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		<title>Former Raiders running back Pete Banaszak dies aged 82</title>
		<link>https://2thesports.com/former-raiders-running-back-pete-banaszak-dies-aged-82/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Muhammad Imran Khan]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sat, 24 Oct 2026 21:49:28 +0000</pubDate>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://2thesports.com/former-raiders-running-back-pete-banaszak-dies-aged-82/</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[The Las Vegas Raiders have announced the passing of legendary running back Pete Banaszak, who spent his entire professional career with the franchise.]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Las Vegas Raiders have confirmed the death of former running back Pete Banaszak, who passed away at the age of 82. The franchise announced the news on Saturday, paying tribute to a player who served as a cornerstone of their organisation for over a decade.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">In an official statement, the Raiders expressed their collective grief, noting that Banaszak’s toughness and competitive spirit defined a legendary era for the team. The organisation extended its deepest condolences to his wife, Sue, his daughters, and his grandchildren.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Banaszak’s professional journey began when the Raiders selected him in the fifth round of the 1966 American Football League draft. He remained with the team for the entirety of his career, eventually retiring following the conclusion of the 1978 season.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Throughout his tenure, Banaszak became a vital component of the Raiders&#039; offensive strategy. His most prolific campaign came in 1975, when he led the National Football League with 16 rushing touchdowns, a mark that still stands as a franchise record.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The running back was a key contributor to the Raiders’ success during the 1970s, playing a central role in the team&#039;s historic victory in Super Bowl XI. That triumph marked the first Super Bowl championship in the history of the franchise.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Across his 13-season career, Banaszak appeared in 173 regular-season games for the Raiders. He is also remembered for his involvement in the famous &#039;Holy Roller&#039; play, an iconic moment in NFL history that solidified his reputation as a gritty competitor.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">A native of Wisconsin, Banaszak’s contributions to the sport were recognised beyond his immediate team achievements. In 1990, he was formally inducted into the National Polish-American Sports Hall of Fame, honouring his athletic legacy.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Raiders&#039; statement highlighted that Banaszak’s dedication to the &#039;Silver and Black&#039; made him a cherished member of the organisation. His career spanned a transformative period for the franchise as they established themselves as a powerhouse in the league.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Banaszak’s ability to find the end zone consistently made him a fan favourite during his playing days. His record-setting 1975 season remains a testament to his effectiveness as a goal-line specialist and a reliable backfield option.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The passing of Banaszak marks the loss of a significant figure from a golden era of Raiders football. His legacy continues to be celebrated by the &#039;Raider Nation&#039; and those who followed the team during his time on the field.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As the NFL community reflects on his life, tributes have poured in for the former running back. His impact on the game, particularly through his long-standing loyalty to a single franchise, remains a notable aspect of his professional story.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Banaszak’s career statistics and his role in the Raiders&#039; first Super Bowl win ensure his place in the team&#039;s history. He leaves behind a family that includes his wife, two daughters, and three grandsons.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Raiders have not released further details regarding memorial arrangements at this time. Fans and former teammates have taken to social media to share memories of his playing style and his character off the field.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Banaszak’s journey from a fifth-round draft pick to a franchise record-holder serves as an example of perseverance. His 173 appearances for the Raiders demonstrate the durability and commitment he brought to the sport throughout the 1960s and 1970s.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The &#039;Holy Roller&#039; play, in which Banaszak was involved, remains one of the most discussed incidents in league history. It serves as a reminder of the unpredictable and exciting nature of the games he participated in during his prime.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">His induction into the National Polish-American Sports Hall of Fame serves as a broader recognition of his athletic achievements. It highlights the impact he had on the sporting landscape during his time as a professional athlete.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Raiders continue to honour the players who built the foundation of the franchise. Banaszak’s name will undoubtedly remain linked to the team&#039;s early success and the identity they forged during his thirteen years of service.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As the team prepares for its upcoming fixtures, the loss of such a significant historical figure will be felt throughout the organisation. The legacy of Pete Banaszak remains firmly etched in the annals of Raiders football history.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">His career, which spanned from the AFL era into the modern NFL, reflects the evolution of the game. Banaszak’s ability to adapt and perform at a high level for over a decade remains a highlight of his professional life.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The sports world mourns a player who embodied the spirit of his team. Pete Banaszak will be remembered for his contributions to the Raiders, his record-breaking 1975 season, and his role in the franchise’s first championship victory.</p>
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		<title>Rams WR Puka Nacua questionable for Raiders clash with calf injury</title>
		<link>https://2thesports.com/rams-wr-puka-nacua-questionable-for-raiders-clash-with-calf-injury/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Muhammad Imran Khan]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 23 Oct 2026 20:50:16 +0000</pubDate>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://2thesports.com/rams-wr-puka-nacua-questionable-for-raiders-clash-with-calf-injury/</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Las Vegas Raiders after sustaining a calf injury during practice.]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Los Angeles Rams are facing a significant personnel challenge ahead of their Week 7 encounter with the Las Vegas Raiders. Star wide receiver Puka Nacua has been officially listed as questionable for the Sunday fixture due to a calf injury.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Head coach Sean McVay confirmed that Nacua did not participate in Friday&#039;s practice session. The receiver had been involved in the majority of Thursday&#039;s practice before being forced to exit the field prematurely due to the discomfort.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">McVay noted that there was no singular, identifiable play that caused the injury. Instead, the player reported a sensation in his calf that prevented him from maintaining his usual level of explosive power and movement during drills.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Rams&#039; medical staff and coaching team plan to evaluate Nacua on the field prior to kickoff on Sunday. This assessment will be the deciding factor in determining whether he is fit to take part in the game at Allegiant Stadium.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">This development comes at a difficult time for the Rams, who are currently navigating a 2-4 start to the season. The team is already dealing with the absence of wide receiver Davante Adams, who is sidelined for six to 10 weeks with a hamstring injury.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Nacua has been a focal point of the Rams&#039; offensive strategy this season. In his four appearances, the 25-year-old has recorded 37 receptions for 417 yards and one touchdown, continuing his role as a key target for quarterback Matthew Stafford.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The receiver has previously dealt with health setbacks this season, having missed the Rams&#039; Week 2 and Week 3 games due to a psoas injury. His current status adds further uncertainty to a receiving corps already stretched thin by recent absences.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Beyond Nacua, the Rams&#039; injury report includes other critical concerns. Cornerback Trent McDuffie is also listed as questionable for the Raiders game after missing practice time throughout the week due to a groin injury.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Furthermore, the team has officially ruled out inside linebacker Nate Landman for the upcoming contest. Landman is currently unavailable as he continues to progress through the NFL&#039;s mandatory concussion protocol following a recent injury.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Rams&#039; roster depth will be tested as they prepare for the matchup in Las Vegas. Other wide receivers available to the team include Konata Mumpfield, Jordan Whittington, Tutu Atwell, CJ Daniels, and Alex Bachman.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Raiders are also managing their own injury concerns heading into the weekend. Running back Mike Washington Jr. is listed as questionable due to foot and back issues, while players like Dont&#039;e Thornton and Carter Runyon remain on injured reserve.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Rams&#039; season has been marked by high expectations that have yet to be met on the field. With a 2-4 record, the team is under pressure to secure a victory against the Raiders to improve their standing in the conference.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As the team prepares for the Sunday afternoon kickoff at 4:25 p.m. ET, the focus remains on the final fitness tests for both Nacua and McDuffie. Their potential absence would require significant adjustments to the team&#039;s game plan.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Rams&#039; coaching staff has emphasized the importance of their remaining depth players stepping up during this period of injury-related adversity. The team remains committed to evaluating all options to ensure they are competitive against the Raiders.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The NFL&#039;s Week 7 schedule features several high-stakes matchups, but the health of the Rams&#039; offensive stars has become a primary talking point. Fans and analysts alike are awaiting official word on the lineup closer to game time.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Rams&#039; performance this season has been closely scrutinized, and the ability to overcome these personnel hurdles will be a defining factor in their upcoming games. The team&#039;s resilience will be tested in the hostile environment of Allegiant Stadium.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">While the injury to Nacua is a concern, initial reports have suggested that the issue is considered relatively minor. However, the team is exercising caution to avoid any long-term complications for the wide receiver.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Rams&#039; front office and coaching staff continue to monitor the situation closely. Any further updates regarding the active roster will be provided by the team as they approach the final preparations for the Sunday clash.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As the Rams look to turn their season around, the availability of their key playmakers remains essential. The team&#039;s ability to adapt to these injuries will likely determine their success in the coming weeks of the NFL campaign.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The upcoming game against the Las Vegas Raiders represents a crucial opportunity for the Rams to regain momentum. Despite the injury challenges, the team is focused on executing their strategy and securing a much-needed win on the road.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
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		<title>Josh Allen leads Bills to 33-30 victory over Raiders in Las Vegas</title>
		<link>https://2thesports.com/josh-allen-leads-bills-to-33-30-victory-over-raiders-in-las-vegas/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Muhammad Imran Khan]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 19 Oct 2026 23:48:49 +0000</pubDate>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://2thesports.com/josh-allen-leads-bills-to-33-30-victory-over-raiders-in-las-vegas/</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen threw for two touchdowns and 255 yards as his team overcame the Las Vegas Raiders in a high-scoring road contest.]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Buffalo Bills secured a hard-fought 33-30 victory against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium on Sunday. The game was marked by an intense atmosphere, with a significant number of travelling Buffalo supporters creating a home-like environment for the visitors.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Quarterback Josh Allen delivered a standout performance, throwing for 255 yards and two touchdowns. His ability to navigate pressure and extend plays remained a focal point of the Buffalo offensive strategy throughout the afternoon as they edged out their opponents.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">A defining moment occurred midway through the third quarter when Allen executed an acrobatic play to find receiver Keon Coleman for a touchdown. Despite being hit and spun around by defenders, Allen managed to complete a 12-yard shovel pass.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Allen admitted after the match that the crowd noise made it difficult to discern the outcome of the play immediately. With the stadium filled with Bills fans, the roar of the crowd left him uncertain whether he had scored.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The quarterback explained that the intensity of the road atmosphere often mimics home games for the Bills. He credited the supporters for their consistent presence and energy, which he felt significantly impacted the team&#039;s ability to maintain their offensive momentum.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Running back James Cook III was instrumental in the offensive effort, contributing 153 scrimmage yards. Cook praised the travelling fanbase, noting that their dedication is a consistent feature of the team&#039;s away games throughout the current NFL season.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Teammates were quick to praise Allen&#039;s unique playmaking abilities following the game. Left tackle Dion Dawkins expressed admiration for the quarterback&#039;s performance, highlighting the rare nature of the skills Allen displays on the field during high-pressure situations.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Dawkins remarked that while he tries to remain focused during the game, Allen’s circus-act plays often leave even seasoned teammates in awe. He described the quarterback&#039;s impact as being evident in real-time during the high-stakes matchup against the Raiders.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The victory serves as a significant result for the Bills as they continue their campaign. The team&#039;s ability to perform under pressure in a hostile environment has been a recurring theme in their recent outings across the league.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Raiders, meanwhile, struggled to contain the Buffalo offense despite playing in front of their home crowd. The defensive unit faced challenges in limiting Allen’s mobility and his connection with his receiving corps throughout the four quarters of play.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Allen’s performance has further solidified his standing as a central figure in the league. His ability to generate MVP chants even while playing as a visitor underscores his growing influence and popularity among NFL fans across the country.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The game highlights the offensive firepower that the Bills have cultivated this season. By balancing a strong rushing attack with Allen’s passing efficiency, the team has remained competitive against challenging opponents in what has been a demanding schedule.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As the season progresses, the Bills will look to build on this momentum. The win in Las Vegas provides a crucial boost to their standings and demonstrates their resilience in tight, high-scoring encounters against formidable defensive units.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The atmosphere at Allegiant Stadium was noted by players on both sides as being particularly vibrant. The presence of such a large contingent of away fans added a layer of complexity to the game&#039;s tactical execution for the Raiders.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Buffalo&#039;s coaching staff will likely review the tape of the third-quarter touchdown to analyze the mechanics of Allen’s shovel pass. The play has already been highlighted by analysts as one of the most impressive moments of the week.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">For the Raiders, the focus will shift to defensive adjustments following the narrow loss. Managing mobile quarterbacks remains a priority for the team as they prepare for their upcoming fixtures in the remainder of the NFL season.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Bills&#039; ability to secure points in critical situations proved to be the difference in the final scoreline. Their efficiency in the red zone was a key factor in overcoming the Raiders&#039; defensive efforts in the second half.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Fans and analysts alike have taken note of the chemistry between Allen and his receivers. The connection with Keon Coleman, in particular, has become a reliable asset for the Buffalo passing game during this stretch of the season.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As the NFL season enters its next phase, the Bills appear well-positioned to challenge for top honors. Their performance against the Raiders serves as a testament to their preparation and execution in a hostile road environment.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The team will now turn their attention to their next opponent, aiming to maintain the consistency that defined their victory in Las Vegas. The focus remains on refining their game plan for the challenges that lie ahead.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
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		<title>Bills Safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson Suspended One Game for Spitting</title>
		<link>https://2thesports.com/bills-safety-c-j-gardner-johnson-suspended-one-game-for-spitting/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Muhammad Imran Khan]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 19 Oct 2026 21:49:24 +0000</pubDate>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://2thesports.com/bills-safety-c-j-gardner-johnson-suspended-one-game-for-spitting/</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Buffalo Bills safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson has been suspended for one game without pay by the NFL following an ejection for spitting.]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Buffalo Bills safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson has been officially suspended for one game without pay by the National Football League following a controversial incident during Sunday&#039;s thrilling victory against the Las Vegas Raiders. Television cameras captured the veteran defensive player spitting toward opponents near the end of the first half at Allegiant Stadium.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The league announced the disciplinary action on Monday morning, confirming that the defensive back violated Rule 12, Section 3, Article 1 of the official rulebook. This specific regulation strictly penalises any act considered contrary to the generally understood principles of sportsmanship on the professional football field.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Barring a successful appeal through official channels, the suspension will rule the safety out of Buffalo&#039;s upcoming fixture against the Baltimore Ravens. The franchise is currently navigating a scheduled bye week, meaning the player will miss valuable preparation time ahead of that crucial matchup.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Any formal appeal submitted by the player would be reviewed by a specialized panel consisting of Derrick Brooks, Jordy Nelson, Ron Rivera, or James Thrash. These designated panel members are jointly appointed and compensated by both the National Football League and the National Football League Players Association.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The unsportsmanlike incident occurred late in the second quarter of Buffalo&#039;s hard-fought 33-30 victory over Las Vegas. Gardner-Johnson became embroiled in a heated verbal altercation with several Raiders players, most notably tight end Brock Bowers and center Tyler Linderbaum, shortly before the halftime interval.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Referee Shawn Smith confirmed via an official pool report that umpire Tra Blake directly witnessed the safety spitting in the direction of Bowers. That clear visual confirmation triggered an immediate ejection from the contest, forcing the defensive coaching staff into sudden personnel adjustments on the sideline.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Following the conclusion of the dramatic match, Gardner-Johnson addressed members of the media and offered an immediate apology to his teammates. The 28-year-old acknowledged candidly that his actions fell far short of the required standards for a professional athlete and a senior leader.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The defender stated firmly that he needed to handle the situation like a grown man and accept the subsequent consequences without hesitation. He admitted that such behavior has no place within a competitive sporting environment and expressed deep regret over letting down his colleagues.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Later on Sunday evening, the defensive back published a formal statement on social media to broaden his apology. He reached out directly to his opponent, the coaching staff, the organization, and the supporters of the franchise who follow the team closely every week.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">In his online message, the player noted that while his passion and competitive nature have always defined his career, he fully understood that a definitive line must never be crossed. He conceded that the gesture was inappropriate, unnecessary, and lacked proper respect.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Buffalo head coach Joe Brady addressed the suspension during his scheduled media availability on Monday morning. Brady described the player&#039;s actions as completely inexcusable and confirmed that the internal matter had been thoroughly discussed behind closed doors within the organization.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">However, the head coach also made it abundantly clear that the franchise remains firmly committed to the safety as a starter. Once he becomes eligible to return from his mandated suspension, the team expects him to resume his normal role in the defensive secondary.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Brady emphasized during his press conference that the team cannot afford to lose personnel needlessly during a demanding regular season schedule. He pointed out that winning games in the league is already difficult enough with a full complement of active players available.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The coach stressed that the established standard for discipline must be maintained moving forward without compromising the fierce competitive edge of the squad. He noted that the team wants to toe the line aggressively in everything they do without ever crossing it improperly.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Discussing Gardner-Johnson&#039;s well-documented reputation as a combative trash-talker, Brady defended the strategic decision to bring him to Buffalo. The player signed a lucrative one-year contract with the franchise in March after previously winning a Super Bowl title with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2024.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Brady stated clearly that he does not require every individual on the roster to conform to the exact same personality profile. The coach indicated that having diverse personalities can benefit a locker room as long as players maintain their discipline during high-pressure moments.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The coach reiterated that while the player crossed an unacceptable boundary on Sunday afternoon, the franchise values competitive players who play near the edge. Brady expressed full confidence that the veteran defender has learned a valuable lesson from this disciplinary setback.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The team expects the safety to return completely focused upon serving the squad positively when he rejoins the active lineup in Week 9. Until then, the coaching staff will rely on depth players to fill the void left by his absence on the field.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">This disciplinary measure marks another notable chapter in the career of a player who has represented six different franchises across eight seasons in the professional league. Known primarily for his aggressive style and vocal presence, the safety had already received a costly 15-yard penalty in the previous week&#039;s fixture.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Sunday&#039;s ejection represented the first time Gardner-Johnson has been dismissed from a professional contest since the 2024 campaign. His physical style of play and tendency for verbal sparring have occasionally drawn scrutiny from officials throughout his nomadic professional journey across multiple teams.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Buffalo defense has otherwise put together a strong start to the current campaign, contributing significantly to the team&#039;s impressive five victories from their opening six encounters. Losing a starting safety for any duration presents a tactical challenge for the coaching staff during preparations.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Nevertheless, the organization intends to utilize the upcoming bye week to recalibrate their defensive strategies ahead of the demanding clash with Baltimore. Team officials hope the swift resolution of this disciplinary matter will allow the squad to maintain absolute focus.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Tight end Brock Bowers of the Las Vegas Raiders offered minimal insight into the immediate catalyst for the verbal confrontation when questioned by reporters. Bowers noted that the exchange involved standard competitive dialogue before the situation escalated unexpectedly near the end of the half.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Raiders tight end indicated that he was largely unaware of the physical gesture until game officials intervened directly on the field. Both players acknowledged the heated nature of the contest, but the subsequent league review confirmed the severity of the infraction.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The upcoming fixture against the Baltimore Ravens represents a crucial test for the Buffalo defense as they navigate the middle stages of the regular season calendar. Maintaining defensive discipline and execution will remain paramount for a team harboring championship aspirations.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Gardner-Johnson will be officially eligible to rejoin training facilities and resume team activities immediately following the completion of his one-game absence. The franchise is eager to put the distraction behind them and resume their pursuit of a deep postseason run.</p>
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