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.
Episodes
Mentioned books
40 snips
Oct 13, 2025 • 1h 17min
Week 6 recap: Statement wins for the Chiefs, Buccaneers and Seahawks
The Chiefs are back on track with a powerful win over the Lions, showcasing Mahomes’ improved play. Baker Mayfield continues to impress, leading the injury-hit Buccaneers with notable performance. Seattle's defense dominated with seven sacks against the Jaguars, proving their might. The Broncos vs. Jets game left everyone baffled with its chaos. Rico Dowdle's breakout game stole the show, while Drake Maye showcased his growth. The Rams and Packers are now under scrutiny despite their wins.
45 snips
Oct 10, 2025 • 1h 21min
Week 6 preview: Lions-Chiefs and 49ers-Buccaneers at the top of a loaded slate
The hosts dive into the thrilling matchup between the Lions and Chiefs, debating if Detroit has emerged as the league's top team. They analyze the Lions' defensive strengths and the Chiefs' struggles against man coverage. The discussion shifts to the 49ers-Buccaneers clash, focusing on Mac Jones' potential versus Brock Purdy's playoff experience. Plus, they tackle the intriguing question of whether the Colts boast the most complete roster in the AFC, alongside a look at high-scoring matchups and recent trades that shake up team dynamics.
31 snips
Oct 9, 2025 • 60min
The rise of Puka Nacua, Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jaxon Smith-Njigba, with Matt Harmon
Matt Harmon, a renowned receiver analyst for Yahoo Sports and creator of Reception Perception, dives deep into the rise of Puka Nacua, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba. He discusses how these atypical receivers are reshaping the NFL landscape and their impressive early-season production. The conversation highlights Puka's elite route technician skills, Amon-Ra's toughness and versatility, and JSN's successful transition from slot to outside play. They also explore the evolving offensive schemes that favor these brave, zone-beating receivers.
Oct 8, 2025 • 1h 5min
Building the Beast: Dane Brugler's midseason top-three at every position
Halfway through the college football season, rankings are shifting for the 2026 NFL Draft. Discover top quarterbacks like Dante Moore and emerging running backs such as Jeremiah Love. Dane Brugler evaluates wide receivers with impressive route skills and tight ends who may have off-field concerns. The conversation also covers standout offensive and defensive linemen, versatile linebackers, and intriguing cornerbacks. Plus, a look ahead to key matchups testing draft prospects makes for an engaging insight into the future of football.
59 snips
Oct 7, 2025 • 1h 7min
Week 5 Hangover: The Patriots break through, the Lions cruise past the Bengals, and the Saints get their first win
The Patriots pulled off a stunning upset against the Bills, showcasing a brilliant defensive game plan. Meanwhile, the Lions ran circles around the Bengals, exploiting their mistakes and enhancing their offensive strategies. The Saints finally found their rhythm against the Giants, capitalizing on key turnovers. The hosts also fielded questions from frustrated fans lamenting their teams' woes, from the Ravens' coaching conundrum to the Jets' struggles. Insightful analysis and a dash of humor make for an engaging recap of the NFL's Week 5 drama.
40 snips
Oct 6, 2025 • 1h 27min
Week 5 recap: The Buccaneers and Seahawks put on a show, the Broncos take down the Eagles, and the Ravens hunt for the panic button
A thrilling showdown between the Buccaneers and Seahawks showcased both teams as NFC contenders in a nail-biting 38-35 finish. The Broncos pulled off a stunning upset against the Eagles, while the Patriots stunned the Bills in another surprise victory. The Ravens are in turmoil after a blowout loss to the Texans, raising questions about their season. The chaotic Cardinals-Titans game featured bizarre turnovers and missed opportunities. Lastly, inspiring comebacks from Bryce Young and Cam Ward highlighted emotional moments of the week.
54 snips
Oct 3, 2025 • 1h 27min
Week 5 preview: Two surprisingly fun matchups take center stage
This week dives into exciting matchups, highlighting the Seahawks-Buccaneers and Chargers-Commanders as must-watch games. The discussion covers Seattle's surprising offensive prowess and its formidable defense. Meanwhile, the Chargers face questions about their offensive line's ability against Washington's defense. The hosts also dissect the Patriots-Bills spotlight game and Trevor Lawrence's evolving play with the Jaguars. In a quirky twist, they explore the oddly intriguing Saints-Giants showdown and the Panthers' offensive struggles.
64 snips
Oct 2, 2025 • 1h 17min
Early returns on five new offenses across the NFL
Ollie Connolly, a writer and podcaster from The Read Optional, joins to delve into the transformations of five NFL offenses. They evaluate the Patriots' innovative play design under Josh McDaniels and Mac Jones' newfound mobility. The conversation shifts to the Bears, discussing Caleb Williams' development and the struggles of the offense as a whole. Ollie critiques the Jaguars for inconsistency despite promise, while praising the Seahawks' effective scheme and Sam Darnold's accuracy. Lastly, the duo highlights the Cowboys’ dynamic improvements and how small tweaks lead to big gains.
17 snips
Oct 1, 2025 • 1h 19min
Dante Moore's NFL Draft stock up, Drew Allar's down after Oregon-Penn State tilt
A thrilling weekend in college football shook up NFL Draft predictions! Dante Moore's stellar performance boosted his stock, while Drew Allar faced scrutiny due to inconsistent play. Ty Simpson emerged as a promising QB, and Notre Dame's RBs showcased remarkable versatility. The hosts also highlighted lesser-known prospects making waves, like Ohio State defenders. Plus, they discussed early-season standouts for the NFL All-Rookie Team and debated rookie quarterbacks, with Cam Ward taking the lead despite team struggles.
57 snips
Sep 30, 2025 • 57min
Week 4 Hangover: The Texans get their first win, the Lions survive the Browns defense, and the Bills stay undefeated
The Texans celebrated their first win with a 26-0 thrashing of the Titans, showcasing impressive offensive tweaks. Meanwhile, the Lions triumphed over a formidable Browns defense, despite their own inconsistencies. The Bills managed to stay undefeated, overcoming defensive struggles against the Saints. Injuries are piling up for the Ravens, raising concerns for their upcoming matchups. The show wraps up with listener voicemails, including fan frustrations from the Colts and Vikings, adding a relatable touch to the analysis.
