The Athletic Football Show: A show about the NFL

Week 14 Hangover: Hunting for relevant 2026 needles in the 2025 haystack for four also-rans

<p>The Vikings, Commanders, Titans and Browns have dealt with varying degrees of disappointment this season, but they remain worthy of our attention as we get ready to close the book on them for 2025. Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen dive into the Vikings' 31-0 win over the Commanders, and the Titans' surprisingly fun 31-29 win over the Browns, on this episode of The Athletic Football Show. Then, the guys get into a particularly illustrative edition of Monday Mourning with calls from Colts and Falcons fans.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>3:27 Commanders-Vikings recap</p><p>30:08 Titans-Browns recap</p><p>59:25 Monday Mourning with the Colts and Falcons</p><br><p>Connect with The Athletic Football Show</p><p>YT:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow</a></p><p>Podcasts: <a href="https://podfollow.com/the-athletic-football-show/view" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://podfollow.com/the-athletic-football-show/view</a></p><p>X:&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TA_FootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://x.com/TA_FootballShow</a></p><p>IG:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow</a></p><p>TikTok:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow</a></p><p>Discord: <a href="http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow</a></p><p>Call us: 847-448-0701</p><p>Email us: <a href="https://open.acast.com/networks/67f9268d2308a71dab8db95a/shows/681cc905bdc60241406b737f/episodes/athleticfootballshow@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">athleticfootballshow@gmail.com</a></p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Video Producer: Katy Duffy</p><p>Audio Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Social Producer: Scott Krinch</p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</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 14 Recap: Bears-Packers delivers, Jaguars and Steelers make big moves, and holy cow, Josh Allen

<p>If you caught the Week 14 preview episode of The Athletic Football Show, you know we were excited about this Sunday. Bears-Packers, Colts-Jaguars, Texans-Chiefs, Steelers-Ravens and Bengals-Bills. Welp, the day lived up to the expectations, and the some. Robert Mays, Dave Helman and Derrik Klassen dive deep into an awesome day of football—and consider its implications—on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>0:00 Welcome to the show</p><p>0:45 Texans-Chiefs</p><p>11:15 Andy Reid</p><p>20:30 Jags-Colts</p><p>20:45 Trevor Lawrence</p><p>27:00 Colts lose Daniel Jones</p><p>34:50 Packers-Bears</p><p>35:30 Caleb Williams &amp; Bears offense</p><p>45:45 Jordan Love &amp; Packers offense</p><p>52:30 Bills-Bengals</p><p>1:05:30 Steelers-Ravens</p><p>1:12:50 John Harbaugh’s future</p><p>1:17:00 Buccaneers-Saints</p><p>1:27:15 Romantic: Josh Allen</p><p>1:28:45 Romantic: Puka Nacua</p><p>1:30:00 Minnesota Vikings/JJ McCarthy</p><p>1:34:30 What did we learn today?</p><br><p>Connect with The Athletic Football Show</p><p>YT:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow</a></p><p>Podcasts: <a href="https://podfollow.com/the-athletic-football-show/view" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://podfollow.com/the-athletic-football-show/view</a></p><p>X:&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TA_FootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://x.com/TA_FootballShow</a></p><p>IG:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow</a></p><p>TikTok:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow</a></p><p>Discord: <a href="http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow</a></p><p>Call us: 847-448-0701</p><p>Email us: <a href="https://open.acast.com/networks/67f9268d2308a71dab8db95a/shows/681cc905bdc60241406b737f/episodes/athleticfootballshow@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">athleticfootballshow@gmail.com</a></p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Video Producer: Katy Duffy</p><p>Audio Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Social Producer: Scott Krinch</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 14 Preview: Bears-Packers finally means something again

<p>It’s a ton of fun anytime you get a game with first place on the line this late in the season. This week, we have three such games. And one of them is Bears-Packers. So yeah, Week 14 just might be the best week of the season. Robert Mays, Dave Helman and Derrik Klassen preview everything we’ve got to come this week on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Connect with The Athletic Football Show</p><p>YT:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow</a></p><p>Podcasts: <a href="https://podfollow.com/the-athletic-football-show/view" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://podfollow.com/the-athletic-football-show/view</a></p><p>X:&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TA_FootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://x.com/TA_FootballShow</a></p><p>IG:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow</a></p><p>TikTok:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow</a></p><p>Discord: <a href="http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow</a></p><p>Call us: 847-448-0701</p><p>Email us: <a href="https://open.acast.com/networks/67f9268d2308a71dab8db95a/shows/681cc905bdc60241406b737f/episodes/athleticfootballshow@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">athleticfootballshow@gmail.com</a></p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Video Producer: Katy Duffy</p><p>Audio Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Social Producer: Scott Krinch</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 happened to the NFL's elite?

<p>Chiefs, Ravens, Eagles and Lions; Chiefs, Ravens, Eagles and Lions. Look back over the last half-decade of the NFL, and you'll see those four teams at the top of the league, year in and year out. They're all such constants, in fact, that it seems we just chisel their names in stone into the playoff picture in August. But this year, the Eagles are sputtering their way into December, and the Chiefs, Ravens and Lions all could easily miss the playoffs. So, what happened to these assumed powerhouses? On this episode of The Athletic Football Show, Diante Lee from The Ringer hops on with Robert Mays to cover the issues for the Ravens, Eagles and Lions, and then former Chiefs offensive lineman Mitch Schwartz joins Robert to break down the problems for his old team, and whether they can come back from them this season.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>8:26 Detroit Lions</p><p>24:33 Philadelphia Eagles</p><p>36:34 Baltimore Ravens</p><p>48:06 Any overarching lessons?</p><p>59:40 Kansas City Chiefs</p><br><p>Connect with The Athletic Football Show</p><p>YT:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow</a></p><p>Podcasts: <a href="https://podfollow.com/the-athletic-football-show/view" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://podfollow.com/the-athletic-football-show/view</a></p><p>X:&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TA_FootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://x.com/TA_FootballShow</a></p><p>IG:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow</a></p><p>TikTok:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow</a></p><p>Discord: <a href="http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow</a></p><p>Call us: 847-448-0701</p><p>Email us: <a href="https://open.acast.com/networks/67f9268d2308a71dab8db95a/shows/681cc905bdc60241406b737f/episodes/athleticfootballshow@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">athleticfootballshow@gmail.com</a></p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>With: Diante Lee and Mitch Schwartz</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Video Producer: Katy Duffy</p><p>Audio Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Social Producer: Scott Krinch</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: Dane Brugler's end-of-season mock draft

<p>It's December. The college football regular season is over. It's Mock Draft Season. Dane Brugler's end-of-season mock draft is now live at The Athletic, and he and Dave Helman dig into it on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Connect with The Athletic Football Show</p><p>YT:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow</a></p><p>Podcasts: <a href="https://podfollow.com/the-athletic-football-show/view" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://podfollow.com/the-athletic-football-show/view</a></p><p>X:&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TA_FootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://x.com/TA_FootballShow</a></p><p>IG:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow</a></p><p>TikTok:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow</a></p><p>Discord: <a href="http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow</a></p><p>Call us: 847-448-0701</p><p>Email us: <a href="https://open.acast.com/networks/67f9268d2308a71dab8db95a/shows/681cc905bdc60241406b737f/episodes/athleticfootballshow@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">athleticfootballshow@gmail.com</a></p><br><p>Host: Dave Helman</p><p>Co-Host: Dane Brugler</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Video Producer: Katy Duffy</p><p>Audio Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Social Producer: Scott Krinch</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>

Week 13 Hangover: Division-leading Broncos and Buccaneers get wins, and we get in the muck with Saints-Dolphins

<p>It doesn't always have to be pretty, especially when you're stacking wins. The Broncos and Buccaneers can tell themselves that after picking up victories over the Commanders and Cardinals, respectively, in Week 13. Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen dig into both of those games on this episode of The Athletic Football Show. Then, they do some necessary due diligence and check in on the Saints and Dolphins. Finally, the guys wrap up the episode with sad voicemails from Lions and Colts fans.</p><br><p>Connect with The Athletic Football Show</p><p>YT:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow</a></p><p>Podcasts: <a href="https://podfollow.com/the-athletic-football-show/view" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://podfollow.com/the-athletic-football-show/view</a></p><p>X:&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TA_FootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://x.com/TA_FootballShow</a></p><p>IG:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow</a></p><p>TikTok:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow</a></p><p>Discord: <a href="http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow</a></p><p>Call us: 847-448-0701</p><p>Email us: <a href="https://open.acast.com/networks/67f9268d2308a71dab8db95a/shows/681cc905bdc60241406b737f/episodes/athleticfootballshow@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">athleticfootballshow@gmail.com</a></p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Video Producer: Katy Duffy</p><p>Audio Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Social Producer: Scott Krinch</p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</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 13 Recap: Division races heat up as the season heads into December

<p>December has arrived, and there isn't much more separation among teams at the top of their divisions as there was back when everyone was 0-0. Three divisions—the NFC West, AFC South and AFC North—are tied. Two more—the NFC North and NFC South—have a half-game separating the top-two teams. The Cowboys now trail the Eagles by just 1.5 games in the NFC East. We're going to enjoy one helluva run to the playoffs over the next month. Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman recap all the games that contributed to those tight standings, and a whole lot more, on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Connect with The Athletic Football Show</p><p>YT:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow</a></p><p>Podcasts: <a href="https://podfollow.com/the-athletic-football-show/view" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://podfollow.com/the-athletic-football-show/view</a></p><p>X:&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TA_FootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://x.com/TA_FootballShow</a></p><p>IG:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow</a></p><p>TikTok:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow</a></p><p>Discord: <a href="http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow</a></p><p>Call us: 847-448-0701</p><p>Email us: <a href="https://open.acast.com/networks/67f9268d2308a71dab8db95a/shows/681cc905bdc60241406b737f/episodes/athleticfootballshow@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">athleticfootballshow@gmail.com</a></p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Video Producer: Katy Duffy</p><p>Audio Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Social Producer: Scott Krinch</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 13 Sunday Preview: Texans-Colts, Bills-Steelers and a series of Don't-Step-on-the-Rake Games

<p>With Thanksgiving Day now behind us, it's time to get to the rest of the Week 13 slate. Believe it or not, the AFC South is still very much up for grabs, and the Texans have an opportunity for a huge win when they visit the Colts on Sunday. The Bills and Steelers, meanwhile, are both coming off a loss and meet in a game that feels like neither can afford to lose. The 49ers, Jaguars, Buccaneers and Chargers are all comfortable favorites on Sunday, but there are rakes in each of their respective yards they need to make sure they avoid. Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman preview all those matchups on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Connect with The Athletic Football Show</p><p>X:&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TA_FootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://x.com/TA_FootballShow</a></p><p>IG:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow</a></p><p>YT:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow</a></p><p>TikTok:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow</a></p><p>Discord: <a href="http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow</a></p><p>Call us: 847-448-0701</p><p>Email us: <a href="https://open.acast.com/networks/67f9268d2308a71dab8db95a/shows/681cc905bdc60241406b737f/episodes/athleticfootballshow@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">athleticfootballshow@gmail.com</a></p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Video Producer: Katy Duffy</p><p>Audio Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Social Producer: Scott Krinch</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>

Thanksgiving and Black Friday Preview: A Football Feast!

<p>If you've been a football fan for any meaningful amount of time, you know that great games on the Thanksgiving Day slate isn't a guarantee. That's what makes a Thanksgiving like this one so delightfully juicy. Packers-Lions! Chiefs-Cowboys! Bengals-Ravens, with Joe Burrow back! And then, to top it all off, Bears-Eagles on Black Friday. That's just about as good a set of games as you could hope for to kick off Thanksgiving weekend. Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman preview those games on this episode of The Athletic Football Show</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>1:36 Packers-Lions</p><p>14:26 Chiefs-Cowboys</p><p>27:18 bengals-ravens</p><p>39:36 Bears-Eagles</p><br><p>Connect with The Athletic Football Show</p><p>X:&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TA_FootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://x.com/TA_FootballShow</a></p><p>IG:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow</a></p><p>YT:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow</a></p><p>TikTok:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow</a></p><p>Discord: <a href="http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow</a></p><p>Call us: 847-448-0701</p><p>Email us: <a href="https://open.acast.com/networks/67f9268d2308a71dab8db95a/shows/681cc905bdc60241406b737f/episodes/athleticfootballshow@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">athleticfootballshow@gmail.com</a></p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Video Producer: Katy Duffy</p><p>Audio Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Social Producer: Scott Krinch</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: NFL Draft prospects to watch in Rivalry Week

<p>Rivalry Week always has, and always will, mean so many things in the college football world. One of the newer elements of Rivalry Week, though, is that it's often the last time any NFL Draft prospects whose teams don't make the College Football Playoff will put something new on tape for pro teams to consider. It's on those players that Dane Brugler and Dave Helman focus their attention on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Connect with The Athletic Football Show</p><p>X:&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TA_FootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://x.com/TA_FootballShow</a></p><p>IG:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow</a></p><p>YT:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow</a></p><p>TikTok:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow</a></p><p>Discord: <a href="http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow</a></p><p>Call us: 847-448-0701</p><p>Email us: <a href="https://open.acast.com/networks/67f9268d2308a71dab8db95a/shows/681cc905bdc60241406b737f/episodes/athleticfootballshow@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">athleticfootballshow@gmail.com</a></p><br><p>Host: Dave Helman</p><p>Co-Host: Dane Brugler</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Video Producer: Katy Duffy</p><p>Audio Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Social Producer: Scott Krinch</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>

Week 12 Hangover: The Seahawks and Patriots escape with road wins, Cam Ward is good, and JSN is a one-of-one player

<p>Every contender needs to win a game or two on the road when they aren't necessarily at their best. That goes doubly so for surprise contenders like, say, the Seahawks and Patriots. That's exactly what they both did in wins over the Titans and Bengals, respectively. Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen dive into those games on this episode of The Athletic Football Show. Included: plenty of love for Cam Ward and Jaxon Smith-Njigba. After that, the guys do what they can to console sad Vikings and Buccaneers fans.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate_</p><p>3:33 Seahawks with enough to get past Titans</p><p>31:11 Patriots get out of Cincinnati with a win</p><p>51:38 Monday Mourning with the Buccaneers and Vikings</p><br><p>Connect with The Athletic Football Show</p><p>X:&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TA_FootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://x.com/TA_FootballShow</a></p><p>IG:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow</a></p><p>YT:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow</a></p><p>TikTok:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow</a></p><p>Discord: <a href="http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow</a></p><p>Call us: 847-448-0701</p><p>Email us: <a href="https://open.acast.com/networks/67f9268d2308a71dab8db95a/shows/681cc905bdc60241406b737f/episodes/athleticfootballshow@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">athleticfootballshow@gmail.com</a></p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Video Producer: Katy Duffy</p><p>Audio Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Social Producer: Scott Krinch</p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</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 12 Recap: Cowboys stun Eagles, Rams crush Bucs, Chiefs get much-needed win, Ravens take over first in AFC North, and more

<p>We're through two-thirds of the NFL regular season. Thanksgiving Week is here. The beginning of the home stretch has arrived. And yet, do we even have a definitive Super Bowl favorite? Perhaps it's the Los Angeles Rams, who crushed the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 12. But this thing is wide open and that was on full display leading up to that SNF game. The Dallas Cowboys rallied from a 21-0 hold to beat the Philadelphia Eagles, 24-21. The Kansas City Chiefs came back from 20-9 to get a huge 23-20 win over the Indianapolis Colts. The Baltimore Ravens moved into first place in the AFC North...but they weren't terribly impressive in the process. Meanwhile, the Chicago Bears, Green Bay Packers and Detroit Lions all kept pace with one another in the NFC North, the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots took care of business, and the Jacksonville Jaguars won a silly one over the Arizona Cardinals. Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman break it all down on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>4:00 Bucs-Rams</p><p>13:41 Colts-Chiefs</p><p>33:28 Eagles-Cowboys</p><p>49:00 Steelers-Bears</p><p>1:03:27 Ravens WTF</p><p>1:11:30 Jags-Cardinals WTF</p><p>1:21:54 Vikings WTF</p><p>1:28:10 Derrik/Gibbs Romantic</p><p>1:31:02 Robert Romantic...Game will humble you</p><p>1:34:00ish Dave Romantic...George Pickens</p><p>1:35:51 What did we learn today?</p><br><p><br></p><p>Connect with The Athletic Football Show</p><p>X:&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TA_FootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://x.com/TA_FootballShow</a></p><p>IG:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow</a></p><p>YT:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow</a></p><p>TikTok:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow</a></p><p>Discord: <a href="http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow</a></p><p>Call us: 847-448-0701</p><p>Email us: <a href="https://open.acast.com/networks/67f9268d2308a71dab8db95a/shows/681cc905bdc60241406b737f/episodes/athleticfootballshow@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">athleticfootballshow@gmail.com</a></p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Video Producer: Katy Duffy</p><p>Audio Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Social Producer: Scott Krinch</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 12 Preview: Colts-Chiefs is the Game of the Week, but not in the way we expected

<p>If we told you back in August that Colts-Chiefs would be the Game of the Week in Week 12, you probably would've nodded along. "Sure," you'd say to yourself, "I can see that. The Chiefs are doing their thing as a Super Bowl favorite, and the Colts are a surprise upstart on the fringes of the playoff picture. That adds up." Instead, it's the Colts who are leading their division, and the Chiefs who are desperate for a win to stay within shouting distance of the playoffs. That's where Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman begin the Week 12 Preview episode of The Athletic Football Show. The guys also discuss Buccaneers-Rams, Steelers-Bears, Eagles-Cowboys and Panthers-49ers; talk a stroll down Sicko Street with Cam Ward against the Seahawks defense and Shedeur Sanders getting his first ever start against the lowly Raiders; and wonder if it's time for a moratorium on Vikings talk until J.J. McCarthy shows us...anything.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>2:17 Game of the Week: Colts-Chiefs</p><p>22:35 Game of the Week: Buccaneers-Rams</p><p>40:24 One Thing From...Steelers-Bears</p><p>47:39 One Thing From...Panthers-49ers</p><p>52:06 One Thing From...Eagles-Cowboys </p><p>1:02:43 Sicko Street: Cam Ward vs. the Seahawks defense</p><p>1:05:07 Sicko Street: Myriad entry points for Browns-Raiders</p><p>1:08:21 Take Tribunal: It's time for a moratorium on Vikings offense talk</p><p>1:14:27 What do you wanna know after Week 12?</p><br><p>Connect with The Athletic Football Show</p><p>Take our listener survey: <a href="https://forms.gle/9CwBVwManjR9froy9" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/9CwBVwManjR9froy9</a></p><p>X:&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TA_FootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://x.com/TA_FootballShow</a></p><p>IG:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow</a></p><p>YT:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow</a></p><p>TikTok:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow</a></p><p>Discord: <a href="http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow</a></p><p>Call us: 847-448-0701</p><p>Email us: <a href="https://open.acast.com/networks/67f9268d2308a71dab8db95a/shows/681cc905bdc60241406b737f/episodes/athleticfootballshow@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">athleticfootballshow@gmail.com</a></p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Video Producer: Katy Duffy</p><p>Audio Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Social Producer: Scott Krinch</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 Table: Cutting 10 Super Bowl contenders down to eight

<p>Ten teams started the season with a seat at The Lombardi Table, a place where only the teams we deem legitimate Super Bowl contenders can sit. Ten teams remain, although the composition has changed. Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman take away two seats and cut the membership down to eight on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Connect with The Athletic Football Show</p><p>Take our listener survey: <a href="https://forms.gle/9CwBVwManjR9froy9" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/9CwBVwManjR9froy9</a></p><p>X:&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TA_FootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://x.com/TA_FootballShow</a></p><p>IG:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow</a></p><p>YT:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow</a></p><p>TikTok:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow</a></p><p>Discord: <a href="http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow</a></p><p>Call us: 847-448-0701</p><p>Email us: <a href="https://open.acast.com/networks/67f9268d2308a71dab8db95a/shows/681cc905bdc60241406b737f/episodes/athleticfootballshow@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">athleticfootballshow@gmail.com</a></p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Video Producer: Katy Duffy</p><p>Audio Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Social Producer: Scott Krinch</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: Team + position matchmaking inside the projected top 10

<p>There are still seven weeks remaining in the NFL regular season, but the likely composition of the top 10 in the draft order is starting to take shape. So, if you're a fan of the Titans or the Browns or the Jets, who inside the college football world should be getting you excited for 2026? Dane Brugler and Dave Helman do some team + position/player matchmaking for the worst teams in the NFL and the top prospects in the draft pool on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Connect with The Athletic Football Show</p><p>Take our listener survey: <a href="https://forms.gle/9CwBVwManjR9froy9" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/9CwBVwManjR9froy9</a></p><p>X:&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TA_FootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://x.com/TA_FootballShow</a></p><p>IG:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow</a></p><p>YT:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow</a></p><p>TikTok:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow</a></p><p>Discord: <a href="http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow</a></p><p>Call us: 847-448-0701</p><p>Email us: <a href="https://open.acast.com/networks/67f9268d2308a71dab8db95a/shows/681cc905bdc60241406b737f/episodes/athleticfootballshow@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">athleticfootballshow@gmail.com</a></p><br><p>Host: Dave Helman</p><p>Co-Host: Dane Brugler</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Video Producer: Katy Duffy</p><p>Audio Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Social Producer: Scott Krinch</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>

Week 11 Hangover: The Bears move into first, the Steelers stay on top, and the Falcons lose another season

<p>The Bears and Steelers are in first place after Week 11? Sure, yup, just how we all drew it up back in August. Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen dig into the Bears' win over the Vikings and the Steelers' win over the Bengals on this episode of The Athletic Football Show. The guys also hit on the Texans, who won another game with Davis Mills at the helm, and take a couple of sad voicemails from fans of AFC West teams.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>3:20 Michael Penix likely out for season with knee injury</p><p>12:19 The Bears—yes, the Bears—move into first place after win over Vikings</p><p>38:59 The Steelers stay in first, and the Bengals are a total mess</p><p>54:41 Monday Mourning: Kansas City Chiefs are in uncharted waters</p><p>1:01:10 Monday Mourning: The Chargers and their desperate offensive line situation</p><br><p>Connect with The Athletic Football Show</p><p>Take our listener survey: <a href="https://forms.gle/9CwBVwManjR9froy9" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/9CwBVwManjR9froy9</a></p><p>X:&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TA_FootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://x.com/TA_FootballShow</a></p><p>IG:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow</a></p><p>YT:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow</a></p><p>TikTok:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow</a></p><p>Discord: <a href="http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow</a></p><p>Call us: 847-448-0701</p><p>Email us: <a href="https://open.acast.com/networks/67f9268d2308a71dab8db95a/shows/681cc905bdc60241406b737f/episodes/athleticfootballshow@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">athleticfootballshow@gmail.com</a></p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Video Producer: Katy Duffy</p><p>Audio Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Social Producer: Scott Krinch</p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</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 11 Recap: Huge wins for the Eagles, Broncos and Rams, Josh Allen goes off, Niners cruise in Purdy's return

<p>We spent all last week getting pumped about the Week 11 slate. And then it delivered the goods. The Kansas City Chiefs nine-year reign atop the AFC West is in serious jeopardy after their loss to the Denver Broncos. The Los Angeles Rams grabbed a hold of the NFC West steering wheel with their win over the Seattle Seahawks. The Philadelphia Eagles took down the Detroit Lions in a clash of NFC heavyweights. Josh Allen had a monster day. Bryce Young and Jacoby Brissett set records. Like we said, Week 11 delivered. Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman recap it all on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Connect with The Athletic Football Show</p><p>Take our listener survey: <a href="https://forms.gle/9CwBVwManjR9froy9" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/9CwBVwManjR9froy9</a></p><p>X:&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TA_FootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://x.com/TA_FootballShow</a></p><p>IG:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow</a></p><p>YT:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow</a></p><p>TikTok:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow</a></p><p>Discord: <a href="http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow</a></p><p>Call us: 847-448-0701</p><p>Email us: <a href="https://open.acast.com/networks/67f9268d2308a71dab8db95a/shows/681cc905bdc60241406b737f/episodes/athleticfootballshow@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">athleticfootballshow@gmail.com</a></p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Video Producer: Katy Duffy</p><p>Audio Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Social Producer: Scott Krinch</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 11 Preview: Seahawks-Rams headlines a loaded slate

<p>There are certain weeks where we don't need to get cute with these descriptions. The Rams and Seahawks play on Sunday in a game that could determine the No. 1 seed in the NFC. The Lions and Eagles play on Sunday in a game that also could determine the No. 1 seed in the NFC. The Broncos and Chiefs play on Sunday in a game that could determine the AFC West Champion. In other words, Week 11 is jam-packed with great games. Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman preview it on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>2:24 Seahawks-Rams preview</p><p>26:55 Chiefs-Broncos preview</p><p>42:51 One Thing From...Lions-Eagles</p><p>47:18 One Thing From...Bears-Vikings</p><p>56:48 One Thing From...Chargers-Jaguars</p><p>1:04:33 Sicko Street: The Panthers-Falcons mystery box</p><p>1:07:52 Under the Hood: What's up with the Bills dropback passing game?</p><p>1:17:44 What do you wanna know on the Packers, Bengals and Ravens</p><br><p>Connect with The Athletic Football Show</p><p>X:&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TA_FootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://x.com/TA_FootballShow</a></p><p>IG:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow</a></p><p>YT:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow</a></p><p>TikTok:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow</a></p><p>Discord: <a href="http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow</a></p><p>Call us: 847-448-0701</p><p>Email us: <a href="https://open.acast.com/networks/67f9268d2308a71dab8db95a/shows/681cc905bdc60241406b737f/episodes/athleticfootballshow@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">athleticfootballshow@gmail.com</a></p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Video Producer: Katy Duffy</p><p>Audio Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Social Producer: Scott Krinch</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 Midseason Awards

<p>Doing your midseason awards at the exact midpoint of the season might be cool, but you know what's even cooler? Doing them 55.6% of the way through the season. And that's exactly what Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman do at the midway point, plus one week. Who's the Offensive Player of the Year, Jonathan Taylor or Jaxon Smith-Njigba? Can anyone challenge Myles Garrett for the Defensive Player of the Year crown? And who's the MVP. We hand out all the awards—not only those three, but also Offensive and Defensive Rookie of the Year, Protector of the Year, Coach of the Year, Assistant Coach of the Year and Executive of the Year—on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>4:32 Offensive Player of the Year</p><p>12:55 Defensive Player of the Year</p><p>27:28 Offensive Rookie of the Year</p><p>35:53 Defensive Rookie of the Year</p><p>42:22 Protector of the Year</p><p>49:01 Coach of the Year</p><p>58:43 Assistant Coach of the Year</p><p>1:07:55 Executive of the Year</p><p>1:14:40 MVP</p><br><p>Connect with The Athletic Football Show</p><p>X:&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TA_FootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://x.com/TA_FootballShow</a></p><p>IG:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow</a></p><p>YT:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow</a></p><p>TikTok:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow</a></p><p>Discord: <a href="http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow</a></p><p>Call us: 847-448-0701</p><p>Email us: <a href="https://open.acast.com/networks/67f9268d2308a71dab8db95a/shows/681cc905bdc60241406b737f/episodes/athleticfootballshow@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">athleticfootballshow@gmail.com</a></p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Video Producer: Katy Duffy</p><p>Audio Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Social Producer: Scott Krinch</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>

Dane Brugler's updated Top 50: Arvell Reese, Ty Simpson top the list

<p>Ah yes, the familiar hallmarks of mid-November. Leaves falling off trees, Thanksgiving preparations being made, and Dane Brugler's updated Top 50. Dane and Dave Helman dig into the new Top 50 on this episode of The Athletic Football Show's Building the Beast. The guys discuss Arell Reese and Ty Simpson up top, the biggest risers and fallers, the unique challenges of the 2026 class, and a whole lot more.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>4:44 Arvell Reese and Ty Simpson at the top</p><p>15:27 The other quarterbacks in the top 50</p><p>31:22 Making sense at the top</p><p>36:12 Cornerback class</p><p>54:31 Wide receiver class</p><p>1:00:00 The biggest fallers</p><br><p>Connect with The Athletic Football Show</p><p>X:&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TA_FootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://x.com/TA_FootballShow</a></p><p>IG:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow</a></p><p>YT:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow</a></p><p>TikTok:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow</a></p><p>Discord: <a href="http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow</a></p><p>Call us: 847-448-0701</p><p>Email us: <a href="https://open.acast.com/networks/67f9268d2308a71dab8db95a/shows/681cc905bdc60241406b737f/episodes/athleticfootballshow@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">athleticfootballshow@gmail.com</a></p><br><p>Host: Dave Helman</p><p>Co-Host: Dane Brugler</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Video Producer: Katy Duffy</p><p>Audio Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Social Producer: Scott Krinch</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>

Week 10 Hangover: Giants fire Brian Daboll, Ravens and Chargers put Steelers in panic mode

<p>Brian Daboll appeared to be on thin ice dating back to the end of last season. The ice finally broke on Monday, with the Giants making a change at head coach. Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen begin the Week 10 Hangover episode of The Athletic Football Show by discussing the end of the Daboll era in New York. After that, the guys dig into the Ravens' win over the Vikings and the Chargers' victory over the Steelers, which tightened things up considerably in the AFC North.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>3:20 Brian Daboll out in New York</p><p>28:17 And here come the Ravens</p><p>54:22 Chargers handle Steelers</p><p>1:06:54 Monday Mourning with the Panthers</p><br><p>Connect with The Athletic Football Show</p><p>X:&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TA_FootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://x.com/TA_FootballShow</a></p><p>IG:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow</a></p><p>YT:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow</a></p><p>TikTok:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow</a></p><p>Discord: <a href="http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow</a></p><p>Call us: 847-448-0701</p><p>Email us: <a href="https://open.acast.com/networks/67f9268d2308a71dab8db95a/shows/681cc905bdc60241406b737f/episodes/athleticfootballshow@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">athleticfootballshow@gmail.com</a></p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Video Producer: Katy Duffy</p><p>Audio Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Social Producer: Scott Krinch</p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Derrik on Bluesky: @qbklass.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Derrik on X: @QBKlass</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 10 Recap: The Rams and Seahawks are on a collision course

<p>The late window in Week 10 may have been nothing but blowouts, but it did lay bare for us one clear and obvious truth: the Rams and Seahawks are two of the best teams in the league. That's where Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman begin the Week 10 recap episode of The Athletic Football Show. The guys also give plenty of love to the Patriots, Dan Campbell as playcaller, and Jonathan Taylor; wonder what went wrong with the Bills, Jaguars and Panthers; and highlight a few things that made them feel romantic about football on Sunday.</p><br><p>(Timestamps are approximate)</p><p>0:00 Welcome to the show</p><p>1:30 Rams &amp; Seahawks best teams in the NFL?</p><p>5:15 Seahawks dominant defense</p><p>8:20 Matthew Stafford &amp; Rams offense reaching final form</p><p>12:50 Do the Seahawks belong at the table?</p><p>17:30 Patriots-Tampa Bay Buccaneers</p><p>25:55 Not Drake Maye’s best game</p><p>31:30 Lions-Washington Commanders &amp; Dan Campbell the play caller</p><p>34:20 What was different for Jared Goff, Lions offense today?</p><p>39:30 Jonathan Taylor &amp; Colts-Atlanta Falcons</p><p>44:15 Daniel Jones turning back into a pumpkin?</p><p>49:10 Bills-Miami Dolphins</p><p>1:04:30 Jaguars-Houston Texans</p><p>1:13:05 Panthers-New Orleans Saints</p><p>1:16:00 The Bryce Young experience</p><p>1:24:00 How could you not be romantic about football?</p><p>1:26:55 Caleb Williams</p><p>1:33:30 What did we learn today?</p><br><p>Connect with The Athletic Football Show</p><p>X:&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TA_FootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://x.com/TA_FootballShow</a></p><p>IG:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow</a></p><p>YT:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow</a></p><p>TikTok:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow</a></p><p>Discord: <a href="http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow</a></p><p>Call us: 847-448-0701</p><p>Email us: <a href="https://open.acast.com/networks/67f9268d2308a71dab8db95a/shows/681cc905bdc60241406b737f/episodes/athleticfootballshow@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">athleticfootballshow@gmail.com</a></p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Video Producer: Katy Duffy</p><p>Audio Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Social Producer: Scott Krinch</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 10 Preview: The top of the NFC takes center stage

<p>The second half of the NFL season kicks off with a bang, with four games pitting current playoff teams against one another. Two of those games—Eagles at Packers and Rams at 49ers—are the Games of the Week on the Week 10 preview episode of The Athletic Football Show. After diving deep into those games, Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman discuss the other two—Patriots at Buccaneers and Steelers at Chargers. The guys also dig into Ravens-Vikings and Falcons-Colts, give you a reason to tune into Giants-Bears, and ponder Kyler Murray's future.</p><br><p>Connect with The Athletic Football Show</p><p>X:&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TA_FootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://x.com/TA_FootballShow</a></p><p>IG:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow</a></p><p>YT:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow</a></p><p>TikTok:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow</a></p><p>Discord: <a href="http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow</a></p><p>Call us: 847-448-0701</p><p>Email us: <a href="https://open.acast.com/networks/67f9268d2308a71dab8db95a/shows/681cc905bdc60241406b737f/episodes/athleticfootballshow@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">athleticfootballshow@gmail.com</a></p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Video Producer: Katy Duffy</p><p>Audio Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Social Producer: Scott Krinch</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 players and coaches defining the 2025 NFL season

<p>It's a familiar refrain in sports media. "You can't tell the story of SPORTS TOPIC without talking about FAMOUS PLAYER/COACH." Well, who are the players and coaches without whom the story of the 2025 season would be incomplete? Old friend Nate Tice joins Robert Mays to highlight those players and coaches on this episode of The Athletic Football Show.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>3:45 Reggie Gilliam, Jackson Hawes, and the new-look Bills run game</p><p>14:20 Ben Johnson, Joe Thuney, Darnell Wright, Dan Rousher, and the new-look Bears run game</p><p>24:00 Talanoa Hufanga making an already-great Broncos defense even better</p><p>32:17 Kyle Hamilton, the Ravens fixer</p><p>43:03 Chris Shula and the transformation of the Rams</p><p>54:17 Josh McDaniels, Klayton Adams, and the rise of cohesive offenses</p><p>1:01:38 Tony Sparano Jr. changing the game for the Colts offense</p><p>1:08:21 Daniel Jones is the coolest story in the league</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>With: Nate Tice</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Video Producer: Katy Duffy</p><p>Audio Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Social Producer: Scott Krinch</p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Nate on Bluesky: @natetice.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Nate on X: @Nate_Tice</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: Arvell Reese continues his climb

<p>After a week away, Dane Brugler is back on this episode of The Athletic Football Show's Building the Beast. He and Dave Helman hand out some game balls from Week 10—hello, Arvell Reese—and then turn their attention to under-the-radar prospects making their statements as the season approaches the stretch run.</p><br><p>Connect with The Athletic Football Show</p><p>X:&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TA_FootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://x.com/TA_FootballShow</a></p><p>IG:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow</a></p><p>YT:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow</a></p><p>TikTok:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow</a></p><p>Discord: <a href="http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow</a></p><p>Call us: 847-448-0701</p><p>Email us: <a href="https://open.acast.com/networks/67f9268d2308a71dab8db95a/shows/681cc905bdc60241406b737f/episodes/athleticfootballshow@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">athleticfootballshow@gmail.com</a></p><br><p>Host: Dave Helman</p><p>Co-Host: Dane Brugler</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Video Producer: Katy Duffy</p><p>Audio Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Social Producer: Scott Krinch</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>

Trade Deadline Madness! Sauce Gardner to the Colts, Quinnen Williams to the Cowboys, and more

<p>Thank you, New York Jets, for making the 2025 NFL Trade Deadline one of the most active on record. First, the Jets swung a blockbuster deal with the Colts for Sauce Gardner. Then, the Jets sent out another supposed pillar of their defense, trading Quinnen Williams to the Cowboys. And it's not like those were the only deals made, either. Jaelen Phillips, Jakobi Meyers and Rashid Shaheed all have new homes, too. Robert Mays, Dave Helman and Derrik Klassen cover the deadline and the moves that were made on this episode of The Athletic Football Show</p><br><p>Connect with The Athletic Football Show</p><p>X:&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TA_FootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://x.com/TA_FootballShow</a></p><p>IG:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow</a></p><p>YT:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow</a></p><p>TikTok:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow</a></p><p>Discord: <a href="http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow</a></p><p>Call us: 847-448-0701</p><p>Email us: <a href="https://open.acast.com/networks/67f9268d2308a71dab8db95a/shows/681cc905bdc60241406b737f/episodes/athleticfootballshow@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">athleticfootballshow@gmail.com</a></p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Video Producer: Katy Duffy</p><p>Audio Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Social Producer: Scott Krinch</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 9 Hangover: The Seahawks make another big statement

<p>We might not have thought of the Seahawks as Super Bowl contenders before the season began. We definitely do now. They showed us why yet again in their dismantling of the Commanders on Sunday Night Football in Week 9. Robert Mays and Derrik Klassen dive into that performance on this episode of The Athletic Football Show. The guys also discuss the Jaguars' 30-29 win over the Raiders, and the Eagles and Dolphins getting trade deadline week going with a deal for Jaelen Phillips.</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Host: Derrik Klassen</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Video Producer: Katy Duffy</p><p>Audio Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Social Producer: Scott Krinch</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 9 Recap: Bills knock off Chiefs, big wins for the Steelers and Vikings, and the Packers lost to who?!?

<p>Now that's more like it. After a blowout-filled Week 8, the NFL got back to its down-to-the-wire ways in Week 9. Of course, Bills over Chiefs goes down as the big story of the day, and that's where Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman begin the Week 9 recap episode of The Athletic Football Show. The guys also discuss eye-opening wins for the Steelers and Vikings, a fireworks show between the Bears and Bengals, a puzzling loss for the Packers to the Panthers, a rock fight between the Broncos and Texans, and plenty more.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>3:14 The Bills beat the Chiefs, and might have found something on defense</p><p>22:47 The Steelers have our attention after taking down the Colts</p><p>34:45 The Vikings have our attention after upsetting the Lions</p><p>53:49 WTF?!? Packers lose to the Panthers</p><p>1:06:29 Bears/Bengals craziness</p><p>1:17:09 Broncos/Texans rock fight</p><p>1:22:23 John Parker Romo deprives us of a dramatic finish in Falcons-Patriots</p><p>1:26:25 How Can You Not be Romantic About Football?</p><p>1:31:50 What did we learn in Week 9?</p><br><p>Connect with The Athletic Football Show</p><p>X:&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TA_FootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://x.com/TA_FootballShow</a></p><p>IG:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/tafootballshow</a></p><p>YT:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@TAFootballShow</a></p><p>TikTok:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@tafootballshow</a></p><p>Discord: <a href="http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://discord.gg/theathleticfootballshow</a></p><p>Call us: 847-448-0701</p><p>Email us: <a href="https://open.acast.com/networks/67f9268d2308a71dab8db95a/shows/681cc905bdc60241406b737f/episodes/athleticfootballshow@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">athleticfootballshow@gmail.com</a></p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Video Producer: Katy Duffy</p><p>Audio Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Social Producer: Scott Krinch</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 9 Preview: It's Bills-Chiefs Week

<p>We've talked a lot in recent weeks about how every NFL season is going to throw us its fair share of curveballs. There are constants, however, and one of the most constant of the constants is Bills-Chiefs Game of the Week. That's where Robert Mays, Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman begin the Week 9 preview episode of The Athletic Football Show. The guys give the "One Thing From..." treatment to Falcons-Patriots, Colts-Steelers and Broncos-Texans, take a stroll down Sicko Street with Saints-Rams and Bears-Bengals, and ponder this question: Has it turned out that the Vikings actually had the worst offseason in the league?</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>5:12 It's Bills-Chiefs Week</p><p>33:03 The diverging paths taken by the Patriots and Falcons</p><p>41:22 The Colts and Steelers show us the duality of believing you're "a QB away"</p><p>47:28: Texans offense vs. Broncos defense</p><p>53:38 Taking stock of the AFC Wild Card picture</p><p>1:05:37 Sicko Street: Saints-Rams...and not for the reason you'd think</p><p>1:12:44 Sicko Street: The Bears better be able to score against this Bengals defense</p><p>1:16:00 Take Tribunal: The Vikings made the wrong bet this offseason</p><p>1:31:08 What do you wanna know in Week 9?</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>Co-Hosts: Derrik Klassen and Dave Helman</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Video Producer: Katy Duffy</p><p>Audio Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Social Producer: Scott Krinch</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>

Who's winning—and losing—the trenches this NFL season?

<p>Even a casual NFL fan can tell which quarterbacks, running backs and receivers are among the best in the league. It takes a more discerning eye to watch the tape and understand who's winning in the trenches on the offensive side of the ball. Brandon Thron brings just such an eye to this episode of The Athletic Football Show, where he and Robert Mays dive deep on the offensive line to identify which groups are lifting their teams this season.</p><br><p>Rundown (timestamps are approximate)</p><p>5:04 Indianapolis Colts OL at the heart of the team's success</p><p>17:16 Seattle Seahawks rebuilt OL exceeding expectations</p><p>22:38 New England Patriots helping to drive this surprisingly good offense</p><p>33:08 Minnesota Vikings OL crushed by injuries</p><p>35:32 Tennessee Titans OL the most disappointing in the league</p><p>40:40 OL coaches on the rise</p><p>44:03 Baltimore Ravens OL -- same pieces as last year, but much different results</p><p>49:30 The best OL this season at every spot</p><p>1:00:07 Pleasant surprises at every spot across the OL</p><br><p>Host: Robert Mays</p><p>With: Brandon Thorn</p><p>Executive Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Video Producer: Katy Duffy</p><p>Audio Producer: Michael Beller</p><p>Social Producer: Scott Krinch</p><br><p>Follow Robert on Bluesky: @robertmays.bsky.social</p><p>Follow Robert on X: @robertmays</p><p>Follow Brandon on X: @BrandonThornNFL</p><p>Find Brandon's work: <a href="https://trenchwarfare.substack.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://trenchwarfare.substack.com/</a></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>