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LOS ANGELES — UCLA football underclassmen carried their seniors off the field after Thursday’s practice as part of Bruin tradition, hoisting them above their shoulders in honor of the work they’ve done in their time with the team. Two days later, 42 players walked in the Senior Day celebration prior to the Bruins’ season finale against Fresno State at the Rose Bowl. Redshirt junior Carson Schwesinger took part in the celebration, indicating the possibility that the Butkus Award-nominated linebacker may not stay for another next season. Schwesinger and head coach DeShaun Foster said the FBS’ leading tackler has not made a decision as to whether he will go to the NFL. “He’s really going to do whatever is best for him in that situation,” Foster told reporters Wednesday. “I completely understand, especially if he gets the Butkus Award, and the way that he came out and performed this season. He deserves to get a shot and go to the NFL.” Receiver J.Michael Sturdivant also walked for Senior Day. Sturdivant, a redshirt junior, was UCLA’s third-leading receiver heading into Saturday’s game with 311 total yards and one touchdown. He averaged 31.1 yards per game. Sturdivant’s ability to stretch the field was underutilized in his two seasons at UCLA after he previously played two seasons at Cal. Offensive lineman Josh Carlin, edge rusher Oluwafemi Oladejo and defensive lineman Jay Toia each walked with the seniors Saturday and are expected to make a push for the NFL. “Incredibly grateful for the Bruin program, the UCLA program,” Oladejo told reporters Tuesday. “Came in here at the age of 19 and I’m now 21, so I’ve grown here a lot. Grown as a man, matured. Not just on the field but off the field as well. This means a lot to me.” Other notable players who took part in Senior Day: offensive lineman Garret DiGiorgio, quarterbacks Ethan Garbers and Chase Griffin, running back Keegan Jones, receiver Logan Loya, tight end Moliki Matavao and linebacker Kain Medrano. “A game like, this you want to send the seniors off on the right note,” Schwesinger said, “but on top of that, it’s being able to go out there and play competitively. We’re all here because we like to play football and you get a chance to do that, you’ve gotta go out and play your hardest.” Olympic and UCLA gymnast Jordan Chiles was in attendance for Saturday’s football game and gave a “4’s up” gesture on the big screen during the second quarter, promoting her return to UCLA. Chiles, a junior who took a year off to train for and compete in the 2024 Paris Olympics, will make her return as a Bruin for the upcoming 2025 season. She made the announcement in an interview with TODAY’s Hoda Kotb in early August. Related Articles Chiles won a silver medal in 2020 to make her the most decorated Olympian in UCLA women’s gymnastics history. She scored three perfect 10s in her 2022 season as a Bruin — two in floor exercise and one on the uneven bars. She won NCAA titles in both events in 2023 and was the runner-up in the all-around at the national championships. UCLA’s gymnastics season begins with its Meet the Bruins event on Dec. 14 at Pauley Pavilion.An interview with an accountant - Coralie Spencer Simon Langton Girls school

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Five things to know about Panama Canal, in Trump's sightsUCF coach Gus Malzahn reportedly resigning to take Florida State OC jobSaquon Barkley has become the Shohei Ohtani of the NFL. There's no better home run hitter playing football right now. Barkley had touchdown runs of 72 and 70 yards for the Philadelphia Eagles in a 37-20 victory over the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday night. He now has five runs of 50-plus yards this season and is on pace to break Eric Dickerson's single-season record of 2,105 yards set in 1984. Barkley's historic performance against the Rams — his 255 yards set a team record — captivated a national audience and turned him into a fan favorite for the AP NFL MVP award. He's not the betting favorite, however. Josh Allen has the best odds at plus-150, according to Bet MGM Sportsbook. Two-time MVP Lamar Jackson is next at plus-250 followed by Barkley at plus-400. Running backs have won the award 18 times, including three-time winner Jim Brown, who was the AP's first NFL MVP in 1957. Quarterbacks have dominated the award, winning it 45 times. Only three players who weren't QBs or RBs have been MVP. It takes a special season for a non-QB to win it mainly because the offense goes through the signal caller. Quarterbacks handle the ball every offensive snap, run the show and get the credit when things go well and the blame when it doesn't. Adrian Peterson was the most recent non-QB to win it when he ran for 2,097 yards and 12 touchdowns for the Minnesota Vikings in 2012. Playing for a winning team matters, too. Nine of the past 11 winners played for a No. 1 seed with the other two winners on a No. 2 seed. The Vikings earned the sixth seed when Pederson was MVP. Barkley is a major reason why the Eagles (9-2) are leading the NFC East and only trail Detroit (10-1) by one game for the top spot in the conference. Does he have a realistic chance to win the MVP award? Kicker Mark Moseley was the MVP in the strike-shortened 1982 season when he made 20 of 21 field goals and 16 of 19 extra points in nine games for Washington. If voters once selected a kicker, everyone has a chance, especially a game-changer such as Barkley. Defensive tackle Alan Page was the MVP in 1971 and linebacker Lawrence Taylor won it in 1986. Running back Christian McCaffrey finished third in voting last year and wide receiver Justin Jefferson placed fifth in 2022. The Offensive Player of the Year award and Defensive Player of the Year award recognize the best all-around players on both sides of the ball, allowing voters to recognize non-QBs if they choose. Wide receivers and running backs have won the AP OPOY award seven times over the past 11 seasons. McCaffrey was the 2023 winner. The AP's new voting format introduced in 2022 also gives non-QBs a better opportunity to get MVP recognition. Voter submit their top five picks for each award, with a weighted point system. Previously, voters made one choice for each award. A nationwide panel of 50 media members who regularly cover the league vote for MVP and seven other awards. The awards are based on regular-season performance. The Chiefs (10-1) and Bills (9-2) already are in position to lock up postseason berths right after Thanksgiving. Kansas City clinches a playoff berth with a win over Las Vegas on Black Friday and a loss by Miami on Thursday night, or a win plus a loss by Denver on Monday night. Buffalo can wrap up a fifth straight AFC East title with a victory over San Francisco on Sunday and a loss by the Dolphins. It's not a given that the Dallas Cowboys will be looking for a new head coach after this season. Owner Jerry Jones said Tuesday on local radio that Mike McCarthy could end up getting a contract extension. "I don't think that's crazy at all. This is a Super Bowl-winning coach. Mike McCarthy has been there and done that. He has great ideas. We got a lot of football left," Jones said. McCarthy led the Cowboys (4-7) to three straight 12-win seasons, but they went 1-3 in the playoffs and haven't reached the NFC championship game since winning the Super Bowl 29 years ago. Injuries have contributed to the team's struggles this season, but Dallas was just 3-5 before Dak Prescott was lost for the rest of the season. The Cowboys upset Washington last week and their next four games are against teams that currently have losing records. If they somehow end up 9-8 or even 8-9, Jones could make a case for keeping McCarthy. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox!

NDC Plans to Establish Ashanti Region as a Stronghold Following Electoral Victory

Chicago Bears starting left tackle Braxton Jones sustained a fractured left ankle in Sunday's loss to the Detroit Lions, NFL Network reported Monday. Jones, 25, was injured midway through the second quarter of Chicago's 34-17 setback. His lower leg was placed in an air cast before he left the field on a cart. He will have more tests but the initial diagnosis is a broken fibula, per the report. He faces a recovery period of at least four months. Jones has started all 40 of the games he has played since Chicago picked him in the fifth round of the NFL draft in 2022, including 12 starts this season. Larry Borom replaced Jones and will be the likely starter when the Bears (4-11) host the Seattle Seahawks (8-7) on Thursday night. --Field Level MediaCoote was sacked earlier this month after the emergence of a video in which he made derogatory remarks about Liverpool and their former manager Jurgen Klopp. Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) said that a thorough investigation had concluded he was “in serious breach of the provisions of his employment contract, with his position deemed untenable”. “Supporting David Coote continues to be important to us and we remain committed to his welfare,” PGMOL’s statement on December 9 added. Coote had the right to appeal against the decision but PA understands the Nottinghamshire referee has decided not to. The video which triggered PGMOL’s investigation into Coote’s conduct first came to public attention on November 11. In it, Coote is asked for his views on a Liverpool match where he has just been fourth official, and describes them as “s***”. He then describes Klopp as a “c***”, and, asked why he felt that way, Coote says the German had “a right pop at me when I reffed them against Burnley in lockdown” and had accused him of lying. “I have got no interest in speaking to someone who’s f****** arrogant, so I do my best not to speak to him,” Coote said. Later in the video, Coote again refers to Klopp, this time as a “German c***”. The Football Association opened its own investigation into that video, understood to be centred on that last comment and whether Coote’s reference to Klopp’s nationality constituted an aggravated breach of its misconduct rules. The investigation by PGMOL which led to Coote’s contract being terminated is also understood to have looked at another video which appeared to show Coote snorting a white powder, purportedly during Euro 2024 where he was one of the assistant VARs for the tournament. European football’s governing body UEFA also appointed an ethics investigator to look into the matter.

A new name has been on the tip of the tongue of those with a keen eye for social media this past week, as the amphitheatre of micro-blogging was introduced to its latest contender. Several Highland-based micro-bloggers, including journalists, activists, artists, authors, historians, sportspeople and politicians, have signed up to the upstart social media platform, Bluesky - which many media experts are calling a viable alternative to X (Twitter). RELATED: YOUR VIEWS: The vital role of local media Journalism Matters campaign finds three-quarters of Brits value trusted journalism more than ever Follow Highland News & Media titles on BlueSky First launched in October 2021, Bluesky today reports a user count of over 21 million, boasting an average of one million new user signups per day in the past week. Highland MSPs Maree Todd, Emma Roddick and Jamie Halcro Johnston are among a long list of Scottish Government ministers to have joined the platform, while author Ian Rankin, singer Julie Fowlis, and football clubs Brora Rangers, Clachnacuddin and Nairn County have also decided to sign up. Micro-blogging, a social medium designed for quick and typically direct audience interactions, first came to the fore with the launch of Twitter in 2006. But despite many alternatives popping up over the years, such as Mastadon and most recently, Meta’s Threads, the platform now known as X has remained largely unchallenged as the world’s number one choice. But the industry-defining social network, which was renamed after Tesla and Space X CEO Elon Musk acquired the platform for $44 billion in October 2022, has undergone significant change of late. The introduction of an opt-in, paid subscription service, which offers features such as longer posts and enhanced visibility, as well as a paid-for verification mark, attracted criticism from users and advertisers, concerned that the platform could become vulnerable to the sharing of disinformation. This was evidenced soon after its introduction when a spoof account with a paid-for verification mark masqueraded as drinks icon Pepsi, before tweeting the line, “Coke is better.” Many experts now believe that Bluesky - an ‘open source’ alternative - could become a viable competitor to Musk’s X. The app, accessible via bsky.app is currently top of the free section of the US iPhone App Store, above Meta’s alternative Threads and AI assistant ChatGPT, after a surge of new downloads. Bluesky is a PBC (public benefit corporation) with the mission “to develop and drive large-scale adoption of technologies for open and decentralized public conversation.” From the start, our goal has been to build a decentralized social network that is usable by the mainstream. [image or embed] The outcome of the US presidential election, which has since seen Musk named as the man to spearhead President-elect Trump’s new “Department of Government Efficiency”, has been highlighted as the likely catalyst for Bluesky’s sudden rise in popularity. Yesterday, Forbes.com described the growing app as a “decentralized alternative for those disillusioned by algorithmic favouritism, toxic discourse and privacy concerns.” Among those to join Bluesky this week is Highland MSP Maree Todd, Minister for Social Care, Mental Wellbeing and Sport, who believes that recent changes to the X platform have made it “increasingly more difficult to communicate and connect” with constituents. She said: "As a politician, it's important to me that I am accessible for my constituents, stakeholders, the media and local activists, and X, over the years, has supported me in this. “However, recent changes to the platform have made it increasingly more difficult to communicate and connect with these groups effectively. “I have also noticed a significant rise in the amount of online abuse I have experienced since the platform’s takeover. While scrutiny is part of the role, abuse is never acceptable, and I now find X to be a rather unpleasant online space. “I am also deeply concerned about the changes to the block function and what this means for online safety overall. “I am hopeful that Bluesky will provide a more constructive way of engaging with my constituents, similar to how X functioned prior to its takeover.” Inverness cycling advocate Emily Williams, who also left X to join Bluesky, says that the app’s facility to allow users to bulk-follow accounts using “starter packs” has made her micro-blogging experience less “toxic”. “It is a much more chilled place than Twitter,” she explains. “Most of the UK active travel chat folk have moved over wholesale, and there are follow lists that make things really easy. “Finding people was really easy. There are curated lists, so I just bulk-followed two or three active travel ones. There is less toxicity from the known anti-cycling brigade, so far less blocking and deleting! “It’s just nice having the chronological feed and no adverts, but I do need to do some admin so that I don’t miss stuff.” Photographer Mel Roger, who lives in Caithness, also made the switch, but she says she’s not quite ready to say goodbye to X just yet. She said: “I haven’t left X entirely yet as I still require to interact with and send information to users who have not yet moved platform, or have not yet added an additional platform. “I will run my posts down on X over the next few months though, using Facebook and Bluesky as the main outlets for links. When using X for news at the moment I no longer use the “for you” option, I only use the “following” option. “That’s seems to have reduced the amount of toxic posts that I see.” Fiona Macleod from Invergordon, who works for an adult learning charity, says the joy of finding people with shared interests is a big part of Bluesky’s appeal. “I really love the 'starter packs', making it easier to follow people linked to a topic so you can really tailor your feed to be full of people who are interested in the same thing as you. “I understand some may say that’s creating an ‘echo chamber’, but I personally think that’s the joy of it. “It's what we do in real life, we go to groups or take part in activities that interest us, we hang out with people that share interests with us.” Run by a staff of just 20 full-time employees, Bluesky is currently operated by its CEO, software engineer Jay Graber - but the app was originally conceptualised by former Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey. While Dorsey is no longer on the board of Bluesky, the application’s similarities to X are undeniable. It’s white butterfly on a blue background bears a striking resemble to "Larry the Bird", the iconic logo for Twitter for over a decade. The big difference though? Bluesky has been cultivated as an ‘open ecosystem’. While it might look like a familiar app on the surface, behind the scenes it's CEO says it has been designed to “always put users first.” Using the AP protocol - a system which emphasizes “decentralization, transparency and user autonomy” - users will have more control over their data and the curation of their feed. CEO Graber says it can ‘guarantee’ that the platform will always be open to developers to create new ways for their data and information to be used. One developer has already created a directory of “starter packs” enabling new Bluesky users to hit the ground running by following groups of people they will be most interested in. Another has created an analytics perform which allows Bluesky users to follow the growth of their account in real-time, or over custom date ranges. Bluesky uses AI internally to assist in content moderation, which helps us triage posts and shield human moderators from harmful content. We also use AI in the Discover algorithmic feed to serve you posts that we think you’d like.None of these are Gen AI systems trained on user content. Bluesky has also confirmed to users that their posts will not be used to train generative artificial intelligence (AI). In a post on November 15, Bluesky confirmed that it only uses AI to “assist in content moderation, in an effort to “triage posts and shield human moderators from harmful content.” It also uses it in its algorithmic Discover feed, but it says “none of these are Gen AI systems trained on user content.” But where Bluesky is not quite at the races yet is in having many of the ease-of-use features the likes of Twitter has come to possess after years as the market leader. On users’ list of “wants” will be tools such as the ability to schedule posts (a handy tool for marketers or content creators) or post longer videos (Bluesky currently limits video to 60 seconds). Bluesky still has a long way to go in matching up to X’s user count, 21 million is a far cry from X’s estimated 300 million active users worldwide, but if the speed of its growth in November is anything to go by, it appears as though it may be here to stay. A starting point as we await a few others signing up to BlueSky. Highland News & Media journalists assemble! Covering news and sport across the Highlands and Moray. Please share around. [image or embed]The Prime Minister said the season was a time to remember the importance of “being there for one another”, including in “the more difficult times”. He also expressed hope for “peace, particularly in the Middle East as the birthplace of the Christmas story” amid spiralling conflict across the region. The message comes after a challenging first five months in office for the Labour Government and against the backdrop of a flatlining economy and rising inflation. Sir Keir said: “This Christmas, people will be travelling up and down the country. Heading home, visiting relatives and loved ones to celebrate together the hope and joy of this special season. “It’s a time to remind ourselves what’s really important. Family. Friendship. And fellowship between all people. “Being there for one another – in these celebrations, as well as the more difficult times.” To our military and veterans, the whole nation thanks you for the sacrifices you make to keep us safe. My government will serve you as you have served your country. I wish you and your families a very happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year. pic.twitter.com/LphMZog6np — Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) December 22, 2024 The Prime Minister sought to strike an optimistic note following another year of political upheaval for Britain, which saw Labour win a landslide victory after a surprise election called by Rishi Sunak in the summer. After taking office in July, the new Government made a series of unpopular decisions as ministers confronted the realities of creaking public services and strained national finances. As well as dealing with the economic inheritance, Sir Keir said he needed to fix a “broken society” which manifested itself in summer riots across the country after the Southport knife attack. Sir Keir said: “This Christmas, I will be hoping for peace, particularly in the Middle East as the birthplace of the Christmas story. “I’ll be looking towards a better, brighter future for every person and celebrating the joy and wonder that Christmas brings. “So, from my family to yours, I hope you have a very merry Christmas.” The message comes after revised official figures released on Monday indicated that UK gross domestic product (GDP) showed no growth between July and September. Downing Street defended the Government’s record so far when asked about the data, telling reporters: “We had to take those tough decisions to lay the foundations of growth such that we can then deliver the higher living standards over this Parliament that people want to see.” The Prime Minister also used his message to thank those spending Christmas serving others, including in the NHS and emergency services, the armed forces, churches and charities. “I know that this is not an easy time for everyone, and my thoughts are with all those who are lonely this Christmas. “Having a tough time, missing a loved one. You are not alone,” he said. Meanwhile, Kemi Badenoch said Christmas was a time to reflect on “all that’s happened in the year” and “support all of those people who need our assistance”. “I want to take this opportunity to say thank you to everyone, not just in the Conservative Party or in my constituency, but across the country,” the Tory leader said. “For all that you have been doing in your communities, supporting each other and helping to keep all our towns, villages and places going. “I think that Christmas is a time for us to reflect on all that’s happened in the year. “Sometimes we have amazing years. “Sometimes, like when I lost my dad, we have difficult years and we’re commiserating, but we do it together. “But it’s a time for us to support all of those people who need our assistance, who need our help, who need our support.” She added: “And I’m looking forward to 2025. “I wish you all the very best for the New Year and all of the exciting things to come.” Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey said: “This year, I’ve had the chance to spend time with some amazing young carers. “Incredible young people who will spend this Christmas doing what they do all year round; looking after loved ones who are ill or disabled. “Carers embody the Christmas spirit of love, selflessness and generosity. “So I hope we can all take some time to think of them, and keep them in our hearts. “And wish them – and everyone – a Christmas full of peace, joy and love.”The AP Top 25 men’s college basketball poll is back every week throughout the season! Get the poll delivered straight to your inbox with AP Top 25 Poll Alerts. Sign up here . LAHAINA, Hawaii (AP) — Andrej Jakimovski converted an off-balance layup with 8 seconds left, and Colorado handed No. 2 UConn its second loss in two days at the Maui Invitational, beating the two-time defending national champion 73-72 on Tuesday. A day after a 99-97 overtime loss to Memphis that left Huskies coach Dan Hurley livid about the officiating, UConn (4-2) couldn’t shake the unranked Buffaloes (5-1), who shot 62.5% in the second half. With Colorado trailing 72-71 in the closing seconds, Jakimovski drove to his right and absorbed contact from UConn’s Liam McNeeley. He tossed the ball toward the glass and the shot was good as he fell to the floor. Hassan Diarra missed a 3-pointer just ahead of the buzzer for UConn. Elijah Malone and Julian Hammond III scored 16 points each for Colorado, and Jakimovski had 12 points and 10 rebounds. The Huskies led 40-32 at halftime and by nine points early in the second half, but Colorado quickly closed that gap. McNeeley led UConn with 20 points. Takeaways UConn: Hurley’s squad is facing its first adversity in quite a while. The Huskies arrived on Maui with a 17-game winning streak that dated to February. Colorado: The Buffaloes were held to season lows in points (56) and field goal percentage (37%) in a 16-point loss to Michigan State on Monday but shot 51.1% overall and 56.3% (9 of 16) from 3-point range against the Huskies. Key moment Hurley called timeout to set up the Huskies’ final possession, but the Buffs forced them to take a contested 3. Key stat Colorado had a 28-26 rebounding advantage after being out-rebounded 42-29 by Michigan State. Up next Colorado plays No. 5 Iowa State in the fifth-place game Wednesday. UConn will play Dayton in the seventh-place game. ___ Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-basketball .

Anne showed off a glamorous new look Anne Hegerty, better known as The Governess on ITV's quiz show The Chase, recently made a striking appearance in the show's festive special, stunning fans with a glamorous transformation. Known for her stern persona and distinctive grey suit, Hegerty swapped her usual look for dazzling sequins and sparkle, joining host Bradley Walsh and competing against McFly drummer Harry Judd in a Christmas charity special aimed at raising funds for various causes. Fans were quick to comment on her new look. On the social media platform X, one viewer wrote: "Anne looking gorgeous". Another fan celebrated her style update, posting: "Finally, they get @anne_hegerty out of that... Frankie CollinsLONGMONT, Colo. , Nov. 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- S&W Seed Company SANW today announced it has filed its 10-Q for the three months ended September 30, 2024 . S&W previously issued preliminary first quarter fiscal 2025 financial results on November 19, 2024 . The financial results filed in the 10-Q are in line with the preliminary financial results previously released. In addition to the filing of the 10-Q, the Company announced yesterday that it has finalized the voluntary plan of administration, or VA, process for its subsidiary, S&W Seed Company Australia Pty Ltd, or S&W Australia. In the announcement on November 19, 2024 , the Company also introduced new guidance for fiscal 2025, which includes adjusted EBITDA for the remaining three quarters of fiscal 2025 (period from October 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025 ) to be between approximately ($1.9) million and $0.1 million . The Company is maintaining that guidance as a result of the filing of the 10-Q and finalization of the VA process. "As a result of the VA process being completed, on a go forward basis S&W is exclusively focused on its core U.S.-based operations led by our high margin Double Team sorghum solutions as well as our biofuels joint venture with Shell," commented S&W Seed Company's CEO, Mark Herrmann . "As we announced during our preliminary earnings call on November 19, 2024 , we believe we have a robust commercial plan in place to drive continued adoption of Double Team and other high value sorghum trait solutions, including the planned launch of our Prussic Acid Free trait this fiscal year. We are similarly focused on driving efficiencies across our production and operating operations. Our guidance indicates continued strong improvement in gross margins, coupled with a reduction in operating expenses, which is paving the way for us to approach positive adjusted EBITDA performance. In fact, we are expecting the high end of our range to be at adjusted EBITDA breakeven for the rest of fiscal 2025. This would be a significant potential milestone if we can achieve our expectations." Financial Results Total revenue for the first quarter of fiscal 2025 was $8.3 million compared to total revenue for the first quarter of fiscal 2024 of $10.8 million . This decrease was driven by a $1.5 million decrease in non-dormant alfalfa sales in the Middle East and North Africa region driven by the import ban on alfalfa in Saudi Arabia , a $0.8 million decrease in sorghum sales in Mexico related to tightening of credit policies and carryover seed from the prior year in the market, a $0.5 million decrease in Double Team sorghum revenue, a $0.4 million decrease in sorghum sales to South Africa due to limited inventory supply of compatible hybrids, and a $0.3 million decrease in conventional sorghum sales due to an extended sales season in the prior year. This decrease was offset by a $0.5 million increase in non-dormant alfalfa sales in the United States , a $0.3 million increase in non-dormant alfalfa sales in Mexico , and a $0.3 million increase in dormant alfalfa sales in the United States . Gross profit margin for the first quarter of fiscal 2025 was 16.1% compared to gross profit margin for the first quarter of fiscal 2024 of 25.3%. The gross profit percentage decrease was primarily driven by an estimated 6.5 point decrease attributable to the Company's International segment, with an estimated 3.8 point decrease related to lower selling prices in the Middle East North Africa region due lower demand, and an estimated 2.7 point decrease in margin related to South Africa sorghum sales due to the available supply of reduced quality and low cost seed in the prior year. The net gross profit for the Americas segment decreased primarily due to inventory write-offs. GAAP operating expenses for the first quarter of fiscal 2025 were $5.6 million compared to GAAP operating expenses for the first quarter of fiscal 2024 of $5.7 million . This decrease was due to a $0.1 million decrease in selling, general, and administrative expenses. Adjusted operating expenses (see Table A1) for the first quarter of fiscal 2025 were $4.5 million compared to $4.8 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2024. The $0.3 million decrease in adjusted operating expenses for the first quarter of fiscal 2025 was largely attributed to a $0.2 million decrease in selling, general, and administrative expenses after excluding non-recurring transaction costs. Net loss from continuing operations for the first quarter of fiscal 2025 was ($6.2) million , or ($2.73) per basic and diluted share, compared to ($5.0) million , or ($2.22) per basic and diluted share for the first quarter of fiscal 2024. Net loss from discontinued operations for the first quarter of fiscal 2025 was ($10.0) million , or ($4.38) per basic and diluted share, compared to ($0.9) million , or ($0.41) per basic and diluted share, for the first quarter of fiscal 2024. GAAP net loss for the first quarter of fiscal 2025 was ($16.2) million , or ($7.11) per basic and diluted share, compared to ($6.0) million , or ($2.63) per basic and diluted share, for the first quarter of fiscal 2024. Adjusted net loss (see Table A2) for the first quarter of fiscal 2025 was ($4.9) million , or ($2.15) per basic and diluted share, excluding the loss from discontinued operations, interest expense - amortization of debt discount, non-recurring transaction costs, dividends accrued for participating securities and accretion, and equity in loss of equity method investee (Vision Bioenergy), net of tax. Adjusted net loss (see Table A2) for the first quarter of fiscal 2024 was ($3.8) million , or ($1.70) per basic and diluted share, excluding the loss from discontinued operations, interest expense - amortization of debt discount, non-recurring transaction costs, dividends accrued for participating securities and accretion, and equity in loss of equity method investee (Vision Bioenergy), net of tax. Adjusted EBITDA (see Table B) for the first quarter of fiscal 2025 was ($3.1) million compared to adjusted EBITDA for the first quarter of fiscal 2024 of ($1.7) million . S&W Australia As previously reported, S&W Australia adopted a voluntary plan of administration on July 24, 2024 , and on October 11, 2024 , creditors of S&W Australia approved a proposed Deed of Company Arrangement, or DOCA, pursuant to which, among other things, 100% of the shares in S&W Australia would be transferred to Avior Asset Management No. 3 Pty Ltd. The effective date of the DOCA was November 22 , 2024. In order to facilitate the satisfaction of certain conditions to the effectiveness of the DOCA, on November 22, 2024 , S&W entered into a settlement agreement in exchange for a release from the intercompany obligations owed to S&W Australia. S&W will transfer ownership of certain white clover and alfalfa (lucerne) intellectual property, provide the associated inventory, repay insurance proceeds received on behalf of S&W Australia, and provide transitional support to S&W Australia necessary to assist in the changeover of business operations to a standalone entity. S&W also entered into an agreement with National Australia Bank Limited that releases S&W from the AUD $15.0 million guarantee and obtained a release of certain applicable liens from CIBC Bank USA . Fiscal 2025 Guidance S&W expects fiscal 2025 revenue to be within a range of $34.5 to $38.0 million . This includes approximately $4.1 million of international sales in the just completed first quarter of fiscal 2025. Adjusted EBITDA is expected to be in the range of ($5.0) million to ($3.0) million for fiscal 2025. Adjusted EBITDA for the first quarter of fiscal 2025 was ($3.1) million indicating that the Company expects adjusted EBITDA for the remaining three quarters of the fiscal year to be in a range of ($1.9) to $0.1 million . Non-GAAP Financial Measures In addition to financial results reported in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP"), S&W has provided the following non-GAAP financial measures in this release and the accompanying tables: adjusted EBITDA; adjusted operating expenses; as well as adjusted net loss and adjusted net loss per share. S&W uses these non-GAAP financial measures internally to facilitate period-to-period comparisons and analysis of its operating performance and liquidity, and believes they are useful to investors as a supplement to GAAP measures in analyzing, trending and benchmarking the performance and value of its business. However, these measures are not intended to be a substitute for those reported in accordance with GAAP. These measures may be different from non-GAAP financial measures used by other companies, even when similar terms are used to identify such measures. For reconciliations of historical non-GAAP financial measures to the most comparable financial measures under GAAP, see Tables A1, A2, and B accompanying this release. In order to calculate these non-GAAP financial measures, S&W makes targeted adjustments to certain GAAP financial line items found on its condensed consolidated statement of operations, backing out non-recurring or unique items that we believe otherwise distort the underlying results and trends of the ongoing business. S&W has excluded the following items from one or more of its non-GAAP financial measures for the periods presented: Selling, general and administrative expenses; operating expenses. S&W excludes from operating expenses depreciation and amortization and a portion of SG&A expense related to non-recurring transaction costs and, for its adjusted EBITDA calculation, also non-cash stock-based compensation. S&W excludes non-recurring transaction costs from S&W's total operating expenses to provide investors a method to compare its operating results to prior periods and to peer companies, as such amounts can vary significantly based on the frequency of restructuring or acquisition events and the magnitude of restructuring or acquisition expenses. Net loss on discontinued operations : S&W excludes the net loss on discontinued operations, as this is outside of the scope of normal operations and is related to the disposal and operations of S&W Australia, which is no longer applicable. S&W believes it is important to exclude this amount in order to better understand its business performance. Foreign currency loss. The foreign currency loss represents fluctuations from changes in exchange rates that are uncertain or out of S&W's control and cannot be reasonably predicted. S&W believes it is useful to exclude this amount in order to better understand its business performance and allow investors to compare its results with peer companies. Interest expense – amortization of debt discount . Amortization of debt discount and debt issuance costs are primarily related to S&W's working capital lines of credit and term loans. These amounts are non-cash charges and are unrelated to its core performance during any particular period. S&W believes it is useful to exclude these amounts in order to better understand its business performance and allow investors to compare its results with peer companies. Interest expense, net . Interest expense, net primary consists of interest incurred on S&W's working capital credit facilities, the MFP Loan, the AgAmerica loan, and equipment capital leases. S&W believes it is useful to exclude these amounts in order to better understand its business performance and allow investors to compare its results with peer companies. Dividends accrued for participating securities and accretion . Dividends accrued for participating securities and accretion relates to dividends accrued for the Series B convertible preferred stock and the accretion for the discount related to the warrants issued in conjunction with the Series B convertible preferred stock. S&W believes it is useful to exclude these amounts in order to better understand its business performance and allow investors to compare its results with peer companies. Equity in loss of equity method investee (Vision Bioenergy), net of tax . This loss represents S&W's percentage of Vision Bioenergy's loss for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, as it has significant influence in Vision Bioenergy. S&W believes it is useful to exclude these amounts in order to better understand its business performance and allow investors to compare its results with peer companies. Descriptions of the non-GAAP financial measures included in this release and the accompanying tables are as follows: Adjusted Operating Expenses . S&W defines adjusted operating expenses as GAAP operating expenses adjusted to exclude depreciation and amortization, loss (gain) on disposal of property, plant and equipment, and non-recurring transaction costs. S&W believes that the use of adjusted operating expenses is useful to investors and other users of its financial statements in evaluating its operating performance because it provides a method to compare its operating results to prior periods and to peer companies after making adjustments for depreciation and amortization and amounts that are not expected to recur. Adjusted net loss and loss per share . S&W defines adjusted net loss as net loss attributable to S&W less interest expense – amortization of debt discount, non-recurring transaction costs, dividends accrued for participating securities and accretion, and equity in loss of equity method investee (Vision Bioenergy), net of tax. S&W believes that these non-GAAP financial measures provide useful supplemental information for evaluating its operating performance. Adjusted EBITDA. S&W defines adjusted EBITDA as net loss attributable to S&W adjusted to exclude the loss from discontinued operations, interest expense, net, interest expense – amortization of debt discount, provision for (benefit from) income taxes, depreciation and amortization, non-recurring transaction costs, non-cash stock-based compensation, foreign currency loss, equity in loss of equity method investee (Vision Bioenergy), net of tax, and dividends accrued for participating securities and accretion. S&W believes that the use of adjusted EBITDA is useful to investors and other users of its financial statements in evaluating its operating performance because it provides them with an additional tool to compare business performance across companies and across periods. S&W uses adjusted EBITDA in conjunction with traditional GAAP operating performance measures as part of its overall assessment of its performance, for planning purposes, including the preparation of its annual operating budget, to evaluate the effectiveness of its business strategies and to communicate with its Board concerning its financial performance. Management does not place undue reliance on adjusted EBITDA as its only measure of operating performance. Adjusted EBITDA should not be considered as a substitute for other measures of financial performance reported in accordance with GAAP. Financial Tables For a complete press release including financial tables, please view online at: https://swseedco.com/investors/press-releases/ . About S&W Seed Company Founded in 1980, S&W is a global multi-crop, middle-market agricultural company headquartered in Longmont, Colorado . S&W's vision is to be the world's preferred proprietary seed company which supplies a range of sorghum, forage and specialty crop products that supports the growing global demand for animal proteins and healthier consumer diets. S&W is a global leader in proprietary alfalfa and sorghum seeds with significant research and development, production and distribution capabilities. S&W also has a commercial presence in pasture and sunflower seeds, and through a partnership, is focused on sustainable biofuel feedstocks primarily within camelina. For more information, please visit www.swseedco.com . Safe Harbor Statement This release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. "Forward-looking statements" describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies and are generally preceded by words such as "ability," "believe," "may," "future," "plan," "intends" "should" or "expects." Forward-looking statements in this release include, but are not limited to: our success in growing and expanding our Double Team operations in the Americas and driving the continued adoption of Double Team Grain Sorghum; our expected timelines for the development and launch of our planned products and the anticipated commercial success of such products; the shift in revenue towards our higher margin products and the expected continued increase in profit margins; and the success of our cost-saving, production optimization and operational initiatives to reduce operating expenses and drive our business towards profitability. You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including risks and uncertainties related to: market adoption of products designed to support the energy transition and customer demand for our partnership's products; the effects of unexpected weather and geopolitical and macroeconomic events, such as global inflation, bank failures, supply chain disruptions, uncertain market conditions, the armed conflict in Sudan , the ongoing military conflict between Russia and Ukraine and related sanctions and the conflict in the Middle East , on our business and operations as well as those of our partnership, and the extent to which they disrupt the local and global economies, as well as our business and the businesses of our partnership, our customers, distributors and suppliers; sufficiency of our partnership's cash and access to capital in order to develop its business; the sufficiency of our cash and access to capital in order to meet our liquidity needs, including our ability to pay our growers as our payment obligations come due; our need to comply with the financial covenants included in our loan agreements, refinance certain of our credit facilities and raise additional capital in the future and our ability to continue as a "going concern"; changes in market conditions, including any unexpected decline in commodity prices, may harm our results of operations and revenue outlook; our proprietary seed trait technology products, including Double Team, may not yield their anticipated benefits, including with respect to their impact on revenues and gross margins; changes in the competitive landscape and the introduction of competitive products may negatively impact our results of operations; demand for our Double Team sorghum solution may not be as strong as expected; our business strategic initiatives may not achieve the expected results; previously experienced logistical challenges in shipping and transportation of our products may become amplified, delaying our ability to recognize revenue and decreasing our gross margins; we may be unable to achieve our goals to drive growth, improve gross margins and reduce operating expenses; the inherent uncertainty and significant judgments and assumptions underlying our financial guidance; and the risks associated with our ability to successfully optimize and commercialize our business. These and other risks are identified in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including, without limitation, our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended June 30, 2024 and in other filings subsequently made by us with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date on which they were made and are based on management's assumptions and estimates as of such date. We do not undertake any obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of the receipt of new information, the occurrence of future events or otherwise. Company Contact: Mark Herrmann , Chief Executive Officer S&W Seed Company Phone: (720) 593-3570 www.swseedco.com Investor Contact: Robert Blum Lytham Partners, LLC Phone: (602) 889-9700 sanw@lythampartners.com www.lythampartners.com S & W SEED COMPANY CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (UNAUDITED) Three Months Ended September 30, 2024 2023 Revenue $ 8,309,476 $ 10,757,347 Cost of revenue 6,973,108 8,032,197 Gross profit 1,336,368 2,725,150 Operating expenses: Selling, general and administrative expenses 4,002,211 4,153,561 Research and development expenses 741,820 778,889 Depreciation and amortization 814,453 806,835 Gain on disposal of property, plant and equipment loss 11,462 (22,091) Total operating expenses 5,569,946 5,717,194 Loss from operations (4,233,578) (2,992,044) Other expense (income): Foreign currency loss 7,926 570 Interest expense - amortization of debt discount 361,138 356,567 Interest expense - convertible debt and other 761,879 948,728 Other expenses (income) 22,686 (37,560) Loss before income taxes (5,387,207) (4,260,349) Provision for (benefit from) income taxes 1,142 (12,292) Loss before equity in net earnings of affiliates (5,388,349) (4,248,057) Equity in loss of equity method investees, net of tax 846,878 776,973 Net loss from continuing operations (6,235,227) (5,025,030) Net loss from discontinued operations (9,994,499) (931,887) Net loss (16,229,726) (5,956,917) Loss attributable to noncontrolling interests — (7,288) Net loss attributable to S&W Seed Company $ (16,229,726) $ (5,949,629) Calculation of net loss per share: Net loss attributable to S&W Seed Company $ (16,229,726) $ (5,949,629) Dividends accrued for participating securities and accretion (127,892) (120,045) Net loss attributable to common shareholders $ (16,357,618) $ (6,069,674) Net loss per share from continuing operations, basic and diluted $ (2.73) $ (2.22) Net loss per share from discontinued operations, basic and diluted $ (4.38) $ (0.41) Net loss attributable to S&W Seed Company per common share, basic and diluted $ (7.11) $ (2.63) Net loss attributable to common shareholders per common share, basic and diluted $ (7.17) $ (2.68) Weighted average number of common shares outstanding, basic and diluted 2,282,780 2,263,643 S & W SEED COMPANY CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (UNAUDITED) As of September 30, 2024 As of June 30, 2024 ASSETS CURRENT ASSETS Cash and cash equivalents $ 480,359 $ 286,508 Accounts receivable, net 16,588,371 14,636,722 Receivable from unconsolidated subsidiary 367,349 — Inventories, net 26,549,387 22,628,343 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 2,616,306 3,431,226 Current assets of discontinued operations — 22,391,691 TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS 46,601,772 63,374,490 Property, plant and equipment, net 5,980,625 6,127,198 Intellectual property, net 19,919,389 20,265,618 Other Intangibles, net 3,099,003 3,206,720 Right of use asset - operating leases 890,086 1,113,833 Equity method investments 18,847,331 19,694,209 Other assets 1,272,948 1,364,532 Non-current assets of discontinued operations — 5,578,941 TOTAL ASSETS $ 96,611,154 $ 120,725,541 LIABILITIES, MEZZANINE EQUITY AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY CURRENT LIABILITIES Accounts payable $ 9,396,043 $ 3,255,928 Payable to unconsolidated subsidiary 16,214,514 - Deferred revenue 2,056,703 832,283 Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 5,814,941 3,770,773 Bank guarantee 5,000,000 - Current portion of working capital lines of credit, net 16,114,500 16,174,537 Current portion of long-term debt, net 284,239 315,304 Current liabilities of discontinued operations — 44,893,499 TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES 54,880,940 69,242,324 Long-term debt, net, less current portion 4,652,369 4,721,849 Other non-current liabilities 659,996 800,620 Non-current liabilities of discontinued operations — 929,623 TOTAL LIABILITIES 60,193,305 75,694,416 MEZZANINE EQUITY Preferred stock, $0.001 par value; 3,323 shares authorized; 1,695 issued and outstanding at September 30, 2024 and June 30, 2024 5,896,657 5,768,765 TOTAL MEZZANINE EQUITY 5,896,657 5,768,765 STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Common stock, $0.001 par value; 75,000,000 shares authorized; 2,284,096 issued and 2,282,780 outstanding at September 30, 2024; 2,282,574 issued and 2,281,258 outstanding at June 30, 2024 43,398 43,369 Treasury stock, at cost, 1,316 shares at September 30, 2024 and June 30, 2024 (134,196) (134,196) Additional paid-in capital 169,048,535 168,807,072 Accumulated deficit (138,448,097) (122,090,479) Accumulated other comprehensive loss (30,156) (7,405,114) Noncontrolling interests 41,708 41,708 TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY 30,521,192 39,262,360 TOTAL LIABILITIES, MEZZANINE EQUITY AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY $ 96,611,154 $ 120,725,541 S & W SEED COMPANY CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED) Three Months Ended September 30, 2024 2023 CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES Net loss $ (16,229,726) $ (5,956,917) Loss from discontinued operations (9,994,499) (931,887) Loss from continuing operations (6,235,227) (5,025,030) Adjustments to reconcile net loss from operating activities to net loss cash used in operating activities: Stock-based compensation 243,908 402,641 Provision for credit losses — 165,342 Inventory write-down 298,127 350,000 Depreciation and amortization 814,453 806,835 Loss (gain) on disposal of property, plant and equipment 11,462 (22,091) Equity in loss of equity method investees, net of tax 846,878 776,973 Foreign currency transactions 7,926 570 Amortization of debt discount 361,138 356,567 Accretion of note receivable — (63,738) Changes in: Accounts receivable (1,947,797) (1,596,260) Receivable from unconsolidated subsidiary 113,383 — Inventories (4,219,171) (455,529) Prepaid expenses and other current assets 814,968 (503,941) Other non-current assets 1,089 35,834 Accounts payable 6,140,115 5,208,316 Payable to unconsolidated subsidiary 250,495 — Deferred revenue 1,224,420 (157,440) Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 2,055,445 1,761,480 Other non-current liabilities 3,050 21,984 Net cash provided by operating activities from continuing operations 784,662 2,062,514 Net cash used in operating activities from discontinuing operations (1,434,917) (1,267,836) Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities (650,255) 794,678 CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES Additions to property, plant and equipment (138,041) (116,346) Proceeds from disposal of property, plant and equipment 25,700 74,657 Net cash used in investing activities from continuing operations (112,341) (41,689) Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities from discontinuing operations 25,079 (105,089) Net cash used in investing activities (87,262) (146,778) CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES Borrowings and repayments on lines of credit, net (344,155) (4,306,362) Borrowings of long-term debt — 9,087 Repayments of long-term debt (81,847) (2,420) Payments of debt issuance costs (50,169) (41,322) Net proceeds from sale of common stock — (153,230) Taxes paid related to net share settlements of stock-based compensation awards (2,416) (15,176) Net cash used in financing activities from continuing operations (478,587) (4,509,423) Net cash provided by financing activities from discontinued operations 1,409,838 1,409,452 Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 931,251 (3,099,971) EFFECT OF EXCHANGE RATE CHANGES ON CASH 117 40,700 NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH & CASH EQUIVALENTS 193,851 (2,411,371) CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, beginning of the period 286,508 3,398,793 CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, end of period $ 480,359 $ 987,422 SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION Cash paid during the period for: Interest $ 831,003 $ 1,360,904 Income taxes 25 22,225 TABLE A1 S&W SEED COMPANY ITEMIZED RECONCILIATION BETWEEN OPERATING EXPENSES AND NON-GAAP ADJUSTED OPERATING EXPENSES (UNAUDITED) Three Months Ended September 30, 2024 2023 Operating expenses $ 5,569,946 $ 5,717,194 Less: Depreciation and amortization (814,453) (806,835) Non-recurring transaction costs (238,084) (162,232) Loss (gain) on disposal of property, plant and equipment (11,462) 22,091 Non-GAAP adjusted operating expenses $ 4,505,947 $ 4,770,218 TABLE A2 S&W SEED COMPANY ITEMIZED RECONCILIATION BETWEEN NET LOSS AND NON-GAAP ADJUSTED NET LOSS (UNAUDITED) Three Months Ended September 30, 2024 2023 Net loss attributable to S&W Seed Company $ (16,229,726) $ (5,949,629) Net loss from discontinued operations 9,994,499 931,887 Interest expense - amortization of debt discount 361,138 356,567 Non-recurring transaction costs 238,084 162,232 Dividends accrued for participating securities and accretion (127,892) (120,045) Equity in loss of equity method investee (Vision Bioenergy), net of tax 846,878 776,973 Non-GAAP adjusted net loss $ (4,917,019) $ (3,842,015) Non-GAAP adjusted net loss attributable to S&W Seed Company per common share, basic and diluted $ (2.15) $ (1.70) Weighted average number of common shares outstanding, basic and diluted 2,282,780 2,263,643 TABLE B S&W SEED COMPANY ITEMIZED RECONCILIATION BETWEEN NET LOSS AND NON-GAAP ADJUSTED EBITDA (UNAUDITED) Three Months Ended September 30, 2024 2023 Net loss attributable to S&W Seed Company $ (16,229,726) $ (5,949,629) Net loss from discontinued operations 9,994,499 931,887 Interest expense, net 761,879 948,728 Interest expense - amortization of debt discount 361,138 356,567 Provision for (benefit from) income taxes 1,142 (12,292) Depreciation and amortization 814,453 806,835 Non-recurring transaction costs 238,084 162,232 Non-cash stock-based compensation 243,908 402,641 Foreign currency loss 7,926 570 Equity in loss of equity method investee (Vision Bioenergy), net of tax 846,878 776,973 Dividends accrued for participating securities and accretion (127,892) (120,045) Non-GAAP adjusted EBITDA $ (3,087,711) $ (1,695,533) View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/sw-files-first-quarter-2025-10-q-302316985.html SOURCE S&W Seed Company © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.Princess Charlotte looks on in awe at surprise performance after Kate Middleton said Prince Louis, six, was 'bursting' to spill the beans The Princess of Wales's Together At Christmas aired on ITV on Christmas Eve READ MORE: Prince Louis' words to Kate at her Christmas carol concert By ELEANOR DYE and ALANAH KHOSLA and REBECCA ENGLISH, ROYAL EDITOR Published: 22:39 GMT, 24 December 2024 | Updated: 23:09 GMT, 24 December 2024 e-mail 28 shares View comments It appears Prince Louis may have managed to keep his 'big secret' after all - as Princess Charlotte was surprised with a ballet performance at Kate's carol concert. The service, which was filmed at London 's Westminster Abbey earlier this month, is Kate's fourth annual Christmas Eve concert and was attended by members of the royal family including Prince William and their children George, Charlotte and Louis. When the service was filmed on December 6, Kate said that she had enlisted Prince Louis, six, to keep the performance by soloists from the Royal Ballet as a surprise for her daughter Princess Charlotte, nine. Kate told Paloma Faith that Louis had been 'bursting' to spill the beans - leading royal fans to doubt that he would actually be able to. But during the spectacular performance on Tuesday night, Charlotte appeared awed and surprised as she watched the ballet - meaning Louis may have held true to his word after all. Speaking to Paloma Faith, Kate said she asked Louis 'Can you keep a secret otherwise it won't be a surprise for Charlotte, who loves her ballet dancing'. She said that Louis agreed. 'He has kept the secret for, what, nearly two weeks now.' 'Very challenging,' said Faith. Princess Charlotte appeared visibly awed as she watched a ballet performance at Kate's carol concert - meaning Prince Louis kept his 'big secret' after all Kate told Paloma Faith that Louis had been 'bursting' to spill the beans - leading royal fans to doubt that he would actually be able to 'For a six-year-old,' replied Kate. 'And then this morning he said: "Mummy, please can I tell her - I'm bursting." I did drop off and he really wanted to tell her. I think - hopefully - he's kept it.' Prince Louis has long stolen the nation's hearts with his adorable actions, and he also delivered a sweet handwritten note during the service. 'Thank you for granny and grandpa because they have played games with me,' the special message read. Meanwhile Princess Charlotte certainly stole the show at the carol service. The young royal, nine, won hearts across the nation through her sweet enjoyment of the service, giggling at various moments alongside her brothers Prince George, 11, and Louis. Richard E. Grant was one of the readers at the service, retelling his tale of A Christmas Carol with some very entertaining voices and expressions. The Wales siblings appeared to be having a thoroughly enjoyable time, with all three laughing and exchanging glances with one another. Charlotte, nine, couldn't keep the smile off her face as she watched the ballet with her family Louis had managed to keep it to himself despite sitting next to Charlotte for the duration of the service Princess Charlotte certainly stole the show at her mother Kate's annual carol service, which aired on Christmas Eve The princess was also seen giggling during the carol O Come All Ye Faithful - but soon composed herself and began singing along heartily. She was also very much the sensible sibling as the family lit candles at the start of the service, with a calm and controlled Charlotte making sure young Prince Louis had his candle lit and was behaving sensibly. During Away In A Manager Charlotte didn't even need to look at her carol sheet, confidently belting the words alongside her smiling mother Kate. And during a ballet performance - for which she was in the front row - Charlotte looked on in awe, fixated on the spectacle. The Princess of Wales returned to screens to host her annual Together At Christmas carol concert after her toughest year yet. The service, which was filmed at Westminster Abbey earlier this month, is Kate's fourth annual Christmas Eve concert and was attended by members of the royal family including Prince William and their children George, Charlotte and Louis. Kate bravely hosted crowds with a beaming smile on her face after an incredibly difficult year in which she has completed preventative chemotherapy treatment for cancer . At the start of her annual carol concert, Kate called for people to 'slow down and reflect on the deeper things that connect us all' and turn to 'love, not fear'. The broadcast of Kate's service featured a special festive message from the royal, 42, in which she spoke about the importance of love and empathy. It marked one of the few times the mother-of-three has made a public appearance this year, after undergoing her cancer treatment - and is part of her gradual return to royal duties. Her heartfelt message was also given in a letter to every guest at the concert on December 6, and 15 regional community services. Kate said: 'Christmas is one of my favourite times of the year, it is a time for presents, tinsel and mince pies, but it's also a time to slow down and reflect on the deeper things that connect us all. 'It is when we stop and take ourselves away from the pressures of daily life, that we find the space to live our lives with an open heart, with love, kindness and forgiveness, so much of what the Christmas spirit is all about. The young royal, nine, took charge with lighting the candles, making sure her brothers were being sensible She was also very much the sensible sibling as the family lit candles at the start of the service, with a calm and controlled Charlotte making sure young Prince Louis had his candle lit and was behaving sensibly The young princess was as regal as ever as she sat in the front row alongside her brother Louis and mother Kate Charlotte was listening very intently throughout the service and enthusiastically joined in the singing Prince William and Catherine Princess of Wales together with their children Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis at the end of the service The Princess of Wales has returned to screens to host her annual Together At Christmas carol concert after her toughest year yet The Waleses had the front row at the carol service, with the three children sitting in between Kate and William The Princess of Wales called for people to 'slow down and reflect on the deeper things that connect us all' and turn to 'love, not fear' in the opening for her annual carol concert 'The Christmas story encourages us to consider the experiences and feelings of others. It also reflects our own vulnerabilities and reminds us of the importance of giving and receiving empathy, as well as just how much we need each other in spite of our differences. Above all else, it encourages us to turn to love, not fear.' The theme of this year's 'Together at Christmas' concert is love and empathy, which is perhaps suitable considering the difficult year the Princess has had. Kate continued: 'The love that we show ourselves and the love we show others. Love that listens with empathy, love that is kind and understanding, love that is forgiving, and love that brings joy and hope. 'It is love which is the greatest gift we can receive, not just at Christmas but every day of our lives.' Her message was told in the form of a voice over played at the start of the 'Together at Christmas' carol concert at Westminster Abbey. Kate has been described as being ‘hands on’ over every aspect of the service, including holding regular planning meetings at Windsor ahead of filming. On the day the service was filmed, the Princess arrived on her own at 4pm to view the abbey and oversee last minute arrangements. However, the supportive royals have also helped Kate bring her ideas together, with everyone from King Charles , who donated Christmas trees, and Prince Louis, who penned a sweet note, helping to make the service a seasonal success. Kate was joined by her supportive family - Prince William and her children George, Charlotte and Louis A sweet moment from the start of the service showed Princess Charlotte lighting her younger brother Prince Louis's candle Kate was joined by her supportive children who have been by her side throughout her cancer battle Kate (pictured left) hosted her fourth 'Together at Christmas ' concert at Westminster Abbey at the start of December, with members of the royal family such as Prince William and the Wales children Prince George, Prince Louis and Princess Charlotte in attendance The Princess of Wales looked elegant in an Alexander McQueen red coat, featuring a statement black bow, which she teamed with black Ralph Lauren boots for the festive occasion. The event, which was attended by 1,600 people 'reflects upon...how much we need each other, especially in the most difficult times of our lives'. The service will shine a light on individuals from all over the UK who have shown love, kindness and empathy towards others in their communities'. 'It's been a focal point for her, as it is each year,' a source added. Combining traditional and modern elements to encompass people of all faiths and none, the service will see the world-renowned Westminster Abbey choir perform some of the nation’s most beloved carols, alongside musical performances by guests including Olivia Dean, Gregory Porter, Paloma Faith and JP Cooper, as well as a specially composed piece by pianist Rosey Chan. Guests will also watch a specially curated performance by two Soloists from The Royal Ballet and students from The Royal Ballet School. During the service, poignant readings linked to the theme of love and empathy will be delivered by speakers including The Prince of Wales, Olympian Adam Peaty OBE, Sophie Okonedo CBE, Michelle Dockery and Richard E. Grant. The Princess of Wales, 42, hosted her fourth 'Together at Christmas' service at the historic church in the heart of London at the start of December Alongside this, candles will be lit by notable people linked to the theme including Lindsey Burrow, Sir Chris Hoy MBE, and teammate Paralympians Lizzi Jordan and Danni Khan. Nodding to the importance of nature as a source of healing and comfort, the Abbey will be adorned with sustainable, festive decorations and foliage, providing a beautiful Christmas backdrop for the Service. This year a ‘Kindness Tree’ will be situated outside the Abbey for guests to dedicate a decoration to someone who has supported them throughout their life, highlighting the importance of empathy, love and kindness to us all. 'In addition, guests waiting to enter the Abbey, will be treated to 2 music by young performers, including a 25-piece steel pan band and jazz ensemble from Restore the Music, a nationwide charity funding music education for young people Sat behind the Wales family, who were in the front row, was Princess Anne 's daughter Zara Tindall, who looked stunning in a velvet suit, while the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester were behind William. Next to them was George Gilman, who is married to the Gloucesters' daughter, Lady Rose Windsor. Prince Louis and the Princess of Wales during the Together At Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey Lady Rose wasn't present, but Gilman was joined by their daughter Lyla, 14, amid the backdrop of the beautifully decorated Abbey. After Kate's opening speech, the broadcast of her annual festive gathering is narrated by Scottish actress Kelly Macdonald and 'featurse three special community films which bring to life the stories of people and organisations who have inspired, counselled and comforted others in their times of need'. Kensington Palace said: 'In each of the films, the groups are seen receiving letters from the princess inviting them to attend – and in the case of the Sankofa Songsters sing at – the service at Westminster Abbey.' The films showcase the Worcestershire Gingerbread Group, Go Beyond and intergenerational choir the Sankofa Songsters. The Prince and Princess of Wales and their children, Prince George, Prince Louis and Princess Charlotte, arrive for the Together At Christmas carol service The first - focusing on the Worcestershire Gingerbread Group - will highlight a single mother based in Worcestershire, who set up the ground to tackle loneliness. The film showcasing Go Beyond will feature six young carers aged between eight and 13, who 'go above and beyond every day to show empathy and support to their families'. And the last will detail an intergenerational choir based in Belong Chester. This not-for-profit care village brings together care home residents and their young friends from The Nursery in Belong, operated by national charity Ready Generations. Kensington Palace says the choir has 'enhanced the lives of everyone, strengthening relationships between all ages by spreading kindness and love, with members aged from two to 100.' It comes after it was revealed the Princess reached out to grieving Lady Gabriella Windsor for help in planning her carol concert. Kate made her appeal over the summer to Lady Gabriella, 43, whose husband Thomas Kingston killed himself in February. The daughter of Prince and Princess Michael of Kent took a major role in planning the Westminster Abbey service on December 6. Lady Gabriella’s husband financier Thomas Kingston, 45, died on February 25 from a head injury and a gun was found near his body at his parents’ home in the Cotswolds. Lady Helen Taylor and Lady Gabriella Windsor arrive for the Together At Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey in London The Princess of Wales meets Gregory Porter, Olivia Dean and Paloma Faith during the carol service Princess Charlotte, Prince Louis and the Princess of Wales during the Together At Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey The carol service was staged on December 6 and featured performances by Paloma Faith, jazz singer Gregory Porter, singer-songwriter JP Cooper who performed with the Soul Sanctuary Choir and new singing talent Olivia Dean. Kate and William were joined by their children Prince George, 11, Princess Charlotte, nine, and Prince Louis, aged six, who all held candles during the service, as did the other guests who included members of the monarchy. Olympic cycling champion Sir Chris Hoy, who is terminally ill with prostate cancer, lit a candle as did Lindsey Burrow, the wife of former rugby league star Rob Burrow who died in June following a much-publicised battle with motor neurone disease. Readings were given by actors Richard E Grant, Downton Abbey star Michelle Dockery, Sophie Okonedo, nominated for an Oscar for her role in the film Hotel Rwanda, and Olympic swimming gold medallist Adam Peaty. The service, produced by The Royal Foundation, aims to 'celebrate the many people supporting those in need – individuals who have inspired, counselled, comforted, and above all else shown that love is the greatest gift we can receive'. ITV said: 'This theme takes inspiration from the Christmas story which encourages us to consider the experiences of others and the important human need of giving and receiving empathy.' The concert was the first time the Wales family had been seen together in public since their appearance at Trooping the Colour , the King's birthday parade, in June. Kate Middleton , 42, hosted her fourth 'Together at Christmas ' service at the historic church in the heart of London at the start of December. Pictured: Gregory Porter As he performs the Christmas anthem - written by Noël Regney and Gloria Shayne in 1962 as a plea to end the Cuban Missile Crisis - the camera pans to show an audience engrossed in his rendition The concert was one of the few times the mother-of-three has made a public appearance this year, after undergoing a course of preventative chemotherapy in the first half of 2024 She was also accompanied by the wider Middleton family , from supportive mother Carole to sister Pippa, 41, and brother James, 37. The princess, who has been 'hands on' over every aspect of the service and held regular planning meetings at Windsor, arrived on her own at 4pm to view the abbey and oversee last minute arrangements before walking around to greet other guests. When singer Paloma Faith expressed sympathy for the princess, who this year underwent chemotherapy, Kate, 42, replied: 'I didn't know this time last year it was going to be the year I've just had '. She went on: ‘The unplanned... but I think lots of people this year have had such challenging times and many who are here today...' The princess, who married Prince William in 2011 and attended the late Queen's funeral in 2022 at Westminster Abbey, said that the building held 'so many memories' for her. Royal Carols: Together At Christmas is available to watch now on ITV1 and ITVX. Prince George Kate Middleton ITV Royals Share or comment on this article: Princess Charlotte looks on in awe at surprise performance after Kate Middleton said Prince Louis, six, was 'bursting' to spill the beans e-mail 28 shares Add commentSaquon Barkley has become the Shohei Ohtani of the NFL. There's no better home run hitter playing football right now. Barkley had touchdown runs of 72 and 70 yards for the Philadelphia Eagles in a 37-20 victory over the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday night. He now has five runs of 50-plus yards this season and is on pace to break Eric Dickerson's single-season record of 2,105 yards set in 1984. Barkley's historic performance against the Rams — his 255 yards set a team record — captivated a national audience and turned him into a fan favorite for the AP NFL MVP award. He's not the betting favorite, however. Josh Allen has the best odds at plus-150, according to Bet MGM Sportsbook. Two-time MVP Lamar Jackson is next at plus-250 followed by Barkley at plus-400. Running backs have won the award 18 times, including three-time winner Jim Brown, who was the AP's first NFL MVP in 1957. Quarterbacks have dominated the award, winning it 45 times. Only three players who weren't QBs or RBs have been MVP. It takes a special season for a non-QB to win it mainly because the offense goes through the signal caller. Quarterbacks handle the ball every offensive snap, run the show and get the credit when things go well and the blame when it doesn't. Adrian Peterson was the most recent non-QB to win it when he ran for 2,097 yards and 12 touchdowns for the Minnesota Vikings in 2012. Playing for a winning team matters, too. Nine of the past 11 winners played for a No. 1 seed with the other two winners on a No. 2 seed. The Vikings earned the sixth seed when Pederson was MVP. Barkley is a major reason why the Eagles (9-2) are leading the NFC East and only trail Detroit (10-1) by one game for the top spot in the conference. Does he have a realistic chance to win the MVP award? Kicker Mark Moseley was the MVP in the strike-shortened 1982 season when he made 20 of 21 field goals and 16 of 19 extra points in nine games for Washington. If voters once selected a kicker, everyone has a chance, especially a game-changer such as Barkley. Defensive tackle Alan Page was the MVP in 1971 and linebacker Lawrence Taylor won it in 1986. Running back Christian McCaffrey finished third in voting last year and wide receiver Justin Jefferson placed fifth in 2022. The Offensive Player of the Year award and Defensive Player of the Year award recognize the best all-around players on both sides of the ball, allowing voters to recognize non-QBs if they choose. Wide receivers and running backs have won the AP OPOY award seven times over the past 11 seasons. McCaffrey was the 2023 winner. The AP's new voting format introduced in 2022 also gives non-QBs a better opportunity to get MVP recognition. Voter submit their top five picks for each award, with a weighted point system. Previously, voters made one choice for each award. A nationwide panel of 50 media members who regularly cover the league vote for MVP and seven other awards. The awards are based on regular-season performance. The Chiefs (10-1) and Bills (9-2) already are in position to lock up postseason berths right after Thanksgiving. Kansas City clinches a playoff berth with a win over Las Vegas on Black Friday and a loss by Miami on Thursday night, or a win plus a loss by Denver on Monday night. Buffalo can wrap up a fifth straight AFC East title with a victory over San Francisco on Sunday and a loss by the Dolphins. It's not a given that the Dallas Cowboys will be looking for a new head coach after this season. Owner Jerry Jones said Tuesday on local radio that Mike McCarthy could end up getting a contract extension. "I don't think that's crazy at all. This is a Super Bowl-winning coach. Mike McCarthy has been there and done that. He has great ideas. We got a lot of football left," Jones said. McCarthy led the Cowboys (4-7) to three straight 12-win seasons, but they went 1-3 in the playoffs and haven't reached the NFC championship game since winning the Super Bowl 29 years ago. Injuries have contributed to the team's struggles this season, but Dallas was just 3-5 before Dak Prescott was lost for the rest of the season. The Cowboys upset Washington last week and their next four games are against teams that currently have losing records. If they somehow end up 9-8 or even 8-9, Jones could make a case for keeping McCarthy. Get local news delivered to your inbox!

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EXCLUSIVE How a chance meeting got former Tottenham star Sandro out of retirement to play for seventh-tier Harborough Town in the biggest game in their history Ex-Spurs and Brazil midfielder Sandro joined Harborough Town on November 5 Seventh-tier Harborough will play Reading in round two of the FA Cup on Sunday This Man City team is DONE and Pep Guardiola has been sleeping on the job - LISTEN NOW to It's All Kicking Off! New episodes every Monday and Thursday By DAVID COVERDALE Published: 17:30 EST, 30 November 2024 | Updated: 17:39 EST, 30 November 2024 e-mail View comments The effervescent manager of Harborough Town is holding court at a press conference when he is interrupted by 'The Beast' strolling through the door of the members' bar, which is serving as a media room. 'Sorry I'm late,' says Sandro, the 6ft 2in tall former midfielder for Brazil and Tottenham , where fans gave him his nickname, who had arrived half-an-hour behind schedule after driving from London to Leicestershire. 'That's a fine!' bellows his beaming boss Mitch Austin to much laughter, as his new signing sheepishly blames the traffic before finding a space to stand next to the bricklayer, gas engineer and glazier who he now calls his team-mates. After observing the rest of Austin's entertaining pre-match conference, Sandro heads to the dressing room to get ready for his first training session with the Southern League Premier Division Central club — more than two years after he last played competitive football. 'I think I can do it,' jokes the 35-year-old as he ambles on to the 4G pitch in near-freezing temperatures, the last player to join the group following a massage and his own interview commitments. 'He just said to me, "Have you got any gloves?" Austin said as he follows Sandro out of the tunnel. 'I said, "No, get out there".' Former Tottenham and Brazil midfielder Sandro signed for Harborough Town on November 5 Sandro spoke to Mail Sport this week ahead of his first appearance in the FA Cup since 2016 Sandro played in 106 first-team games for Spurs between 2010 and 2014, scoring three goals But if his late arrival, massage and gloves request appear to paint the ex-Premier League star as a prima donna, that could not be further from reality. No, this is a man who has come out of retirement to play for free for the seventh-tier Midlands club in the biggest match in their history — Sunday's FA Cup second-round tie at Reading. And all as a goodwill gesture following a chance meeting with Tottenham season ticket-holder Austin in a hospitality box earlier this season. 'It's a funny story,' starts Sandro, who later poses for pictures with a replica of the FA Cup, which Austin was given when Harborough — who had never previously gone past the second qualifying round — reached the first-round proper. 'I work for Tottenham at home games, talking to the fans. Mitch was in the restaurant and was saying, "Sandro, you look good, you should play for my team." I said, "Yeah, why not, man, let's go." It was just like that.' Sandro looks as trim as ever and signed for the Bees on November 5, but was banned from playing for two matches, having been sent off in his last pro appearance, for Belenenses in Portugal's top flight in April 2022. He is, though, eligible to make his debut on Sunday for the lowest-ranked club left in the world's oldest cup competition. 'I thought I was finished and that I was never going to play again,' Sandro says. 'It is so magical for me after two years of just watching football and missing it. 'Now I have an opportunity to express myself again in one tackle, one header. I used to play against Reading in the Premier League and now I am going to face them in the FA Cup. His shock move to Harborough came more than 12 months after he had retired from football Sandro pictured training with his team-mates ahead of Sunday's FA Cup clash with Reading As well as winning 17 senior caps for Brazil, Sandro played at the Olympic Games in 2012 'To be part of this and to enjoy myself and try to help them, it is just what I want. I know they are living the dream — and I am living the dream as well.' Sandro's retirement U-turn is perhaps the most eccentric act yet in a life that has been full of them. Famously, he became hooked on darts after moving to Tottenham for £8million from Internacional in Brazil in 2010, striking up an unlikely friendship with former world finalist Bobby George. When Mail Sport interviewed him at his home in Essex in 2012, he stunned our reporter by singing and strumming his guitar to Coldplay and the Black Eyed Peas. Twelve years on, Sandro breaks into song again when asked what tune he performed in front of Harborough's players for his initiation. 'Nossa, nossa, assim voce me mata,' he sings tunefully in his native tongue. 'In Brazil, it is a good song,' Sandro says. If his dressing-room singing helped him integrate into the Harborough squad, so too did his attitude at training on Wednesday night, when he could be heard celebrating every tackle won by a team-mate in the small-sided games. That is not to say, though, that Sandro was not apprehensive about playing again after so long out of the game. 'When I said yes to playing, I needed to start to run because I was just doing strength work in the gym, not running,' he admits. 'My body wasn't ready to go again after two years. 'I was back in Brazil last week and I called my friends and said, "You have to help me out here because I have a game coming up." So we arranged a seven-a-side with friends and it was good.' Midfielder Sandro looked fit and appeared to be training very hard ahead of Sunday's match Sandro has refused to be paid by Harborough - even rejecting offers to cover his expenses The next match he plays will be at Reading, where Sandro played for Tottenham in the Premier League in 2012, when he enjoyed a 3-1 win, thanks to two goals from Jermain Defoe and one from Gareth Bale. 'Gareth, I always said that he was the best player I played with. He could do everything, anything,' says Sandro, who spends most of his time in Portugal and has completed his UEFA B Licence as he bids to become a manager. Sandro also played alongside Brazilian superstars Ronaldinho, Neymar and Ronaldo, who he calls 'Phenomenon', during his 17-cap international career. 'I enjoyed my time and I want to enjoy it again.' His enjoyment could only be topped if Harborough — who have won two promotions in three seasons — beat Reading and are drawn away at Spurs in the third round. 'How amazing that would be,' he says, with another huge grin. 'If that happens, count me in.' Reading Tottenham Hotspur Brazil FA Cup Share or comment on this article: How a chance meeting got former Tottenham star Sandro out of retirement to play for seventh-tier Harborough Town in the biggest game in their history e-mail Add comment

CLEMSON, S.C. (AP) — South Carolina coach Shane Beamer has no doubt about where his surging, 16th-ranked Gamecocks belong in the postseason — chasing a national championship. “It's hard for me to say we're not one of the 12 best teams in the country,” a giddy Beamer said Saturday after watching his team pull off another late miracle, courtesy of quarterback LaNorris Sellers, to defeat No. 12 Clemson 17-14. Sellers scored his second touchdown , this one from 20 yards out with 1:08 to play, for South Carolina's sixth straight victory, four of them in that run coming over ranked opponents. Are you paying attention, College Football Playoff selectors? “If the committee's job is to pick the 12 best teams, you tell me,” Beamer said. It would be hard to pick against the Gamecocks (9-3, 5-3 SEC; No. 15 CFP) with Sellers, a confident, poised freshman, playing as well as he is. He finished with 166 yards rushing and 164 yards passing. Two games ago, he set career bests with 353 yards passing and five TD throws in twice rallying the Gamecocks from fourth-quarter deficits to defeat Missouri 34-30. This time, Sellers shrugged off his interception near Clemson's goal with less than 11 minutes left to lead his team to a field goal and then his game winner. Sellers spun away from defender Peter Woods in the backfield, broke through the line and cut left to reach the end zone. Sellers hears defenders get angry when they get their hands on but can't bring down the speedy, 6-foot-3 passer in his first year since taking over for Spencer Rattler. How does he do it? “I don't really know,” Sellers said. Beamer had an answer to that one, too. “He's a competitor, he's a warrior,” Beamer said. “He doesn't get too high or too low. He's out there having fun.” The Gamecocks hope to have more fun in a week so, confident they'll hear their name called among the expanded field of 12 that will play for a national crown. They know, too, they'll have Sellers leading the way. “He's a magician, man,” Gamecocks linebacker Demetrius Knight Jr. said. “LeMagic, LeComeback, whatever you want to call him.” Clemson (9-3, 7-1 ACC, No. 12) had a final chance and drove to the South Carolina 18 with 16 seconds left — well within reach of a tying field goal — when Cade Klubnik was intercepted by Knight to end things. The Gamecocks were 3-3 after losing at Alabama in mid-October and then pulled off their longest winning streak since 2012. The Tigers also were hoping to play their way into the CFP's 12-team field. But their offense had too many costly mistakes and their defense could not corral Sellers. “He's a great player and made great players,” Clemson linebacker Barrett Carter said. Still, there could be postseason hope for Clemson, which will cross its fingers and pray Syracuse can pull off an upset over No. 8 Miami later Saturday that would get the Tigers into the Atlantic Coast Conference title game next week against SMU. Both teams came in on highs, the Tigers having won three straight and the Gamecocks five in a row, including three consecutive over ranked opponents Texas A&M, Vanderbilt and Missouri. But neither team found its offensive rhythm in the opening half. Sellers was sacked by T.J. Parker and turned the ball over as Parker recovered with South Carolina inside the Clemson 20. The Tigers drove to the South Carolina 11 and turned down a chip-shot field goal to go for it on fourth-and-1. But Mafah was stopped way short by Jalon Kilgore and Knight. Klubnik had scoring runs of 13 and 18 yards for the Tigers. South Carolina: What a run by the Gamecocks, who before the season were picked 13th in the SEC and now may find themselves part of the national championship playoff field. Clemson: The Tigers lost to both ranked SEC opponents they faced this season, first to No. 1 Georgia to start the year and then to rival South Carolina. Tigers coach Dabo Swinney was proud of his team's regular season but knew the loss might leave it short of getting back to the playoff. “We could've had a great year,” he said. "We got better this season, a lot of positives to build on. “But this one is tough. It's tough. It hurts,” he continued. Shane Beamer knew what a big week it was when he got a voicemail from his old boss, former South Carolina coach Steve Spurrier. “Beamer, you're doing great,” said Spurrier, who coached the Gamecocks from 2005-2014. “This might be the biggest game in the history of South Carolina.” South Carolina and Clemson both await their postseason games. Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-football