Australian University Tracks Student Protesters via Wi-Fi Data

University of Melbourne and Wi-Fi Location Data Controversy

In a recent incident, the University of Melbourne in Australia was found to have used Wi-Fi location data to identify students involved in a protest. This action took place during a sit-in protest in July 2024. According to a report by the state of Victoria’s Office of the Information Commissioner, the university directed protestors to leave the building they occupied and warned those who remained could face suspension, disciplinary action, or be reported to the police.

The report highlighted that 22 individuals chose to stay, and the university used both CCTV and Wi-Fi location data to identify them. While the use of CCTV was not considered a privacy breach, the use of Wi-Fi location data raised concerns. The Information Commissioner noted that individuals were not aware of how their Wi-Fi data was being collected or used, which meant they couldn’t make an informed decision about using the Wi-Fi network during the protest.

Following the investigation, the university revised its policies regarding the use of location data. As a result, the Office of the Information Commissioner decided not to issue a formal compliance notice but will continue to monitor the university to ensure it adheres to its new policies.

Fastly Explores Expansion into Asia

Content delivery network (CDN) service provider Fastly is exploring ways to expand its services into Asia. Like other CDN providers, Fastly deploys its infrastructure close to the network edge to bring data closer to consumers. However, Fastly prefers fewer, more substantial infrastructure deployments compared to its competitors.

CEO Kip Compton recently stated that expanding into Asia presents challenges due to the large populations in countries like India and Indonesia, where infrastructure is limited. He also mentioned that many Indian users still rely on phones with small screens, which reduces the demand for high-bandwidth streaming. However, he predicts that as more capable phones become available, data usage across Asia will increase significantly.

Fastly is currently researching how to adapt its CDN to meet these evolving needs, ensuring it can deliver efficient and effective services to Asian markets.

SK Hynix Unveils 321-Layer SSDs

South Korean memory manufacturer SK Hynix has announced the mass production of 321-layer QLC NAND chips, marking a significant advancement in storage technology. This is the first time a company has produced QLC NAND with over 300 layers, offering improved performance and efficiency.

According to SK Hynix, the new memory technology enhances write performance by up to 56% and read speeds by 18%, while also improving energy efficiency. These chips will initially be used in 2TB SSDs for personal computers before being integrated into enterprise SSDs and smartphone memory.

The company expects the product to be available in the first half of 2026 after customer validation.

Grab Faces Fare Glitch

Singapore-based rideshare company Grab recently experienced a technical glitch that caused the quoted prices for short rides in its app to exceed S$1,000 ($780). Given Singapore's relatively small size, these fares were extremely high and unreasonable. The company attributed the issue to a "misconfigured fee" and resolved the problem within 20 minutes.

India Bans Online Money Games

India's parliament recently passed a bill banning all games and online services that involve the chance to win or lose real money. The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill targets "online money games," which include certain card games and fantasy sports platforms.

The government claims these platforms have caused widespread harm, leading to financial losses, addiction, and even tragic cases of suicide. The ban aims to distinguish between constructive digital recreation and gambling or betting activities that exploit users with false promises of profit.

Japanese Developers Move Away from Big Tech Payment Systems

Japanese mobile game developers are increasingly adopting their own payment systems to avoid the high commissions charged by Apple and Google. Research by Kyodo News found that 11 out of 16 Japanese developers among the top 30 games on local app store charts now operate their own payment services.

This shift comes as Japan prepares to implement a law that will reduce Big Tech's dominance in app stores, set to take effect in December. The research suggests that developers are proactively seeking cheaper alternatives to maintain control over their revenue streams.

Australian University Tracks Student Protesters via Wi-Fi Data

University of Melbourne and Wi-Fi Location Data Controversy

In a recent incident, the University of Melbourne in Australia was found to have used Wi-Fi location data to identify students involved in a protest. This action took place during a sit-in protest in July 2024. According to a report by the state of Victoria’s Office of the Information Commissioner, the university directed protestors to leave the building they occupied and warned those who remained could face suspension, disciplinary action, or be reported to the police.

The report highlighted that 22 individuals chose to stay, and the university used both CCTV and Wi-Fi location data to identify them. While the use of CCTV was not considered a privacy breach, the use of Wi-Fi location data raised concerns. The Information Commissioner noted that individuals were not aware of how their Wi-Fi data was being collected or used, which meant they couldn’t make an informed decision about using the Wi-Fi network during the protest.

Following the investigation, the university revised its policies regarding the use of location data. As a result, the Office of the Information Commissioner decided not to issue a formal compliance notice but will continue to monitor the university to ensure it adheres to its new policies.

Fastly Explores Expansion into Asia

Content delivery network (CDN) service provider Fastly is exploring ways to expand its services into Asia. Like other CDN providers, Fastly deploys its infrastructure close to the network edge to bring data closer to consumers. However, Fastly prefers fewer, more substantial infrastructure deployments compared to its competitors.

CEO Kip Compton recently stated that expanding into Asia presents challenges due to the large populations in countries like India and Indonesia, where infrastructure is limited. He also mentioned that many Indian users still rely on phones with small screens, which reduces the demand for high-bandwidth streaming. However, he predicts that as more capable phones become available, data usage across Asia will increase significantly.

Fastly is currently researching how to adapt its CDN to meet these evolving needs, ensuring it can deliver efficient and effective services to Asian markets.

SK Hynix Unveils 321-Layer SSDs

South Korean memory manufacturer SK Hynix has announced the mass production of 321-layer QLC NAND chips, marking a significant advancement in storage technology. This is the first time a company has produced QLC NAND with over 300 layers, offering improved performance and efficiency.

According to SK Hynix, the new memory technology enhances write performance by up to 56% and read speeds by 18%, while also improving energy efficiency. These chips will initially be used in 2TB SSDs for personal computers before being integrated into enterprise SSDs and smartphone memory.

The company expects the product to be available in the first half of 2026 after customer validation.

Grab Faces Fare Glitch

Singapore-based rideshare company Grab recently experienced a technical glitch that caused the quoted prices for short rides in its app to exceed S$1,000 ($780). Given Singapore's relatively small size, these fares were extremely high and unreasonable. The company attributed the issue to a "misconfigured fee" and resolved the problem within 20 minutes.

India Bans Online Money Games

India's parliament recently passed a bill banning all games and online services that involve the chance to win or lose real money. The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill targets "online money games," which include certain card games and fantasy sports platforms.

The government claims these platforms have caused widespread harm, leading to financial losses, addiction, and even tragic cases of suicide. The ban aims to distinguish between constructive digital recreation and gambling or betting activities that exploit users with false promises of profit.

Japanese Developers Move Away from Big Tech Payment Systems

Japanese mobile game developers are increasingly adopting their own payment systems to avoid the high commissions charged by Apple and Google. Research by Kyodo News found that 11 out of 16 Japanese developers among the top 30 games on local app store charts now operate their own payment services.

This shift comes as Japan prepares to implement a law that will reduce Big Tech's dominance in app stores, set to take effect in December. The research suggests that developers are proactively seeking cheaper alternatives to maintain control over their revenue streams.

Astro Bot Creator Threatens Legal Battle With Sony Over Series Control

The Rise of Astro Bot and the Battle for Creative Control

Sony has long been known for its iconic gaming franchises, but few could have predicted the sudden success of Astro Bot. This platformer, developed by Team Asobi, captured the hearts of gamers worldwide, earning critical acclaim and a multitude of awards. Its popularity was unexpected, yet undeniable. With such a hit on their hands, it's no surprise that Sony is looking to capitalize on the franchise’s potential.

However, the game's director has made it clear that creative integrity will not be compromised. In a recent interview, Nicolas Doucet, the Creative Director of Astro Bot, emphasized that the team is prepared to stand up for their vision if necessary. This assurance has brought relief to fans who worry about corporate interference in a game that has already proven to be a standout title.

Post-Launch Support Shows Commitment

One of the most impressive aspects of Astro Bot has been its post-launch support. Team Asobi has consistently delivered free DLC content, keeping the game fresh and engaging for players. Unlike many other titles that shift toward live-service models, Astro Bot has maintained its original design and philosophy. Sony has not pressured the developers to transform the game into something it was never intended to be.

This approach has helped maintain the game’s charm and appeal. Fans appreciate the fact that the developers are focused on enhancing the experience rather than monetizing it through unnecessary additions. It also shows that Sony is willing to trust the team’s judgment when it comes to the direction of the game.

Balancing Creativity and Corporate Goals

In a new interview with the Financial Times, Doucet discussed the delicate balance between Team Asobi’s creative identity and Sony’s broader ambitions. He mentioned that if the creative side felt marginalized or restricted, the team would address the issue directly. This kind of transparency is reassuring, especially given the history of some studios being forced to alter their creative vision under corporate pressure.

Doucet’s comments suggest that the studio is determined to protect its artistic freedom. This is particularly relevant if a sequel to Astro Bot is in the works. Sony’s president has already hinted at the possibility of a follow-up, which makes it even more important for the developers to retain control over the project.

What Comes Next for Astro Bot?

Despite the excitement surrounding the franchise, Sony has yet to officially announce whether a sequel or additional free DLC is in the pipeline. However, many believe that more content is likely on the way. Given the positive reception of the game, it’s hard to imagine Sony letting the IP fade away.

The company has already described Astro Bot as an "emerging IP," which signals that they see long-term potential in the franchise. This designation means that we can expect to see more from Astro Bot in the future, whether through sequels, spin-offs, or expanded content.

A Delicate Balance

While the prospect of more Astro Bot content is exciting, there is a concern that Sony might try to turn the franchise into a live-service model. That approach could alienate fans who value the game’s original design and focus on quality over quantity. It’s crucial that the developers continue to advocate for their vision, ensuring that the game remains true to its roots.

For now, the relationship between Team Asobi and Sony seems to be working. Both parties appear to be committed to maintaining the game’s creative integrity while exploring new opportunities. If this balance continues, Astro Bot could become one of Sony’s most beloved and enduring franchises.

Astro Bot Creator Threatens Legal Battle With Sony Over Series Control

The Rise of Astro Bot and the Battle for Creative Control

Sony has long been known for its iconic gaming franchises, but few could have predicted the sudden success of Astro Bot. This platformer, developed by Team Asobi, captured the hearts of gamers worldwide, earning critical acclaim and a multitude of awards. Its popularity was unexpected, yet undeniable. With such a hit on their hands, it's no surprise that Sony is looking to capitalize on the franchise’s potential.

However, the game's director has made it clear that creative integrity will not be compromised. In a recent interview, Nicolas Doucet, the Creative Director of Astro Bot, emphasized that the team is prepared to stand up for their vision if necessary. This assurance has brought relief to fans who worry about corporate interference in a game that has already proven to be a standout title.

Post-Launch Support Shows Commitment

One of the most impressive aspects of Astro Bot has been its post-launch support. Team Asobi has consistently delivered free DLC content, keeping the game fresh and engaging for players. Unlike many other titles that shift toward live-service models, Astro Bot has maintained its original design and philosophy. Sony has not pressured the developers to transform the game into something it was never intended to be.

This approach has helped maintain the game’s charm and appeal. Fans appreciate the fact that the developers are focused on enhancing the experience rather than monetizing it through unnecessary additions. It also shows that Sony is willing to trust the team’s judgment when it comes to the direction of the game.

Balancing Creativity and Corporate Goals

In a new interview with the Financial Times, Doucet discussed the delicate balance between Team Asobi’s creative identity and Sony’s broader ambitions. He mentioned that if the creative side felt marginalized or restricted, the team would address the issue directly. This kind of transparency is reassuring, especially given the history of some studios being forced to alter their creative vision under corporate pressure.

Doucet’s comments suggest that the studio is determined to protect its artistic freedom. This is particularly relevant if a sequel to Astro Bot is in the works. Sony’s president has already hinted at the possibility of a follow-up, which makes it even more important for the developers to retain control over the project.

What Comes Next for Astro Bot?

Despite the excitement surrounding the franchise, Sony has yet to officially announce whether a sequel or additional free DLC is in the pipeline. However, many believe that more content is likely on the way. Given the positive reception of the game, it’s hard to imagine Sony letting the IP fade away.

The company has already described Astro Bot as an "emerging IP," which signals that they see long-term potential in the franchise. This designation means that we can expect to see more from Astro Bot in the future, whether through sequels, spin-offs, or expanded content.

A Delicate Balance

While the prospect of more Astro Bot content is exciting, there is a concern that Sony might try to turn the franchise into a live-service model. That approach could alienate fans who value the game’s original design and focus on quality over quantity. It’s crucial that the developers continue to advocate for their vision, ensuring that the game remains true to its roots.

For now, the relationship between Team Asobi and Sony seems to be working. Both parties appear to be committed to maintaining the game’s creative integrity while exploring new opportunities. If this balance continues, Astro Bot could become one of Sony’s most beloved and enduring franchises.

Ole Miss 2025: New ticketing and Grove setup changes

OXFORD, Miss. (WJTV) - The 2025 Ole Miss football season is almost here, and there are some key changes to the Grove and to Vaught-Hemingway Stadium.

Tap-and-Go Ticketing

Starting this season, all mobile tickets will use NFC-enabled technology. NFC tickets use "Tap and Go" for entry into athletic venues. Fans can simply add their ticket to their wallet to use on gameday and are strongly encouraged to add them in advance of arriving on campus.Click herefor more information.

New Grove Setup Schedule

There are no changes to the traditional gameday experience in The Grove nor the choices for setting up. Fans can choose to put up their own tent or purchase a setup for their preferred vendor.Timelines have been adjustedto allow for earlier, safer and more organized planning for all parties:

Key Friday Grove Times

• 2-3 p.m. – Registered student organizations and university departments set up
• 3-4:30 p.m. – Vendors set up their customers' tents
• 5:30 p.m. – Grove closes
• 6 p.m. – Grove opens for general public

Lane Kiffin's new challenge: Rebuilding Ole Miss with just four returning starters

No Field Rushes

In order to further avoid safety issues andincreased SEC penalties, stronger measures are being implemented to ensure that field rushes no longer occur at Vaught-Hemingway. Entering the playing field is strictly prohibited, and those found to be violators are subject to arrest. According to the university, violators could also be denied ticket privileges for the current and next season, including but not limited to student, season and single-game tickets.

Limited Single-Game Tickets Available

Limited quantities of single-game tickets for matchups against Georgia State, Arkansas, Tulane, Washington State, South Carolina and The Citadel still remain. Head toOleMissTix.comfor tickets

Can't Use Your Tickets?

If you can't make it to the game, get your ticket to someone who can!Click herefor information on how to transfer your tickets to another Rebel fan. You can alsosell your ticketon SeatGeek, the official fan-to-fan ticket marketplace of Ole Miss Athletics.

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Rocco Becht: 'Never a doubt' as Iowa State escapes Ireland opener

For Iowa State quarterback Rocco Becht, Saturday's win overseas was about more than just execution. It was about trust.

Asked what has made the Cyclones so consistent in close finishes over the last two seasons, Becht pointed to culture. "I think it's the culture that we have, the connectedness and togetherness that we have as a team, and the confidence that we have in each other," he said. "There's never a doubt in the game when we're down, or when we're up, that we're not going to win. I think everyone has a sense of urgency that we're going to win this game or make the big play that needs to be made."

The sophomore quarterback said head coach Matt Campbell set the tone late, choosing to run out the clock rather than risk turnovers. "Credit to coach Campbell of just taking the win, and just kneeling it down and understanding, you know, get the win and get out of here," Becht explained.

It wasn't easy. Rain in the first half made it difficult to hold onto the football. "With the rain coming down, it was pretty hard to keep a good grip on it," Becht admitted. But the game plan gave him a chance to settle in. "We did a really good job of putting out plays that were short passes for me to get comfortable in the game."

Looking ahead, Becht emphasized that the offense must improve. "Honestly, I have to do a better job of not letting that happen because I want to win by more than that and not have the defense pull up a bunch of stops," he said. "As an offense, like I said, we have to collectively get better and not be in these positions come further in the season."

Iowa State returns home to face South Dakota next Saturday at 3:30 p.m. ET. The game will be broadcast on Fox.

MORE COLLEGE FOOTBALL NEWS:

• Why Jeremiah Smith sees Julian Sayin as ideal replacement for Will Howard at QB for Ohio State
• Northwestern, Pat Fitzgerald reach settlement in wrongful termination case
• South Carolina makes major announcement before college football season
• Malachi Nelson named UTEP's starting QB after turbulent journey
• National Championship contenders: Ten CFB programs ready to seize the crown

Steph Curry's Next Big Move? Google's Performance Advisor

Curry with the three!

If you've ever watched a Steph Curry (Warriors) game, then you know he's consistent in hitting those game-winning shots from the three-point line. Well, now the legend that is Stephen Curry is using those same skills as a four-time NBA champion and two-time MVP to team up with Google.

The Golden State Warriors point guard hasSigned a multi-year partnership dealworking with the tech giant, taking on a new role as Google’s Performance Advisor, and I've got to say it's one of the coolest athlete-brand partnerships we've seen in a while.

This collaboration spans across Google Health, Google Pixel, and Google Cloud, giving him a seat at the table on everything from health innovations to the next Pixel release. "As a long-time Warriors fan, I've watched Stephen Curry's exceptional talent on the court. To now partner with him and infuse that same level of excellence into our products is a game-changer for Google and, even more importantly, for our users,"saidRishi Chandra, Google GM/VP of Health.

As part of this partnership, Curry and his entire team are fully committed to Pixel — from phones and watches to earbuds — incorporating Google technology into their workouts and daily routines (which is a major achievement in an Apple world). They are using Pixel phones for communication and daily tasks, Pixel Watches to monitor performance metrics and active lifestyles, and Pixel Buds for audio needs. The integration also extends to productivity tools, with Curry's team using Gemini and Workspace applications to manage their demanding schedules.

Rick Osterloh, SVP of Platforms & Devices at Google,emphasized the hands-on nature of this collaboration, noting that, "This hands-on work has already begun, with Stephen and his team of experts working with our health experts... giving us incredibly valuable feedback." The feedback loop between Curry's real-world athletic demands and Google's product development is already shaping how Google thinks about what's next.

For those who have been following the AI scene, this partnership goes even further with Curry's also tapping into Google Cloud's new AI Basketball Coach, breaking down shooting accuracy and training tips for the next generation of basketball players. Now, if that's not a sign of the times (and future), we don't know what is. The technology powered by Gemini 2.5 Pro provides real-time shot feedback that could change the way young basketball players train.

At Curry's youth training camp, kids got a first look at the new technology, where Google demonstrated the AI Basketball Coach capabilities. These young athletes had their shots analyzed with biomechanical analysis - and got some hands-on time with Pixel devices.

No. 18 Texas Tech Beats Santa Clara 2-1 on the Road

Texas Tech defeated the Santa Clara Broncos 2-1 on Thursday night, fueled by two goals in the game's first four minutes. Goals from Peyton Parsons and Taylor Zdrojewski, along with a determined defense, including five saves from Faith Nguyen, were all the Red Raiders needed to move to 3-0 on the season and secure a solid road win.

This is a veteran team with a bunch of feisty young players wanting to prove themselves," said Texas Tech head coach Tom Stone after the game. "That's a really good combination, and we just had a great start. There's no team coached by Jerry Smith that's not going to have something to say in the second half. So they took it to us pretty good, and that's when we found out how tough our team is. We dug in, we played great defense, we cleared balls, our marking in the box was excellent, and grinded out the win.

Texas Tech Stat Leaders

Taylor Zdrojewski – 7 shots, 2 SOG, 1 G, 73 min

Peyton Parsons – 2 shots, 2 SOG, 1 G, 1 A, 84 min

Alana Harry – 2 shots, 1 SOG, 1 A, 84 min

Faith Nguyen – 1 GA, 5 SV, 90 min

How It Happened

There are fast starts and then there is scoring in the game's opening 20 seconds, which is exactly what Texas Tech did. Before Santa Clara could even get a breath, Macy Blackburn sent a ball up to Alana Harry, who pushed one across the front of goal to the foot of Peyton Parsons, and it was 1-0 with 17 seconds showing on the clock.

We just weren't ready for their fast start," said Santa Clara head coach Jerry Smith. "I think that's about the fastest goal we've probably ever conceded in Santa Clara women's soccer history. I think it was like 15 seconds. Credit to Texas Tech; they're a good team, an NCAA tournament team, and a top 20 team, and well-coached, and with a lot of good players...they're No. 16 up front, she's someone I can see why she scores so many goals. She's really hard to deal with.

No. 16, Zdrojewski, who was causing trouble for the Broncos early, scored her fourth goal of the season only minutes later at the 3:35 mark. The reigning Big 12 Offensive Player of the Week almost scored just seconds earlier after her shot hit the crossbar, but she wasn't denied. She boxed out the Bronco defender, and Kate Leibel set her up perfectly to turn and BURN one off her left foot into the net. It was 2-0, just like that.

We were awesome on the ball and the ball was getting moved around quickly," said Coach Stone. "We've got a lot of speed, so we just took advantage of the momentum that we created from the opening whistle and before they knew it we were up 2-0, they had to chase the game. Which helped us get to halftime in one piece as well, probably should have been up 3, but it's soccer.

As you would expect from a program rich in history like Santa Clara, the Broncos eventually settled in and put pressure on the Red Raiders' backline a few times to end the half. Most dangerously in the 35th minute when Nguyen made a neat kick save after Mailan Orzoco got free on the end line for a shot.

Freshman Raleigh Greason was a menace all game for Tech. Causing the Broncos fits throughout with her speed, she nearly got her second goal of the season near the end of the first half but the shot was deflecting wide of goal. It was the last shot attempt for either team of the half and the score held at 2-0 Texas Tech headed to the half.

As Coach Stone noted in the opening, however, a team coached by Jerry Smith (in his 39th season with the team) is going to adjust and come out fighting in the second half. That's exactly what they did, scoring three minutes into the half after Nguyen made a great save on the initial shot attempt but Adee Goulden snuck in to tap it in on the rebound.

From there, both teams settled in a bit and had their chances. Santa Clara was the aggressor trying to find the equalizer, but the Red Raiders dug in their heels and refused to let it happen. McCartney and Scursenski both were putting their bodies on the line to block shots in the middle, Bahr was taking on the Broncos' top threat one-on-one with the fearlessness she is known for, and Nguyen was making the saves when called upon.

Due to injuries forcing some key players to miss last season, plus new additions via transfers and freshmen, it's a team that hasn't been in the fire together like this yet and they came out with the win. Against a true soccer program (just go ahead and hop over to the preview article)hereif you aren't aware of Santa Clara's history.

That back line hasn't played together until this season and this midfield group hasn't played together in two years, that's a pretty good effort to show that we could close out a game against a team that had a lot of momentum. I couldn't be happier for them," said Coach Stone. "Early season wins. We're going to be better in a month, Santa Clara's going to be better in a month, but for now, you know, we get out of here with a win and we couldn't be happier about it.

Next Up: San Francisco on Sunday

Texas Tech will make the short drive to San Francisco, California to play the University of San Francisco Dons on Sunday at 11 am PT / 1 pm CT. Fans can stream the game on ESPN+.

We've got to start getting the ones who are going to play a lot of minutes excited for Sunday because we're going to rely on our bench quite a bit in that game, and they have to be ready," said Stone. DJ and Katie, Munger and Caitlin [Athletic Training + Strength & Conditioning staff], this is their Super Bowl. Now, after the game, they have to get us right for Sunday. Thankfully, today is Thursday, and we have a few days left, but that's everything. Now, can we regroup physically and be ready to play a good San Francisco team.

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The Suzuki DR-Z4S Is The Japanese Dual-Sport Motorcycle That Can Do It All

The rise in popularity of dual-purpose motorcycles has pushed manufacturers to develop ever more capable motorcycles. Today, we are truly spoiled for choice when it comes to adventure and dual-sport motorcycles. Pretty much every manufacturer has at least one great option on the books, some have several that cater to different kinds of riders.

What bike you choose will essentially come down to what kind of riding you really want to do. For riders looking for a bike that can handle dirt, but want to cover long distances on the road, a modern adventure bike certainly makes a lot of sense. For those looking to spend a little more time off-road, adual-sportwill be the better option. If you are after a Japanese dual-sport that can really do it all, we feel this is by far the best choice.

To give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced fromSuzuki Cycles.Whereas the opinions are our own.

The Suzuki DR-Z4S Can Do It All

MSRP: $8,999

If you want the best tool for a job, it is pretty rare that that tool is cheap. The one thing theSuzukiDR-Z4S is not, it's cheap. If you want a bike that can truly do it all, the asking price is $9k. Saying yes to this is the same as saying no to several other equally good options, including a handful of ADVs. Suffice to say, this is something of a niche product that will only appeal to a certain kind of buyer. The other marginally less versatile Japanese dual-sports are certainly worth a look.

TheKawasaki KLX300It is almost half the price of the DR-Z4S, but it is not half the motorcycle. Off-road, it is perfectly capable and most riders won’t ever find its limits there, but its lack of top-end power will be felt on the road. It is an old platform, so it doesn’t get any of the sophisticated electronics you will find on the new Suzuki, but the same could be said for just about any of the other Japanese competitors.

Honda offers two very different options that sit on either side of the DR-Z4S. First, we have the CRF300 Rally. It just got a much-needed update to its suspension, which should make it a fair bit better off-road. On-road, it is going to be one of the better options thanks to the added wind protection and relative – we are talking about dual-sports here – comfort. Like the Kawasaki, it hasn't got much in the way of power, and that is a limiting factor, especially if you plan on using the bike for extended highway runs.

What is not down on power is Honda's other option. The CRF450RL is very much a dirt bike with lights. Service intervals are going to be very short as a result, but they will certainly be a little more durable than the more exotic European rivals. Long rides on the road are not going to be ideal due to the glaring lack of comfort, but off-road it will certainly come into its own. It is a fair bit more expensive than the DR-Z4S, but you will get what you pay for in off-road capability.

Rivals

• Kawasaki KLX300
• Honda CRF300 Rally
• Honda CRF450RL

The New DR-Z4S Has A Modern Single

Power: 38 Horsepower

While the same architecture remains, this is a thoroughly reworked engine. The cylinder head has been completely redesigned and, for the very first time, it gets fuel-injection. In terms of power, there is not much difference between this and the old bike. 38 horsepower is ample for both on- and off-road use, and is also more than enough to get up to, and maintain highway speed.

Engine Specifications

The most critical part is that this engine is nowEuro5+Compliant. This means that this is now a global model again, and should be around for several years to come. With this in mind, the price increase is certainly quite understandable, but one frustration remains. The decision to retain the old bikes' 5-speed transmission is hard to understand, and reeks of cost-cutting.

The DR-Z4S Is A Feature-Rich Dual-Sport

The First Japanese Dual-Sport To Embrace Tech

In the past, Japanese dual-sports have traditionally been simple machines, almost to a fault. All that has changed with the latest DR-Z4S: it gets a ride-by-wire throttle, ride modes, switchable traction control, and switchable ABS. ABS is mandatory in several other countries, so that much was always to be expected, but the rest came as something of a surprise. None of the Japanese competitions offer these features. The only bike competing in this more streetable class is theKTM 390 Enduro R. It offers a lot of value, but the quality gap is clearly visible from a distance and represents a very different proposition. A more realistic comparison actually comes from the ADV world in the form of the Honda Transalp, which only costs $1k more, and will always be worth the extra investment for those looking for a more "travel-ready" all-around motorcycle.

Chassis, Suspension, and Weight Specifications

A defining feature of the old DR-Z was its capable, if outdated, suspension. The new DR-Z gets a big upgrade in this department with a fully adjustable USD KYB fork up front and an adjustable rear shock at the rear. The steel perimeter frame is a brand-new design, and while the new bike is a little heavier thanks to all those electronics, it is still light enough to remain competitive. That said, this is still something of a niche offering. For those that really want a genuinely reliable dual-sport which can handle the daily commute, weekend trips out of town, and some serious off-roading, this is ideal. But, for the luxury of owning a bike that can do all that, you end up paying for it, so much that it becomes hard to justify the outlay. Especially when you can buy an equally capable dual-sport bike and a small commuter for around the same amount of money.

Features

• Switchable ABS
• Traction control
• Ride modes
• LED lighting

Fatma Hassan Alremaihi on the Doha Film Institute at 15 and How the Upcoming Doha Film Festival Will Strengthen 'Qatar's Role as a Cultural Leader'

The Doha Film Institute, which drives Qatar's film production ambitions, has come a long way over the past 15 years under the leadership of Fatma Hassan Alremaihi.

Just as the tiny Arab state, rich in oil and gas, diversifies from the energy sector into cultural, media, and entertainment - as attested by broadcaster Al Jazeera and the 2022 FIFA World Cup soccer tournament - the DFI has steadily grown into a crucial cornerstone of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region film industry.

Born and raised in Doha, Alremaihi graduated from Qatar University with a degree in English literature. She has been part of the DFI's team since joining in 2009 as an advisor to the first edition of the now-canceled Doha Tribeca Film Festival. A mother of four, she was subsequently instrumental in launching the Ajyal Film Festival for children involving hundreds of kids as jurors, as well as its Qumra event, dedicated to supporting and guiding first and second works mostly by Arab directors. Alremaihi has also led the effort behind turning the DFI's year-round film funding initiatives into the region's pre-eminent indie industry driver.

More recently, Alremaihi has taken the lead in launching the upcoming Doha Film Festival, which will take place from November 20 to 28 and transform the Ajyal festival into a more ambitious international event for a wider audience.

Alremaihi - who will be honored during the Venice Film Festival withThe Shiro CoprHer 2025 Achievement in International Film Award - talked about her vision behind the DFI and the launch of the Doha Film Festival, which she calls "the next step in Qatar's journey of cultural leadership."

As DFI celebrates 15 years, what do you consider to be the main milestones?

Over the past 15 years, DFI has helped usher in a golden age for Arab cinema. We've supported over 950 films from 75 countries, earning 1,600 festival selections and over 600 awards, including 10 Oscar nominations.

DFI has been a catalyst in developing a thriving and sustainable film industry in the broader Middle East region and beyond, championing important films and contributing to a more nuanced global storytelling landscape.

But more importantly, we have amplified stories that reflect the richness, complexity and truth of underrepresented voices - stories that might never have found their place on the global stage without this support. We have created a comprehensive ecosystem for filmmakers, championed new voices and remained committed to cinema as a powerful form of cultural expression and dialogue.

How are the DFI's efforts to promote filmmaking from Qatar yielding results?

DFI takes a sustainable approach to create compelling original content in Qatar, which will further enhance the development of the creative industries and position our talent alongside their global peers.

Qatar's film industry has shown remarkable growth, with nearly 60% of emerging filmmakers being talented young women, who are changing the face of modern cinema, and Qatari stories are now reaching audiences at festivals across the globe. What's most inspiring is seeing young Qatari filmmakers - particularly women - present their work globally with confidence and clarity.

What makes their achievements special is that they represent more than just individual success stories - they are helping shift global perceptions about our region. Our focus has always been on nurturing a sustainable, creative ecosystem where everyone can thrive, providing equal opportunities that allow talent to naturally rise.

Are there some DFI-supported films that you are particularly proud of?

It's impossible to choose - every film we support, from shorts to features, matters deeply to us. Each project contributes to a more balanced and inclusive global film landscape and will impact our societies for years to come.

We believe in promoting stories that explore overlooked perspectives - whether they come from Qatar, the Arab world or beyond. For us, success is not just in the awards, but in providing a platform for voices that reflect the diversity of human experience and challenge dominant narratives that often define global cinema.

What role does Qumra play in this effort?

Qumra is a rare platform globally dedicated to supporting first- and second-time filmmakers with direct access to global film experts and cinema celebrities. It connects DFI's local, regional and international grantees and co-financed projects, as well as year-round education and development participants, to leading industry professionals and cinema masters to boost the life cycle of film projects towards success.

As the most important talent platform for Arab cinema, Qumra brings together elements of a talent lab and workshop, a traditional film festival and creative mentorship, offering a springboard for Arab and international projects. To date, it has supported over 265 feature films, 106 short films and 42 series - many of which have gone on to screen at top festivals worldwide. Qumra maintains its strong commitment to nurturing local talent to drive sustainable growth by providing the opportunity to grow and learn from seasoned professionals who can significantly influence the outcome of their projects.

It serves as a comprehensive platform, championing the regional film industry and representing Qatar's role in empowering a new generation of film professionals. The real strength of Qumra lies in its ongoing impact: long-term industry relationships, global exposure and a growing creative network dedicated to elevating bold new voices.

What prompted you and the DFI team to reconceive Ajyal?

As Qatar's cultural presence expands and the regional film landscape matures, we saw an opportunity to elevate our festival offering. Doha Film Festival (DFF) builds on Ajyal's success but introduces broader industry engagement, global programming and new pathways for cultural exchange.

It's an evolution of DFI and Qatar's cinematic journey, not a departure. DFF allows us to better serve both the creative community and our audiences, while maintaining our core mission of supporting authentic storytelling and fostering cultural understanding.

It will continue to be a vital platform for self-expression, empowering creatives from across the region and beyond, nurturing regional talent and amplifying important voices that might otherwise remain unheard to further enrich the global film landscape. It is the next step in Qatar's journey of cultural leadership, creating opportunities for dialogue that will benefit not just our region but the entire global film community.

What is the basic difference between Ajyal and the reimagined Doha Film Festival?

Ajyal focused on youth engagement and community. DFF carries forward that spirit but expands it - becoming a global stage for cinema that bridges artistry, education and industry.

It introduces official competitions, international juries and broader programming, while still nurturing the same values of self-expression, cross-cultural dialogue and purpose-driven storytelling.

This evolution reflects who we've become. Ajyal laid the groundwork for a deeply engaged film culture. DFF amplifies that spirit on a larger scale in harmony with DFI's mission of supporting authentic storytelling, inspiring new perspectives and fostering cultural understanding.

How is the Doha Film Festival going to complement what the DFI does in an organic way?

DFF is the next chapter in DFI's mission to amplify unheard voices, foster cultural dialogue and spotlight Arab cinema on the global stage. DFF represents the progress of Qatar's film ecosystem. It brings international talent to Qatar, showcases our stories, and creates meaningful platforms for new voices to emerge.

We are creating an environment where Arab cinema can flourish and reach global audiences with our distinctive voice. With its blend of innovation, authenticity and ambition, DFF strengthens Qatar's role as a cultural leader and reinforces DFI's ongoing commitment to shaping the future of cinema in the region and beyond.

 

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Microsoft puts AI at the forefront of NFL renewal

The NFL of American football has expanded its technology partnership with Microsoft in a multi-year agreement, with the software giant's AI products being a key component of the renewal.

As the league's sideline viewing partner, the tech firm will integrate its AI business solutions and cloud and AI platforms into game days, enabling coaches and players to access and analyze game insights and performance in real time.

The NFL's Sideline Viewing System for every team has been upgraded with more than 2,500 Microsoft Surface Copilot+ PCs.

Coaches and players have access to a new feature built with GitHub Copilot to filter plays based on different criteria.

Microsoft's Surface tablet has had an exclusive presence on NFL sidelines since 2013. The last extension between the two partieswas signed in 2020.

The NFL and Microsoft are also working to use AI to support roles such as game operations managers.

This includes a Copilot-powered game day operations dashboard to track and categorize key game day incidents each year, such as weather delays or technical equipment issues, that can impact overall operations each week, to improve future decision making.

Gary Brantley, Chief Information Officer of the NFL, said: "We are entering a new era of innovation at the NFL through our collaboration with Microsoft to deploy AI across key areas of the business."

Enhancing the league is a responsibility we take seriously, and Microsoft has been a trusted sideline technology partner for over a decade. With Microsoft's AI technologies, including Copilot, there are tremendous opportunities to elevate the gameday experience for our clubs and deliver an even more compelling product to our fans.

Separately, Microsoft is also integrating Azure AI video tools during individual clubs' practice sessions to help with reviewing coaching, evaluations, and player injury assessments.

Bryson Gordon, corporate vice president of global marketing at Microsoft, added: "The NFL and Microsoft partnership is entering a new era, and we are proud that the league is once again placing its trust in Microsoft to bring AI to the NFL."

Extending our work together is more than just a football story; it's a blueprint for transformation. Whether you're preparing for the championship or running a global enterprise, the principles are the same: insights matter, preparation is essential, and the ability to act quickly is critical.

Some clubs, such as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, are already using Copilot to help with marketing, promotion efforts, and fan engagement.

Microsoft's initial five-year deal with the league was understood to be worth $400 million.

"Microsoft puts AI at the forefront of NFL renewal" was originally created and published bySportcal, a The Shiro Coprowned brand.

 

The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site.

ESPN's FPI Predicts Every Game on Georgia Tech's 2025 Schedule

The time has come for predictions.

Georgia Tech is seven days away from its season opener against Colorado, and with fall camp completed, the Yellow Jackets are set to begin preparing to face Deion Sanders' team in Boulder.

The Yellow Jackets return a good mixture of veteran talent while also adding in freshmen from one of the best recruiting classes in program history. They supplemented thattalent in the transfer portalwith veteran additions in the winter and spring transfer windows as well, and that has fans and analysts alike feeling optimistic that Georgia Tech will be atop-half team in the ACCThis season. Can they be something more?

ESPN uses its FPI (Football Power Index) as an advanced analytical model to analyze matchups and predict outcomes. In ESPN's own words: "FPI is a predictive rating system designed to measure team strength and project future performance. The ultimate goal of FPI is not to rank teams from 1 to 128; rather, it is to correctly predict games and season outcomes. If Vegas ever published the power rankings it uses to set its lines, they would likely look very similar to FPI."

Here is how FPI sees Georgia Tech's season playing out.

Game 1 at Colorado: FPI gives Colorado a 53% chance to win this game (0-1, 0-0 ACC)

FPI sees this as a close game, like I do, but it has Colorado coming out on top at home against the Yellow Jackets.

This is a fascinating game. Georgia Tech is opening as an underdog on the road against the Buffaloes (who have yet to name their starting quarterback), but this is not going to be an easy game. Colorado led the Big 12 in sacks last season and their defensive line should be pretty good. With Georgia Tech introducing some new starters along the offensive line, that could be a favorable matchup for Colorado.

I think Georgia Tech wins, but FPI disagrees.

Game 2 vs Gardner-Webb: FPI gives Georgia Tech a 99% chance to win this game (1-1, 0-0)

Not much to say about this game other than Georgia Tech will be a large favorite and should win comfortably.

Game 3 vs Clemson: FPI gives Clemson a 65% chance to win this game (1-2, 0-1)

This is one of the biggest games not just on Georgia Tech's schedule, but in the ACC in 2025. While both teams face big non-conference matchups in week one, this game will give the winner a huge advantage for the rest of the way in the ACC.

Georgia Tech has not beaten Clemson since 2014, and the only matchup with Brent Key as head coach did not go well for the Yellow Jackets in 2023. The Tigers are the overwhelming favorite in the conference and are projected by many to be national championship contenders.

FPI sees Clemson winning this one and handing Georgia Tech a 1-2 start to the season.

Game 4 vs Temple: FPI gives Georgia Tech a 95% chance to win this game (2-2, 0-1)

Temple is projected to be among the worst FBS teams in the country this season, and this should be an easy victory for the Yellow Jackets.

Game 5 at Wake Forest: FPI gives Georgia Tech a 75% chance to win this game (3-2, 1-1)

Wake Forest is FPI's lowest projected ACC team and they have Georgia Tech able to win decisively on the road.

Jake Dickert is taking over from Dave Clawson in Winston-Salem and has a big job ahead of him. While the Demon Deacons have a favorable schedule, it will be tough for them this year. If the Yellow Jackets can slow down star running back Demond Claiborne, I think they should be able to get a road win against the Demon Deacons.

Game 6 vs Virginia Tech: FPI gives Georgia Tech a 56% chance to win this game (4-2, 2-1)

FPI is higher than most at Virginia Tech, having them rated as the fourth best team in the ACC. However, the home-field advantage should help Georgia Tech and get them a win over the Hokies.

An interesting angle for this game is Hokies head coach Brent Pry being on the hot seat entering the season. After a tough opener against South Carolina, Virginia faces Vanderbilt, Old Dominion, Wofford, NC State, and Wake Forest before they come to Atlanta. There is a chance that Virginia Tech could be 4-2 or 5-1 entering the game and needing this win to help Pry save his job, and I would suspect you get the best effort from them.

Game 7 at Duke: FPI gives Duke a 54% chance to win this game (4-3, 2-2)

This is going to be one of the toughest tests on Georgia Tech's schedule.

Duke is bringing back their entire coaching staff, has one of the best secondaries and defenses in the ACC, and seems to have improved at quarterback with Tulane transfer Darian Mensah. While Georgia Tech is getting a lot of preseason attention as an ACC darkhorse, Duke is not far behind. I think Georgia Tech will win, but FPI sees a close victory for the Blue Devils.

Game 8 vs Syracuse: FPI gives Georgia Tech a 75% chance to win this game (5-3, 3-2)

This is one game that Georgia Tech fans will be looking forward to.

The Orange were the first team to give Georgia Tech a loss last season and the Yellow Jackets will be aiming for revenge. Syracuse is going to be fielding an almost brand new team this season, as Kyle McCord, Trebor Pena, Oronde Gadsden, and LeQuint Alen are all gone from one of the ACC's best offenses. Notre Dame transfer Steve Angeli is taking over for McCord this season.

While Georgia Tech cannot afford to overlook any opponent, I like them matched up against this Syracuse team.

Game 9 at NC State: FPI gives Georgia Tech a 58% chance to win this game (6-3, 4-2)

While the Wolfpack were certainly disappointing this past season, they return a talented QB in CJ Bailey and other talented offensive weapons. On top of that, Raleigh is a very difficult place to play, and there have been plenty of teams to see their dreams go up in smoke there. Georgia Tech will have a difficult time in this game, but FPI likes them to find a way to win on the road.

Game 10 at Boston College: FPI gives Georgia Tech a 57% chance to win this game (7-3, 5-2)

Georgia Tech will have a bye week after their trip to NC State and they will head out for their final road game of the year when they face the Eagles.

Boston College made a bowl game in their first year under former Georgia Tech assistant Bill O'Brien and is looking to do the same in their second year, despite losing key linemen to the NFL. Alabama transfer Dylan Lonergan was named the starting quarterback for BC and he will lead the offense this season.

I think Georgia Tech has a distinct talent advantage in this game, but playing on the road can be tricky.

Game 11 vs Pittsburgh: FPI gives Georgia Tech a 75% chance to win this game (8-3, 6-2)

For their final ACC test of the season, Georgia Tech will host Pittsburgh. The Panthers started last season 7-0, but lost their last six games of the year. Star running back Desmond Reid returns, but can the Panthers be more consistent this season?

Pat Narduzzi has pulled off some late-season upsets before, and Georgia Tech needs to come ready to play in this game. They cannot afford to look ahead to the game against Georgia the week after and need to handle their business.

Game 12 vs Georgia (Mercedes Benz Stadium): FPI gives UGA an 86% chance to win this game (8-4, 6-2)

The biggest game of the year for Georgia Tech will once again take place on Black Friday. The Yellow Jackets brought Georgia to the brink in eight overtimes last season and competed closely against them in 2023. Will this be the year that Georgia Tech ends its losing streak against the Bulldogs? FPI still favors the Bulldogs.

More Georgia Tech Football News:

This article was originally published onwww.si.com/college/georgiatechasESPN's FPI Predicts Every Game on Georgia Tech's 2025 Schedule.

Rising Stars and Veteran Leaders: Who Will Define the Buccaneers This Season

TAMPA, Fla. -The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are coming strong as they enter the 2025 NFL season. Their goal right now is to build on the previous year's success and become a contender for the Super Bowl again.

With that in mind, they are aiming to blend their past strategies and retain their veteran player core as they integrate emerging talent, which seems to be their perfect mix to win this season. That said, with their mix of veteran and new players, who among them is standing out?

The Veteran Backbone

The Buccaneer's veteran core has always been consistent, constantly performing at an elite level. Not only that, but they also provide invaluable experience and leadership on the field, which is an aspect the team will not let go anytime soon. That said, with a variety of experienced players, some stand out in this kind of battlefield.

Mike Evans

Despite being 32 years old, Mike Evans is still competing at a high level as a wide receiver for the Buccaneers, which is of interest to many. He ended his 2024 season in style as he tied Jerry Rice's record by achieving 11 consecutive 1000-yard seasons. With this achievement, there is no doubt that Mike Evans will be inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Not only that, even at this point, Evans is still able to overcome elite cornerbacks and be a reliable threat in the red zone, which is a testament to his skills and experience. However, with him signing another year with the Buccaneers, his new goal is to win the Super Bowl. With him on the team, theTampa Bay Buccaneers oddslook promising and are expected to trend upward from here on out.

Lavonte David

Lavonte David, often called the heart and soul of the Buccaneers, has signed another year with the team, making it his 14th season in the NFL. Despite being almost 30 years old, he is still regarded by his peers as one of the most respected linebackers in the field. David's skills and leadership are not in question, as usual, but his ability to execute Todd Bowles' complex defensive scheme on the fly is nothing to scoff at.

With these in his arsenal, he is still proving to be a force not to be reckoned with on the field, with a career-high of 5.5. With his guidance, it's a relief for that team's young linebackers that they have someone to follow and aspire to.

The Young Guns

With the backdrop of great veteran players in the team, the new talent has something to build their foundation on. However, good foundations are not enough. They also have to have a talent of their own, and luckily, the team has been blessed by a few diamonds in the rough.

Emeka Egbuka

During the 2025 NFL draft, the team made a bold decision to invest their first-round pick in an Ohio State wide receiverEmeka Egbuka. Currently, he is turning heads in the training camp, showing promising skills and talent that will be a huge asset for the team. Egbuka is a very good fit for the team’s offense, offering great route-running and superb athleticism.

With his addition to the offense, Baker Mayfield has a lot to stand on and could even elevate the team’s offense to new heights. Egbuka will be the team’s third option for offense, giving them a new hidden weapon against any team's tight defenses. His greatest success so far? Throwing a touchdown pass against the Steelers.

Bucky Irving

When it comes to running backs, the Buccaneers are no slouch. They often have elite running backs that keep that department running, which also means their workload is often staggering. That said, with Bucky Irving's playmaking ability and versatile skills, the team could give him a little bit more room and tons of workload.

Last season, he served as a relief role for the team, but despite that, he still managed to wow his peers, making his talents impossible to ignore. His ability to create openings and his skill as a receiver have made him a dangerous weapon that the team will deploy in the upcoming season. For bettors, this kind of versatility is exactly what adds intrigue toUpcoming NFL Games and Props, since Irving's performance can influence markets related to rushing yards, receptions, and even touchdowns.

As usual, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are always a good team to study when it comes to team building, and what they're cooking up for the 2025 season is no exception. With the approach of mixing their veteran and new talent, it's going to be more exciting for the fans of the team. At this level, it's a wonder to see if they will be more than just an NFC contender, but also a legit contender for the Super Bowl.

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Alex Brake, James Buchanan take off over York Tech in Rose Bowl

YORK — From the opening kick, James Buchanan took off.

The Rockets blasted off from the launch pad, igniting York Tech 60-13 on Saturday during the York Rose Bowl at Smalls Field. James Buchanan (1-0) dominated in every phase, setting up a 32-0 lead after the first quarter and a 46-0 advantage at halftime.

The matchup between the two last year at the same venue was a 15-13 decision, also in favor of the Rockets. The previous season, they lost. But with the sun shining off their silver trophy, white roses given to each and every veteran who rallied their group, the Mid-Penn Conference Capital representatives left no doubt this time around.

It's also the most points scored by the Rockets since a 50-39 win over Halifax on Sept. 3, 2021.

Being able to score 60 points in one game, that's unheard of for us in past years," said senior running back and middle linebacker Alex Brake. "This is a big moment for us. We have to keep this train rolling into our next game and throughout the season.

THE STARS

The game was thoroughly dictated at the line of scrimmage. James Nicol, Kolton Pensinger, Shawn Fisher, Clayton Gearheart, Jack Johnson and Brock Martin paved the way for 288 rushing yards on 33 total carries for James Buchanan.

Brake led from the stable, gaining 123 yards on seven carries, reaching the end zone four times on runs of 6, 53, 2 and 44 yards.

My big ole' favorite linemen were just taking on every block," Brake said. "There were plays where I wasn't even getting touched. I just saw green grass and headed straight forward.

Christian Pine rushed six times for 41 yards, adding a 6-yard touchdown run and a 2-point conversion run. Hunter Egli had nine carries for 63 yards with a 1-yard touchdown run, while Jakob Mayne and Zach Stoner scored touchdown runs of 2 and 6 yards, respectively.

It wasn't just the offensive side of the ball either. That group of two-way linemen was a bulwark for James Buchanan, holding the Spartans (0-1) to a net gain of just 16 yards through the first half of action.

We've been telling them all offseason that it starts with them. The game is won in the trenches, and that's what they did today," said Rockets coach Cliff Pine. "They won it in the trenches. We've got that big middle guy, James Nicol, the kid's a beast. Three hundred and 50 pounds, 6-foot-4, 350 pounds, he's going to move things out of his way and we're going to run the ball.

York Tech quarterback Cole Bisker returned after suffering a season-ending ACL injury last year. Finishing 13-of-24 for 136 passing yards and a touchdown, and taking an 11-yard keeper late in the third quarter to get on the board, 46-6, he showed flashes of potential after helping the Spartans get out to a 3-1 start last season.

It's a team effort, but Cole had a great game. I think we had nine or 10 dropped balls," said York Tech coach Steven Duvall. "He was on, he had some really good throws. He made good decisions, he was reading the defense well, a lot of maturity from Cole this year. He's really matured a lot, he's one of our team captains, our leaders and I think he showed it today on the field.

HOW IT HAPPENED

James Buchanan didn't miss a beat, scoring 32 points in the first quarter alone. Egli returned the opening kick to the Spartans' 39-yard line, and then five plays later, he was in the end zone on a 1-yard run. With a 2-point conversion by quarterback Josh Kimmel, the Rockets started with an 8-0 lead.

The ensuing drive saw more points on the board, once again from Egli. Two botched snaps saw a scramble in the back of the end zone during an attempted punt, Egli bringing down the ball carrier for a safety and a 10-0 lead after four minutes of play.

Three minutes later, Brake capped a six-play, 37-yard scoring drive with his first of four touchdowns, Pine slamming in the 2-point conversion after — three straight drives on both sides of the ball resulting in points on James Buchanan's totem.

It didn't stop there. Needing 1 yard for a first down, Brake took a handoff 53 yards to the end zone. After a sack from Martin and a blocked punt that was downed at York Tech's 2-yard line with two seconds on the clock, Brake plunged in to carry a 32-0 lead through 12 minutes.

I'll be honest with you, 103.7 said we're going to lack defensively this year. I hope 103.7 watched this game because we're not going to lack defensively," Pine said. "Our guys are hungry on both sides of the ball this year, and we're going to come out with fire and intent every game.

The Spartans gained one first down in the first half, while Stoner and Pine recorded consecutive 6-yard touchdown runs to further extend their lead in the second quarter. James Buchanan never looked back once.

BIG PICTURE

The game was the fourth consecutive season-opening meeting between the two, the Rockets having now won three of them in that time.

For a team that's still searching for a winning record for the first time since 2009, there have been signs of inching closer to that rebuild. In Duvall's first season as head coach of the Spartans, they secured two more wins than the previous year, although one was by forfeit.

York Tech still had a 3-1 start last year despite losing a close game to James Buchanan, and with Bisker back in form, the Spartans hope to recover against Kutztown and Columbia over the next two weeks of their non-conference schedule.

We were getting blown out on both sides of the ball. They won the battle in the trenches on both sides of the ball and we have to be better," Duvall said. "We have to continue to practice and get better. That's the name of the game. We made a lot of mistakes. We'll look at film. We'll let this one set in, we'll get back to it tomorrow in our coaches' meeting, practice on Monday and get ready for Week 2.

York Tech 0-0-6-7 — 13

James Buchanan 32-14-7-7 — 60

First quarter

JB-Hunter Egli 1 run (Josh Kimmel run), 9:22

JB-Egli safety, 7:59

JB-Alex Brake 6 run (Christian Pine run), 5:11

JB-Brake 53 run (Finn Lorson kick), 1:16

JB-Brake 2 run (Lorson kick), 0:00

Second quarter

JB-Zach Stoner 6 run (Lorson kick), 7:11

JB-Pine 6 run (Lorson kick), 0:53

Third quarter

YT-Cole Bisker 11 run (kick failed), 5:34

JB-Brake 44 run (Lorson kick), 3:16

Fourth quarter

YT-Cam Clouser 8 pass from Cole Bisker (Landen Grazuties kick), 9:40

JB-Jakob Mayne 2 run (Lorson kick), 2:52

TEAM STATISTICS

First downs: 9, 7

Rush yards: 33-288, 16-21

Passing: 44, 136

Comp-Att-Int: 2-5-0, 13-26-0

Fumbles-lost: 1-1, 3-1

Points: 1, 5

Penalties: 5-40, 2-10

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING –James Buchanan: Alex Brake 7-123, Christian Pine 6-41, Hunter Egli 9-63, Jakob Mayne 7-48; Zach Stoner 1-6; Briar Hensley 3-7; York Tech: Cole Bisker 7-14, Serge McGill 7-2, Magnus Mitchell 2-5.

PASSING –James Buchanan: Josh Kimmel 2-4-0—44, Stoner 0-1-0—0; York Tech: Bisker 13-24-0—136, Diego Diaz 0-2-0—0.

RECEIVING –James Buchanan: Brock Martin 1-25, Pine 1-19; York Tech: Dominic Quintin 3-56, McGill 5-37, Cam Clouser 3-29, Mikell Gee Jr. 1-18, Marques Parker 1-2.

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Intent on NIL dominance, Texas Tech is college football's most intriguing team of 2025

Continuing its exploration of the unthinkable, UTSA will finish among the 40 best college football teams in the world, and it will feel like a disappointment.

Welcome, Roadrunners, to the real big-time, where every inspirational feel-good story turns into, "What have you done for me lately?"

Texas, the first preseason No. 1 ever to be listed as an underdog in its opening game, will provide plenty of week-in, week-out debate-show content, and maybe even a third consecutive trip to the national semifinals.

This time, though, Arch Manning might be on the field for the biggest play.

RELATED: As College Football Playoff Tinkers with Format, Some Translation is Required

And Texas A&M? With an absolutely loaded offensive backfield, plus a season of adjustment under a promising new coach behind them, the Aggies are poised to make college football history:

For a record 86^thYear in a row, they will end a season utterly convinced they're a year away from greatness.

But none of those schools boasts the most interesting team in the state, nor do they have the potential to make the entire sport rethink a hierarchy that has existed for at least a half-century.

This fall, Texas Tech will either crash a party or fall on its face. It will either show the power of oil money, or remind everyone of its limits. And if it works out like the Red Raiders hope?

The result won't be overturning one playoff bracket.

It will be "disrupting college athletics."

That's how Tech athletic director Kirby Hocutt put it in a Lubbock Avalanche-Journal story this week about the Red Raiders' unprecedented name, image and likeness (NIL) fundraising.

At a luncheon on Thursday, in which Cody Campbell, the oil billionaire chairman of Tech's board of regents, announced that the school's donor group had raised $63.3 million since early 2022, Hocutt compared Tech's goal to that of athletic revolutionaries.

He mentioned Dick Fosbury, the high-jumping innovator of the Fosbury Flop.

He mentioned Steph Curry, the long-range artist who supercharged a 3-point-shooting takeover of the NBA.

They did not wait for permission," Hocutt said, according to the Avalanche-Journal. "They changed the game, and in doing so, they changed the future. And that is what we are doing at Texas Tech today.

That might sound like a funny way to describe the act of paying college football players a lot of money to play college football, but Hocutt isn't wrong when he describes the impact the Red Raiders might have if they are successful.

Part of this is because of the program's history. Tech has enjoyed its share of great moments and outstanding players, but has not been ranked in the final Top 25 of any season in 16 years. The Red RaidersneverHave finished a season in the final Associated Press Top 10.

They're supposed to be fun. They're supposed to occasionally be good enough to make things difficult for the traditional powers, or to provide an all-time highlight like when Graham Harrell and Michael Crabtree beat UT in 2008.

But they're not supposed to compete for championships. Or they weren't supposed to, anyway.

Campbell, a 43-year-old businessman who played offensive line for coach Mike Leach at Tech in the early 2000s, decided to question that conventional wisdom. He made billions of dollars in the oil and gas industry, and helped start a donor group that has invested more than $300 million in facilities upgrades at Tech.

But lots of other schools have big donors, and lots of other programs have fancy new weight rooms. The novelty at Tech is that Campbell and his group are spending huge amounts of money to attract players.

MORE FROM FINGER: In the new college era, will Arch Manning follow family tradition?

His donor group is reported to have $55 million in NIL contracts across all sports at Tech this season. And in football, specifically, the Red Raiders just added the highest-rated transfer class in the country - one featuring 22 players who attended different schools last year.

In other words, they're trying to prove that a program without a track record of high-end success can catch up to the big boys simply by buying its way there. And it just might work.

Last year, the Red Raiders finished 8-5, marking the 15^thThey have failed to win at least nine games in a row. Next week, they will open their season at home against Arkansas-Pine Bluff as the No. 23 team in the country, with a chance to climb much higher.

Iowa State and Kansas State, two teams supposedly top contenders for the Big 12 title, didn't exactly look ready to set the world on fire in their opening game in Ireland on Saturday. And if Tech emerges as the best team in that conference, earning a ticket to the College Football Playoff in the process?

The Red Raiders might find themselves on the same field as the Aggies, or the Longhorns.

Ready to disrupt more than one playoff game.

Without having waited for permission.

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What is changing at Neyland Stadium for Tennessee football's 2025 season

Your cash is no good hereNeyland Stadium.

Tennessee announced that the stadium will go cashless, a change that will apply to all Tennessee athletics venues in the 2025-26 season when purchasing concessions, apparel and more at events. UT also announced other changes, including updated chairbacks, gameday road closures,a new route for The Pride of the Southland, fully functional WiFi and more.

Here are the changes coming to Neyland Stadium:

Fans will lean back less at Neyland Stadium

• Tennessee updated the design of the chairbacks at Neyland Stadium to limit the recline of fans sitting behind the chairbacks.

Neyland Stadium's WiFi is connected

• The stadium WiFi dubbed "RockyTopWiFi" is fully functional throughout the venue, allowing fans to stay connected with more than 100,000 people in a tight area.

How entering Neyland Stadium is changing

• The perimeter around Neyland Stadium has been extended on both the west side and the south end of the stadium. Fans will enter through metal detectors on Phillip Fulmer Way on both the southeast corner and the west side of the stadium.
• Fans can enter and exit the extended perimeter on game day and will be able to use the restrooms located under Ramp 10 in Truly's Tailgate.
• Parking passes will mirror tickets by using a moving barcode on all parking passes instead of a QR code. Fans cannot use screenshots for entry.
• Tickets will not be scanned until a fan enters at a gate when gates open two hours before kickoff.

Pregame and postgame traffic flow is pivoting

• Pregame and postgame ride share will now drop off and pick up at The Hill.
• All shuttles that previously dropped off at Circle Park will now drop off on Volunteer Boulevard at the Stokely Garage (G16) bus-cutouts.
• Peyton Manning Pass and Phillip Fulmer Way from Cumberland Avenue to Lake Loudoun Boulevard will be closed starting at 5 a.m. ET on game days to provide better security and flow in congested areas around the stadium.
• Vehicles with permits for Lot 9/9B and Middle Drive will be allowed to turn onto Phillip Fulmer Way from Cumberland Avenue. No vehicles will be permitted access to Lot 9/9B down Peyton Manning Pass, and only approved/commercial vehicles will be permitted up Phillip Fulmer Way from Lake Loudoun Boulevard.

The Pride of the Southland's route is different in 2025

• The Pride of the Southland marching band will no longer cross the pedestrian bridge before entering Neyland Stadium. It will come down Peyton Manning Pass this season for the band march. The Salute to the Hill will take place at the bottom of Peyton Manning Pass and Phillip Fulmer Way.

BAND:Pride of the Southland has new parade route and drills, familiar favorites for new season

The south end zone continues to get bigger and better.

• Entry into Gate 9 has doubled in size and the southwest plaza has expanded to ease congestion.
• The south side of Neyland Stadium has larger and new restrooms, a first aid station, a vintage apparel shop and a new elevator to assist fans.

New food and drink options from tailgates to premium seating

• Tennessee has added new concession offerings at Neyland Stadium, ranging from buffalo chicken mac and cheese to Knoxville-flavored chicken tenders to rotating chef specials in select areas.
• Texas Roadhouse will be available pregame and during the game at the Truly's Tailgate outside Gate 9. The tailgate will also include a new ice cream shop, a chicken stand and more.
• The Tennessee Terrace will feature new food from Chesapeake's, Copper Cellar and Calhoun's.

This story was updated because an earlier version included an inaccuracy about changes to game-day shuttle service.

Mike Wilsoncovers University of Tennessee athletics. Email him at michael.wilson@knoxnews.com and follow him on X @By Mike Wilson. If you enjoy Mike's coverage,Consider a digital subscriptionthat will allow you access to all of it.

This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel:What is changing at Neyland Stadium for Tennessee football's 2025 season