Philadelphia (8-2) at Los Angeles Rams (5-5) Sunday, 8:20 p.m. EST, NBC/Peacock BetMGM NFL odds: Eagles by 3. Against the spread: Eagles 6-4; Rams 4-6. Series record: Eagles lead 23-20-1. Last meeting: Eagles beat Rams 23-14 in Inglewood, Calif. on Oct. 8, 2023. Last week: Eagles beat Washington 26-18; Rams beat New England 28-22. Eagles offense: overall (5), rush (1), pass (22), scoring (7). Eagles defense: overall (1), rush (7), pass (2), scoring (6). Rams offense: overall (17), rush (26), pass (T-7), scoring (21). Rams defense: overall (23), rush (18), pass (22), scoring (22). Turnover differential: Eagles plus-2; Rams plus-4. RB Saquon Barkley. Barkley combined for 198 scrimmage yards and two scores, rushing 26 times for 146 yards (5.6 average) while adding two receptions for 52 yards against Washington. With 1,137 rushing yards through 10 games, Barkley only trails Baltimore’s Derrick Henry for the NFL lead. He had his sixth 100-plus yard rushing game this season, which is the most in the NFL. Story continues below video S Kam Kinchens. The rookie third-round pick from Miami had eight tackles, one tackle for loss, an interception and a forced fumble against the Patriots as he continues to come on strong. Kinchens has three picks in the past three games. Eagles QB Jalen Hurts vs. Rams’ defensive line. Hurts shredded Los Angeles for 303 yards passing and 72 yards rushing last season despite the presence of superstar DT Aaron Donald. After Donald retired, the Rams turned to a committee approach to get after the passer, and it has worked with rookie OLB Jared Verse and DT Braden Fiske fitting in well next to second-year OLB Byron Young and DT Kobie Turner. But they can only unleash their excellent pass rush skills by limiting Philadelphia on early downs. Hurts has been at his dual-threat best over the past five games, accounting for 15 total touchdowns (six passing, nine rushing) against two turnovers. Eagles defensive end Bryce Huff had surgery on his left wrist on Thursday, a move that could allow him to return toward the end of the season. ... WR DeVonta Smith (hamstring) was ruled out on Friday. ... Rams RT Rob Havenstein (ankle) got in two limited practices this week but is doubtful to play. Havenstein sat out the previous two games because of the ailment. The Eagles have won all three games in Los Angeles since the Rams moved back in 2016. ... Overall, Philadelphia has won seven of the past eight. The only setback came in Week 2 of the 2020 pandemic season. Barkley has passed 100-plus scrimmage yards in eight of 10 games. That is tied with LeSean McCoy (2011) and Brian Westbrook (2007) for the most by an Eagle through 10 games. His 198 yards were his second most as an Eagle (199 in Week 9). ... The Eagles have allowed two passing touchdowns during their winning streak. Only one opponent has topped 200 passing yards against them in this stretch, with Cincinnati throwing for 222 in Week 8. ... Hurts leads all NFL quarterbacks with 11 touchdown runs and is second only to Henry's 13 scores for the Ravens. ... WR A.J. Brown leads the league in receptions of 30 yards or longer. He is averaging 18.7 yards per catch, the best mark of any player with at least 30 grabs. ... Even before he hurt his wrist, Huff struggled in his first season in Philadelphia with just 2 1/2 sacks and four quarterback hits. His snap count has dipped since he was injured ahead of a game earlier this month against Jacksonville. Huff had 17 1/2 sacks in four seasons with the Jets before he signed a three-year, $51 million free-agent deal with the Eagles. ... Philadelphia has run for at least 150 yards and two touchdowns in five straight games, something it hadn't accomplished since 1949. ... Rams WR Puka Nacua caught his first touchdown of the season in New England. He has at least seven receptions and 98 yards in three of his past four games, with only a second-quarter ejection in Seattle having limited Nacua since he returned from a knee injury. ... WR Cooper Kupp has 614 receptions through his first 98 games, which is fourth most in NFL history through 100 games. Julio Jones (619) is third. ... RB Kyren Williams averaged a season-high 5.7 yards per carry, finishing with 86 yards on 15 attempts versus the Patriots. ... Verse has 11 tackles for loss and 4 1/2 sacks through his first 10 games. Verse is pressuring the quarterback on 20.2% of pass rush snaps, which ranks second in the league overall. ... The Rams were 2 of 8 (25%) on third down against New England, their third straight game converting 25% or worse. ... QB Matthew Stafford has not been sacked in each of Los Angeles’ past three wins. Don’t be discouraged using Stafford, Kupp and Nacua against Philadelphia's pass defense. All three put up solid fantasy numbers in last season’s meeting, even as the Eagles sat on the ball for nearly 38 minutes. Stafford had 222 yards and two scores, finding Kupp eight times for 118 yards and Nacua seven times for 71 yards and a touchdown, so they'll find ways to produce. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFLStock market today: Stocks waver in thin trading after US markets reopen following a holiday pauseThursday, December 26, 2024 The global cycle tourism market has experienced a surge in demand, with the market valued at USD 127.82 billion in 2023 and expected to reach USD 241.27 billion by 2030. This represents a significant growth rate driven by the rising interest in eco-friendly tourism, adventure travel, and cycling tours across various regions. With an increasing focus on sustainability and outdoor exploration, cycle tourism is gaining traction as a preferred way to travel and experience destinations in an environmentally conscious manner. Cycle tourism refers to the practice of traveling and exploring destinations by bicycle. This form of tourism allows travelers to combine their passion for cycling with the opportunity to explore new locations, all while contributing to a more sustainable and eco-friendly travel experience. Cycle tourism includes a variety of tour types, from self-guided tours to more organized and group-based cycling experiences, allowing participants to enjoy both physical activity and the exploration of diverse cultures, landscapes, and environments. The market for cycle tourism is expanding as more travelers seek adventure tourism, sustainable travel options, and unique experiences. Factors such as rising environmental awareness and the desire for outdoor recreation have contributed to the increasing popularity of cycle tourism worldwide. Several key factors are driving the expansion of the cycle tourism market: The cycle tourism market can be segmented by the type of tour, duration, terrain, purpose, accommodation, distance, and skill level, offering a wide range of options for travelers. Several companies are leading the charge in the cycle tourism market by offering a range of cycling tours across popular destinations. Major players include: These companies specialize in crafting cycling experiences that allow travelers to immerse themselves in the culture, environment, and adventure of their chosen destinations. From wine-tasting cycling tours to family-friendly rides and solo traveler expeditions, these businesses have expanded the possibilities for cycle tourism. The cycle tourism market is growing globally, but some regions are experiencing particularly strong growth. The cycle tourism market is poised for significant growth over the next several years. As sustainability becomes a priority for more travelers, and with the rise of adventure tourism, the demand for eco-friendly and active travel experiences will continue to drive the market. Advancements in bicycle technology, infrastructure improvements, and government support for sustainable tourism will further enhance the appeal of cycle tourism. As destinations and operators adapt to the changing preferences of eco-conscious travelers, the cycle tourism market is expected to reach new heights, offering more diverse experiences and greater accessibility for cyclists around the world. Cycle tourism is on the rise, driven by the increasing demand for eco-friendly travel, adventure tourism, and technological advancements in cycling. With a projected market value of USD 241.27 billion by 2030, the industry is set for strong growth. As governments, businesses, and travelers embrace sustainable and active travel experiences, cycle tourism is poised to become a dominant force in the global tourism market.

Aussie footy star Jordan Petaia knocks back lucrative offers to chase NFL dreamEnzo Maresca backs his Chelsea side to 'dominate English football'... but insists the Blues are not ready to be the top dogs in the Premier League yet Chelsea have started the season strongly under new manager Enzo Maresca Maresca is predicting a bright future, but does not expect a title challenge yet LISTEN NOW: Manchester City correspondent Jack Gaughan joins It's All Kicking Off! to explain whether Pep Guardiola will have money to spend in January By KIERAN GILL Published: 22:34 GMT, 3 December 2024 | Updated: 22:34 GMT, 3 December 2024 e-mail View comments Enzo Maresca says Chelsea are growing out of being Premier League ‘puppies' but in a press conference reminiscent of Jose Mourinho , the Italian insisted this season is too soon to claim they can be crowned the top dogs in England. It was during Mourinho’s debut campaign of his second spell in 2013-14 when the Portuguese famously allayed expectations by insisting the Blues were not in the running with Manchester City and Arsenal , saying: 'Two horses and a little horse that still needs milk. A horse that next season can race.’ Chelsea went on to win the title the very next year under Mourinho and on Tuesday, Maresca, who has a three-year-old Golden Retriever called Ciro, used his dog to describe Chelsea’s growth towards contendership as they take on Southampton at St Mary’s Stadium on Wednesday night. ‘Because of the age, and because of how good the squad is, for me Chelsea in the next five to 10 years will be one of the teams or the team that is going to dominate English football,’ Maresca said. ‘This is what I said this to the club the first time I met them. I still think exactly the same. 'I don’t think (Manchester) City are at the end of a cycle. They are in a bad moment, for sure. I’m more focussed on what we have here, that is good players, good squad, young age and this is the reason why I said, for me, for the next years, Chelsea can be an important club in English football.’ It was then while discussing Mourinho’s horse analogy that Maresca said: ‘The last 20 years, I have always been with two Golden Retrievers or at least one. I don’t know what kind of animals we are.’ Enzo Maresca thinks it is too early for his Chelsea side to challenge for the Premier League title Jose Mourinho famously claimed in the first season of his second spell that his Chelsea side were just a 'little horse' and they went on to win the title the following year Asked if Chelsea should be considered 'puppies' currently, Maresca answered: ‘No. I think we showed we are there and we are competing very well in all the competitions. This shows how mature they are in this moment.’ Tuesday was Maresca’s six-month anniversary of his appointment. He had considerable doubters at the time, some even saying he would be out of Chelsea by December due to his lack of Premier League experience. ‘The moment we lose games, there will still be doubt, I know how it works,’ he said. ‘It’s gone quite quick, the six months. Did I doubt myself? No. Eddie Howe, when he started, did he have experience? No. Pep (Guardiola), when he started at Barcelona. Experience? No. Mikel (Arteta), when he started at Arsenal. Experience? No. When you started as a journalist. Experience? No. ‘We all are in the same situation. When you start, you don’t have experience. You cannot go to the supermarket and buy experience. You need time.’ Enzo Maresca Jose Mourinho Arsenal Chelsea Share or comment on this article: Enzo Maresca backs his Chelsea side to 'dominate English football'... but insists the Blues are not ready to be the top dogs in the Premier League yet e-mail Add commentHONOLULU (AP) — KyeRon Lindsay and Terence Harcum each scored 16 points as Murray State beat Loyola Chicago 71-68 on Wednesday for seventh place at the Diamond Head Classic. Lindsay also had five rebounds and four steals for the Racers (7-6). Harcum went 5 of 10 from the floor, including 2 for 6 from 3-point range, and 4 for 6 from the line. AJ Ferguson shot 4 of 8 from the field and 2 for 4 from the line to finish with 11 points. The Ramblers (9-4) were led by Miles Rubin, who posted 16 points and three blocks. Des Watson added 12 points and Sheldon Edwards had 10 points. Lindsay scored eight points in the first half and Murray State went into halftime trailing 36-34. Harcum led the way with 10 second-half points. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .

How the stock market defied expectations again this year, by the numbers NEW YORK (AP) — What a wonderful year 2024 has been for investors. U.S. stocks ripped higher and carried the S&P 500 to records as the economy kept growing and the Federal Reserve began cutting interest rates. The benchmark index posted its first back-to-back annual gains of more than 20% since 1998. The year featured many familiar winners, such as Big Tech, which got even bigger as their stock prices kept growing. But it wasn’t just Apple, Nvidia and the like. Bitcoin and gold surged and “Roaring Kitty” reappeared to briefly reignite the meme stock craze. Stock market today: Stocks drift higher as US markets reopen after a holiday pause Stocks are drifting higher on Wall Street in light trading as U.S. markets reopen following the Christmas holiday. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq composite were up by less than 0.1% in midday trading Thursday. The Dow Jones Industrial Average was up 0.1%. Gains in technology companies overall and retailers helped boost the market, despite a pullback by some heavyweight Big Tech stocks. The Labor Department reported that U.S. applications for unemployment benefits held steady last week, though continuing claims rose to the highest level in three years. Treasury yields rose. U.S. markets have historically gotten a boost at year’s end despite lower trading volumes. Israel strikes Houthi rebels in Yemen's capital while the WHO chief says he was meters away JERUSALEM (AP) — A new round of Israeli airstrikes in Yemen have targeted the Houthi rebel-held capital of Sanaa and multiple ports. The World Health Organization’s director-general said the bombardment on Thursday took place just “meters away” as he was about to board a flight in Sanaa. He says a crew member was hurt. The strikes followed several days of Houthi attacks and launches setting off sirens in Israel. Israel's military says it attacked infrastructure used by the Houthis at the international airport in Sanaa, power stations and ports. The Israeli military didn't immediate respond to questions about the WHO chief's statement. Holiday shoppers increased spending by 3.8% despite higher prices New data shows holiday sales rose this year even as Americans wrestled with still high prices in many grocery necessities and other financial worries. According to Mastercard SpendingPulse, holiday sales from the beginning of November through Christmas Eve climbed 3.8%, a faster pace than the 3.1% increase from a year earlier. The measure tracks all kinds of payments including cash and debit cards. This year, retailers were even more under the gun to get shoppers in to buy early and in bulk since there were five fewer days between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Mastercard SpendingPulse says the last five days of the season accounted for 10% of the spending. Sales of clothing, electronics and Jewelry rose. Finland stops Russia-linked vessel over damaged undersea power cable in Baltic Sea FRANKFURT, Germany (AP) — Finnish police say authorities detained a ship linked to neighboring Russia as they investigate whether it damaged a Baltic Sea power cable and several data cables. It was the latest incident involving disruption of key infrastructure. Police and border guards boarded the Eagle S and took control as they investigate damage to the Estlink-2 undersea power cable. The cable brings electricity from Finland to Estonia across the Baltic Sea. The cable went down on Wednesday. The incident follows damage to two data cables and the Nord Stream gas pipelines. Both have been termed sabotage. Russian ship that sank in the Mediterranean was attacked, owner says MOSCOW (AP) — The Russian operator of a cargo ship that sank in the Mediterranean Sea between Spain and Algeria says it has been hit by a series of explosions in an act of sabotage. Oboronlogistica is a state-controlled company that operated the Ursa Major freighter. The company said the vessel was wrecked by three powerful explosions just above the water line in what it described as a “terrorist attack” that caused it to sink on Monday. The company said in a statement carried by Russia’s state RIA Novosti news agency on Thursday that the explosions left a hole in the ship’s starboard and filled the engine room with acrid smoke. That hampered the crew’s attempts to access it. Undersea power cable linking Finland and Estonia hit by outage, prompting investigation FRANKFURT, Germany (AP) — Finland’s prime minister says authorities are investigating an interruption in a power cable under the Baltic Sea between his country and Estonia. Petteri Orpo said on X that power transmission through the Estlink-2 cable suffered an outage Wednesday. Authorities have been on edge about undersea infrastructure in the Baltic after two international data cables were severed in November and the Nord Stream gas pipelines between Russia and Germany were blown up in September 2022. Japan to maximize nuclear power in clean-energy push as electricity demand grows TOKYO (AP) — A Japanese government panel has largely supported a draft energy policy calling for bolstering renewables up to half of Japanese electricity needs by 2040. It also recommends maximizing the use of nuclear power to accommodate the growing demand for power in the era of AI while meeting decarbonization targets. Cabinet is expected to formally approve the plan by March following a period of public consultation. The policy says nuclear energy should account for 20% of Japan’s energy supply in 2040, with renewables expanded to 40-50% and coal-fired power reduced to 30-40%. Working Well: Returning to the office can disrupt life. Here are some tips to navigate the changes NEW YORK (AP) — Thousands of workers are facing an unsettling reality heading into 2025. After years of working from the comfort of home, they're being told it’s time to return to the office full-time for the first time since the coronavirus pandemic. That can bring a host of challenges, including losing time with family. Workers at Amazon, AT&T and other companies have been called back to the office five days a week. Experts have advice to share about how to navigate the changes when an employer calls you back to the office. Workers can convey what they need, seek flexibility and if all else fails, consider other options. US applications for unemployment benefits hold steady, but continuing claims rise to 3-year high WASHINGTON (AP) — The number of Americans applying for unemployment benefits held steady last week, though continuing claims rose to the highest level in three years. The US Labor Department reported Thursday that jobless claim applications ticked down by 1,000 to 219,000 for the week of Dec. 21. That’s fewer than the 223,000 analysts forecast. Continuing claims, the total number of Americans collecting jobless benefits, climbed by 46,000 to 1.91 million for the week of Dec. 14. That’s more than analysts projected and the most since the week of Nov. 13, 2021. Weekly applications for jobless benefits are considered representative of U.S. layoffs.

Kuwait Coast Guard modernizing fleet, introducing dronesWhich gifts were popular this year? This list from Apple offers clues.