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The World Cup is delivering early, and the United States is firmly in the driver's seat of their group thanks to two names you need to know. Folarin Balogun and Alex Freeman have looked completely at home on the biggest stage, giving the USMNT a commanding presence and real control over group play. This team is not just participating, they are pushing.
Speaking of World Cup dominance, Germany's Joshua Kimmich is doing what Kimmich does. The captain is leading the tournament in key passes, and after a seven-to-one demolition of Curacao in Houston, it is clear this German side is not easing into anything. Kimmich's engine and vision are running at full throttle, and the rest of the field should be paying very close attention.
Meanwhile back in Pittsburgh, the Steelers are being urged to address their safety position this offseason, with Sports Illustrated floating the idea of a Super Bowl champion coming to town if a blockbuster trade for Budda Baker falls through. The Steelers defense has always been their identity, and Pittsburgh's front office knows better than anyone that championship windows do not stay open forever.
That's your play-by-play. Sports Desk, back to the booth.
