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
74 snips
Jan 5, 2026 • 1h 23min
Week 18 Recap: Seahawks and Broncos lock up top seeds, Panthers back into playoffs, and more
Week 18 brought high stakes with the Seahawks clinching the NFC's top seed through a dominant defensive performance. The discussion dives into the Ravens-Steelers showdown and its playoff implications, as well as the Panthers' surprising journey to the NFC South title despite a chaotic finish. Key moments, like clutch plays and coaching decisions, are dissected. The hosts also reflect on the emotional connections football fosters and preview upcoming Wild Card matchups that promise excitement and drama.
43 snips
Jan 2, 2026 • 1h 13min
Week 18 Preview: Three division titles on the line, including Seahawks-49ers for all the NFC marbles
As the NFL season reaches its climax, the stakes are higher than ever! The hosts delve into the vital matchup between the Seahawks and 49ers, assessing their playoff implications and ultimate quest for the NFC's top seed. They also dissect the rivalry between the Ravens and Steelers, highlighting each team's strategies and potential weaknesses. Plus, the Panthers and Buccaneers battle for divisional supremacy in an unpredictable NFC South. Stay tuned for key player incentives, game momentum insights, and juicy stats to keep your football knowledge sharp!
21 snips
Jan 1, 2026 • 1h 3min
Silver linings for 2025's bad teams
Explore the silver linings for the NFL's struggling teams as hosts point out intriguing prospects for the future. The Raiders may have a chance for a franchise reset with a top draft pick. The Giants boast a promising young nucleus, despite health concerns. The Jets shine with a solid offensive line and draft capital, while the Titans showcase QB potential and lineup improvements. Meanwhile, the Cardinals have strong receivers, and the Browns celebrate a hit rookie class. The Commanders and Saints also reveal hope amid challenges.
Dec 31, 2025 • 1h 8min
Building the Beast: The NFL Draft prospects with the most at stake in the CFP quarterfinals
Dane Brugler, a seasoned draft analyst, joins Dave Helman to dissect the NFL draft implications surrounding the CFP quarterfinals. They break down key matchups like Miami vs. Ohio State, highlighting prospects like Ruben Bain and Akeem Mesador. Dane shares how a standout performance could elevate David Bailey into the top draft talk. The duo also compares QBs Fernando Mendoza and Ty Simpson, examining how their performances could swing team interests. Expect insights on emerging talents and draft stakes as the stakes rise!
25 snips
Dec 30, 2025 • 1h 14min
Why did these eight teams flop in 2025?
The hosts dive into the disappointing seasons of eight NFL teams, exploring how the Lions, Chiefs, and Ravens fell from Super Bowl favorites to underperformers. Key discussions include the Lions' injuries and coaching problems, the Cowboys’ defensive collapse, and the Bengals' struggles with quarterback health. They consider the Colts' alarming trade outcomes, the Vikings' QB growing pains, and the Falcons' offensive stagnation. Finally, they analyze whether the Ravens’ struggles are temporary and what fixes could restore these teams' fortunes.
45 snips
Dec 29, 2025 • 1h 34min
Week 17 Recap: 49ers win thriller over Bears, Eagles outlast Bills, Drake Maye dazzles, and more
Week 17 delivered electrifying matchups, highlighted by the 49ers' thrilling win over the Bears. Brock Purdy showcased his skills, while Caleb Williams shined in his rookie debut. The Eagles edged out the Bills in a defensive battle, raising concerns about Buffalo's offense and Josh Allen's health. The Texans clinched a playoff spot with a stunning performance against the Chargers, who struggled with turnovers. Baltimore's ground game thrived, and the NFC South remains unpredictable, with chaos among the Bucs and Panthers.
42 snips
Dec 26, 2025 • 1h 7min
Week 17 Preview: Massive division title and playoff seeding stakes on the line
As Week 17 approaches, the stakes are heating up in the NFL. Eleven playoff spots are filled, but the final AFC Wild Card berth is still in play, mostly leaning towards the Texans. The hosts analyze matchups, from the Cowboys-Commanders being entertaining yet inconsequential, to the Vikings' emerging defense. They investigate how Baltimore's explosive run game can be contained by Green Bay and preview the pivotal roles of quarterbacks in crucial matchups. Expect analysis on playoff implications and exciting narratives in the final stretch!
28 snips
Dec 23, 2025 • 54min
Week 16 Hangover: Bills and Texans get necessary, but unconvincing, wins over bad teams
The Bills and Texans snagged playoff spots but not without displaying some concerning performances. The hosts dissect Buffalo's ho-hum win over the Browns, focusing on Josh Allen's second-half struggles and an over-reliance on the ground game. Meanwhile, the Texans’ shaky offense against the Raiders raises eyebrows, with praise for individual standout plays amidst passing inconsistencies. They also dive into the potential tanking of the Raiders and critique coaching decisions in the wake of underwhelming wins.
25 snips
Dec 22, 2025 • 1h 42min
Week 16 Recap: Bears stun Packers, Jaguars throttle Broncos, Panthers take NFC South lead, and more
Week 16 delivered some jaw-dropping moments, with the Bears staging a thrilling overtime comeback against the Packers. The Jaguars crushed the Broncos, showcasing Trevor Lawrence's impressive gameplay. Meanwhile, the Panthers surged to the top of the NFC South by defeating the Buccaneers. Justin Herbert's arm talent shone as the Chargers outclassed the Cowboys. Amidst all the chaos, the hosts reflect on what makes us fall in love with football, highlighting young quarterbacks and their evolving skills.
46 snips
Dec 19, 2025 • 1h 31min
Week 16 Preview: Unlikely AFC division leaders step into the spotlight
Jaguars versus Broncos steals the spotlight as two unlikely AFC division leaders clash. The analysis digs into Jacksonville's offensive line issues and Denver's defensive strengths. Meanwhile, the Patriots face the Ravens in a battle of contrasting strategies, questioning Lamar Jackson's health and impact. The hosts explore intriguing matchups across the league, from the Bears' pass rush to the Texans’ evolving offense. Plus, a fun debate on future quarterbacks adds a twist! Tune in for all the essential insights!
