The 2024 College Football Playoff has hit the second round. A new, expanded 12-team bracket began with byes for four teams and four first-round games hosted by Texas football, Penn State, Notre Dame and Ohio State. The byes belonged to Oregon, the top seed and winner of the Big Ten; Georgia, which won the SEC title game and grabbed the No. 2 seed; Boise State was No. 3 as the nation’s top Group of Five team and Mountain West Champion. Arizona rounded out the byes thanks to a Big 12 title. The action culminates in the national title game Jan. 20 at Mercedes Benz in Atlanta. That stadium is also hosting the Peach Bowl between Arizona State and fifth-seeded Texas. CFP games this postseason will be streamed on a combination of channels, including ESPN, TNT, ABC and more. Here are all the results and the full schedule for the College Football Playoff: RELATED:How playing Cade Klubnik, Clemson will help Texas in College Football Playoff run MORE FROM THE AAS:College Football Playoff predictions: Our full 2024 bracket selections Follow the American-Statesman on Facebook and X for more. Your subscription makes work like this possible. Get access to all of our best content with this tremendous offer. We occasionally recommend interesting products and services. If you make a purchase by clicking one of the links, we may earn an affiliate fee. USA TODAY Network newsrooms operate independently, and this doesn’t influence our coverage.
The Early Line WATCH LISTEN NFL CFB NBA WNBA MLB NHL All Sports Picks Casino More Oh, boy – have I got some festive crackers ready and waiting for you today! As you read on, you’ll soon unwrap five free Christmas slots that you can play at the best social casinos in December. I’ll ensure that I cover all the basics, including the RTP, volatility, grid layout, and the sort of gameplay you can expect. Plus, I’ll be sure to give you a quick breakdown of the welcome offers available at each social casino site to ensure that you can get yourself up and running in time for Christmas. Over at HelloMillions, I found that you can get things started with a welcome bonus that is made up of 15,000 Gold Coins and 2.5 free Sweeps Coins. However, a new customer purchase promo also promises to add an extra 150% to your first $9.99 Gold Coin package purchase. With your account now locked and loaded with a serious amount of virtual tokens, it is time to check out some of the latest free online slots to play with bonus. I headed straight to the ‘themed’ section to discover ‘Christmas Wins’. This is a seasonal slot that is considered highly volatile. It comes fresh from Red Rake Gaming and has an RTP of 95.3%.
Without needing to use one of my social casino promo codes, I found that you could soon unlock 10,000 Gold Coins and 3 free Sweeps Coins over at PlayFame. This is more than enough to start getting familiar with the seasonal title here, including my personal favorite: Santa’s Inn. The game itself comes to you from Habanero and has an RTP of 96.7%. It is considered another highly volatile Vegas-style slot and is not featured in PlayFame’s eligible jackpot games. This three-reeler may not be the flashiest of games, but those big wins couldn’t be any cooler when Santa pops up to steal your reel with his shades on.
Next, we have one of the best sweepstakes casinos in 2024. Again, you can pick up a free-to-release promo within minutes, allowing you to play with fun or promotional play as the focus. Just bear in mind that 7,500 GC and 2.5 free SC isn’t the biggest head start. Fortunately, MegaBonanza soon makes up for this with a stream of ongoing offers and a lobby that boasts 800+ titles. During this festive season, you’ll also find SlotMill’s ‘Brew Brothers’. This five-reeler is a great free Christmas slot with an RTP of 96.14%. Again, it is considered highly volatile and comes with a 15,000x mega multiplier attached. The graphics and soundboard soon get you in the Christmas spirit, taking you right to the door of the ‘Brew Brothers’ den. Covered in snow, you’ll find that tankards acting as a ‘Wild’ are the key to keeping your virtual pots warm.
Now, it is time to check out Zula Casino. Here, you can soon release 50,000 Gold Coins and 5 free Sweeps Coins by simply registering and verifying your account via an OTC sent to your smartphone. Once authorized, you’ll then open the doors to a social casino with over 1,200 casino-style games. Of course, this includes a few seasonal titles. Of which, my personal favorite is ‘Santa the Slayer’ from Mancala Gaming. It may not have the same jovial twist that becomes expected of seasonal Vegas-style slots; however, it certainly has the RTP (95%) and multipliers (5,082x) attached. I wish you well as you take on miracle Snowman, Jack Frost, Krampus, and Frau Perchta in this five-reeler.
Finally, I want to take a closer look at RealPrize. As a new member, you can soon get your hands on 100,000 Gold Coins and 2.5 free Sweeps Coins by flying through the registration process. Then, it is a simple case of filtering through the 300-strong library of games before selecting my seasonal favorite, ‘Xmas Unwrapped’. Although not strictly a free Christmas slot, this seasonal casino-style game certainly deserves a mention. Here, you’ll set your spin value and click ‘Play’ before attempting to open up the next present. Anything that unwraps will be added to your virtual tokens. I think it is simple, fun, and it is also packed with plenty of in-game features – what’s not to love?
Research & Development World By Heather Hall | The Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian (CfA) and the U.S. National Science Foundation’s National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NSF NRAO) have announced a new collaboration to advance the Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) into space. This next-generation effort, called the Black Hole Explorer (BHEX) mission, aims to improve black hole imaging by combining ground-based radio antennas with a space-based telescope. Artist concept of the proposed BHEX network. The EHT gained international acclaim in 2019 with the first-ever image of a black hole, followed by a 2022 image of the supermassive black hole at the center of the Milky Way. The BHEX mission will expand this work, enabling scientists to produce the most detailed images of black holes to date, including the elusive photon ring — the light that orbits a black hole’s edge before escaping. “This collaboration with NRAO marks a significant step forward in our quest to understand the nature of black holes,” said Dr. Michael Johnson, principal investigator for BHEX at the CfA. “By extending the EHT to space, we’ll be able to study dozens of black holes and unravel the mysteries of how they power the brightest engines in the universe.” Credit: Jee Seymour. The NSF Green Bank Telescope. The partnership, officially launched this month, focuses on integrating space-based observations with NRAO’s advanced ground-based facilities, such as the NSF Green Bank Telescope (GBT), the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA), and the proposed Next Generation Very Large Array (ngVLA). These facilities will serve as ground anchors for the BHEX space-VLBI (Very Long Baseline Interferometry) mission, offering unprecedented resolution in black hole studies. “NRAO leads and operates some of the most sensitive radio observatories in the world, making for a perfect partnership with the CfA to make this hybrid radio observatory happen,” said Sara Issaoun, a Submillimeter Array Fellow at the CfA and the BHEX Science Operations Lead. “By combining space-based and ground-based observations, we’ll be able to achieve unprecedented resolution and gain new insights into these cosmic phenomena.” The partnership aims to foster collaboration, resource sharing, and technical innovation between the CfA and NSF NRAO. It also includes efforts to upgrade ground-based instruments and infrastructure to support the mission’s ambitious goals. Dr. Tony Beasley, director of the NSF NRAO, highlighted the mission’s potential: “With the support of the NSF and administration from Associated Universities, Inc., NRAO can position itself as a major partner in the ground network of this unique hybrid observatory.” “The Center for Astrophysics aims to answer humanity’s unresolved questions about the universe. Every day, our scientists are pushing the envelope on what’s possible,” said Dr. Lisa Kewley, director of the CfA. “We look forward to working with NRAO as longtime leaders in radio astronomy. With this new partnership, together we will redefine the boundary of our knowledge about black holes.” The NSF NRAO will also lead discussions with international partners, including ALMA collaborators, to expand the mission’s global reach. The partnership will set the stage for a new era in black hole imaging and astrophysical discovery by combining resources and expertise.
ROCHESTER, N.Y. – Rochester Regional Health is changing its policy on non-emergency, outpatient surgeries. According to an internal staff email obtained by News10NBC, patients will have to pay 100% of their share before the surgery starting January 2, 2025. The policy has been in place at Unity Hospital for five years, but it will now extend to RGH, Newark-Wayne Hospital, Clifton Springs Hospital, and United Memorial Medical Center in Batavia. In the email to staff, Rochester Regional says it has $400,000 of unpaid bills from outpatient surgeries in the last month. “(The) vast majority are full deductible and/or co-insurance with no upfront or later payments ever being made,” the email says. It also states Rochester Regional is “looking to be financially responsible and capture patient responsibility portions prior to services as we currently request in the practices.” Rochester Regional provided an example to News10NBC: “If a patient’s portion of responsibility after we contact their insurance is $2000, they will be responsible for paying $2,000 prior to the surgery or they could pay a minimum of 25% (IN THIS CASE, 500 DOLLARS) and enter into a no-interest payment plan to pay the remainder. Under both scenarios, the end cost is the same for patients.” While this pay upfront policy is legal in New York, the state health department told News10NBC, “Hospitals cannot deny patients admission, treatment or services that are reasonably believed to be medically necessary because of an unpaid bill.” The Rochester Regional email states any surgery deemed medically necessary “will move forward… as currently practiced.” If not, it will be “rescheduled” to figure out a way to pay. Rochester Regional says under its policy, it does not sue patients for unpaid bills. UR Medicine does not collect money prior to surgeries from patients with insurance. If there’s no insurance, UR Medicine asks for 50% of a patient’s fee. Both systems say they offer generous financial help. However, State Senator Liz Kruger, Chair of the Finance Committee and author of a bill that caps the cost of outpatient hospital charges, sees two issues. One is defining what falls under “emergency” or “medically necessary.” Liz Kruger, Chair of Finance Committee, NYS Senate: “And then the other variation is people think – ‘oh, what is a co-pay? It’s $20.’ No.” Sen. Kruger says 700,000 New Yorkers have high deductible insurance plans. Liz Kruger: “Who’s got $18,000 to pay for some kind of surgery that might not be emergency like opening up your heart and saving your life but could be surgery on your back, surgery on a hernia.” Berkeley Brean, News10NBC: “You think this is going to come up at your hearings in January and February?” Liz Kruger: “Only if people come and bring it to us. It turns out there was an attempt to now allow this in a state law that did not get done in previous years. And I’m certainly going to be talking to the chair of the health committee in both houses.” A.I. assisted with the formatting of this story. Click here to see how WHEC News 10 uses A.I.
Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 23: Chairman Team Jammu Zorawar Singh Jamwal today emphasized that devotion and spirituality are powerful tools to guide the youth away from drugs and towards a life of purpose and positivity. Zorawar was addressing during the ongoing nine-day-long Shree Gou Gopal Mahayagya held here today, Speaking on the occasion, Zorawar stated, “Drug addiction is a growing menace that destroys lives and the very fabric of society. A life rooted in devotion and spirituality not only keeps us away from harmful influences but also provides the inner strength and clarity needed to face life’s challenges. The teachings of great saints like Shri Dawarika Nath Shastri Ji Maharaj remind us of the importance of self-discipline, service, and spiritual growth as the foundation for a meaningful life.” “Devotion to higher values and a connection with the divine can fill the void that often leads people to substance abuse. A spiritual lifestyle keeps the mind focused, the body healthy and the soul at peace,” he said. Zorawar also appreciated Gangadhar Ji Maharaj for organising such a mega religious and spiritual programme every year and urged the youth to embrace spiritual practices such as prayer, meditation and community service to cultivate resilience and purpose. The Shree Gou Gopal Mahayagya, held to commemorate the birth anniversary of Shri Dawarika Nath Shastri Ji Maharaj, brought together devotees and spiritual leaders from across the region. The event featured spiritual discourses, devotional practices, and community initiatives, embodying the saint’s ideals of compassion, harmony and service. As a subscriber, you will have full access to all of our Newsletters and News Bulletins. Designed Developed & Hosted by Pugmarks.
24 December 2024 Time taken to read : 7 Minute Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana (L) with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi/File photo KATHMANDU: Following Prime Minister KP Oli’s visit to China on December 5, speculation about his upcoming visit to India emerged, but uncertainty remained regarding the timeline. Meanwhile, Nepal’s Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana’s recent visit to India has garnered attention, especially since she arrived in New Delhi directly from Europe. However, the reception in New Delhi has been less than warm. Dr. Rana attended the Nepal-India Economic Conference in New Delhi last Friday, organized by the Foundation for Economic and Welfare in collaboration with Kathmandu University. The event aimed to foster dialogue between leaders and investors from both countries. In her address, Dr. Rana emphasized the deep and longstanding relationship between Nepal and India, particularly in trade and commerce, and encouraged Indian investors to invest in Nepal, highlighting the potential for bilateral growth. Prime Minister Oli’s political situation is not only shaped by his relationship with Delhi but also by his internal party dynamics, particularly with Nepali Congress (NC) leader Sher Bahadur Deuba. Despite the presence of Indian policymakers and investors, the reception was notably subdued. The reluctance of Indian leadership to engage with the Nepalese delegation raised questions about the state of bilateral relations. Indian authorities, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar, avoided formal meetings with Minister Rana. Sources suggest that India is hesitant to involve itself in Nepal’s internal affairs, particularly given the ongoing political instability in Nepal. Concerns about shifts in alliances and broader geopolitical changes in South Asia may have led to India’s cautious approach. Analysts believe India is refraining from engaging with Nepal’s current leadership due to the uncertainties surrounding the country’s political landscape. The lack of enthusiasm in Delhi signals growing diplomatic strain between the two neighboring countries. India has shown little interest in the current political alliance led by Prime Minister Oli. In 2079 BS, India had hoped for a stable relationship with the Nepali Congress and the Maoist Center, but the political landscape in Nepal shifted unexpectedly. Prime Minister Prachanda’s return to power, in alliance with the UML, resulted in a new political formation, with the UML and other factions working to create a new alignment. Observers have to note that Prime Minister Oli’s visit to China and Nepal’s involvement in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) have contributed to growing dissatisfaction in India. While PM Oli previously maintained a close relationship with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, sources suggest India has become increasingly disillusioned with Oli’s dual stance. On one hand, Oli made internal commitments, but on the other, his foreign policy, particularly with China, has caused concern in New Delhi. This inconsistency has strained relations between India and Nepal, with more attention focused on short-term tensions than on long-term diplomatic relations. Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Dr. Rana has been under pressure, with Prime Minister Oli’s visit to India remaining uncertain. Oli now faces multiple pressures, both internally and externally. Internally, his party is divided, with demands for leadership changes and the adoption of a new party statute. However, Oli is reluctant to relinquish his position, and some believe a new faction could emerge within his party to challenge his leadership. Meanwhile, his government’s handling of the BRI and other issues has made relations with the Nepali Congress, especially its chairman Sher Bahadur Deuba, increasingly strained. Externally, the Indian side remains cautious about Nepal’s political shifts and the ongoing concerns about the BRI agreement, which has caused discontent within political circles. Public dissatisfaction with the government is also growing, with increasing criticism over corruption, the deepening economic crisis, and the lack of progress on key issues. The government’s inability to address these challenges has made Prime Minister Oli’s position even more vulnerable. As he struggles with political setbacks, Prime Minister Oli has made statements that some view as self-sabotaging. Oli’s remarks have raised eyebrows, particularly his comparisons between current political alliances and past royal family formations, which have stirred controversy. In his latest statements, Oli hinted at the need for a new coalition and criticized the existing government’s inability to govern effectively. Nepali Congress leaders like Shekhar Koirala and General Secretary Gagan Kumar Thapa have openly criticized Oli’s administration. These remarks, along with his past political missteps, suggest that Oli’s political future is increasingly uncertain. Meanwhile, the ongoing tensions within his party and the growing discontent from the public make it unclear how long Oli can maintain his grip on power. Prime Minister Oli’s political situation is not only shaped by his relationship with Delhi but also by his internal party dynamics, particularly with Nepali Congress (NC) leader Sher Bahadur Deuba. Deuba, who is often seen as the ‘waiting prime minister,’ is biding his time, observing how the political landscape evolves. Deuba’s approach could unfold in two possible directions. One scenario is that he may continue to wait alongside Oli for the next 18 months. However, according to some sources, Deuba’s stance could shift, and it wouldn’t be surprising if he decides to realign with other political forces sooner than expected, given the growing pressure. This shift could be reflected in the increasing dissatisfaction with the Oli government. Nepali Congress leaders like Shekhar Koirala and General Secretary Gagan Kumar Thapa have openly criticized Oli’s administration. Koirala, in particular, has pointed out that the Oli government has failed to fulfill the commitments made in the 7-point agreement. Such expressions of discontent from within the Nepali Congress are signaling a potential shift in political alignments. Publish Date : 24 December 2024 06:04 AM
The four games of the first round of the College Football Playoff averaged 10.6 million viewers across ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, TNT, TBS and truTV (plus streaming) on Friday and Saturday.
Being the first year of the expanded CFP, there are no comps to a prior first round. But the average for the four games in this year’s first round was 31% higher than the average for the four non-semifinal games within the “New Year’s Six” last season (Cotton, Peach, Orange, Fiesta). None of those games had playoff implications, and were played on Dec. 29, 2023, Dec. 30, 2023 and Jan. 1 of this year (all on ESPN with no simulcasts or alt-casts for an average of 8.1 million viewers).
The top game from the first round was easily Ohio State-Penn State on Saturday in primetime with 14.3 million viewers across ABC, ESPN and ESPN2. That’s the second-best CFB game this season, behind only the 16.6 million viewers for the Georgia-Texas SEC Championship on ABC/ESPN on Dec. 7. On Friday night, Notre Dame-Indiana drew 13.4 million viewers, which is the third-best CFB game this season after passing the 13.2 million for the first UGA-Texas meeting back on Oct. 19 on ABC.
On Saturday afternoon, up against NFL action on NBC, Texas’ win over Clemson averaged 8.6 million viewers across TNT, TBS and truTV (includes streaming on Max). That figure is the best on record for a college football game on TNT Sports networks, topping the 1996 CarQuest Bowl, and is also the company’s best sports audience ever in December. Earlier on Saturday, up against NFL action on Fox, the Penn State-SMU first round game drew 6.4 million viewers (same three networks), which is TNT Sports’ second-best CFB audience on record.
As a reference point: none of the first-round games came close to averaging what a CFP semifinal drew dating back to the start of the playoff for the 2014-2015 season. The lowest semifinal game under the prior format was 15.7 million on ESPN/ESPN2 for Clemson-Oklahoma in the Orange Bowl semi back in 2016-2016 season.
The average for the four CFP first round games also, as expected, did not draw better than the averages for any of the New Year’s Six bowl games since the start of the CFP system. The low under that setup was just under 11 million viewers during the pandemic season of 2020-21.
For a college basketball comparison, the four games of the CFP first round were slightly higher than what the four games of the men’s Elite 8 drew in March Madness last season across TBS and CBS (10.6 million for CFP vs. 10.4 million for college hoops regional finals).
Figures for the NFL games that went up against the CFP on Saturday afternoon will be available on Tuesday, but early figures showed that both the Fox and NBC telecasts easily beat all CFP first round games.
Start your morning with Buzzcast with Austin Karp: How did the First Round of the CFP perform? The PGA of America taps a new leader, NASCAR is non-committal about the future of Chicago street racing and JuJu Watkins vs. Paige Bueckers lives up to the hype. Shareable URL copied to clipboard! https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Articles/2024/12/23/college-football-playoff-first-round-ratings Sorry, something went wrong with the copy but here is the link for you. https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Articles/2024/12/23/college-football-playoff-first-round-ratings Register for a free SBJ account to unlock one extra article per month.
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