Denny Hamlin snags his first spot in the championship field since 2014 by winning in Arizona.
Scott Martin
Sunday’s college roundup: UMaine men go cold in second half to lose to Harvard
The Black Bears make just five field goals in the second half of their 67-46 loss.
Tuesday’s college roundup: Ohio State tops first College Football Playoff rankings
The Buckeyes are followed by LSU, Alabama and Penn State.
Sports Digest: Cumberland native Hart signs with Mariners
Ted Hart, who won two state titles at Greely High, signs with Maine, which next plays at home Saturday night.
NFL notebook: Panthers place Newton on injured reserve
The move effectively ends the season for Carolina QB Cam Newton, who still has pain from the foot injury originally sustained in preseason.
NBA roundup: James leads Lakers to 118-112 win over Bulls
LeBron James has his third straight triple-double as Los Angeles rallies to win its sixth straight.
Martinez will not opt out of his deal with the Red Sox
Designated hitter J.D. Martinez has decided to remain in Boston. though he can still opt out after each the next two seasons.
Patriots lose for first time, 37-20 to Ravens
The Baltimore Ravens jump to a 17-0 lead, then get a 70-yard TD on a fumble return in the third quarter to cool off a comeback by the Patriots.
NBA roundup: Heat score 46 points in first quarter in routing Rockets, 129-100
Miami leads by as many as 41 points to improve to 5-1.
Harvick has NASCAR Cup title shot after third straight Texas fall win
Kevin Harvick secures one of the championship-contending spots for the Nov. 17 season-ending race at Homestead-Miami Speedway.