In this lively discussion, Kevin Clark, host of This is Football, shares his expertise on the NFL and college football landscape. He dives into Tua Tagovailoa's playoff hopes with the Dolphins amidst cold weather fears. The rivalry between Texas and Texas A&M sizzles, as do potential playoff shifts for Boise State. Clark also debates Saquon Barkley's MVP odds against Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson. Plus, he examines the defensive woes of the Ravens and job security concerns for Eagles coach Nick Sirianni. A feast of football insights for the holiday!
The podcast emphasizes the challenge for sports writers to balance holiday celebrations with covering crucial NFL and college matchups during Thanksgiving.
There is a significant focus on how weather conditions impact team performance, with the Dolphins' historical struggles in cold weather being a key point of discussion.
Deep dives
Navigating Holiday Football Coverage
Covering the NFL during major holidays like Thanksgiving often requires a delicate balance between professional obligations and personal celebrations. Sports writers frequently find themselves glued to the screen, hoping for poor matchups, allowing them to briefly step away for holiday activities. One writer recalls missing the infamous 'butt fumble' moment live because he chose to grab Thanksgiving food, highlighting the unpredictable nature of holiday coverage. The work culture in sports presents unique challenges, as many professionals feel they cannot fully partake in traditional holiday celebrations due to the demands of their job.
Key Matchups to Watch
With multiple NFL and college games set during the Thanksgiving weekend, identifying key matchups can greatly enhance the viewing experience. Experts suggest prioritizing the game between the Packers and Dolphins, which has the potential to be a thrilling encounter due to both teams' strengths and past performances. Meanwhile, Bears vs. Lions and Cowboys vs. Giants appear less compelling, especially for those who enjoy quality football. Yet, even less entertaining matchups can offer an opportunity for family bonding as fans navigate their holiday schedules.
The Impact of Cold Weather on Teams
As the Dolphins prepare to face the Packers in frigid conditions, the discussion turns to how weather influences game performance, especially for teams from warmer climates. Historically, the Dolphins have struggled in cold weather, leading to skepticism about their ability to succeed in Green Bay. Notably, players like Tua Tagovailoa have publicly expressed their desire to overcome cold-weather narratives associated with the team. This situation raises questions about preparation strategies, as teams may need to adapt their playstyle to account for such environmental challenges.
College Football Playoff Implications
As college football approaches the playoff season, several teams remain in contention, making the upcoming games particularly significant. Boise State, Colorado, and Ole Miss are highlighted as teams with complicated playoff hopes, each facing crucial matchups. Colorado's star players, including Travis Hunter, are expected to play pivotal roles in their performance and potential playoff positioning. Observing how these dynamics unfold in meaningful games, like the matchup between Texas and Texas A&M, will provide insight into the broader college playoff landscape.
We have arrived at Thanksgiving eve. And while you may be getting your stomachs ready for a meal full of all the fixings, don’t forget the annual football feast you will soon digest as well. Between the NFL and college, it’s four days of high stakes games to squeeze-in between all the family festivities.
Will Tua Tagovailoa and the Miami Dolphins finally beat the cold weather curse? Have the Chicago Bears and Caleb Williams turned the corner with new Offensive Coordinator Thomas Brown? Who will bolster their playoff case as Texas and Texas A&M face each other for the first time in 13 years? And how’s the Heisman race shaping up? So many things to chew on and we are here to feed those thoughts.
Today, Kevin Clark, host of This is Football, helps sift through the playoff implications at both levels and shares his recipe for understanding the difference between matchups of both the savory and unpalatable varieties.
Other topics include:
Can Tua Tagovailoa and the Dolphins get back into the playoff mix?
Does a bad matchup between the New York Giants and Dallas Cowboys mean the NFL should change its approach to Thanksgiving?
Is Colorado Buffalo Travis Hunter the Heisman favorite?
Could Boise State leapfrog to a first round bye?
Should Alabama be on upset alert again?
Can Saquon Barkley beat out Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson for the MVP?
Can the Baltimore Ravens fix their defensive flaws?
Is it possible for Nick Sirianni to ever have job security in Philadelphia?