Best settings for Nikon action shots?

I have a Nikon D3100 with a Tamron AF 70-200mm f/2.8 lens. What are the best settings to catch good action shots in daylight? Also, what settings to catch good action shots in the evening under stadium lights?

Nobody can tell you that, that's why you have manual controls.

Set the highest shutter speed you can get away with and hope.

To prevent motion blur, set the shutter speed at 1/500th second or faster.

To shoot under the lights, you will also need a fast lens, like the 300 mm f/2.8

Sample shot taken at 1/500th second @ f/2.8, shot at the peak of action

500 @ 5.6. Set the ISO get to that point.