SI.com’s 10 most popular stories from the week ending Oct. 30
Here is a roundup of SI.com's 10 most popular stories this week. Be sure to read to the bottom for a bonus story from the SI Vault.
No Surrender
Dan Pelle/Associated Press
Jace Malek had just committed to play football at the University of Idaho when he got a life-threatening diagnosis. A year later, after his disease took a turn for the worse, he continues to fight and chase his football dream. By Zac Ellis.
One for Flip
Duane Burleson/Associated Press
Flip Saunders, the long-time coach of the Minnesota Timberwolves, passed away last week after losing his battle with cancer. On opening night against the Lakers, his old team made him proud. By Lee Jenkins.
The Flourishing World of Competitive Gaming
Courtesy of Riot Games
E-sports are filling arenas around the world and spawning a new generation of sports millionaires—but the competitors still only care about the game. By Stephanie Apstein.
Peterson's Unfamiliar Role
Rick Osentoski/Associated Press
Three seasons ago, Adrian Peterson finished nine yards shy of setting the NFL’s single-season rushing record. In some ways, the All-Pro is now relearning his position. By Robert Klemko.
70 Reasons to Watch the NBA
Brandon Dill/Associated Press
With the NBA tipping off its 70th season on Tuesday, here are 70 reasons to watch in 2015–16, in case Golden State’s title defense and another year of LeBron James’s greatness weren't enough for you. By Ben Golliver and Rob Mahoney.
Coaching Carousel
Wilfredo Lee/Associated Press
The firing of Miami coach Al Golden and retirement of Central Florida's George O'Leary on Sunday raised the total of open FBS coaching jobs to seven, and there are even more potential openings on the horizon. Campus Rush ranks the openings from best to worst. By Pete Thamel.
Jared Goff Projects to Stardom
Ric Tapia/Associated Press
Goff is expected to be the first quarterback off the board in April’s draft. Our expert, watching film of the Cal QB for the first time, liked what he saw over a three-game stretch. By Andy Benoit.
Abby Wambach Announces Retirement
Phelan M. Ebenhack/Associated Press
Thirteen years ago, Abby Wambach started her professional soccer career. She's gone on to score 184 goals for the U.S., win a World Cup and two Olympic gold medals. She capped off her decorated career at the right time and place. By Grant Wahl.
Series of the Strange
Bruce Lipsky/Associated Press
The yearly Florida vs. Georgia game has been dubbed the World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party. Throughout the history of the rivalry, there have been some strange moments. By Andy Staples.
Adapt or Die
Eric Gay/Associated Press
The San Antonio Spurs landed LaMarcus Aldridge this off-season, probably the most sought-after free agent in the NBA. By doing so, they remain an elite contender in the crowded West. By Chris Mannix.
SI Vault: The Left Arm of God
Neil Leifer/SI
Sandy Koufax was the first pitcher to throw four no-hitters and win three Cy Young awards. But he was more than just a perfect pitcher. Check out this story from the SI Vault, originally published on July 12, 1999. By Tom Verducci.
