
MLS Matchday 23 Preview: Debuts, Struggles and Playoff Forecasts
From Seattle's new striker to Atlanta's high‑priced recruit, the latest wave of signings promises to reshape the league's balance as clubs battle for postseason spots.
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From Seattle's new striker to Atlanta's high‑priced recruit, the latest wave of signings promises to reshape the league's balance as clubs battle for postseason spots.

Texas Longhorns target a 2026 College Football Playoff return, relying on quarterback Arch Manning’s growth, a tough November slate and a deep recruiting class.

The Boston Bruins and Pittsburgh Penguins lead the national TV schedule this season, Atlanta's second arena proposal advances, and key player storylines unfold across the league.

USA TODAY Sports projects Alabama as an at‑large playoff team, setting up a first‑round clash with Texas and a potential Rose Bowl finish

After opening the season with a top‑six national ranking, Baylor’s soccer team leans on veteran leadership, key newcomers and a challenging schedule to chase another Sweet 16 appearance.

The new appointment sees Khaled El-Ahmad taking charge of player development, recruitment and the club’s long-term identity, reporting to CEO Andy Loughnane.
Khaled El‑Ahmad joins Austin FC as chief soccer officer, bringing two decades of MLS and international experience, while Minnesota United appoints Hank Stebbins as interim sporting director.

The NHL is planning its next expansion, with a 34th franchise likely to land in Texas, while player rankings and schedule changes ripple through the league.

The Union held firm after conceding an early equaliser, with Andre Blake’s saves and a collective defensive effort ensuring a share of the spoils.

The league’s deputy commissioner confirmed that a Houston‑based ownership group led by billionaire Dan Friedkin has secured the $2 billion expansion fee, while talks continue in other markets.

Philadelphia Union and Inter Miami CF shared a dramatic 2-2 stalemate, highlighted by Indiana Vassilev’s early strike, Neil Pierre’s equaliser, and a fiery stoppage‑time clash that saw red cards for both sides.

With both clubs locked in a 5‑5‑10 stretch, the Union’s defensive solidity under Richter and the emergence of Cavan Sullivan could tip the balance in a tightly contested MLS match.

A young boy’s detention after his father’s arrest has reignited debate over the treatment of migrant families by immigration authorities.

Fifteen games on the 21st matchday of MLS pit top Western Conference contenders, a struggling Seattle Sounders side, and a host of marquee player debuts, setting the stage for a decisive push toward the playoffs.

Bowie High School enters the 2026 season as a top‑ten team in Central Texas, bolstered by recent UIL realignment, a strong returning defense, and a standout running back.

Roman Martinez, JP Briseno and Hector Cadena receive All‑State accolades, highlighting a near‑historic season for the Panthers.

The University of Texas women's soccer program has quickly become a focal point of preseason buzz after five of its key athletes were named to the preseason All‑Southeastern Conference squad, highlighting a promising start to the program's debut under new leadership.

The Union can only move forward if both Austin and Chicago lose tonight, a scenario that would also hinge on goal difference and a narrow chance of fourth‑place finish

Austin FC announced Andy Loughnane as its new chief executive officer, consolidating business and soccer responsibilities. Anthony Precourt will stay on as chairman and continue his role on MLS’s board, as the club seeks a new sporting director to guide future growth.

The Horned Frogs will open their 2026 season against North Carolina in Dublin, spotlighting former running back Joseph Turner, a 2007 Offensive MVP whose career stats and coaching legacy continue to shape TCU football.

Faith‑based groups, city officials and a local university joined forces to convert a derelict field into a $500,000 soccer park, providing a new venue for community sport and exemplifying collaborative social justice

The University Interscholastic League confirmed the Alamodome in San Antonio as the championship venue through 2028, emphasizing both tradition and openness to explore alternative sites.

The 2026 preseason marks a pivotal moment for Texas football programs, blending health‑focused preparation with leadership development.

A Colorado judge’s preliminary injunction could grant fifth‑year eligibility to 2022 graduates, affecting Baylor athletes across football, basketball and baseball as the NCAA prepares to appeal and reshape eligibility rules.