On Facebook
On Flipboard
Transfer QB shines in Notre Dame spring game
Notre Dame's new QB looked right at home in the program's spring game on Saturday.
Wake Forest transfer Sam Hartman moved the ball efficiently in leading the Fighting Irish to 21 points. He went 13-of-16 of 189 yards for two touchdowns and a rushing touchdown.
TOUCHDOWN GOLD@sam_hartman10 to Jayden Thomas #GoIrish☘️ pic.twitter.com/kdBe4jlfEO
— Notre Dame Football (@NDFootball) April 22, 2023
TOUCHDOWN GOLD@sam_hartman10 takes it himself #GoIrish☘️ pic.twitter.com/2A5io1CpCV
— Notre Dame Football (@NDFootball) April 22, 2023
The touchdown and some love from Irish Nation @sam_hartman10 ➡️ @Matthews0520 #GoIrish☘️ pic.twitter.com/VeQXuE4AaK
— Notre Dame Football (@NDFootball) April 22, 2023
Per ESPN, head coach Marcus Freeman previously said he anticipated the QB battle between Hartman and incumbent starter Tyler Buchner could extend deep into training camp due to Buchner's familiarity with the offense.
Hartman demonstrated a firm grasp of the offense, which might give him the advantage as we get closer to the season opener.
He'd have the job won if it was based on experience. Hartman appeared in 48 games from 2018-22 for the Demon Deacons. He was 944-of-1,597 (59.1 percent) for 12,967 yards, 110 touchdowns and 41 interceptions.
Buchner, meanwhile, has 13 appearances with the Irish during the past two seasons and is 67-of-118 (56.8 percent) for 949 yards, six touchdowns and eight interceptions.
Hartman spoke on the sideline about how his competition at QB has been great for his development in South Bend.
#10 had some fun today@sam_hartman10 #GoIrish☘️ pic.twitter.com/aoaoOpezLN
— Notre Dame Football (@NDFootball) April 22, 2023
"Credit to Tyler. He helped me a lot... He could have easily brushed me off or kept me out of the loop, and he's been one of the main reasons I had success today," Hartman said.
The Irish rebounded nicely from an ugly start to their 2022 season. After losing its first two games, including a home loss to Marshall, Notre Dame went 9-2 over its final 11 games, including a 45-38 Gator Bowl win against South Carolina.
Freeman has the program trending in the right direction, and Hartman's strong spring game keeps Notre Dame on its upward trajectory.
More must-reads:
- Colorado football breaks ice on the Deion Sanders era
- Watch: LSU WR records incredible one-handed catch in spring game
- The 'NFL stadium names' quiz
Breaking News
Trending News
TODAY'S BEST
What Oregon Ducks Receiver Malik Benson Said About Dante Moore, Evan Stewart Injury
In the past couple of years, the Oregon Ducks headed into the season with returning veteran wide receivers such as Troy Franklin and Tez Johnson. With senior Evan Stewart missing time due to injury, the program enters 2025 with more uncertainty at the wideout position. Among the players who could play a crucial role this fall is senior transfer Malik Benson. The receiver spoke at Oregon media day about his budding connection with Ducks starting quarterback Dante Moore. Benson's Relationship With Quarterbacks Coach Dan Lanning hasn’t yet named a starting quarterback prior to the start of fall camp. Austin Novosad and Luke Moga are among those competing at the position, but Moore is projected to start. Benson has appeared in videos on social media working out with Moore in the offseason. He told the media on Monday that it’s going to be an “easy connection” because of the off-field chemistry. “Dante, he has a special talent,” Benson said. “And I just can't wait for everybody to be able to see our relationship that we built outside of football.” Moore redshirted the 2024 season while learning from veteran quarterback Dillon Gabriel. He entered college as a five-star recruit out of Michigan and played his freshman year for the UCLA Bruins. The quarterback gave some mixed performances with the Bruins but has shown flashes of stardom between his high school career and college gameplay. “There's never a route that we have that's a dead route,” Benson said. “Because at any point he could be like, ‘Man, I'm just gonna go to this one,’ just because he's a special quarterback.” Neither Moore nor Benson has for sure locked in a starting role in 2025. If their relationship continues to develop during fall camp and their individual performances keep trending in a positive direction, Benson could very well be one of Moore’s top targets this fall. How Stewart’s Injury Impacts Receivers Oregon lost top wide receiver in Tez Johnson to the NFL this offseason, so the news that Stewart would be returning for another season of college football was huge for the Ducks’ offense. Now that Stewart suffered a torn patellar injury, other names will need to carry more of the receiving load. “It's very sad to see your brother go down,” Benson said. “But I will say as receivers, that just made everybody step up.” Benson joined Oregon after beginning his collegiate career at the junior college level. In Benson’s two seasons with Hutchinson Community College, he displayed his prowess at the position by setting a school record of 2,152 receiving yards. “I feel like I put in a lot of work in junior college to get to where I was at,” Benson said. “So once the coaches I know got to call in, it wasn't really a surprise.” The receiver then spent the 2023 season with Alabama. As a junior, he recorded 13 receptions for 162 yards in 14 games for the Crimson Tide. Benson went on to play for the Florida State Seminoles, starting all 12 games and ranking second on the team in receptions and receiving yards last season. The 6-1, 195-pound wideout can now play a key role in the Ducks’ quest to repeat as Big Ten Conference Champions. “For every receiver, I feel like there's more opportunity,” Benson said about Stewart’s injury. “It's like, honestly, everybody is getting a chance at a spot that was there, but now it's gone.” Benson added that the experience will be big for the younger receivers like freshman Dakorien Moore, who will get the chance to play different positions at receiver by the time they get to their sophomore and junior seasons.
Maple Leafs Top Prospect Shatters Expectations at World Junior Showcase
The World Junior Summer Showcase is in full swing, and Maple Leafs top prospect Ben Danford is shattering expectations, truly proving how good of a player he can be. The Toronto Maple Leafs' defensive prospect, Ben Danford, is among the 44 players who were invited to Hockey Canada's World Juniors Summer Showcase. Hockey Canada finally unveiled the 44 prospects who will head to Minnesota for the showcase, after they held the roster release back while the organization dealt with several injuries, which begins Sunday and runs through August 2 in Minneapolis. Defensive prospect Ben Danford is the only Maple Leafs player invited to the annual showcase, where Canada's World Junior staff will get their first look at what their team might look like for the 2026 World Juniors, which will also take place in Minnesota in December. Danford is being called the best player at the World Juniors Summer Showcase Danford has been exceeding expectations, and one source revealed that he has been the best player at the World Junior Showcase so far. The source said Danford is steady, smart, and hard to ignore on the ice. 'Ben Danford has been the best player at the World Junior Showcase he's steady, smart, and impossible to ignore. Makes every shift count, whether he's breaking up plays or starting the rush. Canada's blue line is in good hands.' - An unnamed source The Maple Leafs selected Danford with their first pick (31st overall) at the 2024 NHL Draft. During his visit to Toronto's development camp earlier this month, the defender revealed that he's receiving mentorship from current Leafs defensemen as well as some alumni like Mark Giordano. The 6-foot-2 Danford could make for an excellent fit for Canada should he make the team. He is responsible in his own end, and he demonstrated leadership capabilities when he was named captain of the Oshawa Generals ahead of the 2024-25 OHL season.
Oilers to Acquire a Top-Tier Goalie. An Official Trade Offer Is on the Table in a Blockbuster Deal
Minnesota Vikings Jeff Okudah Turning Heads At Training Camp
The Minnesota Vikings are looking to re-establish their defensive identity in 2025, and one of the surprises of training camp so far has been Jeff Okudah. Once labeled by some as a draft bust, Okudah is making waves under the guidance of new defensive coordinator Brian Flores. His performance, work ethic, and the strides he’s made in adapting to the Vikings’ system are quickly altering perceptions of both his potential and his fit in Minnesota. But Okudah’s story stretches far beyond just this training camp. His NFL career has been one of highs and lows, a testament to both his resilience and ambition. With Flores’ mentorship and a clear path to playing time, Okudah might finally be in the right place to thrive. A Challenging NFL Journey Jeff Okudah entered the NFL with monumental expectations. Selected third overall by the Detroit Lions in the 2020 NFL Draft, the Ohio State standout was viewed as a generational defensive back prospect. His college resume was nothing short of outstanding. At Ohio State, Okudah was a lockdown corner who excelled in press coverage, finished his junior season with three interceptions, and earned unanimous All-American honors. Experts heralded his technique, physicality, and ability to close on the football as elite traits that would translate seamlessly to the professional level. However, like many rookies burdened with high draft expectations, Okudah didn’t get off to the start he dreamed of. His rookie season was marred by injuries and inconsistent play, and Detroit’s overall defensive struggles compounded his growing pains. Things hit a low point during his second season in 2021 when he tore his Achilles just one game into the year. The injury sidelined him for the remainder of the season, raising serious doubts about his durability and ability to regain his form. Even upon returning to the field in 2022, Okudah showed flashes but struggled to secure a consistent role. With the Lions moving in a different direction, Okudah was traded to the Atlanta Falcons in 2023. Atlanta offered him stability and opportunities to play, but his performances didn’t fully live up to his potential, and he became a free agent after the 2024 season rather than earning a long-term extension. Now with the Minnesota Vikings, Okudah is under scrutiny once again. However, this time, there are signs that he may finally break through. Making Waves at Vikings Training Camp One week into the Minnesota Vikings’ training camp, Jeff Okudah has been a standout. Despite initial reservations about his role, Okudah has been running with the first team at nickel cornerback. For a defensive unit that prioritized upgrades in other areas this offseason, Okudah’s emergence has provided an unexpected boost in the secondary. Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores has already praised Okudah’s effort and attention to detail. “He’s been diligent on the field, off the field, in the training room, and in the weight room. He’s always looking to do extra film work,” Flores shared in a recent press conference. One hallmark of Flores’ defense is its reliance on intelligent, adaptable players who can read offenses quickly—and Okudah seems to be rising to the challenge. Flores also made it clear that Okudah’s work ethic and athletic ability are giving him an edge. “He’s getting more comfortable within the defense and has shown up positively in every way,” Flores added. For a player whose confidence was undoubtedly tested in previous seasons, this kind of recognition is both meaningful and motivating. What Okudah Brings to the Vikings’ Defense Okudah’s skill set is what originally made him such a highly valued draft pick. At 6’1” and 205 pounds, he has the size to challenge receivers physically at the line of scrimmage, as well as the speed to keep up in coverage downfield. These traits align well with Flores’ aggressive defensive philosophy, which often calls for corners to play in high-pressure scenarios. Playing in the nickel role can feel limiting to some defensive backs, but it requires discipline and versatility—two strengths Okudah is quickly proving he possesses. Nickel corners must be capable of switching onto slot receivers, dropping back into zone coverage, or even stepping up to help in run defense. It’s no easy job, but Okudah’s adaptability is allowing him to make steady progress. The Vikings are banking on Flores’ knack for turning overlooked talents into key contributors, and Okudah could be the next beneficiary. His ability to stay locked in during practice, both physically and mentally, is earning him trust within the organization. Why This Training Camp Feels Different for Okudah What sets this training camp apart from previous ones in Detroit or Atlanta is the environment. Under Flores, Okudah appears to be part of a system that prioritizes tailored assignments and coaching. The Minnesota Vikings’ staff isn’t asking him to be a savior; they’re asking him to play to his strengths. For a player trying to overcome doubts, this structured approach could be crucial. Additionally, Okudah’s own evolution as a professional is evident. The 24-year-old has dealt with more than his fair share of adversity and seems determined to erase any stigma attached to his draft pedigree. Watching him after practice, continuing reps or working on footwork solo, is a small glimpse into the kind of focus he’s bringing to this opportunity. What His Success Could Mean for the Vikings If Jeff Okudah continues to impress and locks himself into a starting role, the Vikings’ secondary might become more formidable than expected. With veteran safety Harrison Smith anchoring the defense and cornerbacks like Byron Murphy Jr. already contributing, Okudah’s emergence as a dependable nickel corner could provide the versatility needed to counter dynamic passing offenses. It’s also worth noting how Okudah’s trajectory could shape Brian Flores’ reputation. Known for squeezing maximum production out of his players, Flores has a chance to add another reclamation project to his résumé if Okudah lives up to his potential. Final Thoughts Jeff Okudah’s NFL story so far has been anything but linear, but he’s proving at the Minnesota Vikings training camp that the narrative is far from over. Under Brian Flores’ direction, Okudah seems to have found a system and coaching staff capable of helping him tap into his first-round potential. His development could be pivotal not only for the Vikings’ immediate defensive goals but also for reshaping how people view Okudah as a player. It’s still early in camp, and there’s a long season ahead. But for the first time in a long while, it feels like Jeff Okudah is writing a new chapter—one filled with promise, growth, and maybe even the redemption he’s been working toward since 2020.
It's time for the Bengals to meet their disgruntled star halfway
As Trey Hendrickson prepares to end his holdout, it's time for the Cincinnati Bengals to meet their star edge-rusher halfway. On Tuesday, ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter reported that Hendrickson plans to end his holdout amid a prolonged contract dispute by reporting to Bengals camp on Wednesday despite still seeking an extension. "Reporting to camp stops the $50,000 per day fines and also serves as a good-faith gesture to try to jumpstart negotiations," Schefter wrote. Hendrickson is owed $18.7M in 2025. Last season, Hendrickson led the NFL in sacks (17.5). He originally signed a four-year, $60M contract with the Bengals during 2021 free agency and later signed a one-year extension in July 2023 to keep him Cincinnati through 2025. With no guarantees beyond this upcoming season and the edge-rusher market exploding recently, Hendrickson certainly has a valid argument to demand an extension. Meanwhile, Cincinnati has few (if any) good reasons not to reward their best defensive player. Hendrickson, 30, has been one of the league's most prolific pass-rushers since joining the Bengals. Former agent Joel Corry, writing for CBS Sports, brushed aside concerns about a potential drop-off in production while pointing to Pittsburgh Steelers edge T.J. Watt's recent contract extension. As Corry noted, Watt, who became the league's highest-paid non-quarterback when he agreed to a three-year, $123M extension earlier this offseason, is roughly two months older than Hendrickson. "Hendrickson also accounted for 48.6% of Cincinnati's sacks last season while Watt was responsible for 28.8% of Pittburgh's," Corry wrote. On Monday, Schefter shared that the main sticking point in Hendrickson's contract dispute is guaranteed money, with the Bengals hesitant to provide any guarantees beyond 2025 on a potential three-year deal. As productive as Hendrickson has been for the Bengals — his 57 sacks since 2021 only trail Watt and Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett — the front office should be doing everything in its power to ensure he finishes his career in Cincy. Hendrickson ending his holdout is the first step to the sides reaching a resolution. The next is the Bengals giving him an extension commensurate to his production.
Customize Your Newsletter
+
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!
PRIVACY POLICY EDITORIAL POLICY CONTACT US
ABOUT YARDBARKER TERMS OF SERVICE
Use of this website (including any and all parts and
components) constitutes your acceptance of these
Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.
This site is for entertainment purposes only.
There is no gambling offered on this site.
Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-Gambler.
