The Athletic Football Show: A show about the NFL The Patriots' one-season about-face meets the Seahawks' ruthless climb to the top of the league in Super Bowl LX
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Feb 3, 2026 
Michael-Shawn Dugar, Seattle beat writer who tracked the Seahawks’ offensive rebuild and coaching rise. Chad Graff, New England beat writer who chronicled the Patriots’ one-season turnaround. They break down New England’s aggressive offseason hits and coaching influence. They trace Seattle’s trades, playmakers, and Mike McDonald’s culture. Short takes on key role players, scheme shifts, and playoff moments.
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Adaptive Defense Fueled By Unexpected Play Caller
- Zach Kaur emerged from a nontraditional coaching path and constantly reshaped the Patriots' defensive approach.
- Chad Graff highlights that the defense morphed schemes, blitz rates, and light-box usage throughout the season.
From College Offense To NFL Defensive Play Caller
- Zach Kaur's coaching path included offensive roles and quality-control stops before suddenly calling NFL defenses.
- Michael-Shawn Dugar and Chad Graff recount Kaur going from low-level jobs to calling plays after a staff medical crisis.
Rookie Safety Became A Playoff Glue
- Rookie safety Craig Woodson rose from a fourth-round pick to a pivotal playoff contributor covering many needs.
- Chad Graff highlights Woodson's unexpected impact and the Patriots' successful rookie class deployment.