Sam Farmer

Crews set up stage for NFL Draft on Tuesday, April 23, 2019 in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Vera Nieuwenhuis)

NFL mock draft 2019: Sam Farmer makes his final picks

April 25, 2019 at 12:00 p.m.

Mysteries abound heading into the 2019 NFL draft, which kicks off at 5 p.m. PDT Thursday. Will the Arizona Cardinals select Oklahoma quarterback Kyler Murray with the first overall pick...

FILE - In this Oct. 6, 2018, file photo, Oklahoma wide receiver Marquise Brown (5) gestures "horns down" as he celebrates after scoring a touchdown on a 77-yard reception against Texas in the second half of an NCAA college football game at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas. The Texas-Oklahoma rivalry is never short on bad blood between the Big 12 border states. (AP Photo/Cooper Neill, File)

Marquise ‘Hollywood’ Brown ready to take thrilling ride at NFL draft

April 25, 2019 at 12:04 a.m.

Reporting from Nashville — The first round of the NFL draft unfolds Thursday night, and Marquise “Hollywood” Brown is strapping in for the ride of his life. He’s among the most coveted...

NFL draft needs 2019: A team-by-team look

April 24, 2019 at 9:40 p.m.

The NFL draft will be held Thursday, Friday and Saturday in Nashville. Here’s a look at each team’s needs by division.AFC WestBroncos: Denver has its temporary answer at quarterback in...

UCLA tight end Caleb Wilson runs a drill during the NFL football scouting combine, Saturday, March 2, 2019, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings)

USC and UCLA prospects could be byed in NFL draft’s first two rounds for first time since 1965

April 23, 2019 at 10:28 p.m.

Reporting from NASHVILLE — For USC and UCLA, the first NFL draft in Music City could make them feel like they’re the subject of a forlorn country song.Lonely, unwanted and without a...

A general view of a screen showing UCLA quarterback Josh Rosen selected by the Arizona Cardinals with the 10th during the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 26, 2018, in Arlington, Tx.

NFL mock draft 2019 results: 32 reporters make their first-round picks

April 22, 2019 at 3:30 p.m.

With the NFL draft less than a week away, reporters who cover their teams on a daily basis take a crack at predicting how the first round will unfold in...

FILE - In this Oct. 6, 2018, file photo, Oklahoma quarterback Kyler Murray (1) throws a against Texas during the first half of an NCAA college football game at the Cotton Bowl, in Dallas. Murray is a possible pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. (AP Photo/Cooper Neill, File)

Kyler Murray and Josh Rosen at the center of Cardinals’ draft mystery

April 21, 2019 at 11:13 p.m.

Kyler Murray wanted to clear up any confusion.Instead, he heightened the intrigue.Two months ago, the two-sport star from the University of Oklahoma officially chose football over baseball. Even though he...

FILE - In this Feb. 20, 2019, file photo, the new Tottenham Hotspur stadium in north London is viewed. The NFC champion Los Angeles Rams will host Cincinnati in London for one of five international games on the 2019 schedule.The Rams and Bengals will face off at Wembley Stadium on Oct. 27. Earlier in October, the league will play two games at Tottenham Hotspur's new stadium in London. The Raiders will host the Bears on Oct. 6, and the Buccaneers will be the home team against the Panthers on Oct. 13. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham, File)

NFL releases 2019 schedule after 10 weeks of computing the matchups

April 18, 2019 at 12:42 a.m.

It was about 15 years ago that NFL executive Val Pinchbeck cobbled together the NFL schedule, mostly by hand. He and his team used a couple of computers to crunch...

Tiger Woods acknowledges the gallery after he birdied 7 during the final round of the Masters on Sunday, April 14, 2019, in Augusta, Ga. (Curtis Compton/Atlanta Journal-Constitution/TNS) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, TCN - OUTS **

There’s something special about the Masters – even for a veteran reporter

April 15, 2019 at 4:26 p.m.

There’s a saying that sports writing kills the fan in you, and, sadly, that’s often true. In more than 30 years in the business, I’ve witnessed more cool and iconic...

The Masters’ cellphone ban is a tradition unlike any other: ‘Wonderful, isn’t it?’

April 11, 2019 at 12:44 p.m.

Reporting from Augusta, Ga. — At any other golf tournament, Tiger Woods doesn’t see faces when he’s standing on a tee box or walking down a fairway. He sees a wall of...

AUGUSTA, GEORGIA - APRIL 10: Devon Bling of the United States plays a shot during a practice round prior to the Masters at Augusta National Golf Club on April 10, 2019 in Augusta, Georgia. (Photo by David Cannon/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **

UCLA’s Devon Bling sinks ace in Masters par-three tournament; Matt Wallace wins it

April 10, 2019 at 11:17 p.m.

Reporting from augusta, ga. — Devon Bling knew the statistic — no one has won the par-three tournament at Augusta National and the Masters in the same year — but the UCLA...

FILE - In this Jan. 20, 2019, file photo, Los Angeles Rams' Nickell Robey-Coleman breaks up a intended for New Orleans Saints' Tommylee Lewis during the second half of the NFL football NFC championship game in New Orleans. The NFL?s competition committee discussed the league?s replay system during its annual meeting in Indianapolis but reached no consensus on possible changes. And it may not recommend any major alterations. Officiating and the use of replays have been under scrutiny since a missed interference call and helmet-first hit in the final two minutes of the NFC championship game helped the Los Angeles Rams force overtime and eventually reach the Super Bowl. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert, File)

NFL makes -interference calls (and noncalls) reviewable

March 27, 2019 at 9:16 p.m.

Reporting from phoenix — The NFL took a big step forward with instant replay Tuesday, making interference reviewable even on plays in which a flag is not thrown.The rule change, in...

FILE - In this Sept. 9, 2018, file photo, Chicago Bears' Khalil Mack intercepts a and returns it for a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, in Green Bay, Wis. The Chicago Bears have a chance to tighten their grip on the NFC North lead and show just how far they have come when they host the defending division champion Vikings in primetime showdown for first place on Sunday. (AP Photo/Jeffrey Phelps, File)

Packers at Bears will open 2019 NFL season instead of Super Bowl champion

March 26, 2019 at 2:21 a.m.

Reporting from phoenix — The first game goes to the Second City.The NFL will open its 100th season in September with the league’s oldest rivalry, Green Bay at Chicago, a departure from...

Owners to consider a variety of rules changes at NFL meetings this week

March 24, 2019 at 5:18 p.m.

Reporting from Phoenix — NFL owners will look this week at expanding instant replay to include some penalties, but not at non-calls — the situation that caused such a stir last season...

Seattle Seahawks free safety Earl Thomas stands on the field during warmups before an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Sept. 23, 2018, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)

Earl Thomas and Ndamukong Suh among NFL’s free agency mysteries

March 13, 2019 at 2:02 p.m.

The g period for NFL free agency begins at 1 p.m. PDT on Wednesday, but that’s almost ceremonial now. Already, teams have perused the aisles — in some cases filling...

Oklahoma quarterback Kyler Murray runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, March 2, 2019. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)

NFL mock draft: Look for Raiders to move up to No. 1 to select QB Kyler Murray

March 4, 2019 at 11:00 a.m.

Ready, set … trade.That’s how The Times’ first NFL mock draft of 2019 begins, with the Oakland Raiders moving up three spots to take a quarterback with the opening pick....

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 02: Quarterback Dwayne Haskins of Ohio State works out during day three of the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on March 2, 2019 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **

2019 NFL draft combine: Examining the top quarterback prospects

March 2, 2019 at 8:19 p.m.

Reporting from indianapolis — Greg Cosell, executive producer and analyst for “NFL Matchup,” spends much of his life breaking down game video and evaluating college football players. He's widely respected in league...

FILE - In this Dec. 1, 2018, file photo, Oklahoma quarterback Kyler Murray (1) celebrates on the sidelines after throwing a touchdown against Oklahoma during the second half of the Big 12 Conference championship NCAA college football game, in Arlington, Texas. A record number of college football players are bying remaining years of eligibility to enter the NFL draft, including Heisman Trophy winner Kyler Murray. (AP Photo/Jeffrey McWhorter, File)

In short order, Kyler Murray could be the quarterback prize of the NFL draft

March 2, 2019 at 6:44 p.m.

Reporting from indianapolis — The stage has never been too big for Kyler Murray.But an NFL jersey might be — or at least that’s been the talk swirling around the Oklahoma quarterback,...

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA, SUNDAY, JANUARY 20, 2019 - Rams cornerback Nickell Robey-Coleman seems to deliver an early hit to Saints rexeiver Tommylee Lewis late in the fourth quarter, thwarting a potential game-winning drive in the NFC Championship at the Superdome. (Robert Gauthier/Los Angeles Times)

NFL considers adding ‘sky judge’ to accurately call games

March 2, 2019 at 1:57 a.m.

Reporting from indianapolis — The more eyes, the better.That’s what some NFL coaches feel about adding an eighth official to crews, a so-called “sky judge” who acts as a video official from...

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - FEBRUARY 28: Offensive lineman Kaleb McGary of Washington speaks to the media during day one of interviews at the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 28, 2019 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **

NFL combine notes: Washington prospect Kaleb McGary has tackled a lot of adversity

March 1, 2019 at 12:57 a.m.

Reporting from indianapolis — To hear Kaleb McGary tell it, his life is a country song.The 6-foot-8 offensive tackle from the University of Washington has had more than his share of heartache...

Arizona Cardinals head coach Kliff Kingsbury speaks during a press conference at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Wednesday, Feb. 27, 2019. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)

Coach Kliff Kingsbury aims to fix Arizona Cardinals after quick exit from USC

February 28, 2019 at 2:27 a.m.

Reporting from INDIANAPOLIS — The long road has unfurled before Kliff Kingsbury, the challenge of guiding the Arizona Cardinals back to relevance. A quick glance in his rear-view mirror, though, and it’s...

COLUMBUS, OH - SEPTEMBER 1: Nick Bosa #97 of the Ohio State Buckeyes celebrates after recovering a fumble in the end zone for a touchdown in the second quarter against the Oregon State Beavers at Ohio Stadium on September 1, 2018 in Columbus, Ohio. (Photo by Jamie Sabau/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **

NFL combine: These defensive linemen are ones to watch and likely stars of NFL draft

February 26, 2019 at 1:30 a.m.

Stifling defense. Underwhelming offense.That’s what we saw in the New England Patriots’ victory over the Rams this month — the lowest-scoring Super Bowl in history — and it’s a general...

Fans watch from a general view at Oakland Alameda County Coliseum during the second half of an NFL football game between the Oakland Raiders and the Denver Broncos in Oakland, Calif., Monday, Dec. 24, 2018. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)

Raiders reportedly reach agreement to play at Oakland Coliseum again next season

February 25, 2019 at 10:30 p.m.

It looks like the Raiders are heading back to Oakland for one more year.The Raiders and the Coliseum Authority have reached an agreement for the team to stay in Oakland...

FILE - In this Oct. 2, 2016 file photo, San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick, left, and safety Eric Reid kneel during the national anthem before an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, in Santa Clara, Calif. Colin Kaepernick and Eric Reid have reached settlements on their collusion lawsuits against the NFL, the league said Friday, Feb. 19, 2019.(AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez, File)

Colin Kaepernick and Eric Reid resolve their collusion cases against NFL

March 19, 2019 at 5:18 p.m.

The NFL has reached an agreement with players Colin Kaepernick and Eric Reid to resolve their collusion grievances, the sides announced Friday. of the deal were not disclosed.“For the...

FILE - In this Dec. 8, 2018, file photo, Oklahoma quarterback Kyler Murray holds the Hesiman Trophy after winning the award in New York. Murray's locker remained empty on Monday, Feb. 11, 2019, in the spring training clubhouse of the Oakland Athletics, who say they are uncertain when or if the Heisman Trophy winner will report to the baseball team he signed with last summer. Billy Beane, Oakland?s executive vice president of baseball operation, said talks are continuing with Murray, who may drop baseball to pursue an NFL career. (AP Photo/Craig Ruttle, File)

Kyler Murray chooses football days before he was to report to A’s spring training

March 15, 2019 at 7:47 p.m.

Kyler Murray is giving baseball the Heisman stiff arm.The two-sport Oklahoma Sooners star tweeted Monday that he is “fully committing my life and time to becoming an NFL quarterback,” four...

FILE-In this Sunday, Jan. 20, 2019 file photo, New Orleans Saints wide receiver Tommylee Lewis (11) works for a catch against Los Angeles Rams defensive back Nickell Robey-Coleman (23) during the second half the NFL football NFC championship game, in New Orleans. The Rams won 26-23. New Orleans Saints fans have found some pretty creative ways to express their displeasure over the infamous ?no call? during last weekend?s Saints-Rams championship game. But their newest tactic may make the loudest statement - a Super Bowl boycott. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert, File)

Super Bowl 2019 is history. What’s next for the NFL?

March 15, 2019 at 7:47 p.m.

Reporting from Atlanta — The NFL closed the book on the 2018 season Monday with its annual morning-after news conference, this year introducing New England receiver Julian Edelman as the newest Super...

<p>Patriots quarterback Tom Brady celebrates a touchdown by Sony Michel against the Rams inthe 4th quarter in Super Bowl LIII at Mercedes Benz Satdium in Atlanta Sunday.</p>

Super Bowl 2019: Tom Brady makes history and key plays for his sixth title, even on off night

February 4, 2019 at 7:47 a.m.

Reporting from atlanta — Tom Brady was untouchable.The Rams struggled to get close to him. And so did Kevin Simkins, the burly NFL Films cameraman who has shot all six of the...

LOS ANGELES, CA - JANUARY 12: Los Angeles Rams owner Stan Kroenke looks on ahead of the NFC Divisional Round playoff game against the Dallas Cowboys at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on January 12, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **

Rams owner Stan Kroenke brought the NFL back to L.A.; maybe a Super Bowl title is next

February 1, 2019 at 10:22 p.m.

Reporting from Atlanta — Too nervous to sit and watch, Stan Kroenke paced the back of the darkened visiting owner’s suite at the Superdome in New Orleans as his Rams lined up...

Jim Nantz and Tony Romo on May 17, 2017 at Carnegie Hall as CBS announces its fall schedule. (Jeffrey R. Staab/CBS via Getty Images/TNS)

**FOR USE WITH THIS STORY ONLY** ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, TCN - OUTS **

Who knew Tony Romo would become ‘Romostradamus’? His Super Bowl broadcast partner Jim Nantz

February 2, 2019 at 6:02 p.m.

Reporting from Atlanta — They are both highly skilled play-callers, meticulous about their craft and painstakingly prepared for the NFL’s biggest stage.There’s the seasoned veteran at the top of his game, who...

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA NOVEMBER 11, 2018-Rams receiver Cooper Kupp carries the American flag before a game against the Seahawks at the Coliseum Sunday. (Wally Skalij/Los Angeles Times)

Rams’ Cooper Kupp explains his silence since season-ending knee injury

February 1, 2019 at 3:37 p.m.

Reporting from atlanta — Cooper Kupp has stayed under the radar this week. The injured Rams receiver has kept a prudent distance from the spotlight, choosing not to wear team gear and...

Chicago Bears' Walter Payton runs with the ball Sunday Jan. 27, 1986 during Super Bowl XX in New Orleans. The Bears defeated the New England Patriots 46-10 to win Super Bowl XX. (AP Photo/Red McLendon) ORG XMIT: APHS200

How Walter Payton’s Super Bowl ring ended up in a college kid’s couch

January 31, 2019 at 11:21 p.m.

They have been lost and found, pilfered and pawned, paraded around bars and locked away in wall safes.A Super Bowl ring is the most coveted prize in the nation’s most...

Mandatory Credit: Photo by LARRY W SMITH/EPA-EFE/REX (10077212p)
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell speaks to the media during his press conference in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, 30 January 2019. The AFC Champion New England Patriots and the NFC Champion Los Angeles Rams will face off in Super Bowl LIII at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on 03 February.
Super Bowl LIII, Atlanta, USA - 30 Jan 2019 ** Usable by LA, CT and MoD ONLY **

Roger Goodell opens door to instant replay changes after itting refs erred on non-call

January 31, 2019 at 12:15 a.m.

The echo of the non-call in New Orleans continues to reverberate through football.In his annual state of the league address Wednesday, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell discussed the missed -interference call...

<p>Actor Dallas Dupree Young dances with the Rams cheerleaders during media day.</p>

Rams coach Sean McVay says you can feel the magnitude of Super Bowl event

January 29, 2019 at 5:50 a.m.

Reporting from atlanta — He was barely a quarter of the way through a one-hour media session on the opening night of Super Bowl week, and Rams quarterback Jared Goff was holding...

HAWTHORNE, CA - MAY 17: Football player Todd Gurley II s the fun at the Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 Community Reveal Event in Hawthorne, CA on May 17, 2018. (Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Activision)

Video games aren’t just a guilty pleasure for NFL players, they’re big business

January 27, 2019 at 4:50 a.m.

Dalton Schultz learned to design video games at Stanford. He has an old YouTube channel that streams highlights of him shooting his way through “Call of Duty: Black Ops II,”...

Super Bowl LIII: Rams and Patriots really aren’t all that different

January 22, 2019 at 4:34 a.m.

The Los Angeles Rams and New England Patriots. They’re in opposite corners of the country, and in some ways are as different as the regions they represent.For the next two...

<p>Rams safety John Johnson intercepts the ball in overtime agianst the New Orleans Saints in the NFC Championship at the Superdome in New Orleans Sunday.</p>

John Johnson’s interception in overtime revs up Rams’ NFC championship victory

January 21, 2019 at 4:27 a.m.

Reporting from New Orleans — John Johnson couldn’t resist. After the Rams safety made a huge interception in overtime, he broke into a taunting dance.He hopped on one foot, grabbed invisible handlebars...

<p>Rams tight-end Gerald Everett picks up big yards on a reetion against the New Orleans Saints in the fourth quarter in the NFC Championship at the Superdome in New Orleans Sunday</p>

Jared Goff and Rams end up making the biggest noise in New Orleans

January 21, 2019 at 4:09 p.m.

Reporting from new orleans — The biggest game of Jared Goff’s life began with a scramble.Before going on the field for his first series, in the deafening cacophony of the Superdome, the...

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA NOVEMBER 19, 2018-Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes gets a off in front of Rams John Franklin-Myers in the 2nd quarter at the Coliseum Monday. (Wally Skalij/Los Angeles Times)

Super Bowl forecast: Will Saints face Patrick Mahomes, the QB they wanted to draft?

January 18, 2019 at 7:08 a.m.

Locals only.That’s basically the story of the NFL’s conference championship games in recent years. History is squarely on the side of the home teams.Visitors — as the Rams and New...

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - JANUARY 13: Michael Thomas #13 and Drew Brees #9 of the New Orleans Saints celebrate their third quarter touchdown against the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC Divisional Playoff Game at Mercedes Benz Superdome on January 13, 2019 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **

Drew Brees calls on Michael Thomas to make the big catches for Saints

January 16, 2019 at 2:29 a.m.

Reporting from new orleans — Typical horror movie. The call was coming from inside the house.The guy doing the dialing was New Orleans Saints receiver Michael Thomas, who had just slashed the...

LOS ANGELES, CA. JANUARY 12, 2018-Rams head coach Sean McVay celebrates a touchdwon by running back Todd gurley against the Cowboys in a playoff game at the Coliseum Saturday. (Wally Skalij/Los Angeles Times)

NFL’s conference championship games have it all: Top seeds, top players, top coaches

January 15, 2019 at 1:39 a.m.

Reporting from NEW ORLEANS — There’s a written-in-the-stars feel to this weekend’s NFL playoff games, a synchronicity that goes beyond the fact that both conference championship games are rematches from earlier this...

Saints eliminate champion Eagles, host Rams in NFC championship game

January 14, 2019 at 4:24 a.m.

Reporting from new orleans — Talk about instant replay.In posting a 20-14 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, the New Orleans Saints secured a Superdome rematch next weekend with the Rams....

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - JANUARY 06: Head coach Doug Pederson talks to Nick Foles #9 of the Philadelphia Eagles against the Chicago Bears in the fourth quarter of the NFC Wild Card Playoff game at Soldier Field on January 06, 2019 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **

Eagles vs. Saints: What to expect when the teams meet in NFC divisional playoff game

January 13, 2019 at 1:00 p.m.

Logic says the New Orleans Saints should win this NFC divisional playoff matchup handily.They already routed Philadelphia this season 48-7. The game is in the Superdome, among the NFL’s most...

<p>Lakers star LeBron James, left, and Rams owner Stan Kroenke greet each other before the game against the Cowboys.</p>

Rams knock the ‘D’ out of Dallas with their offensive line

January 13, 2019 at 7:35 a.m.

What caused the D.C. shutdown?If D.C. stood for the Dallas Cowboys on Saturday night, the culprit was the wall.An impenetrable moving barrier of Rams blockers shoved aside the vaunted Cowboys...

KANSAS CITY, MO - OCTOBER 21: Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs rushes away from Sam Hubbard #94 of the Cincinnati Bengals after protection broke down during the first half of the game at Arrowhead Stadium on October 21, 2018 in Kansas City, Kansas. (Photo by Peter Aiken/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **

Colts vs. Chiefs: A preview of what to expect in their AFC divisional playoff game

January 12, 2019 at 12:00 p.m.

This game is a showdown of superstar quarterbacks, one rising and the other resurrected.On one side is the Kansas City Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes, the NFL’s leading MVP candidate, who set...

Dallas Cowboys' Antwaun Woods, left, celebrates his interception during the first half of an NFL football game against the New York Giants, Sunday, Dec. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)

Former USC player Antwaun Woods sheds weight and gains important role with Cowboys

January 12, 2019 at 2:27 a.m.

Reporting from frisco, texas — Antwaun Woods was little more than a training-camp body for the Dallas Cowboys, and a rotund one at that. One of his coaches warned the 6-foot-1, 312-pound...

Indianapolis Colts head coach Frank Reich talks with quarterback Andrew Luck (12) during practice at the NFL football team's facility, Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2019, in Indianapolis. The Colts will play Kansas City in a AFC divisional round game on Saturday. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings)

Frank Reich looks far from a backup plan as coach leads Colts into AFC divisional playoffs

March 15, 2019 at 7:46 p.m.

Frank Reich wasn’t their first choice. The Indianapolis Colts didn’t even have him on their original list of potential coaching hires. They only turned to him in desperation once Josh...

Rams-Cowboys matchup is like a dream for Jerry Jones

January 8, 2019 at 7:34 a.m.

Reporting from CHICAGO — The two NFL owners who had the biggest hand in the league’s return to Los Angeles were the Rams’ Stan Kroenke and the Dallas Cowboys’ Jerry Jones.Saturday, their...

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has some super surprises for deserving fans in Chicago

January 7, 2019 at 4:31 a.m.

Reporting from Chicago — NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell made the day of some Chicago Bears and Baltimore Ravens fans Sunday — even though their teams did not.Before attending the Bears’ playoff game...

Chicago Bears kicker Cody Parkey (1) reacts after missing a field goal in the closing minute during the second half of an NFL wild-card playoff football game against the Philadelphia Eagles Sunday, Jan. 6, 2019, in Chicago. The Eagles won 16-15. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

Missed field goal on final play lifts Philadelphia Eagles past Chicago Bears in NFL playoffs

January 7, 2019 at 3:40 a.m.

Reporting from chicago — The uprights at Soldier Field are still standing. The Chicago Bears are not.The Bears saw their Super Bowl hopes float into the frigid night Sunday as kicker Cody...

FILE - In this Sunday, Sept. 9, 2018, file photo, Chicago Bears' Khalil Mack (52) intercepts a and returns it for a touchdown as Green Bay Packers' Corey Linsley (63) gives chase during the first half of an NFL football game in Green Bay, Wis. On Sunday, Dec. 23, the Bears face the San Francisco 49ers, another team who wanted Mack when he was on the trading block from Oakland. (AP Photo/Jeffrey Phelps, File)

NFC playoff preview: Bears are back in the hunt

January 6, 2019 at 1:00 p.m.

The Chicago Bears are back.Back in the playoffs for the first time since 2010. Back in the Super Bowl hunt with a team that has won nine of its last...

CARSON, CA, SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2018 - Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers barks at umpire Ramon George late in the game at StubHub Center. (Robert Gauthier/Los Angeles Times)

AFC playoff preview: Stage is set for a Philip Rivers rebound game vs. Ravens

January 6, 2019 at 12:30 p.m.

Once more. With feeling.The Chargers will get a second chance Sunday against the Baltimore Ravens, a team that embarrassed them a few weeks ago in Carson.Baltimore won that Dec. 22...

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) flies for the goal line and makes a first down against Seattle Seahawks defensive end Frank Clark (55) during the second half of the NFC wild-card NFL football game in Arlington, Texas, Saturday, Jan. 5, 2019. (AP Photo/Ron Jenkins)

Cowboys hold off Seahawks 24-22 in NFC wild-card game

January 6, 2019 at 3:16 p.m.

Reporting from arlington, texas — Call it the Cowboys cartwheel.In one glorious, head-over-heels moment, Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott launched his team into the second round of the NFL playoffs for the...

Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott (21) scores on a touchdown from quarterback Dak Prescott (4) as Philadelphia Eagles free safety Corey Graham (24) tries to stop him during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 11, 2018, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)

Cowboys vs. Seahawks: How Dallas and Seattle match up in an NFC wild-card game

January 5, 2019 at 1:30 p.m.

If the Dallas Cowboys or Seattle Seahawks are going to take flight in the NFL playoffs, they’re going to do it on the ground.Both franchises, who meet in Dallas on...

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck drops to during the first half of an NFL football preseason game against the Seattle Seahawks, Thursday, Aug. 9, 2018, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Stephen Brashear)

Texans vs. Colts: How Houston and Indianapolis match up in an AFC wild-card game

January 5, 2019 at 1:00 p.m.

Not only did their quarterbacks make remarkable comebacks, but the Indianapolis Colts and Houston Texans did too.The AFC South rivals, who will square off in a first-round game in Houston...

CARSON, CA, SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2018 - Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers after leading the offense on a scoring drive against the Arizona Cardinals at StubHub Center.(Robert Gauthier/Los Angeles Times)

Past champs say NFL’s four wild-card teams have what it takes for a super postseason

January 3, 2019 at 11:39 p.m.

They stand at the base of Mt. Lombardi, staring up at the twisting, narrow paths and treacherous switchbacks. They are four NFL teams with big hopes and even bigger challenges.The...

Texas Tech football head coach Kliff Kingsbury speaks during NCAA college football Big 12 media days in Frisco, Texas, Monday, July 16, 2018. (AP Photo/Cooper Neill)

New USC offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury will interview for multiple NFL coaching jobs

January 3, 2019 at 2:15 a.m.

New USC offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury will interview for multiple NFL head coaching jobs in the coming days, creating a nervous new year for Trojans head coach Clay Helton and...

‘Help Wanted’ is sign of the times in NFL

January 1, 2019 at 6:25 p.m.

At least a quarter of the NFL’s 32 teams are changing head coaches, and that should startle no one.Black Monday is such a predictable event, the league should create a...

<p>Melvin Gordon and Philip Rivers celebrate on the sideline after Gordon scored on a 28-yard run in the first half at StubHub Center.</p>

New guys jump into NFL playoff mix

December 31, 2018 at 8:16 a.m.

Reporting from Denver — With every season, churn, churn, churn …The NFL prides itself on competitive balance among its 32 teams, and it’s hard to argue against that this season.Of the eight...

LOS ANGELES, CA - JANUARY 6, 2018:Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay talks with Los Angeles Rams quarterback Jared Goff (16) in the first half of the first round of the NFL playoffs at the Memorial Coliseum on January 6, 2018 in Los Angeles, California.(Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times)

Ask Farmer: Who are all the people on an NFL sideline?

December 30, 2018 at 12:30 p.m.

Have a question about the NFL? Ask Times NFL writer Sam Farmer, and he will answer as many as he can online and in the Sunday editions of the newspaper...

Sam Farmer’s NFL Week 17 picks

March 15, 2019 at 7:46 p.m.

The Times’ NFL writer, Sam Farmer, examines this week’s matchups. Lines according to Pregame.com (O/U = over/under). Last week’s record 12-4 (.750); season 158-80-2 (.664). Using point spreads with the...

CLEVELAND, OH - DECEMBER 23: Baker Mayfield #6 of the Cleveland Browns reacts after a 26-18 win over the Cincinnati Bengals at FirstEnergy Stadium on December 23, 2018 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) ** OUTS - ELSENT, FPG, CM - OUTS * NM, PH, VA if sourced by CT, LA or MoD **

NFL’s final-week playoff scenarios will make for some interesting ‘fans’

December 25, 2018 at 4:13 a.m.

Imagine a world where the Pittsburgh Steelers pull for the Cleveland Browns.Or the Chargers smear on the silver-and-black face paint in solidarity with the Oakland Raiders.A place where the Rams...

<p>Rams quarterback Jared Goff throws a against the Cardinals.</p>

Rams showed in win over Arizona they’re capable of making a run at the Super Bowl

December 24, 2018 at 3:39 p.m.

Reporting from glendale, ariz. — They needed to save face.Instead, the Rams did more Sunday. They unveiled a facelift.With their best offensive player, Todd Gurley, watching in sweatpants, and a victory absolutely...

<p>Ravens head coach John Harbaugh celebrates with fans after leading Baltimore to a 22-10 win over the Chargers at StubHub Center.</p>

Chargers burned by proven weapon that wins game in December

December 23, 2018 at 6:40 a.m.

Rookie quarterback, rookie tight end with the go-ahead touchdown catch, new coordinator…And same old Baltimore Ravens defense.The Ravens dropped the Chargers with a resounding thud Saturday night, toppling the NFL’s...

<p>Quarterback Jared Goff watches as the Rams fail to convert on a fake punt against the Eagles.</p>

Focused on the now, Nick Foles does his job to deliver Eagles a win over Rams

December 17, 2018 at 7:48 a.m.

Nick Foles connected with his Philadelphia receivers on the field Sunday night, but he wasn’t interested in connecting the dots off it.Yes, the Coliseum is where the Eagles, with Foles...

<p>Chargers receiver Travis Benjamin pulls down a over Chiefs cornerback Kendall Fuller for 26 yards to the 12-yard line on a fourth down play to keep the game winning drive alive.</p>

Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers stays cool under fire to find redemption for himself and team

December 14, 2018 at 7:03 p.m.

Reporting from kansas city, mo. — Signed, sealed, delivered.Thursday night’s victory over Kansas City was a signature win by Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers, who had waited so long for redemption in this...

FILE - In this Oct. 8, 2017, file photo, Kansas City Chiefs running back Kareem Hunt warms up for the team's NFL football game against the Houston Texans in Houston. A person with knowledge of the move tells The Associated Press that Hunt appears headed to the NFL's Commissioner Exempt List, sidelining him while the league investigates a video of Hunt striking a woman in February. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the team had not issued a formal statement Friday, Nov. 30, although one was expected for later in the evening. (AP Photo/Eric Christian Smith, File)

NFL defends its handling of Kareem Hunt case; Chargers, Rams will play internationally next season

December 12, 2018 at 11:38 p.m.

Reporting from irving, texas — The NFL on Wednesday defended its controversial handling of the Kareem Hunt investigation, even though incriminating surveillance video of the star running back — footage that surfaced...

<p>Ben Roehtlisberger and Philip Rivers meet up at the 50-yard line after a 33-30 win.</p>

It was Philip Rivers’ night as Chargers stun Steelers with second-half rally

December 3, 2018 at 8:19 a.m.

Reporting from pittsburgh — The Pittsburgh Steelers had planned to celebrate their storied past Sunday night. Instead, they made the wrong kind of history.While the Chargers made the most of their opportunity...

<p>Chargers receiver Mike Williams hauls in a second quarter touchdown over Arizona Cardinals cornerback Bené Benikere at StubHub Center.</p>

Chargers’ Philip Rivers sets NFL record for consecutive completions in a game during 45-10 win over Cardinals

November 26, 2018 at 4:09 a.m.

History didn’t stand a chance, not with the way Philip Rivers was throwing the ball.The Chargers quarterback played his way into the record books Sunday, completion by pinpoint completion. He...

Mandatory Credit: Photo by Al Seib/POOL/EPA-EFE/REX (9981056f)
Ventura County Sheriff's deputy Dan McLaughlin, right, holds hands with other deputies as everyone is asked to hold hands during a closing prayer during a memorial service for Ventura County Sheriff Sgt. Ron Helus at Calvary Community Church in Westlake Village, California, USA, 15 November 2018. Sgt. Helus was one of twelve victims of the Borderline Bar & Grill mass shooting in Thousand Oaks on 07 November.
Memorial service for Sgt. Ron Helus, Westlake Village, USA - 15 Nov 2018 ** Usable by LA, CT and MoD ONLY **

Rams to honor first responders and victims of wildfires and mass shooting at game Monday

November 19, 2018 at 2:00 p.m.

For their “Monday Night Football” game against the Kansas City Chiefs, the Rams have planned several tributes to honor first responders and people affected by the Borderline shooting and recent...

NFL moves Rams-Chiefs out of Mexico City over poor field conditions

November 13, 2018 at 5:33 p.m.

The marquee “Monday Night Football” game between the Rams and Kansas City Chiefs will be played in Los Angeles — not in Mexico City, as originally planned.Poor field conditions at...

A poster made by Chargers' Philip Rivers as a kid. Courtesy of the Rivers Family

No kidding, Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers made his NFL dreams come true

November 9, 2018 at 2:27 a.m.

Philip Rivers didn’t like mayonnaise or Brussels sprouts. He wanted a younger brother and good grades. And, like so many 10-year-olds across the country, he dreamed about suiting up for...

Los Angeles Rams quarterback Jared Goff scrambles against the Seattle Seahawks during the first half of an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Oct. 7, 2018, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Scott Eklund)

NFL review and preview: Facing Week 10, every team is feeling at least one loss

March 15, 2019 at 7:44 p.m.

Reporting from NEW ORLEANS — Now that the Rams have lost, there’s one indisputable truth about the NFL.Nobody’s perfect.Heading into Week 10, every team has at least one loss, and New Orleans...

NFL Review and Preview: Cleveland Browns soap opera takes a predictable turn

October 30, 2018 at 2:59 a.m.

The acrimonious union of Cleveland Browns coach Hue Jackson and offensive coordinator Todd Haley ended Monday in divorce.Anyone who watched “Hard Knocks” this summer could see where that bumpy marriage...

<p>Rams' Todd Gurley II (30) is tangled up with Green Bay Packers' Jaire Alexander at the end of a 23-yard first down run late in the 4th quarter on Sunday.</p>

Unbeaten Rams are a big hit as special teams help preserve a 29-27 win over Green Bay

October 29, 2018 at 5:31 a.m.

The Coliseum was a rollicking sea of green and gold Sunday, a Left Coast Lambeau, and Aaron Rodgers was getting the ball back with two minutes to play and the...

LOS ANGELES, CA, SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2018 -Chargers quarterbacks Geno Smith, left, and Philip Rivers watch Rams quarterback Jared Goff lead the team at the Coliseum. (Robert Gauthier/Los Angeles Times)

Chargers’ low ticket prices for new stadium say something about their footing in L.A.

October 19, 2018 at 2:51 a.m.

The Chargers rolled out their season-ticket plan for the Inglewood stadium this week, positioning themselves as the market’s family-friendly option, with ultra-affordable prices for the $3-billion palace that opens in...

<p>Denver Broncos wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders (10) reaches over the goal line to score against Los Angeles Rams free safety Lamarcus Joyner (20) and Los Angeles Rams cornerback Marcus Peters (22) in the second half at Broncos Stadium at Mile High on October 14, 2018 in Denver, Colorado.(Gina Ferazzi/Los AngelesTimes)</p>

Hall of Famer Marshall Faulk is impressed with Todd Gurley’s most valuable contributions to Rams offense

October 15, 2018 at 6:04 a.m.

Reporting from denver — Todd Gurley was a devastating force against Denver on Sunday, running for 208 yards.It was the first 200-yard rushing game for a Rams player since Marshall Faulk rolled...

Rams didn’t get 23-20 win over Broncos down cold, but room for improvement at 6-0 is impressive

October 15, 2018 at 6:10 a.m.

Reporting from denver — How far the Rams have come isn’t measured in yards or air miles.Finally, they’re good enough to be discerning about how they win.They ground out a 23-20 victory...

Cleveland Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield warms up before an NFL football game between the Cleveland Browns and the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Oct. 7, 2018, in Cleveland. (AP Photo/Ron Schwane)

Baker Mayfield has upstart Cleveland lit up in Browns

October 12, 2018 at 2:16 p.m.

The Cleveland Browns aren’t just turning around the ship, they’re raising the Titanic.The franchise that went 1-31 over the last two seasons is 2-2-1, improbably revived by No. 1 pick...

Four weeks into NFL season, top four rookie quarterbacks starting to make progress

October 5, 2018 at 12:59 a.m.

With four weeks in the books, the quarter pole of the NFL season, this is an opportune time to examine the four rookie quarterbacks who are starting.Each was selected in...

NFL review and preview: With other NFC West teams teetering, how will the Rams handle prosperity?

October 2, 2018 at 1:15 a.m.

The first quarter of the NFL season is in the books, the Rams are 4-0, and face another round of questions and tests:How will they handle prosperity?The Rams were a...

Mandatory Credit: Photo by MIKE NELSON/EPA-EFE/REX (9905540c)
Los Angeles Chargers kicker Caleb Sturgis kicks the game winning field goal late in the fourth quarter against the San Francisco 49ers at the Stubhub Center in Carson, California, USA, 30 September 2018. The Chargers won the game.
San Francisco 49ers at Los Angeles Chargers, Carson, USA - 30 Sep 2018 ** Usable by LA, CT and MoD ONLY **

Things went a little too right for Chargers kicker Caleb Sturgis against the 49ers

October 1, 2018 at 2:30 a.m.

Caleb Sturgis had an all-right Sunday, and that’s not good.The Chargers kicker was wide right on a pair of extra-point tries, and on a 54-yard field goal attempt in a...

Clay Matthews hopes to end unusual streak as defenders try to adapt to new rules for QB hits

September 29, 2018 at 10:39 p.m.

Clay Matthews has a strange streak going, one that he hopes to break Sunday.The Green Bay linebacker has been flagged for roughing the er in each of the Packers’ three...

<p>Rams defensive lineman Michael Brockers forces Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins into a fumble late in the 4th quarter. The Rams recovered to preserve the win.</p>

A lot to like about Jared Goff’s progression

September 28, 2018 at 6:00 a.m.

To borrow a line from roughed-up Minnesota quarterback Kirk Cousins, the Jared Goff-led Rams posed a question Thursday night to Los Angeles:You like that?These undefeated Rams, who two years ago...

According to two talent evaluators, the Rams have the clear advantage over the Chargers for now

September 22, 2018 at 9:31 p.m.

In a couple of years, they’ll share a stadium.For now, they’ll share the stage.The Rams and Chargers will play each other at the Coliseum on Sunday, meeting for the first...

WEST HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA SEPTEMBER 5, 2018-Nate Boyer, a former Green Beret who tried out as a long snapper for the Seattle Seahawks, is a liaison between the NFL and the Wounded Warrior Project, but ended up being a consultant to Colin Kaepernick as the former quarterback decided on how he would protest racial inequality. (Wally Skalij/Los Angeles TImes)

The ex-Green Beret who inspired Colin Kaepernick to kneel instead of sit during the anthem would like to clear a few things up

September 17, 2018 at 12:00 p.m.

The fact that it was Colin Kaepernick and the San Francisco 49ers only made the situation worse.Nate Boyer felt a connection with the quarterback. He even had an autographed football...

LOS ANGELES, CALIF. -- SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2018: Arizona Cardinals quarterback Josh Rosen (3) during a game played against the Los Angeles Rams at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in Los Angeles, Calif., on Sept. 16, 2018. (Gary Coronado / Los Angeles Times)

It’s time for the 0-2 Cardinals to try rookie Josh Rosen at quarterback

September 17, 2018 at 3:17 a.m.

It’s time to start Josh Rosen.The No. 10 pick from UCLA was the most game-ready quarterback in the 2018 draft, a guy who threw Sunday es on Saturdays, and the...

NFL Referee Alex Kemp (55) call a personal foul against the Indianapolis Colts during an NFL preseason football game in Indianapolis, Monday, Aug. 20, 2018. The Ravens defeated the Colts 20-19. (Jeff Haynes/AP Images for Panini)

Here are the new NFL rules and updates of existing ones for the 2018 season

September 4, 2018 at 12:00 p.m.

New year, new rules. Here’s what you need to know about the NFL’s new rules:What is a catch?The league has changed the standard for a catch for a forward ...

Oakland Raiders owner Mark Davis stands on the field before an NFL football preseason game against the Seattle Seahawks, Thursday, Aug. 30, 2018, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Stephen Brashear)

As Vegas waits, Raiders are betting Gruden can bring success back to Oakland

September 3, 2018 at 1:15 a.m.

By all indications, Oakland Raiders coach Jon Gruden has banned two words from his vocabulary.“Las” and “Vegas.”The reasons are pretty obvious. Gruden wants his players focused on the now, and...

Mandatory Credit: Photo by LARRY W SMITH/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock (9808663f)
Arizona Cardinals quarterback Sam Bradford (R) es the ball against the Dallas Cowboys in the first half of the NFL pre-season American football game between the Arizona Cardinals and Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, USA, 26 August 2018.
Arizona Cardinals at Dallas Cowboys, Arlington, USA - 26 Aug 2018 ** Usable by LA, CT and MoD ONLY **

NFC West preview: Bradford can sling with the best of them and will for Arizona – if he’s not hurt

August 31, 2018 at 4:15 p.m.

There’s a joke around the NFL that Arizona Cardinals quarterback Sam Bradford should change his name to “When Healthy, Sam Bradford,” because that caveat seems to precede any mention of...

Oakland Raiders ead coach Jon Gruden speaks to reporters after NFL football practice in Napa, Calif., Wednesday, Aug. 1, 2018. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)

‘Back in black’ with Raiders’ rock star coach, Jon Gruden

August 4, 2018 at 10:37 p.m.

Reporting from Napa, Calif. — Jeff Leonardo is the guy behind The Guy.He’s the right-hand man to Jon Gruden, essentially spending every waking moment with the $100-million coach of the Oakland Raiders,...

Xander Schauffele looks like golf’s next star after runner-up finish at British Open

July 23, 2018 at 2:41 a.m.

Reporting from CARNOUSTIE, Scotland — Xander Schauffele is moving closer to a major championship, and with head-spinning speed, but that provided little solace to him Sunday. Schauffele was dealing with the disappointment...

sco Molinari holds off Tiger Woods & Co. at British Open to become first Italian to win major

July 23, 2018 at 1:24 a.m.

Reporting from CARNOUSTIE, Scotland — sco Molinari was “the other guy,” a check-your-program placeholder, somebody to watch Sunday when the wall-to-wall spectators blocked a clear vantage of the superstar in his pairing,...

Xander Schauffele is playing his way out of the shadows

July 21, 2018 at 10:32 p.m.

Reporting from CARNOUSTIE, Scotland — Xander Schauffele’s young golf career is like a stung one-iron.Impressive distance. Way under the radar.Schauffele, who was born in La Jolla and attended San Diego State, heads...

Tiger Woods makes charge at British Open leaderboard, shooting sizzling 66

July 21, 2018 at 9:15 p.m.

Reporting from CARNOUSTIE, Scotland — Talk about backspin. Tiger Woods, with all the action of a well struck wedge, spun the golf world back years Saturday, playing his way up the leaderboard...

Novak Djokovic wins first Grand Slam in two years, quickly beating Anderson for Wimbledon title

July 15, 2018 at 9:32 p.m.

Reporting from wimbledon, england — After days of grueling, thrilling, relentless matches, with hold-your-breath serves and slap-your-forehead rallies, this championship took an anticlimactic turn.Wimbledon went out with a whimper.Yawn tennis.Novak Djokovic needed...

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