Philadelphia Eagles (7-7) vs Dallas Cowboys (7-7)

The Eagles welcome the Cowboys to the friendly confines of Lincoln Financial Field with the division on the line. A win for Eagles keeps their playoffs hopes alive for another week, while a win for the Cowboys would cliche the division. While it looked the Cowboys hit their stride last week against a tough Rams team, the Eagles struggled against the 3-11 Redskins. The Eagles will need to play better this week week especially on the defensive side of the ball where Jim Schwartz’s Cover-1 scheme has struggled in shutting down opponents passing attacks. If the Eagles can’t put together a complete game from the offense and defense, they could see themselves playing a meaningless game next week and some of the coaching staff could be looking for the jobs in the offseason. Go Birds!

General Information
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Date
Sunday, December 22nd, 2019

Game Time	Game Location
4:25 PM - Eastern	Lincoln Financial Field
3:25 PM - Central	1020 Pattison Ave
2:25 PM - Mountain	Philadelphia, PA 19148
1:25 PM - Pacific	Wikipedia - Map

Weather Forecast
Stadium Type: Open Air
Surface: Grass
Temperature: 42°F
Feels Like: 39°F
Forecast: Partly Cloudy. Mostly cloudy throughout the day.
Chance of Precipitation: 0%
Cloud Coverage: 32%
Wind: Southwest 4 MPH

Betting Odds
Oddsshark Information
Favorite/Opening Line: Dalaas -1.5
OveUnder: 49
Record VS. Spread: Eagles 5-9, Cowboys 8-6

Where to Watch on TV
FOX will broadcast Sunday’s game to a national audience. Joe Buck will handle the play-by-play duties and Troy Aikman will provide analysis. Erin Andrews will report from the sideline.
TV Map - Week 16 TV Coverage Map

Internet Streams
NFL Streams - Look here 30 minutes before the game for Streams

Radio Streams
Disclaimer: Subscription Based Official NFL Radio Streams available via TuneIn
List of Eagles Radio network member stations with internet broadcast availability
Radio.com 94.1 Desktop Streaming

Listen to Merrill Reese and Mike Quick
Calling the game on 94WIP and the Eagles Radio Network will be Merrill Reese, the NFL’s longest-tenured play-by-play announcer (42nd season). Joining Reese in the radio booth will be former Eagles All-Pro wide receiver Mike Quick, while Howard Eskin will report from the sidelines.

Location	Station	Frequency
Philadelphia, PA	WIP-FM	94.1 FM and 610 AM
Allentown, PA	WCTO-FM	96.1 FM
Atlantic City/South Jersey	WENJ-FM	97.3 FM
Levittown, PA	WBCB-AM	1490 AM
Northumberland, PA	WEGH-FM	107.3 FM
Pottsville, PA	WPPA-AM	1360 AM
Reading, PA	WEEU-AM	830 AM
Salisbury/Ocean City, MD	WAFL-FM	97.7 FM
Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, PA	WEJL-FM	96.1 FM
Salisbury/Ocean City, MD	WAFL-FM	97.7 FM
Salisbury/Ocean City, MD	WEJL-AM	630 AM
Salisbury/Ocean City, MD	WBAX-AM	1240 AM
Williamsport, PA	WBZD-FM	93.3 FM
Wilmington, DE	WDEL-FM/AM	101.7 FM
York/LancasteHarrisburg, PA	WSOX-FM	96.1 FM

Philadelphia Spanish Radio
Rickie Ricardo, Macu Berral and Gus Salazar will handle the broadcast in Spanish on Mega 105.7 FM in Philadelphia and the Eagles Spanish Radio Network.

Location	Station	Frequency
Philadelphia, PA	LA MEGA	105.7 FM
Allentown, PA	WSAN	1470 AM
Atlantic City, NJ	WIBG	1020 AM; 101.3 FM

Dallas Radio

Dallas Cowboys Radio Network Brad Sham returns for his 41st season in the Dallas Cowboys radio booth. Beloved by Cowboys fans, Sham's award winning play-by-play has provided the soundtrack to many of the most memorable moments in Dallas Cowboys history. Babe Laufenberg returns as the Network's full-time color analyst. A fixture on the sideline, veteran reporter Kristi Scales provides instant updates from the field.

National Radio
SportsUSA will broadcast the game to a national audience with Josh Appel on play-by-play and Brandon Noble providing analysis.

Satellite Radio

Station	Eagles Channel	Cowboys Channel
Sirius Radio	SIRI 83 (Internet 825)	SIRI 121 (Internet 808)
XM Radio	XM 226 (Internet 825)	XM 226 (Internet 808)
Sirius XM Radio	SXM 226 (Internet 825)	SXM 381 (Internet 808)

Eagles Social Media	Cowboys Social Media
Website	Website
Facebook	Facebook
Twitter	Twitter
Instagram	Instagram
Snapchat: Eagles	Snapchat: cowboys

NFC East Standings

NFC EAST	Record	PCT	Home	Road	Div	Conf	PF	PA	Net Pts	Streak
Eagles	7-7	.500	4-3	3-4	4-0	6-4	378	288	+90	1W
Cowboys	7-7	.500	4-3	3-4	3-1	5-5	334	328	+6	2W
Giants	3-11	.214	2-5	1-6	1-3	2-8	283	382	-99	W1
Redskins	3-11	.214	1-5	2-5	0-4	2-8	215	347	-132	2L

Series Information
The Dallas Cowboys lead the Philadelphia Eagles (69-52)
Series History
Head to Head Box Scores
First Game Played
September 30th, 1960 at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, TX. Dallas Cowboys 25 - Philadelphia Eagles 27
Points Leader
The Dallas Cowboys lead the Philadelphia Eagles (2641-2384)
Coaches Record
Doug Pederson: 2-5 against the Cowboys
Jason Garrett: 11-8 against Eagles
Coaches Head to Head
Doug Pederson vs Jason Garrett: Garrett leads 5-2
Quarterback Record
Carson Wentz: Against Cowboys: 2-4
Dak Prescott: Against Eagles: 5-2
Quarterbacks Head to Head
Carson Wentz vs Dak Prescott: Prescott leads 4-2
Records per Stadium
Record @ Lincoln Financial Field: Cowboys lead the Eagles: 10-6
Record @ AT&T Stadium: Series tied: 6-6

Rankings and Last Meeting Information
AP Pro 32 Ranking
Eagles No. 12 - Cowboys No. 15
2019 Record
Eagles: 7-7
Cowboys 7-7

Last 10 Meetings

Date	Winner	Loser	Score
10/20/2019	Cowboys	Eagles	37-10
12/9/2018	Cowboys	Eagles	29-23
11/11/2018	Cowboys	Eagles	27-20
12/31/2017	Cowboys	Eagles	6-0
11/19/2017	Eagles	Cowboys	37-9
1/1/2017	Eagles	Cowboys	27-13
10/30/2016	Cowboys	Eagles	29-23
11/8/2015	Eagles	Cowboys	33-27
9/20/2015	Cowboys	Eagles	20-10
12/14/2014	Cowboys	Eagles	38-27

Injury Reports	Depth Charts
Eagles	Eagles
Cowboys	Cowboys

2019 “Expert” Picks
Week 16 - "Expert" Picks

2019 Team Stats
Eagles Season Stats
Cowboys Season Stats

2019 Stats (Starters/Leaders)

Passing

Name	CMP	ATT	PCT	YDS	TD	INT	RAT
Wentz	334	527	63.4%	3421	25	7	92.3
Prescott	340	519	65.5%	4334	26	11	99.3

Rushing

Name	ATT	YDS	YDS/G	AVG	TD
Sanders	150	687	49.1	4.6	2
Elliott	270	1188	84.9	4.4	11

Receiving

Name	REC	YDS	YDS/G	AVG	TD
Ertz	84	888	63.4	10.1	6
Cooper	71	1073	76.6	15.1	8

Sacks

Name	Sacks	Team Total
Graham	7.5	37
Quinn	9.5	36

Tackles

Name	Total	Solo	Assist	Sacks
McLeod	71	42	29	1.0
Smith	125	78	47	2.5

Interceptions

Name	Ints	Team Total
Gerry/McLeod/Darby	2	10
Woods/Lewis	2	6

Punting

Name	ATT	YDS	LONG	AVG	NET	IN 20	TB	BP
Johnston	22	1039	60	47.2	44.3	12	0	0
Jones	60	1780	61	47.1	42.9	24	4	0

Kicking

Name	ATT	MADE	%	LONG	PAT
Elliot	21	19	90.5%	53	29/31
Forbath	3	3	100%	50	5/5

Kick Returns

Name	ATT	YDS	AVG	LONG	TD
Sanders	14	314	22.4	67	0
Pollard	10	147	14.7	28	0

Punt Returns :-|:-:|:-:|:-:|:-:|:-:|:-: Name|RET|YDS|AVG|LONG|TD|FC Scott|6|44|7.2|13|0|4 Austin|14|79|5.6|15|0|9

League Rankings 2019

Offense Rankings

Category	Eagles Stat	Eagles Rank	Cowboys Stat	Cowboys Rank
Total Offense	352.9	15th(t)	434.0	1st
Rush Offense	121.4	11th	134.0	6th
Pass Offense	231.5	16th	300.0	2nd
Points Per Game	23.9	12th	27.0	5th(t)
3rd-Down Offense	47.0%	2nd	48.6%	1st
4th-Down Offense	33.3%	28th(t)	38.5%	23rd(t)
Red Zone Offense (TD%)	66.0%	5th	59.2%	13th

Defense Rankings

Category	Eagles Stat	Eagles Rank	Cowboys Stat	Cowboys Rank
Total Defense	329.2	11th	323.6	7th
Rush Defense	90.4	3rd	103.6	12th
Pass Defense	238.8	18th	220.0	8th
Points Per Game	23.4	16th	20.6	12th
3rd-Down Defense	35.4%	9th(t)	34.3%	4th
4th-Down Defense	66.7%	30th(t)	55.6%	22nd(t)
Red Zone Defense (TD%)	61.5%	24th	52.0%	9th(t)

Team

Category	Eagles Stat	Eagles Rank	Cowboys Stat	Cowboys Rank
Turnover Diff.	-6	12th(t)	-1	16th
Penalty Per Game	6.4	8th(t)	6.9	17th(t)
Penalty Yards Per Game	53.6	8th	64.8	25th(t)

Connections
Eagles RT Halapoulivaati Vaitai is a native of Haltom, TX and went to Haltom High School. Vaitai played collegiately at TCU in Fort Worth, TX
Eagles S Jalen Mills was born in Dallas and grew up in DeSoto, TX and went to Desoto High School.
Cowboys Safeties Coach Greg Jackson played for the Eagles during the 1994-95 season.
Cowboys DT Justin Hamilton played one season for the Eagles in 2017.
Cowboys PS QB Clayton Thorston was drafted in the 5th round of the 2019 NFL draft, but was released during final cuts.
Cowboys Director of Pro Scouting Judd Garrett was selected in the 12th round of the 1990 NFL Draft by the Philadelphia Eagles but was released before the season began.
Cowboys Assistant Director of Video Stephen Gagliardino began his NFL career in 1995 as a ball boy with the Philadelphia Eagles when he was 16 years old, working training camp and game days at Veterans Stadium. He did that for four seasons before moving over to the Eagles video department in 1999, where he worked full time as an intern for three seasons (1999-2001).
Many Cowboys fans were born and raised in the Greater Philadelphia Area, however have no ties to Dallas nor have ever been to the city.
Cowboys head coach Jason Garrett was born in Abington, PA, located roughly 15 miles north of Philadelphia
Eagles DT Fletcher Cox and Cowboys QB Dak Prescott played together at Mississippi State University when Prescott was a red shirt freshman.
Eagles OT Lane Johnson is from Groveton, TX and has family who are Cowboys fans including his grandmother who was told “Shut up, if you want to see 75” while she was rooting for the Cowboys.

2020 Pro Bowlers

Eagles	Cowboys
DT Fletcher Cox (Starter)	OT Tyron Smith (starter)
OG Brandon Brooks (Starter)	RB Ezekiel Elliott
TE Zach Ertz	G Zack Martin (starter)
C Jason Kelce (Starter)	C Travis Fredrick
LS Rick Lavato (Starter)

General
Referee: Tony Corrente
Since 2000, Philadelphia has produced a 21-18 regular-season record vs. Dallas, which marks the highest winning percentage (.538) by an NFC East team against the Cowboys in that span.
Since 2016 (under Doug Pederson), the Eagles are 8-3 (.727) at home against NFC East opponents.
Including playoffs, Philadelphia has the 4th-best home winning percentage (.727, 24-9) in the NFL since 2016, trailing only New England (.857, 30-5) and Minnesota (.774, 24-7).
The Eagles have won 7 of their last 10 contests (.700) at Lincoln Financial Field.
Miles Sanders holds the Eagles rookie records in single-season scrimmage yards (1,120), previously held by DeSean Jackson (1,008 in 2008) and single-season rushing yards (687), previously held by LeSean McCoy (637 in 2009).
Carson Wentz has thrown a TD in 17 consecutive regular-season games, which is the longest active streak in the NFL.
hiladelphia owns the 2nd-best third-down percentage, converting at a 47.0% clip, trailing only Dallas (48.6%).
The Eagles are allowing 90.4 rush yards per game, ranking 3rd in the NFL, behind Tampa Bay (73.3) and NYJ (88.8).
Philadelphia is tied with Houston for the 5th-best red zone percentage in the NFL (65.96%), trailing only Tennessee (73.17%), Green Bay (68.89%), Baltimore (68.42%) and Minnesota (66.00%). The Eagles have converted either a TD or FG on 95.74% (45/47) of their red zone drives this season, which is the highest percentage in the NFL.
The Eagles defense has forced a 3-and-out on 27.4% (45/164) of opponent possessions this season, which is tied with Chicago for the highest percentage in the league.
Among NFL TEs this season, Zach Ertz ranks 2nd in receptions (84), behind Travis Kelce (86) and 3rd in receiving yards (888), behind Kelce (1,131) and Darren Waller (1,001).
Brandon Graham has a team-leading 7.5 sacks and 15 tackles for loss this season.
Since Week 13, Carson Wentz leads the NFL in both red zone passing TDs (8) and third-down passing TDs (5).

Draft Picks

Eagles	Cowboys
OT Andre Dillard	DT Trysten Hill
RB Miles Sanders	OG Connor McGovern
WR JJ Arcega-Whiteside	RB Tony Pollard
WR Shareff Miller	CB Michael Jackson
QB Clayton Thorson	DE Joe Jackson
	S Donovan Wilson
	RB Mike Weber
	DE Jalen Jelks

Notable Offseason Additions

Eagles	Cowboys
WR Desean Jackson	WR Randall Cobb
DT Malik Jackson	DE Kerry Hyder
DE Vinny Curry	TE Jason Witten
S Andrew Sendejo	DT Christian Covington
LB Zach Brown	DE Robert Quinn
DT Hassan Ridgeway
QB Josh McCown

RB Jay Ajayi

Notable Off-season Departures

Eagles	Cowboys
QB “Big Dick” Nick Foles	WR Cole Beasley
DE Michael Bennett	WR Cole Beasley
DE Chris Long	RB Rod Smith
S Chris Maragos	WR Terrance Williams
RB Jay Ajayi	DT David Irving
RB Josh Adams	TE Geoff Swaim
RB Wendell Smallwood	DE Taco Charlton
WR Jordan Matthews	OLB Damien Wilson
DT Haloti Ngata

Milestones
Eagles TE Zach Ertz (30) needs 1 TD to move up to 11th on the Eagles all-time receiving TD list all-time tying WR Jack Ferrante and Brent Celek and he needs two TDs to move up to 10th all-time tying WR Ben Hawkins.
Eagles TE Zach Ertz (5193) needs 171 yards to most up to 7th on the Eagles all-time receiving yards list passing Eagles TE/HB Bobby Watson.
Eagles WR Desean Jackson (34) needs 2 TDs to move into a tie for 7th on the Eagles all-time receiving TD list tying Jeremy Maclin.
Eagles WR Desean Jackson (6271) needs 194 yards to move up to 3rd on the Eagles all-time receiving yard list to moving ahead of Mike Quick.
Eagles S Malcolm Jenkins's (4) needs 1 more Interception for a TD to tie CB Eric Allen (5) for most Interceptions for a TD by an Eagles player.
Cowboys QB Dak Prescott (78) needs 2 TDs to move into a tie with Dallas QB Craig Morton for 6th on the Cowboys all-time passing TD list.

Pro Football Focus Matchup Charts courtesy of PFF Edge (join.profootballfocus.com/edge/)
WDB Matchups (CAPS = expected shadow coverage)

Stats to Know
Randall Cobb
Of all qualifying WRs, there is only one other receiver--including RBs and TEs--more exclusively utilized in the Slot than Dallas WR Randall Cobb (91.5% of snaps). There is also only one more purely Slot receiver with a lower target percentage than Cobb (16.0%). When looking at overall target share across Cowboys players, Cobb sits at about 14% target share, as compared to Cooper (21%), Gallup (19%), Witten (15%), Elliott (12%), and Jarwin (8%). Cobb is 2nd among Cowboys in Yards After Catch per Reception (6.0) to Zeke (8.1). He is also tied for 43rd among all qualifying WRs in PFF Receiving Grade (71.1).

Matchups to Watch
Cowboys Pass Defense vs Eagles Passing Attack
The Eagles patchwork passing offense is the key matchup for Philly in this contest. No one should expect the Eagles revolving door of suck in the secondary to hold up well against one of the most talented and efficient passing attacks in the NFL. Cooper, Cobb, and Gallup will be too much for Philadelphia to handle – and that doesn’t include Jarwin and Zeke. The most logical path for the Eagles to win this game is to keep pace and outscore Dallas in a shootout. Dallas will enter Sunday’s contest with the 22nd ranked defense by DVOA – 23rd passing, 18th against the run – which presents an opportunity for the beleaguered Eagles passing attack. Fumbles aside, Carson Wentz had a pretty good game against the Redskins and a good second half against the Giants to end the 3 game skid they were on previously. The Cowboys defense is better than their previous two opponents but not by much. This is a secondary that can be exploited, especially at safety. Additionally, the Cowboys will likely be without LVE again. Sean Lee is a capable back up now and shouldn’t be ignored, but that is a hit the Cowboys have had to deal with on the season. This receiving group is bottom of the barrel and isn’t improving any time soon. JJAW is still a limited receiver they need to lean on; maybe the Eagles should have given him reps early in the season so he could be more ready now? Greg Ward has been a decent contributor to the offense all things considered. Then what? Alshon is out. Agholor will probably be out, fortunately. Desean has been out. The receivers the Eagles have at their disposal is bleak. This is a passing attack that flows through the TEs and RBs. While they have had some success the last two games, they’ll need to be creative in their approach to avoid being predictable as it is not a sustainable path to victory. Teams have shown a willingness to do all they can to eliminate Philly’s best receiver, Ertz, and Dallas is no different. The Eagles need to leave everything out on the field from a coaching and execution standpoint to take back the East.
Cowboys Passing Offense vs. Eagles “Secondary”
Despite perception, the Eagles still have a very good pass rush despite challenges in that area this year. They just don’t have a secondary that can a) cover and b) cover enough to force QBs to hold onto the ball long enough for the pass rush to get home. What has been the theme against the Eagles secondary in their last 3 games? The answer would be a quick time to throw from the opposing QBs. The Eagles cannot play man coverage as they don’t have the personnel to do it. They struggle with single high coverage as they don’t really have good enough safeties to cover. The answer is, and always was, through against this substandard secondary quickly to defeat the rush… plays will be made. This doesn’t change on Sunday with the strong receiving group the Cowboys enter Sunday with, Dak shoulder injury be damned. Amari Cooper has done nothing but roast Philadelphia since he became a Cowboy. Cobb is a quality slot receiver and Gallup is a young receiver that is rapidly improving on a weekly basis. All 3 of these receivers get open against man and zone coverage. All 3 of these receivers are able to consistently make plays on the ball that Philly absolutely cannot. In addition to the 3 receivers, the Cowboys still have Zeke out of the backfield to go along with the plodding, but reliable Jason Witten. Blake Jarwin is growing into a good tight end that is a capable blocker and receiver. Simply put, the Cowboys have a pretty loaded offensive core for Dak to throw to. This is a matchup that leans strongly the Cowboys way. Any stops or turnovers generated by the secondary will go a long way to determining the winner of this contest. Lastly, in terms of Dak’s injury, his effectiveness will be key to Dallas’s success on Sunday. It’s just hard to project what they’ll look like at this point in time.
Cowboys Offensive Line vs Eagles Defensive Front
The Cowboys handily won in the trenches in this area in their first matchup this year. The Eagles defensive front is playing better at this point of the season than they were earlier in year which should help, but the pass rush isn’t as prolific as it once was. The first matchup had the Eagles missing Nigel Bradham and a few days removed from cutting Zach Brown; Dallas took every opportunity to pound the Eagles substandard linebacking room into the dirt. This is a strength v. strength matchup that each side will have wins, but the winner will likely help win the war. The good news is Nigel Bradham will be available Sunday. The bad news: KGH is done for the year and Derek Barnett is unlikely to play. Losing Barnett hurts the defensive line but they are deeper there than they are at LB. Nate Gerry is certainly a player, just not a good one. TJ Edwards is everyone’s favorite good player that’s actually bad. Bradham alone makes a big difference, but guys around him need to step up in a big way. The defensive line needs to control the line of scrimmage and keep Dallas out of favorable looks. This is a team that has proven they’ll turtle up in less than advantageous situations; they cannot make it easy for them. Last time, Zeke had his way on the Eagles. That can’t happen this week. There are already more favorable matchups for Dallas to exploit on the backend for the defensive line to get run over or fail to pressure Dak.

Special thanks to MikeTysonChicken and abenyishay for their help in creating this Game Preview.

 Heaton Lowton - Tarkowski - Mee - Taylor Gudmundsson - Cork - Defour - Brady Barnes - Gray 

After the ban of boxing by Theodosius I in 393 AD boxing entered a long dark age until the 1700's. This saw prominant boxers such as Jack Broughton, George Taylor and Jack Slack.
However soon after in around 1760 there is a black period of boxing history. This saw a decline in popularity of boxing, as well as some legal interferance, though I don't have as much information on this as I'd like. There is more information on this time that than dark ages but very little has be written on it. I believe much that has been written it likely incorrect, however I want to note that there is a real lack of certainty, this is a good as I can do at the moment, and I hope for this to be built on in the future.
There is for sure plenty of information missing, and some may eventually be found.
I decided since there's so little information written, that the notes I have posted should get some sort of write up, and I have not found anything new for a while, perhaps it requires someone fresh, and maybe this will get other people looking. I intend to do short series covering from about 1760 until around 1770, both for narritive reasons, and because this is where I've mostly researched. If you have any information I have missed, please inform me.
By the late 1750's, Jack Slack seems to have been inactive as a champion, and the popularity of boxing seems to have declined since the Broughtonian glory days. It is in 1760 that the earliest of Stevens's contests I have found took place.
The Public Ledger Wednesday, January 16, 1760. The old Broughtonian spirit, or manly exercise of boxing, is not yet extinct amongst us, since a bloody and desperate battle was fought yesterday in the fields, near Marybone, between one Stephens, a nailor, and one Swafford, a butcher, which lasted about fifteen minutes, and ended in favour of the former. A press-gang. Who attended, secured several useful hands, who, possibly, may be of more service to their country than being idle spectators at a boxing match.​
However it seems that it was his next battle that firmly established him as one of the top boxers. This was a battle between himself and Jacob Taplin. According to Modern Manhood by Henry Lemoine, this took place in a Roman Amphitheatre, with around 3,000 spectators. Lemoine describe Taplin as having the better of Stevens initially, with Stevens recieving a fall. However Stevens would knock down Taplin with a blow to the left of his chest, knocking him down. While both would close and fall the next round, Stevens would afterward hit him over the left eye, and then to the right temple, which knocked Taplin down, and won Stevens the contest. A report claimed Taplin died from his injuries
Derby Mercury - 15-22 February 1760 (page 2) Tuesday was fought in the Fields, near Mary-le-Bon, a most severe Battle, between Stephens, a famous Boxer, by Trade a Nailer, and one Taplin, a Carman, in whose Favour the Odds ran Three to One; the Fight was managed with great Skill and Dexterity on both Sides for about 12 Minutes, when Victory at length declared for the Nailer, to the no small Mortification of the knowing ones. Taplin had two of his Ribs broke, and received so many Bruises that it is though he can not recover. It is computed not less than 10,000 Persons were present.
Derby Mercury 15-22 February 1760 (page 2) Taplin the Carman, who fought the desperate Battle with the Naylor the other Day, in Marybone Fields, is since dead of his Bruises. ​ In may 17th that year The Newcastle Courant reported that Stevens sent a formal challenge for Jack Slack. The is widely accepted as being for the Championship of England in later writings, it should however, be noted that Slack had lost to Taylor since defeating Broughton, and it does not appear he avenged this defeat. There is also no mention of a Championship of England in the reports of this fight, however references to such a championship are rare in the reports of this period.
1760-05-17 The Newcastle Courant (page 1) LONDON, May 8. We hear that the Nailer, the noted Bruiser, flushed with the Success he has already obtained, has, at the Request of some Gentlemen, sent a formal Challenge to Mr. Slack, now settled at Bristol, to meet and fight for any Sum.​
Soon after we see a report of this fight.
1760-05-31 London Evening Post (page 3) Yesterday, at the Tennis-Court near the Haymarket, after three bye Battles (one of which those versed in the Science deemed a remarkable good one) the Heroes, Slack and Stevens the Nailor, mounted the Stage; On their first Appearance, the Odds were twenty to one on Slack's Head; but in three Minutes the Nailor proved Conqueror, to the great Disappointment and Loss of the not Knowing Ones. This Battle, it is thought, may occasion, if the Civil Power permit, two more; one between the Heroes themselvea, and the other between their Seconds.
1760-06-03 The Leedes Intelligencer (page 2) LONDON, May 29. The Heroes of the Fist are likely to come into Play again. Hero Slack is matched for a considerable Sum against Stevenson the Nailer, to fight on Monday next at the Tennis-Court in James-street, near the Hay-market. If the latter should hit the right Nail on the Head, that no Doubt will occasion a second Trial of Skill, in which Butcher must come off victorious; This will be productive of a third Combat; the Event of which none knows, except those in the Secret. ​ This rematch would take place this year, with the reports describing it like so
1760-06-06 The Derby Mercury (page 1) LONDON, June 5. on Monday the famous Battle was fought between Slack and Stephens, the Nailer, at the Tennis-Court in James-Street, Haymarket, at which were present several Noblemen and Persons of Distinction. The Combatants had only three Bouts; in the first Slack struck his Antagonist a violent Blow on the Side of his Head; at the second, Stephens hit Slack under the short Ribs, and gave him a desperate Fall; and finally pursuing his Advantage, gave him so dreadful a Blow on his Stomach, that he lay for some Time senseless on the Stage, and was obliged, after about three Minutes and a half Contest, to submit to the superior Strength of his Adversary. The Streets were crowded with Spectators to see the Combatants pass and repass.
We hear that upwards of 10,000l. has been won and lost by the last Battle between Slack and the Nailer.
It is said that Slack very kindly advised the Nailer to make his Will, and get his Coffin ready, for he had but a short Time to live. Great Men like others are sometimes mistaken. ​ In July 1760 there was another notable contest between Fosscot the Drover, and Cheltham, which was attended by Stevens "and most of the noted bruisers", with Fosscot winning in an upset, as reported in Leeds Intelligencer - Tuesday 08 July 1760.
The Bath Chronicle and Weekly Gazette - Thursday 08 January 1761 also reports a battle described as "thought to be the most obstinate Battle ever fought", in which Hunt of Pensford defeated Collins of Weston, after nearly one and a half hours. This battle was for 10 Guineas
Stevens would then fight George Meggs. Derby Mercury - Friday 13 February 1761 We hear that a Trial of Skill will be decided in a few Days, between William Stephens the Nailor, and George Maggs, large Sums having been laid on this Occasion.​
The Bath Chronicle and Weekly Gazette - Thursday 26 February 1761 claims that this battle was delayed to the next Monday, having oringally been scheduled for the previous Monday, at the request of several noblemen. However the outcome of the match was reported the next day!
Derby Mercury - Friday 27 February 1761 This Day at Noon, the Match between Maggs and the Nailor was fought at the Tennis Court in James Street, near the Hay Market. The Odds at first were greatly for the Nailor, but it was decided in favour of the former, who obtained the Victory over his Antagonist ​ Somewhat later reports give a more detailed account.
Bath Chronicle and Weekly Gazette - Thursday 05 March 1761 Monday last the Trial of Skill between George Maggs, of Pensford in this County, and Stephens the Nailer, was decided at the Tennis-Court in St. James-Street, near the Hay-Market, London. There were assembled the greatest Concourse of Nobility, Gentry, &c/ ever known on the like Occation. The Champions mounted the Stage between Twelve and One. At first setting to, Maggs struck the Nailer down; afterwards the Nailer knocked him down twice; and for ten Minutes he seemed to have the Advantage: However, the heroic Maggs, by his great Skill, uncommon Strength, unequal'd Courage, and matchless Agility, soon changed the Scene; struck the Nailer down six Times successively; and finally stript him of all Laurels he had acquired by his many former Victories.--- Smallwood was Second to Maggs, and Faulkner to Stephens.--- According to the most exact Accounts, the Battle lasted just seventeen Minutes and a half. A certain Royal Personage was present, and won large Sums. 'Tis said upward of 50,000l. depended on the Issue of this Battle: One Nobleman lost above 2000l. We hear that Maggs and the Nailer were weighed a few Days before they fought; and that there were only five Pounds Difference, which was in Maggs favour.
Oxford Journal - Saturday 07 March 1761 Monday the tryal of Skill between the Nailor (who so easily beat Slack some Time since) and Maggs from Bristol, was determined at the Tennis-Court in James-street, by the Hay-market, before several People of Distinction, and a great Number of Spectators ; when Maggs in about eight-teen Minutes and a half, tore the Laurels from the Brow of the most powerful Nailor, and gained to himself, the Honour of being the Champion amoungst the Broughtonians. 'Tis said several Knowing Ones were out of the Secret​
In Modern Manhood Henry Lemoine states that Jack Slack, who had been training Meggs bribed Stevens to throw the fight, with Stevens admitting to having done such. This may be true, however the newsreports I have seen never claim anything like this, and hold Stevens and Meggs both in pretty good regard.
I think "the Champion amoungst the Broughtonians" can be understood as being Champion of England, which solidifies the Champion status of William Stevens and George Meggs.
Bath Chronicle and Weekly Gazette - Thursday 12 March 1761 There are three Brothers of the Name of Maggs, all noted Boxers, who have Challenged any three Men in England to fights what is called a Welch Main, for any Sum.--- The Bristol People, it is supposed, have carried away above 10,000l. won at the late Battle in the Hay Market ; and are so elate with their Success, that they offer to back their Champion for 1000 Guineas, against anyone Man in the World. Gazetter. ​ George Meggs is normally dismissed if given any attention at all. Seem as an unskilled bum who was given the title in a fixed fight. Boxiana sums him up as "Of no particular note as a Pugilist".
Whether or not his win over the Nailor was indeed a fix, he appears to have been better than he is dismissed as.
Sadly there is scant information on what happened next with George Meggs, as far as I am aware this information comes from Pancratia in 1812.
From Pancratia In July, 1766, (apparently should be 1762) George Meggs fought a pitch battle for a considerable sum with one Millsom, a baker, of Bath, at Calne, in Wiltshire; the contest laster 40 minutes, when Millsom was acknowledged the conqueror. In the August following, Meggs having challenged Millsom to another combat, was again severely beat. The same Millsom also vanquished Parsit Meggs, George's brother, a celebrated West-country bruiser.​
The only corrobarating evidence for these contests I have so far found is this:
Oxford Journal - Saturday 01 January 1763 On Monday next a Battle is to be fought at the Tennis-Court at Barton Hundred, near Bristol, by Maggs and Milsom. Many Bets are depending, the Courage and Strength of the Champions being well known to the Gentlemen of the Fist, &c.​
While I would rather have more to go on, I am inclined to believe these contests took place, and so it appears that the championship soon passed for Meggs to George Millsom.
1762 also saw William Stevens, The Nailor, return to the ring
Derby Mercury - Friday 01 January 1762 Yesterday a Bruising Match was fought near Strutton-Grounds, Westminisrerm between Stevens, a Nailer, and his Brother, against one Carrits and his Brother, when the Nailer beat his Antagonist, but the Brother of the Nailer was beaten. It was a very hard Battle on both Sides; and Smallwood and the Nailer's Second having differ'd, the two Seconds fought, and Smallwood was beat in two Minutes ​ As stated in the prologue, this time seems to have seen legal interferance with boxing, which may be part of why information is so hard to come by.
Bath Chronicle and Weekly Gazette - Thursday 10 June 1762 The Battle which was to have been fought Yesterday between the noted Stephens The Nail, and Turner the Coach-Spring Maker, at the Repository on Saffron-Hill, for 100l. each was put a Stop by the Activity of Mr Justice Welch, being contrary to a late Act which suppressed these Meetings, as only Nurserier for Thieves, &c. The Odds were greatly in Favour of the Coach Spring Maker against the Nailer​
I will include this report of another contest from around this time Oxford Journal - Saturday 10 March 1764 Yesterday Afternoon a very severe Battle was fought in the Spaw Field, near Sadler’s Wells, between two redoubted Covent Garden Heroes, one of whom is well known by the Name of Tom Thumb. The Odds ran greatly in Favour of this Champion, but after Boxing some Time, he received such a desperate Fall from his Antagonist, that it fractured his Skull, whereby the Knowing Ones were plaguily taken in.​
Tom Juchua, known by various forms as Disher was then reported as taking part in a a very notable match.
Oxford Journal - Saturday 16 June 1764 Yesterday there was a great Boxing Match at Guildford, for a considerable Sum of Money, between Kannan a Butcher in Clare Market, and one Ditcher, a noted Pavior ; when after a Battle of fifty-eight Minutes, the Pavior beat his Antagonist. Their Seconds were Slack and Faulkner
Leeds Intelligencer - Tuesday 19 June 1764 Wednesday there was a great boxing match at Guildford, for a considerable sum of money, between Koant, a butcher in Clare-market, and on Dicher, a noted Paviour ; when after a battle of 58 minutes, the Pavious beat his antagonist. Their seconds were Slack and Faulkner.
Bath Chronicle and Weekly Gazette - Thursday 21 June 1764 Wednesday there was a great Boxing Match at Guildford, for a considerable Sum of Sum of Monet, between Kannam, a Butcher in Claremarket, and one Dicher, a noted Paviour: The Butcher knocked the Paviour down six or seven Times succeslively, and the Odds were in his Favour l but the Paviour recovering his Wind, in his Turn threw the Butcher several dreadful Falls; which obliged him to give out, after having fought exactly 46 Minutes and a Half. Their Seconds were Slack and Faulkner. It is said there were above 4000l. depending on this Boxing Match ; several Persons of Distinction also were present ; and before the Battle began, the Bets were Three to One, and Two to One on the Butcher ; so that the Knowing ones were largely taken in. ​ 1764 also saw John Riddell fight, who the Derby Mercury of Thursday 26 May 1785 claimed was undefeated, and an advert for Jack Slack returning to the ring, though I have yet to see a report of the result.
Oxford Journal - Saturday 17 November 1764 On Monday last a Battle for Twenty Guineas was fought at Castle Bromwich, between Reddel and Dallaway, two famous Champions both of Birmingham; when Reddel proved Victorious, after an obstinate Contest of near Twenty Minutes ; in which he acquired vast Reputation as a Bruiser, as well for his coll Intrepidity, as the forcible Judgment with which he placed his Blows. There were a prodigious Concourse of People, and Bets depending on the Amount of several Hundred Pounds
Monday 10 December 1764 - Dublin Courier We hear that there will be shortly a Trial of Skill in the most noble and antient Art of Boxing, between the celebrated Mr. Slack (who some Years ago defeated the redoubted Hero, Mr. Broughton) and one Wyburne of this City.- Several considerable Betts are depending upon this Occasion, and the Gentlemen Gladiators expect excellent Diversion​ Henry Lemoine also gives an account of this contest.
From Modern Manhood MUCH about this time, or a little after-wards, a famous battle was fought at Guildford, between Thomas Juchau, a Pavior, otherwise known by the name of Disher, and one Coant, a Butcher from Clare-market. Before the fight, the odds were 4 to 1 upon Coant, and for the first 25 minutes the Pavior could scarce get a blow at his antagonist, and was knocked down five or six times. At 35 minutes, the odds were so great, that money was offered at any rate; but just then Disher changing his mode of fighting, gave him such a blow as turned the odds greatly in his favour. After three or four rounds more, the Butcher coming full up to the Pavior, and missing his stroke, fell flat on his face, and not being able to continue the contest, gave it in, and the Pavior was pronounced victorious. The engagement lasted 47 minutes. ​ Pancratia then states that in 1765 Millsom lost to Juchau, passing the title onto him.
From Pancratia August 27, 1765, Millsom, who had so successfully beat the two Meggs, fought a battle with Thomas Juchau, at Colney, near St. Alban's, in which he failed enjoying his usual triumph, Juchau proving the conqueror.​
The title is then soon passed onto William Darts
From Pancratia May, 1766, Tom Juchau fought a famous boxing match with William Darts, a dyer, at Guildford, for 1000 guineas, which after a most severe battle of 40 minutes, was won by Darts.​
I am working with the assumption that these accounts are true, because there is really nothing else to go on, however these two battles are highly questionable. Henry Lemoine mentions Juchau taking part in no other contests, and states that "some time after this" he agreed never to box again as part of his marrige. I have also found no other reports of Juchau boxing.
Going back to 1765, we also find an account of Darts boxing
Oxford Journal - Saturday 19 January 1765 Yesterday died of his Bruises, Gregory, the famous Whitechapel Drover, who on Monday last fought the noted Dart, a Dyer in Southwark, on Putney-Common, and Warrants are issued out for apprehending him. ​ I also found this account, which is mostly important because of a later account of a Paviour boxing, which may otherwise appear to be Juchua
Derby Mercury - Friday 13 September 1765 Tuesday Morning early a Battle was fought in St. George's fields, between James Ellis, a Carman, and William Round, a Paviour, called Stick-in-the-Mud, for five Guineas a Side, besides, many Bets depending ; when, after a Contest of near twenty-two Minutes, Round beat his Antagonist ; but they were both so much bruised, that they were obliged to be carried home by their Companions ; and neither of them were able to speak when put to Bed​
Of the fighters of the black period, Darts is one of the better known, and honestly one I have spent less time looking into.
In 1767 we find George Meggs taking part in another contest, but I have not been able to find the result
Oxford Journal - Saturday 31 January 1767 A letter from Bristol say that George Meggs, the famous Hero of Pensford, in Somersetshire, who beat William Stevens, the Noted Nailer, at the Tennis Court, on which there were so many Thousand Pounds depending, is now matched to fight with Richard Hunt, a Kingswood Collier, whom he hath once beat before ; but as it was a very long Battle between them at that Time, and not altogether fairly decided at last, Hunt is the present Challenger. They are to fight on a raised Stage on Clarken Down, near Bath, for One Hundred Guineu a Side of their own Money. There will be a great deal won and lost at this Battle, if the Champions are suffered to decide it​
Later that year Darts fought William Stevens, The Nailor
Bath Chronicle and Weekly Gazette - Thursday 06 August 1767 A boxing match for several considerable sums of money, is to be fought one day this week, between Stevens the nailer and Dart the dyer, at Colnbrook, if not prevented by the magistrates.​
Once again we can see there was an issue of police interferance in this era.
Oxford Journal - Saturday 22 August 1767 Yesterday a Battle was fought between Stephens the Nailor and Dart the Dyer, in a Booth which was erected for that purpose in four Hours, at a Plac called Pyle, near Colnbrook, for a considerable Sum of Money : Notwithstanding the Nailor was knocked down the first Blow, the Dyer gaver out in a few Minutes, and so the Hum ended.
Leeds Intelligencer - Tuesday 25 August 1767 Yesterday a severe battle was fought at Colnbrook, between the noted Dyer and the Naylor, on which upwards of 1000l. were depending. The odds, at first, were six to one in favour of the Dyer; but, after a contest of fifteen minutes, the Naylor came off conqueror, by which the knowing-ones were greatly taken in.​
As can be seen, the Dyer's reign was ended by Stevens shortly after it began, and not, as is generally reported by Tom Lyons in 1769.
Around this time there was an especially brutal match reported between James Bromley and Samuel Freeman
Derby Mercury - Friday 21 August 1767 On Monday the 10th Instant, was fought at Ashby-de-la-Zouch, a great Boxing Match, between James Bromley, a Blacksmith, of Crich, in this County, and Samuel Freeman, of Birmingham, for One Hundred Guineas. An incredible Number of People from all Parts assembled on this Occasion: The Combatants fought an Hour and a Half, and though they were both almost spent, and hardly able to stand, much Blood being spilt, and each Man most terribly bruised, yet neither would submit: At length, a Surgeon who attended, declared, if they were not immediately parted, Death must be the Consequence: Proclamation was then made, that all Wagers were void, and that it was a drawn Battle, the Seconds having interfered and parted the two Antagonists against their Will. —The Derbyshire Dons went off in Triumph, boasting their Hero walked from the Place of Action; when Freeman was obliged to be carried to bed, in a Chair ​ Another hard fought contest was reported between Primroe and Lyton.
Newcastle Chronicle - Saturday 23 May 1767 Yesterday morning the fighting butcher, known by the name Primroe, fought with one Layton, a paviour, in a field near the Foundling hospital, for a wager of 20l. besides considerable betts :
The batte lasted near 32 minutes, and Primrose came off conqueror ; though both parties were so much bruised that they were carried away in a coach.
It always seemed odd to me that Boxiana would ignore Stevens's later fights over a single alledged fix, and even stranger with him apparently regaining the title.
A second reference to George Millsom is found around this time, him getting married!
Bath Chronicle and Weekly Gazette - Thursday 29 October 1767 Sunday was married at St. Michael’s church, Mr. George Milsom, Apothecary, of this city, to Miss Fanny Hales, youngest Daughter of the late Alderman Hales.​
And we also see his old opponent George Meggs back in action
Bath Chronicle and Weekly Gazette - Thursday 06 October 1768 Monday last the bruising match, which has been long in agitation between the notes Maggs of Pensford, and one Ellis, of Glastonbury, was decided with the space of five minutes in favour of Maggs.- Many considerable betts were depending on the issue of this battle.​
His brother also fought the Dyer, all be it, unsuccessfully.
Bath Chronicle and Weekly Gazette - Thursday 04 May 1769 On Tuesday last, the famous bruising match between the noted Darch, the dyer, and Parfit Maggs, (brother to George Maggs, who a few years since beat the Nailer, at the Tennis-Court in the Haymarket, London,) was fought at Cannard's-Grave, near Shepton-Mallet in this county. The battle lasted 11 minutes, when victory declared for Darch.-Very considerable betts were depending, but the odds were in favour of the victor.​
A little after we find Stevens fighting George Millsom
Bath Chronicle and Weekly Gazette - Thursday 15 June 1769 On Monday next a bruising-match between the noted Stevens, the nailor, and one George Milsom, a collier, for 50l. each side, will be fought at the Riding-School in Bristol.— Very considerable betts are depending on the issue of this battle​
George Millsom won this contest, which also makes me think Meggs beating the Nailor fairly is plausable.
Oxford Journal - Saturday 24 June 1769 On Monday last a long depending Battle was fought at the Circular Stables in this City, between the noted William Stevens, the Nailor, and George Milsom, a Collier, of Kingswood, for Fifty Pounds a Side, where the Knowing Ones were taken in. It is supposed there were ten thousand Persons present; amoung whom were two Noblemen, and several of the principal Gentlemen of the neighbouring Countis, as well as from Wales. The Champions mounted the Stafe a little before Eight in the Evening, and fought between six and seven Minutes, when Victory was declared in Favour of Milsom ​ However, it appears Millsom did not when the Championship in this fight, as another report says that, somehow, George Meggs is champion. There are many possibilities. One is that simply Pancratia was wrong, it is possible Meggs didn't lose the Championship, he may have regained it in as of yet lost contests, or the report may be an error, or could mean something else.
Bath Chronicle and Weekly Gazette - Thursday 22 June 1769 On Monday the great bruising-match between Stevens, the Nailer, and George Milsom, a collier of Kingswood, was fought at the Riding-school in Bristol. the battle lasted about seven minutes, when victory declared for the latter. - It is thought there were present near 400 persons, and the box collection was very considerable, as great numbers paid 2s. 6d. for their admission. The betts were in favour of the Nailor till a few hours before the combat, when six to four were laid on Milsom's side, who was the favourite of the knowing-ones.- The noted Darch, who lately beat Parsitt Maggs, was second to Milsom ; and George Maggs, the present hero of England, was second to the Nailer. - Immediately after the battle, Darch challenged George Maggs to fight him for 100 guineas and the door collection ; but it is said that Maggs made no reply​
Pancratia also states that Darts fought around this time.
From Pancratia On June 27, 1769, Bill Darts, who had long carried on a successful pugilistic career, fought and lost a long- depending battle with Lyons, a waterman, at Kingston, on Thames. Darts for the first half of the battle had a most astonishing advantage, the odds were ten to one in his favour ; Lyons, however, recovered himself, and in 45 minutes severely beat him. ​ This fight is often said to have cost Darts the Championship, which he then reclaimed, but this appears to be incorrect. William Darts also had another contest arranged for this year
Derby Mercury - Friday 01 September 1769 We now hear that the famous Boxing Match, between the noted Darts and Mr. Turner, will certainly be fought on the Race Ground, the Day after the Races.​
However he pulled out, claiming a hand injury.
Derby Mercury - Friday 08 September 1769 This Day about Twelve o'Clock, the two Champions at Boxing, made their Appearance on the Stage, erected for the Occasion on Sinsin-Moor, when Darts, (the Dyer) pair forfeit to Mr. Wm. Turner, alledging a Lameness in one of his Hands; and this ended the Affair, which has caused so much Talk amoungst the Knowing-Ons, without any Trial of Manhood.
Bath Chronicle and Weekly Gazette - Thursday 14 September 1769 We hear from Derby, that when the two boxing champions, Darts and Turner met, the former declined fighting, alledging a lameness in one of his hands.
As previously stated it is unclear how George Meggs was Champion in 1769, as the reports of fights I have seen would suggest it would belong to George Millsom. Thankfully this was soon cleared up.
In the meantime William Darts would fight the acclaimed Death, though Boxiana and Pugilistica both state that by this point Death was past his best.
From Pancratia On March 25, 1770, a battle was fought between Bill Darts and Stephen Oliver ; although the latter displayed great skill and excellent bottom, he was obliged to yield to the superior strength of Darts, who at this time was considered the hardest hitter through the whole range of pugilists. Though the real name of the unsuccessful candidate for pugilistic fame in the battle just related, is Oliver, he is more generally known by the nick-name of Death, said to have been given him through the paleness of his visage, during his pugilistic contests ; he formerly had won several battles, and was one of Brousrhton's greatest favorites. He was well made, very light, never exceeding 12 stone ; not possessing much strength, he was fully compensated by his astonishing agility; Oliver has fought more battles than any man in England, and though frequently over matched, often conquered, but his sparring, notwithstanding it was thought excellent some years back, is now equalled by any pupil of Mendoza's or Humphries's; this indisputably shews the moderns have improved in science.​
This is sometimes listed as a Championship fight, with Darts becoming the Champion once again. In light of the previous finds, however, I do not think this is true.
Later this same year George Meggs and George Millsom would, seemingly once again, do battle.
Middlesex Journal May 8th 1770 Maggs and Milsom have agreed to fight for one hundred pounds at Frome, on Monday next the 14th instant​
Bath Chronicle and Weekly Gazette - Thursday 24 May 1770 On Monday last the much talked-of buising-match between George Maggs, of Pensford, and George Milsom, of Kingswood, was decided on Leigh down near Bristol, within four minutes, in favour of the latter.- Very large sums were depending on the issue of this battle, and many of Magg's friends were so sanguine in his behalf, that bets of two to one against Milsom were laid to a considerable amount. ​ I have speculated before if these later bouts were confused and turned into the bouts in 1762, however I believe the 1763 advertisement suggests against this. There really is a lot of ambiguity with so little information, much of which isn't very reliable.
Another bout from this time featured Tom Juchau's brother, this one too was rather brutal.
Reading Mercury - Monday 11 June 1770 Thursday noon a brusing match was fought in Moor-fields, between a Butcher, and one Disher, brother to the noted fighter Disher, which lasted 75 minutes, when Disher was carried off with no appearance of life, and the Butcher was so much brused that it is though he cannot recover.​
I am yet to find another fight of George Millsom, perhaps his fight with Meggs was his last. It is therefore unclear what happened next.
The tradional lineage is that in 1771, Peter Corcoran defeated Darts to become Champion of England
From Pancratia May 16, 1771, during Epsom races, a battle was fought between Bill Darts, and Peter Corcoran, for £100 a side. Captain O'Kelly made the match, and backing his countryman to a large amount, but previous to the battle, gave Dart £100 to play CROSS; accordingly when they met, after a little sparring, Corcoran gave Darts a blow on the side of the head, which drove him against the rail of the stage, when he immediately gave in. It was so evident that Darts had FOUGHT BOOTY, that none of the sporting men would afterwards back him: thus by one dirty action Darts lost all the fame he had been for so many years acquiring.​
This match too was claimed to be a fix, apart from by Boxiana.
Oddly I found a report that appears to have been that match, perhaps this was a rematch, however it is odd that he'd be expected to win after throwing the first won, or otherwise losing it Oxford Journal - Saturday 30 May 1772 Yesterday afternoon a great bruising match was fought on Epsom Downs, between the famous Darts the Dyer, and one Cotrell. The odds, before the engagement began, were ten to one on the former, but after two minutes conflict, Darts was beat,, to the great disappointment of the Knowing Ones, several of whom were pretty deeply taken in. ​ It also appears that this news report is calling this match a fix, so presumably there was an error with the date at some point
Stamford Mercury - Thursday 18 June 1772 It is said that a certain sporting Captain, who so warmly espoused the late boxing match at Epsom, between the Hibernian Publican and Darts the Dyer, cleared no less than 1500l. by the battle, the conquerred party 500l. by bye bets. ​ Two years after his fight with Millsom, it appear George Meggs would fight again, however once again unsuccessfully.
Public Advertiser - July 22, 1772 We hear from Cirencester, that the famous Maggs was beat by his Antagonist Stanley, after a Contest of Half an Hour ​ Corcoran was then reported to have lost a match in the 1775-04-22 The Middlesex Journal And Evening Advertiser (page 2), to William Allen, however in a report of his fight with Sellers he is described as having never been beaten before, and that Sellers became
​ Stevens would also fight Sellers
Oxford Journal - Saturday 05 September 1778 Yesterday a great Boxing-Match was fought on a Stage erected for that Purpose on Hounslow-Heath, between the celebrated Stevens, a Nailor, and Sellers, the Sawyer; when after two or three Rounds, Victory decleared in Favour of the latter. The Odds, two to one on the Victor. After this a very desperate Battle was fought for thirty Minutes between two Pupils of the First, which proved as severe a Contest as has been known for some Time. Not a Shock-Head within twenty Miles of London but was present on the above Occasion.​
The list of bankrupts in Norfolk Chronicle - Saturday 26 April 1783 includes "Thomas Juchau, of St. Leonard, Shoreditch, paviour." Also from the list of bankrupts in Hereford Journal - Wednesday 09 December 1795 "Thomas Juchau and Thomas Arceer Juchau of Bateman's-row, Shoreditch, Middlesex, paviours" And there are several other similar ones including
Kentish Gazette - Wednesday 23 April 1783 Thomas Juchau, of the parish of St. Leonard Shoreditch in the county of Middlesex, Pavier, Dealer and Chapman ; to surrender on the 29th of April instant, and 6th and 31st of May next, at eleven each day, at Guildhall, London.​
George Meggs is reported on Cyberboxingzone to have had 3 later contests, two in 1787 and one in 1790. And in the 1800's he was reported to still be alive and well off
Monthly Mirror May 1, 1803 Bath, April 29.—On Monday died in this city, George Ring, formerly a baker, and celebrated as one of the first pugilists in the kingdom. He was rather under the middle size, but the quickness of his eye, and the muscular power of his arm, and his general activity, brought him always off victorious, though opposed to men of far superior size and strength. To, his method of fighting, Ward, Mendoza, Humphries, and other noted heroes of the fist, it is said, owed their celebrity; for he introduced what is termed the present scientific mode of combat. But the glory of George Ring was of short duration: hard blows, frequently experienced, and a life of continued dissipation, brought premature old age, poverty, and neglect; at a period when he ought to have been in the bloom of health and vigour, every “puny whipster” could “knock him about the scone, and he durst not tell him of his action of battery.” As a contrast to the above character, we cannot avoid noticing that the celebrated George Maggs, whose fame rang through this country nearly fifty years ago as the champion of England, when he beat the noted Stephens, the nailor, in London, is now living in this city, a hale, hearty, respectable old man; a handsome and venerable pile of stately ruins. ​ Thank you for reading, I thought this period deserved a write up, I'm not the best at prose, but I hope this was reasonably easy to follow as a single narritive, once again, if you have any more information, especially if it changes what I have found in terms of lineage, please post it.
Thanks to Senya for several of the newspaper articles in this short series. This was all written in a single day, so also please inform me of any writing errors and I will correct them

The one-hit wonder is fascinating. How an artist seemingly comes out of nowhere, makes it big, and then never does anything relevant again is odd to think about. One month, they’re a nobody. The next month, they’re one of the most famous people in the country. And a few months after that, they’re back to either being a nobody again, or creating albums that don’t generate any hits but are so critically acclaimed that they literally lead to the creation of one of the most popular music subreddits on Reddit (and that’s not an exaggeration).
The same thing is true in the NFL. How does a player have one good season and then do nothing else? Was it purely a fluke? Was it a result of unlucky circumstances, such as an injury or a scheme change? Was it something that happened off the field? That’s what this series is all about. I did a bit of it last year, but I really want to focus on it again this offseason, because the offseason is painfully boring. So, the One-Hit Wonders series is back, focusing on players that only had one season of relevance, then faded into oblivion.
And after winning Super Bowl XXXIII in the 1998 season, the Denver Broncos were at a crossroads. John Elway retired, going out on one of the greatest notes in the history of the NFL. To go out of the league with a Pro Bowl appearance, a Super Bowl title, a Super Bowl MVP, and the best record in the AFC is a pretty good way to retire. But after Elway’s retirement, Terrell Davis’ injury, and an 0-4 start to the 1999 season, all hope looked lost for the Broncos. It looked like the offense would be unable to get anything going… until one man appeared out of nowhere and flipped the script, emerging as one of the best halfbacks in the NFL.
In 1999, he was third in rushing yards per game, had 1,159 total yards, and 7 touchdowns. For the rest of his career, he would have just 23 yards per game, 839 rushing yards, and 4 touchdowns. This is the rise and fall of Olandis Gary.
Part I: From Marshall to Georgia
Gary entered the NFL as a 24-year old rookie, and spent more than 4 years in the NCAA system, seeing as he graduated high school in 1993. He went to Upper Marlboro Riverdale Baptist in the DC area and was listed as a returning halfback in the 1992 preview (meaning that he had to have played in 1991), and the 1993 high school football preview. In the 1994 high school football preview, it said that he was one of 16 players who graduated, and that the running game would now be in the hands of junior halfback Tee Butler (who eventually became a LB at Virginia Tech). He was a star in high school, setting the Maryland private school rushing record with 5,375 yards over his career. So it made sense that he would continue his football career in college, and he did this at Marshall.
Things weren’t turning out well, though. He didn’t start for the Thundering Herd, and backed up future Jaguars halfback Chris Parker (he played a grand total of one game with the Jaguars in 1997, and didn’t play any other game with any other team). Then, he wanted to go play for Georgia in the SEC, even though coach Bob Pruet supposedly told Gary that he’d be making a mistake, and that there were “a million and one reasons why [he] couldn’t play in the SEC.” So after doing nothing of significance at Marshall in 1994 and 1995, and sitting out the 1996 season due to transfer rules, he was finally able to play in 1997 with the Bulldogs.
In 1997, Gary appeared on Georgia’s roster as the backup to Robert Edwards. That 1997 squad for Georgia was full of one-hit wonders in the NFL for halfbacks, including both Gary and Edwards, alongside Patrick Pass. For those curious, Edwards was drafted in the first round of the 1998 NFL Draft by the Patriots, and had 1,115 yards and 9 touchdowns in his rookie season. He was actually fifth in the NFL in rushing touchdowns in his rookie year. Things took a tragic turn, though, when during a flag football game at the Pro Bowl, he completely blew out his knee. The fact that his leg didn’t get amputated is surprising. The fact that he was able to walk again is even more surprising. The fact that he was able to play football again in 2002 absolutely blows my mind. One of the more tragic one hit wonders, to say the least. As for Patrick Pass, he’s a minor one-hit wonder; he had 3 touchdowns for the Patriots as a fullback in 2005 and had 0 touchdowns in any other year of his career. He had more Super Bowl wins (4) than touchdowns (3), as he won 3 titles with the Patriots and then won Super Bowl XLII as a member of the New York Giants.
Getting back to Gary, though, he had 7 touchdowns in his first season with the Bulldogs, averaging 5.8 yards per carry as the change-of-pace halfback. By the end of the season, Edwards was carrying the bulk of the duties running the ball, so everyone’s playing time diminished. This box score from a late November game against Auburn shows that. Edwards had 18 carries in that game. Hines Ward (yes, the receiver) had 5, and quarterback Mike Bobo had 5. Nobody else had more than 1, and Gary didn’t have a single rushing attempt. At that point, unless it was Bobo taking off and running/getting sacked, or a reverse to Ward, Robert Edwards was getting the carries. Gary’s season was overshadowed by what Edwards was doing, which makes sense, seeing as Edwards was good enough to go in the first round of the ensuing draft. To highlight this overshadowing, even though Gary scored in the 1998 Outback Bowl, Robert Edwards stole the show with 3 touchdowns. Gary was a victim of a really talented backfield.
But in 1998, Gary would get his moment as the feature halfback. Nobody else came remotely close to Gary in terms of rushing contributions; the next closest halfback on the team (Ronnie Bradley) had 47 carries for 145 yards and 2 touchdowns. Gary had 4.9 yards per carry and 10 touchdowns, picking up 698 yards on 143 carries. It didn’t come easy; it wasn’t until the second half of the season that his reps and production began to increase. Once he got his opportunities, though, he made the most of them, with back-to-back games of over 100 yards against Auburn (130) and Ole Miss (132). Here’s an article on his college career winding down in 1998, with a somewhat amazing bit of foreshadowing in the final paragraph where author Ray Glier states, “it’s far too early to say that Gary might be like Terrell Davis.”
In the 1998 Peach Bowl, the Bulldogs of Georgia defeated the Cavaliers of Virginia 35-33. In Gary’s final collegiate game, he saved some of his best for last, scoring 2 touchdowns and winning the offensive MVP of the game. After getting overshadowed for most of his career, he rose from the ashes in 1998. All of the sudden, his chances of making it in the NFL were rising and were legitimate. And those chances would be fulfilled in the 1999 NFL Draft.
Part II: Getting Drafted
After the 1998 season, Terrell Davis was the best halfback in all of football. If you want to know how you get into the Hall of Fame despite only really playing four years, look no further than Davis’ production in his first four seasons with the Broncos. And the 1998 season is up there with one of the greatest seasons for any halfback of all-time. He led the NFL in yards per carry with 5.1. He scored 23 touchdowns, which is tied for 8th in NFL history, and at the time, was third in NFL history, only behind Emmitt Smith’s 25 touchdowns in 1995 and John Riggins’ 24 touchdowns in 1983. He had 21 rushing touchdowns, which is tied for 6th in NFL history, and at the time, was tied for third in NFL history. And, he had 2,008 rushing yards, which is 5th in NFL history, and at the time, was third in NFL history, only behind Eric Dickerson’s total of 2,105 yards in 1984 and Barry Sanders’ total of 2,053 yards in 1997. Oh… and he won his second straight Super Bowl, made it to the Pro Bowl, was named a First Team All-Pro, won Offensive Player of the Year, and won the MVP award. Not too shabby.
So it was clear that entering the 1999 season for the Broncos, that Terrell Davis was going to be the lead back. But who did the Broncos have behind him? Well… not much. They didn’t have a whole lot. Even after one of the greatest seasons in the history of the NFL by a halfback, the position was still a pretty big need. The backup in 1998 was Derek Loville, who I did a post about a year ago as my first installment of this series. Loville’s one season in the spotlight came in 1995, when he scored 13 touchdowns for the San Francisco 49ers and finished eighth in the league in rushing touchdowns with 10. But in 1998, he did absolutely nothing, averaging just 3 yards per carry and picking up only 161 yards. He was the #2 halfback. Excluding quarterbacks, the guy with the most rushing attempts after that was Vaughn Hebron with 9. He was primarily a kick returner (though he was a halfback in the mid-90s with the Eagles and didn’t do a whole lot), and wouldn’t even appear on the 1999 roster. Especially since the Broncos didn’t add any halfback in free agency, they desperately needed some help for depth purposes. They needed to draft a halfback in 1999.
The 1999 NFL Draft was definitely a mixed bag for halfbacks. At the top in the first round, Edgerrin James and Ricky Williams were both really good. James has a good chance to get into Canton some day, and Ricky Williams, while definitely not worth an entire draft class worth of picks, had a pretty good NFL career (anytime a halfback finishes his career with over 10,000 rushing yards, it’s hard to call that a failure). Kevin Faulk, drafted in the second round by the Patriots, finished his career in the Patriots Hall of Fame, and played 161 games for the Pats from 1999-2011.
Then, you had a bunch of halfbacks that didn’t work out. Miami choosing JJ Johnson is a forgotten bust; drafting a 25-year old rookie in the second round that only puts up 5 rushing touchdowns on 3.4 yards per carry and starts a grand total of 5 games is not good. Joe Montgomery is another forgotten bust; he got drafted by the Giants in the second round, and finished his career with the Giants with just 4 touchdowns, running the ball just once for the team after 1999. Kansas City second round pick Mike Cloud only had 4 touchdowns in his four seasons with the team, and had a terrible 3.1 yards per carry on 6.8 yards per game. Jermaine Fazande was drafted by the Chargers in the second round, and played just two seasons in the NFL. And in the third round, the talent did not improve; Shawn Bryson got drafted by the Bills and scored just 2 touchdowns, while Amos Zereoue backed up Jerome Bettis for a few years, then took the starting job and proceeded to do nothing with it.
This was not one of those drafts where every halfback was a good pick, and where you could find talent all across the board. Outside of the consensus top two, you really had to dig to find good halfback talent. But it seemed like the Broncos did just that when they took Gary in the fourth round with pick #127. He was the first halfback taken after Sean Bennett got taken by the Giants (who finished his career with 126 yards), the final halfback taken in the fourth round, and the 12th halfback taken in the draft. There was a chip on his shoulder. He had something to prove at Georgia. Now, it was time to prove something in the NFL.
Part III: A Really, Really Bad Start
That chip on your shoulder thing was something that Gary may have taken a bit too literally at first. In 1998, the Broncos had a free safety out of Tennessee named Tori Noel who was on the practice squad. But in 1999, he was supposed to make an impact. The New York Times called him part of the future in a throwaway line in one March 1999 article, and got a Super Bowl ring for being on the roster during Super Bowl XXXIII; Noel later sold his ring and eventually had it land on Pawn Stars, which only further drives home the point that after 21 years, you never know what is gonna come through that door.
Noel was supposed to have a spot on the team in 1999 and make at least somewhat of a contribution. That all ended during a practice incident at the goal line involving Olandis Gary.
During a Wednesday practice, Gary ran over Noel, making a second effort to get into the end zone. Gary said that “he pulled up on the play thinking it was over and left himself defenseless.” With something to prove, Gary made that second effort, but unintentionally ended Noel’s career in the process. Noel was diagnosed with a herniated disk and had to have surgery after getting taken away in an ambulance. It was a pretty hectic preseason for Gary, from that injury to playing a preseason game in Australia, which was the first and only NFL game ever played in Australia.
But when the 1999 season started, the Broncos stumbled. It was already going to be a longshot trying to defend their title after the retirement of John Elway. Those odds only got worse when they started the season 0-4.
Let’s be clear- teams have gotten off to bad starts before after winning the Super Bowl the year before. After winning Super Bowl XV in the 1980 season, becoming the first team in NFL history to ever win the Super Bowl as a wild card, the Oakland Raiders went 2-4 in their first 6 games (their final season before moving to Los Angeles). After winning Super Bowl XXV in 1990, the New York Giants went 2-3 in their first 5 games in 1991. And after winning Super Bowl II in the 1967 season, following the loss of Vince Lombardi, the Green Bay Packers only won two of their first 6 games in 1968.
But at the time, only one team in NFL history had gone 0-4 in their first four games the year after winning the Super Bowl. The New York Giants won their first Super Bowl in 1986, defeating the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XXI. Then, the Giants went 0-5 to start off the 1987 season. However, you can put an asterisk next to that if you wish, since the 1987 season had the replacement players playing, and the Giants lost three of those five games with a replacement roster (the Giants are a .500 team if you take away the replacement games, which, while not great, is obviously not the same as starting 0-5).
The Denver Broncos were in pretty bad company to start off that 1999 season. The first game was on Monday Night Football against the Dolphins. Miami won easily, defeating Denver 38-21. It was a 38-14 game late in the fourth quarter before a garbage time touchdown by Ed McCaffrey on a pass from Brian Griese, so the score wasn’t even that close. They followed that up with a 26-10 loss to the Chiefs at Arrowhead. A 13-10 loss to Tampa Bay where the Broncos only had 8 first downs followed in week 3, and in week 4, the Jets got revenge from that AFC Championship, as the Jets went into Mile High and defeated the Broncos by a score of 21-13.
Part IV: The Sudden Decline of Terrell Davis
In this slump, teams stacked the box. It’s tough to stack the box on John Elway because he’s a top 10 QB all-time and he’ll make you pay for your mistakes. But stacking the box on an inexperienced Brian Griese? That’s doable. And because of that, Terrell Davis was kept in check during the 1999 season. In the first four weeks, he only averaged 3.15 yards per game. When you compare that to his 1998 season, where he was averaging over 5 yards per game, it’s like night and day. He didn’t have any game with over 80 yards rushing, and had just 2 touchdowns in the first 4 weeks of the season. Those numbers are pretty pedestrian, and for a guy coming off of a 2,000-yard season, are downright terrible.
Then, disaster struck. It was the moment that led to the tailspin of Terrell Davis’ career.
When the Broncos played the Jets, they threw five interceptions. Brian Griese threw 3, and Bubby Brister threw 2. Both quarterbacks were abysmal that day, with Griese posting a 31.3 passer rating and Brister posting a 30.8 passer rating. For perspective, spiking the ball into the ground on every play is a 39.6. You could do nothing but chuck the ball into the ground, and you’d have a higher passer rating than either Griese or Brister on that day.
On 3rd and 9 midway through the third quarter, Griese threw a pass intended for Shannon Sharpe. It got intercepted by Victor Green (one of the forgotten players of the late 90s and early 2000s, as he started 108 games in nine seasons for the Jets). As Terrell Davis went for the tackle, he tore two ligaments in his right knee, and had to have surgery to repair the ACL and MCL. That ended his season and forced Derek Loville into action right away.
In January, they had John Elway and Terrell Davis, and a Super Bowl title. In October, they had neither one, and an 0-4 start. All hope looked lost.
Then, Olandis Gary showed up.
Part V: Flying Out of the Gate
To replace Terrell Davis is a tall order. And Derek Loville was the man for the job, according to Mike Shanahan. Shanahan flat out said that Loville would be the starter heading into week 5 against the Oakland Raiders. And it made sense, seeing as Loville was the backup beforehand, while Gary didn’t even receive a carry in the first four weeks of the season.
But something changed. Because Shanahan quickly took that back, and in week five, Loville didn’t even play. Olandis Gary got the start, and had to do the bulk of the rushing. The only other player to get a legitimate rushing attempt (so I’m excluding Brian Griese’s seven carries, since they were quarterback runs) was Anthony Lynn (yes, that Anthony Lynn), who had one carry for one yard. The rest of the job was done by Olandis Gary.
And, sure enough, the Broncos won their first game of the season, taking it over their division rival by a final score of 16-13. Gary’s numbers don’t look amazing; he had 20 carries for 64 yards, and had a few rough drives, including a first quarter drive where he had 1 yard on 3 carries. But, the Broncos got the job done and got the victory. Gary got the chance to start his second game the following week against Green Bay, and to say that he delivered would be an understatement.
In a rematch of Super Bowl XXXII, to the surprise of many, the Broncos dominated in the second half, breaking out of a 3-3 tie to outscore the Packers 28-7 in the second half. Here’s one of Gary’s runs from that 31-10 victory, where he had 37 rushing attempts (a franchise record for most rushing attempts by a rookie) and 124 yards, including his first NFL touchdown on a 1-yard run at the goal line. Denver called his number early and often; on their first offensive drive of the game, Gary ran the ball 10 times. By the end of the first half, Gary either touched the ball or was the intended receiver on the play 21 times.
At the midway point in the season, following a 90-yard game against New England and a 79-yard game against Minnesota, he had 357 yards on 3.76 yards per carry, and had ran the ball 95 times (approximately 24 times per game if you do the math). He was getting all of the touches, and was making the most of them. Four weeks after Davis’ injury, and Gary went from not seeing the field to one of the best rookie running backs in the league.
Then, his true breakout game happened.
Part VI: The Breakout Game
What you have to understand going into the week 9 matchup between the Broncos and the Chargers was that the Chargers were an almost impossible team to run on. Joe Pascale is one of the forgotten defensive coordinators in league history, but his teams were always good at stopping the run. In terms of yards per attempt, the Chargers had the best rushing defense in the league in 1998, 1999, and 2001, and had the second best rushing defense in 2000 in this category. And in 1998, the Chargers led the league in fewest yards allowed on the ground.
During the 1998 season, teams averaged just 2.7 yards per carry on the Chargers. Among the highlights from that 1998 season in run defense included a performance against Arizona where even though the Chargers lost on a game-winning field goal by Chris Jacke at the last second to get the Cardinals into the playoffs for the first time since 1982 and for the first time since relocating to Arizona (a memorable game that ended in dramatic fashion and even a storming the field moment), they allowed just 25 rushing yards. There was also the game against the Raiders where Napoleon Kaufman started at halfback and had 12 carries for 17 yards, with Oakland having just 18 rushing yards for the entire game on 18 carries (it’s a game in serious consideration for one of the worst close games ever played; the Raiders won 7-6, and there were 15 first downs combined in the game, with 5 turnovers). And, there was a game against Baltimore where the Chargers won 14-13, and the halfbacks on the Ravens had just 18 rushing yards (Jim Harbaugh had 22 yards rushing, while Priest Holmes and Errict Rhett combined for 18). Bottom line- the Chargers’ run defense was really, really good. You don’t run on the Chargers.
And in 1999, that trend continued. In their first game of the season against the Cincinnati Bengals, the Chargers forced seven fumbles, and recovered four of them. Corey Dillon, who made the Pro Bowl and averaged 4.6 yards per carry in 1999, was stuffed, with 12 carries for 37 yards, as the Bengals were held to just 47 yards on the ground on 17 carries (less than 3 yards per carry). In a 20-10 victory over the Detroit Lions, the Lions had 37 rushing yards on 24 carries. If that’s not impressive enough, 20 of those yards came from quarterback Charlie Batch. Take Batch out of the equation, and on designed runs, the Lions had 19 carries for 17 yards. And, the week before against Kansas City, even though the Chargers lost 34-0, their run defense was not to blame; Kansas City ran the ball 39 times, but only picked up 97 yards, with no player on the Chiefs averaging more than 3 yards per carry.
Entering that game in 1999, the Chargers had gone 26 straight games without allowing a 100-yard rusher. The scene is now set. Running on the Chargers back in the late 90s was virtually impossible, and in comes a rookie halfback taking over the place of Terrell Davis. He then proceeds to do this.
For the first time in nearly two years, the Chargers had allowed a 100-yard rusher. Oddly enough, the last time the Chargers allowed a 100-yard rusher prior to Gary’s performance was in 1997 against Terrell Davis. But in this game, Gary had 108 yards and 2 touchdowns, both of which came in the second half.
What might make this performance more impressive is that he was relatively stuffed in the first half. On the opening drive of the game, Gary had just 12 yards on 5 carries. At the end of the first half, Gary only had 32 rushing yards on 12 carries. The Chargers defense was doing its job for the first half; Gary was ineffective, and had less than 3 yards per carry. But in the second half, he just went off.
After a few really solid performances in a row, averaging about 93 yards per game in his first 5 games, it was clear that Gary was up for the challenge. Following an 0-4 start, the Broncos had won 3 of their next 5 games, and a lot of it was because of Olandis Gary. And after not playing in any of the first four games, Gary already had two games with over 100 yards rushing, both of which were victories.
For him, the momentum wouldn’t stop for the rest of the season.
Part VII: Continued Form
Gary didn’t do a whole lot in his next game against the Seahawks (65 yards on 26 carries), but fast forward to a Monday Night Football game against the Oakland Raiders the next week. This was right before Denver’s bye week. It was a dramatic game, with the Raiders taking a 21-18 lead on a Michael Husted 44-yard field goal with just 1:21 left. But Brian Griese marched his offense down the field, and Jason Elam (one of the most underrated kickers in league history) drilled a 53-yard field goal to tie it up at 21-21. That sent the game into overtime.
And in overtime, after the Broncos forced a Rich Gannon fumble and turnover, Olandis Gary does this on the first play of the drive. Gary was never much of a big play halfback (he was consistent, but didn’t have a whole lot of long runs), but this was definitely the biggest play of his career. He followed up that performance with a rushing touchdown against the Chiefs on 4.36 yards per carry, and a rushing touchdown against the Jaguars the week after that.
By the end of the Jacksonville game (a 27-24 loss), the Broncos were eliminated from postseason contention, with a 4-9 record. It was definitely a disappointing season coming off of back-to-back Super Bowl titles. After losing just 9 regular season games in the previous 3 seasons combined (13-3 in 1996, 12-4 in 1997, 14-2 in 1998), the Broncos were already sitting at 9 losses through the first 13 games.
But in a rough season, Olandis Gary was a bright spot. And that was highlighted in week 15 and week 16. Against the Seahawks, Gary had 183 yards rushing on 22 carries, including this 71-yard run that was just short of a touchdown, and was named the AFC Offensive Player of the Week. The following week against the Lions, Gary had 185 yards rushing on 29 carries. He had played 11 games at this point, and was averaging over 100 yards per game. And while the season ended on a sour note, with just 38 yards on 18 carries against the Chargers (again, the Chargers were really tough to run on back then), he had established himself when all was said and done.
The final line for him on the season: 1,159 yards, 4.20 yards per carry, and 7 rushing touchdowns. He averaged 96.6 yards per rushing on the season, which was third in the NFL, only behind Stephen Davis of Washington and Edgerrin James of Indianapolis. He averaged 4.2 yards per carry, which was ninth in the NFL. And, he made it onto the All-Rookie Team alongside Edgerrin James.
Things were going great for Gary, and there was now a bright spot for the Broncos. They had the potential in 2000 to boast one of the greatest 1-2 combinations of all-time on the ground. Get Terrell Davis back healthy, and he’s your #1 option for obvious reasons. But Gary as the #2 halfback, seeing what he did in his rookie season, is a pretty good option to have.
And heading into the new millennium, the front office felt the same way.
Part VIII: The First Draft of the New Millennium
How good was Olandis Gary in 1999? He was so good that after the season, the Cleveland Browns wanted to trade for him. According to that article, the Browns inquired about trading for the fourth round pick out of Georgia, but Shanahan was only willing to give him up for a first round pick. Seeing as the Browns only had one first round pick, and that pick was the first overall pick in the draft, it didn’t make a whole lot of sense for Cleveland to pull the trigger. Because of this, Cleveland declined to inquire any further.
Keep in mind that Terrell Davis’ recovery time was 4-6 months after the game against the Jets, so there was no question that he’d be ready to go by this point. So for Shanahan to pretty much refuse to trade Gary, despite the fact that he’d be relegated to a backup status at this point, is somewhat surprising, and shows how much confidence the Broncos had in Gary. And it wasn’t unwarranted at the time; entering the 2000 season, Gary was literally mentioned in the same sentence as John Randle and Terrell Davis as guys who are late picks that become amazing. Two of those guys in that sentence are in the Hall of Fame.
But, the Broncos did need a halfback in 2000, since Derek Loville was traded to the Rams for a sixth round pick. Denver only had two halfbacks on the roster. Granted, they were both really good halfbacks in Terrell Davis and Olandis Gary, but that’s all they had. They needed a third halfback, so in the sixth round of the 2000 NFL Draft, they drafted Mike Anderson out of Utah. Anderson scored 22 touchdowns in his final two seasons with the Utes, and averaged 5 yards per carry in his final season with Utah in 1999 (the team’s first season in the Mountain West Conference). Still, the expectations were pretty clear. Davis would be the starter, with Gary as the best #2 halfback in the league, and Mike Anderson being the #3 option.
Seems like a really good plan on paper. But even the best laid plans go awry.
Part IX: Everyone Dies
On October 26, 2000, the episode of SpongeBob Squarepants titled “Something Smells” premiered. In this episode, SpongeBob is feeling down on his luck after he eats a sundae that gives him bad breath. Nobody wants to be around him because of it. His best friend, Patrick Star, tries to cheer him up by telling him a story about the ugly barnacle. In this story, which you can watch here and enjoy in all its humor, there’s a barnacle that’s so ugly that everyone dies.
I think that story was partially inspired by the halfback situation for the Denver Broncos at the start of the 2000 season. Everyone who played halfback died.
It was a Monday Night Football game against the defending champion St. Louis Rams. The champion from 1997 and 1998 was facing off against the champion from 1999. And it was a great game, with the Rams winning 41-36 after blowing a 35-20 lead late in the third quarter. But in this game, everyone at halfback died. Overnight, Denver’s situation went from maybe the best in the league to one of the worst.
Terrell Davis started the game, with 9 carries and 34 yards. Then, after a 32-yard field goal by Jason Elam, he never saw the field again. Turns out, he was injured with a sprained left ankle and foot, missing the next seven games. He then got injured later in the season with a stress reaction in his lower left leg. In two years, Davis went from the most productive halfback in the NFL to a guy who couldn’t stay on the field.
But Davis getting injured means that, once again, Olandis Gary gets his opportunity. He stepped in for Davis and performed really well, with 80 yards on 13 rushing attempts. Once again, he did his part filling in for the injured Davis. It’s no surprise that Gary did well, seeing as he did well in 1999, and had a pretty solid preseason, including a game against Green Bay where he had 94 rushing yards and a game against San Francisco where he scored.
Things would be just like last season. Terrell Davis can’t play, so Olandis Gary gets the start. This time, though, Anderson is the backup instead of Loville. If only it worked out that way.
Because Gary was running on a torn ACL.
I don’t know how he had 80 yards rushing on a torn ACL, but that’s what happened. Gary even said himself that he thought he could play on it. Following that game, Gary missed the rest of the 2000 season. Mike Anderson took over, and much like Gary, came out of nowhere to steal the show, posting 1,487 yards (4th in the NFL) and 15 touchdowns (5th in the NFL). On top of all of that, Anderson won the Offensive Rookie of the Year. If you placed a bet on the #3 halfback on the depth chart entering the season winning that award, then you probably left Las Vegas with a lot of extra cash when all was said and done.
Mike Anderson looked good. But coming off of a torn ACL is tough, and Terrell Davis coming off of back-to-back injury plagued seasons is tough. Denver’s once promising halfback situation looked a lot bleaker heading into 2001 coming off of a loss in the wild card round.
Part X: Bouncing Back?
Despite injuries to Davis and Gary in 2000, the Broncos kept things the same for the 2001 season. Denver didn’t spend a draft pick on a halfback. The only free agent halfback that the team signed in 2001 was Tony Carter, and he wasn’t much of anybody. In the previous season with New England, he had 37 carries and 90 yards, picking up 2 touchdowns. This was, hands down, the most productive season of his career. Denver was fine going into the season with a 3-headed monster of Davis, Gary, and Anderson, even though Davis couldn’t stay healthy, and Gary was coming off of a torn ACL.
But, once again, Davis couldn’t stay healthy. He had a great game on Monday Night Football against the Giants (I don’t know why the Broncos seemed to play on MNF in the first week of the season all the time back then), with 101 yards rushing. However, he got hurt, and wouldn’t play again until November 5 against the Oakland Raiders. Davis then got injured again in November against the Chargers, and would end up only playing 8 games in 2001.
So, we’re back to square one. This time, Gary entered the season behind Mike Anderson on the depth chart, so he didn’t see any playing time against the Giants since he was the third string halfback. But two weeks later (remember that nobody played the week after because every game got cancelled due to the attacks on September 11), Gary had one of the best games of his professional career, picking up 90 yards and a touchdown in a 38-17 victory over the Cardinals. This was his first appearance since the torn ACL that kept him out for practically all of the 2000 season, and he did not disappoint.
Gary was back, right? Not quite.
Turns out, that game would be a fluke. For the rest of the season, it was clear that he was not the same halfback. Granted, Denver’s rushing game was not the same in 2001 that it was in previous years; the team only averaged 3.9 yards per carry on the ground, and had just seven rushing touchdowns for the entire season. But to say that Gary struggled would be an understatement. He had just 43 carries for the rest of the season, picking up 138 yards (3.21 yards per carry). At this point, it was clear that he had fallen out of favor with Shanahan for Mike Anderson.
At the trade deadline, the Broncos tried to trade Gary to the Ravens, offering Gary and a fourth round pick to Baltimore for defensive tackle Lional Dalton and a second round pick. Eventually, the Broncos would get Dalton, as he would play for Denver during 2002, but that’s besides the point. Shanahan had no problem moving on from Gary and giving the entire workload to Mike Anderson and an eventually-healthy Terrell Davis (which never came to fruition).
Gary’s disappointing 2001 campaign ended in a Thanksgiving game against the Cowboys, where he broke a bone in his left leg. That game ended his season. After an incredibly promising rookie campaign, Gary had now had consecutive seasons ending in a season-ending injury. Combined with the injuries to Terrell Davis over the past three seasons, and the Broncos had to do something in 2002 to fix this problem.
Note: I had to break this up in the comments because the final word count was over 8,000 words.
Parts XI-XIII
Parts XIV-XVI

Bryan Armen Graham (The Guardian) - 115-112 to Kovalev
Chris Mannix (Yahoo! Sports) - 115-112 Kovalev
Kevin Iole (Yahoo! Sports) - 114-113 Ward
Lance Pugmire (LA Times) - 115-112 Kovalev
Dylan Hernandez (LA Times) - 114-113 Ward
Dan Rafael (ESPN) - 115-112 Kovalev
Stephen A. Smith (ESPN) - "...Kovalev winning by two rounds..."
Marcellus Wiley (ESPN) - Draw
Arash Markazi (ESPN) - Kovalev won
Dougie Fischer (Ring Magazine) - 117-110 Kovalev
Michael Rosenthal (Ring Magazine) - 114-113 Ward
Ryan Songalia (Ring Magazine) - 115-112 Kovalev
Al Bernstein (Showtime Sports) - Had Kovalev winning
Bob Velin (USA Today Sports) - 114-113 Kovalev
Tom Craze (Bad Left Hook) - 114-113 Ward
Scott Christ (Bad Left Hook) - 115-112 Kovalev
George Willis (NY Post) - 114-113 Ward
Mike Sloan (Sherdog) - 115-112 Kovalev
Steve Kim (Max Boxing) - 115-112 Kovalev
BoxingScene - 114-113 Ward
Lyle Fitzsimmons (CBS Sports) - 114-113 Ward
Forbes - 114-113 Kovalev
The Associated Press - 116-111 Kovalev
Kevin McRae (Bleacher Report) - 116-111 for Kovalev
Fraser Coffeen (Bloody Elbow) - 115-112 Kovalev
Dieter Kurtenbach (Fox Sports) - 116-111 for Kovalev
Gareth A. Davies (The Telegraph) - 115-112 Kovalev
Jesse Granger (Las Vegas Sun) - 115-112 Kovalev
Jack Jorgensen (FanSided) - Kovalev won
Zachary Alapi (FanSided) - "Thought Kovalev edged it..."
Johnny Nelson (Sky Sports) - Draw
Harold Lederman (HBO Sports) - 116-111 Kovalev
Phil D. Jay (WBN - World Boxing News) - 114-113 Ward
Robert Portis (The Fight City) - 115-112 Kovalev
Rafael G (The Fight City) - 114-113 Ward
Andreas Hale (Champions Fight) - Draw
Boxing Monthly Magazine - 114-113 Kovalev
Bill Simmons (The Ringer) - Kovalev won
26 for Kovalev, 9 for Ward, 3 draw

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09:30

BREAKING NEWS

Sam Clucas has arrived in Stoke to have a medical ahead of a move from Swansea, for a fee of around £6m, Sky Sports News understands.
09:30

BREAKING NEWS

West Ham sign striker Lucas Perez from Arsenal on three-year deal.
09:28

BARTON ON HIS FIRST DEADLINE DAY

Joey Barton is never a man to hide his feelings - and the Fleetwood Town manager has been speaking about his first deadline day in charge at Highbury Stadium.
https://twitter.com/ftfc/status/1027484097453715457
09:24

'DEFENDER DEAL STILL POSSIBLE AT UTD'

Sky Sports News reporter Fraser Dainton says Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho still interested in Harry Maguire, Jerome Boateng and Tony Alderweireld.
09:22

CARDIFF UPDATE

Victor Camarasa is having a medical at Cardiff ahead of a proposed loan from Real Betis, as Sky sources confirmed below - but there could yet be a late move for Harry Arter too.
That move would also be a loan, and the Bluebirds have approached Bournemouth over a move, but time is running out to get it over the line.
However, any deal for Marko Grujic of Liverpool looks to be dead in the water, with the Liverpool man seemingly set for a move abroad before the end of the month.
09:21

DEADLINE DAY ABROAD

Anthony Hagen is usually working for Sky Sports News on Deadline Day as a cameraman but, for the first time in a few years, he’s traded his camera and raincoat for a sun lounger in Crete! Of course, he’s still got an eye on the latest deals…
09:19

BREAKING NEWS

Real Betis midfielder Victor Camarasa is having a medical at Cardiff City, according to Sky sources.
09:16

MORE ON PEREZ

This may not come as a huge surprise - but Lucas Perez has completed a medical at West Ham and is set to sign from Arsenal after agreeing terms, according to Sky sources.
With Crystal Palace sniffing for fellow Hammer Michail Antonio, could this set off a chain reaction in the capital?
09:15

BREAKING NEWS

Lucas Perez has agreed terms at West Ham and passed a medical ahead of a proposed move from Arsenal, Sky sources understand.
09:14

KOVACIC EXCITED

Fresh from sealing his loan from Real Madrid, new Chelsea midfielder Mateo Kovacic told the club’s official website: “I am really happy and excited to be here at Chelsea. It is an amazing feeling. I will try to do my best for this club.
“It is a new league for me, the beginning is always tough but I am sure the coach and my new team-mates will help me and I am looking forward to a great season.”
https://twitter.com/ChelseaFC/status/1027482877389430784
09:12

KOVACIC COMPLETES CHELSEA LOAN

Mateo Kovacic has joined Chelsea from Real Madrid on a season-long loan deal.
The 24-year-old Croatia international arrives as part of a deal which sealed Thibaut Courtois’ move to the European champions.
Kovacic arrives at Stamford Bridge with a wealth of experience, having won La Liga and three Champions League titles at Real, as well as guiding Croatia to the World Cup final.
09:08

WHO'S THIS THEN?

The ex-Arsenal love is well underway for the Hammers. Lucas Perez has been papped on Jack Wilshere's Instagram story in the changing rooms at West Ham's training ground... announcement incoming?
09:06

FULHAM EYE ANGUISSA

Fulham hope to concude a Deadline Day deal for Marseille midfielder Andre Zambo Anguissa, according to Sky sources.
The newly-promoted Premier League club have been after a new defensive midfielder and Anguissa was one of the highest statistical performers in his position in France last season.
Fulham had been interested in Wolfsburg’s Josuha Guilavogui.
09:06

FRAMPTON TROLLS TOTTENHAM

Northern Irish boxer Carl Frampton has done a little trolling of Sky Sports News reporter Paul Gilmour. But will it be a knock-out punch for Spurs, or will they get one of their targets before 5pm?
https://twitter.com/RealCFrampton/status/1027473819626291200
09:03

BREAKING NEWS

Chelsea confirm the signing on Real Madrid midfielder Mateo Kovacic on a season-long loan.
https://twitter.com/ChelseaFC/status/1027480322731139072
08:59

BREAKING NEWS

Fulham hope to conclude a Deadline Day deal for Marseille midfielder Andre Zambo Anguissa, according to Sky sources.
08:54

WATCH: TRANSFER CENTRE

The latest transfer news brought to you straight from Sky Sports News, with updates on Harry Maguire, Jerome Boateng, Toby Alderweireld and more!
08:49

BOATENG TRAINING WITH BAYERN

Jerome Boateng is training with his team-mates at Bayern Munich’s training camp in Rottach-Egern this morning.
The Germany international did not play in last night’s friendly against FC Rottach-Egern and left before the full-time whistle - the game finished 20-2 to the Bundesliga champions.
08:49

HUDDERSFIELD UPDATE

The Terriers are still on the hunt for one more face, having enjoyed a busy summer after securing their second season in the Premier League in May.
Reporter Tim Thornton told Sky Sports News: "Isaac Mbenza is the player in question, a winger from Montpellier. He scored 10 goals in the French first division and we revealed yesterday he was in talks, and we understand those talks are progressing well. Most of the money they received for Tom Ince we expected to be reinvested in Mbenza. It would be quite a significant deal for Huddersfield.
"We also expect one out. Big German defender Michael Hefele, a popular figure here, he is in advanced talks with Nottingham Forest, and we expect that one to get done before the deadline today."
08:47

SAINTS SIGNINGS?

Jane Dougall has the latest from Southampton...
"It looks like there's going to be more departures rather than arrivals. Fulham were very impressed by Matt Targett during his loan at Craven Cottage, but I'm told Southampton want to keep hold of him.
“Watford have made an offer for James Ward-Prowse, but we understand that a loan deal would not interest Southampton.
"If there are to be any players in, it is probable that they will look to strengthen their strike force. A player who has been linked in the past couple of days is Danny Welbeck, who may want to leave Arsenal because he faces a battle for a first-team place, but Welbeck's wages could may well be a major issue.
"Liverpool's Danny Ings has again been linked with the club, but I'm told Southampton are not in for him."
08:43

BRIGHTON UPDATE

Sky Sports News reporter Roger Clarke has the latest on Brighton’s potential Deadline Day business...
"Brighton have been active in this transfer window, but the indications are that they might still be in the market for a central defender. The one they've been linked with throughout the summer is Liam Moore at Reading, but they haven't quite matched the valuation, even with the player handing in a transfer request.
"Brighton could turn their attention elsewhere, with Dan Burn at Wigan very much on their radar as well as Jack O'Connell at Sheffield United. Although they're happy with the business they've done, there might still be some more on deadline day. We'll hear from Chris Hughton around 1.30pm so he might fill us in with more details then."
08:42

OUT WITH THE OLD, IN WITH THE NEW

Chelsea haven't taken long to replace Thibaut Courtois' image outside Stamford Bridge. But how quickly can you get a big picture of Kepa printed up?!
08:37

PHANTOM SPLASHER UPDATE

It looks like the guilt has got too much to bear for the Crystal Palace splasher, who gave Sky Sports News reporter Michael Bridge a soaking (see 9.24) as he drove into training in Ruislip this morning.
Here's the latest from the prime suspect...
https://twitter.com/pvanaanholt/status/1027469829060657152
08:32

KEPA PRICED AT £7.6M

Chelsea may have paid a world record fee for a goalkeeper in the form of Kepa Arrizabalaga, but you can sign him for your Sky Sports Fantasy Football team for just £7.6m, £0.4m less than David De Gea.
Add him to your Sky Sports Fantasy Football team here
08:32

NO BUSINESS AT UNITED?

Jose Mourinho's press conference has kicked off with the Manchester United manager being quizzed about any further additions to his squad. The Portuguese had this to say...
"The information I have is no. I’m not confident. The market closes today so there’s time at least for me to stop thinking about it. I will have to focus on the players I have in relation to the first three matches, because after Spurs there is an international break and I have a couple of weeks to recover people and prepare them better. I have to focus on the players that are available."
08:28

KEPA WANTS TO GO DOWN IN HISTORY

Kepa Arrizabalaga is targeting sustained success with Chelsea after moving to Stamford Bridge for a world-record fee for a goalkeeper.
The 23-year-old joined from Athletic Bilbao for £72.1m Wednesday after Chelsea met his buyout clause. Kepa could make his debut in Saturday's Premier League clash at Huddersfield.
Kepa told Chelsea's official app, The 5th Stand, on Thursday: "All clubs need to fight to win titles and what all players want is to win. So what I would like is to win more titles for the club.
"This is what I aspire to do. I would like to be remembered at this club when I leave years down the line as a goalkeeper that has helped the club win a lot of titles and gone down in history in that way."
08:25

REPORTER GETS SPLASHED!

Michael Bridge is at Crystal Palace's training ground chasing the latest transfers but got a little too close to the action and was left with wet trousers.
08:24

MAGUIRE CATEGORICALLY NOT FOR SALE

Sky Sports News’ man in Leicester, Rob Dorsett, has this encouraging message for Foxes fans...
“The potential arrival of two defenders at Leicester makes no difference to their stance on Harry Maguire, they do not want to sell him.
“As far as they are concerned, he is categorically not for sale. He will not be going anywhere in this window.
“That’s the message I’m getting from my sources close to the deal, but of course, there is a long while left in the window. How much are Manchester United prepared to bid?”
08:23

MADURO RETIRES

Former Ajax, Valencia and Sevilla midfielder Hedwiges Maduro has announced his retirement at the age of 33.
Maduro, who won 18 caps for the Netherlands and played under new Arsenal head coach Unai Emery in Spain, was a free agent having departed Cypriot club Omonia Nicosia in the summer.
He had offers to extend his career from clubs in the Eredivisie and elsewhere, but he now intends to take on a different role within the game.
“I’m very excited about the future knowing what will come,” he said in a statement. “In very short notice I can tell you more about it, but football is not yet rid of me.”
08:22

FOREST TO SIGN HUDDERSFIELD MAN

Huddersfield defender Michael Hefele is in advanced talks to join Nottingham Forest on a permanent deal today, according to Sky sources.
It is understood that fellow Championship side QPR had wanted him on a season-long loan.
08:21

SO... HOW DO YOU SAY KEPA?

Chelsea's Kepa shouldn't be the most difficult to say compared to soe of their signings down the years, but is it kee-pah, kep-per or something else?
Cesar Azpilicueta, who has plenty to answer for in terms of difficult pronunciations, is here to help...
https://twitter.com/ChelseaFC/status/1027457098148466688
08:14

CHELSEA OPEN THE EXIT DOOR

Kaveh Solhekol is live at Stamford Bridge for Sky Sports News and expects a number of outgoings from Chelsea on Deadline Day, with Kepa their latest likely incoming.
He told Sky Sports News: "We are expecting Chelsea to let quite a few players go. AC Milan are in advanced talks to sign Tiemoue Bakayoko. We think that will be a loan deal. A lot of clubs are interested in signing Danny Drinkwater – West Ham, Leicester and Everton.
"There’s also still a lot of interest in Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Crystal Palace would like to take him on loan again. Quite a few clubs want to take Kurt Zouma on loan and young defender Jay Dasilva looks like he will be moving to Bristol City."
08:12

COURTOIS: AN UNHAPPY ENDING

New Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois took to Facebook to post his thanks to Chelsea fans last night, but soon took down the message because of the reaction - an unhappy departure from Stamford Bridge, it seems.
https://twitter.com/HLNinEngeland/status/1027291093908553729
08:10

GRUBS UP AT HUDDERSFIELD

Huddersfield Town have laid on this lovely spread for our reporter Tim Thornton...
08:08

BEHIND THE SCENES ON DEADLINE DAY

Just how does Deadline Day work when you're a Sky Sports News reporter sent to report from a Premier League club? Michael Bridge explains from Crystal Palace...
08:06

NEWCASTLE: WILL ASHLEY SPLASH THE CASH?

Newcastle United's difficult summer has been well-documented, and even the loan arrival of Salomon Rondon hasn't papered over that following Rafa Benitez's comments recently. Could things improve with a good end to the transfer window?
Reporter Richard Gravestold Sky Sports News: "They’re light defensively, not least because they've lost Florian Lejeune for an extended period of time. In the short term, Rafa Benitiez needs to bolster his defence. One name linked overnight is the 22-year-old Brazilian defender from Barcelona Marlon Santos, possibly on a loan deal.
"He will have to get a work permit sorted, which could be tricky. There's other options that need looking at as well, with Rafa Benitez saying he ideally wants a left back and a No 10 before the window ends, but time is of the essence and whether he can get the players in that he wants at the price that's acceptable to Newcastle remains to be seen."
08:05

POSH SIGN TONEY

Peterborough United have signed Newcastle United forward Ivan Toney on a long-term deal for an undisclosed fee, the Sky Bet League One club have announced.
https://twitter.com/theposhofficial/status/1027465643879280643
08:04

LIVERPOOL OUTGOINGS

More on Liverpool, where Danny Ings and Marko Grujic could be on their way out today. Simon Mignolet also has a chance of heading out.
Vinny O'Connor told Sky Sports News: "We are expecting outgoings at Liverpool. Grujic could potentially be going back to Cardiff on loan and there may be interest from Napoli for Simon Mignolet, but that doesn’t need to be done today. Chirivella has been linked with Celtic, Markovic could be moving to the continent and Origi and Ojo could leave as well.
"Danny Ings is expected to leave. He is looking for first-team football and Liverpool will let him leave. We understand there is interest from Crystal Palace, but there are a lot of reports of interest from Southampton. Our understanding is that there isn’t any interest at the moment and Southampton aren’t going in for him."
07:58

GRAYSON: BLACKPOOL JOB ‘VERY UNLIKELY’

Blackpool are looking for a new boss after Gary Bowyer left on Monday. It’s a club Simon Grayson knows very well as a former player and manager, and he was asked on Sky Sports News if he would be interested in a return.
He replied: “Not in this moment in time. I had a two-year deal at Bradford that I turned down in the summer, to take time out from the game.
“I’m enjoying the media stuff I’m doing at this moment, so I would say it’s very unlikely that I’ll be going to Blackpool.”
07:56

LIVERPOOL - FEKIR STILL A TARGET?

Vinny O'Connor told Sky Sports News where Liverpool sit in relation to the targets they've been chasing - Christian Pulisic and Nabil Fekir.
He said: "Fekir and Pulisic are two of the names that have been mentioned, but I have to say in all honesty Liverpool aren’t about to go back in for Fekir. That’s the information we’re getting at the minute.
"It also looks like there’s not a deal to be done to see Pulisic become a Liverpool player. However, we are used to seeing surprises sprung on Deadline Day."
07:56

BREAKING NEWS

Jordan Ayew will complete a season-long loan move to Crystal Palace from Swansea today, Sky Sports News understands.
https://twitter.com/SkySportsNews/status/1027465053245779968
07:54

WOLVES UPDATE

Our reporter at Molineux, Kirsty Edwards, has provided this update on Premier League new-boys Wolves.
She told Sky Sports News: “It’s been a pretty busy summer for Wolves, and we expect more business today.
“Leander Dendoncker from Anderlecht is very much expected to sign here today and we’re expecting the move to go through barring any last-minute complications.
“Another one in the pipeline is Oleksandr Zinchenko, this one has been rumbling on for a while and Manchester City are willing to let him go for £16m but the player is reluctant to leave the Premier League champions.
“Wolves will try to persuade him today, and it seem he is surplus to requirements at City. It’s certainly one to keep an eye on.”
07:50

WATCH: TRANSFER CENTRE

The latest update on all the goings on on Deadline Day - keep up-to-date with our video from Sky Sports News.
07:48

BOURNEMOUTH STILL ON HUNT

Bournemouth are still on the look-out for new signings, reporter Mark McAdam told Sky Sports News - but will Eddie Howe get his men?
McAdam said: “Bournemouth smashed their transfer record with the signing of Jefferson Lerma, but what will the club do today? We know in the past Eddie Howe is no stranger when it comes to making deadline day signings.
“The club are actively still looking to recruit, they are looking for a centre-back or a striker. As things stand, they are no closer to bringing anyone in, but they haven’t shut up shop as far as this transfer window is concerned.
“One of the big questions though is who is going to be leaving the club? There’s speculation about Jack Simpson, and there are two or three clubs interested in central midfielder Harry Arter. As things stand, there’s been no significant movement.”
07:38

'CLUBS WILL BE KEEN ON ROSE'

Simon Grayson is surprised Tottenham could be willing to let Danny Rose leave and expects more interest in the full-back.
07:38

MAGUIRE OR BOATENG?

Now Yerry Mina is off the cards following his move to Everton (see 8.20), there's some new updates on their pursuit of Jerome Boateng and Toby Alderweireld.
Sky Sports News understands the Manchester United board would prefer to sign Maguire, although Leicester have made clear he is not for sale - while Jose Mourinho would prefer Bayern Munich's Boateng.
07:37

CARDIFF CLOSE ON CAMARASA

Cardiff are working on a loan deal for Real Betis midfield Victor Camarasa, Sky Sports News understands.
Camarasa can play all positions in midfield but is most effective at No 8 or No 10.
The 24-year-old Spanaird did not feature in Betis recent friendly last Saturday.
07:32

SPOTTED: COOKIES

No sign of any players at the Emirates yet but Sky Sports News' Gail Davis had made a delicious signing of her own. We're not expecting this deal to last long...
07:29

BREAKING NEWS

Cardiff are working on a loan deal for Real Betis midfielder Victor Camarasa, according to Sky sources.
https://twitter.com/SkySportsNews/status/1027458509468782592
07:24

HAVE YOUR SAY!

So Yerry Mina looks set to be on his way to Everton, but where does that leave Manchester United? Which defensive reinforcement do you think they should sign?
https://twitter.com/SkySportsNews/status/1027447888648065024
07:20

MINA CLOSE TO EVERTON

Barcelona defender Yerry Mina is close to completing his move to Everton, according to Sky sources.
The Colombian defender was a Manchester United target, if they could not reach an agreement over Harry Maguire, but now the Toffees have swooped to get their man.
07:20

WHAT’S HAPPENING AT WEST HAM?

Sky Sports News reporter Aidan Magee has provided this update on West Ham’s pursuit of Arsenal striker Lucas Perez, who is expected to complete his move to the London Stadium today.
07:16

BATSHUAYI TO LEAVE THE BRIDGE?

Chelsea striker Michy Batshuayi wants to play for Valencia, reports Marca.
Batshuayi has decided to leave Chelsea this summer and wants to move to Valencia, who are keen to sign him on loan.
The 24-year-old Belgium international has also attracted interest from Atletico Madrid, Sevilla and Borussia Dortmund, where he spent the second half of last season on loan.
07:15

STRAIGHT IN, STRAIGHT OUT...

Sky Sports News understands Daniel Arzani could already be on his way out of Manchester City, five minutes after he was announced by the club!
Celtic will be the Australian's destination, we understand, on a long-term loan deal.
07:15

DEADLINE DAY WHISPERS

The hottest transfer stories which could be completed today, courtesy of our friends at Football Whispers...
https://storify.com/services/proxy/2/nXaePpAJb-ZFHocZj3i6OQ/https/d2kmm3vx031a1h.cloudfront.net/hHq1L90BQfSA2EGktbDH_whispers.PNG
07:10

REMEMBER THE NAME?

If you're trying to remember where you first heard of Daniel Arzani, the 19-year-old impressed off the bench for Australia in all three of their World Cup group games. And now he's continued Man City's recent forays down under - after they bought Aaron Mooy from the same club two years ago.
07:09

GOING THE EXTRA MILE

Rob Dorsett is our man at Leicester on Deadline Day, he's provided this update from outside the Foxes' training ground...
"Cameraman Steve Corkett trying to improve our Deadline Day backdrop, and get us a clearer view over the training ground!!"
07:07

BREAKING NEWS

Manchester City have signed Australian midfielder Daniel Arzani from Melbourne City.
https://twitter.com/ManCity/status/1027450913835900928
07:05

WILL JOSE GET WHAT HE WANTS?

A little pointer for later, too - Jose Mourinho's press conference ahead of Manchester United's Premier League opener with Leicester is on Sky Sports News from 9.30am.
Will he be happy? Will he be sad? A lot will depend on what Jose and Ed Woodward have been able to do behind the scenes at Old Trafford. So place your bets now..
06:56

ON THE SCENE IN CARDIFF

Sky Sports News reporter Michelle Owen is in position at the Cardiff City Stadium to bring you the latest transfer news from the Premier League new-boys...
https://twitter.com/MichelleOwen7/status/1027443278705254400
06:53

'LET POGBA BE FREE SPIRIT’

Stephen Warnock says Manchester United must give Paul Pogba a free role in midfield as he weighs up what defensive signings they might make.
06:50

DEMBELE STAYING PUT?

Reported Arsenal target Ousmane Dembele says he is staying at Barcelona this summer.
The France international, who joined Barca in a big-money move from Borussia Dortmund last summer, had a mixed first season at the Camp Nou and has seen competition for places increase even further following the arrival of Malcom from Bordeaux.
Dembele has been tipped to move away this summer, with Arsenal touted as a suitor, but he has revealed he intends to remain at the La Liga champions.
Speaking during a live chat on Twitch, he said: “Yes, I'm going to stay - and I'm ready for the Spanish Super Cup match against Sevilla.”
06:45

ANOTHER ONE AT ARSENAL?

Gail Davis has provided this update on Arsenal’s potential Deadline Day business.
She told Sky Sports News: “Arsenal have done the bulk of their business early. Unai Emery has said he wants to bring in at least one more player, and that is likely to be a defender. They’ve got Laurent Koscielny out injured until December, so they’re a little bit short there...”
06:40

BELLAMY: UNITED ARE DESPERATE

Speaking on last night’s episode of The Debate, Craig Bellamy criticised Manchester United’s fruitless search for defensive reinforcements.
“They’ve got themselves into a position now where they are desperate. They need to get a centre-back in,” he said.
“They seem every unsure of the players he has brought in before in Eric Bailly and Victor Lindelof. He isn’t convinced by them.
“I just don’t know. If I was an owner I’d be thinking you’ve had a lot of money for these players, you certainly don’t fancy them and now you want a lot of money for someone else.
“I think Manchester United are a little bit desperate at this present moment which is not like Manchester United and certainly not like Mourinho.”
06:37

THREE MORE AT FULHAM?

James Cole updated Sky Sports News from the Whites' training ground with the latest on Fulham's pursuit of Joe Bryan, and where else they may be busy today...
06:36

'GREALISH TO SPURS STILL POSSIBLE'

Sky Sports News reporter Paul Gilmour says Jack Grealish’s proposed move from Aston Villa to Tottenham is still a possibility.
06:31

DEADLINE DAY PAPER TALK

The biggest transfer stories making the back pages on Deadline Day...

• Arsenal want to take Barcelona winger Ousmane Dembele on loan for the season. (Daily Mirror)
  
• Christian Eriksen is Real Madrid's number one choice to replace Luka Modric, should the Croatian leave the club this summer. (Daily Mirror)
  
• Chelsea are preparing for an exodus of squad players after tying up the signings of Kepa Arrizabalaga and Mateo Kovacic. (Daily Telegraph)
  
• Manchester United have missed out on a deal to sign Jerome Boateng as the player's agent begins talks with PSG. (Daily Express)
  
• West Ham are considering a last-minute deadline-day move for Tottenham striker Fernando Llorente. (Daily Mail)
  
• Wolves are plotting a deadline day swoop for £22m PSG defender Layvin Kurzawa. (The Sun)
  
• Rangers boss Steven Gerrard fears losing key players with James Tavernier and Josh Windass linked with moves to England. (Scottish Sun)
  

06:30

ALL SET AT ARSENAL

Gail Davis has been stationed at the Emirates Stadium on Deadline Day. She’ll keep you across any last-minute business Arsenal may conduct, although things are rather quiet at the moment...
“We are ready to go at Arsenal as you can see we have everything we need! Not much else here in an empty stadium!”
06:28

BREAKING NEWS

Leicester agree £19m fee with Freiburg for centre-back Caglar Soyuncu, according to Sky sources.
The 22-year-old Turkey international will now undergo a medical and discuss personal terms with the Foxes.
https://twitter.com/SkySportsNews/status/1027442265155874816
06:25

‘UNITED MUST STRENGTHEN’

Former Liverpool and Blackburn full-back Stephen Warnock says he expects Manchester United to have a busy transfer deadline day, with Jose Mourinho looking to bring in at least one new centre-back.
Harry Maguire, Toby Alderweireld, Jerome Boateng and Yerry Mina have all been linked with moves to Old Trafford, and Warnock wouldn’t be surprised if more than one comes through the door in the next 10 hours.
Warnock told Sky Sports News: “Maguire is not only a very good ball player, but he’s also a very good defender. He proved that during the World Cup.
"It wouldn’t surprise me if they try to bring two of them in. They do need to get stronger, and I’m sure they’ll do that today.”
06:23

HAPPY BIRTHDAY FOR ROY?

Crystal Palace have wished boss Roy Hodgson a happy 71st birthday, but just how happy will it be for the former England manager? A lot more enjoyable if the Eagles can sort him out with a Ruben Loftus-Cheek-shaped present, that's for sure...
https://twitter.com/CPFC/status/1027435557549273089
06:20

UNITED SIGNING A SWEEPER?

https://twitter.com/SkySportsNews/status/1027438219816849409
06:17

MORE OUTGOINGS AT CHELSEA?

Sky Sports News reporter Kaveh Solhekol explains how Tiemoue Bakayoko and Danny Drinkwater could make Deadline Day moves away from Stamford Bridge.
06:16

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT MAN UTD?

Fraser Dainton is live at Manchester United's Carrington training ground for Sky Sports News, with expectations of moves for the club by the end of the window - or you can be sure Jose Mourinho won't be happy.
He said: "There are three names in particular that have been mentioned consistently as Manchester United try to get a defender in. First of all, we heard a lot about Jerome Boateng yesterday, although we understand that would only be on a loan deal.
"Another is Toby Alderweireld at Spurs, who has been consistently linked as well. Money is the stumbling block there. Harry Maguire is another player Manchester United are very interested in. We understand two bids have been made for the Leicester defender, the second for around £60m.
"Money is available for Jose Mourinho to spend, but the club are not keen, we understand, to be spending over the odds for particular players. It could well be a game of cat and mouse now."
06:13

MORE ON SPURS RADAR?

It's not just Grealish who seems to be interesting Spurs though. Tottenham and Arsenal have both been reportedly looking to bring Norwegian midfielder Sander Berge to London, with the player's agent said to be in the capital finalising a move.
The 20-year-old, who plays for Genk, made his Norway debut in 2017 and is in the mould of current Spurs midfielder Mousa Dembele - who could yet leave the club today.
06:09

SPURS LATEST

Sky Sports News' Paul Gilmour is live at Spurs' Enfield training ground with the latest on what they could be up to today - and there's a familiar name they are still in the market for.
He said "The man near the top of Spurs’ list is Jack Grealish. Aston Villa have told Tottenham that he is not for sale, but we understand the player wants to go.
"Add into the mix, Aston Villa have signed a similar type of player to Grealish in John McGinn from Hibernian. All of a sudden it means it has still got the potential to go through today. Certainly talks will continue over the next few hours or so."
06:06

A QUIET DAY FOR SOME...

One place you can rule out any big arrivals, it seems, is Burton Albion. The League One club aren't expecting much to happen at the Pirelli Stadium today. No wild Lionel Messi spottings at East Midlands airport then.
https://twitter.com/burtonalbionfc/status/1027434336889593856
06:01

'NO TRANSFER BARGAINS ANYMORE'

Speaking on last night’s episode of The Debate, Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish says a poor exchange rate with Europe has changed the way clubs spend.
05:51

THE RIDDLE OF KOVACIC

With Mateo Kovacic close to sealing a season-long move to Chelsea, what can the Blues expect from the Real Madrid man?
Here's Adam Bate's expert view on how they can unlock the undoubted potential of the World Cup runner-up...
05:44

SCHALKE INTERESTED IN ROSE LOAN

Schalke are in talks with Tottenham over the loan signing of Danny Rose, according to Sky sources.
Along with Schalke, Rose has been given permission to talk to other unnamed clubs over a season-long loan move.
Earlier this month, Sky sources reported Tottenham would listen to offers for Rose, Toby Alderweireld and Mousa Dembele.
Rose, 28, has faced an uncertain future since criticising the club's ambition and wage structure in 2017, for which he subsequently apologised.
05:36

BIG NEWS FROM BURNLEY?

Burnley have been tweeting early this morning as the clock ticks down on Deadline Day - but it's ahead of their first overseas European game since 1967 at the Fatih Terim Stadium against Istanbul Basaksehir.
The Clarets have already signed Matej Vydra from Derby and tied Ben Mee down to a new deal, so it could be a quiet Thursday for Sean Dyche. But as we've learned down the years, never say never on Deadline Day.
https://twitter.com/BurnleyOfficial/status/1027421960974872576
https://twitter.com/BurnleyOfficial/status/1027423339009245184
05:33

HAVE YOUR SAY

https://twitter.com/SkySportsNews/status/1027404803465535488
05:26

DEADLINE DAY ON SKY SPORTS NEWS

Alex Hammond and Mike Wedderburn are pumped for Deadline Day - are you? Follow all the latest done deals, news and gossip on Sky Sports News as the English summer transfer window draws to a close at 5pm...
05:26

COURTOIS AGREES REAL MOVE

Thibaut Courtois is getting his dream move to Real Madrid in a deal that will see Mateo Kovacic join Chelsea on loan for the season.
The Belgium international only had a year left on his deal at Stamford Bridge and has been absent from training this week as he looked to push through before the transfer window ended.
Courtois' move to Real Madrid is now only formalities away from completion.
A statement from Chelsea read: "Chelsea and Real Madrid have tonight agreed terms for the permanent transfer of Thibaut Courtois subject to the agreement of personal terms and passing a medical.
"Subject to the completion of the deal Mateo Kovacic will join the Blues on a season-long loan."
05:17

BIG MOVERS TODAY?

There's going to be some big money spent on Deadline Day this year, if the likes of Tottenham, Manchester United and others are going to get what they want - here's some of the biggest possible moves which are in the offing:
Those are the big ones, but there's a whole host of other names in the mix - and, I'm sure, more to follow out of the ether.

• Harry Maguire - Manchester United have retained an interest in the England defender for some while, and had a £60m bid turned down already. Leicester, however, remain determined that even a world-record bid will not be enough to tempt them to sell.
  
• Jerome Boateng - if that one doesn't come off, Manchester United are also keen on Jerome Boateng, with Sky sources telling us the Germany defender would like to move to Old Trafford.
  
• Danny Rose - Tottenham are in talks with Schalke over a possible loan move for the England left-back, with other clubs also expressing an interest in a temporary move.
  
• Jack Grealish - Spurs have had a bid rejected for the Aston Villa midfielder, but sources have told Sky Sports he is "very disappointed" he is not allowed to move - having been promised he could leave at the start of the Transfer Window, before Villa's new owners took over.
  

05:16

CHELSEA SIGN KEPA

There’s only one place to start this morning and that’s with a look back at Chelsea’s historic capture of Kepa Arrizabalaga yesterday.
The Blues broke the world transfer record for a goalkeeper, agreeing a £71.6m deal with Athletic Bilbao for the 23-year-old Spain international.
The fee surpasses the previous record, which was set only last month when Liverpool paid £66m for Allison.
Chelsea have put their faith in Kepa, handing him a seven-year contract at Stamford Bridge through to 2025.
05:08

BRYAN EYES PREM OVER VILLA

More on that story involving Bristol City's Joe Bryan, whois having a medical at Fulham this morning, according to Sky sources.
The Whites have agreed a deal with the Robins to sign the 24-year-old left-back - who looks like he could turn his back on Aston Villa, who agreed a fee for him yesterday.
Bryan is understood to prefer a move to the Premier League.
05:05

DEADLINE DAY HEADLINES

• Chelsea confirm Kovacic loan
  
• Perez signs for West Ham
  
• Jose 'not confident' of deals
  
• Mina close to Everton move
  
• Ayew set for Palace move
  
• City sign Arzani, Celtic loan??
  
• Leicester agree Soyuncu fee
  
• Clucas arrives at Stoke
  
• Kepa wants to win titles
  
• Courtois unveiling due at noon
  
• Fulham close on Bryan, Anguissa
  
• Schalke in talks for Spurs' Rose
  
• Papers: Arsenal want Dembele
  
• Deadline Day on Sky Sports
  
• Premier League ins and outs
  
• New football season offer
  
• Fantasy Football: Win £50k
  

05:00

BREAKING NEWS

Joe Bryan is having a medical at Fulham this morning, according to Sky sources.
04:53

SAGNA JOINS MONTREAL

It's not the big news we promised just yet, but former Arsenal and Man City defender Bacary Sagna has joined Montreal Impact until the end of the season.
The Frenchman spent some of 2018 at Benevento, joining in February, but left the club at the end of the season before moving to the MLS.
04:49

GOOD MORNING!

Well, ladies and gentlemen, this is it. The big one. Transfer Deadline Day, one of the most frantic but exciting days in the football calendar, when coffee is as much of a currency as pound sterling and airport sightings appear from places you'd never even heard of.
Join us for an action-packed day here on the Sky Sports transfer blog, where we've got some big news coming up for you shortly...
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