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Trump administration joins Republicans’ campaign to police speech in reaction to Kirk’s murder
By NICHOLAS RICCARDI and KONSTANTIN TOROPIN
Vice President JD Vance on Monday jumped onto the conservative movement demanding consequences for those who have cheered Charlie Kirk’s killing, calling on the public to turn in anyone who says distasteful things about the assassination of his friend and political ally.
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“When you see someone celebrating Charlie’s murder, call them out,” Vance urged listeners on the slain activist’s podcast Monday. “And hell, call their employer.”
Vance’s call also included a vow to target some of the biggest funders of liberal causes as conservatives stepped up their targeting of private individuals for their comments about the killing. It marked an escalation in a campaign that some warned invoked some of the darkest chapters of American history.
“The government involvement in this does inch this closer to looking like McCarthyism,” said Adam Goldstein of the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, referring to the 1950s campaign to root out communists that led to false allegations and ruined careers. “It was not a shining moment for free expression.”
Campaign broadens to those who quote Kirk criticallyRepublican-controlled states such as Florida, Oklahoma and Texas have launched investigations of teachers accused of inappropriate statements after last week’s assassination. The U.S. military has invited members of the public to report those who “celebrate or mock” the killing and said some troops have already been removed for their comments.
At the same time, the Trump administration has vowed to target what it contends is a “vast” liberal network that inspired the shooter, even as authorities maintain it appears he acted alone and the investigation is ongoing.
The campaign has broadened to include even those whose statements were critical of Kirk without celebrating his assassination.
The Washington Post fired Karen Attiah, an opinion columnist, for posts on the day of the shooting that lamented how “white America” was not ready to solve gun violence and that quoted Kirk denigrating the intelligence of prominent Black women such as Michelle Obama.
PEN America, a press freedom group, warned in a statement that firings like Attiah’s “risk creating a chilling effect.”
Goldstein worried there were many cases of people targeted for simply quoting Kirk or failing to mourn his passing adequately. “That’s one of the key symptoms of cancel culture,” he said. “Trying to paint everyone with the same brush.”
Conservatives coined the term cancel culture for what they claimed was persecution of those on the right for their views, especially related to the COVID-19 pandemic and Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, leading to campaigns to get regular people fired.
It was a significant cause for President Donald Trum p, who pledged to end it during his campaign last year. But after the Kirk killing, he and his administration have instead leaned into it from the right.
A hero to conservatives, a provocateur to many DemocratsA father of two and a Christian conservative, Kirk was a hero to many Trump Republicans for his fiery warnings about the dangers of Democrats and ability to organize young voters. But Kirk also was a provocateur and supporter of Trump’s attempt to overturn his 2020 election loss who left a long record of partisan quips that enraged many on the left.
“According to Kirk, empathy is a made-up new-age term, so keep the jokes coming. It’s what he would have wanted,” read one post on X that Melvin Villaver Jr., a Clemson University music professor, re-posted the day of the killing, according to a screenshot circulated by college Republicans demanding his firing. Clemson eventually fired one staffer and suspended Villaver and another professor after intense pressure from elected South Carolina Republican officials.
Other targeted posters, such as Army Lt. Col. Christopher Ladnier, simply quoted Kirk on the day of his assassination. This included Kirk calling the Civil Rights Act a “beast” that “has now turned into an anti-white weapon,” his criticism of Martin Luther King Jr. and his statement that some gun deaths are the cost of a robust Second Amendment.
Ladnier, who has been targeted by conservative activists online, said in a Facebook message to The Associated Press that he would respond “when/if” his chain of command takes action.
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott approvingly posted a video of a Texas Tech University student who was arrested Friday after a confrontation at a campus vigil for Kirk, writing: “This is what happened to the person who was mocking Charlie Kirk’s assassination at Texas Tech.”
Some people targeted have been victims of mistaken identity.
A school district in rural Elkhorn, Wisconsin, reported receiving more than 800 messages after one conservative influencer mistakenly identified an associate principal at an elementary school as celebrating Kirk’s death.
Top Republicans vow to go after ‘domestic terrorist network’Authorities say Kirk was shot by 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, who grew up in a conservative household in southern Utah but was enmeshed in “leftist ideology,” according to the state’s Republican governor, Spencer Cox.
Cox said investigators may reveal more about what motivated the attack after Robinson’s initial court appearance, scheduled for Tuesday. The governor said the suspect, who allegedly carved memes onto his bullet casings, appeared radicalized by the “dark corners of the internet.”
On Monday, Vance was joined on Kirk’s podcast by Stephen Miller, Trump’s deputy chief of staff, who vowed to crack down on what he called the “vast domestic terrorist network” he blamed for Kirk’s death.
Alluding to free speech concerns, Vance said: “You have the crazies on the far left that say, ’Oh, Stephen Miller and JD Vance, they’re going to go after constitutionally protected speech.’”
But he added: “No no no! We’re going to go after the NGO network that foments, facilitates and engages in violence,” — a reference to non-governmental organizations.
The White House did not immediately return a request seeking clarity on the remarks, including which groups might be targeted.
The idea of a retribution campaign against individuals or groups for expressing a particular viewpoint has alarmed many.
“Just having that ideology, just believing differently than some other American is not illegal,” Republican Sen. James Lankford of Oklahoma said on CNN on Sunday.
Instead, he said any groups that have been involved in illegal or violent acts should be targeted.
Killing as a pretext to go after political rivalsOn Kirk’s show, Vance talked about the need for unity after the assassination, but then dismissed it as impossible given what he described as the left’s embrace of political violence. Naming two foundations that fund a wide range of liberal causes, Vance said: “There is no unity with the people who fund these articles, who pay the salaries of these terrorist sympathizers.”
Democratic officials have roundly condemned Kirk’s murder. Democrats also have been victims of political violence recently, including the June assassination of the speaker of the Minnesota House and her husband, and the 2022 beating of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s husband in their San Francisco home.
Caitlin Legacki of Stop Government Censorship, formed to fight the Trump administration’s use of government against its political rivals, said it was one thing for people making abhorrent statements to face consequences.
“When we get concerned is when there appears to be a concerted effort in the government to use this tragedy to punish political opponents,” she said.
Associated Press writers Collin Binkley and Chris Megerian in Washington; Meg Kinnard in Chapin, South Carolina; Juan Lozano in Houston, and Sean Murphy in Oklahoma City contributed to this report.
More South Floridians accused in fake nursing diploma scam, feds say
Twelve more people, including eight South Floridians, were charged for their role in a scheme that sold thousands of fake diplomas to aspiring nurses across the country — nearly three years after federal authorities first announced charges against others.
Then-U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida Markenzy Lapointe announced in January 2023 that more than 7,000 people purchased fraudulent nursing diplomas and transcripts from for-profit nursing schools in Florida, including Siena College in Lauderhill, Sacred Heart International Institute in Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach School of Nursing in Palm Beach County.
The aspiring nurses who purchased the fake credentials used them to qualify for national exams, allowing those who passed to be come eligible for licenses and to be employed in nursing jobs despite never having taken the required courses and clinicals. Diplomas on average were sold for $15,000, the scheme garnering a total of about $114 million.
In “Phase I” of the investigation in 2023, 30 people, including at least eight South Florida residents, were charged and convicted by entering a plea or at trial. As of Monday, some of the additional 12 cases have been scheduled for sentencing or trial while one person has been sentenced to 13 months in federal prison, federal prosecutors said in a news release.
Among the South Florida residents whose cases were announced Monday are:
- Carleen Noreus, 51, of Broward County, who was the president of Carleen Home Health School, Inc. in Plantation and vice president of Carleen Home Health School II, Inc. in West Palm Beach. Her trial is set to begin Dec. 1.
- Patrick Buchanan, 40, of Broward County, who was the owner, registered agent and manager of Sigma Institute of Health Careers, Inc. in Lauderhill. He pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and will be sentenced Nov. 19.
- Gilbert Hyppolite, 73, of Palm Beach County, who was the owner of Techni-Pro Institute LLC in Boca Raton. He is charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
- Irene Matthews, 55, of Palm Beach County, who was the registered agent of Agape Academy of Sciences, LLC. in Delray Beach. She is charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
- Lemuel Pierre, 56, of Broward County, who was the owner of Med-Life Enterprise, Inc. in Lauderdale Lakes. He is charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
- Joel Lubin, 51, of Miami-Dade County, who was the registered agent and administrator of Ideal Professional Institute, Inc. in Miami Gardens. He is charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
- Jose Napoleon, 40, of Palm Beach County, who was the director of admissions for Azure College, Inc. in Fort Lauderdale. He is charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
- Victor Escalante Zerpa, 68, of Miami-Dade County, who incorporated Academus University Corp. in Coral Gables. He is charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
- Stephanie Dorisca, 57, of Broward County, was the Head of Nursing at Techni-Pro Institute LLC. She is charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
About 2,400 of the more than 7,000 students who purchased the fake credentials eventually passed their licensing exams — mainly in New York. Nurses certified in New York are allowed to practice in Florida and many other states. Those who purchased the documents were not likely to be criminally charged, federal officials said in 2023 when charges were announced.
Navigating home inspections, objections and appraisals in Colorado real estate - The Chaffee County Times
Navigating home inspections, objections and appraisals in Colorado real estate The Chaffee County Times
Today in History: September 15, Lehman Brothers files for bankruptcy
Today is Monday, Sept. 15, the 258th day of 2025. There are 107 days left in the year.
Today in history:On Sept. 15, 2008, as a result of the subprime mortgage crisis, Lehman Brothers filed for Chapter 11 in the largest bankruptcy filing in U.S. history.
Also on this date:In 1835, Charles Darwin reached the Galápagos Islands aboard the HMS Beagle.
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In 1935, the Nuremberg Laws were enacted in Nazi Germany, depriving German Jews of their citizenship.
In 1940, the tide turned in the Battle of Britain in World War II, as the Royal Air Force inflicted heavy losses upon the Luftwaffe.
In 1958, a commuter train headed for New York City plunged into Newark Bay after missing a stop signal and sliding off the open Newark Bay lift bridge, killing 48 people.
In 1959, Nikita Khrushchev became the first Soviet head of state to visit the United States as he arrived at Andrews Air Force Base outside Washington.
In 1963, four Black girls were killed when a bomb went off during Sunday services at the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama. (Three Ku Klux Klansmen were eventually convicted for their roles in the blast.)
In 1978, Muhammad Ali became the first boxer to capture the heavyweight title three times, winning by unanimous decision in his rematch with Leon Spinks.
Today’s Birthdays:- Writer-director Ron Shelton is 80.
- Actor Tommy Lee Jones is 79.
- Film director Oliver Stone is 79.
- Football coach Pete Carroll is 74.
- TV personality Lisa Vanderpump is 65.
- Football Hall of Famer Dan Marino is 64.
- Actor Josh Charles is 54.
- Olympic gold medal swimmer Tom Dolan is 50.
- Actor Tom Hardy is 48.
- Actor Amy Davidson is 46.
- Actor Dave Annable is 46.
- Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, is 41.
- TV personality Heidi Montag is 39.
Emmy Awards 2025: Full list of top winners
NEW YORK (AP) — The 77th Primetime Emmy Awards were handed out Sunday at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.
“The Studio” made Emmy history by winning 13 awards, becoming the most awarded comedy series in a single season. It beats the previous record of 11 set by “The Bear” last year.
“The Studio,” Seth Rogen’s Apple TV+ series, won for comedy acting, directing, and writing.
Show Caption1 of 29Tramell Tillman accepts the award for outstanding supporting actor in a drama series for “Severance” during the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards on Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello) Expand“Adolescence” won four awards in the limited series categories, including best supporting actor for 15-year-old Owen Cooper.
“Severance” entered the ceremony as the top overall nominee. Apple TV+ had the two most nominated shows, “Severance” and “The Studio.”
Comedian Nate Bargatze made his hosting debut Sunday night.
Here’s a list of winners at Sunday’s Emmys:
Drama series“The Pitt”
Actor in a drama seriesNoah Wyle, “The Pitt”
Actress in a drama seriesBritt Lower, “Severance”
Supporting actor in a drama seriesTramell Tillman, “Severance”
Supporting actress in a drama seriesKatherine LaNasa, “The Pitt”
Directing for a drama seriesAdam Randall, “Slow Horses”
Writing for a drama seriesDan Gilroy, “Andor”
Comedy series“The Studio”
Actor in a comedy seriesSeth Rogen, “The Studio”
Actress in a comedy seriesJean Smart, “Hacks”
Supporting actress in a comedy seriesHannah Einbinder, “Hacks”
Supporting actor in a comedy seriesJeff Hiller, “Somebody Somewhere”
Directing for a comedy seriesSeth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, “The Studio”
Writing for a comedy seriesSeth Rogen, Evan Goldberg, Peter Huyck, Alex Gregory and Frida Perez, “The Studio”
Limited series, anthology series or movie“Adolescence”
Actor in a limited series, anthology series or movieStephen Graham, “Adolescence”
Actress in a limited series, anthology series or movieCristin Milioti, “The Penguin”
Supporting actor in a limited series, anthology series or movieOwen Cooper, “Adolescence”
Supporting actress in a limited series, anthology series or movieErin Doherty, “Adolescence”
Directing for a limited series, anthology series or moviePhilip Barantini, “Adolescence”
Writing for a limited series, anthology series or movieJack Thorne and Stephen Graham, “Adolescence”
Variety special“SNL 50: The Anniversary Special”
Scripted variety series“Last Week Tonight with John Oliver”
Writing for a variety series“Last Week Tonight with John Oliver”
Talk series“The Late Show with Stephen Colbert”
Reality competition program“The Traitors”
Bob Hope Humanitarian AwardTed Danson and Mary Steenburgen
Daily Horoscope for September 15, 2025
General Daily Insight for September 15, 2025
Actively enjoying ourselves isn’t unproductive — it’s necessary. Pleasure-loving Venus is partying her way through expressive Leo, encouraging us to make the most out of life. Fortunately, it shouldn’t be too tough to pursue our desires when Venus sextiles energizing Mars in Libra at 11:04 pm EDT. Venus just so happens to rule Libra, so these energies will fit together like a hand in a glove. Even if we have a busy day ahead of us, we should make room for fun and games.
AriesMarch 21 – April 19
You don’t have to do much in order to have a lovely time today. People could be coming forward with plenty of good things to share, all thanks to a lovely sextile between graceful Venus in your upbeat 5th house and vivacious Mars, currently lighting up your collaborative 7th house. Someone could enter the scene who brings a cornucopia of positivity along with them. Go along with them as far as you want, because good times are almost certain to follow.
TaurusApril 20 – May 20
There is satisfaction to be found in the simplest tasks. Your ruler Venus is lighting up your expressive 4th house. Presently, she’s emphasizing vivid Mars in your practical 6th house, motivating you to get things done without making any of it feel like a chore. Look around your life for easy ways to improve it. That could mean simplifying your daily routine — or adding to it! It’s up to you. Something that feels like an indulgence can be genuinely useful.
GeminiMay 21 – June 20
There’s almost nothing but good times on offer right now. Venus is in your fast-paced 3rd house. Since that’s your conversational sign’s natural territory, you’ve got every reason to get out and circulate. The mood should be positively buoyant, thanks to Venus cheering on Mars in your exuberant 5th house, so you’ll hardly be able to turn around without encountering someone or something that totally appeals to you. Avoid sticking solely to your own company, because there are wonderful discussions already waiting for your input.
CancerJune 21 – July 22
Why not throw some money at your surroundings? Aesthetic Venus is in your luxury-loving 2nd house, and it will be sextiling make-it-happen Mars in your 4th House of Home Environments. This is an amazing day to re-feather your nest! Whether you’re just picking up a few new throw pillows or giving your space a makeover from top to bottom, you basically can’t go wrong under this angle. You can make magic on any budget, from vintage chic to designer sleek, with these planets guiding you.
LeoJuly 23 – August 22
No one can deny you anything on a day like this — at least, no one should! You’re practically glowing with alluring Venus waltzing through your sign, giving you an extra special something. That Venusian spark can carry you extra far when Venus coordinates with Mars in your outgoing 3rd house, inspiring connection and circulation. Whether you’re hitting the town with your favorite people or out making new friends, others will be positively drawn to you like moths to a flame. Use this power wisely.
VirgoAugust 23 – September 22
Dreams can lead you to a lucrative reality. A special sextile between Venus in your subconscious sector and Mars in your wealth quadrant could result in you birthing a brilliant plan or having an unexpected breakthrough. An unusual solution could itself prove dramatically rewarding, so don’t be scared to take a unique approach to a current project or problem. Likewise, someone could emerge from the backdrop to lend a helping hand — or even a financial gift. If that’s on offer, be gracious about it.
LibraSeptember 23 – October 22
You’re in charge — and everyone is probably happy to follow your thoughtful guidance. Your sign’s traditional ruler, charming Venus, is reaching out from your 11th House of Friend Groups to make a supportive sextile to passionate Mars in your caring sign. You’ve got the cosmic reins, ready to guide your buddies on an easy trail ride. When you respect everyone’s needs, your circle could be more than ready to go along with your plans. Make the most of this surging popularity.
ScorpioOctober 23 – November 21
Brace yourself for a cosmic boost! You’re shining on the professional front while elegant Venus is gracing your 10th House of Authority, giving your reputation a polish. You’re shining even brighter as Venus connects with fiery Mars in your 12th House of Contemplation. Someone or something may work to your advantage without you even knowing it, or perhaps a hidden helper will start speaking in your favor. Sudden insights can also prove beneficial. Keep your head on straight — you’ve got this.
SagittariusNovember 22 – December 21
Your network is potentially ready to expand beyond your wildest dreams. A lovely connection between Venus in your far-flung 9th house to passionate Mars in your aspirational 11th house is energizing you to explore brand-new ideas and discover a lot of excitement — provided you work with others to make it happen. Flying solo is technically an option, but you’ll probably enjoy yourself a lot more when you’ve allied yourself with supportive pals (new or old). The right team will make a world of difference.
CapricornDecember 22 – January 19
The work you do now can pay off in an impressive fashion. Luxurious Venus in your 8th House of Major Finances is sextiling energizing Mars in your 10th House of Recognition, reminding the universe that your efforts ought to be handsomely rewarded, one way or another. The 8th house rules lump sums, rather than regular paychecks, so a professional project could land you a one-time windfall, or perhaps you’ll receive a major bonus for a job well done. You are earning your laurels!
AquariusJanuary 20 – February 18
People want to bring good things into your life! Venus in your cooperation zone is making a supportive sextile to Mars in your expansion sector, putting you in touch with someone who can show you the world in exciting, unfamiliar ways. This person could be a recent acquaintance or someone who’s already in your life, but this is certainly no time to take on the world without someone special by your side. The last thing you should do is keep anyone out.
PiscesFebruary 19 – March 20
Simple steps can lead to a major payout. Easy-going Venus in your daily routine sector is sending out a lovely sextile to powerful Mars in your empowering 8th house, helping make certain that the effort you put in right now should be amply rewarded. Tasks that would normally be a major headache could fly by! You’ll probably find yourself able to accomplish more than usual, so don’t sit back on your laurels when your abilities are operating at an all-time high.
Chris Perkins: Dolphins have nothing going for them, and can’t find anything
MIAMI GARDENS — Here’s the Miami Dolphins’ biggest issue right now — there’s nothing they can count on to win games, or even stabilize their team, as they try to right their ship. That’s a lonely, frustrating, empty feeling. The Dolphins can’t even get the most basic things to go correctly.
We saw that on the Dolphins’ final possession of Sunday’s 33-27 loss to the New England Patriots in the home opener at Hard Rock Stadium. They were flagged for a five-yard false start penalty on center Aaron Brewer, a team captain, and one play later they suffered another five-yard penalty for delay of game.
“Coaches and players that did not execute communication in a very dire period of the game,” coach Mike McDaniel said. “With the game on the line, our communication and our substitution was not up to par.”
The Dolphins, winless at 0-2, are turning into the definition of ineptitude.
They can’t count on doing anything right for an extended period of time, which, for these purposes, we’ll define as a 60-minute NFL game.
“We’ve got to play better,” defensive tackle Zach Seiler said. “We’ve got to be better together as a unit in all three phases.”
That hasn’t happened through two games.
The Dolphins can’t count on their pass rush that’s led by their talented front seven of Sieler, outside linebackers Bradley Chubb, Jaelan Phillips, Chop Robinson and Matthew Judon and inside linebackers Jordyn Brooks and Tyrel Dodson. They totaled three sacks Sunday but none was a game-changer.
They can’t count on their deep passing game led by quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and wide receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle. Tua passed for 315 yards and two touchdowns, but his fourth-quarter interception was a back-breaker. Tyreek had 109 yards receiving but they weren’t difference-making yards. The Dolphins entered the Patriots game with an 11-0 record since 2023 when Tyreek had 100 or more yards receiving. It was a sure thing. It’s not so sure any longer.
The Dolphins can’t count on their running game (61 yards on 15 carries) to deliver a victory, they can’t count on their special teams (allowed a kickoff return for a touchdown), they can’t count on their coaching, they can’t count on playing error-free football, nothing.
“I felt like tonight we got in the groove,” left tackle Patrick Paul said. “And then it was really like a roller-coaster, an emotional roller-coaster as far as getting the momentum and getting in the groove.”
One play after wide receiver/punt returner Malik Washington scored on a 74-yard punt return that gave the Dolphins a 27-23 fourth-quarter lead and electrified the team and the Hard Rock Stadium crowd, New England kickoff returner Antonio Gibson returned the kickoff 90 yards for a touchdown to give the Patriots a 30-27 lead.
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This is why the crowd booed the Dolphins at times Sunday. The boos weren’t necessarily loud. But they were there.
Fans expected this team, in Year 4 of the McDaniel era, to have something it can do well enough to win a game.
The run defense, No. 9 in the league last year, allowed New England 122 yards and 4.2 yards per carry.
I thought the pass rush would be that thing that led this team to victories this season. But it hasn’t approached being good enough to win games.
Consider this example: Phillips was close to getting a sack on Patriots quarterback Drake Maye. But close, as is often the case, wasn’t good enough.
Maye was able to complete a short pass to running back Rhamondre Stevenson on the right sideline late in the third quarter. Stevenson, who had a couple of steps on Brooks, did the rest, turning the short completion into a 55-yard gain to the Dolphins’ 21-yard line. Two plays later Maye was able to outrun Judon, turn the corner and glide into the end zone for a 6-yard touchdown run and a 23-20 Patriots lead late in the third quarter.
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The Dolphins needed Phillips to get to Maye. The Dolphins need the pass rush to stabilize the defense, and, by extension, the team, because their pass defense is so porous.
You want another example?
Dolphins rookie safety Dante Trader dove at the feet of running back TreyVeon Henderson on a third-and-13 that Henderson turned into a 14-yard gain. They can’t even tackle.
The tackle attempt was so bad you’d have thought it was last year’s Thanksgiving game at Green Bay, the game where Brooks said the cold weather made the defense seem to play soft.
The Dolphins’ mindset was good as I talked to players in the locker room after Sunday’s disappointing loss. But those good vibes will evaporate quickly if they can’t get a win soon, starting with the Bills in Buffalo on Thursday.
And a loss on Thursday could spell the end for McDaniel, whose record is now 28-25 (.528) excluding playoffs, and 28-27 (.509) including playoffs.
I asked McDaniel how he felt about his job security.
“I think if I worry about my job security, I won’t be doing my job,” he said.
If he can’t find a way to win games, not doing this job will become his reality.
Show Caption1 of 31A banner calling for the firing of head coach Mike McDaniel and general manager Chris Grier flies past Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens before the game against the New England Patriots on Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025. (Joe Cavaretta/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Expand‘The Pitt’ wins drama Emmy Award as the ‘The Studio’ breaks Emmys comedy record
By ANDREW DALTON, AP Entertainment Writer
LOS ANGELES (AP) — “The Studio” turned the Emmys into a wrap party, winning best comedy series and breaking a comedy record for victories in a season with 13, as “Adolescence” and “The Pitt” took the night’s other top prizes.
“I’m legitimately embarrassed by how happy this makes me,” series co-creator Seth Rogen said with his signature giggle, surrounded by cast and crew from the Apple TV+ movie-business romp.
All four of the Emmys handed out during Sunday night’s CBS telecast from the Peackock Theater in Los Angeles went to Rogen. Along with the comedy series award, he won best directing with “Studio” co-creator and longtime collaborator Evan Goldberg, and best writing with Goldberg and others.
The first season of “The Studio” brought blockbuster buzz, and the Emmys ate it up from the start, whether because of Hollywood’s love for stories about itself (with A-list guest stars) or the television industry’s love for stories that mock the self-importance of movie people.
“The Pitt” won best drama series while star Noah Wyle won best actor in a drama, getting his first Emmy after five nominations with no victories in the 1990s for “ER.”
Katherine LaNasa also won best supporting actress for the HBO Max medical series that had a Cinderella evening, trumping such heavyweights as “Severance” and “The White Lotus” for the top prize.
Show Caption1 of 29Tramell Tillman accepts the award for outstanding supporting actor in a drama series for “Severance” during the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards on Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello) Expand ‘Adolescence’ triumphsThe six wins for Netflix’s acclaimed “Adolescence,” the story of a 13-year-old in Britain accused of a killing, included best actor for co-creator Stephen Graham, and best supporting actor for 15-year-old Owen Cooper, who became the youngest Emmy winner in over 40 years.
Cooper said in his acceptance that he was “nothing three years ago.”
“It’s just so surreal,” Cooper said. “Honestly, when I started these drama classes a couple years back, I didn’t expect to be even in the United States, never mind here. So I think tonight proves that if you, if you listen and you focus and you step out your comfort zone, you can achieve anything in life.”
Best supporting actress went to Erin Doherty, who played a therapist opposite Cooper in a riveting episode that like all four “Adolescence” episodes was filmed in a single shot.
Graham also won for writing.
Cristin Milioti won best actress in a limited series for “The Penguin.” It was the first win of the night for the HBO series from the Batman universe after it won eight at the Creative Arts ceremony.
Britt Lower and Tramell Tillman each won their first Emmy for “Severance,” the Apple TV+ Orwellian workplace satire that is considered the favorite for best drama. Lower won best actress in a drama and Tillman won best supporting actor in a drama.
“My first acting coach was tough, y’all,” Tillman, wearing an all-white tuxedo, said from the stage. “But all great mothers are.”
He looked out to his mother in the audience and told her, “You were there for me where no one else was, and no one else would show up.”
His win had been widely expected but Lower’s was a surprise in a category where Kathy Bates was considered a heavy favorite, for “Matlock.”
Jean Smart won best actress in a comedy for “Hacks” for the fourth time, at 73 extending her own record for the oldest woman ever to win the category.
Every acting winner other than Smart was a first timer.
A night of surprise winnersSmart’s castmate and constant scene partner Hannah Einbinder, who had also been nominated for all four seasons but unlike Smart had never won, took best supporting actress in a comedy.
She said she had become committed to a bit where “it was cooler to lose.”
“But this is cool too!” she shouted, then ended her speech by cursing the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency and saying “Free Palestine!”
Katherine LaNasa won best supporting actress in a drama for the “The Pitt,” a surprise in a category where most expected one of the three nominees from “The White Lotus” to win.
“I am so proud and honored,” LaNasa, looking emotional and shocked, said.
In perhaps the biggest upset in a night full of them, Jeff Hiller won best supporting actor in a comedy for “Somebody Somewhere,” over Ike Barinholtz of “The Studio” and others.
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Stephen Colbert was the first person to take the stage to present the award during the CBS telecast at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles despite the recent controversial cancellation of his show by the network. He was greeted by a rousing and lengthy standing ovation.
“While I have your attention, is anyone hiring?” Colbert said.
In an unusual show order, host Nate Bargatze delivered his opening monologue only after the first award was handed out.
The show opened with a sketch where “Saturday Night Live” stars Mikey Day, Bowen Yang and James Austin Johnson joined Bargatze, who played television inventor Philo T. Farnsworth opining on what the future of TV will be like.
Bargatze-as-Farnsworth mentions that there will be a Black Entertainment Television. When asked if there will be a network for white people, he replied, “Why, CBS of course.”
Dave Hyde: Dolphins play dumb, disorganized at the end in loss to Patriots
MIAMI GARDENS — This was a bad loss, anywhere, against any team. It just felt worse Sunday, because the Miami Dolphins looked like a youth team that couldn’t line up and run plays properly with their home opener on the line.
Or they couldn’t run the plays without a dumb penalty.
Or, when all that fundamental stuff actually worked, the quarterback they put in the $50 million club threw an interception to end one chance and was sacked when he couldn’t move out of harm’s way for the final chance.
“Anyone knows football and anyone who doesn’t know football knows that was not right, what we were doing,” quarterback Tua Tagovailoa said after losing to the New England Patriots, 33-27.
This is a loss as bad as the one the Dolphins had to open the season last week, when they were run off the field in Indianapolis. They just lost another way Sunday, a dumber way, a way that looked like coach Mike McDaniel doesn’t have the offense fully installed four years in.
Forget all the drama that made it a fun game to watch: The four lead changes, the back-to-back kick returns for touchdowns in the fourth quarter, the manner this game was fitting into this weird series with New England that involves those Miracle in Miami laterals and Doug Flutie drop-kicking an extra point.
The Dolphins are 0-2, and this regime teetering, because of the final few, revealing minutes where everything went kaput on offense. Two delay-of-game penalties. Two other pre-snap penalties. The quarterback not taking the offered opportunity.
“Basically, coaches and player did not execute communication in a very dire part of the game with the game on the line,” McDaniel said of the penalties. “Our communication and substitution was not up to par and that is ultimately my — you know, I hold all responsibility for all things.”
The trouble started on first-and-10 at their 47-yard line with 3:18 left and — tweet! — there’s a delay-of-game penalty. Not the end of the world, but a repeating issue after having to call time-out in Indianapolis as time ran out on a two-point conversion.
After an incompletion, running back Ollie Gordon was penalized for a false start. It was second-and-20 now. You see how dumb was piled on top of dumb?
Tua then threw 13 yards to Tyreek Hill, showing that combination was working Sunday. The passing offense, really, was back in good form against a suspect Patriots secondary.
The Dolphins averaged 6.9 yards a play compared to 5.1 last year. They averaged 6.5 yards a play when they led the league in offense in 2023.
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But on fourth-and-7 with the season asking him to be a hero for the first time Tua threw a pass over the middle directly to Patriots linebacker Marte Matu. He returned the interception 20 yards to the Dolphins 38 with 2:12 left.
Over? Hardly. The Dolphins defense made a rare stand after being scored on the first three Patriots possessions Sunday. That meant opposing offenses scored 10 consecutive possessions to start the season.
But they held New England to a field goal, and Tua’s offense had another chance. Or maybe it’s McDaniel’s offense. It’s not clear who wants to take full ownership right now.
It took three plays to go from their 40 to the Patriots 26-yard line. Again, this offense was moving the ball. Scoring was the problem.
On first-and-10, center Aaron Brewer didn’t snap the ball as everyone else moved. Another penalty.
On first-and-15, they got another delay of game penalty. If I’m repeating myself, it’s only because they kept doing so.
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The Dolphins had three delay-of-game penalties all last season, and had two in the final 3:18 on Sunday?
This was at home, too, so it’s not like some opposing crowd was causing communication problems.
“I’m gonna have a conversation with Mike, I’m gonna have a conversation with (assistant coach) Darrell Bevell, with our offensive guys, and talk about it,” Tagovailoa said. “Because what we put out there, that was unsettling.”
He could have a heart-to-heart with himself, too. He’s being paid to be a star quarterback, and he couldn’t keep the offense going.
On third down, he was run out of bounds. On fourth, he stayed in the pocket and was sacked. A week ago, former Dolphin and current Indianapolis cornerback Xavien Howard said when Tua can’t hit his first read and has to hold the ball he’s in “panic mode.”
He didn’t create a play Sunday when the drawn-up play fell apart. On the other side, Drake Maye ran for 31 yards, including 13 for a first down, a tush-push for another first down and a 6-yard touchdown. Daniel Jones ran for 2 touchdowns for Indy the week before.
No one wants to see Tua run with his concussion history. But create a play, make a play — be a hero when the end beckoned? That’s why he’s in the $50 million club, isn’t it?
The second loss looked better for the Dolphins because it was close. But it was just as bad as the opener, because it was a disaster or disorganization at the finish and the quarterback everyone needs to win games in this league not winning this one.
Now they play Thursday in Buffalo, where they haven’t won since 2016. It’s not the place you want everything to be on the line. But that’s where this season looks to be after two bad losses.
Show Caption1 of 31A banner calling for the firing of head coach Mike McDaniel and general manager Chris Grier flies past Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens before the game against the New England Patriots on Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025. (Joe Cavaretta/South Florida Sun Sentinel)ExpandDolphins Deep Dive: ‘Things are very shaky’ as Miami falls to 0-2 | VIDEO
In this Dolphins Deep Dive video, the South Florida Sun Sentinel’s Chris Perkins and David Furones discuss Miami’s gut punch of a loss to the New England Patriots in its homer opener as the Dolphins remain winless on the season.
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Stars are walking the red carpet at the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards. Comedian Nate Bargatze will host television’s biggest awards Sunday night from the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.
Splashes of red, blue and green punctuated a carpet heavy on black. Then there was Justine Lupe. She nabbed a low-cut, silvery sparkler off a Carolina Herrera runway for a classic awards show look.
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“It’s so fun. I’m so glad they let me wear it,” Lupe told E!
Molly Gordon from “The Bear” did what few dare: She wore horizontal stripes, and the gown was a stunner. Her strapless look alternated wide black stripes with white ones, a Giorgio Armani from his fall-winter 1996 collection. The legendary designer died Sept. 4 at 91.
In another ode to the late Armani, Leslie Bibb of “The White Lotus” did justice to a black velvet look from a recent collection of the late designer. The statuesque Bibb wore it well. The body-hugger was backless with silver detailing below a chest featuring boxy pieces covering what needs covering.
“RuPaul’s Drag Race” was nominated in the reality competition program, and Season 17’s stars dressed to impress with eye-catching attire ranging from the Labubu-inspired to Michael Jackson and Miss Piggy.
Megan Stalter of “Hacks” showed off a black handbag with a message: “Cease fire.” She was dressed in loose jeans and a white T-shirt as she made sure photographers didn’t miss the bag.
Javier Bardem wore a keffiyeh in the colors of the Palestinian flag — red, green, black and white — to show solidarity with people in Gaza.
Nominee Walton Goggins stole a couple of smooches from wife Nadia Conners as arrivals got under way. Both wore white. Goggins went that extra mile on the unbuttoning for a bare chest moment.
Even Apple CEO Tim Cook walked the red carpet, saying he was there to support the night’s two top nominees, “Severance” and “The Studio,” both of which are created by Apple TV+. Cook said it’s remarkable the fanbase and theories that have developed around “Severance,” a sci-fi workplace drama. Asked if Apple is influenced by the show, Cook said: “It influences culture, so obviously it influences Apple as well.”
Here are photos of the fashion on the 2025 Emmy Awards red carpet:
Jennie Garth attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) Colman Domingo attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) Jean Smart attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) (L-R) Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco attend the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) (L-R) Scarlett Johansson and Colin Jost attend the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) Gina Torres attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Michael Urie attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) (L-R) Brittany Snow and Malin Akerman attend the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) Kristen Bell attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Uzo Aduba attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) James Marsden attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) US actor Adam Brody arrives for the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at the Peacock Theatre at LA Live in Los Angeles on September 14, 2025. (Photo by FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP via Getty Images) Angela Bassett attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Catherine Zeta-Jones attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) Michelle Williams attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) US actress Sydney Sweeney arrives for the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at the Peacock Theatre at LA Live in Los Angeles on September 14, 2025. (Photo by PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images) Elizabeth Banks attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) Christopher Meloni attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) Leslie Bibb attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – SEPTEMBER 14: (L-R) Vincent Hughes and Sheryl Lee Ralph attend the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) Keri Russell attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) Spanish actor Javier Bardem arrives for the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at the Peacock Theatre at LA Live in Los Angeles on September 14, 2025. (Photo by PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images) (L-R) Shahidah Omar and J. B. Smoove attend the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) Brian Tyree Henry attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) Mariska Hargitay attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) (L-R) Lauren Graham and Alexis Bledel attend the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) Jessica Williams attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) (L-R) Harrison Ford and Calista Flockhart attend the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Leighton Meester attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Jude Law attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) Halsey attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Jesse Williams attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) (L-R) Seth Rogen and Lauren Miller Rogen attend the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) US singer Lainey Wilson arrives for the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at the Peacock Theatre at LA Live in Los Angeles on September 14, 2025. (Photo by PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images) New Zealand director and actor Taika Waititi and his wife British singer songwriter Rita Ora arrive for the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at the Peacock Theatre at LA Live in Los Angeles on September 14, 2025. (Photo by FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP via Getty Images) (L-R) Martin Short and Steve Martin attend the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) Chilean-US actor Pedro Pascal arrives for the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at the Peacock Theatre at LA Live in Los Angeles on September 14, 2025. (Photo by PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images) Jenna Ortega attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) US actress Sarah Paulson arrives for the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at the Peacock Theatre at LA Live in Los Angeles on September 14, 2025. (Photo by FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP via Getty Images) (L-R) Rex Linn and Reba McEntire attend the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) Naomi Scott and Adam Scott attend the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) Quinta Brunson attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) Cate Blanchett arrives for the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at the Peacock Theatre at LA Live in Los Angeles on September 14, 2025. (Photo by PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images) Catherine O'Hara attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Savion Washington/Getty Images) Parker Posey arrives for the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at the Peacock Theatre at LA Live in Los Angeles on September 14, 2025. (Photo by PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images) Anna Sawai attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) (L-R) Jake Gyllenhaal and Jeanne Cadieu attend the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) US comedian Stephen Colbert (L) and wife Evelyn McGee-Colbert arrive for the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at the Peacock Theatre at LA Live in Los Angeles on September 14, 2025. (Photo by PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images) Kaitlyn Dever attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Savion Washington/Getty Images) Ben Stiller attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) (L-R) Kimberly Schlapman and Karen Fairchild attend the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) US actor Harvey Guillen arrives for the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at the Peacock Theatre at LA Live in Los Angeles on September 14, 2025. (Photo by PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images) Natasha Rothwell attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) Lisa attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Aimee Lou Wood attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) US actress Jenny Slate arrives for the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at the Peacock Theatre at LA Live in Los Angeles on September 14, 2025. (Photo by PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images) Joella arrives at the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards on Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. (Photo by Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP) Tim Cook attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Chloe Sevigny attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Savion Washington/Getty Images) Janelle James attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) (L-R) Jimmy Kimmel and Molly McNearney attend the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Hannah Einbinder attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Tyler James Williams attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Michelle Monaghan attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) British actor and director Alan Cumming arrives for the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at the Peacock Theatre at LA Live in Los Angeles on September 14, 2025. (Photo by PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images) (L-R) Kathy Bates and Skye P. Marshall attend the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Abby Elliott attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Savion Washington/Getty Images) Jennifer Coolidge attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Corey Hendrix arrives for the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at the Peacock Theatre at LA Live in Los Angeles on September 14, 2025. (Photo by PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images) US actress Lukita Maxwell arrives for the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at the Peacock Theatre at LA Live in Los Angeles on September 14, 2025. (Photo by FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP via Getty Images) Britt Lower attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Ruth Negga attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Markell Washington attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) Chris Perfetti attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) US actress Molly Gordon arrives for the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at the Peacock Theatre at LA Live in Los Angeles on September 14, 2025. (Photo by PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images) Acacia Forgot attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) US actor Jason Segel (R) and Kayla Radomski arrive for the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at the Peacock Theatre at LA Live in Los Angeles on September 14, 2025. (Photo by PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images) Megan Stalter attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) (L-R) Brett Goldstein and Jessica Radloff attend the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) (L-R) Walton Goggins and Nadia Conners attend the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) US actress Sarah Bock arrives for the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at the Peacock Theatre at LA Live in Los Angeles on September 14, 2025. (Photo by PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images) Dichen Lachman attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) Justine Lupe attends the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)Contributing: Associated Press
Things we learned in Miami Dolphins’ 33-27 loss to the New England Patriots
MIAMI GARDENS — The Miami Dolphins entered Sunday’s home opener against New England badly needing a victory. They didn’t get it, losing, 33-27, to fall to 0-2 heading into Thursday’s game at Buffalo.
Fans were angry during the past week, angry enough to finance an airplane that towed a banner an anti-general manager and anti-coach banner requesting the firing of general manager Chris Grier and coach Mike McDaniel.
Fans also booed the Dolphins lightly early in the game. All was forgiven by the third quarter when the Dolphins took a 17-15 lead that they turned into a 20-15 advantage. But that happiness didn’t last long, and perhaps the same could be said for McDaniel’s future with the Dolphins. We’ll see.
This week will be ugly; here are some of the top takeaways from Sunday’s game:
Dolphins should brace for all-time high in uglinessFans will be especially angry this week and will likely call for firings of Grier and McDaniel. Again. The only break for the Dolphins is it’s a short week. But if they lose Thursday at the Bills they get a long week of ugliness before hosting the New York Jets on Sept. 29 on Monday Night Football.
Owner Steve Ross will have a big decision to make this month as to whether he retains McDaniels and inserts an interim coach from the staff. McDaniel is now 28-25 (.528) not including his 0-2 playoff record. The Dolphins are 10-13 (.435), including playoffs, since that 2023 late-season loss to Tennessee. — Chris Perkins
Defense gives up points on 13 consecutive possessionsThe Dolphins’ defense gave up points on 13 consecutive possessions, dating back to last season, by halftime. Included in that streak was seven touchdowns and six field goals. New England, which scored on its first three possessions Sunday, had a kneel-down to end the first half, which mercifully ended the streak.
The Jets scored on their final three possessions of last year’s finale, a 32-20 Dolphins loss, and Indianapolis scored on all seven of its possessions last week, a 33-8 Dolphins loss, and the Patriots scored on their first three possessions of the first half. The Dolphins, with Sunday’s loss, lost all three games involved in that streak.
Hill returns a punt, Washington does it better, and then tragedy strikesWide receiver Malik Washington’s 74-yard punt return touchdown in the fourth quarter was a huge play in the game. Washington, one of the toughest players on the team, caught the punt on the right side, broke out of a pack of would-be tackles, hit the left sideline and outran punter Bryce Baringer with linebacker Willie Gay and running back Ollie Gordon II escorting him into the end zone. The Dolphins took a 27-23 lead on the touchdown.
The problem was Patriots kickoff returner Antonio Gibson took the ensuing kickoff 90 yards for a touchdown to give the Patriots a 30-27 lead.
Wide receiver Tyreek Hill, who the Dolphins were reluctant to use on punt returns the previous three years under ex-special teams coordinator Danny Crossman, had a punt return in the third quarter against New England. It went for 19 yards. Hill’s first chance at the punt return went for five yards but it was negated by a holding call against New England.
Entering the game Hill, arguably the Dolphins’ most dangerous player with the ball in his hands, had five punt returns for 27 yards in his previous three seasons with the Dolphins — two returns for minus-4 yards in 2022, and three punt returns for 31 yards in 2024.
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Wide receiver Tyreek Hill ended with nine receptions for 109 yards, marking the first time since 2023 the Dolphins lost when he had at least 100 yards receiving. The Dolphins were previously 11-0.
Tua shakes off shaky start but ends just as shakyQuarterback Tua Tagovailoa threw an interception on his first pass of the day but fortunately for the Dolphins the play was negated by offsetting penalties — holding by the Dolphins and offside on the Patriots. Unfortunately Tagovailoa threw his only interception in the fourth quarter. It came on fourth-and-9 with 2:12 remaining and the Dolphins trailing, 30-27.
Tagovailoa ended 26 of 32 for 315 yards, two touchdowns, one interception and a 115.5 passer rating. In the first half the Dolphins got their passing offense going when Tagovailoa hit wide receiver Jaylen Waddle and then running back De’Von Achane for 18- and 29-yard touchdown passes, respectively. Tagovailoa’s inability to run might have been costly late as he wasn’t a threat when the pocket broke down.
Davis is first as fifth DBSafety Ashtyn Davis was the fifth defensive back the first time the Dolphins went to the nickel defense along with cornerbacks Rasul Douglas and Jack Jones and safeties Minkah Fitzpatrick and Iffy Melinfonwu. Rookie slot/nickel CB Jason Marshall Jr. came in on the next five-defensive backs play replacing Davis and playing alongside the starting four.
Gordon gets involved early and lateRookie running back Ollie Gordon II got in the game late in the first quarter and had a nice lead block on an 18-yard run by Washington. He then had a rugged eight-yard run up the middle. The Dolphins scored one play later on the touchdown pass from Tagovailoa to Waddle.
Gordon, the physical presence in the backfield, didn’t do much after that until the fourth quarter when he had a five-yard reception on second 12. Gordon ended with one rush for eight yards and one reception for five yards.
Trader replaces Melinfonwu in second quarterRookie safety Dante Trader replaced veteran safety Iffy Melinfonwu in the second quarter. Melinfonwu was the closest defender on the Patriots’ first touchdown, an eight-yard pass to wide receiver Mack Hollins. Melinfonwu blew a touchdown coverage last week on a touchdown by Indianapolis wide receiver Michael Pittman. Melinfonwu was announced to have a calf injury with 1:04 left in the game.
Pass rush begins to surfaceThe Dolphins’ front seven, which some consider the strength of the team, started to come to life as it recorded three sacks Sunday, one by outside linebacker Bradley Chubb, one by inside linebacker Jordyn Brooks and another by outside linebacker Chop Robinson.
The Dolphins had one sack last week against Indianapolis, and it belonged to Chubb.
A perfect example of why the pass rush is so important came in the third quarter when outside linebacker Jaelan Phillips just missed quarterback Drake Maye before he uncorked a pass that resulted in a 55-yard catch-and-run completion to running back Rhamondre Stevenson with linebacker Jordyn Brooks trailing on coverage. On the following play Maye outran outside linebacker Matthew Judon, turned the corner and scored on a 6-yard touchdown run.
Perhaps Dolphins didn’t suffer any major injuriesThe Dolphins lost four starters to injury last week against Indianapolis but it appeared they didn’t lose any against New England. In fact, they didn’t have anyone enter the blue injury tent on the sideline, where players get examined on the sideline, until outside linebacker Chop Robinson had a knee injury evaluated with 7:55 left in the game and Melinfonwu was announced with a calf injury late in the game. But we’ll have to wait and see to be sure.
Last week the Dolphins lost right guard James Daniels (pectoral), right tackle Austin Jackson (toe), defensive tackle Benito Jones (oblique) and cornerback Storm Duck (ankle).
Offensive line strugglesThe Dolphins’ makeshift offensive line — right guard Kion Smith and right tackle Larry Borom were replacement starters — allowed five sacks Sunday. The crowning blow came late as the right side of the offensive line allowed a sack on the Dolphins’ final offensive play of the game. Starting center Aaron Brewer, left guard Jonah Savaiinaea and left tackle Patrick Paul all had their bad moments although Paul might grade out best for the second consecutive week.
Many regarded this year’s offensive line depth as the worst in the McDaniel era. The Dolphins ended with 61 yards rushing on 15 carries as they trailed for most of the game.
Heat and humidity don’t helpDolphins linebacker Jordyn Brooks denied the notion the heat and humidity could help the Dolphins win and he was right. The “feels-like” temperature hit 88 degrees but New England didn’t seem affected. Brooks said during the past week it’d take a good mindset by the Dolphins to win, not hot weather.
This was the Dolphins’ only September home game with a 1 p.m. kickoff. They host the New York Jets on Sept. 29 but it’s on Monday Night Football, when hot, humid weather won’t likely be a factor.
Dolphins Deep Dive: ‘Things are very shaky’ as Miami falls to 0-2 | VIDEO
Miami ALMOST made arch-nemesis Harold Landry disappearFor the first 57 minutes Sunday, new Patriot Harold Landry only had his name called for an offsides flag as Tua Tagovailoa and the offense settled in. However, the former Tennessee Titan, who owned the Dolphins in his three games against the aqua and orange, piling up five sacks, got that sixth sack in a huge spot late. Landry has been the biggest single aspect of Mike Vrabel’s success against Mike McDaniel. — Steve Svekis
Tua home mastery in the September cauldron dropped off only slightlyEntering Sunday, in his five 1 p.m. starts in September at Hard Rock Stadium, Tagovailoa had gone 82-118 for 1,116 yards with 7 TD passes and 0 picks, for an incredible 119.2 passer rating. His first interception in such games ticked his passer rating for the game to 115.5. He had a first-half pick negated by a Patriot lining up offside, but had a solid final 45 minutes.
What has an 0-2 start meant to the Dolphins in the past?Sunday marked the 14th time in team history the Dolphins have started a season 0-2. In his 27 seasons coaching the team, Don Shula got off to a 0-2 start only once (1988). In the past 22 seasons, the Dolphins have been winless going in to Game 3 10 times. In three of the previous 13 instances, Miami rallied for double-digit wins, including the 2008 season where, in Game 3, the Tony Sparano-led squad beat the Patriots in The Ronny Brown Game in Foxborough, Massachusetts to end the most ignominious 21-game run in franchise history, where they went 1-21 from the end of 2006 through that magical 38-13 beatdown of Bill Belichick. Sparano and Co. finished that year 11-3 to win the AFC East. Meanwhile, the Patriots have had one 0-2 start in the past 24 years (2023).
Here are the past 13 0-2 starts (and the final regular-season record):
2020 (10-6);
2019 (5-11);
2016 (10-6);
2011 (6-10);
2009 (7-9);
2008 (11-5);
2007 (1-15);
2006 (6-10);
2004 (4-12);
1988 (6-10);
1969 (3-10-1);
1968 (5-8-1);
1966 (3-11).
De’Von Achane’s ability to hit the end zone has gotten eliteThe blown receiving TD late, with shades of the gift the Dolphins got from Antonio Brown and the Steelers in icy Pittsburgh in 2013, just hurts to the core. That said, Achane’s touchdown reception marked his seventh receiving score in his past 13 games, and he has 11 in 30 career games. By comparison, Christian McCaffrey had 11 in his first 28 games. So, he is in rare air. But 12 TDs, would have been amazing.
The first-quarter scoring drought is reaching epic proportionsHaving been shut out so far in the opening 15 minutes against the Colts and Patriots, the Dolphins’ offense now has 18 points in the first quarter of its past nine games.
When Tua Tagovailoa plays the Patriots, his non-offensive teammates show upMalik Washington’s go-ahead punt return touchdown became the fourth non-offensive touchdown scored by the Dolphins in Tagovailoa’s 7-1 run against the Pats. In the 2021 season finale, the Dolphins got a 37-yard Xavien Howard pick-six and then a final-play fumble recovery by Samuel Eguavoen in the end zone. Then, in the 2022 season opener, Melvin Ingram got a 2-yard fumble return after a sack.
Again, the mobile quarterback torched the DolphinsMiami fell to 8-27 against mobile QBs as Drake Maye scored a huge touchdown for the Patriots. In those 35 games, those QBs have piled up an incredible 113.5 passer rating and run for 1,331 yards and tallied 13 rushing scores. The opposing teams have averaged 29 points a game on offense and almost 400 yards per game.
On deck: At Buffalo Bills, Highmark Stadium, Thursday, 8:15 p.m.The Dolphins will be playing their final regular-season game at Highmark Stadium. Through 1986, the Dolphins had a 16-5 record in upstate New York, but it has been a gruesome 9-28 since. … In the Josh Allen era, the Bills have averaged 37.4 points a game at home against the Dolphins, going 8-0.
Show Caption1 of 31A banner calling for the firing of head coach Mike McDaniel and general manager Chris Grier flies past Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens before the game against the New England Patriots on Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025. (Joe Cavaretta/South Florida Sun Sentinel)ExpandToday in History: September 14, Monaco princess dies of car crash injuries
Today is Sunday, Sept. 14, the 257th day of 2025. There are 108 days left in the year.
Today in history:On Sept. 14, 1982, Princess Grace of Monaco, formerly film star Grace Kelly, died at age 52 of injuries from a car crash the day before.
Also on this date:In 1847, during the Mexican-American War, U.S. forces under Gen. Winfield Scott took control of Mexico City.
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In 1861, the first naval engagement since the start of the Civil War took place as the USS Colorado attacked and sank the Confederate private schooner Judah off the coast of Pensacola, Florida.
In 1901, President William McKinley died in Buffalo, New York, of gunshot wounds inflicted by an assassin eight days prior; Vice President Theodore Roosevelt succeeded him, becoming the youngest-ever U.S. president at age 42.
In 1927, modern dance pioneer Isadora Duncan died in Nice, France, when her scarf became entangled in a wheel of the sports car in which she was riding.
In 1991, the government of South Africa, the African National Congress and the Inkatha (in-KAH’-tah) Freedom Party signed a national peace pact.
In 1994, on the 34th day of a strike by players, Acting Baseball Commissioner Bud Selig announced the 1994 season was over.
In 2001, Americans packed churches and public squares on a day of remembrance for the victims of the Sept. 11 attacks. President George W. Bush prayed with his Cabinet and attended services at Washington National Cathedral, then flew to New York, where he waded into the ruins of the World Trade Center and addressed rescue workers in a show of resolve.
In 2012, fury over an anti-Muslim film ridiculing the Prophet Muhammad sparked violent clashes across the Muslim world.
Today’s Birthdays:- Actor Walter Koenig (KAY’-nihg) (“Star Trek”) is 89.
- Architect Renzo Piano is 88.
- Basketball Hall of Fame coach Larry Brown is 85.
- Actor Sam Neill is 78.
- Country singer John Berry is 66.
- Actor Melissa Leo is 65.
- Actor Faith Ford is 61.
- Film director Bong Joon-Ho is 56.
- Supreme Court justice Ketanji Brown Jackson is 55.
- Actor Kimberly Williams-Paisley is 54.
- Actor Andrew Lincoln is 52.
- Rapper Nas is 52.
- Olympic gold medal middle-distance runner Hicham El Guerrouj is 51.
- Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is 47.
- Chef/TV personality Katie Lee is 44.
- NBA All-Star Jimmy Butler is 36.
- Golfer Tony Finau is 36. Actor
- Emma Kenney is 26.
Bianchi: After 5 interceptions, DJ Lagway joins Billy Napier on UF’s hot seat
There are losses. Then there are the kind of soul-crushing and job-threatening losses that rob a fan base of all its hope.
Florida’s 20-10 loss at No. 3 LSU on Saturday night falls squarely into the latter category.
It wasn’t simply that the Gators lost to a really good team on the road. It was how they lost and, more importantly, who cost them the game.
Sophomore quarterback DJ Lagway — once hailed as the golden-armed prodigy who would rescue coach Billy Napier’s teetering tenure in Gainesville — threw five interceptions. Five! That’s the second-most in a game in Florida football history.
Lagway didn’t just have a bad night. He had an historically bad night — the kind of abysmal night that reshapes narratives, shifts futures and threatens to drag down not just one career but two.
Because now, in the aftermath of another loss that feels like we are back to writing weekly obituaries on the Napier era, we have to say something we thought we’d never, ever be saying:
We know Billy Napier’s job at UF is in jeopardy, but so, too, is DJ Lagway’s.
Lagway was supposed to be the savior. The one who arrived with a cannon arm, dual-threat ability and a charisma that could reset a program stumbling through mediocrity. Florida fans didn’t just want to believe in him; they needed to believe in him.
But what they got Saturday was a quarterback who looked lost, rattled and utterly overmatched. His five interceptions weren’t just mistakes; they were monumental blunders. Each one showcased a lack of vision, a lack of confidence and a lack of the polish expected from someone whom we thought might contend for the Heisman Trophy.
“I played horrible football,” Lagway admitted.
The low point came when LSU cornerback Dashawn Spears jumped a telegraphed throw and raced 58 yards down the sideline for a pick-six. Lagway could only chase helplessly.
And here’s the cruelest twist: LSU’s offense wasn’t even very good. In fact, it was pedestrian at best. The Gators had more yardage (366 to 316) than the Tigers, more than double the first downs (23 to 10) and held the ball more than 15 minutes longer.
And still, Florida lost by double digits.
Why? Because Lagway’s turnovers were fatal. Two of his interceptions led directly to LSU points, including Spears’ touchdown return. His final pick, a desperate heave in which it looked like he was trying to throw the ball out of bounds, sealed Florida’s fate with 4:51 to play.
Lagway ended the night 33 of 49 for 287 yards with one touchdown and those five damning interceptions. He was outplayed by LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier, who completed just 15 passes but made far fewer mistakes. Last week, Lagway was outplayed by USF’s Byrum Brown, who looked far more dynamic.
For Napier, this loss wasn’t just another mark in the “L” column. It was another hammer stroke to the nail in a coffin being built by his own hand.
He is now 20-21 at Florida. Of those 20 wins, six have come against non-Power 4 opponents. He’s 4-10 in true road games. He’s 0-forever against ranked opponents away from Gainesville.
That’s not a résumé. That’s a rap sheet.
And the excuses are evaporating. Last week’s shocking loss to USF — a program Miami hammered 49-12 on Saturday — looked like rock bottom. But now? It feels like a prelude to something even worse with No. 5 Miami, No. 7 Texas and No. 16 Texas A&M on deck.
Turnovers, substitution infractions, drive-killing penalties — the Gators are as sloppy as ever. This season alone, they’ve had three touchdowns erased by penalties. Against LSU, an 87-yard catch-and-run by running back Jadan Baugh was wiped out by a holding call. That’s not bad luck. That’s bad coaching.
And now there’s the Lagway dilemma. He hasn’t looked sharp all season. His passes are often high or behind receivers. His supposed dual-threat ability hasn’t materialized; he’s a reluctant runner who doesn’t stress defenses with his legs.
You can blame it on injuries, you can blame it on the pressure of all of his NIL endorsements, you can blame it on Napier’s unimaginative play-calling. But at some point, the quarterback has to make plays.
And now, instead of being the quarterback who saves Napier’s job, he may be the quarterback who costs his coach his job.
It’s not just that the Gators lost to the No. 3 team in the nation on the road Saturday night. That’s to be expected. It’s that the quarterback in whom they invested all their hope and faith almost single-handedly gifted the game to LSU. That’s what’s so demoralizing to Gator Nation.
And, so, here we are: Billy Napier on one hot seat, DJ Lagway on another, and the Florida program smoldering in between.
This was supposed to be the season where Napier proved he was more than a recruiter and culture-builder. This was supposed to be the season where Lagway took the leap from promising freshman to bona fide star.
Instead, it feels like a season where both of their careers in Gainesville could be slipping away.
Email me at mbianchi@orlandosentinel.com. Hit me up on social media @BianchiWrites and listen to my new radio show “Game On” every weekday from 3 to 6 p.m. on FM 96.9, AM 740 and 969TheGame.com/listen
Owens’ touchdowns lead Florida International to a 38-28 win over Florida Atlantic after delay
MIAMI (AP) — Kejon Owens ran for 173 yards and two touchdowns to lead Florida International to a 38-28 victory over Florida Atlantic in the Shula Bowl on Saturday night.
The win was Florida International’s first victory in the Shula Bowl — the annual meeting between the two sides — since 2016, a 33-31 win.
Keyone Jenkins was the other half of the Panthers’ offensive attack. He was 18 for 24 with 184 yards and a touchdown and he rushed for a touchdown.
Caden Veltkamp was 33 of 50 for 343 yards with two touchdowns and three interceptions. None of his interceptions resulted in scores for Florida International, but his final one ended Florida Atlantic’s hope of a comeback with 2:39 remaining.
FIU took advantage of an early turnover on downs, resulting in Owens’ opening score in the first quarter.
The Panthers opened the second half with three consecutive touchdown drives. Jenkins rushed for the first, threw for the second, and Anthony Carrie ran in the third.
FAU blocked a punt and returned it for a touchdown with 7:47 remaining.
The game was delayed more than two-and-a-half hours due to lightning.
Florida International improved to 2-1, ahead of its first Conference USA next week against Delaware. Florida Atlantic dropped to 1-2, with an American Athletic Conference opener next week against Memphis.
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Hurricanes will host College GameDay for first time since 2020
MIAMI GARDENS — They’re coming to your city.
ESPN’s College GameDay is coming to South Florida for the Hurricanes’ home game against Florida next Saturday, ESPN announced on social media. It is the first time College GameDay went to a Miami Hurricanes home game in five years.
College GameDay, the most popular college football pregame show, last came to Miami for a UM home game when the Hurricanes hosted Florida State on Sept. 26, 2020.
College GameDay last went to a road Miami game last year when the show traveled to Berkeley, California, for UM’s win over California.
The Hurricanes (3-0), coming off a blowout win over No. 18 USF, have made 25 appearances on College GameDay, and they are 16-9 in those games.
The Gators are 1-2 entering next week’s game after losing at home to USF last week and on the road to LSU this week.
SEE YOU NEXT WEEK, MIAMI!
DJ Lagway falls apart as Gators lose at No. 3 LSU
BATON ROUGE, La. — UF quarterback DJ Lagway watched helplessly as LSU cornerback Deshawn Spears raced past him down the sideline and into the end zone for a pick-six.
The worst night of Lagway’s brief collegiate career had hit a low point during a 20-10 loss Saturday night at Tiger Stadium.
Once considered a Heisman candidate, Lagway threw a career-high five interceptions — each displaying a shocking inability to see the field — to accentuate his sophomore slump and potentially begin Florida’s free fall under coach Billy Napier with a visit to No. 5 Miami coming up Saturday.
Coming off an 18-16 loss to USF they could ill afford, the Gators (1-2, 0-1 SEC) arrived at Tiger Stadium seeking their first win in Baton Rouge since 2016 and first victory under Napier against a ranked opponent away from the Swamp.
Bad blood began to boil early on a sweltering 90-degree day in Tiger Stadium. Twice the teams squared off and were separated during pregame warm-ups 90 minutes prior to kickoff.
Florida put up a fight as 6.5-point underdogs but could not overcome Lagway’s shaky decision-making and head-scratching risk-taking. With Tamarcus Cooley’s interception in the end zone with 6:26 remaining to end the Gators’ slim opens for a comeback, Lagway became the first Florida quarterback with four interceptions since Rex Grossman during a 2002 loss to LSU in the Swamp under Ron Zook.
After an LSU three-and-out, Lagway tossed interception No. 5 along the sideline to cornerback DJ Pickett to become the first Florida quarterback with that many picks since Shane Matthews during a 30-7 loss in 1992 at Mississippi State.
Aidan Mizell #11 of the Florida Gators catches a pass for a touchdown over Tamarcus Cooley #0 of the LSU Tigers at Tiger Stadium on Sept. 13, 2025 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)As they did against USF, the Gators also committed momentum-killing penalties that forced them to play behind the chains. The offensive line drew five flags, including two holding calls on guard Knijeah Harris. The first one wiped out an 87-yard touchdown from Lagway to tailback Jadan Baugh, who slipped behind the LSU defense — the third touchdown a penalty negated in two games.
UF finished with seven penalties for 57 yards a week after the Gators had 11 for 103.
With a sellout crowd of 102,158 looking on, the hometown Tigers had their own early struggles.
LSU opened with three consecutive three-and-outs and lost All-SEC linebacker Whit Weeks on the Tigers’ opening defensive series when officials flagged him for targeting Vernell Brown III. The penalty moved ball to LSU 29-yard line, leading to a 45-yard field goal by Trey Smack and a 3-0 lead.
LSU veteran quarterback Garrett Nussmeier came alive on the Tigers’ fifth possession after starting the game 1 of 5 for 7 yards.
Nussmeier and the Tigers found an advantage in the middle of the field and capitalized. He completed a 15-yard pass to Zavion Thomas on third-and-5 and a 23-yarder to Aaron Anders on third-and-8 to the UF 31.
Four plays later, Nussmeier found Thomas again, this time in the end zone for a 23-yard score and a 10-3 lead. The Gators generated no pressure on the play and ended the night without a sack after downing Nussmeier seven times during UF’s 27-16 home win in November.
Lagway answered with three third-down completions, including a perfectly thrown 10-yard fade to Aidan Mizell on third-and-9 to tie the game at 10-10 with 3:25 remaining in the first half. The play proved the sole highlight of the 20-year-old’s miserable night.
Edgar Thompson can be reached at egthompson@orlandosentinel.com
Toklomati hat trick pushes Charlotte past Inter Miami for ninth straight win
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Idan Toklomati recorded his first career hat trick, Kristijan Kahlina made three great saves to earn his 10th clean sheet of the season, and Charlotte beat Inter Miami 3-0 on Saturday night for its ninth straight regular-season victory.
Charlotte (17-11-2) tied Seattle’s 2018 MLS record for consecutive wins in a single season, excluding the shootout era.
Miami (13-6-7), which played its first regular-season match since Aug. 23, was without suspended striker Luis Suárez.
Kahlina denied Lionel Messi’s panenka attempt (a middle chip shot on a penalty kick) in the 32nd and Toklomati opened the scoring two minutes later.
Toklomati added another in the 47th on a redirection following Brandt Bronico’s nice centering pass.
After Miami dropped to 10-men following Tomás Avilés’ second yellow card in the 79th, Toklomati converted a penalty kick five minutes later for his 11th goal of the season.
Toklomati joined Andy Williams (1998) as the only players in MLS history aged 21 or younger to produce a goal contribution in seven-straight games. Toklomati also became the second player in Charlotte history to produce a regular-season hat trick, joining Daniel Ríos from 2022.
Charlotte head coach Dean Smith watched from the Bank of America Stadium stands due to suspension (yellow cards).
___
AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer
No. 5 Hurricanes cruise to blowout win over No. 18 USF
MIAMI GARDENS — USF has been one of the upstart teams early in the college football season.
Miami put an end to that.
Despite a long weather delay, the No. 5 Hurricanes (3-0) rolled to a 49-12 win over the No. 18 Bulls at Hard Rock Stadium on Saturday, picking up their second top-25 win in the first three weeks of the season.
“I think our guys, they didn’t want to be part of the narrative of somebody else’s success, (a) stepping stone kind of season,” Miami coach Mario Cristobal said. “That’s been the story all week. There was a lot of motivation going into this thing — besides the fact that they were a ranked football team, because I have a lot of respect for their coaches and their players — but it’s an in-state game, and those things you have to play at your very best because you’re never all the way out of these games. And our guys really took it personal to not let anything get in the way of doing their job.”
The Hurricanes marched down the field on their first drive, capping a nine-play, 75-yard drive with an 8-yard touchdown pass from Carson Beck to West Broward High alum Josh Moore. The catch was Moore’s first of his college career.
Moore did not need to wait much longer to get his second career touchdown. He scored on a 39-yard pass from Beck on Miami’s second drive of the game, putting the Hurricanes ahead 14-0.
USF narrowed the deficit with a 45-yard field goal by Nico Gramatica, who kicked the game-winning field goal against Florida last week.
The teams endured a weather delay that lasted 102 minutes, and the Bulls came out firing once the delay ended. Byrum Brown hit Chas Nimrod for a 52-yard pass that put USF deep in Miami territory, but the Hurricanes held the Bulls to another field goal.
Miami one-upped USF when it had its first drive after the delay, driving down the field and scoring on a 38-yard run by Mark Fletcher Jr.
“Every single time I get the ball, coach (Matt) Merritt says, ‘Every time you get that ball, you’re carrying the team on your back,'” Fletcher said. “So I just take very much pride in that.”
Although Brown is the touted dual-threat quarterback, Beck beat him to the end zone, scoring a 2-yard touchdown run that put UM ahead 28-6 late in the first half.
Miami got the ball back with less than two minutes until halftime. Although CJ Daniels made another excellent catch during the drive, the Bulls got a rare pressure on Carson Beck, who floated his first interception of the year to USF defensive back Jarvis Lee. But UM’s defense forced a three-and-out on the subsequent drive.
Beck threw a second interception on a tipped pass, but it again did not hurt Miami. Safety Jakobe Thomas forced Brown to fumble when scrambling, and Miami took possession.
Fletcher continued his strong performance this season with a second touchdown, scoring from 13 yards out to put the Hurricanes up 35-6 at the end of the third quarter.
The Bulls did score their first touchdown of the game early in the fourth quarter on a 12-yard touchdown pass from Brown to Christian Neptune, but it was too late for USF to claw its way back into the game.
Beck added a third touchdown on a 1-yard pass to running back Marty Brown, putting Miami ahead by 30 points, and the Hurricanes started rotating in their reserve players. Freshman running back Girard Pringle Jr. scored the second touchdown of his career to put an exclamation point on the win.
Five takeaways 1. Hurricanes looked focusedEntering the year, the Hurricanes had two premier non-conference games: the opener vs. Notre Dame and a Week 4 contest against Florida. USF was an afterthought. When the Bulls beat UF last week, this game skyrocketed in prominence.
The Hurricanes did not overlook the Bulls at all. Miami came out firing, scoring on its first two drives. Even after a long weather delay, the Hurricanes kept scoring. Although the Bulls entered the game as the national college football darling, Miami made sure to put an end to that storyline for now.
2. Defense shuts down BrownBrown is a talented dual-threat quarterback, but the Hurricanes bottled him up.
Brown ended the game completing 56 percent of his passes — his lowest completion percentage of the year — for 274 yards. He also rushed for only 2 total yards (including sacks), which is also his lowest total of the year.
We knew their game plan is really much revolves around him,” defensive lineman Akheem Mesidor said. “He makes that offense go. All of our focus on was on just containing him, knocking the pocket back and just trying to keep him in the pocket and force him to throw the ball.”
3. Mark Fletcher Jr. pounds the rockFletcher has been the Hurricanes’ top running back through three games, and he continued rolling over defenders in the win on Saturday.
Fletcher averaged 7.5 yards per carry, plowing the way to two touchdowns for the second straight game. His 120 yards were the second-most of his career.
4. Josh Moore breaks outMoore, a standout freshman out of West Broward High, looked impressive in practice for Miami. On Saturday, he showed his promise.
The 6-foot-4 receiver caught his first touchdown pass on a crossing route to end Miami’s first drive. On the next one, he caught a deep pass for a score, fending off good coverage for the 39-yard score.
“He’s gifted beyond measure,” Cristobal said. “He’s certainly (an) unbelievable human being, a great upbringing, great parents, hard worker, spends a ton of time and benefits a ton from being around CJ Daniels and Keelan Marion.”
5. Defense gets off the fieldThe Hurricanes did a good job ending USF drives. The Bulls were just 7 of 18 on third downs and 0 of 2 on fourth downs.
Miami got a key stop on fourth down inside its own 10-yard line in the third quarter. The Hurricanes went down the field and scored on the ensuing drive, effectively ending the game.
