Yardbarker

Eric Smithling

Eric Smithling is a writer based in New Orleans, LA, whose byline also appears on Athlon Sports. He has been with Yardbarker since September 2022, primarily covering the NFL and college football, but also the NBA, WNBA, men’s and women’s college basketball, NHL, tennis and golf. He holds a film studies degree from the University of New Orleans. You can find him on Twitter/X and Threads at @ericsmithling and at Bluesky at @ericsmithling.bsky.social.

EXPERTISE:

NFL, College Football, NBA, Men's and Women's College Basketball, NHL

Watch: Novak Djokovic wins 41-shot rally, advances to French Open semis

Novak Djokovic won a stunning 41-shot rally against Alexander Zverev in the fourth set at the 2025 French Open quarterfinals, then defeated the world's No. 3 player to advance to his 13th semifinal at Roland Garros.

Watch: Red Sox walk off Angels with only-at-Fenway home run

The Boston Red Sox avoided a sweep against the Los Angeles Angels with a walk-off home run that could only have come at Fenway Park. 

NBA All-Star Game doesn't solve league's in-season exhibition problems, it just creates more

The NBA is once again tinkering with its All-Star Game format, yet it might only create more problems for an event that's no longer of use.

Ranking the head coach-GM combos within each NFC division

In the NFL, it's important for the key decision-makers to be on the same page. That's especially true for a team's head coach and general manager. The GM typically picks the players, who must suit the philosophy and vision of the team's head coach.

Falcons QB Michael Penix Jr. will be key to star RB achieving lofty 2025 goal

Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson has big plans for 2025. His biggest obstacle might be starting quarterback Michael Penix Jr.

Fever's hardship exemption addition comes up huge in first win sans Caitlin Clark

The Indiana Fever finally caught a break. On Tuesday, the Fever won their first game since losing point guard Caitlin Clark to a left quadriceps strain, defeating the Washington Mystics, 85-76.

Injury reveal adds to Texas Tech pitcher NiJaree Canady's lore

Texas Tech Red Raiders pitcher NiJaree Canady's legend continues to grow.

Knicks owed it to themselves to try different approach at HC

While stunning, the New York Knicks owed it to themselves to make a change.

Impressive Paul Blackburn performance continues Mets' exceptional starting pitching

The New York Mets got another strong starting pitching performance on Monday against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Watch: Kerry Carpenter hits three HRs in Tigers rout over White Sox

Detroit Tigers designated hitter Kerry Carpenter had his first career three HR game during Monday's 13-1 blowout win over the Chicago White Sox.

Watch: Angels' Mike Trout blasts HR over Green Monster vs. Red Sox

Los Angeles Angels outfielder Mike Trout left no doubt on his first-inning home run against the Boston Red Sox on Monday night.

Bryce Huff trade is final nail in rare Eagles whiff

The Philadelphia Eagles can't win them all.

Falcons tight end hits snag ahead of pivotal 2025 season

His pivotal fifth NFL season is getting off to a rocky start.

Yankees show they aren't close to Dodgers' level with blowout loss

Once again, the New York Yankees proved they're nowhere near the Los Angeles Dodgers' weight class.

Watch: Paris Saint-Germain strikes first in Champions League final against Inter Milan

Paris Saint-Germain got off to a fantastic start at the Champions League Final against Inter Milan on Saturday.

Paris Saint-Germain cashes in on Desire Doue signing after historic Champions League final

Paris Saint-Germain got more than their money's worth when they signed Desire Doue last August.

Coco Gauff continues impressive clay court run with French Open third round win

Coco Gauff remained hot on clay on Saturday during the third round of the French Open, defeating Marie Bouzkova in straight sets to advance to her fifth consecutive Round of 16.

Why expanding the NCAA Tournament could spoil March Madness

NCAA president Charlie Baker is fully intent on ruining a great thing.

One major move for every NFC team to make

Free agency, the NFL Draft and rookie mini-camps are far in the rearview. Training camps won't begin until deep into the summer. But team building continues. With that in mind, Yardbarker NFL writers identify one major move each team in the NFC should make.

2025 Tampa Bay Buccaneers projected win total, prediction

On Tuesday, the four-time defending NFC South champion Tampa Bay Buccaneers began their voluntary offseason workout  As the Buccaneers begin laying the groundwork for another division crown, here's an early look at their projected 2025 win total, plus our assessment of how they'll fare.

2025 New Orleans Saints projected win total, prediction

The New Orleans Saints have undergone massive changes this offseason, most notably at head coach and quarterback.

Zach Hyman injury puts even more pressure on Oilers star Connor McDavid

The Edmonton Oilers will likely be without a key player as they look to bring home the franchise's first Stanley Cup in 35 years.

Significant preseason change could be exactly what Bengals need

Slow starts to the season have been a thorn in the side of the Bengals for several years. 

College Football 26 cover stars put NFL Draft rules in spotlight

EA Sports College Football 26 cover athletes Jeremiah Smith and Ryan Williams are already among college football's best and most popular stars.