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As the No. 10 LSU Tigers (5-1, 2-1 SEC) head to Nashville to take on the No. 17 Vanderbilt Commodores (5-1, 3-1 SEC) this Saturday at FirstBank Stadium, the stage is set for what could be one of the most intriguing SEC battles of the 2025 season. Kickoff is slated for 12 p.m. ET, marking LSU's first early game of the year. Despite the Commodores entering as 2.5-point favorites according to betting odds, the Tigers have the talent and grit to pull off the upset and keep their playoff hopes alive.Vanderbilt has been the surprise story of the SEC this year, riding a wave of momentum after impressive wins over South Carolina, Georgia State, and Utah State, though they fell short against Alabama in a 30-14 loss. Led by quarterback Diego Pavia, the Commodores' offense has been explosive, averaging over 45 points in their non-conference victories. Their defense, meanwhile, has stepped up, forcing turnovers and limiting big plays. This resurgence has oddsmakers giving them the edge at home, with the over/under hovering around 48.5 points.<figure id="figure-aukdmmn5gmgux38rv"><img id="aukdmmn5gmgux38rv" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/1fo1kSCrZPOwkshj7GFlEye0lepe0mTeCmXg3D9GL9lNya3eUtJ1YdCiSkJYHbjV.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/1fo1kSCrZPOwkshj7GFlEye0lepe0mTeCmXg3D9GL9lNya3eUtJ1YdCiSkJYHbjV.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>But don't count out LSU just yet. The Tigers have bounced back from an early-season stumble, notching wins over Florida (20-10), Southeastern Louisiana (56-10), and Louisiana Tech (23-7), among others. However, their offense has shown inconsistencies, particularly in play-calling and decision-making that have stalled drives at critical moments. The offensive line has been a glaring weak spot, struggling against three-man fronts and allowing too much pressure on the quarterback—resulting in sacks, hits, and hurried throws on 61 dropbacks through the first five games.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-64ny0lqecymgux3kkn"><img id="64ny0lqecymgux3kkn" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/368DCxUkQbx3nvP4GJgSxvyp6Ke3becrCj19TiMbI1hFZY1SJ04EfpdaQd6HFEi9.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure> Garrett Nussmeier will need to elevate his game to lead LSU to victory. At the heart of LSU's potential turnaround is senior quarterback Garrett Nussmeier. Through six games, Nussmeier has thrown for 1,413 yards, nine touchdowns, and five interceptions, with a quarterback rating that reflects both his arm talent and areas for growth. While his numbers are solid, the offense as a whole has lacked rhythm, often failing to capitalize on red-zone opportunities and struggling with protection issues. Recent signs are encouraging, though—Nussmeier's health has improved, leading to a more confident unit in their last outing. For LSU to win, Nussmeier must step up, make quicker decisions under pressure, and get the offense in line. That means better synchronization with receivers like Kyren Lacy and CJ Daniels, exploiting Vanderbilt's secondary, and avoiding the costly turnovers that have plagued the Tigers at times.Defensively, LSU has the tools to contain Vanderbilt's attack. The Tigers' front seven, anchored by Harold Perkins and Whit Weeks, should disrupt Pavia's rhythm and limit the Commodores' ground game. If LSU can force a couple of turnovers—something Vanderbilt has been prone to in tighter contests—the momentum could swing quickly.Prediction: While Vanderbilt is the trendy pick as home favorites, LSU's superior talent and experience in big games will shine through. Expect Nussmeier to rise to the occasion, throwing for over 300 yards and three scores as the Tigers grind out a hard-fought 27-24 victory. This win keeps LSU in the SEC title hunt and reminds the conference why Death Valley's finest shouldn't be underestimated.

LSU Tigers Set to Upset Favored Vanderbilt Commodores in Nashville Showdown

October 15, 2025 – Tel Aviv, IsraelIn a moment that brought tears of joy and relief to a nation scarred by two years of unrelenting conflict, the final 20 living Israeli hostages abducted by Hamas on October 7, 2023, were released on October 13, 2025, as part of a U.S.-brokered ceasefire deal. Handed over to Red Cross officials in Gaza and transported across the border, these men—all survivors of the deadliest attack in Israel's history—reunited with families amid scenes of national celebration. Crowds gathered in Tel Aviv's Hostages Square, waving flags and chanting names, as helicopters ferried the pale, frail but resilient figures to hospitals for medical evaluations.<figure id="figure-gtukzcmaomgs4syq9"><img id="gtukzcmaomgs4syq9" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/10tHteYyIy18VIzHKEEKaDbp0JZ80h8yPKjVj9wNHtabvAtRIStifmdkFlB51zsw.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/10tHteYyIy18VIzHKEEKaDbp0JZ80h8yPKjVj9wNHtabvAtRIStifmdkFlB51zsw.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>The release marks the culmination of grueling negotiations led by U.S. President Donald Trump, who hailed it as a "historic dawn" during a summit in Egypt's Sharm El-Sheikh. In exchange, Israel freed nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and detainees, including those held without charge under "unlawful combatant" designations. Yet, as the euphoria fades, the hostages' emerging testimonies paint a stark picture of their ordeal: a world of darkness, deprivation, and psychological torment deep beneath Gaza's war-torn surface. While all 20 walked out on their own legs—smiling weakly for cameras—their stories reveal the human cost of Hamas's strategy, where captives were bargaining chips in a brutal game.The Long Shadow of October 7 The nightmare began on a crisp autumn morning in 2023, when Hamas militants stormed southern Israel, killing about 1,200 people and abducting 251 hostages from kibbutzim, military bases, and the Nova music festival. Among the released were civilians like twins Gali and Ziv Berman, 28, kidnapped from their home in Kibbutz Kfar Aza, and IDF soldiers such as Matan Angrest, 22, dragged from his tank near Nahal Oz. Others, like Avinatan Or, 32, were separated from loved ones at the festival—Noa Argamani, his girlfriend, famously rescued in a daring IDF raid last year, awaited his return with bated breath.By October 2025, 168 hostages had been returned alive through prior ceasefires, rescues, and unilateral releases, per Israeli officials. The remaining 20 endured 738 days in captivity, held in underground tunnels that former detainees describe as "living graves." Hamas has yet to return the bodies of 28 deceased hostages, despite ceasefire terms mandating their handover—a delay that has reignited anguish for families like that of Omri Miran, 48, whose wife and two young daughters watched his emotional homecoming from afar.<figure id="figure-nl6mc90vwmgs4x13e"><img id="nl6mc90vwmgs4x13e" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/19ZAZJVZnD7rf13J9qnokSWQMHTMA7oTYxJXQR1WHEmLKL6kYMc0Ns09F3Nf1QhI.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>A Descent into Darkness: Conditions of Captivity Medical teams at facilities like Sheba Medical Center and Beilinson Hospital report that the released hostages are in stable but weakened condition. Many arrived emaciated, with untreated injuries, skin ailments, and signs of malnutrition from chronic food and water shortages. "They were pale, with sunken eyes, but their spirits—those unbreakable Israeli spirits—shone through," said Dr. Roni Peleg, who oversaw initial assessments.Hostage accounts, shared in initial interviews with Israeli media like Channel 12 and Kan Bet, detail a regime of isolation and scarcity. Held in small, windowless cells or chained in tunnels, captives received meager rations—often rice, beans, and brackish water—supplemented sporadically with dates or canned goods. Medical care was rudimentary at best; chronic conditions like diabetes went unmanaged, and wounds from the initial abduction festered without antibiotics.Evyatar David, 26, and his childhood friend Guy Gilboa-Dalal, 24—abducted together from the Nova festival—described being separated for months in "stifling heat and dripping dampness." David, speaking from his hospital bed, recounted digging mock graves under guard orders for Hamas propaganda videos, a psychological ploy to break their will. "They wanted us to feel like we were already dead," he said, his voice steady but eyes distant. Gilboa-Dalal echoed this, noting how captors blasted distorted news reports claiming Israel had "abandoned" them, fueling despair.Tal Shoham, released earlier but whose family ties into the broader narrative, called his 505 days in Gaza a "graveyard of the soul." Abducted with his wife and children from Kibbutz Be'eri, he witnessed "severe psychological warfare," including false claims of Israeli surrender. Matan Zangauker, 25, freed alongside his former partner Ilana Gritzewsky (released in November 2023), spoke of skin infections from unsanitary conditions and the constant fear of tunnel collapses during Israeli airstrikes.Yet, amid the horror, some noted glimmers of humanity from individual guards—sporadic extra food or quiet conversations about shared dreams of peace. Elkana Bohbot, 36, an event organizer at Nova, credited "one guard who slipped us candy" for small mercies, though he emphasized these were exceptions in a system designed to dehumanize."Monsters in the Dark": Psychological Torment and Calls for Justice The true weapon, hostages say, was the mind games. Captors like those holding Avinatan Or isolated him for nearly the entire two years, depriving him of human contact beyond interrogations. Or, reunited with Argamani in a tearful embrace, described beatings for refusing propaganda statements and endless loops of manipulated footage portraying Israel as the aggressor. "They called us spies, animals. But we refused to break for the monsters," he told reporters.IDF soldier Nimrod Cohen, 20, pulled from his disabled tank, relayed messages through earlier releases: "I'm okay, don't worry." But privately, he admitted to nightmares of execution threats. Twins Gali and Ziv Berman, separated post-abduction, endured what their aunt called "the longest time apart in their lives," with one twin hallucinating from dehydration.These stories underscore a pattern: Hamas's use of captives not just as leverage but as tools for morale-breaking and media manipulation. Videos released by the group—showing emaciated figures like Bipin Joshi, a Nepalese student killed in captivity—sparked global outrage. Joshi's family, who lobbied tirelessly, learned post-release that he was "murdered in the first months," his body returned among the deceased.In group debriefs, survivors like Alon Ohel, 24—a budding pianist kidnapped en route to music school—urge continued pressure for the dead. "We walked out alive, but 28 did not. Their families deserve closure," Ohel said, his fingers twitching as if still playing keys in the dark.A Nation Heals, But Scars Remain As Israel exhales, the release symbolizes more than personal reunions—it's a pivot toward fragile peace. President Isaac Herzog called it "thanks to God," while families like Miran's declared it a "victory for an entire people." Crowds at Re'im base cheered helicopters, and yellow ribbons—symbols of solidarity—came undone in parliament.But experts warn of long-term trauma. Psychologists anticipate years of therapy for PTSD, with hostages like Or facing reintegration challenges after isolation. Public figures, including Einav Zangauker (Matan's mother and a protest leader), vow to advocate for Gaza's reconstruction while demanding Hamas's disarmament—a ceasefire stipulation still in flux.For now, amid barbecues and hugs in hospital corridors, the hostages' voices remind us: Survival isn't just physical. It's the refusal to let darkness claim the light. As David put it simply, "We came home to tell the world: Never again."

Echoes from the Tunnels: Survivors Speak After Hamas Captivity

Baker Mayfield's Resurgence: Unlocking Potential with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2025In the high-stakes world of the NFL, few stories capture the essence of redemption quite like Baker Mayfield's journey with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. As we hit the midpoint of the 2025 season, Mayfield isn't just surviving—he's thriving, leading a Buccaneers squad that's emerged as one of the NFC's early powerhouses. With a 5-1 record through six games, Tampa Bay sits atop the NFC South, boasting an explosive offense that's averaging 27.5 points per game, good for sixth in the league. Mayfield's play has been the catalyst, but his path here underscores a stark contrast: the failures of his previous teams to harness his raw talent, now fully ignited under the Florida sun.<figure id="figure-ghdxqmotgmgs1zjkf"><img id="ghdxqmotgmgs1zjkf" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/36noVJCOkapuGzNbThM3gVVzjcqUgMNG8bPCNaDR3GPhmPg2sl1Gz1teumWc97Fh.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/36noVJCOkapuGzNbThM3gVVzjcqUgMNG8bPCNaDR3GPhmPg2sl1Gz1teumWc97Fh.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>A Rocky Road Before Tampa Drafted first overall by the Cleveland Browns in 2018, Mayfield burst onto the scene with promise. His rookie year saw him throw for 3,725 yards and 27 touchdowns, breaking rookie records and injecting life into a long-dormant franchise. Yet, the Browns' instability—coaching changes, offensive line woes, and Mayfield's own shoulder injury in 2021—stifled his growth. Despite leading Cleveland to their first playoff win in 26 years in 2020, inconsistencies mounted. By 2022, the Browns traded him to the Carolina Panthers, betting on Deshaun Watson instead.In Carolina, Mayfield's potential was buried under a mismatched system. The Panthers' offense lacked weapons, and head coach Matt Rhule's regime emphasized a run-heavy approach that didn't suit Mayfield's gunslinger style. He started just five games, posting a dismal 1-5 record with only six touchdowns against six interceptions before being benched and released. A brief stint with the Los Angeles Rams at the end of 2022 showed flashes—winning two of four starts and throwing for 850 yards—but it was a stopgap, not a revival.<figure id="figure-5orspo733smgs24ht5"><img id="5orspo733smgs24ht5" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/34AhYVrdyN7SQhOyIocg2cwQ8WzDOOfIfQcgqswOnO3oNLxITwi2z8lfeTot8Oli.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>These stops highlighted systemic issues: poor supporting casts, coaching mismatches, and organizational turmoil that prevented Mayfield from building rhythm. Critics labeled him a bust, but the underlying talent—the arm strength, mobility, and fiery competitiveness that won him the Heisman at Oklahoma—remained untapped.The Buccaneers' Formula: Stability and Synergy Enter the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2023, signing Mayfield to a one-year, prove-it deal as Tom Brady's successor. Skeptics abounded, but under head coach Todd Bowles and offensive coordinator Dave Canales (now Liam Coen in 2025), Mayfield found a system tailored to his strengths. The Bucs surrounded him with elite weapons: wideouts Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, a solid offensive line anchored by Tristan Wirfs, and a balanced run game featuring Rachaad White.The results? Immediate. In 2023, Mayfield threw for 4,044 yards and 28 touchdowns, leading Tampa to a 9-8 record, an NFC South title, and a playoff upset over the Eagles. He earned a three-year, $100 million extension. 2024 built on that with another division crown and 4,281 yards passing. But 2025? It's Mayfield 2.0.Through six games, Mayfield has completed 70.3% of his passes for 1,539 yards, 12 touchdowns, and just one interception—ranking him fourth in yards, tied for third in touchdowns, and among the league leaders in QBR. Highlights include a 38-35 shootout win over Seattle in Week 5, where he threw for 325 yards and three scores, and a dominant 30-19 victory against San Francisco in Week 6. His efficiency stems from quick reads, improved decision-making, and a willingness to take calculated risks, all amplified by the Bucs' scheme.The team's overall success mirrors this. At 5-1, Tampa's only loss came in a close 31-25 defeat to Philadelphia in Week 4. Defensively, they're opportunistic, forcing turnovers at a top-10 clip, while the offense ranks seventh in points scored. Evans and Godwin have combined for over 800 receiving yards already, and White's ground game adds balance. This isn't just Mayfield carrying the load; it's a symbiotic relationship where the Bucs' structure has resurrected his career.Why the Bucs Succeeded Where Others Failed The key difference? Consistency and belief. Previous teams viewed Mayfield as a placeholder or project, but Tampa invested in him as the franchise quarterback. Bowles' defensive-minded approach allows Mayfield offensive freedom without constant pressure to be perfect. The front office's savvy moves—retaining core players and drafting depth—created an environment where Mayfield could fail forward, learning from mistakes without fear of the bench.Contrast that with Cleveland's quarterback carousel or Carolina's coaching instability, and it's clear: The Bucs didn't just acquire Mayfield; they built around him. As Mayfield himself said post-Week 6, "This team believes in me, and that makes all the difference."Looking Ahead: Super Bowl Contenders? With matchups against division rivals like Atlanta and New Orleans looming, the Bucs are poised for a deep playoff run. If Mayfield maintains this pace—projecting to over 4,000 yards and 30+ touchdowns—Tampa could challenge NFC elites like the Packers (3-1) or Steelers (4-1). For Mayfield, it's validation: From castoff to cornerstone, his story is a testament to resilience.In a league where potential often goes unrealized, the Buccaneers have proven that the right fit can turn a flame into a fire. As the 2025 season unfolds, keep an eye on Tampa Bay—they're not just good; they're Mayfield-good.This article originally appeared on CapitolAndCleats.com, your source for in-depth NFL analysis and stories.

Tampa Bay Bucs Resurgence. Is Baker Leading the next Dynasty?

In the storied halls of Gillette Stadium, where echoes of six Super Bowl victories still linger, Mike Vrabel's return to the New England Patriots isn't just a coaching hire—it's a full-circle redemption story. The former linebacker, who anchored the defense during the team's early-2000s dominance, was named head coach in January 2025, stepping into a franchise reeling from back-to-back dismal seasons. Now, midway through the 2025 campaign, Vrabel has injected new life into a team that had hit rock bottom, earning glowing reviews from players and analysts alike while setting himself apart from the struggles of his predecessors.Vrabel's success story with the Patriots dates back to his playing days. Signed as a free agent in 2001 after being released by the Pittsburgh Steelers, he quickly became a cornerstone of Bill Belichick's defense. Over eight seasons, Vrabel amassed 48 sacks, 11 interceptions (including a memorable touchdown return in Super Bowl XXXVIII), and three Super Bowl rings. His versatility—lining up at outside linebacker, inside, and even catching touchdown passes as a goal-line tight end—made him a Swiss Army knife in Belichick's schemes. Inducted into the Patriots Hall of Fame in 2023, Vrabel's on-field legacy was already cemented, but his coaching acumen has elevated him to a new level.Fast forward to 2025, and Vrabel's first season at the helm has been a breath of fresh air. Benefiting from the NFL's third-easiest schedule, the Patriots have shown marked improvement, with recent road wins highlighting a team that's buying into Vrabel's vision. Analysts point to a revival, with the team climbing from the depths of consecutive 4-13 campaigns to a competitive force in the AFC East. Former teammates like Asante Samuel have praised his leadership, noting how he's won over the locker room in just five weeks. Even as the team prepares for a poignant matchup against the Tennessee Titans—Vrabel's former squad where he compiled a 56-48 record and earned Coach of the Year honors in 2021—the focus remains on building momentum.<figure id="figure-1yx6di6mmmgqufygt"><img id="1yx6di6mmmgqufygt" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1eLlpF2WbT2AQnKnsgVE6QKAgdQ0Jdwim7fh2H0plv26KnusLfiGIiI3HHB9mQbZ.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>What truly sets Vrabel apart? It's his blend of old-school toughness and modern relational coaching. Unlike many coordinators-turned-heads, Vrabel is a "true head coach," emphasizing preparation, accountability, and personal connections. Stories from his Titans tenure, like addressing sloppy shower habits to instill discipline, underscore his attention to detail—a trait that's already paying dividends in New England. Players play hard for him, crediting his leadership for fostering a culture where everyone—from rookies to veterans—feels invested. His experience as a championship player gives him credibility that resonates, something insiders say distinguishes him from less battle-tested coaches.This stands in stark contrast to the Patriots' recent history. In 2023, under the legendary Bill Belichick, the team stumbled to a 4-13 record—the worst in his 29-year coaching career—marked by offensive woes, defensive lapses, and a sense of an era ending. Belichick, who amassed 302 regular-season wins with New England, parted ways after the season, leaving a void filled with questions.The 2024 transition to Jerod Mayo, another former Patriots linebacker, was meant to usher in a new chapter but instead mirrored the previous year's failures. Mayo's debut started strong with an upset over the Bengals, but the season unraveled into another 4-13 finish, plagued by inexperience, staff issues, and growing pains. Lacking the broad connections and head-coaching pedigree, Mayo was fired after one year, highlighting the challenges of promoting from within without proven leadership chops.Vrabel, with his Titans success and Patriots roots, bridges the gap between the Belichick dynasty and a fresh start. His aggressive style—evident in bold play-calling and motivational prowess—has the team dealing with adversity head-on, as he emphasized in recent pressers. As the Patriots eye a playoff push, Vrabel's formula of discipline, relationships, and winning pedigree could be the spark that reignites Foxborough's fire.Capitol and Cleats: Where politics meets the pigskin. Views are ours, triumphs are shared.

Vrabel's Homecoming: Reviving the Patriots Dynasty in 2025

A football on a pile of money in dramatic light

As the 2025 college football season barrels toward its midpoint, the coaching carousel is spinning faster than ever, with buyouts already topping $93 million from seven FBS firings—and projections soaring past $200 million if more heads roll. These massive severances, often dwarfing the GDP of small nations, are the ultimate safety nets in a sport where wins are everything and patience is scarce. Funded by booster war chests and lucrative TV deals, buyouts provide ousted coaches with financial freedom to pivot, relax, or plot comebacks. But what happens after the checks clear? We dive into the post-buyout worlds of a few notable figures, from media darlings to sideline returnees, including the inimitable Ed Orgeron—Coach O—whose recent itch to coach again has the rumor mill churning.<figure id="figure-t1qb3h9rehmgqt3tv4"><img id="t1qb3h9rehmgqt3tv4" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/5AC4DxNfZh36ChqRv8cB4CjlhYwOazEoFWeMNuZ8a27fCVE99aXsLLJwoOHtA2bj.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/5AC4DxNfZh36ChqRv8cB4CjlhYwOazEoFWeMNuZ8a27fCVE99aXsLLJwoOHtA2bj.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Jimbo Fisher remains the king of buyout lore. Axed by Texas A&amp;M in 2023 after a 45-25 run that never quite delivered on his $95 million contract, Fisher pocketed a record-shattering $76 million—still the benchmark amid 2025's escalating payouts. Now 60, he's traded Aggieland for a nostalgic return to Tallahassee, where he coached Florida State to a 2013 national title. Fisher made headlines with a tearful campus visit in October 2025, his first since leaving in 2017, courtesy of his new gig as an ACC Network analyst. He's previewing rivalry games like FSU-Miami, backing Bill Belichick's rebuild at UNC, and even weighing in on his old quarterbacks' impacts across the 2025 landscape. With annual payments stretching to 2031, Fisher's life is a blend of broadcasting, fishing, and family—proof that a mega-buyout can turn firing into a golden retirement, or at least a cushy intermission.<figure id="figure-ezko63m8hgmgqt5ndu"><img id="ezko63m8hgmgqt5ndu" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/12ZW755N8P2uqUjwn9aDaQQU382FokedVUS6HnNpQn4ihk9rGigj3ViVLaku7Hz3.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/12ZW755N8P2uqUjwn9aDaQQU382FokedVUS6HnNpQn4ihk9rGigj3ViVLaku7Hz3.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Tom Allen's journey shows buyouts as springboards. Booted from Indiana in 2023 with $15.5 million after a promising 2020 but subsequent slides, Allen didn't idle. He spent 2024 as Penn State's defensive coordinator, honing his craft in Happy Valley. By January 2025, Clemson snapped him up as their DC and linebackers coach, a move hailed as one of the top coordinator hires of the cycle. Now in his first season with the Tigers, the 55-year-old is fortifying a defense amid Clemson's playoff push, living in the Upstate South Carolina vibe—far from Bloomington's chill but close to championship contention. "Coaching's my calling," Allen has said, embodying how a buyout buys time to level up.Gus Malzahn's path highlights the revolving door. After Auburn paid him $21.45 million to leave in 2020 following uneven years post-2013 title run, Malzahn landed at UCF, where he notched 9-win seasons in 2021 and 2022 but saw records dip amid Big 12 pressures. Admitting the Knights' gig was a "pressure cooker," he departed after 2024, wrapping a 105-62 career mark. In 2025, Malzahn resurfaced on Florida State's staff, bringing his offensive wizardry to Tallahassee—ironic, given his Auburn-FSU history. Settled in Florida, he's focused on family, golf, and scheming plays, his buyout ensuring no rush to reclaim a head spot.Butch Jones, fired from Tennessee in 2017 with $8.3 million after a rocky tenure, has carved a niche in the Sun Belt. At Arkansas State since 2021, he's built steadily, with recent recruiting hauls and a "monumental" 31-30 win over Texas State in October 2025 boosting morale. Living in Jonesboro, the 57-year-old relishes the grind, from pressers to reliving wild finishes—his buyout a distant memory in this redemptive chapter.<figure id="figure-0vl69xua2omgqt8jh2"><img id="0vl69xua2omgqt8jh2" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/37NbYpgSufKE3EK8mcUyWMLchAOjW0J9XRuzgc2mYf9Ut8BIQnKnZchYQWbmueqh.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/37NbYpgSufKE3EK8mcUyWMLchAOjW0J9XRuzgc2mYf9Ut8BIQnKnZchYQWbmueqh.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>No buyout tale is complete without Ed Orgeron, the raspy-voiced force behind LSU's 2019 championship. Separated from the Tigers in 2021 with $17 million amid scandals and slumps, Coach O has savored the spoils: gym sessions, motivational gigs, podcasts, and splits between Louisiana and California beaches. But on October 2, 2025, the 64-year-old declared he's "ready to coach again," leaving "a little meat on the bone." Where next? Insiders eye Group of Five head jobs like Tulane or Louisiana-Monroe for a Bayou homecoming, or defensive roles at rebuilding Power Four squads—Vanderbilt, Mississippi State, or even USC, his interim alma mater. Wildcards include UNLV for Vegas energy or Miami/Texas assistants, though Power Four head gigs seem longshots. With the carousel heating up—think potential $50M+ exits for James Franklin or Dabo Swinney if seasons sour—Orgeron's phone could buzz soon.In college football's money-soaked arena, buyouts aren't endings—they're encores. As 2025's firings mount, these stories remind us: getting canned might just be the best play call of all.Capitol and Cleats: Tackling the politics of play. Views are informed, not bought out.

Golden Parachutes and Gridiron Ghosts: The Lavish Afterlives of Bought-Out College Coaches – 2025 Edition

American Politics and Policy - Legalize Marijuana

As someone who's felt strongly about this issue for years, I can tell you firsthand the frustration of marijuana's legal limbo in America. Picture this: after a night of heavy drinking, you wake up late for work, feeling like death warmed over—head pounding, stomach churning, productivity shot. Now contrast that with my old routine when I was smoking weed regularly and not sweating drug tests: I'd be in bed by 7 or 8 PM, spend my off time chilling with PlayStation, and munch on whatever DoorDash delivered. No drama, no regrets the next morning. Yet, here's the kicker—why is it that you can go out, drink all night, potentially hit and kill someone on the road, and still show up to work the next day without a hitch? But if you go home, smoke some weed, play video games, and eat Cheetos, you risk getting fired over a failed drug test. This double standard isn't just unfair; it's downright hypocritical. And while some progress has been made at the state level, state and national legislatures are dragging their feet on full legalization. It's time for the nation to step in and fix this mess.The Current Landscape: Patchwork Progress Amid Federal Stagnation As of October 2025, marijuana legalization in the U.S. remains a fragmented mess. Forty states, three territories, and the District of Columbia allow medical cannabis use. Recreational use is legal in 24 states and DC, with more considering ballot measures or legislation. For instance, in May 2025, New Hampshire's House passed a bill to legalize adult-use cannabis with state-run stores, though it stalled in the Senate. Federally, however, marijuana is still classified as a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act, lumped in with drugs like heroin as having "no accepted medical use" and high abuse potential—despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary.The Biden administration has pushed for rescheduling to Schedule III, which would recognize medical benefits and ease some restrictions, but the DEA's latest update on October 8, 2025, indicates the process is ongoing without a firm timeline. Bills like the States Reform Act (SRA) aim to remove marijuana from the CSA entirely and create a federal regulatory framework, but they've languished in Congress. Even Republican senators are starting to acknowledge the need for federal alignment with state laws. So why the holdup? It's a toxic brew of historical inertia, powerful lobbies, and outdated federalism concerns.<figure id="figure-45h6bihotmmgqoj7a8"><img id="45h6bihotmmgqoj7a8" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1462159625/photo/legalization-of-marijuana.jpg?b=1&s=2048x2048&w=0&k=20&c=Eqe3NbGUEsjlvqzufvOqOzJpCM4kfc2WQZAiZ_FmZoU=" alt="Legalization of Marijuana" title="Legalization of Marijuana" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>Reasons Legislatures Won't Pull the Trigger: Vested Interests and Outdated Fears At the heart of the delay are deep-rooted reasons why Congress and remaining holdout states refuse to fully legalize. Historically, marijuana's federal prohibition stems from the 1930s, fueled by sensationalist media campaigns linking it to violence and the rise of synthetic painkillers that big pharma pushed as alternatives. Fast forward to today, and the resistance is more about money and power. The alcohol industry, for one, has hypocritically lobbied against cannabis legalization, fearing competition—WikiLeaks even exposed their behind-the-scenes efforts to keep pot illegal while profiting from booze.Then there's the prison-industrial complex and law enforcement groups, which benefit from the billions spent on enforcement. Federal legalization would disrupt interstate commerce barriers, allowing legal sales across state lines, but current laws prevent that, stifling the industry and keeping black markets alive. Federalism plays a role too: while states can diverge from federal policy (as they have), Congress hesitates to create a unified framework, citing the 10th Amendment and avoiding preempting state laws. Critics argue this creates a policy gap, where federal prohibition isn't uniformly enforced, leading to inconsistencies that violate equal protection rights.<p style="border-color: #e5e7eb; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-color: rgba(62,172,255,.5); --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-transform: translateX(0) translateY(0) rotate(0) skewX(0) skewY(0) scaleX(1) scaleY(1); --tw-border-opacity: 1; font-size: 18px; line-height: 28px; font-weight: 400; font-family: 'Hanken Grotesk', sans-serif;" data-mce-style="border-color: #e5e7eb; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-color: rgba(62,172,255,.5); --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-transform: translateX(0) translateY(0) rotate(0) skewX(0) skewY(0) scaleX(1) scaleY(1); --tw-border-opacity: 1; font-size: 18px; line-height: 28px; font-weight: 400; font-family: 'Hanken Grotesk', sans-serif;"><img id="85cw4wgjdqmgqocnmy" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1810815903/photo/canabis.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=1CTzlX67Y7QHmkzPU-XbHJtY7xtdl4HfiQn9IL5-H1w=" alt="Canabis" title="Canabis" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1810815903/photo/canabis.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=1CTzlX67Y7QHmkzPU-XbHJtY7xtdl4HfiQn9IL5-H1w=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" style="border-color: rgb(229, 231, 235); --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-pan-x: ; --tw-pan-y: ; --tw-pinch-zoom: ; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-gradient-from-position: ; --tw-gradient-via-position: ; --tw-gradient-to-position: ; --tw-ordinal: ; --tw-slashed-zero: ; --tw-numeric-figure: ; --tw-numeric-spacing: ; --tw-numeric-fraction: ; --tw-ring-inset: ; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-color: rgba(62,172,255,.5); --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-blur: ; --tw-brightness: ; --tw-contrast: ; --tw-grayscale: ; --tw-hue-rotate: ; --tw-invert: ; --tw-saturate: ; --tw-sepia: ; --tw-drop-shadow: ; --tw-backdrop-blur: ; --tw-backdrop-brightness: ; --tw-backdrop-contrast: ; --tw-backdrop-grayscale: ; --tw-backdrop-hue-rotate: ; --tw-backdrop-invert: ; --tw-backdrop-opacity: ; --tw-backdrop-saturate: ; --tw-backdrop-sepia: ; --tw-transform: translateX(0) translateY(0) rotate(0) skewX(0) skewY(0) scaleX(1) scaleY(1); --tw-border-opacity: 1; --tw-filter: ; --tw-backdrop-filter: ; --tw-bg-opacity: 1; background-color: rgb(243, 244, 246); width: 640px; margin: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); aspect-ratio: 16 / 9; object-position: center center;"> In states that haven't legalized, like Idaho or Wyoming, conservative lawmakers cling to outdated stigmas, ignoring public opinion—polls show over 60% of&nbsp; Americans support federal legalization. But change is slow because the federal government rarely shifts its drug stance quickly, as seen with decades of inaction. Rescheduling might happen, but full descheduling? Experts say it could be a decade away due to these entrenched barriers.The Blatant Hypocrisy: Alcohol Gets a Pass While Weed Gets the Boot This brings us to the elephant in the room: the glaring double standard between alcohol and marijuana. Alcohol, responsible for thousands of deaths annually from drunk driving and health issues, is fully legal and socially accepted. Taxpayers foot billions for alcohol-related rehab, yet policies demonize marijuana as more dangerous. As one Florida legalization campaign ad put it, banning cannabis while allowing alcohol is hypocritical—adults can drink responsibly (or not), but pot users face job loss over a urine test.Studies show marijuana's social stigma is harsher than alcohol's, despite alcohol causing more harm in terms of addiction, violence, and fatalities. Even universities enforce "alcohol is okay, pot is evil" rules, ignoring the irony. And governments? They're the biggest hypocrites—raking in cannabis tax revenue in legal states while banning their own employees from using it. If we're serious about public health, why not regulate and tax marijuana like alcohol, highlighting the intellectual dishonesty of current laws?My personal experience underscores this: weed helped me maintain a balanced life without the hangovers or risks of alcohol. Yet, fear of drug tests forced me to choose between relaxation and my job. How many more productive people are we sidelining over this?Time for Action: The Nation Must Step Up It's not right, and it's not sustainable. State legislatures in holdouts need to follow the lead of places like California and Colorado, where legalization has boosted economies without the predicted societal collapse. Nationally, Congress must pass comprehensive reform—deschedule marijuana, create federal regulations, and end employment discrimination based on off-duty use. Contact your representatives; support initiatives like those from NORML. The hypocrisy has gone on long enough. Let's legalize responsibly and treat adults like adults.Capitol and Cleats covers the intersection of politics, policy, and everyday life. Views expressed are those of the author.

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