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

10 NFL Draft prospects to watch in Alabama-Georgia SEC title game

Here is a closer look at the 10 best draft-eligible players in the title game.

NFC South Week 13 predictions: Falcons extend division lead over Saints

The Falcons put distance between themselves and the Saints while Panthers fans inch closer to petitioning owner David Tepper to sell the team. These are our predictions for Week 13 in the NFC South.

Alabama lurks, but likely needs help to reach CFP

Alabama has an outside chance of making the CFP semifinals, but it must do something no team's done to finish in the top four. 

Five destinations for Bears QB Justin Fields in 2024

The Bears look like they'll have two of the top picks in 2024 NFL Draft, which could lead them to move on from 2021 first-round pick Justin Fields.

'MNF' takeaways: Chicago reaching crossroads with Justin Fields

We watched the Bears' 12-10 win over the Vikings on "Monday Night Football" so you didn't have to. Here are the takeaways from a Monday night snoozefest.

Leaked 2024 SEC schedule includes September Alabama-Georgia rematch

Alabama and Georgia won't have to wait long next season for only their third regular-season meeting since 2009.

Why the Falcons are about to run away with the NFC South

The Atlanta Falcons have a cushy down-the-stretch schedule which could help them win the NFC South, if they can just keep from tripping over themselves.

James Madison, Jacksonville State become bowl eligible despite NCAA ruling

The NCAA tried to stop them, but James Madison and Jacksonville State are going bowling regardless.

Winners and losers from Week 13 of the college football season

The CFB regular season wrapped on Saturday and included some huge performances (and a few stinkers) along the way. Winners and losers for Week 13.

Another Jayden Daniels masterpiece should end Heisman debate

The Heisman winner won't be announced until Dec. 9, but that should only be a formality. That's because Jayden Daniels won the award after another dominating performance.

Watch: RB Donovan Edwards completes huge pass to help Michigan beat Ohio State

Michigan running back Donovan Edwards broke Ohio State's spirit last year with his legs. This year, he used his arm.

Oregon State loses head coach to Big Ten

The Spartans made an excellent hire that should quickly erase the stench of the Mel Tucker era. For Oregon State, Jonathan Smith's departure could make the Big Ten the school's biggest rival.

Watch: RB Blake Corum sets Michigan record vs. Ohio State

Corum scored from inside the 1-yard line on a 4th-and-goal, giving him 21 rushing touchdowns this season, a school record.

Watch: ESPN analyst Desmond Howard calls out reporter Pete Thamel, gets blasted online

ESPN analyst Desmond Howard was ripped after he criticized reporter Pete Thamel.

Texas A&M might have a close eye on Michigan-Ohio State

Is a new "Day" fast approaching for Texas A&M?

Big 12's worst-case scenario can still unfold

A nightmare scenario could be on the table for Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark.

TCU's 2023 ended exactly how it began

2023 was a year to forget for TCU.

Loss to Dolphins should put potential Aaron Rodgers return to rest for Jets

It would take a Hail Mary for Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers to return from a torn Achilles this season.

Five CFB games to watch: Ohio State-Michigan winner can book its ticket to CFP semifinal

The final week of the regular season is headlined by another meeting between undefeated Ohio State and unbeaten Michigan, but that's not the only game worth watching this holiday weekend.

Colts owner Jim Irsay throws gasoline on 'First Take' fire in bizarre rant

Jim Irsay couldn't control himself, this time in an unhinged spew of social media posts.

Saints injury report update a step in right direction for Derek Carr

Saints quarterback Derek Carr remains in concussion protocol but is trending toward playing in Week 12 after being a full participant in practice on Wednesday.

Texas A&M AD reveals program's different approach to finding next head coach

The clock is ticking for Texas A&M to find its next head coach.

Bengals quarterback Jake Browning's comments leave no margin for error in Week 12

The Bengals have no excuses. Quarterback Jake Browning, thrust into a starting role after a season-ending wrist injury to Joe Burrow, set the expectation high for Cincinnati in Week 12.

The NBA's in-season tournament is a success

As Pacers-Hawks and Cavaliers-76ers reached their dizzying conclusions on Tuesday night, one thing became clear: the NBA's in-season tournament is a rousing success.

10 Turkey Day nuggets on Thursday's NFL games

The Lions, Cowboys and 49ers are significant favorites in the NFL's Thanksgiving action.