHrn4larYGA">said on "The Pat McAfee Show</a>."</p><p>"The consensus for all fans is, 'If we're not winning now, then everybody needs to get the hell out,'" he added.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 40-year-old <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/4" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/4">New York Jets</a> quarterback called on team owners across the league to "come out and make strong statements" to combat the backlash from fans and critics.</p><p>Chicago fired Waldron following the Bears' second straight game without a touchdown. Waldron, 45, was hired in January after he spent three seasons as the Seahawks' offensive coordinator.</p><p>"I would continue to preach patience for players and coaches," Rodgers explained. "Too often the opinions of - whether it's the social media world or the incredible experts out there talking about football - actually impacts a billion-dollar organization."</p><p>The Jets fired their head coach Robert Saleh in October. He was dismissed after the club's Week 5 loss to the Vikings in London. The 45-year-old had been head coach since 2021, posting a 20-36 record with no postseason appearances.</p><p>Both the Bears and Jets are near the bottom of their conferences, with records of 4-5 and 3-7 respectively. The Bears host the Packers and the Jets host the Colts in Week 11.</p>

GLENDALE, ARIZONA - NOVEMBER 10: Aaron Rodgers #8 of the New York Jets looks on from the sideline in the second quarter against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium on November 10, 2024 in Glendale, Arizona.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29014589/related

Rodgers: NFL coaches aren't being given enough rope

New York Giants general manager Joe Schoen still believes the team is "not far off" from finding ...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/18" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/18">New York Giants</a> general manager Joe Schoen still believes the team is "not far off" from finding on-field success in the near future.</p><p>"There is a young nucleus of players and some veterans that are going to be together, and we're in a position where we're going to have some continuity," <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tDregYBS1v4">he told reporters Tuesday</a>. "We're going to look for solutions and find ways to make plays in critical parts of the game where we can get over the hump when it matters most, and we're not that far off."</p><p>The Giants are 2-8 this season and 1-5 in one-score games. They're last in the league in points per game (15.6) and 24th in passing yards per contest (189.8).</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>However, Schoen believes the team already has some future difference-makers in rookies Malik Nabers, Theo Johnson, and Tyrone Tracy.</p><p>"There are some young pieces in place in terms of the foundation, that we're going to continue to build on," he said. "Another year of free agency and another draft, we're not far off."</p><p>Schoen didn't say whether Daniel Jones will be a piece to build with. The GM said it'd be "a football decision" to start Jones again, but he added that he wouldn't have done anything differently in his previous quarterback search. Jones signed a four-year, $160-million extension with the Giants in March 2023.</p><p>Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll received a vote of confidence from owner John Mara when he <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3106993" href="https://thescore.com/news/3106993">told reporters in October</a> that he's planning on keeping the pair for 2025.</p><p>New York is currently in its bye week. The Giants will look to snap their five-game losing streak against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Nov. 24.</p>

ORCHARD PARK, NEW YORK - OCTOBER 15: Director of Coaching Operations Laura Young and general manager Joe Schoen of the New York Giants walk on the field prior to a game against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium on October 15, 2023 in Orchard Park, New York.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29009381/related

Schoen: Giants are 'not far off' from success

Missouri quarterback Brady Cook won't play Saturday versus Oklahoma, sources told ESPN's Pete Tha...

<p>Missouri quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/83748" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/83748">Brady Cook</a> won't play Saturday versus Oklahoma, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/42274657/sources-missouri-brady-cook-unlikely-play-vs-oklahoma">ESPN's Pete Thamel</a>.</p><p>Cook sustained injuries in Missouri's previous two games, suffering an ankle injury while leading his team over Auburn on Oct. 19 and a wrist ailment in an Oct. 26 defeat to Alabama.</p><p>Backup quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/149372" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/149372">Drew Pyne</a> is expected to start in Cook's absence. Pyne, who previously started at Notre Dame and Arizona State, relieved Cook in the second half of the Alabama game, throwing three interceptions in the Tigers' shutout loss.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Cook has started the season strong, passing for 1,575 yards and seven touchdowns in his second year as Missouri's starter. The program sits at No. 24 in the College Football Playoff rankings with a 6-2 record.</p>

COLUMBIA, MO - SEPTEMBER 21: Missouri Tigers quarterback Brady Cook (12) looks to the sidelines in the third quarter of an SEC football game between the Vanderbilt Commodores and Missouri Tigers on September 21, 2024 at Memorial Stadium in Columbia, MO.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28959128/related

Report: Missouri's Cook won't play vs. Oklahoma

Cincinnati Bengals head coach Zac Taylor is vowing to stick up for his quarterback after two crit...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/9" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/9">Cincinnati Bengals</a> head coach Zac Taylor is vowing to stick up for his quarterback after two critical missed penalties on Thursday Night Football.</p><p>"I've got to fight harder for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97638" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97638">Joe (Burrow</a>) to get some of that," Taylor told reporters Friday, including <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/42271986/bengals-coach-advocate-potential-late-hits-joe-burrow">ESPN's Ben Baby</a>. "He doesn't want to (ask for penalties). He doesn't want to disrupt from his flow in the game."</p><p>He added: "You don't want to lose him on a (hit) that's well after the play's over."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Officials twice missed Burrow getting hit in the facemask on the Bengals' final possession against the Baltimore Ravens, including on Cincinnati's failed two-point conversion late in the fourth quarter. Referees also missed a potential defensive holding call on the play as tight end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/127048" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/127048">Tanner Hudson</a> attempted to catch the pass.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Joe Burrow gets hit in the facemask again and the refs don't throw a flag. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CINvsBAL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CINvsBAL</a> <a href="https://t.co/t6OJoG5ptw">pic.twitter.com/t6OJoG5ptw</a></p>— Rate the Refs App (@Rate_the_Refs) <a href="https://twitter.com/Rate_the_Refs/status/1854744754816532684?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 8, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"We knew what situation we were in. You're not getting those calls in that situation for the most part," Burrow told reporters postgame, including <a href="http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/bengals-joe-burrow-on-missed-ravens-penalties-on-two-point-try-ive-never-really-gotten-those-calls/#:~:text=And%20after%20Burrow%20threw%20the,expect%20to%20get%20those%20calls.">CBS' Jeff Kerr</a>.</p><p>Burrow was sacked three times and hit another 13 during the 35-34 loss. He still managed four touchdowns, 428 passing yards, and zero interceptions.</p><p>The 4-6 Bengals will face the Los Angeles Chargers next week during Sunday Night Football.</p>

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - NOVEMBER 07: Joe Burrow #9 of the Cincinnati Bengals is hit as he attempts a pass by Odafe Oweh #99 of the Baltimore Ravens during the first quarter at M&T Bank Stadium on November 07, 2024 in Baltimore, Maryland.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28958241/related

Taylor vows to advocate for Burrow after 2 missed penalties on TNF

Washington Commanders running back Brian Robinson has been ruled out for Sunday's game against th...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/20" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/20">Washington Commanders</a> running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174076" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174076">Brian Robinson</a> has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Pittsburgh Steelers with a hamstring injury, the team announced Friday.</p><p>Robinson, 25, has now missed two straight games with the ailment. He was limited in practice Wednesday and Thursday but didn't practice Friday.</p><p>Robinson was a game-time decision in Washington's Week 9 victory over the New York Giants but didn't play after participating in the pregame workout. He previously missed Week 6 with a knee injury.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Robinson has had a successful first half of the season. He leads the Commanders with six rushing touchdowns and 461 rushing yards. Veteran running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/81875" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/81875">Austin Ekeler</a> will look to make his second straight start after registering one touchdown and 42 rushing yards versus the Giants.</p>

CINCINNATI, OH - SEPTEMBER 23: Washington Commanders running back Brian Robinson Jr. (8) carries the ball during the game against the Washington Commanders and the Cincinnati Bengals on September 23, 2024, at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati, OH.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28956604/related

Commanders' Robinson to miss 2nd straight game with hamstring injury

Cleveland Browns general manager Andrew Berry fully supports head coach Kevin Stefanski despite t...

<p>Cleveland Browns general manager Andrew Berry fully supports head coach Kevin Stefanski despite the team's poor performance.</p><p>"Kevin is an outstanding coach, and he is absolutely part of the solution," Berry told reporters, including <a href="https://x.com/MaryKayCabot/status/1854186903651676464">Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com</a>. </p><p>Stefanski has been Cleveland's head coach since 2020. In his first year on the sideline, the 42-year-old led the Browns to their first winning season in 13 years and captured his first NFL Coach of the Year title, winning his second the following year. Stefanski and Berry signed contract extensions in June.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"There are 13 coaches in the history of the sport to win a Coach of the Year award multiple times," Berry said. "And he's the second-fastest to do it."</p><p>The Browns are off to a 2-7 start and sit last in the AFC North. Cleveland's offense is one of the worst in the NFL this season, ranked 28th in both points per game and passing yards and last in third-down conversions. </p><p>Berry also noted that a potential roster teardown would be looked at after the season.</p><p>"Our fans aren't happy. We're not happy internally," he said in a press conference. "The first nine games, we haven't played to an acceptable level."</p><p>After their bye week, the Browns head to Louisiana to play the New Orleans Saints on Nov. 17.</p>

BEREA, OHIO - MAY 31: Executive vice president, football operations & general manager Andrew Berry of the Cleveland Browns (L) talks with head coach Kevin Stefanski during the Cleveland Browns OTAs at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus on May 31, 2023 in Berea, Ohio.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28936112/related

Browns GM: Stefanski is 'part of the solution'

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes had nothing but praise for DeAndre Hopkins after t...

<p>Kansas City Chiefs quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/89514" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/89514">Patrick Mahomes</a> had nothing but praise for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/46606" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/46606">DeAndre Hopkins</a> after the wide receiver's two-touchdown performance in Monday night's overtime win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.</p><p>"He's so good at winning one-on-one, and so to be able to have him down in the red zone, third-down situations, he does a good job of filling out and finding those windows kind of like Travis (Kelce) does," Mahomes said, according to <a href="https://www.nfl.com/news/patrick-mahomes-on-new-chiefs-teammate-deandre-hopkins-after-two-touchdown-night-he-ll-get-even-better?campaign=Twitter_atn">NFL.com's Grant Gordon</a>. "As he figures out the offense, he'll get even better."</p><p>Hopkins recorded eight receptions for 86 yards and two touchdowns against Tampa Bay, his second game since joining the Chiefs in a trade from the Tennessee Titans. His multi-score game was his first since Week 7 of the 2023 season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Hopkins set up his first TD of the night by reeling in an improbable 35-yard catch from Mahomes in triple coverage.</p><p>"To have a guy like that that can go up and make that catch in a crowd of defenders is a special type of player," Mahomes said.</p><p>Hopkins is a five-time Pro Bowler and a three-time first-team All-Pro. He was acquired from Tennessee on Oct. 24 for a 2025 conditional fifth-round pick. Hopkins' debut with the Chiefs came three days later against the Las Vegas Raiders, where he caught two passes for 29 yards.</p><p>The 32-year-old has quickly become the Chiefs' top receiver after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188109" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188109">Rashee Rice</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/114847" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/114847">Marquise Brown</a> were placed on injured reserve.</p><p>"Me just picking (Mahomes') brain, asking him what he likes, and when I'm not out there, taking the rep, I'm always learning and just seeing how he does things," Hopkins said.</p><p>The Chiefs will look to keep their undefeated streak going on Sunday against the Denver Broncos.</p>

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - NOVEMBER 4: DeAndre Hopkins #8 of the Kansas City Chiefs celebrates with his teammate Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs after scoring a touchdown during an NFL Football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium on November 04, 2024 in Kansas City, Missouri.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28927550/related

Mahomes praises Hopkins after OT win: He's 'a special type of player' 

Cincinnati Bengals head coach Zac Taylor announced Monday that running back Zack Moss will be out...

<p>Cincinnati Bengals head coach Zac Taylor announced Monday that running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/105231" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/105231">Zack Moss</a> will be out indefinitely with a neck injury, according to <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/1853500128080060579">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>.</p><p>The veteran rusher had previously suffered an injury in practice that left him sidelined for the Bengals' Week 9 win over the Las Vegas Raiders. The team is seeking more information this week, according to <a href="https://x.com/Ben_Baby/status/1853498020748235013">ESPN's Ben Baby</a>, and has not placed Moss on injured reserve yet.</p><p>Cincinnati will likely rely on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188276" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188276">Chase Brown</a> again to be its primary running back.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Moss signed a two-year, $8-million contract with the Bengals last offseason. The 26-year-old was named the starting running back and played in the first eight games of the season, accounting for 242 rushing yards and two touchdowns.</p><p>The Bengals play their next game Thursday against the Baltimore Ravens.</p>

CLEVELAND, OHIO - OCTOBER 20: Running back Zack Moss #31 of the Cincinnati Bengals runs during the third quarter against the Cleveland Browns at Cleveland Browns Stadium on October 20, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28912919/related

Bengals' Moss out indefinitely with neck injury

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith took full responsibility after Sunday's overtime loss to ...

<p>Seattle Seahawks quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/13368" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/13368">Geno Smith</a> took full responsibility after Sunday's overtime loss to the division-rival Los Angeles Rams.</p><p>"When my teammates play the way they played today and to give us a shot to win the game, I've got to make sure we do," Smith said, according to <a href="https://www.seahawks.com/news/geno-smith-apologizes-for-mistakes-in-seahawks-loss-vows-i-m-going-to-step-it-up">team reporter John Boyle</a>. "The things I did today, mistakes that I made, they affected us negatively and really cost us the game today.</p><p>"I really feel like I let everybody down today. I really do."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Smith threw three picks in Sunday's defeat. Rams safety <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199998" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199998">Kamren Kinchens</a> caught two, including a 103-yard go-ahead pick-6, which was the longest play in the NFL this season.</p><p>"I was trying to throw it out of bounds in the back of the end zone," Smith explained. "There's no excuses to be made. I can throw that away, get it out sooner."</p><p>Smith has been uncharacteristically turnover-prone to start the season, throwing 10 interceptions in eight games. The 34-year-old only threw 11 picks in 17 games and nine in 15 contests in his 2022 and 2023 Pro Bowl campaigns, respectively. He's now tied with the Green Bay Packers' <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/104659" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/104659">Jordan Love</a> for the most interceptions through Week 9.</p><p>"I've been in this league long enough. I've seen a lot," Smith said. "But as long as we've got a shot, as long as I've got a shot, I'll keep fighting. That's the way I am. That's how I'm wired."</p><p>Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald stood by his QB's side despite the poor performance.</p><p>"He made some big-time plays for us. We've got to protect him better," Macdonald said. "We've got to make smarter decisions in that way. We've got to finish drives. ... We have to be better if we're going to win."</p><p>The Seahawks, who are now under .500 for the first time this season, are entering their bye week. They will face another NFC West rival, the San Francisco 49ers, on Nov. 17.</p>

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - NOVEMBER 03: Quarterback Geno Smith #7 of the Seattle Seahawks leaves the field after losing to the Los Angeles Rams 26-20 at Lumen Field on November 03, 2024 in Seattle, Washington.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28911250/related

Geno Smith apologizes for OT loss: 'I let everybody down'

We offer our takeaways following each race weekend this year and continue the 2024 schedule with ...

<p><em>We offer our takeaways following each race weekend this year and continue the 2024 schedule with the Mexican Grand Prix.</em></p><h3>Moments that decided the race 👀</h3><p><strong>Ferrari's late resurgence </strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752149/cropped_GettyImages-2181416802.jpg?ts=1730119679" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752149/w220xh124_GettyImages-2181416802.jpg?ts=1730119679 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752149/w320xh180_GettyImages-2181416802.jpg?ts=1730119679 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752149/w640xh360_GettyImages-2181416802.jpg?ts=1730119679 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752149/w768xh432_GettyImages-2181416802.jpg?ts=1730119679 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752149/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2181416802.jpg?ts=1730119679 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Chris Graythen / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Ferrari is the winner of back-to-back races for the first time in over two years following Carlos Sainz's superb drive in Mexico.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Sainz was clinical all weekend. After getting pole position, his only slip-up en route to victory was a brief Lap 1 lead loss to Max Verstappen. The Spaniard's excellence was the latest proof that Ferrari isn't simply a sneaky underdog but a genuine threat.</p><p>With Sainz's impressive weekend and another podium finish by Charles Leclerc, the legendary outfit jumped Red Bull in the standings and now trail McLaren by only 29 points with four races to go.</p><p>The opportunity to return the constructors' title back to Maranello for the first time since 2008 is very much there.</p><p>Sainz's triumph was Ferrari's third victory since Formula 1 returned from the summer break in Zandvoort. Only McLaren has as many in that span. But since Leclerc's emotional win in Monza, no constructor has scored more points than Ferrari.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Points since Monza" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-SfiJc" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/SfiJc/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="286" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>The constructors' championship is a fight fought by two drivers and an entire operation. With Oscar Piastri struggling and Sergio Perez mired in what feels like a never-ending slump, Ferrari has the most in-form driver pairing on the grid. The Prancing Horse's engineers are also bringing forward a lot of pace for Ferrari's SF-24, which collected 96 of a possible 103 points over the last two race weekends.</p><p>Momentum is on Ferrari's side, and with the duel between Verstappen and Norris heating up in the drivers' championship, the Scuderia look to be on pace to snatch the constructors' title from McLaren.</p><p><strong>Verstappen crosses the line in fight with Norris</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752150/cropped_GettyImages-2181394130.jpg?ts=1730119818" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752150/w220xh124_GettyImages-2181394130.jpg?ts=1730119818 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752150/w320xh180_GettyImages-2181394130.jpg?ts=1730119818 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752150/w640xh360_GettyImages-2181394130.jpg?ts=1730119818 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752150/w768xh432_GettyImages-2181394130.jpg?ts=1730119818 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752150/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2181394130.jpg?ts=1730119818 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jared C. Tilton / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Formula 1 was reminded of the lengths to which Verstappen will go to maintain his loosening grip on the drivers' title. Another tussle with Norris, which began at Turn 4 and then culminated in a dangerous divebomb off the track into Turn 7, saw Verstappen go over the limit, and he was rightfully penalized.</p><p>The stewards laid not one, but two 10-second penalties on the reigning world champion, effectively removing him from podium contention. For most, it felt like deja vu, a reminder of 2021, when Verstappen employed an uncompromising yield-or-crash mentality on Lewis Hamilton in the season's final races.</p><p>Verstappen is a driver who is willing to test the limit, even if it means he risks crossing the line. The issue for Formula 1, its stewards, and other drivers - especially Norris - is it keeps working in Verstappen's favor.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The battle for the title reaches BOILING POINT 🔥🥵<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/F1?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#F1</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MexicoGP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MexicoGP</a> <a href="https://t.co/BnvtHTxaQO">pic.twitter.com/BnvtHTxaQO</a></p>— Formula 1 (@F1) <a href="https://twitter.com/F1/status/1850671370809794578?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Even though the three-time world champion was hit with 20 seconds worth of penalties and was outscored by 10 points by Norris, who finished second, it may not have been much of a loss at all. The McLaren pilot finished less than five seconds behind Sainz, who won the race. That easily could have been a win if he hadn't been run off the road by Verstappen and forced to hang behind him until Red Bull called him into the pits. Leclerc acknowledged this after the race.</p><p>"Lando was flying, and I think as a team, we've been pretty lucky that whatever happened with Max and Lando at the beginning of the race, that slowed him down massively, and his second stint was very, very impressive," Leclerc told media.</p><p>Norris described his encounter with Verstappen as "not fair" and said it wasn't "clean racing." The stewards agreed. But it seems like Verstappen doesn't view it as fair or unfair. For him, it's simply what he has to do. In his own words, he's "being put into those kind of positions" due to the RB20's lack of pace.</p><p>In the end, Verstappen lost time, leaving him sixth, but it was Norris who ultimately lost more. His 10-point gain on the drivers' champion was short of what he needs to become the new king of F1. </p><p>Even when the Dutch pilot appears to be cornered, he finds a way.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">With a 47-point deficit, Lando Norris now needs to outscore Max Verstappen by 12 points per race weekend to win the drivers’ championship by 1 point.<br><br>Norris has only outscored Max by that much in 1 of the 20 races so far this season: Australia when Max DNFed.</p>— Daniel Valente 🏎️ (@F1GuyDan) <a href="https://twitter.com/F1GuyDan/status/1850655800613572631?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Driver of the Day 🙌</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752148/cropped_GettyImages-2180820016.jpg?ts=1730119577" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752148/w220xh124_GettyImages-2180820016.jpg?ts=1730119577 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752148/w320xh180_GettyImages-2180820016.jpg?ts=1730119577 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752148/w640xh360_GettyImages-2180820016.jpg?ts=1730119577 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752148/w768xh432_GettyImages-2180820016.jpg?ts=1730119577 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752148/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2180820016.jpg?ts=1730119577 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NurPhoto / NurPhoto / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Carlos Sainz</strong>: The smooth operator was in cruise control. After an incredible qualifying session, Sainz started from pole position. He was briefly taken over by Verstappen, but it wasn’t for long. Sainz passed the Dutchman on Lap 9 and sailed out of DRS zone. From there, the Spaniard was utterly dominant and had no problem holding off Leclerc and Norris. His victory and Leclerc’s podium finish helped push Ferrari up to second in the constructor’s championship. It's the first time in over 30 years that the squad finished atop the podium in Mexico. Sainz wants to leave Ferrari on a high note, and what sweeter way to do so than with his first multi-win season?</p><h3>What were they thinking? 🤔</h3><p>Liam Lawson is driving to potentially replace Perez at Red Bull, and the two racers were involved in a scrappy incident in Mexico.</p><p>Perez picked up damage to his car after the pair clashed, and the Mexican driver called Lawson an "idiot" over team radio.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">It might be Checo's home race...<br><br>But Liam Lawson wasn't about to give up P10 without getting his elbows out! 👀<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/F1?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#F1</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MexicoGP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MexicoGP</a> <a href="https://t.co/ru42ZLwper">pic.twitter.com/ru42ZLwper</a></p>— Formula 1 (@F1) <a href="https://twitter.com/F1/status/1850705290674524407?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Lawson later responded by flipping off Perez. </p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Liam Lawson overtaking Checo and giving the middle finger... <a href="https://t.co/GlinuhoHTi">pic.twitter.com/GlinuhoHTi</a></p>— RBR Daily (@RBR_Daily) <a href="https://twitter.com/RBR_Daily/status/1850648581159444595?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"Coming together with Lawson was very unfortunate," Perez said following the race. "I don't get it. He just went for the incident, damaging both our races. </p><p>"It was an incident that was totally avoidable. There was no need. It was Lap 11 and we were in a great position. I had the corner and he went off the track completely and just went straight. I was petrified to see him there and at that point it was too late."</p><p>The stewards decided to not hand out any penalties, and Lawson finished one place ahead of Perez. </p><h3>They said what? 🗣️</h3><p><strong>McLaren CEO Zak Brown on Verstappen's 20-second penalty:</strong> "It's getting a bit ridiculous. I applaud the FIA stewards. Enough's enough. Let's just have some good clean racing moving forward."</p><p><strong>Red Bull team principal Christian Horner on Verstappen's incident with Norris:</strong> "Max didn't leave the track at Turn 4 and at (Turn) 7. Lando opened the door very late, both ran off there. I think we're going to get into dangerous territory. At what point is a divebomb going to be OK? Really, the FIA and the drivers need to sit down and decide what is acceptable and what isn't. I thought two 10-second (penalties) was a bit harsh."</p><p><strong>Verstappen on his clash with Norris:</strong> "The problem is, when you're slower, you're being put in those types of positions, and I'm not going to give up easily. At the end of the day, it's not about agreeing or disagreeing about the penalties - 20 seconds is quite a lot - the biggest problem of today is the race pace is really not good. Even without those penalties, we had no chance at all to fight up front."</p><p><strong>Verstappen on whether he's worried about losing the drivers' championship:</strong> "I'm not worried. This was just a really bad day for us."</p><p><strong>Perez when asked if this will be his last Mexican GP in F1: </strong>"Zero (doubt). I'll be here next year and I will try to go for the victory because that is my dream."</p><p><strong>Hamilton on optimism with Mercedes to end the season:</strong> "Really good to get fourth and fifth. ... It was a really insightful and informative race. I could feel exactly where the car was working and not. Good points, good data from both of us, and hopefully put us in a better position next race."</p><h3>What's next?</h3><p>The third leg of F1's triple-header takes place Nov. 3 at 12 p.m. ET in Sao Paulo with the Brazilian GP.</p><p>The Interlagos Circuit saw three different winners the last three seasons - Verstappen in 2023, George Russell in 2022, and Lewis Hamilton in 2021.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Drivers' standings" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-tQYZV" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/tQYZV/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="1092" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Constructors' standings" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-22eGA" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/22eGA/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="569" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28824033/related

Mexican GP takeaways: Sainz spoils party as Max, Lando get scrappy

<p><em>We offer our takeaways following each race weekend this year and continue the 2024 schedule with the Hungarian GP.</em></p><h3>Moments that decided the race 👀</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742476/cropped_GettyImages-2167561106.jpg?ts=1724598806" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742476/w220xh124_GettyImages-2167561106.jpg?ts=1724598806 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742476/w320xh180_GettyImages-2167561106.jpg?ts=1724598806 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742476/w640xh360_GettyImages-2167561106.jpg?ts=1724598806 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742476/w768xh432_GettyImages-2167561106.jpg?ts=1724598806 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742476/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2167561106.jpg?ts=1724598806 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">SIMON WOHLFAHRT / AFP / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>McLaren sends message to Red Bull, Verstappen</strong></p><p>McLaren went into Max Verstappen's backyard and made a gigantic statement.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>In the first race back since the summer break, Lando Norris didn't just beat his championship rival; he obliterated him. Norris, who shared the front row with Verstappen, took pole by a whopping 0.356 of a second and then stormed to the largest margin of victory all season with a 22.8-second advantage.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Race</th>
<th>Winner</th>
<th>P2</th>
<th>Gap</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Dutch GP</td>
<td> Lando Norris</td>
<td> Max Verstappen</td>
<td> 22.896s</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bahrain GP</td>
<td> Max Verstappen</td>
<td> Sergio Perez</td>
<td> 22.457s</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Chinese GP</td>
<td> Max Verstappen</td>
<td> Lando Norris</td>
<td> 13.773s</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>It's another incredible start for McLaren. The team began the season with Norris finishing over 48 seconds behind Verstappen in Bahrain. So, how did McLaren and Norris get here?</p><p>Of course, McLaren's Miami upgrade package unlocked a new ceiling for the car. In the races since, it's been no worse than slightly below the Red Bull and as good as the car of the field. But in Zandvoort, the McLaren looked like it had taken another massive step, which might be thanks to another huge performance package and a Red Bull slip-up.</p><p>McLaren brought four performance upgrades, with changes to its front brake scoop, front suspension, rear suspension, and floor edge. It also brought circuit-specific updates to the rear and beam wings. The result was a massacre.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Race Pace</th>
<th>Max Verstappen</th>
<th>Lando Norris</th>
<th>Difference</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Overall</td>
<td>01:15.566</td>
<td>1:15.221</td>
<td> +0.345</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>First Stint (Mediums)</td>
<td>01:16.367</td>
<td>1:16.089</td>
<td> +0.278</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Second Stint (Hards)</td>
<td>01:15.110</td>
<td>1:14.696</td>
<td> +0.414</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>McLaren's chief designer, Rob Marshall, called the upgrades "more risky." Ultimately, the risk didn't just turn into a reward; it may have flipped the championship on its head. With nine races remaining, McLaren is only 30 points behind Red Bull in the constructors' standings, while Norris is 70 points from Verstappen in the drivers' standings. Game on.</p><p><strong>Red Bull needs answers</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742194/cropped_GettyImages-2167128951.jpg?ts=1724366928" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742194/w220xh124_GettyImages-2167128951.jpg?ts=1724366928 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742194/w320xh180_GettyImages-2167128951.jpg?ts=1724366928 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742194/w640xh360_GettyImages-2167128951.jpg?ts=1724366928 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742194/w768xh432_GettyImages-2167128951.jpg?ts=1724366928 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742194/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2167128951.jpg?ts=1724366928 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NurPhoto / NurPhoto / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>A beatdown like the one McLaren served Red Bull at the Dutch Grand Prix has been brewing for a long time.</p><p>Red Bull's RB20 hasn't appeared as dominant as it initially did in quite some time. Verstappen's natural ability, the team's savvy strategy, and McLaren's execution errors hid RB20's recent weaknesses. But there was nowhere to hide in Zandvoort.</p><p>The warning signs were there before Norris took the checkered flag 22.8 seconds ahead of Verstappen. Previous advantages like tire preservation seemingly evaporated overnight after what started as issues with bumps and curbs. Red Bull admitted in Zandvoort that it might have gone down the wrong development path, which in Formula 1 is signaling blood in the water to the likes of McLaren.</p><p>Verstappen <a href="https://x.com/ErikvHaren/status/1827382873814384666">reportedly</a> drove with an old floor specification this weekend. As McLaren brings upgrades to continue progressing, Red Bull is going backward to figure out where it went wrong.</p><p>The Dutch national anthem has been put on pause until Red Bull finds answers to its RB20 problems and develops solutions to fix those issues. Considering McLaren's form, it may be a while until that happens.</p><h3>Driver of the Day 🙌</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742508/cropped_GettyImages-2167592387.jpg?ts=1724617894" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742508/w220xh124_GettyImages-2167592387.jpg?ts=1724617894 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742508/w320xh180_GettyImages-2167592387.jpg?ts=1724617894 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742508/w640xh360_GettyImages-2167592387.jpg?ts=1724617894 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742508/w768xh432_GettyImages-2167592387.jpg?ts=1724617894 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742508/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2167592387.jpg?ts=1724617894 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">SIMON WOHLFAHRT / AFP / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Charles Leclerc</strong>: It's not how you start, but how you finish. A disappointing qualification had Leclerc starting sixth for the Grand Prix and teammate Carlos Sainz starting 11th. The Monegasque driver wasn't quiet about his frustrations, saying it would take a "miracle" to be on the podium in Zandvoort. At lights out, Leclerc proved that his sheer skill, not a miracle, would put him on the podium. He jumped ahead of Perez immediately off the spot and undercut George Russell and Oscar Piastri to move into third. Leclerc also held off Piastri's lightning-fast McLaren for the last 30 laps under constant pressure. Leclerc promised postrace that more upgrades would be available in Monza, and the Tifosi will cross their fingers for another Ferrari podium.</p><h3>They said what? 🗣️</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742364/cropped_GettyImages-2168212004.jpg?ts=1724508983" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742364/w220xh124_GettyImages-2168212004.jpg?ts=1724508983 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742364/w320xh180_GettyImages-2168212004.jpg?ts=1724508983 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742364/w640xh360_GettyImages-2168212004.jpg?ts=1724508983 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742364/w768xh432_GettyImages-2168212004.jpg?ts=1724508983 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742364/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2168212004.jpg?ts=1724508983 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Bryn Lennon - Formula 1 / Formula 1 / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Zak Brown on Norris' 22-second win:</strong> "It was a big gap. We knew we were fast all weekend, so I'm not shocked but pleasantly surprised by the size of the gap. Once Lando got in clean air, he controlled it easily. ... The upgrades clearly worked. I think we need to keep our feet on the ground."</p><p><strong>Norris on if he has the car to fight Verstappen for drivers' championship</strong>: "Honestly, I've had the car for quite a while - that's been obvious. The car's been phenomenal almost since Miami. I wouldn't say we've been the best since Miami, but on average, we have been. It's clear that we missed out on opportunities where we should have beat him and we didn't. That's in the past, and that's out of my control for now - we've reviewed those things. We've tried to take a step forward in a lot of areas, and a result like today proves that."</p><p><strong>Red Bull's Christian Horner on McLaren's dominant weekend:</strong> "We did everything we could, but you could see their pace was just in a different league - plenty of work to do. I think we learned a lot of lessons this weekend, which will be valuable. A solid drive from Checo. Time to digest what's happened here, damage limitation with P2, and time to bounce back in Monza. ... The pace that they had today, nothing's secure (in the standings). We've got a comfortable lead in the drivers' championship, but the constructors' is another chunk of points that has come off today. We're going to have to respond."</p><p><strong>Leclerc on podium finish:</strong> "Very, very surprised. I'm not very often happy with a P3, but I think with today's race, we can be extremely happy with the job we've done. On a very difficult weekend for the team, we've been struggling Friday until the race. In the race, we found more pace, executed the perfect strategy, we undercut two of our competitors, and we managed to keep them behind. A really strong race for the team. Really happy to start the second half like this."</p><p><strong>George Russell on Mercedes finishing 7th and 8th:</strong> "Strange how we can win three of the last four and be fighting in Montreal and all of these places and then suddenly finish 50 seconds behind the win today. We need to look into it. Today was a really odd one."</p><h3>What's next?</h3><p>F1 heads to Monza for the Italian GP on Sunday, Sept. 1 at 9 a.m. ET. </p><p>Verstappen has won each of the last two races at Monza, but the circuit has featured five different winners since 2018.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Constructors' standings" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Foiyc" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Foiyc/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="569" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Drivers' standings" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-qIQE4" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/qIQE4/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="998" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28156479/related

Dutch GP takeaways: McLaren legit threat to slumping Red Bull

It was a solid first half of the 2024 Formula One season, with seven different winners over 14 ra...

<p>It was a solid first half of the 2024 Formula One season, with seven different winners over 14 races. There should be more surprises and shocks in store for the final 10 events as the grid tightens further.</p><h3>Verstappen wins no more than 1 race</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741103/cropped_GettyImages-2162387665.jpg?ts=1723663326" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741103/w220xh124_GettyImages-2162387665.jpg?ts=1723663326 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741103/w320xh180_GettyImages-2162387665.jpg?ts=1723663326 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741103/w640xh360_GettyImages-2162387665.jpg?ts=1723663326 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741103/w768xh432_GettyImages-2162387665.jpg?ts=1723663326 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741103/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2162387665.jpg?ts=1723663326 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NurPhoto / NurPhoto / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Based on recent races prior to the summer break, McLaren has caught and surpassed Red Bull as the fastest team. Making matters worse, Mercedes also looks to have transformed into a legitimate team that can win races. That's bad news for Red Bull and Max Verstappen, who have seen their dominance turn into frustration with the RB20.</p><p>Verstappen has won just two of the last seven races after winning five of the first seven. If McLaren polishes up its strategy department, would it really be a surprise if the Dutch national anthem is barely heard again? Several unfavorable tracks - such as Baku, Singapore, and Las Vegas - don't help Verstappen's odds.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Ferrari wins another race</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741105/cropped_GettyImages-2154412755.jpg?ts=1723663441" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741105/w220xh124_GettyImages-2154412755.jpg?ts=1723663441 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741105/w320xh180_GettyImages-2154412755.jpg?ts=1723663441 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741105/w640xh360_GettyImages-2154412755.jpg?ts=1723663441 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741105/w768xh432_GettyImages-2154412755.jpg?ts=1723663441 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741105/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2154412755.jpg?ts=1723663441 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NurPhoto / NurPhoto / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>At the moment, Ferrari winning again seems far-fetched. The Scuderia have regressed and are positioned in no man's land as the fourth-fastest team, but don't count the Italian side out yet. While Ferrari struggles mightily on tracks with high-speed corners, there are also a number of races coming up where a resurgence is possible.</p><p>Monza - a track that favors engine power and straight-line speed - could bring some home-race optimism. Baku and Singapore have historically been strong circuits for Ferrari, and Charles Leclerc was in serious contention to win on the streets of Las Vegas last year. It hasn't been Ferrari's year (again), but the tea leaves foreshadow another victory for the legendary team.</p><h3>Lawson finishes season in F1 seat</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741106/cropped_GettyImages-2154600745.jpg?ts=1723663528" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741106/w220xh124_GettyImages-2154600745.jpg?ts=1723663528 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741106/w320xh180_GettyImages-2154600745.jpg?ts=1723663528 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741106/w640xh360_GettyImages-2154600745.jpg?ts=1723663528 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741106/w768xh432_GettyImages-2154600745.jpg?ts=1723663528 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741106/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2154600745.jpg?ts=1723663528 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Rudy Carezzevoli / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Red Bull elected to keep Sergio Perez over the summer break, citing tracks he has historically performed well at coming up. Perez has seen success at Monza, Baku, and Singapore, three of the next four races. But what if his struggles continue? There's a one-month gap between the Singapore Grand Prix on Sept. 22 and the US Grand Prix on Oct. 20. If Perez can't regain his form, perhaps Red Bull inserts Liam Lawson in during that time off to finish the year. After all, Helmut Marko said we'd have a clear idea of Lawson's future come September.</p><p>That's probably Lawson's easiest path to an F1 seat, but an insertion into RB to replace Daniel Ricciardo is another option. The senior team could pull the plug early if Ricciardo isn't deemed Red Bull-worthy yet. Either way, Lawson feels more than deserving of being somewhere on the grid.</p><h3>An 8th driver wins a Grand Prix</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741288/cropped_GettyImages-2164033996.jpg?ts=1723754834" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741288/w220xh124_GettyImages-2164033996.jpg?ts=1723754834 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741288/w320xh180_GettyImages-2164033996.jpg?ts=1723754834 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741288/w640xh360_GettyImages-2164033996.jpg?ts=1723754834 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741288/w768xh432_GettyImages-2164033996.jpg?ts=1723754834 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741288/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2164033996.jpg?ts=1723754834 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Rudy Carezzevoli / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The 2024 season has already shaped up to have the most parity in recent memory. Since 1990, the most variation in a season for Grand Prix wins was eight, achieved in 2003 and 2012. With seven different drivers already winning a race and the RB20 faltering, the "best of the rest" have an opportunity to tie the record.</p><p>While Aston Martin hasn't produced as many points as it would have liked since Canada, Fernando Alonso is a former world champion for a reason. Nico Hulkenberg has been showing some promise and could <em>finally </em>get his maiden win with a little help. Even Perez, despite a lackluster season, is still driving in a Red Bull and can win in Mexico, his home Grand Prix.</p><h3>McLaren wins the constructors' championship</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738854/cropped_GettyImages-2162910744.jpg?ts=1722289855" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738854/w220xh124_GettyImages-2162910744.jpg?ts=1722289855 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738854/w320xh180_GettyImages-2162910744.jpg?ts=1722289855 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738854/w640xh360_GettyImages-2162910744.jpg?ts=1722289855 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738854/w768xh432_GettyImages-2162910744.jpg?ts=1722289855 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738854/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2162910744.jpg?ts=1722289855 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Bryn Lennon - Formula 1 / Formula 1 / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>It shouldn't be surprising to see Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri near the top of the drivers' championship, but McLaren won't stop there. With Red Bull's stalled development and Perez's struggling form, it's looking more likely that McLaren will win the constructors' championship for the first time since 1998 - before both of its first-team drivers were born.</p><p>Maiden wins from Norris in Miami and Piastri in Hungary show that the team is at the top of its game. Norris' 199 points are only six short of his season total from 2023, and Piastri has long surpassed his rookie points total. Positive car upgrades and solid strategy have put McLaren in the driver's seat and could leave Red Bull fighting to catch up for the first time in three seasons.</p><h3>Drivers' championship comes down to final 2 races</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741369/cropped_GettyImages-2164057707.jpg?ts=1723823719" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741369/w220xh124_GettyImages-2164057707.jpg?ts=1723823719 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741369/w320xh180_GettyImages-2164057707.jpg?ts=1723823719 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741369/w640xh360_GettyImages-2164057707.jpg?ts=1723823719 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741369/w768xh432_GettyImages-2164057707.jpg?ts=1723823719 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741369/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2164057707.jpg?ts=1723823719 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Joe Portlock - Formula 1 / Formula 1 / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>It's been a while since an F1 title battle went down to the wire. That finish might not seem likely right now considering Verstappen holds a 78-point lead over Norris in second place, and the McLaren driver has dropped 25 points from the leader since Imola onwards. Still, Norris has a good chance at making a run for the drivers' championship.</p><p>With Red Bull on a downward trajectory and McLaren the car to beat, it won't be surprising if Norris gets it together after the summer break and consistently finishes ahead of Verstappen. Remember, one DNF is all it takes to tighten up this title fight. Decreasing the deficit to 60 points will keep the championship fight alive in Qatar, but with even more optimistic thinking, maybe another Abu Dhabi decider isn't crazy, either.</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28108058/related

6 bold predictions for 2nd half of 2024 F1 season

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/sarah-wallace/content_cards

Sarah Wallace

Content Curator

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/daniel-valente/content_cards