November 9 -- November 15, 2026

Issue No. 667

Credit: Carl Macki

Should Charlie Brown Have Been Allowed to

Finally Kick the Football?

Charles Schultz

November 26, 1922 -- February 22, 2000

Note: Most photos in each issue are linked to Facebook albums produced by our talented photographers. To enjoy additional photos, simply click on a photograph or on the link provided at the end of each report. New albums, contributor essays and Sports Today issues are continually posted to: www.ultimatesportsguide.net

Write: theultimatesportsguide@gmail.com

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Contents



Games

Cal Bears (Mbkb) 115 vs. Adams State University 86

Cal Bears (Mbkb) 84 vs. Radford University Highlanders 70

Cal Bears (Wbkb) 80, Washington State Cougars 58

San Jose State Spartans 30, Northern Illinois Huskies 19


Features & Commentary

Billy Casper, from the Autograph Collection of Rich Yee

Newsletter, Image, Likeness, by Darren Heitner, Esq.

Opposing Offensive Strategies & Quandaries, by Carl Macki

Waving Hello, by Andy Dolich


Letters to the Editor

Deja Vu All Over Again

Back in September, (Sports Today, Issue #659), I noted: "A quick note: To Stephen A. and First Take, (which I actually enjoy), and all the other sports talk shows, you proved Silence is indeed Golden, as in "Brock Who?" Not a word about #13, and mere breadcrumbs for the 49ers." Shortly thereafter, Brock Purdy suddenly was elevated to MVP status, where he remains with the panelists.

 

Now, it's Deja Vu All Over Again, (thanks to Yogi Berra for that pearl of wisdom). After "total silence" for the first weeks of NBA action, guess which team has suddenly been discovered and anointed as "Locked and Loaded" for the Playoffs. Yes, even "Big Perk" has discovered Yaxel Lendeborg, Stephen Curry and the bigger, faster and tougher Golden State Warriors and now proclaims the team as a "legitimate top playoff contender." 


Robert A. Moselle, Esq.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertamoselle/


Air Show Bonanza

The Rich Yee photos are beautiful and terrifying. Wow! Thanks for the amazing air show!


Penny Matson

Nevada City, CA


Editor: To enjoy Rich Yee's Fleet Week Blue Angels album,

click here.

San Francisco 49ers 38, Las Vegas Raiders 17

Levi's Stadium, Santa Clara, CA

Sunday, November 8, 2026


For "The Best Defense Firm in the NFL,"

I recommend Warner & Greenlaw.

 

Plenty of big plays by fresh and rehabilitated

49ers, coupled with an abundance of penalties

by a highly motivated Raiders team were

the keys to this 38-17 49ers victory

at Levi's Stadium.

 

Watch All The Action Here!

San Francisco 49ers vs. Las Vegas Raiders | Week 9, NFL 2026

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sNQJenFh30k



-- Robert A. Moselle, Esq.

https://www.cce-mcle.com/aboutus

Opposing Offensive Strategies

& Quandaries

Have An Opinion?


49ers Skipper Kyle Shanahan and Bears Head Coach Ben Johnson make fascinating subjects for a study in contrast and comparison because few coaches better demonstrate how a shared offensive foundation can produce strikingly different systems.


Both speak much of the same offensive language:

pre-snap motion, play-action deception and a

running game designed to make every call

strengthen the next.


Shanahan favors disciplined outside-zone structure,

bootlegs and clearly defined quarterback reads;

Johnson counters with a broader running menu,

rotating backs, inventive personnel packages

and greater freedom to adapt.


Their methods differ—but both aim to keep

defenses reacting instead of thinking.


(For a Chicago Bears vs. Seattle Seahawks

recap, see below.)


Conceived and illustrated by Carl Macki. Comments?

Write: theultimatesportsguide@gmail.com

2026 WNBA Champions!!!!

Golden State Valkyries

 

Recapping the Championship Parade for Your 2026 WNBA Champion Golden State Valkyries



The Bay turned violet. The Golden State Valkyries brought the WNBA championship home, and the whole Bay showed up to celebrate. A franchise this new isn't supposed to be lifting a trophy yet,

but here we are:


WATCH HERE!



San Jose State Spartans 30

Northern Illinois Huskies 19

CEFCU Stadium, San Jose, CA

Saturday, November 7, 2026

San Jose State freshman quarterback Daniel Rolovich threw for 231 yards and a touchdown in his first collegiate start to lead the Spartans (5-5, 3-3 in the Mountain West) to a 30-19 victory over the Northern Illinois Huskies on Saturday, November 7th

at CEFCU Stadium.

Running back Villami Teu powers his way into the end zone for

his second touchdown of the game.

Sophomore wide receiver Dominique McKenzie led the Spartans with 71 yards receiving, including a 29-yard touchdown catch.

Linebacker Aizik Mahuka (7) and defensive end Justin Stearns (left) combine for one of five Spartans sacks on the day.

San Jose State Spartans linebacker Jeremiah Tuiileila (center right) forces a fumble by Northern Illinois Huskies quarterback Taron Dickens (5) during the third quarter at CEFCU Stadium.

To view a photo album, visit www.ultimatesportsguide.net

Photos and captions by Darren Yamashita.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d9baSRwxL0o

For Sports Today

Readers!

Dear Treasured Reader

and Sports Fan --


Directly below is a link to several years of sports magic and memories, all documented by our talented team of professional photographers, specifically Rich Yee, Darren Yamashita, Ed Jay, Alex Ho, and Ron Sellers.


Provided are examples of their work and to

view each album, simply click the respective photo.

For a large selection of albums, click the link

immediately below.


https://conta.cc/4ieZNre


###

Golden State Valkyries 70

Seattle Storm 56

Saturday, September 19, 2026

Photos and captions by Rich Yee


San Francisco Giants 6

San Diego Padres 7

Saturday, September 12, 2026

Photos and captions by Darren Yamashita


Bay Area Sports Hall of Fame

(BASHOF)

Thursday, May 14, 2026

Photos and captions by Ed Jay


California Bears 49

Wagner Seahawks 7

Saturday, September 19, 2026

Photos and captions by Ron Sellers


Stanford Cardinal 37

Hawaii Rainbow Warriors 27

Saturday, August 29, 2026

Photos and captions by Alex Ho


For more albums:

https://conta.cc/4ieZNre

Beat The Drum Quickly

 

The Inventor of Joy for Millions of Sports FansI

Waving Hello!


by Andy Dolich

When the Brewers clinched their first World Series

Championship in franchise history I was transported back 45 years to October 15, 1981. I saw a person standing in the left field stands at the Oakland Coliseum in cut off denims and an A's gold

t-shirt banging a drum.

 

This now 82-year-old lives in Northern California. The San Jose State University graduate was a member of the Judo team who later joined the Spartan’s cheerleading squad. A friend gave him a snare drum to bang during his sound barrier breaking cheers at the school’s sports events.

 

His career as a Pro cheerleader began with the NHL’s California Golden Seals. His San Francisco Bay Area intensity caught the attention of the NASL’s San Jose Earthquakes to kick off their first season in 1974. From 1975-79 he shouted and banged his drum for the Kansas City Chiefs.

His Spartan Start

In 1989 Charlie Finley sold the Oakland A’s to the Haas Family owners of Levi-Strauss for $12.5 Million dollars. A few months ago the Los Angeles Lakers were sold for $12.5 Billion dollars.


A colleague, Matt Levine, was consulting with the Haas Family on the business side of the A’s purchase. Through Matt’s connection I became a candidate for the VP of Business Operations in December of 1980. My experience in dealing with teams that weren’t winning started with the Philadelphia 76ers selling season tickets for a team that went 9-73 in 1972-73. I had heard about Krazy George while working for the Washington Diplomats Soccer team. We hired him to help us energize an A’s fan base that had shrunk under the last few years of Finley’s ownership. I was searching for novel ways to attract fans. We hired Krazy

George to help fill the vacuum of fans and fun.

 

You always knew where Krazy was in the Coliseum. He had a big smile on his face, an A’s gold t-shirt, shiny head and cut off denim shorts along with a sound barrier-breaking scream and his trusty drum.

Creating Coliseum Cacophony!

On October 15, 1981, the night our season ended with a 4-0 loss to the Yankees in the American League championship series, Krazy

George started to yell instructions to fans in three sections near him in left field, encouraging them to stand and shout in order. He also told them to boo if his Krazy new Wave died, as it did after lasting a few sections. The next time it went about one-third of the way around the ballpark.

 

By now, most people in the crowd of 47,302 understood his Krazy

plan. On the third attempt, The Wave included A’s fans in the

upper deck, swept all the way around the Coliseum and arrived back at its starting point in left field. A’s fans had no way of knowing their starring role in creating the first Wave in Pro Sports.

 

A’s Hall of Fame broadcasters Bill King and Lon Simmons took

notice. “Crescendo rising here,” King said on the air, as The Wave

moved from section to section. “It’s amazing, I’ve never seen

anything like this.”

 

My mission in 1981 was to bring fans back to A’s games, two years

after Finley’s frugality led to an embarrassing attendance total of

306,763 for the 1979 season. In 1981 more than 1.3 million spectators came to the Coliseum for only 56 home games in a strike-shortened season. If we had played the full 81 game home schedule the franchise would have set the record for the greatest year to year attendance increase in MLB history.



The dramatic turnaround was fueled by “Billy Ball” advertising, the

team’s success on the field and the Fanaticism that Krazy George

created for our fans in the stands and for sports spectators from

coast to coast in every sport.

* * *

Andy Dolich operates Dolich & Associates, a sports consultancy, in Los Altos. A local resident, Dolich has more than 50 years of experience as an executive in professional sports, working with the Oakland A's, San Francisco 49ers, Golden State Warriors, and hockey and soccer teams. Dolich is also the co-author of Goodbye, Oakland, is available in bookstores and from Triumph Books. For earlier articles by Andy Dolich published in Sports Today!

click HERE.

Cal Bears 84

Radford University Highlanders 70

Haas Pavilion, Berkeley, CA

Wednesday, November 4, 2026

Home Game Number Two and missing head coach Mark Madsen, who attended a family matter, associate head coach Adam Mazarei stepped in and led the team to a win. Above, launching one of ten 3-point shots during the game, Nojus Indrusaitis (#25) hit six from behind the stripe to finish with 30 points and the game's scoring title. The University of California Golden Bears played host to the Radford University Highlanders for a non-conference men’s basketball game at Haas Pavilion on

November 4 in Berkeley, CA.

Taking to the air down the lane, guard Michael Cooper (#55) caught mid-air looks for the easy layup in the first half.

Late in the first half, Jovani Ruff (#1) shouts out after feeding

on a breakaway slam dunk.

Senior transfer guard Jordan Ross (#2) dishes the ball to the approaching teammate Sammie Yeanay (#23) for the assist during the second half. To view a photo album, visit www.ultimatesportsguide.net

Photos and captions by Ron Sellers.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FQQ_8qdKWZk

Chicago Bears 34

Seattle Seahawks 17

Lumen Field, Seattle, WA

November 2, 2016

 

Caleb Williams celebrates Chicago’s win over the

Seattle Seahawks on Monday Night Football,

November 2, 2026.

Bears vs. Seahawks: Chicago’s Defense Made the Difference


by Carl Macki


Seventeen plays, 80 yards, and 8:32 of the Bears slowly

strangling the clock—until Caleb Williams flipped a one-yard touchdown to Luther Burden III. That opening drive ended Seattle’s run of 16 games without surrendering an opening-possession score, and the champions’ home crowd felt the first crack in the ice.


Then Seattle fought back, and the game turned wild.


Jeffery Simmons, four days after being traded from Tennessee, sacked Sam Darnold. A facemask penalty on Grady Jarrett handed Seattle 15 free yards and a fresh set of downs, but the Bears’ defense held firm, forced a punt, and made the gift worthless. Moments later, Jaxon Smith-Njigba had the Seahawks poised at the goal line, but a pass-interference flag wiped out the play and pushed them back to the 22.


Simmons finished with six tackles, a sack, a pass defensed, and two tackles for loss. Montez Sweat, his old Mississippi State teammate, added a sack and three hits. Seattle managed just 26 rushing yards in the first half and converted only 1-of-11 on third down.


Still, the champions responded. Smith-Njigba broke free for a 43-yard touchdown with 30 seconds left in the half. A Bears fumble gave Seattle a short field, letting them creep to 20-17 as the stadium roared. Chicago answered with a 39-yard run by Kalif Raymond that set up a touchdown to extend the lead to 27-17.


Then came the knockout. Austin Booker swatted down a 33-yard field-goal attempt and later tipped a Darnold pass, which James Lynch intercepted and returned to the Seattle 6. D’Andre Swift, who scored three short touchdowns on the day, punched it in for his third. One last Seahawks drive died on fourth-and-four at the Chicago 7.


Looking ahead to the Super Bowl picture, I am torn. The odds favor the 49ers, as they should. They were 6-1 entering the weekend, have the pedigree, and benefit from Seattle’s stumble in the NFC West.


However, watching Simmons collapse the pocket with Sweat arriving a half-second later reminded me of their days in Starkville. That style of defense gives Williams room to operate without having to win games entirely on his own. The offense gets relief, the defense gets teeth, and January belongs to teams built like this.


So: 49ers on paper, Bears in the gut. A November forecast is only a forecast, but did Santa come early for Chicago in Seattle?


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j8XRNpYOsos

# # #

Carl Macki is a writer, poet, graphic artist, and thinker, open to new ideas and ways of building a better world by developing our human potential. He sees sports and athletics as an integral part of that pursuit. Carl can be reached at (415) 323-9187 (cell/text).

Cal Bears 115

Adams State University 86

Haas Pavilion, Berkeley, CA

Tuesday, November 2, 2026

It was an impressive start to the 2026-2027 Cal men’s basketball season. Getting out early and building on the Grizzlies' cold shooting and turnovers, the Golden Bears built a 29-point lead by halftime and held on for a 115-86 win. Above, junior transfer Nojus Indrusaitis (#25) steps back to drill a 3-point shot and finish with 20 points. The University of California Golden Bears played host to the Adams State University Grizzlies for a non-conference men’s basketball game at Haas Pavilion on Tuesday,

November 2 in Berkeley, CA.

Redshirt freshman Jovani Ruff (#1) makes his defensive presence felt, getting the block in the opening minutes of the

26-27 home-opener.

Coming off the bench and getting into his flow early, transfer Michael Cooper (#55) launches one of the eight 3-point attempts, hitting six behind the line and would be the game's

scoring leader with 24 points.

Driving down the lane for a thunderous dunk midway through the first half, junior transfer Sammie Yeanay (#23)

finished with 21 points.

Letting it all out, post-dunk Sammie Yeanay (#23)

flexes for the crowd in the first half.

To visit a photo album, visit

www.ultimatesportsguide.net

All photos and captions by Ron Sellers.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aWtN4oWyGAw

Cal Bears 80

Washington State Cougars 58

Haas Pavilion, Berkeley, CA

Monday, November 2, 2026

Cal Bears guard Lulu Twidale was all smiles after finishing with 26 points and eight rebounds to lead the Bears to an 80-58 season-opening win against their former Pac-12 foe Washington State Cougars on Monday, November 2nd at Haas Pavilion.

Senior transfer guard Shannon Dowell contributed

17 points and seven rebounds.

Freshman guard Ruby Perkins also pulled down seven rebounds

as the three guards led the Bears on the boards.

A California Golden Bears fan works on a laptop during the second quarter against the Washington State Cougars at Haas Pavilion.

California Golden Bears guard Lulu Twidale (10) warms up before the game against the Washington State Cougars at Haas Pavilion.

To visit a photo album, visit www.ultimatesportsguide.net

All photos and captions by Darren Yamashita.

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Goodbye, Oakland: Winning, Wanderlust,

and a Sports Town's Fight for Survival


* * *

For purchase through Triumph Books

Our Mission:

Weavery's mission is to provide data and ai strategy advice, training, and innovative solutions to high impact humanitarian organizations. Weavery leverages artificial intelligence to enhance operations and amplify impact to serve a world in need. 

San Francisco 49ers

The 49ers Sign DL Beal Jr.

to Practice Squad

Nov 03, 2026 at 01:42 PM


The San Francisco 49ers announced they have signed DL Robert Beal Jr. to the team's practice squad.


Beal Jr. (6-4, 250) was originally drafted by the 49ers in the fifth round (173rd overall) of the 2023 NFL Draft. Throughout his four-year NFL career with the 49ers (2022-25) and Miami Dolphins (2026), he has appeared in 27 games (one start) and registered 25 tackles and 1.0 sack. He has also appeared in four postseason contests with San Francisco. In 2026, Beal Jr. appeared in two games and registered one tackle with Miami before being released from the team on October 30.


A 27-year-old native of Duluth, GA, Beal Jr. attended the University of Georgia (2017-22) where he appeared in 54 games (10 starts) and registered 72 tackles, 12.0 tackles for loss, 10.5 sacks, two passes defensed, two forced fumbles and one fumble recovery.


continued...

Golden State Warriors

Stephen Curry Scores 41 Points, Powers Warriors Past Magic in Overtime Thriller


Kalyb Champion

November 7, 2026 8:29 PM PDT


Stephen Curry did a bit of everything, with 41 points, six rebounds, and six assists in the Warriors’ 124-119 overtime win over the Orlando Magic at Chase Center on Saturday. Curry scored 19 of his 41 points in the fourth quarter and overtime — each of his four fourth quarter field goals were clutch baskets to tie or take the lead in the final three minutes. He finished with his 16th 40-point game since his 35th birthday, breaking a tie with LeBron James for the most in NBA history.


Yaxel Lendeborg added 23 points, eight rebounds and three blocks, while Brandin Podziemski had 15 points, seven rebounds and four 3-pointers. The Dubs outscored the Magic 16-9 in overtime, shooting 5-for-7 from the field while holding Orlando to 2-for-9 shooting. Golden State overcame a 33-2 differential in second chance points which resulted in 33 fewer shot attempts. They made up for that difference by being more efficient from the field (53.8 FG% GSW - 38.1 FG% ORL), on 3-pointers (46.9 3PT% - 33.3 3PT%) and from the foul line (80.6 FT% - 71.4 FT%). With the win, the Warriors become the first team since the 1950-51 Boston Celtics to win seven straight games after starting 0-3.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=arqo72QbnOM


(Photo by Noah Graham/NBAE via Getty Images)

continued...

San Francisco Giants 

 

San Francisco Giants pitcher Tristan Beck on July 8, 2023 versus the Colorado Rockies. Photo by Darren Yamashita.

 Buttó, Beck among 9 players departing from Giants


November 2nd, 2026



This story was excerpted from Maria Guardado’s Giants Beat newsletter. To read the full newsletter, click here. And subscribe to get it regularly in your inbox.


By Maria Guardado


SAN FRANCISCO -- Facing a roster crunch, the Giants announced a flurry of moves to get their 40-man roster back down to an even 40 players on Monday. 


The Giants cut nine players, with José Buttó (Rangers), Duncan Davitt (Reds), Brett Harris (Phillies), Shay Whitcomb (Phillies) and Zach Morgan (Orioles) each being claimed off waivers. Joel Kuhnel and Seth Lonsway cleared waivers and were outrighted to Triple-A Sacramento, while Tristan Beck was placed on unconditional release waivers. Reiver Sanmartin was also designated for assignment.


The purge gave the Giants the roster space they needed to reinstate 15 players -- Blade Tidwell, Randy Rodríguez, Rafael Devers, Carson Whisenhunt, Jesus Rodriguez, Keaton Winn, Adrian Houser, Casey Schmitt, Joel Peguero, Harrison Bader, Daniel Susac, Matt Chapman, Trevor McDonald, Hayden Birdsong and Rowan Wick -- off the 60-day injured list on Monday


continued...

The Chieftain Irish Pub & Restaurant


"Join us for Great Food,

Great Beer and a Great Time." 


We are located one block from the Moscone Convention Center, only a short walk from many of downtown San Francisco's familiar hotels, attractions, and diverse businesses. Open Monday through Thursday 4pm. Friday, Saturday, Sunday 12pm. Come by and raise a glass with us. Sláinte!


www.thechieftain.com

The Buck Stops Here!

undefined

The Ultimate Sports Guide seeks talented souls to join our company in a Sales capacity. Social Media knowledge and skills a Plus!



If you like Sports, consider joining the USG Team. Send along your resume and get ready

to Play Ball!


Write: theultimatesportsguide@gmail.com


p.s. -- The handsome gentleman above is a

regular at USG's Central Coast office.

Athletics

 

Cam Castro, Athletics' new general manager.

New GM Castro, POBO Smith give glimpse into vision for A's


by Martín Gallegos


This story was excerpted from Martín Gallegos' Athletics Beat

newsletter. To read the full newsletter, click here. And

subscribe to get it regularly in your inbox.

LAS VEGAS -- After an extenive search for new front office leadership, the Athletics have identified two bright young minds from franchises known for winning to guide this upcoming new era.


It began Oct. 19 with the hiring of Taylor Smith as president of baseball operations. Just over two weeks later, the A’s paired him with Cam Castro, who was officially hired on Wednesday as the club’s general manager.


Before working for the Red Sox over the past two seasons as a senior vice president/assistant general manager, Smith spent seven seasons with the Rays. Castro, meanwhile, arrives following eight seasons with the Brewers, the past two years as Milwaukee’s senior vice president of player development and performance.


These two figures, who have spent most of their careers in baseball with the two teams that just met up in the World Series, are now tasked with melding their knowledge to form a prosperous duo with the A’s. In a press conference Thursday to introduce Castro at the A’s Experience Center in Las Vegas -- set to become the club’s new home city in 2028 -- the two discussed their vision to build a perennial winner together.


continued....

Oakland Ballers

Ballers Fam,


We’re deep into the off-season, but we’re still scary good at baseball.


Of course, you can never take a “Baller Out The Bay” but we did send a contingent of 9 past and present all-star Ballers to South Korea to become a part of the first-ever American team to compete in the KBO Fall League.



Playing with the Long Beach Coast (we’re frenemies, for now) our B’s are undefeated in the KBO Fall League and just clinched the 1-seed in the playoffs.




This trip to South Korea has been an incredibly rewarding experience for our team. An opportunity so special that legendary coach Don Wakamatsu, our SVP of Baseball Operations, even came out of managerial retirement to lead the squad.


So how can you follow along?


The KBO Fall League Semi-Finals and Finals will take place on October 29th and 30th and will be streamed live on the KBO YouTube channel.


The first postseason game will be on Thursday at 8pm PST and we’ll be having an official watch party at Oakland Athletic Club, located at 59 Grand Ave, Oakland, CA 94612


And for a behind-the-scenes look, Ballers shortstop Tremayne Cobb Jr. has been filing regular reports from the road alongside our guy Esai Santos and first baseman Jeter Ybarra.



continued...

Out With Crackerjacks

The standard for major league stadium food has evolved far beyond hot dogs and peanuts, with coast-to-coast arenas offering restaurant-caliber seafood that captures the

culinary identity of their home cities.

Lobster Roll


Nowhere is this policy on display more than in San Diego’s Petco Park: Lobster Roll – loaded with fresh lobster and charred

lemon garlic aioli on a chive brioche bun.


Lob Dog


The Lob Dog -- A unique twist combining a grilled lobster tail and andouille/chorizo sausage base in a brioche bun.


-- Steve Chain / Innovative Food Fanatic


(Have a food item to share with our discerning reviewer?

Write: theultimatesportsguide@gmail.com)

San Jose Sharks

Harley has three points, Stars hand Sharks fifth straight loss


Rantanen extends point streak to five for Dallas; Celebrini has three assists for San Jose


By Robert Tiffin

NHL.com Independent Correspondent

November 7, 2026


DALLAS -- Thomas Harley had a goal and two assists, all on the power play, and the Dallas Stars held on for a 4-3 win against the San Jose Sharks at American Airlines Center on Saturday.

Roope Hintz had a goal and an assist, and Mikko Rantanen and Wyatt Johnston each had two assists for the Stars (10-5-2). Jake Oettinger made 20 saves.


“We’re snapping it around pretty quick. I’m trying to distribute, but also be a shot threat from the point. Try and keep those guys honest,” Harley said. “Most of my job is passing left or passing right, and the other guys make it look good.” 


Macklin Celebrini had three assists for San Jose (7-11-1), which has lost five straight (0-5-0). Will Smith had a goal and an assist for the Sharks and Alex Nedeljkovic made 26 saves.


“I thought we did some good things again, some positives, but unfortunately come up on the losing end again,” Sharks coach Ryan Warsofsky said. “We’re making strides these last two games. Again, we gotta stick to the process and just continue to work and get better, and the results will come.”


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vQuNZxVPS4I


continued...

San Jose Earthquakes

 

MATCH RECAP:

Earthquakes 1,

Minnesota United FC 3


Quakes drop regular-season finale but still clinch home-field advantage in Round One of Audi 2026 MLS Playoffs; Fourth-seeded San Jose to host fifth-seeded Houston Dynamo FC in Game One of Best-of-3 Series in first-ever home playoff game at PayPal Park; Date and time

to be announced Sunday


Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026


ST. PAUL, Minn. — The San Jose Earthquakes fell to Minnesota United FC 3-1 on Saturday night at Allianz Field in their Major League Soccer regular-season finale but still secured home-field advantage in Round One of the Audi 2026 MLS Cup Playoffs by virtue of finishing fourth in the Western Conference.

The Quakes struck first in the 45th minute when Niko Tsakiris took the ball from his own end, beat one defender, dragged the same one forward a few more yards, and when three more Loons surrounded him, split the remaining two men on the backline with a pinpoint through ball for Preston Judd. The Quakes striker subsequently and calmly buried the ball in the back of the net past MNUFC goalkeeper Drake Callender for his career-high 17th goal to tie Jeremy Ebobisse for the third-highest single-season total in club history to make it 1-0.

After intermission, the hosts equalized in minute 57 when Tomás Chancalay split the San Jose center backs in transition, dribbled powerfully into the box, and slotted a low shot past goalkeeper Angus Gunn to make it 1-1. In minute 82, MNUFC pulled ahead off a corner kick when the ball was cleared to the top of the 18-yard box. It fell right to Nectarios Triantis, whose left-footed low attempt for the far post bounced off the post and off Gunn into the back of the net for an own goal. The Loons added a third goal in the fourth minute of stoppage time when Triantis again got the ball in space, charged forward and fired a shot that found the twine for the final 3-1 margin.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cVFBRfm_SaM

 

continued...

Oakland Roots FC

 

​The Coverage That Goes Beyond the Doctor’s Office

Build a Health Plan That Supports the Whole You


When you’re choosing health coverage, it’s easy to focus on one question: “What will this cost me?” But your healthcare needs don’t begin and end at the doctor’s office.


This Open Enrollment, our health partner Anthem Blue Cross encourages you to consider the bigger picture as you explore your options. Think about the services and resources that could make it easier to take care of your health throughout the year. Anthem Individual & Family health plans can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital care, mental health benefits, and prescription drugs, along with $0 virtual care and $0 preventive care on applicable plans.


Plans available through Covered California are offered in Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum levels, which differ in how you and your health plan share costs. You may also qualify for financial help based on factors such as your income and family size.



Ready to kick off your search? Explore your options and find coverage that works for you and your family.

continued...

Bay FC


Brick-by-Brick: The Growth of

Jordan Silkowitz


10.30.26 Article Bay FC Staff


Just four weeks ago, Bay FC goalkeeper Jordan Silkowitz experienced something she could only dream of as a kid: she was called up for the U.S. Women’s National Team. Only three years into her professional career, this was the fourth time she earned the honor. “Ever since I knew what the National Team was, I knew that’s what I wanted to do,” she stated earlier this year. Although she didn’t get to play in either of the national team’s friendlies against Spain, her time training with the team is a testament to how far she’s come in her career.


After playing for two colleges, she was the first from her university to be drafted to play in the NWSL. When she didn’t get time on the pitch on that team, she was loaned abroad. After being traded to Bay FC, she didn’t play in her first year and thought about quitting the sport entirely. But Silkowitz stuck with it, honing her craft on a daily basis, and when the opportunity presented itself, she was ready. In two seasons since, the Fairfax, Va. Native has become a standout goalkeeper that Bay FC relies on week in and week out, and her talents are now acknowledged nationally to boot. While she started as a virtual unknown, Silkowitz has become a cornerstone of Bay FC, along with a fan favorite. 


continued...

 Hardly Trivial by T. Buff

While looking at material about a possible baseball strike/lockout...


I got caught up in reading a series of questions

about things I had no idea were issues in the game.


Did you know batters cannot tap their helmets at

certain times in the course of a game? 


Why can't batters tap their helmet?


-- answer below --

Billy Casper -- from the Autograph Collection of Rich Yee

In my youth, I attended many golf tournaments with my uncle. I met and was very fortunate to get Billy Casper to sign this ball for me. Billy was one of the best golfers in the 1950- to 1970s winning 51 PGA tournaments. He is a member of the World

Golf Hall of Fame.


Rich Yee, Sports Today photographer


A Remarkable Journey to Enjoy --

Simply Click for New Adventures


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Newsletter, Image, Likeness Vol. 209: The Protect College Sports Act Was Never Likely to Pass. Tuesday Probably

Made It Official


by Darren Heitner, Esq.

Founder of Heitnerlegal -- Sports, Entertainment, Trademarks, Copyrights, Business, Litigation, Arbitration


The Weekly Longer NIL Thought

Not a single member of the House of Representatives has cast a

vote on the Protect College Sports Act. And they may never do so.


I said in this space in September that Ted Cruz could count votes in his own chamber but could not schedule the other one. I was asked on Wednesday for odds, and I put them at roughly 80% against passage. Maybe I was being generous. This bill seems like it's pretty much dead. The only question left is whether anyone in Washington D.C. will bother to hold a funeral before the 119th Congress ends.


My friend Kyle Saunders, who has tracked this bill more rigorously than anyone in the political science world, did some counting. The current House sits at 218 Republicans, 214 Democrats, one independent, and two vacancies. Bringing a bill to the floor the ordinary way requires adopting a rule, and the minority party rarely supplies votes for the majority's rules. That leaves Speaker Mike Johnson able to lose one or two Republicans, depending on where Kevin Kiley lands.


Now count the Republicans who have already asked for changes in writing. On October 2, twenty-one House Republicans, most of them from Florida and the Carolinas, asked leadership to amend the bill before final passage and to strip or substantially rewrite the conference membership provision that would make it harder for Miami, Florida State, Clemson, and North Carolina to leave the ACC.


Majority Leader Steve Scalise has said he opposes the bill in its current form and wants a ban on classifying athletes as employees. Other members want a cap on international athletes. Saunders also found Heritage Action listing the bill on its most recent lobbying report, which matters because plenty of House Republicans watch that group's positioning. Grant any one of those requests and the House has amended the bill, which sends it back to a Senate whose staff has described the text as a finished product. A Senate that needed all summer to produce seventy-seven votes (which was, admittedly, remarkable) is not going to reassemble that coalition in the four or five legislative weeks between now and the holidays.


continued...

WeatherTech Raceway

Laguna Seca

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 29, 2026

A historic starting grid at Laguna Seca.


WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca celebrates its 70th anniversary — Legends of Motorsport to be the highlight feature of the 2027 Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion


“70 Years of Laguna Seca: Legends of Motorsport” will celebrate the people, machines, and moments that have shaped seven decades at the iconic California circuit. 


MONTEREY, Calif. (October 29, 2026) — In celebration of the 70th anniversary of Laguna Seca, the 2027 Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion will present “70 Years of Laguna Seca: Legends of Motorsport,” a sweeping tribute to the people, machines, innovation, art, design and culture that have defined the automotive and motorcycle worlds across seven generations at Laguna Seca. 


Rather than celebrating a single marque, the 2027 Reunion will honor the extraordinary breadth of motorsport history that has unfolded at Laguna Seca since the circuit opened in 1957. Throughout the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion, Legends of Motorsport will come to life as a living exhibition, pairing significant race cars and motorcycles with the drivers, riders, designers, engineers, team owners and personalities who made them legendary. Together, they will tell the stories of seven decades of competition, innovation, and unforgettable moments at one of the world’s most revered racing circuits. 


Legends of Motorsport will be brought to life through a series of featured pillars that celebrate the many dimensions of motorsport and its influence across generations. Racing Legends and Drivers will reunite celebrated competitors with the machines and moments that defined their careers; Collectors and Influential Personalities will showcase the visionaries who have preserved, championed and shaped automotive history; Art & Photography will capture motorsport through the eyes of renowned artists and image-makers; Designers and Builders will recognize the creative minds, engineers and craftspeople responsible for some of the world’s most iconic machines; and Fashion & Lifestyle will explore how motorsport’s distinctive style, energy and culture have influenced life far beyond the racetrack. 


continued...

Sonoma Raceway

Brian Flynn Named President of Sonoma Raceway


Following more than three years of elevating the business performance of the largest motorsports facility in Northern California, Flynn was promoted from Executive Vice President and General Manager to

President of Sonoma Raceway

​

SONOMA, Calif. (October 26, 2026) – Accomplished motorsports executive Brian Flynn has been promoted from executive vice president and general manager to president of Sonoma Raceway. Speedway Motorsports President and Chief Executive Officer Marcus Smith made the announcement Monday.


For more than three years, Flynn has elevated the business performance of Northern California’s largest motorsports facility while continuing to expand Sonoma Raceway’s reputation and event calendar as a race fan, tourist and corporate event destination in wine country. Sonoma Raceway annually hosts thousands of guests from around the world for signature events such as the Toyota/Save Mart 350 NASCAR Cup Series race, the Ferrari Challenge North America, the DENSO NHRA Nationals and the Velocity Invitational. Under Flynn’s leadership, Sonoma Raceway has earned the Speedway Motorsports Acceleration Award for the past two years, recognizing year-over-year gains in financial performance.


continued...

Hardly Trivial Answer by T. Buff

Umpires View A Helmet Tap...


after a called strike as a mocking, unsportsmanlike gesture—essentially showing up the official or arguing balls and strikes, which violates MLB conduct rules

and can result in an immediate ejection.


High-profile ejections, such as Tampa Bay Rays

infielder Taylor Walls getting tossed by umpire

Nic Lentz, highlight how strictly umpires enforce

this rule [0.6.1,  Going to this link will get you

more info than you will ever need... 


Go Patriots -- Go Celtics -- Go Valkyries

What Did Back Issues

of Sports Today Look Like?

See For Yourself!

Click: www.ultimatesportsguide.net


Universities & Colleges

Cal Bears

 

Cal Closes Season With Win

Over Syracuse

Bears Earn Second ACC Victory of the Season


By: Cal Athletics


SYRACUSE, N.Y. – The California women's soccer team defeated Syracuse, 2-0, in its final match of the season Thursday evening at SU Soccer Stadium.


The Golden Bears and Orange were held scoreless in the first half, entering halftime tied 0-0.



Cal opened the scoring in the 48th minute when Soleil Dimry found the back of the net off an assist from freshman Lauryn Fleshman. Miriam Hils extended the Golden Bears' lead to 2-0 in the 64th minute with a penalty kick.


The Golden Bears finished the 2026 season with an overall record of 5-8-5 (2-6-2 ACC). The victory over Syracuse also marked the final match as Golden Bears for the team's seniors and graduate students.


continued...

Stanford Cardinal

Men's Basketball

Welcomes Rice

Stanford wraps up its three-game homestand at

Maples Pavilion on Monday


SETTING THE SCENE

Looking to close its season-opening homestand at 3-0, Stanford welcomes Rice to Maples Pavilion on Monday, Nov. 9 at 7 p.m. The action will air on ACC Network Extra, while the radio feed can be found on YouTube, Sirius XM or GoStanford.com.


continued...

San Jose State Spartans

Spartans Surge Past NIU,

Presented by Webcor


SAN JOSE, Calif. - Viliami Teu had two touchdowns on the ground, and Daniel Rolovich completed 16-of-27 passes for 231 yards and one touchdown in his third career start to lead San José State (5-5, 3-3 MW) in a 30-19 win over NIU (0-9, 0-5 MW) Saturday afternoon from CEFCU Stadium, presented by Webcor.


continued...

Saint Mary's College Gaels

SWIM | Men Down Roadrunners 197-175 for Program’s Second Win

of the Season


BAKERSFIELD, Calif. - The Saint Mary's swim team headed south to take on Bakersfield in a two-day meet starting on Friday and earned a hard fought victory on the men's side, downing the Roadrunners 197-175 for the program's second win of its inaugural season. 


continued...

USF Dons

Dons Fall to California in First

Lake Tahoe Classic


STATELINE, Nev. – The San Francisco Women's Basketball team had its first road game of the season, as they lost to California in the first game of the Lake Tahoe Classic, 87-65.


The Golden Bears took a 22-12 first quarter lead after Maul Gisella and Ruby Perkins led the way for Cal with five points each in the first. The Dons' Lucia Yenes also finished the first with five points, shooting two-for-five from the field while sinking in one of her two three-point attempts in the quarter. Yenes finished with 11 points and four rebounds.


Cal freshman center Jovana Jevtovic led the game in scoring, scoring 18 off the bench while shooting eight-for-nine from the field and hitting both of her two three-pointers. The Golden Bears, thanks in part to Jevtovic, led the game with 37 bench points, with the Dons following close by with 31.


continued...

Santa Clara Broncos

Fedor Zugic had eight points in the big 19-2 second-half run


Broncos Use Big Second-Half Run

to Improve to 3-0

SANTA CLARA, Calif. — Santa Clara men's basketball overcame an early double-figure deficit and used a 19-2 second-half run to put away Sacramento State, 83-77, on Saturday night to remain undefeated on the young season. 


continued...

University of Pacific Tigers

Winston Posts Season-High 20 Points, Tigers Stifle Braves in Defensive Battle

PEORIA, Ill. – Led by Jaden Winston's 20-point scoring performance and a strong defensive effort, University of the Pacific men's basketball team (2-0) defeated Bradley (1-1) 63-52 Saturday evening at Carver Arena.

 

Three players scored in double figures for Pacific, with Winston reaching the 20-point threshold for the first time this season, scoring a game-high 20 points on 53.8 percent (7-of-13) shooting, and added two assists and five steals.



JLGomes Photography

continued...

UC Davis Aggies

Aggies Drop Season Finale

At Nevada


RENO, Nev. — UC Davis (6-10-3, 4-5-1 MW) finished a much-improved season with a 1-0 loss at Nevada (5-13-1, 2-7-1 MW) in a Mountain West match Saturday at Mackay Stadium. The Aggies' six wins in their second season under head coach Kat Mertz doubled their win total from a year ago and their four conference wins in their first campaign in the Mountain West were three more than their single win in the Big West a year ago.


continued...

Cal State University East

Bay Pioneers

Bush's Last-Second Jumper Lifts Pioneers Past Oklahoma Baptist in Season Opener


LAKELAND, Fla. – The Cal State East Bay men's basketball team opened its 2026-27 season in dramatic fashion Saturday afternoon, defeating Oklahoma Baptist 69-67 on a game-winning jumper from Jaayden Bush with three seconds remaining at Jenkins Field House. In a rematch of last season's NCAA Division II Elite Eight matchup, the Pioneers came away with the victory over the team that ended their postseason run a year ago.


continued...

Watch any program on CCE's YouTube channel, or, for attorneys, earn MCLE credits online, economically, with "The Best in Topics and Talent." 



Center for Continuing Education, Monterey, CA is a State Bar of California MCLE approved Provider, #8450

https://www.cce-mcle.com/

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Weekly Bay Area

Sports Calendar


Monday, November 9, through

Sunday, November 15, 2026

Monday, November 9

Golden State Warriors vs. New Orleans Pelicans, 7 p.m.

San Jose Sharks vs. New York Islanders, 7 p.m.

Tuesday, November 10

Sacramento Kings vs. Orlando Magic, 7 p.m.

Wednesday, November 11

Golden State Warriors @ Houston Rockets, 6:30 p.m.

San Jose Sharks vs. Pittsburgh Penguins, 7 p.m.

Thursday, November 12


Friday, November 13

Golden State Warriors @ San Antonio Spurs, 6:30 p.m.

Sacramento Kings vs. Portland Trail Blazers, 7 p.m.

Saturday, November 14

San Jose Sharks @ Utah Mammoth, 6 p.m.

Sacramento Kings vs. Oklahoma City Thunder, 6 p.m.

Cal Bears @ Virginia Cavaliers, 12:30 p.m.

Stanford Cardinal @ Virginia Tech Hokies, 4:30 p.m.

San Jose State Spartans @ Air Force Academy Falcons, 4 p.m.

Sunday, November 15

San Francisco 49ers @ Dallas Cowboys, 1:25 p.m.

Las Vegas Raiders @ Seattle Seahawks, 1:05 p.m.

San Jose Sharks vs. Nashville Predators, 6 p.m.

Organizations

A's

Bay Area Falcons

Bay FC

Cal Bears

Cal State University East Bay

Golden State Valkyries

Golden State Warriors

Oakland Ballers

Oakland Roots SC

Oakland Soul SC

Oakland Spiders

Saint Mary's College Gaels

San Francisco 49ers

San Francisco Giants

San Francisco Nighthawks

San Francisco Unicorns

San Jose Earthquakes

San Jose State Spartans

Santa Clara Broncos

SF City FC

Sonoma Raceway

St. Francis Yacht Club

Stanford Cardinal

UC Davis Aggies

University of Pacific Tigers

USF Dons

WeatherTech Raceway Laguna

Seca

Publisher: Christopher Weills

Associate Publisher: Ann Cooke

Marketing Director: Robert Moselle

Sales: Ayiko Konopaski

Contributors: Lydia Chain, Steve Chain, Harvey Cohen, Andy Dolich, Pete Elman, Rob Flammia, Bruce Macgowan, Robert Moselle, Howard Pearlstein, Amaury Pi-Gonzalez, T. Buff, Shelia Young. Dave Newhouse (dec.)

Software Engineer / Sports Today! Editor: Medhavee Upadhyaya

Technology Advisors: Silas Everett, Gaurav Chaulagain

Staff Photographers: Jeff Bayer, Alex Ho, Ed Jay, Ron Sellers, Darren Yamashita, Rich Yee, Kenny Karst (retired), Elliott Smith (dec.)

Advisor: Arif Khatib

Artist: Carl Macki

Website: www.UltimateSportsGuide.net

Contact us at: theultimatesportsguide@gmail.com

Sports Today!'s Book Shelf

FIELD OF PLAY

For the past 60 years, Michael Zagaris has taken his camera behind the scenes of the NFL, capturing the moments that define America’s game.

To order: https://www.zagarisbook.com/

Now Available!

Insights and Outtakes,

Excerpts and Epiphanies from

the World of Sports

written by Pete Elman


Essays Recently Shared:

Do They Have Greatness in Their Future (#493)

Rocket -- Or Flawed Star? (#472)

Just Win, Baby (#473)

Knockin' on Heaven's Door (#474)

It Was More Than Just A Game (#475)

Looking Over The Ledge (#476)

The Slider That Saved Baseball (#478)

Is This The Last Dance? (#480)

The Heart of a Champion (#483)

The Warriors: An Appreciation (#485)

“A must read…an in-depth look into stories that come from all avenues of professional sports."

-- Andy Dolich, prominent Bay Area sports executive



To order: $18.50

(includes shipping)

Visit Pete Elman at  https://www.peteelman.com/insights-and-outtakes

"An invaluable and inspiring compilation that shines a light on unsung athletes of color."


To order:

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377

 LOL, Loss of Logo: What’s Your Next Move? was written for sports professionals by Andy Dolich and Jack Hirschman and offers valuable takeaways for everyone chasing the fancy logo and corner office.

The Emerald Mile: The epic and award-winning story of the fastest ride in history through the heart of the Grand Canyon, by Kevin Fedarko. A thrilling true tale during the legendary flood of 1983.

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The Ultimate Sports Guide is very appreciative to the ongoing contributions made by former staff photographer Kenny Karst and Robert Moselle. Mr. Karst, now retired, continues to contribute helpful ideas and his archives.

Mr. Moselle, Esq., is now lending his extensive editorial experience and marketing savvy to the publication.

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