Football
The Athletic Football Show: A show about the NFL
The Athletic
The Athletic’s flagship NFL podcast covers the league like only The Athletic can. Host Robert Mays and co-hosts Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman dive into the biggest stories, break down the Xs and Os, and tackle the ins and outs of roster building. They meticulously follow the details of why we all love this sport and have plenty of fun along the way, bringing the expertise necessary to cover the NFL at the highest level. You want year-round draft coverage? You'll get that here, too, with draft expert Dane Brugler. Whether it’s happening on the field or behind the scenes, you’ll get an in-depth look at all things NFL on The Athletic Football Show, available wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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First impressions of new units and faces after Week 1
11 sept. 20251h 2m<p>One of the best parts of Week 1 is that we finally get to see a bunch of new stuff in action. Like the Geno Smith/Chip Kelly offense in Las Vegas. Or Nick Caley running Houston's offense. Or Cam Ward playing in the NFL and Robert Saleh back with the 49ers. What are our first impressions of all these new things? Robert Mays and Dan Pizzuta of Snaps and Stats dig in on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Connect with The Athletic Football Show</p><p>X: <a href="https://x.com/TA_FootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://x.com/TA_FootballShow</a></p><p>IG: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow</a></p><p>YT: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow</a></p><p>TikTok: <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow</a></p><p>Discord: <a href="https://discord.gg/sPp5md3B" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://discord.gg/sPp5md3B</a></p><p>Call us: 847-448-0701</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>With: Dan Pizzuta</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dan on Bluesky: @danpizzuta.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Dan on X: @DanPizzuta</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
Building the Beast: John Mateer's big day, top-50 stock watch, Armand Membou's NFL debut, and more
10 sept. 20251h 12m<p>Week 2 of the college football season may not have had the marquee matchups that Week 1 did, but it still gave Dave Helman and Dane Brugler more than enough to talk about from an NFL Draft perspective. The guys dig into John Mateer's big day against Michigan, Sawyer Robertson's second straight strong showing against a power four team, Jordyn Tyson's hot start to the season, and a whole lot more on this episode of Building the Beast on The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>5:12 Game Ball: Oklahoma QB John Mateer</p><p>12:40 Game Ball: Oregon QB Dante Moore</p><p>18:40 Sawyer Robertson leads another big week for Baylor's draft prospects</p><p>28:45 I Was Not Familiar with Your Game: Cincinnati LB Jake Golday</p><p>34:23 Prospect Snapshot: Louisville WR Chris Bell</p><p>38:38 Prospect Snapshot: Texas A&M EDGE Cashius Howell</p><p>42:21 Top-50 Stock Watch: Sam Leavitt and Jordyn Tyson</p><p>46:13 Top-50 Stock Watch: USC WRs Makai Lemon and WR Ja’Kobi Lane</p><p>50:04 Top-50 Stock Watch: Iowa State DT Dominique Orange vs. Iowa C Logan Jones</p><p>56:40 NFL Rookie Watch: Browns LB Carson Schwesinger and Jets OT Armand Membou</p><p>1:05:33 Week 3 CFB preview</p><br><p><br></p><p>Host: Dave Helman</p><p>Co-Host: Dane Brugler</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Connect with The Athletic Football Show</p><p>X: <a href="https://x.com/TA_FootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://x.com/TA_FootballShow</a></p><p>IG: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow</a></p><p>YT: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow</a></p><p>TikTok: <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow</a></p><p>Discord: <a href="https://discord.gg/sPp5md3B" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://discord.gg/sPp5md3B</a></p><p>Call us: 847-448-0701</p><br><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><p>Follow Dane on X: @dpbrugler</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
The Week 1 Hangover: Giants-Commanders, Cardinals-Saints, and your sad voicemails
9 sept. 20251h 3m<p>Our return to five episodes per week means that the Weekly Hangover is back! Because look, Sundays are busy. We can't possibly talk about every game in the way that we'd like to on our Sunday night recaps. But we do still want to talk about every game. That's what the Hangover is for. In the Week 1 Hangover, Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen get to two games we didn't discuss on Sunday night—the Commanders' 21-6 win over the Giants and the Cardinals' 20-13 win over the Saints. Plus, we listen to some of the best voicemails we got on the TAFS voicemail line on Sunday.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>6:00 Commanders-Giants recap</p><p>31:50 Cardinals-Saints recap</p><p>56:02 Your sad voicemails</p><br><p>Connect with The Athletic Football Show</p><p>X: <a href="https://x.com/TA_FootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://x.com/TA_FootballShow</a></p><p>IG: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow</a></p><p>YT: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow</a></p><p>TikTok: <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow</a></p><p>Discord: <a href="https://discord.gg/sPp5md3B" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://discord.gg/sPp5md3B</a></p><p>Call us: 847-448-0701</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
Week 1 recap: Bills and Packers start the season off right
8 sept. 20251h 31m<p>Same Sunday night recap you know and love, brand spankin' new look. Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman celebrate the return of the NFL with the Week 1 recap episode of The Athletic Football Show, the first from our new studio in Chicago. The guys discuss the Bills' dramatic win over the Ravens, the Packers' dominant victory against the Lions, the Jets and Steelers—really!—giving us the most exciting game of the day, troubles for the Dolphins and Titans, and a whole lot more.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>5:30 Bills-Ravens thriller</p><p>15:15 Packers dominate Lions</p><p>27:40 Steelers-Jets fireworks!</p><p>39:00 Emeka Egbuka pays immediate dividends</p><p>49:00 Dolphins embarrassed by Colts</p><p>56:10 Titans fumble multiple chances to upset Broncos</p><p>1:05:00 Seahawks endgame leaves a bit to be desired</p><p>1:12:30 Bryce Young off to a rough start</p><p>1:16:05 The Bengals get away with one</p><p>1:22:15 Geno Smith starts his Raiders career with a bang</p><p>1:27:00 The Stafford/Davante connection</p><p>1:30:35 You can't ignore bad training camp vibes</p><br><p>Connect with The Athletic Football Show</p><p>X: <a href="https://x.com/TA_FootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://x.com/TA_FootballShow</a></p><p>IG: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow</a></p><p>YT: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow</a></p><p>TikTok: <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow</a></p><p>Discord: <a href="https://discord.gg/sPp5md3B" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://discord.gg/sPp5md3B</a></p><p>Call us: 847-448-0701</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
Cowboys-Eagles Week 1 TNF recap
5 sept. 202525 min<p>And with that, the 2025 NFL season is officially underway. Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman recap the Eagles' 24-20 season-opening win over the Cowboys on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Join our Discord: <a href="https://discord.gg/sPp5md3B" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://discord.gg/sPp5md3B</a></p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">YouTube</a></p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
What we're excited to watch in Week 1 + A new look for The Athletic Football Show
4 sept. 202548 min<p>Football friends, we have made it back to the start of another NFL season. We hope you enjoy the crazy six-month ride with us. To kick off the season, Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman highlight what they're excited to watch in Week 1 on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Join our Discord: <a href="https://discord.gg/npVXkk3c" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://discord.gg/npVXkk3c</a></p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">YouTube</a></p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>5:43 We're in studio!</p><p>9:57 Lamar vs. Josh</p><p>13:52 Chiefs-Chargers</p><p>21:50 The Ben Johnson Bears</p><p>27:53 Can the Giants front create the weird Week 1 game?</p><p>30:30 The sicko games on the noon slate</p><p>36:31 Proof-of-concept matchups (HOU OL vs. LAR DL, Raiders offense vs. Patriots defense)</p><p>38:30 The loaded afternoon slate</p><p>43:22 The potential uh-oh games</p><p>48:47 Aaron Rodgers vs. the Jets</p><p>52:00 Michael Penix Jr. vs. Todd Bowles</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
2025 NFL season predictions
3 sept. 20251h 29m<p>We've previewed every division. We've pondered every lingering question. We've analyzed every roster from top to bottom and back to the top, again. There's only one thing left to do. Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman offer up their awards, playoffs and Super Bowl predictions on this final preseason episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>4:35 Defensive Player of the Year</p><p>15:18 Offensive Player of the Year</p><p>23:09 Coach of the Year</p><p>36:40 Offensive Rookie of the Year</p><p>44:35 Defensive Rookie of the Year</p><p>48:49 Assistant Coach of the Year</p><p>55:03 Protector of the Year</p><p>58:47 MVP</p><p>1:07:07 NFC Playoff Picks</p><p>1:16:25 AFC Playoff Picks</p><p>1:21:46 Super Bowl picks</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">YouTube</a></p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
Building the Beast: First 2025 impressions of the draft-eligible quarterbacks
2 sept. 20251h 9m<p>We saw Arch Manning, Garrett Nussmeier and LaNorris Sellers all play in Week 1, to varying results. What are our first 2025 impressions of all of those quarterbacks? And who else should NFL Draft heads already be taking notice of this season? Dave Helman and Dane Brugler recap Week 1 of the CFB season on this episode of Building the Beast.</p><br><p>Hosts: Dave Helman and Dane Brugler</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">YouTube</a></p><br><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><p>Follow Dane on X: @dpbrugler</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
The TAFS 2025 Wins Pool Draft
1 sept. 202551 min<p>The annual Wins Pool Draft is here. Three drafters, seven teams apiece, glory and ignominy at stake. What more could you ask for? In both of the last two seasons, Robert Mays has had to pay off an embarrassing bet on Radio Row. Will he make it three years in a row, or will Derrik Klassen or Dave Helman save him and fall into the TAFS Wins Pool basement? Listen along as they guys select seven teams—five good and two bad, with bad being defined as a win total over/under of 6.5 or fewer—on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">YouTube</a></p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
2025 AFC North preview
29 août 20251h 52m<p>We've done it. We've reached the end of the line. Our eighth and final division preview features what has long been one of the most competitive divisions in the league, the AFC North. The Ravens are back as one of the inner-circle Super Bowl favorites, while the Bengals are back as one of the very best offenses in the league. The Steelers, meanwhile, underwent a facelift this offseason that included bringing in Aaron Rodgers, and the Browns are finally trying to turn the page to a new chapter in their story. Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman dive deep into all four AFC North teams on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>6:58 Baltimore Ravens 2025 season preview</p><p>36:34 Pittsburgh Steelers 2025 season preview</p><p>1:07:01 Cincinnati Bengals 2025 season preview</p><p>1:32:16 Cleveland Browns 2025 season preview</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">YouTube</a></p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
2025 NFC West preview
28 août 20251h 55m<p>Every team in the NFC West has a win total over/under of 8.5 or better. The Rams are the favorite, but their quarterback has been hurt all summer. The 49ers have institutional power, but they went 6-11 last year and have undergone serious change. There's justifiable optimism for the Seahawks and Cardinals, with easy-to-see downsides, as well. In short, if there's one division that could finish in literally any order, one through four, it's this one. Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman dive deep into all four NFC West teams on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>6:07 Los Angeles Rams season preview</p><p>41:08 Seattle Seahawks season preview</p><p>1:09:32 Arizona Cardinals season preview</p><p>1:38:58 San Francisco 49ers season preview</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">YouTube</a></p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
2025 AFC West preview
27 août 20251h 55m<p>The AFC West has long been the domain of Patrick Mahomes, Andy Reid and the Chiefs, winners of nine straight division titles. The Chargers and Broncos both made the playoffs last year, and the Raiders had an exciting offseason, but there's no question who reigns supreme over this division. Can the Chiefs make it a full decade of division championships? Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman dive deep into all four AFC West teams on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>5:23 Kansas City Chiefs 2025 season preview</p><p>35:27 Los Angeles Chargers 2025 season preview</p><p>1:04:52 Denver Broncos 2025 season preview</p><p>1:38:53 Las Vegas Raiders 2025 season preview</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">YouTube</a></p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
2025 NFC North preview
26 août 20252h 8m<p>The NFC North put three teams in the playoffs last year, including the top seed in the conference and two teams with 14 wins. There's a chance the division is even better from top to bottom this year, even if it doesn't win quite as many games. Robert Mays, Dave Helman and Derrik Klassen dive deep into all four teams in the NFC North on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>3:49 Detroit Lions 2025 season preview</p><p>37:09 Minnesota Vikings 2025 season preview</p><p>1:12:26 Green Bay Packers 2025 season preview</p><p>1:43:03 Chicago Bears 2025 season preview</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">YouTube</a></p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
2025 AFC South preview
25 août 20251h 52m<p>The AFC South is something of a punchline in the NFL, with its division champion seemingly locked into that Saturday afternoon Wild Card round game timeslot. You're there for a reason, you know? But is this the year the AFC South gets the last laugh? Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen dive deep into all four teams on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>4:00 Houston Texans preview</p><p>34:46 Indianapolis Colts preview</p><p>1:01:53 Jacksonville Jaguars preview</p><p>1:33:34 Tennessee Titans preview</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">YouTube</a></p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
TAFS Goes Camping: Conversations with The Athletic's Vikings, (former) Rams, Patriots and Broncos beat writers
23 août 20251h 52m<p>We've made it. Training camp is over. The season is just about here. And we've got one final Beat Writer Notebook for you to close it all down. On this episode, Robert Mays talks with Alec Lewis, Chad Graff and Nick Kosmider, The Athletic's Vikings, Patriots and Broncos beat writers, respectively, as well as national NFL reporter Jourdan Rodrigue, who remains very plugged in with the Rams.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>3:47 Robert Mays and Chad Graff from Vikings camp</p><p>37:56 Robert Mays and Jourdan Rodrigue from Rams camp</p><p>1:09:36 Robert Mays and Chad Graff from Patriots camp</p><p>1:32:31 Robert Mays and Nick Kosmider from Broncos camp</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>With: Alec Lewis, Jourdan Rodrigue, Chad Graff, Nick Kosmider</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">YouTube</a></p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Alec on Bluesky: @aleclewis.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Jourdan on Bluesky: @jourdanrodrigue.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Chad on Bluesky: @chadgraff.bksy.social</p><p>Follow Nick on Bluesky: @nickkosmider.bksy.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Alec on X: @alec_lewis</p><p>Follow Jourdan on X: @JourdanRodrigue</p><p>Follow Chad on X: @ChadGraff</p><p>Follow Nick on X: @NickKosmider</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
2025 NFC South preview
22 août 20251h 56m<p>It's not hard to see why the NFC South is so often overlooked. The division hasn't put two teams into the playoffs since the 2020 season. It wouldn't be crazy for that streak to end this year, even in what feels like a loaded NFC. How do the Buccaneers continue their dominance over the division? How do the Falcons flip the script and get to the top? How optimistic should we be about the Panthers? How do we even measure success for the Saints? Robert, Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman dive deep into all four teams in the NFC South on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>4:21 Tampa Bay Buccaneers preview</p><p>35:33 Atlanta Falcons preview</p><p>1:04:43 Carolina Panters preview</p><p>1:37:33 New Orleans Saints preview</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">YouTube</a></p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
2025 AFC East preview
21 août 20251h 53m<p>The Bills have won the AFC East five years in a row, and it looks like nothing can stop them from making that six this season. Still, as Robert Mays says at the top of our AFC East preview, there's something for everyone in this division. Can the Bills finally break through this season? Is this the end of the line for this era of the Dolphins? Are the Jets and Patriots really righting their respective ships? Robert, Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman dive deep into all four teams in the AFC East on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>3:17 Bills preview</p><p>32:52 Dolphins preview</p><p>1:01:38 Jets preview</p><p>1:30:23 Patriots preview</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">YouTube</a></p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
2025 NFC East preview
20 août 20252h 20m<p>Division preview season is back, our friends, and we have to start with the division that houses the reigning Super Bowl Champions. Can the Eagles reload and avoid a Super Bowl Hangover? How do the Commanders build on a breakout 2024 season? How might the Cowboys rebound this season? Is the Giants defensive front enough to make them fun all season? The guys answer all those questions, and a whole lot more, on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>3:39 Eagles preview</p><p>43:47 Commanders preview</p><p>1:21:53 Cowboys preview</p><p>1:52:37 Giants preview</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">YouTube</a></p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
The trends that NFL coaches see emerging around the league
19 août 202558 min<p>After visiting 23 teams in person over the last month, Robert Mays is finally back home. While he was out on the road, he asked the 50 or so NFL coaches he spoke to about the trends they see starting to take root across the league. That's great information for Robert to have, and it's also fun information to share with our audience. From three-high-safety looks on defense to more under center straight dropbacks on offense, Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen dig into the trends coaches in the league are watching on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>7:41 Vikings-style pressure looks</p><p>15:17 Three high safeties</p><p>20:56 Even more motion on offense</p><p>31:12 The designed QB run game</p><p>36:34 The return of under center straight dropbacks</p><p>44:13 Packers-style backfield actions in the run game</p><p>52:49 The "escort screen"</p><p>56:15 How 4th down aggressiveness affects 3rd down play calling</p><br><p><br></p><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">YouTube</a></p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
The 2025-26 debut of Building the Beast with Dane Brugler
18 août 20251h 28m<p>Dane Brugler is back on The Athletic Football Show year-round. Every week through the draft, Dane and Dave Helman will bring you Building the Beast, giving you a week-by-week look at how The Beast comes together. In this debut episode, Dane explains the process of building his initial top 50, and then he and Dave go through the top draft prospects and five key positions. They wrap things up with prospects to watch in Week 0 and Week 1 of the college football season.</p><br><p>Hosts: Dave Helman and Dane Brugler</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">YouTube</a></p><br><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><p>Follow Dane on X: @dpbrugler</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
TAFS Goes Camping: Conversations with The Athletic's Bears, Raiders and 49ers beat writers
17 août 20251h 22m<p>Robert Mays is just about off the road, but we've still got a double Beat Writer Notebook weekend for the masses. This episode features Kevin Fishbain, Tashan Reed and Matt Barrows, The Athletic's Bears, Raiders and 49ers beat writers, respectively. Can Ben Johnson be exactly what Caleb Williams needs? Is Pete Carroll the man to get the Raiders on track? Are the 49ers as ready for a rebound season as they appear to be? Learn the answers to those questions, and a whole lot more, on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>2:44 Robert Mays and Kevin Fishbain from Bears camp</p><p>32:56 Robert Mays and Tashan Reed from Raiders camp</p><p>1:02:57 Robert Mays and Matt Barrows from 49ers camp</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>With: Kevin Fishbain, Tashan Reed, Matt Barrows</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">YouTube</a></p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Kevin on Bluesky: @kfishbain.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Tashan on Bluesky: @tashanreed.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Matt on Bluesky: @mattbarrows.bksy.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Kevin on X: @kfishbain</p><p>Follow Tashan on X: @tashanreed</p><p>Follow Matt on X: @mattbarrows</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
TAFS Goes Camping: Conversations with The Athletic's Bengals, Colts and Packers beat writers
16 août 20251h 30m<p>Training camp is winding down, and so, too, is Robert Mays' Beat Writer Notebook. We've got two more for you this weekend, though, beginning with Paul Dehner Jr., James Boyd and Matt Schneidman, The Athletic's Bengals, Colts and Packers beat writers, respectively. Can the Bengals defense simply be good enough? What should we make of the Colts quarterback situation? Is this the season this version of the Packers takes off? Learn the answers to those questions, and a whole lot more, on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>3:00 Robert Mays and Paul Dehner Jr. from Bengals camp</p><p>32:13 Robert Mays and James Boyd from Colts camp</p><p>1:01:57 Robert Mays and Matt Schneidman from Packers camp</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>With: Paul Dehner Jr., James Boyd, Matt Schneidman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">YouTube</a></p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Paul on Bluesky: @pauldehnerjr.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Matt on Bluesky: @mattschneidman.bksy.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Paul on X: @pauldehnerjr</p><p>Follow James on X: @RomeovilleKid</p><p>Follow Matt on X: @mattschneidman</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
First impressions of the 2025 rookie class
15 août 20251h 17m<p>First impressions are pretty important in all facets of life. So what sort of first impressions did some of the youngsters across the league make in Week 1 of the preseason? Robert Mays, Dave Helman and Derrik Klassen dig into the QBs, the key offensive linemen, Travis Hunter, the rookies on the 49ers defense and more on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">YouTube</a></p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
A Seat at the Table: The teams that can win the Super Bowl
13 août 20251h 29m<p>It's time for an annual bit on The Athletic Football Show. And what better way to stage a bit on an NFL podcast than against the backdrop of the Super Bowl. As much upheaval as there is in the NFL every year, we all know that there's an inner circle of Super Bowl contenders to start the season. They are the teams with A Seat at the Table. The composition of the table will change as the season goes on, and we'll be there for every twist and turn. But for now, as the beginning of the season draws near, these are the 10 teams with A Seat at the Table.</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">YouTube</a></p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
Eight potential out-of-nowhere units on offense and defense
12 août 20251h 14m<p>Last year at this time, no one was expecting much from the Commanders offense or the Broncos defense. By the end of the season, they were among the units that defined 2024. Which units can pull off the same feat and come from out of nowhere to carry their teams this season. Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen point to eight candidates—four offenses and four defenses—on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>4:52 Cowboys offense</p><p>13:33 Titans offense</p><p>24:43 Raiders offense</p><p>34:31 Panthers offense</p><p>46:35 49ers defense</p><p>52:52 Cardinals defense</p><p>1:04:50 Colts defense</p><p>1:11:20 Patriots defense</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">YouTube</a></p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
Which division is most likely to put three teams in the playoffs?
11 août 20251h 3m<p>The NFL expanded to 14 total playoff teams, seven per conference, in 2020. In each of the five seasons since expansion, at least one division sent three teams to the playoffs. It was two last season, with the AFC West and NFC North pulling off the trick. So we can say with relative certainty that at least one division will have three playoff teams this season. Which division is going to keep the streak alive? Dave Helman and Derrik Klassen rank them from least to most likely on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">YouTube</a></p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
TAFS Goes Camping: Conversations with The Athletic's Panthers, Browns and Commanders beat writers
10 août 20251h 10m<p>Look, you visit with eight teams in one week, you gotta have two Beat Writer Notebooks. In this edition, Robert talks with Joe Person, Zac Jackson and Nicki Jhabvala, The Athletic's Panthers, Browns and Commanders beat writers, respectively. How legitimate is the optimism for the Panthers offense? How do the Browns even measure success this season? What can the Commanders do to follow up on last season's unexpected breakthrough? Learn the answers to those questions, and a whole lot more, on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><br><p>4:01 Robert and Joe Person from Panthers camp</p><p>27:21 Robert and Zac Jackson from Browns camp</p><p>48:08 Robert and Nicki Jhabvala from Commanders camp</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>With: Joe Person, Zac Jackson, Nicki Jhabvala</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">YouTube</a></p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Joe on Bluesky: @josephperson.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Nicki on Bluesky: @nickijhabvala.bksy.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Joe on X: @josephperson</p><p>Follow Zac on X: @AkronJackson</p><p>Follow Nicki on X: @NickiJhabvala</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
TAFS Goes Camping: Conversations with The Athletic's Bills and Steelers beat writers
9 août 20251h 6m<p>Robert Mays is coming off his busiest week of training camp yet, having spent the previous seven days with eight different teams (gotta love joint practices). In this edition of the Beat Writer Notebook, Robert talks with Joe Buscaglia, The Athletic's Bills beat writer, and Mike DeFabo, The Athletic's Steelers beat writer. How do the Bills finally get over the hump? Can Aaron Rodgers find enough of the fountain of youth to push the Steelers to another level? Learn the answers to those questions, and a whole lot more, on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Plus, Robert and Derrik Klassen cover the injuries to Rashawn Slater and C.J. Gardner-Johnson.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><br><p>3:10 Rashawn Slater and C.J. Gardner-Johnson injuries</p><p>17:25 Robert and Joe Buscaglia at Bills camp</p><p>45:36 Robert and Mike DeFabo at Steelers camp</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>With: Joe Buscaglia, Mike DeFabo</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">YouTube</a></p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Joe on Bluesky: @joebuscaglia.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Mike on Bluesky: @mikedefabo.bksy.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Joe on X: @JoeBuscaglia</p><p>Follow Mike on X: @MikeDeFabo</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
The early training camp storylines that actually matter
7 août 20251h 2m<p>Teams have been at training camp for a couple weeks now, so you know what that means. We've got plenty of storylines floating around out there. Some of them matter. Many of them don't. Dave Helman and Derrik Klassen wade through them and separate what actually has meaning from what doesn't on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>6:09 Matthew Stafford's back injury</p><p>13:27 Ben Johnson's aggressive approach to training camp</p><p>24:07 The Saints QB battle</p><p>32:20 Depth chart silliness</p><p>52:57 Rookie WRs turning heads</p><p>1:01:45 Aireontae Ersery pushing for a starting job in Houston</p><br><p>Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show...</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">YouTube</a></p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
Quarterbacks at a crossroads in 2025
6 août 20251h 7m<p>There is a subset of quarterbacks for whom the 2025 season is an inflection point. For some of them, it's about their future in the league. For others, it's due to the massive changes around them. For still others, it's about their legacy. Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen discuss eight quarterbacks at a crossroads this season on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>5:11 Kyler Murray</p><p>21:22 Jared Goff</p><p>34:26 Trevor Lawrence</p><p>46:47 C.J. Stroud and Jordan Love</p><p>55:56 Brock Purdy</p><p>1:03:05 Patrick Mahomes</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Producer: Michael Beller</p><br><p>Subscribe to The Athletic Football Show</p><p><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-athletic-football-show-a-show-about-the-nfl/id1528622068" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a></p><p><a href="https://spoti.fi/3waggUU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Spotify</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6gWjMSDj7-8j3iCc2ZGo3g" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">YouTube</a></p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Dave on Bluesky: @davehelman.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</p><p>Follow Dave on X: @davehelman_</p><br><p>Theme song: Haunted</p><p>Written by Dylan Slocum, Trevor Dietrich, Ruben Duarte, Kyle McAulay, and Meredith VanWoert / Performed by Spanish Love Songs</p><p>Courtesy of Pure Noise / By arrangement with Bank Robber Music, LLC</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>
