The EUR/GBP cross loses momentum to near 0. 8820 during the early European session on Thursday. Nonetheless, the potential downside for the cross might be limited, as weakening UK economic data have increased expectations for a Bank of England (BoE) interest rate cut in December. The German Producer Price Index (PPI) and Eurozone Consumer Confidence reports will be released later on Thursday. Recent weak UK economic data, such as Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation, disappointing GDP and Industrial Production readings, have boosted BoE rate cut bets in the December meeting. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) revealed on Wednesday that the UK headline inflation fell to 3. 6% YoY in October, as expected, from 3. 8% in September. Additionally, uncertainty and pessimism surrounding the UK’s autumn budget could weaken sentiment towards the Pound Sterling against the Euro. The upcoming government budget on November 26 is also expected to influence the BoE’s next move. While the BoE is facing pressure to reduce the interest rates, the European Central Bank (ECB) maintains a more cautious stance, which provides some support to the EUR. According to a majority of economists polled by Reuters, the ECB will hold interest rates at least until the end of 2026. The case for a longer pause has increased since the ECB last reduced the key interest rates in June, with inflation hovering around the 2% target, GDP stable, and the unemployment rate staying at an all-time low.
https://bitcoinethereumnews.com/finance/eur-gbp-softens-below-0-8850-despite-growing-expectations-of-boe-rate-cut/
Tag: disappointing
Five things we learned in Miami Hurricanes’ needed win over Syracuse
The Miami Hurricanes bounced back from their disappointing loss to SMU with a four-touchdown win over a struggling Syracuse team, keeping their playoff hopes alive. Miami needed the win and ultimately delivered the victory. Here are five things we learned from Saturday evening’s game:
**1. The Offense Started Poorly**
Hurricanes fans were growing restless in the first half, as Miami’s first four drives ended in punts. UM did not get on the board through the first 27 minutes against a defense that has been one of the worst in the Power 4 conferences. Several factors tripped the Hurricanes up, including a potential big play that was batted down at the line and mistakes like dropped passes that stalled drives.
As halftime neared, Miami’s offense was clearly struggling — a bad look for a unit ranked just above 50th nationally. Looking ahead, the Hurricanes will need to put pressure on teams early. Miami coach Mario Cristobal said, “I thought the players attacked the opportunities with a lot of energy and I think after some moments of struggling, we finally just cut it loose. I think it’s that simple. We called it more freely, played more freely, and stopped worrying about the outcome, focusing more on the process.”
**2. The Offense Ultimately Showed Up**
After a slow first half, UM began putting points on the board. Offensive coordinator Shannon Dawson pulled new plays from his bag of tricks, including running wide receiver Malachi Toney as a Wildcat quarterback. Toney threw a touchdown pass to quarterback Carson Beck, who in turn tossed a backward pass to offensive lineman Francis Mauigoa for a touchdown.
The Hurricanes finished the game with 385 total yards, slightly below their season average, scoring 31 points and putting the game out of reach by the start of the fourth quarter. Freshman running back Girard Pringle Jr. provided a spark on offense, averaging 7.9 yards per carry and scoring his fourth touchdown of the season. Cristobal praised him, saying, “Great eyes. He sees it really well. Very explosive. You saw that he has a different gear as well.”
**3. Defense Wins Games**
While Miami’s offense struggled early, the defense dominated. Syracuse’s offense was not the toughest test, but the Hurricanes passed with flying colors. Miami held Syracuse scoreless until the third quarter and consistently caused havoc.
UM recorded a season-high three sacks and 11 tackles for loss. They also forced three takeaways: two interceptions, including a pick-six by Keionte Scott, and a fumble recovery. Defensive end Akheem Mesidor emphasized the defensive mindset: “At the end of the day, if the opponent doesn’t score, they don’t win.”
The one blemish on the defense’s record was run defense. Syracuse rushed for 161 yards, or 214 yards when adjusted for sack yardage, marking UM’s worst performance against the run this season.
**4. Penalties Cleaned Up**
The Hurricanes have struggled with penalties all season, but fouls were not a major issue this week. Miami finished with five penalties for 54 yards — not ideal, but better than the eight penalties for over 60 yards they had averaged entering the game.
Beck commented, “When all three facets of the game — special teams, defense, offense — are all working hand in hand, it creates those types of clean games. You eliminate penalties, you eliminate turnovers, and usually, you have efficient plays that move you in a positive direction, which ultimately leads to wins.”
Importantly, the offensive line cleaned up its act, not having a single penalty called against it after committing five pre-snap penalties in the loss to SMU.
**5. Akheem Mesidor Dominates**
Defensive end Rueben Bain Jr. has received much attention for his excellent season, and rightly so. But Bain’s counterpart on the opposite end of the defensive line, Akheem Mesidor, deserves just as much recognition. Mesidor has been outstanding this season and had one of his best games as a Hurricane on Saturday.
He finished with five tackles, a team-leading 3.5 tackles for loss, and 1.5 sacks. Pro Football Focus gave Mesidor a team-best 87 defensive grade. He holds a 90.3 defensive grade for the season, ranking 19th nationally among defensive players with 200 or more snaps.
“As a defensive lineman, the best thing for me is getting sacks,” Mesidor said. “So to be able to do that and then have defensive line coach Jason Taylor come out and celebrate with me is amazing.”
—
With this win, the Miami Hurricanes have kept their playoff hopes alive, showing resilience and growth on both sides of the ball. The team will look to build on these positives as the season progresses.
https://www.sun-sentinel.com/2025/11/09/five-things-we-learned-in-miami-hurricanes-needed-win-over-syracuse/
1 signing Cowboys must make after making Quinnen Williams trade
For the Dallas Cowboys, the 2025 season has been anything but predictable. What began with the shocking offseason trade of Micah Parsons has spiraled into a turbulent campaign. After a demoralizing 27-17 home loss to the Arizona Cardinals, team owner Jerry Jones made yet another bold move. He swung for a star in an effort to save the season.
By acquiring All-Pro defensive tackle Quinnen Williams, the Cowboys don’t seem to be giving up on contention just yet. The move was monumental but ultimately incomplete. Sure, Williams fortifies the middle of Dallas’ defense. However, the absence of a dominant edge rusher continues to haunt this roster. If the Cowboys truly want to climb back into the NFC playoff race, they still need to sign a proven, experienced EDGE rusher to replace the game-changing presence Parsons once provided.
—
### Chaos and One Desperate Gamble
The 2025 season has been tumultuous for the Cowboys. Again, it started with the trade of star pass-rusher Micah Parsons following his contract holdout. Now, it has culminated in a disappointing 3-5-1 record through Week 9. Their defense has fallen apart, ranking near the bottom of the league, particularly against the run.
That reality led Jerry Jones and the front office to act aggressively at the 2025 NFL trade deadline. In a surprising pair of moves, Dallas acquired linebacker Logan Wilson and All-Pro defensive tackle Quinnen Williams.
The blockbuster deal with the New York Jets saw the Cowboys send defensive tackle Mazi Smith and the better of their two 2027 first-round picks to land Williams. The price was steep, but the payoff could be enormous.
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### Quinnen Williams: A Defensive Anchor
Williams immediately became the team’s best interior defender. He can collapse pockets and swallow up running lanes. Reports indicate the Cowboys plan to extend Williams long-term, too. That would solidify him as a cornerstone of their rebuilt defense.
Williams should drastically improve Dallas’ run defense. He’s ranked as a top-10 interior lineman by Pro Football Focus. His combination of power and athleticism makes him one of the league’s most disruptive interior defenders.
Still, this trade is more about potential than immediate results. Williams can plug gaps, but he can’t solve the Cowboys’ problems alone.
If nothing else, the trade reaffirmed Jerry Jones’ faith in head coach Brian Schottenheimer and the existing roster. To make this investment pay off, though, the Cowboys must finish what they started. That means signing a premier edge rusher to complete their defensive overhaul.
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### The Next Signing: A Veteran Free-Agent EDGE Rusher
Trading for Williams was a massive step in repairing the defense. That said, the Cowboys’ work is far from finished.
With Parsons gone, the team’s once-feared pass rush has lost its teeth. Williams and Kenny Clark can dominate the interior. Still, without an explosive edge presence, opposing quarterbacks will have too much time to throw.
The Cowboys must now target a proven EDGE rusher to complement Williams and restore the defense’s identity.
Several veteran names make sense. Shaquil Barrett, DeMarcus Walker, and Yannick Ngakoue are all currently available options capable of producing right away.
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### Filling the Micah Parsons Void
Obviously, you can’t truly replace Parsons. However, you can mitigate his absence.
Parsons was a generational player who single-handedly changed games with his pressure, speed, and versatility. Since his departure, the Cowboys’ sack rate and quarterback pressures have plummeted.
Adding a proven edge threat like Shaquil Barrett would help restore balance. Barrett’s ability to win one-on-one matchups off the edge and close quickly on quarterbacks would complement Williams perfectly.
His presence would also help Wilson and the linebackers flow more freely, tightening up Dallas’ second level.
—
### Maximizing Quinnen Williams’ Impact
The beauty of the Williams trade lies in his versatility. He can dominate against both the run and pass. To unlock his full potential, though, he needs a strong supporting cast.
When interior linemen are constantly double-teamed, an athletic edge rusher can capitalize on mismatches. That’s also why a player like Ngakoue makes so much sense.
Though he’s been a journeyman, Ngakoue remains one of the league’s most efficient pass rushers when playing alongside disruptive interior linemen. In Dallas, he’d thrive.
Together, Ngakoue and Williams could generate the kind of inside-outside pressure that fuels elite defenses.
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### A True ‘Win-Now’ Statement
The Cowboys’ decision to trade premium draft capital for Williams was bold. However, without supplementing that move with an EDGE signing, the front office risks wasting its investment.
A veteran pass rusher would serve as a ‘win-now’ statement, reaffirming that the Cowboys aren’t merely retooling—they’re rebuilding to contend immediately.
Dallas has a bit of cap space and a history of making splashy moves when the stakes are high. Even if the Cowboys fall short this year, the move would set them up for a 2026 rebound, with Williams, Clark, Wilson, and a new edge rusher forming a defensive core capable of dominating the NFC.
—
### Complete the Transformation
The Williams trade gave Dallas credibility again. It showed ambition. Still, the Cowboys lack the finishing touch that separates rebuilding teams from legitimate contenders.
Without a dominant edge presence, Williams’ impact will be muted. Signing a veteran EDGE rusher is a necessity.
Whether it’s Shaquil Barrett’s power, Yannick Ngakoue’s speed, or even DeMarcus Walker’s versatility, Dallas must act decisively.
The pieces are there for a defensive resurgence. Now, it’s about completing the puzzle.
https://clutchpoints.com/nfl/dallas-cowboys/signing-cowboys-make-making-quinnen-williams-trade-2025
“They’re bunch of greedy scumbags”: NFL fans rip into Disney after YouTube TV blacks out ESPN, ABC amid dispute
While most NFL fans focus on the player market as the trade deadline approaches, there is another significant area generating attention—the media rights market. A recent development in this space is causing a stir among viewers and industry watchers alike.
On Thursday, YouTube TV announced that it was blacking out ESPN and ABC, among other channels, following the expiration of its service agreement with Disney. This move left many subscribers without access to their favorite sports and entertainment content.
### ESPN Accuses Google of Anti-Competitive Behavior
In response, ESPN issued a statement accusing YouTube TV’s owner, Google, of attempting to stifle competition in the streaming sector:
> “Unfortunately, Google’s YouTube TV has chosen to deny their subscribers the content they value most by refusing to pay fair rates for our channels, including ESPN and ABC. Without a new agreement in place, their subscribers will not have access to our programming.
>
> We know how frustrating this is for YouTube TV subscribers and remain committed to working toward a resolution as quickly as possible.”
### Viewers Push Back: Criticism Directed at Disney
Not everyone sided with ESPN and Disney. Some viewers voiced frustration with Disney’s pricing strategy, accusing the media giant of making its networks too expensive for streaming services to carry:
– “The hate should be focused on Disney,” one commenter insisted.
– “Google should just buy Disney, in my opinion,” said another.
– “They want people to pay $30 a month just for the ESPN channels,” lamented a third.
### YouTube TV Offers Subscriber Credits Amid Blackouts
Meanwhile, YouTube TV responded by offering impacted subscribers a $20 credit as compensation for the blackout. In a statement, the company said:
> “We know this is a frustrating and disappointing outcome for our subscribers and we continue to urge Disney to work with us constructively to reach a fair agreement that restores their networks to YouTube TV.”
### YouTube TV’s Deals with Other NFL Broadcasters: A Brief Overview
While the standoff with Disney continues, YouTube TV has successfully secured multi-year agreements with other major NFL broadcast partners:
– **Paramount (CBS):** The earliest agreement was reached in February, shortly after Super Bowl LIX. This deal—the first to lapse during Super Bowl week—was extended temporarily until the current multi-year deal was signed. It covers CBS, CBS Sports Channel, BET, Nickelodeon, TV Land, Paramount Network, CMT, Nick Jr., Smithsonian Channel, and VH1.
– **Fox:** The Fox deal was finalized in August, just before the NFL regular season began. It includes the full portfolio of Fox-owned stations as well as local affiliates.
– **NBCUniversal:** The most recent renewal came this month. Notably, this agreement includes a relaunch of the NBC Sports Network (NBCSN), which had been shut down in 2021. YouTube TV will serve as NBCSN’s inaugural carrier upon its relaunch.
As negotiations between YouTube TV and Disney unfold, NFL fans and streaming subscribers remain hopeful for a swift resolution that restores access to ESPN and ABC’s popular programming.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/nfl/news-nfl-fans-rip-disney-youtube-tv-blacks-espn-abc-amid-dispute
Dolphins’ Bradley Chubb addresses trade question amid 2-7 season
The Miami Dolphins have hit another low point in a tough 2025 NFL season, falling 28-6 to the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday Night Football to kick off Week 9. With the loss, the Dolphins dropped to a disappointing 2-7 record.
Veteran edge rusher Bradley Chubb now faces questions about his future, fueling ongoing trade rumors ahead of the upcoming 2025 NFL trade deadline. When asked if he hoped to avoid being traded, the 29-year-old pass rusher responded with notable composure amid the uncertainty.
“I asked Dolphins’ Bradley Chubb if he hopes he’s not traded, and he said in part that God is in complete control, he’s got a C on his chest for a reason, he loves his teammates, and he understands this is a business.”
Chubb’s response came just minutes after the locker room emptied following another tough loss. His leadership remains a cornerstone for the Dolphins’ defense, which has been hampered by injuries and inconsistent play throughout the season. Chubb leads the team with four sacks and stands out as one of the few steady veterans on the unit.
Trade speculation continues to swirl, with multiple playoff contenders reportedly inquiring about potential deals involving Chubb. Various sources have linked him to teams seeking to bolster their pass rush before the November 4 trade deadline.
However, Chubb’s role as a team captain and his on-field production make him a key figure in any rebuilding efforts the Dolphins may undertake. For now, the former NC State standout remains focused on helping Miami navigate a disappointing 2025 season.
Whether that journey continues in South Florida or elsewhere will be determined soon as the trade deadline approaches.
https://clutchpoints.com/nfl/miami-dolphins/dolphins-news-bradley-chubb-trade-question-2-7-season
Mavericks’ Daniel Gafford downgraded on injury report before Raptors game
The Dallas Mavericks will be without one of their centers for a third consecutive game on Sunday night. After initially being listed as doubtful to play due to a right ankle sprain, Daniel Gafford has been downgraded to out for Sunday’s matchup against the Toronto Raptors, according to the NBA injury report.
Kyrie Irving and Dante Exum remain out as well, while Brandon Williams is listed as out due to personal reasons.
Gafford suffered the injury before the season and has yet to make his regular season debut. An official timeline for his return has not been revealed. Head coach Jason Kidd previously refused to rule Gafford out for the season opener. He has been listed as doubtful or questionable on each injury report so far during the regular season, but has not played in a game yet.
The fact that he was not initially listed as out on a consistent basis was seemingly an encouraging sign, but there is still uncertainty overall.
The Mavericks could certainly use Gafford’s help. Dallas is 0-2 so far to begin the 2025-26 campaign. It’s been an extremely disappointing start to the year, and the struggles have unfortunately overshadowed Cooper Flagg’s promising beginning to his career.
At the center position, Dereck Lively II has been starting with Anthony Davis at the four. Davis has played the center role in smaller lineups, while Dwight Powell has come off the bench at times. Gafford will likely serve as Lively’s backup once he returns from injury.
The Mavericks will attempt to earn their first win of the season on Sunday night. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 PM EST.
https://clutchpoints.com/nba/dallas-mavericks/mavericks-news-daniel-gafford-downgraded-injury-report-raptors
Saints make flurry of moves after Week 7 injuries
The 2025 season has been another disappointing campaign for the New Orleans Saints. Entering the year with no real expectations, the outlook has now dimmed even further, with predictions suggesting the team will win three games or fewer this season. Currently, the Saints hold a 1-6 record as they prepare to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 8.
A recent injury update has dealt a significant blow to the Saints’ offense. The team has placed center Erik McCoy and running back Kendre Miller on season-ending Injured Reserve. To address the gaps, the Saints have signed running back Velus Jones Jr. to their active roster from the practice squad and added running back Audric Estimé to the practice squad.
Erik McCoy, a Texas A&M product, was playing like one of the top centers in the league this season. Unfortunately, he suffered a biceps injury during the loss to the Chicago Bears, ruling him out for the remainder of the year. Given his elite performance despite the team’s struggles, McCoy was potentially a trade candidate ahead of the NFL Trade Deadline.
Running back Kendre Miller, who hails from TCU and was part of their national title appearance, has also been sidelined with a torn ACL. His absence is a severe setback for New Orleans’ offense. Miller served as the primary backup to Alvin Kamara, and with him out, the team will need to look to Devin Neal to share the workload. Before the injury, Miller carried the ball 47 times for 193 yards and one touchdown, averaging 4.1 yards per carry over seven games. Miller’s injury history adds to the concern, as he has yet to play more than eight games in a single season. The hope remains that he can recover fully and return stronger in the future.
The addition of Audric Estimé, a former Denver Broncos running back, provides some depth but the Saints’ offense still faces an uphill battle for the remainder of the season.
Overall, with key offensive players sidelined and a tough schedule ahead, the Saints will need resilience and adjustments to salvage what remains of their 2025 campaign.
https://clutchpoints.com/nfl/new-orleans-saints/saints-news-new-orleans-makes-flurry-of-moves-after-week-7-injuries
Shakhtar Donetsk vs Legia Warsaw Prediction and Betting Tips | October 23rd 2025
Shakhtar Donetsk will host Legia Warsaw at the Arena Lviv on Thursday in the second round of the 2025-26 UEFA Europa Conference League campaign. The hosts aim to build on their solid opening round performance and position themselves well for knockout round qualification.
Three weeks ago, Shakhtar put up a strong fight after going behind in the opening 10 minutes, eventually securing a 3-2 win over Scottish side Aberdeen FC. They will be looking to replicate this performance midweek. The Ukrainian side, who have lost only one competitive game since April, are considered one of the favorites to win the Conference League. A win on Thursday would bring them a step closer to advancing to the next stage.
On the other hand, Legia Warsaw had a disappointing outing last time out, suffering a 1-0 home loss to Turkish side Samsunspor – marking Samsunspor’s first-ever European win. Since then, Legia have failed to win any of their subsequent competitive matches. The Polish side have struggled this season, with only three wins from their last 10 games. However, they remain optimistic about turning things around as they travel to Donetsk.
### Shakhtar Donetsk vs Legia Warsaw: Head-to-Head and Key Numbers
Thursday’s match will be only the third meeting between these two clubs. Their first encounter came in the 2006-07 UEFA Champions League qualifiers, where Shakhtar won the two-legged tie 4-2 on aggregate.
This season, Shakhtar boasts the joint-third best offensive and defensive records in the Ukrainian top flight, having scored 15 goals and conceded just eight in nine games. Legia Warsaw reached the quarterfinals of last season’s Conference League but were eliminated by eventual champions Chelsea with an aggregate score of 5-1.
### Prediction
Shakhtar Donetsk are favorites to win on Thursday, thanks to their higher quality and superior recent form. The Ukrainian giants will need to stay focused and avoid complacency to secure all three points.
Legia Warsaw will have to be at their best—something rarely seen this season—to get a positive result against one of the tournament favorites. However, they will hope to gain a boost playing in their home country.
**Prediction: Shakhtar Donetsk 2-1 Legia Warsaw**
### Betting Tips
– **Tip 1 – Result:** Shakhtar to win
– **Tip 2 – Goals Over/Under 2.5:** Over 2.5 goals (Three of Shakhtar’s last four games have featured more than 2.5 goals)
– **Tip 3 – Both Teams to Score:** Yes (Both teams have scored in three of Legia’s last four games)
https://www.sportskeeda.com/football/shakhtar-donetsk-vs-legia-warsaw-prediction-betting-tips-october-23rd-2025
Is it better to buy an annuity when interest rates are high or low?
Last month, the Federal Reserve finally conducted its first rate cut of 2025, dropping its benchmark rate by 25 basis points after months of anticipation. This move marked the start of what many experts and analysts expect will be a gradual pivot toward lower borrowing costs, with at least two more rate cuts anticipated before the end of the year.
For retirees and near-retirees, that shift has sparked renewed questions about how today’s changing rate environment could affect long-term financial decisions. As a result, annuities, in particular, are drawing attention again.
### What Are Annuities?
These insurance-backed retirement products convert savings into guaranteed income for life, much like a pension, providing retirees with a sense of stability that’s hard to find elsewhere. But because annuity payouts are influenced by prevailing interest rates, the timing of your purchase can have a major impact on the income you’ll ultimately receive.
With rates still relatively high, many savers are wondering whether now is the best time to lock in an annuity, or if waiting for the Fed’s next move could be the smarter play. Knowing how interest rates shape annuity performance can help you decide how to secure the most reliable income for your retirement years.
—
### How Do Interest Rates Affect Annuities?
Is it better to buy an annuity when interest rates are high or low? All else equal, high-rate periods favor buyers of fixed annuities, such as:
– Immediate annuities (SPIAs)
– Deferred income annuities (DIAs)
– Multi-year guaranteed annuities (MYGAs)
In other words, it’s typically better to buy an annuity when interest rates are high. Here’s why:
When you purchase an immediate annuity or lock in a fixed annuity rate, insurance companies are essentially promising to pay you a steady stream of income, generally for the rest of your life.
Behind the scenes, though, they’re investing your premium in conservative investments like bonds. The higher the prevailing interest rates when you buy, the more income those investments can generate—and therefore, the more generous the payout the insurer can offer you.
Think of it this way: If an insurance company can invest your money and earn 5% versus 2%, they can afford to pay you significantly more each month while still covering their costs and profit margin.
During the low-rate environment that persisted through much of 2020, annuity payouts were disappointing overall due to low rates. Fast forward to today’s higher-rate environment, and a 65-year-old buying a $100,000 annuity could potentially receive about $650 or more monthly.
—
### Timing Is Key—But Don’t Wait Forever
There’s a catch, though. You can’t just wait forever for interest rates to hit some magical peak. Rates are cyclical, and trying to time the absolute top is like trying to time the stock market—it’s nearly impossible.
If you wait too long, rates might drop again, and you’ll have missed your window. Plus, there’s a personal timing element to consider. The older you are when you purchase an annuity, the higher your payout will be since the insurance company expects to pay you for fewer years.
Waiting too long, however, could mean potentially running down your savings in the meantime.
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### Why Annuities Deserve a Spot in Your Retirement Plan
Beyond just the interest rate question, annuities solve a fundamental retirement challenge that’s only getting harder: longevity risk. Humans are living longer overall, which means your retirement savings may need to last 25, 30, or even 35 years or more.
That’s a long time to worry about whether your retirement portfolio will hold up through market swings, periods of inflation, and other unexpected events or expenses.
This is where annuities tend to shine. Unlike bonds or dividend stocks, an income annuity provides payments you literally cannot outlive. That certainty lets you budget with confidence, knowing exactly what’s coming in each month regardless of what the market does.
You can plan vacations, help your grandkids with college, or simply have more peace of mind knowing your essential expenses are covered.
Annuities can also complement your other retirement income sources. Social Security provides one guaranteed income floor, and an annuity can add another layer.
This combination creates a reliable baseline that covers your must-have expenses, like housing, food, healthcare, and utilities, while your other investments can be managed for growth, emergency funds, or legacy goals.
Ultimately, a solid retirement plan is about creating a diversified income strategy—not putting everything into one basket.
—
### The Bottom Line
Higher interest rates create a more favorable environment for buying annuities, offering better payouts that can significantly boost your retirement income. But the perfect time to buy an annuity is less important than making sure it fits your overall retirement strategy and that you’re buying when rates are reasonably attractive.
If we’re in a higher-rate environment now compared to the past several years, that’s generally a green light worth considering.
Just remember, the best time to secure guaranteed lifetime income is when you actually need that security, not some theoretical future moment when rates might be marginally better.
—
**Compare your annuity options and lock in a great rate today to help ensure the income you need during retirement.**
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/is-it-better-to-buy-an-annuity-when-interest-rates-are-high-or-low/
MNF Seahawks vs. Texans Week 7 Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em picks ft. Nico Collins, Nick Chubb, Jaxon Smith-Njigba
Seahawks vs Texans Monday Night Football: Week 7 Fantasy Football Start ‘Em & Sit ‘Em Picks
Week 7 of the 2025 fantasy football season concludes with an exciting Monday Night Football showdown between the Seattle Seahawks and Houston Texans. Both teams feature solid defenses, which could significantly impact the outlooks of many players in this game. Here is a breakdown of the best players to target and fade to wrap up this week’s slate.
Must-Start Fantasy Picks
Jaxon Smith-Njigba (WR, Seattle Seahawks)
The Seattle Seahawks appear to have found a superstar wide receiver in Jaxon Smith-Njigba. After finishing as the WR48 in his rookie season, he took a massive step forward to finish as the WR10 last year. In 2025, he has been even better, currently ranking as the WR4 so far this season.
Smith-Njigba is averaging seven receptions per game and has exceeded 100 receiving yards in four of his six games. Despite facing a tough Houston Texans defense, he has proven to be one of the most reliable fantasy football stars and is a must-start in all formats.
Nico Collins (WR, Houston Texans)
Nico Collins is another wide receiver that must be started this week, even against an elite Seahawks defense. While he has been somewhat disappointing this year, ranking as the WR35 overall, he remains the featured passing target in the Texans’ offense.
With Christian Kirk ruled out for the game, Collins is expected to see an increased workload, making him a solid pick against Seattle.
Must-Start Summary:
- Jaxon Smith-Njigba (SEA, WR)
- Nico Collins (HOU, WR)
DFS Picks
- Sam Darnold
- Woody Marks
- AJ Barner
Must-Sit Fantasy Picks
Nick Chubb (RB, Houston Texans)
The Texans have been utilizing Nick Chubb as their starting running back while Joe Mixon is out with an injury. Chubb has performed decently, ranking as the RB37, but his ceiling has been limited with only one weekly finish better than RB20.
Chubb has played in just over 50% of snaps, as rookie Woody Marks continues to see his role expand. Coming off the Texans’ bye week, the team may look to get Marks more involved in the gameplan. This, combined with Chubb’s limited upside, makes him a player to avoid against the Seahawks.
Other must-sit players for this week include Cooper Kupp, Xavier Hutchinson, Jaylin Noel, and Tory Horton.
Must-Sit Summary:
- Nick Chubb (HOU, RB)
- Cooper Kupp (WR)
- Xavier Hutchinson (WR)
- Jaylin Noel (WR)
- Tory Horton (WR)
DFS Fades
- C.J. Stroud
- Kenneth Walker III
- Zach Charbonnet
- Dalton Schultz
Make sure to keep these insights in mind as you finalize your fantasy lineups for Monday Night Football in Week 7. Best of luck!