The Athletic Football Show: A show about the NFL Is This Real?...with Bill Barnwell
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Sep 18, 2025 Joining Robert Mays, Bill Barnwell, a Senior NFL analyst at ESPN, dives into the early-season drama of the NFL. They assess the Colts' surprising offensive prowess and project the Packers as potential frontrunners. The discussion heats up as they dissect the Bears' struggles and the growing anxiety surrounding the Chiefs. The conversation also touches on the Falcons' impressive pass rush and the Vikings' challenging quarterback choices. Tune in for insightful analysis and some delightful NFL storytelling!
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Packers Are Actually Playing Like The Best Team
- The Packers look legitimately elite on both sides of the ball and lack obvious flaws through two weeks.
- Adding Micah Parsons plus strong young depth has created a roster that can sustain high play despite injuries.
Parsons Changed The Packers' Defensive Equation
- Micah Parsons' presence transformed Green Bay's front and allowed defensive versatility that boosts overall unit performance.
- Young depth and schemed stunts from the line coach amplified the pass rush without surrendering lanes to scramblers.
Chiefs' Problems Go Beyond A Few Missed Plays
- The Chiefs' 0-2 start reflects deeper issues: lack of a reliable playcaller identity, weak design run game, and limited non-scramble passing success.
- Both hosts fear Kansas City currently lacks dependable built-in tendencies to lean on.