High school football: Thursday's scores

This weekend, college football fans can look forward to an exciting matchup as Notre Dame hosts USC for Week 8 of the NCAA season. It's a significant game that not only showcases two storied programs but also has implications for rankings and bowl eligibility. If you're a fan or just curious about college football, make sure to tune in and catch the action.

In an exciting matchup, Burnley faces Leeds in a live football event, where both teams are eager to secure crucial points early in the season. This game is significant as it showcases the competitive spirit of the newly promoted teams, and fans are keen to see how they perform against each other. The outcome could have implications for their standings and morale moving forward.

Mohamed Salah, the star forward for Liverpool, seems to be experiencing a decline in his performance, and Jamie Carragher has outlined four key reasons for this change. This situation is significant as it raises concerns about Salah's impact on the team's success and the potential implications for Liverpool's season. Fans and analysts alike are eager to understand what might be affecting one of the Premier League's top players.

The UCLA Bruins surprised everyone by defeating Penn State, raising questions about their potential performance against Indiana and Ohio State. This unexpected victory has sparked discussions among fans and analysts about whether UCLA can continue this momentum and achieve further success in their upcoming games. It's an exciting time for Bruins supporters as they hope for another thrilling outcome.

Chelsea fans are feeling anxious as the team faces Nottingham Forest, especially with the mysterious update regarding their £80 million star player. The uncertainty surrounding the lineup raises concerns about injuries and team performance, which could impact their chances in the Premier League. This situation is crucial as it not only affects the current match but also the team's overall season prospects.

Manchester United is gearing up for a significant January transfer window, with plans to invest £70 million in a new central midfielder. This move is seen as crucial for reshaping their midfield and enhancing the team's performance. Fans are excited about the potential impact of this signing, as it reflects the club's commitment to strengthening their squad and competing at the highest level.

Iowa football is set to host a highly anticipated game against Penn State this Saturday, and on top of that, they will welcome the state's top 2028 recruit for a visit. This is significant as it not only showcases Iowa's competitive spirit on the field but also highlights their efforts to attract young talent, which could shape the future of the program.

Pep Guardiola emphasizes the importance of mental stability for young players like Nico O'Reilly at Manchester City. He believes that maintaining a strong mental state is crucial for success in football, especially for rising talents. This focus on mental health is significant as it highlights the growing recognition of psychological well-being in sports, which can lead to better performance and overall player development.

Freddy Peralta, the ace of the Milwaukee Brewers, expressed a mix of pride and uncertainty about his future with the team after their disappointing exit from the 2025 postseason, following a sweep by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NLCS. His candid reflections highlight the emotional connection players have with their city and the harsh realities of professional baseball, where success can be fleeting. This moment is significant as it raises questions about the team's direction and Peralta's role moving forward.

Texas Tech's quarterback Will Hammond is set to start in place of Behren Morton for the upcoming game against Arizona State. This change comes as Hammond has seen action in five of the Red Raiders' six games this season, showcasing his readiness to step up. The decision highlights the team's strategy as they aim to secure a win in this crucial matchup.

Ange Postecoglou has been dismissed from his role as head coach of Nottingham Forest after only eight games, following a disappointing 3-0 loss to Chelsea. This swift decision highlights the club's urgent need for improvement and stability, as they seek to turn around their fortunes in the league. The change in leadership raises questions about the team's direction and the challenges ahead.

Ethan Grunkemeyer is set to make his debut as the starting quarterback for the Penn State Nittany Lions in their upcoming game against Iowa. This is an exciting moment for both Grunkemeyer and the team, as fans are eager to see how he performs in this crucial matchup. His first start could be a pivotal moment in the season, showcasing his skills and potential to lead the team.

The Scarlets continue to struggle in the United Rugby Championship, remaining winless after a disappointing loss to the Lions in Johannesburg. This defeat keeps them at the bottom of the league, raising concerns about their performance and future prospects in the tournament.

Afghanistan has decided to withdraw from an upcoming cricket series following reports that local players were killed in a recent airstrike in Pakistan. This decision highlights the ongoing tensions in the region and raises concerns about the safety of athletes amidst military operations. The Pakistani government claims the strike was aimed at militants, denying any civilian casualties, but the impact on sports and community morale is significant. This situation not only affects the cricketing ties between the two nations but also underscores the broader implications of conflict on cultural exchanges.