The Athletic Football Show: A show about the NFL

Seth Wickersham, a Senior writer at ESPN known for his deep dives into the Patriots dynasty, joins David Ubben, host of The Athletic's Until Saturday podcast, to discuss the surprising shift of Bill Belichick to UNC. They explore Belichick's motivations for returning to college football and the mentorship he can provide to young athletes. The conversation highlights Belichick's unique coaching philosophy, emphasizing the blend of tradition and modern tactics that defines his legacy, along with the evolving role of education in football.

Matt Harmon, an analyst at Yahoo specializing in wide receiver analysis, joins to discuss the 2024 NFL season's standout players like Ja'Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson. He dives into the performances of rookies and the disappointments of teams like the Bears and Texans. The conversation covers the evolving dynamics of wide receivers and their strategic connections with quarterbacks. Harmon also evaluates player metrics, the impact of injuries, and the importance of versatile roles in shaping successful offensive strategies.

The thrilling Week 15 recap spotlights the Bills' significant win over the Lions, hinting at a potential Super Bowl matchup. Jalen Hurts captures attention with a standout performance, while the Texans defense showcases impressive dominance. The Buccaneers find offensive rhythm against the Chargers, prompting discussions on their evolving strategies. Chaos reigns in the Bengals vs. Titans clash, littered with turnovers and penalties. The Chiefs grapple with pass protection struggles, leaving fans intrigued about playoff prospects.

Chase Daniel, a seasoned NFL quarterback with 14 years of experience, and Dianna Russini, Senior NFL insider for The Athletic, dive into Bill Belichick's intriguing move to North Carolina. They discuss the dynamics of NFL coaching shifts and quarterback futures, highlighting key players and coaching influences. The conversation navigates the stark differences between NHL and college football coaching, including recruitment challenges and nostalgic anecdotes. Expect plenty of insider scoops and light-hearted banter!

In a thrilling Week 15 preview, the matchup between the Bills and Lions takes center stage, hinting at a possible Super Bowl showdown. The hosts dive into the crucial Colts-Broncos clash, discussing playoff implications amidst injuries. Analysis of Steelers versus Eagles raises concerns about Pittsburgh's sputtering offense. With strategic insights into Packers-Seahawks and Buccaneers-Chargers games, there's plenty to dissect. The quarterbacks' performances are also scrutinized, revealing the complexities and stakes of the current NFL landscape.

Paul Dehner Jr., The Athletic's Bengals writer, dives into the struggles of the Cincinnati Bengals and other would-be contenders like the Cowboys, 49ers, Jets, and Dolphins. He discusses the impact of injuries, the need for strategic drafting, and savvy free agency moves. Key players like Joe Burrow and Jamar Chase showcase talent, yet roster management and financial decisions loom large. The conversation emphasizes the importance of recalibrating for a stronger push in 2025 as these teams aim for redemption.

Conor Orr, a seasoned sports journalist, joins Jourdan Rodrigue, The Athletic's Rams writer, and Alec Lewis, Vikings specialist, to navigate the evolving NFL coaching landscape. They discuss the surprising coaching vacancies likely to emerge, touching on Bill Belichick's uncertain future. Orr highlights the rise of Kevin O'Connell as a key figure, marking a shift in coaching strategies. Insights on potential first-time coordinators and off-the-beaten-path candidates add depth to the conversation, showcasing the dynamic nature of NFL coaching.

Week 14 brought a stunning Rams-Bills clash, with Josh Allen putting on an impressive performance despite the loss. The intense battle has significant implications for the NFC West race. Meanwhile, Patrick Mahomes showcased his late-game brilliance, and Sam Darnold caught attention with his play. Concerns arise for the Eagles' passing game, while the Giants struggle with red zone woes. Plus, a look at how coaching decisions and quarterback dynamics shape the season as teams gear up for an unpredictable final month.

In this discussion, Brad Spielberger, Director of Football Administration at Grand Central Sports Management, shares his insights on the evolution of quarterback contracts. He highlights the staggering rise in salaries and its impact on team dynamics. The conversation covers the balance teams must maintain between securing elite talent and managing a cohesive roster. Additionally, they explore the influence of coaching on quarterback performance and the emergence of new contract structures in the ever-shifting NFL landscape.

Week 14 brings thrilling NFL matchups, highlighted by the Lions’ stunning win over the Packers. The Chiefs face the Chargers in a pivotal showdown. The Seahawks battle the Cardinals, while a strategic analysis dives into the Rams' running game against the Bills’ defense. The dynamic between young quarterbacks like Bryce Young and established veterans raises questions about team futures. A debate unfolds on whether the Bengals or Cowboys are better positioned for success in the upcoming seasons, pairing playoff implications with quarterback dynamics.