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
32 snips
Dec 9, 2025 Disappointment looms for the Vikings, Commanders, Titans, and Browns as they analyze recent games and futures. The Vikings showcase a powerful running game with a 31-0 win over Washington, while the Titans pull off a thrilling 31-29 victory against the Browns. Fans vent their frustrations in spirited Monday Mourning segments, highlighting issues with the Colts and Falcons. The hosts dissect coaching uncertainties, offensive struggles, and the daunting rebuilding tasks ahead for the Commanders and Browns.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Vikings' Run Game Reveals Intended Identity
- The Vikings finally showed the run-first identity they'd planned by rushing 34 times for 162 yards and 4.8 yards per carry.
- That offensive line continuity enabled a version of the team they hoped to be all season.
McCarthy: Promising Arm, Unsteady Process
- JJ McCarthy flashed high-end throws but remained erratic with poor pocket decisions and untaken checkdowns.
- The performance felt familiar: better in result than in consistent process, raising questions about his development.
Washington's Multi-Year Resource Problem
- Washington faces a deeper rebuild than record implies: oldest roster, few draft picks, and many top picks not producing.
- Limited draft capital and aging starters mean cap space may not solve structural roster needs.