Latest news with #Gopher
Martechvibe
a day ago
- Business
- Martechvibe
Does GEO Render Traditional SEO Redundant?
In the 1990s, the web was a fragmented space. Users relied on manually curated directories like Yahoo! or early tools like Archi, which indexed FTP and Gopher servers, and the focus was on file names rather than full content. Then, search engines like AltaVista, Lycos, and Ask Jeeves introduced algorithmic indexing. The launch of Google in 1998 with its PageRank algorithm introduced the idea of link authority. By 2010, search engines began understanding context and intent, not just keywords. Fast-forward to now: According to recent research by Bain & Company , 80% of people use AI-generated answers for at least 40% of their online searches. That means fewer clicks, even if the content still ranks well on Google. Tools like ChatGPT and Perplexity are giving users fast and direct answers. These tools rely on Generative Engine Optimisation (GEO), an approach focused on ensuring the content is visible in AI-generated responses. As this new battleground for GEO heats up, solutions are in high demand. Berlin-based startup Peec AI is tapping right into that need, and investors are paying attention. Just five months after its launch, Peec AI has raised €7 million to expand its AI-powered search platform designed specifically for marketing teams eager to boost their GEO visibility. The Engine Behind GEO While SEO is built around keywords, backlinks, and metadata to help pages rank in search results, GEO is designed for AI-first environments, where the goal is not just visibility on a results page but inclusion in the answer itself. These systems crawl the web much like traditional search engines, but instead of indexing pages based on keywords alone, they convert content into semantic embeddings using LLMs. The embeddings capture the underlying meaning of text, allowing the system to understand nuance, tone, and context far beyond keyword-based systems. So, when a user asks a question, GEO platforms perform a real-time semantic search , not just scanning for matching words, but for matching ideas. From there, they use a process called Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) . The AI retrieves the most semantically relevant content from its database and then generates a response based on that information. It ensures the answer is both contextually accurate and grounded in real data. Well, GEO is assumingly all-powerful. Instead of pointing users to websites, it delivers fully formed, AI-crafted answers that summarise or synthesise the best available information. That's a huge shift in how content gets consumed, and by extension, how it needs to be created. Now, here's the nail-biting question – Is GEO replacing SEO? Not entirely . SEO to GEO: What Has Actually Changed? Traditional search engines like Google monetise user attention. They showed ads, tracked engagement, and optimised for stickiness. In contrast, many LLMs — including ChatGPT — are paywalled, subscription-based services. Their incentives are totally different. Rather than keeping users in a loop of search results, these systems are designed to deliver the best possible answer quickly and efficiently. That also means they're less likely to reference third-party content unless it's high-value, additive, or enhances the perceived intelligence of the product. This makes the competition for inclusion even tighter and more strategic. That said, there are emerging signs that AI platforms can become meaningful traffic drivers. ChatGPT, for example, is already directing outbound clicks to tens of thousands of unique domains. But the mechanism is selective, not exhaustive. Natasha Sommerfeld, Partner at Bain & Company, stated in a report , 'For years, digital marketers have focused on optimising search engine rankings to drive brand discoverability and traffic to their websites.' 'Now, AI-generated search results are rewriting the rules, and SEO optimisation is no longer enough. Brands must evolve or risk losing visibility into their customer journey, and control over their brand positioning, in a world where traditional clicks are disappearing.' This change ties into a bigger challenge. A recent American Customer Satisfaction Index study found that just two years ago, customer satisfaction in the US hit its lowest point in 20 years. That's a sign that people expect faster, more accurate answers. And they're also turning to AI to get them. For content marketers, it's no longer just about ranking. It's about being found, quoted, or summarised in the answers people now trust. What Marketers Need to Do Differently Now It's a fundamental shift in how digital interaction is approached—no longer just about helping users find information, but about making them feel understood . GEO leverages AI to move beyond reactive search and static content delivery. Instead, it uses predictive modelling, contextual awareness, and behavioural analysis to anticipate what users might need before they even ask. Unlike traditional search engines that direct users to websites, generative AI tools aim to provide direct answers. That means if a brand's content isn't being picked up, summarised, or cited by these tools, it may be missing out on visibility—and potentially, on customer trust. Companies like Onfolio Holdings Inc., Amsive, Lily AI, and others have started offering new solutions to help marketers show up in AI-generated answers. During the launch of Pace Generative , Dominic Wells, CEO of Onfolio Holdings Inc., said, 'AI is where decisions are being made. If your brand isn't part of the answers, it's invisible to the customer. GEO isn't just an evolution of search—it's the new baseline for discoverability.' To succeed, content marketers need to focus on: Clarity : Write with purpose and make sure the key points are easy to extract. Credibility : Use trusted sources, original insights, and brand authority. Structure : Organise content with clear headings, definitions, and data points AI can parse easily. Instead of only chasing keywords or backlinks, the new goal is to become the source that AI engines trust and surface when users ask questions. That's the true shift from SEO to GEO. The Takeaway: It's Time to Evolve the Search Strategy Search is changing fast, and so should every brand's approach. If a brand's content isn't showing up in AI answers, it's already falling behind. During the recent launch , Lily Ray, VP of SEO Strategy & Research at Amsive, said, 'AI is fundamentally rewriting the rules of search, and waiting to adapt is not a strategy. Brands that aren't proactively optimising for how AI systems surface information risk losing visibility where it matters most.' And marketers are also starting to act. A recent report by Brightedge found that 68% of marketers are already adjusting their strategies for AI search, even though 57% say they're still figuring it out. It's clear: no one has all the answers yet, but standing still isn't an option. While GEO isn't here to replace SEO overnight, it's adding a new layer of visibility that's quickly becoming essential. Can brands keep pace when the algorithm is both gatekeeper and storyteller? The AI engine doesn't just index content, it decides what matters, what doesn't, and what gets erased. So yes, the search is changing. The real challenge is to make sure the brand's voice still shows up when the answer lands. ALSO READ: AI as the UA Optimiser: Smarter Targeting, Faster Iteration
Yahoo
12-06-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Pet of the Day: Go for the golden Gopher!
BURLINGTON, N.C. (WGHP) — Meet Gopher, our FOX8 Pet of the Day! If you're interested in adopting this pet or any other pets at Burlington Animal Services, please call (336) 578-0343 or visit the . Burlington Animal Services is located at 221 Stone Quarry Road in Burlington. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
06-06-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Multiple Insiders Still See Kirk Cousins Landing Back in Minnesota
It has become clear over the last couple months that the Minnesota Vikings intend to roll with 2024 1st round draft pick J.J. McCarthy as their 2025 starting quarterback. This, after his opportunity to compete for the same role in 2024 was stripped away by to a season-ending meniscus tear during his first NFL preseason game. On the QB depth chart, behind McCarthy, you'll find a bunch of unproven sub-28-year-olds. The vet in the room is Brett Rypien (4 starts – 28 y/o). Competing with him for Minnesota's QB2 job is newly acquired Sam Howell (18 starts – 24 y/o). They also signed one-and-done Gopher, Max Brosmer. Sam Darnold signed with the Seattle Seahawks and Daniel Jones went to the Indianapolis Colts. Advertisement The acquisition of former Washington Commanders quarterback Sam Howell seemingly shored up the backup spot. Aaron Rodgers, as much as he wants to play for Minnesota, isn't coming to sit on the bench. A few insiders still aren't sold that Kirk Cousins wouldn't be best suited to hold McCarthy's clipboard though. Minnesota Vikings still tabbed as trade partner for Kirk Cousins Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images It's beyond obvious that Kirk Cousins wants out of Atlanta. He signed with the Falcons last offseason after again chasing a payday. The franchise then drafted his replacement with their first round pick and things have gone downhill since. It would behoove the Falcons to move Cousins elsewhere, but they need a willing trade partner. Advertisement ESPN Insider Dan Graziano remains convinced that the Minnesota Vikings are the best fit for Cousins, if he is willing to accept a backup role at a soft landing spot with his former team, in order to escape Atlanta. Falcons get: 2026 fifth-round pick, 2027 seventh-round pick and cash considerations Vikings get: Kirk Cousins Well, it makes sense for all three sides, really, counting Cousins himself. He wants a chance to start and could use his no-trade clause to nix a deal to any place he doesn't want to go. But if he has to be a backup, we know he liked living in Minnesota and playing for the Vikings. Plus, J.J. McCarthy is still an unknown after his major knee injury, so maybe this could turn into more than just a QB2 destination. In this scenario, the Vikings would agree to pay $10 million of the guaranteed money on Cousins' contract for 2025. Dan Graziano – ESPN After the MN Vikings missed out on their preferred veteran free agent QB options — Sam Darnold signed with Seattle and Daniel Jones inked a deal in Indy — O'Connell and GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah doubled down on their commitment to JJ, focusing on bolstering everything around the quarterback room, instead of building reliable depth within it. Related: Justin Jefferson Reveals Why He Attended Minnesota Vikings OTAs In the backfield, they added Jordan Mason as the perfect tag-team partner for Aaron Jones. Most importantly, they beefed up the interior of the offensive line, signing veteran Colts center Ryan Kelly, who then helped them ink young stud guard, Will Fries, to place on his right side. Second ESPN insider likes Minnesota Vikings + Kirk Cousins too… After that, they put the cherry on top by selecting Donovan Jackson with the No. 23 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. But are all of these offensive improvements enough to keep the Minnesota Vikings afloat, should JJ McCarthy injure himself yet again? Graziano's ESPN colleague, Seth Wilder, believes (yet again) that Kirk Cousins is the remedy KOC & Co. need. Falcons get: QB Sam Howell, cash considerations Vikings get: Kirk Cousins The key to the compensation for a Cousins deal is how much of his guaranteed money the acquiring team will take on. I'll raise Dan's offer and say the Vikings pay $12 million of it. This would allow Atlanta to save a little face and get out of the situation with a different backup quarterback. For Minnesota, the upgrade at backup QB is more important because of the McCarthy situation. Cousins will have to accept a lesser role with his old team, but at least he'd be reunited with coach Kevin O'Connell. Seth Walder – ESPN Advertisement Realistically, the Minnesota Vikings hold all the cards here. They don't need to pay the freight it would currently take to rescue Kirk Cousins from the money he chased in Atlanta. We've seen Kevin O'Connell work his magic with QB's much worse than Sam Howell and Brett Rypien. Sure, Kirk Cousins would put the Vikings' quarterback room in another stratosphere, but there are plenty of downsides to consider too. Most notably, he could also become an unnecessary distraction for McCarthy and his QB development. Are these insiders fortelling us something…? Despite playing just 14 games last season, Cousins' 16 interceptions led the NFL. Nonetheless, his 66.9% completion rate was among the league's best. He also racked up 3,508 yards and 18 touchdowns. Even at 37 years old, few doubt that Kirk still has the capability to be a more than competent QB. Advertisement But therein lies the problem for the Vikings. Having Kirk available to take over, in case of an unfortunate event, would be ideal. On the other hand, what if McCarthy remains healthy… is Cousins too good and too proven to be his backup? Related: Minnesota Vikings Legend Jim Marshall Passes Away Do we want JJ looking over his shoulder at Kirk Cousins, any time he trips up or has a bad game? This kid represents both the present and future for this organizaiton. If there is any concern that Kirk's presence would put his development in danger, the the Minnesota Vikings need to tread lightly. At this point, a trade for Cousins would be pretty shocking.. Of course, that's mostly due to what it would cost to get him and pay him. Should the Atlanta Falcons decide to lower their ask and take on more money to cut him loose, then the conversation could change quickly. Advertisement Related Headlines
Yahoo
06-06-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Minnesota Gophers Legend Signs Another Early Contract Extension with Ravens
They are much fewer and further between than back in the Minnesota Gophers glory days of football yesteryear, when Dinkytown developed NFL Hall of Famers like Bronko Nagurski (1927-29), Carl Eller (1961-63), Bobby Bell (1960-62) and the campus GOAT, Bud Grant (1946-49) — who lettered in three sports at the U of M before he graduated in 1950 and drafted by both the Eagles (NFL – No. 14 overall) and Lakers (NBA – No. 47 overall). But the Minnesota Gophers football program has still rolled out some impressive NFL players over the past 50 years, some eras more than others. Since PJ Fleck took over in 2017, the path from Dinkytown to the league has been busier than any other time in modern program history (20 drafted players). Advertisement But just like the athletic facilities at the University of Minnesota, the professional pipeline project on campus started with PJ's predecessors, Jerry Kill and Tracy Claeys, who were hired on in 2011 and sent eight players to the NFL via the draft, from 2014-2016. That's 28 players drafted to the NFL in 11 years (2014-25). Credit: Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images For context, the Minnesota Gophers had just 14 guys drafted to the NFL, in the 11 years prior from 2002-2013. In that tumultuous time, Glen Mason was fired (after 2006), Tim Brewster was hired (2007) and fired (2010), before Kill came along. Some of the most notable names drafted over the last decade include (DB) Antoine Winfield Jr., (C) John Michael Schmitz, (T) Daniel Faalele, (EDGE) Boye Mafe, (LB) Blake Cashman and (WR) Rashod Bateman — who caught 147 passes for 2,395 yards and 19 touchdowns in 31 games as a Gopher from 2018-2020 — including one season that only lasted five games, due to a shortened season and opt-out controversies. Baltimore Ravens lock up Minnesota Gophers legend, Rashod Bateman Rashod Bateman entered the 2020 NFL Draft, where he was selected No. 27 overall by the Baltimore Ravens, becoming the only 1st round pick out of Minnesota since Laurence Maroney was drafted No. 21 overall in 2006 and just the 18th Gopher ever picked in the first round of the NFL Draft. Advertisement After a successful start to his NFL career, the Ravens ripped up Rashod's rookie contract two years early, when they signed the Minnesota Gophers legend to a $12.8 million extension last offseason, good through 2026. Now, just one year later, Bateman has agreed to another contract extension in Baltimore, this time worth three years, $36.75 million ($20M guaranteed), according to NFL Network's Mike Garafolo. While everyone was focused on what Derrick Henry did for the 2024 Ravens offense, last year, it was Rashod Bateman who gave Jackson a reliable touchdown target through the air, something he has struggled to find in a wide receiver, throughout his MVP career. Advertisement Related: Minnesota Gophers Add Talented Big Ten Lineman to Defense In total, Bateman has played 51 games for Baltimore, piling up 1,923 yards and 13 touchdowns on 138 receptions. Last season, the Tifton, GA native posted a career-high 756 receiving yards on 45 receptions. He also exploded for NINE touchdowns. Bateman and the Ravens visit the Minnesota Vikings in Week 10. The former Minnesota Gophers standout will have a homecoming of sorts on November 9 at U.S. Bank Stadium. Bateman's 1,219 yards and 20.3 yards per reception in 2019 as a sophomore with Minnesota both led the Big Ten. Related Headlines
New York Post
21-05-2025
- Sport
- New York Post
Runner who died in Brooklyn Half Marathon revealed to be former University of Minnesota football player
The runner who died during the Brooklyn Half Marathon on Saturday was revealed to be a former college football player. Charles Rogers, 31, started his college football career as a defensive back at Iowa State in 2012 and later transferred to Minnesota in 2015. After injuries cut his 2015 season short and took him out for the following year, Rogers transferred to Lindenwood University in Missouri before retiring from the sport. Advertisement 3 Charles Rogers died on Saturday after going into cardiac arrest and collapsing. Charles Rogers/Facebook 'Our hearts are broken as former Gopher Charles Rogers tragically passed over the weekend while running the Brooklyn Marathon,' the Minnesota football team wrote on Instagram. 'Our thoughts are with the Rogers family and all of his loved ones.' Lindenwood football also posted a heartfelt message for their former player. Advertisement 3 Charles Rogers played college football at various schools before becoming an avid runner. NYRR 'The Lindenwood Football family mourns the loss of Ace Rogers,' the team wrote on social media on Sunday. 'Our thoughts & prayers go out to his wife Sydney, his parents Teresa Jordan & Charles Rogers, and the rest of his family.' Rogers reportedly went into cardiac arrest and collapsed at Ocean Parkway and 18th Avenue around 8:11 a.m. Saturday, officials said. 3 Charles Rogers and his wife, Sydney Rogers. Charles Rogers/Facebook Advertisement He was around mile 8 of the course. His wife, Sydney Rogers, spoke with The Post after the tragic incident. 'Charles put everything he had into everything he did,' she said. 'While he leaves behind a wife and family that already miss him terribly, he loved being competitive and left us being 100% himself.'
