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Top photos from Week 14 of the NFL season

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Top photos from Week 14 of the NFL season
Sport

Sport

Top photos from Week 14 of the NFL season

2025-12-09 11:14 Last Updated At:11:20

Photo highlights from the 14th week of the NFL season.

This gallery was curated by AP photo editors.

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Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts (1) throws as he is tackled by Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Daiyan Henley (0) during the first half of an NFL football game Monday, Dec. 8, 2025, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Caroline Brehman)

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts (1) throws as he is tackled by Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Daiyan Henley (0) during the first half of an NFL football game Monday, Dec. 8, 2025, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Caroline Brehman)

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes is introduced before an NFL football game against the Houston Texans Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes is introduced before an NFL football game against the Houston Texans Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix (10) celebrates with fans after an NFL football game against the Las Vegas Raiders in Las Vegas, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix (10) celebrates with fans after an NFL football game against the Las Vegas Raiders in Las Vegas, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

As Los Angeles Rams tight end Colby Parkinson, right, celebrates, Rams running back Kyren Williams, center, bulls past Arizona Cardinals safety Jalen Thompson, left, to score a touchdown in the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

As Los Angeles Rams tight end Colby Parkinson, right, celebrates, Rams running back Kyren Williams, center, bulls past Arizona Cardinals safety Jalen Thompson, left, to score a touchdown in the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

Kansas City Chiefs fans react late in the second half of an NFL football game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Houston Texans Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)

Kansas City Chiefs fans react late in the second half of an NFL football game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Houston Texans Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)

Green Bay Packers cornerback Keisean Nixon (25) intercepts a pass against Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet (85) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Green Bay, Wis. (AP Photo/Matt Ludtke)

Green Bay Packers cornerback Keisean Nixon (25) intercepts a pass against Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet (85) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Green Bay, Wis. (AP Photo/Matt Ludtke)

Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Patrick Queen reacts after an injury during the second half of an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough)

Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Patrick Queen reacts after an injury during the second half of an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough)

Minnesota Vikings tight end Josh Oliver (84) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)

Minnesota Vikings tight end Josh Oliver (84) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)

Tennessee Titans linebacker James Williams Sr. (52) blocks a punt attempt by Cleveland Browns' Corey Bojorquez (13) in the second half of an NFL football game in Cleveland, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/David Richard)

Tennessee Titans linebacker James Williams Sr. (52) blocks a punt attempt by Cleveland Browns' Corey Bojorquez (13) in the second half of an NFL football game in Cleveland, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/David Richard)

Seattle Seahawks cornerback Devon Witherspoon celebrates a fumble recovery against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

Seattle Seahawks cornerback Devon Witherspoon celebrates a fumble recovery against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

Miami Dolphins cornerback Rasul Douglas (26) intercepts a pass intended for New York Jets wide receiver John Metchie III (3) at the goal line during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Miami Dolphins cornerback Rasul Douglas (26) intercepts a pass intended for New York Jets wide receiver John Metchie III (3) at the goal line during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Jacksonville Jaguars defensive end Josh Hines-Allen (41) sacks Indianapolis Colts quarterback Riley Leonard (15) in the end zone for a safety during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)

Jacksonville Jaguars defensive end Josh Hines-Allen (41) sacks Indianapolis Colts quarterback Riley Leonard (15) in the end zone for a safety during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)

Snow falls as the Buffalo Bills line up for a play against the Cincinnati Bengals during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Orchard Park, N.Y. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Snow falls as the Buffalo Bills line up for a play against the Cincinnati Bengals during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Orchard Park, N.Y. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Seattle Seahawks cornerback Devon Witherspoon (21) celebrates his fumble recovery against the Atlanta Falcons with teammates, including cornerback Riq Woolen (27) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Seattle Seahawks cornerback Devon Witherspoon (21) celebrates his fumble recovery against the Atlanta Falcons with teammates, including cornerback Riq Woolen (27) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Minnesota Vikings tight end Josh Oliver (84) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)

Minnesota Vikings tight end Josh Oliver (84) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)

Fans call out before an NFL football game between the Buffalo Bills and the Cincinnati Bengals, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Orchard Park, N.Y. (AP Photo/Jeffrey T. Barnes)

Fans call out before an NFL football game between the Buffalo Bills and the Cincinnati Bengals, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Orchard Park, N.Y. (AP Photo/Jeffrey T. Barnes)

Cleveland Browns tight end David Njoku (85) celebrates his touchdown catch as team staff check on him for a potential injury in the first half of an NFL football game against the Tennessee Titans in Cleveland, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/David Richard)

Cleveland Browns tight end David Njoku (85) celebrates his touchdown catch as team staff check on him for a potential injury in the first half of an NFL football game against the Tennessee Titans in Cleveland, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/David Richard)

New Orleans Saints running back Devin Neal (24) carries against Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety Christian Izien (29) in the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)

New Orleans Saints running back Devin Neal (24) carries against Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety Christian Izien (29) in the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)

Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders celebrates after throwing a touchdown pass in the first half of an NFL football game against the Tennessee Titans in Cleveland, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/David Richard)

Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders celebrates after throwing a touchdown pass in the first half of an NFL football game against the Tennessee Titans in Cleveland, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/David Richard)

Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety Christian Izien (29) celebrates after stopping the New Orleans Saints on fourth down in the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken)

Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety Christian Izien (29) celebrates after stopping the New Orleans Saints on fourth down in the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken)

Buffalo Bills running back James Cook III (4) runs with the ball past Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Barrett Carter (49) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Orchard Park, N.Y. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Buffalo Bills running back James Cook III (4) runs with the ball past Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Barrett Carter (49) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Orchard Park, N.Y. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow throws a pass during warmups before an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Orchard Park, N.Y. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow throws a pass during warmups before an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Orchard Park, N.Y. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Green Bay Packers fan Wayne Sargeant tailgates before an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Green Bay, Wis. (AP Photo/Mike Roemer)

Green Bay Packers fan Wayne Sargeant tailgates before an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Green Bay, Wis. (AP Photo/Mike Roemer)

Spectators are silhouetted during the national anthem before an NFL football game between the Atlanta Falcons and the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Spectators are silhouetted during the national anthem before an NFL football game between the Atlanta Falcons and the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Indianapolis Colts owner and CEO Carlie Irsay-Gordon poses for a photo with fans before an NFL football game between the Indianapolis Colts and the Jacksonville Jaguars, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)

Indianapolis Colts owner and CEO Carlie Irsay-Gordon poses for a photo with fans before an NFL football game between the Indianapolis Colts and the Jacksonville Jaguars, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)

Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders (12) throws a pass under pressure from Tennessee Titans linebacker Arden Key, right, in the first half of an NFL football game in Cleveland, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)

Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders (12) throws a pass under pressure from Tennessee Titans linebacker Arden Key, right, in the first half of an NFL football game in Cleveland, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)

Seattle Seahawks defensive end Leonard Williams gestures during warmups before an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Seattle Seahawks defensive end Leonard Williams gestures during warmups before an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Cleveland Browns tight end David Njoku (85) catches a touchdown pass as Tennessee Titans cornerback Darrell Baker Jr. (39) defends in the first half of an NFL football game in Cleveland, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/David Richard)

Cleveland Browns tight end David Njoku (85) catches a touchdown pass as Tennessee Titans cornerback Darrell Baker Jr. (39) defends in the first half of an NFL football game in Cleveland, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/David Richard)

Snow falls as the Buffalo Bills line up for a play against the Cincinnati Bengals during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Orchard Park, N.Y. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Snow falls as the Buffalo Bills line up for a play against the Cincinnati Bengals during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Orchard Park, N.Y. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

The Miami Dolphins celebrate after a touchdown against the New York Jets during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

The Miami Dolphins celebrate after a touchdown against the New York Jets during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

AP sports: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl

AP photography: https://apnews.com/photography

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts (1) throws as he is tackled by Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Daiyan Henley (0) during the first half of an NFL football game Monday, Dec. 8, 2025, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Caroline Brehman)

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts (1) throws as he is tackled by Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Daiyan Henley (0) during the first half of an NFL football game Monday, Dec. 8, 2025, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Caroline Brehman)

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes is introduced before an NFL football game against the Houston Texans Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes is introduced before an NFL football game against the Houston Texans Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix (10) celebrates with fans after an NFL football game against the Las Vegas Raiders in Las Vegas, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix (10) celebrates with fans after an NFL football game against the Las Vegas Raiders in Las Vegas, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)

As Los Angeles Rams tight end Colby Parkinson, right, celebrates, Rams running back Kyren Williams, center, bulls past Arizona Cardinals safety Jalen Thompson, left, to score a touchdown in the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

As Los Angeles Rams tight end Colby Parkinson, right, celebrates, Rams running back Kyren Williams, center, bulls past Arizona Cardinals safety Jalen Thompson, left, to score a touchdown in the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

Kansas City Chiefs fans react late in the second half of an NFL football game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Houston Texans Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)

Kansas City Chiefs fans react late in the second half of an NFL football game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Houston Texans Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)

Green Bay Packers cornerback Keisean Nixon (25) intercepts a pass against Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet (85) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Green Bay, Wis. (AP Photo/Matt Ludtke)

Green Bay Packers cornerback Keisean Nixon (25) intercepts a pass against Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet (85) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Green Bay, Wis. (AP Photo/Matt Ludtke)

Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Patrick Queen reacts after an injury during the second half of an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough)

Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Patrick Queen reacts after an injury during the second half of an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough)

Minnesota Vikings tight end Josh Oliver (84) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)

Minnesota Vikings tight end Josh Oliver (84) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)

Tennessee Titans linebacker James Williams Sr. (52) blocks a punt attempt by Cleveland Browns' Corey Bojorquez (13) in the second half of an NFL football game in Cleveland, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/David Richard)

Tennessee Titans linebacker James Williams Sr. (52) blocks a punt attempt by Cleveland Browns' Corey Bojorquez (13) in the second half of an NFL football game in Cleveland, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/David Richard)

Seattle Seahawks cornerback Devon Witherspoon celebrates a fumble recovery against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

Seattle Seahawks cornerback Devon Witherspoon celebrates a fumble recovery against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

Miami Dolphins cornerback Rasul Douglas (26) intercepts a pass intended for New York Jets wide receiver John Metchie III (3) at the goal line during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Miami Dolphins cornerback Rasul Douglas (26) intercepts a pass intended for New York Jets wide receiver John Metchie III (3) at the goal line during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Jacksonville Jaguars defensive end Josh Hines-Allen (41) sacks Indianapolis Colts quarterback Riley Leonard (15) in the end zone for a safety during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)

Jacksonville Jaguars defensive end Josh Hines-Allen (41) sacks Indianapolis Colts quarterback Riley Leonard (15) in the end zone for a safety during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)

Snow falls as the Buffalo Bills line up for a play against the Cincinnati Bengals during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Orchard Park, N.Y. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Snow falls as the Buffalo Bills line up for a play against the Cincinnati Bengals during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Orchard Park, N.Y. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Seattle Seahawks cornerback Devon Witherspoon (21) celebrates his fumble recovery against the Atlanta Falcons with teammates, including cornerback Riq Woolen (27) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Seattle Seahawks cornerback Devon Witherspoon (21) celebrates his fumble recovery against the Atlanta Falcons with teammates, including cornerback Riq Woolen (27) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Minnesota Vikings tight end Josh Oliver (84) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)

Minnesota Vikings tight end Josh Oliver (84) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)

Fans call out before an NFL football game between the Buffalo Bills and the Cincinnati Bengals, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Orchard Park, N.Y. (AP Photo/Jeffrey T. Barnes)

Fans call out before an NFL football game between the Buffalo Bills and the Cincinnati Bengals, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Orchard Park, N.Y. (AP Photo/Jeffrey T. Barnes)

Cleveland Browns tight end David Njoku (85) celebrates his touchdown catch as team staff check on him for a potential injury in the first half of an NFL football game against the Tennessee Titans in Cleveland, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/David Richard)

Cleveland Browns tight end David Njoku (85) celebrates his touchdown catch as team staff check on him for a potential injury in the first half of an NFL football game against the Tennessee Titans in Cleveland, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/David Richard)

New Orleans Saints running back Devin Neal (24) carries against Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety Christian Izien (29) in the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)

New Orleans Saints running back Devin Neal (24) carries against Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety Christian Izien (29) in the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)

Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders celebrates after throwing a touchdown pass in the first half of an NFL football game against the Tennessee Titans in Cleveland, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/David Richard)

Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders celebrates after throwing a touchdown pass in the first half of an NFL football game against the Tennessee Titans in Cleveland, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/David Richard)

Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety Christian Izien (29) celebrates after stopping the New Orleans Saints on fourth down in the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken)

Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety Christian Izien (29) celebrates after stopping the New Orleans Saints on fourth down in the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken)

Buffalo Bills running back James Cook III (4) runs with the ball past Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Barrett Carter (49) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Orchard Park, N.Y. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Buffalo Bills running back James Cook III (4) runs with the ball past Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Barrett Carter (49) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Orchard Park, N.Y. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow throws a pass during warmups before an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Orchard Park, N.Y. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow throws a pass during warmups before an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Orchard Park, N.Y. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Green Bay Packers fan Wayne Sargeant tailgates before an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Green Bay, Wis. (AP Photo/Mike Roemer)

Green Bay Packers fan Wayne Sargeant tailgates before an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Green Bay, Wis. (AP Photo/Mike Roemer)

Spectators are silhouetted during the national anthem before an NFL football game between the Atlanta Falcons and the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Spectators are silhouetted during the national anthem before an NFL football game between the Atlanta Falcons and the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Indianapolis Colts owner and CEO Carlie Irsay-Gordon poses for a photo with fans before an NFL football game between the Indianapolis Colts and the Jacksonville Jaguars, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)

Indianapolis Colts owner and CEO Carlie Irsay-Gordon poses for a photo with fans before an NFL football game between the Indianapolis Colts and the Jacksonville Jaguars, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)

Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders (12) throws a pass under pressure from Tennessee Titans linebacker Arden Key, right, in the first half of an NFL football game in Cleveland, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)

Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders (12) throws a pass under pressure from Tennessee Titans linebacker Arden Key, right, in the first half of an NFL football game in Cleveland, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)

Seattle Seahawks defensive end Leonard Williams gestures during warmups before an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Seattle Seahawks defensive end Leonard Williams gestures during warmups before an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Cleveland Browns tight end David Njoku (85) catches a touchdown pass as Tennessee Titans cornerback Darrell Baker Jr. (39) defends in the first half of an NFL football game in Cleveland, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/David Richard)

Cleveland Browns tight end David Njoku (85) catches a touchdown pass as Tennessee Titans cornerback Darrell Baker Jr. (39) defends in the first half of an NFL football game in Cleveland, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/David Richard)

Snow falls as the Buffalo Bills line up for a play against the Cincinnati Bengals during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Orchard Park, N.Y. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Snow falls as the Buffalo Bills line up for a play against the Cincinnati Bengals during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in Orchard Park, N.Y. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

The Miami Dolphins celebrate after a touchdown against the New York Jets during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

The Miami Dolphins celebrate after a touchdown against the New York Jets during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

CORTINA D'AMPEZZO, Italy (AP) — Korey Dropkin whooped and hollered and directed a string of fist pumps to a small pocket of American curling fans chanting “U-S-A! U-S-A!”

The U.S. is headed to the mixed doubles final at the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics — and has quashed the title hopes of the host nation in the process. Dropkin and his more stoic partner, Cory Thiesse, guaranteed the U.S. its first Olympic medal in the mixed event with a 9-8 victory over Italy in a riveting semifinal match on Monday.

“I bring out a little bit more energy than I probably should,” Dropkin said, grinning through a voice hoarse from yelling in celebration.

“You don’t see football players, basketball players, baseball players always hiding their emotions,” he continued. “You know when they’re pissed off and you know when they’re having a good time. Why not curlers, too?”

Thiesse, from the curling haven of Duluth, Minnesota, becomes the first woman to win an Olympic medal for the U.S.

In Tuesday's title match, the Americans will play Sweden, whose brother-and-sister team of Isabella and Rasmus Wrana upset the British pair of Jennifer Dodds and Brett Mouat in a 9-3 blowout in just seven ends.

Dropkin, of Massachusetts, and Thiesse are competing in their first Olympics and they hugged tightly after the final rock settled to earn two points and the win for the Americans.

Thiesse said it was “crazy" she was going to be playing in a final, adding: “Just a dream week really.”

Asked how it felt to beat the Italians, Dropkin said: “There’s no better way to make the Olympic final than to go through the reigning Olympic champions."

Stefania Constantini and Amos Mosaner have enjoyed raucous support over the past week, with Italian fans registering their approval by banging on the old wooden bannisters inside the Cortina Curling Stadium and screaming “Italia! Italia! Italia!” In Constantini, Italy found a new Olympic darling — and she looked stunned as the tables slowly turned.

The Italians had defeated the U.S. earlier in the day.

Dodds and Mouat, who entered the field as favorites, shook hands with the Wrana siblings with one end still to play. Sweden’s brother-and-sister combo grew up as rivals and now they could win gold together.

“We knew that we had to play our best game of the week to have a chance to beat Great Britain because they’re so good," Rasmus Wrana said.

Asked how they came back from three losses in a row earlier in the round robin, Isabella Wrana said: “Mixed doubles, anything can happen.”

Italy will take on Britain in the bronze-medal match a few hours before the final.

In mixed doubles curling, teams with one woman and one man face off against one another.

AP Olympics: https://apnews.com/hub/milan-cortina-2026-winter-olympics

United States' Korey Dropkin reacts following the semi-finals round of the mixed doubles curling match against Italy, at the 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Monday, Feb. 9, 2026. (AP Photo/Fatima Shbair)

United States' Korey Dropkin reacts following the semi-finals round of the mixed doubles curling match against Italy, at the 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Monday, Feb. 9, 2026. (AP Photo/Fatima Shbair)

United States' Korey Dropkin, left, and United States' Cory Thiesse react following their semi-finals round of the mixed doubles curling match against Italy, at the 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Monday, Feb. 9, 2026. (AP Photo/Fatima Shbair)

United States' Korey Dropkin, left, and United States' Cory Thiesse react following their semi-finals round of the mixed doubles curling match against Italy, at the 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Monday, Feb. 9, 2026. (AP Photo/Fatima Shbair)

United States' Korey Dropkin and United States' Cory Thiesse hug after winning the semi-finals round of the mixed doubles curling match against Italy, at the 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Monday, Feb. 9, 2026. (AP Photo/Misper Apawu)

United States' Korey Dropkin and United States' Cory Thiesse hug after winning the semi-finals round of the mixed doubles curling match against Italy, at the 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Monday, Feb. 9, 2026. (AP Photo/Misper Apawu)

Sweden's Rasmus Wranaa reacts during the semi-finals round of the mixed doubles curling match against Britain, at the 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Monday, Feb. 9, 2026. (AP Photo/Fatima Shbair)

Sweden's Rasmus Wranaa reacts during the semi-finals round of the mixed doubles curling match against Britain, at the 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Monday, Feb. 9, 2026. (AP Photo/Fatima Shbair)

Sweden's Rasmus Wranaa hugs Isabella Wranaa during the semi-finals round of the mixed doubles curling match against Britain, at the 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Monday, Feb. 9, 2026. (AP Photo/Fatima Shbair)

Sweden's Rasmus Wranaa hugs Isabella Wranaa during the semi-finals round of the mixed doubles curling match against Britain, at the 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Monday, Feb. 9, 2026. (AP Photo/Fatima Shbair)

United States' Korey Dropkin, left, and United States' Cory Thiesse react following the semi-finals round of the mixed doubles curling match against Italy, at the 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Monday, Feb. 9, 2026. (AP Photo/Fatima Shbair)

United States' Korey Dropkin, left, and United States' Cory Thiesse react following the semi-finals round of the mixed doubles curling match against Italy, at the 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, Monday, Feb. 9, 2026. (AP Photo/Fatima Shbair)

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