The Athletic Football Show: A show about the NFL Mailbag Monday: Worst QB rooms of the past decade, Protector of the Year Award, which low-expectations teams can make the playoffs, and more
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Jun 23, 2025 Listeners dive into the depths of NFL quarterback struggles, uncovering the worst QB rooms of the last decade, including tales of the 2017 Browns. The new Protector of the Year Award is introduced, celebrating standout offensive linemen. An intriguing discussion unfolds about low-expectation teams that might just make a playoff splash. Alongside a mix of personal anecdotes and lighthearted movie debates, the hosts explore how coaching impacts player performance and team reputations shift expectations in unexpected ways.
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Challenges in Evaluating Play Callers
- Evaluating play callers means separating their impact from quarterback talent and support staff.
- It's easier to assess when they work with lesser talent, but elite QB presence complicates credit attribution.
2014 Browns Showcase Shanahan
- The 2014 Browns offense peaked with Brian Hoyer and Alex Mack before injuries derailed it.
- Kyle Shanahan impressed by elevating a low-talent Browns offense impressively that year, showing his coaching potential.
Fandom's Impact on Journalism
- Many journalists openly support teams but balance fandom and professionalism effectively.
- Open fandom doesn't inherently diminish analytical quality if managed responsibly.