The Ringer NFL Show

Billy Gil, a sports writer and commentator for The Ringer, joins to discuss the surprising return of Philip Rivers, now 44, to the Indianapolis Colts. They debate whether this comeback is a smart move and what it means for Rivers' legacy. Gil shares insights on the intriguing dynamics of the Colts' quarterback room, including how Rivers' family and recent coaching experience may have influenced this decision. With a blend of excitement and skepticism, they explore Rivers' potential impact and the entertainment value of a veteran resurgence.

Sheil Kapadia sits down with Mike Sando, a Senior NFL writer at The Athletic, known for his sharp analysis of teams and players. They dive into the AFC landscape in light of the Chiefs' struggles, evaluating New England's strong coaching and defense as a frontrunner. The Buffalo Bills' dynamic offense led by Josh Allen and their defensive challenges also come under scrutiny. Mike highlights the Texans' elite defense and the Jaguars' mixed potential with Trevor Lawrence at the helm, all while assessing who might make a playoff splash.

Austin Gayle, a sharp staff writer and NFL analyst for The Ringer, joins Sheil for an insightful discussion on Week 14's key outcomes. They dive into the Kansas City Chiefs' struggles, exploring Mahomes' alarming drop-off in performance and the team's roster issues. The duo debates the Steelers' potential to dominate the AFC North and dissects the controversial overturned touchdown catch by Isaiah Likely. Additionally, they highlight the Texans' defensive improvements and evaluate the Colts' tricky situation following Daniel Jones' injury.

JP Acosta, a sports journalist and CBS Sports podcast host, joins to analyze the Lions' impressive victory over the Cowboys. They dive into Dan Campbell's strategic decisions that led to an offensive explosion. The duo also critiques the Cowboys' season, highlighting roster mismanagement and defensive breakdowns. As they glance ahead, JP predicts a tightly contested Bears-Packers game, while both weigh in on the Chiefs' critical matchup against the Texans and what it means for their playoff hopes.

In this discussion, ESPN writer Ben Solak dives into the heated NFL awards races, focusing on MVP front-runners like Drake May and Matthew Stafford. He explains why May’s impact makes him the more valuable candidate. The conversation also touches on Coach of the Year contenders, including Mike McDonald and Shane Steichen, debate on Offensive Player of the Year between Jackson Smith-Njigba and Jonathan Taylor, and the standout performances of players like Jameer Gibbs. They wrap up with a preview of the Lions vs. Cowboys matchup.

In a thrilling analysis, NFL reporter Pat Daugherty dives into the precarious futures of several head coaches. He predicts Pete Carroll's likely exit and dissects the future of Kevin Stefanski, eyeing a potential move to the Giants or Eagles. They explore coaches like Mike McDaniel who find themselves on the fence, and consider surprising names like John Harbaugh and Mike Tomlin as trade possibilities. The discussion wraps up with a focus on the Giants' troubling leadership, suggesting big changes could be on the horizon.

Diante Lee, a Ringer NFL analyst, joins to dive into the nerves of Ravens, Steelers, and Eagles fans as the 2025 season intensifies. He scrutinizes Baltimore's collapse on Thanksgiving, discussing Lamar Jackson’s struggles and the team’s playoff hopes. The conversation shifts to Pittsburgh’s offensive issues and fan frustrations, labeling it a potential disaster. Diante describes the Eagles as a talented but undisciplined squad, critiquing their reliance on raw talent over strategy, risking further decline as the season reaches its climax.

Austin Gayle, a staff writer and NFL analyst at The Ringer, joins Sheil to tackle the burning questions following Week 13 of the NFL season. They debate who will snag the NFC's top seed, weighing the Rams, Bears, and Seahawks. Austin shares insights on the Jaguars' potential and why they might falter, while also highlighting Houston as a dark horse in the AFC South. The duo dives into the struggles of the Chiefs and Lions, analyzing injuries and performance issues that may derail their playoff hopes.

Steven Ruiz, a writer and NFL analyst for The Ringer, joins Sheil to dive into the juicy storylines brewing for Week 13. They predict an upset with the Cowboys stunning the Chiefs, thanks to their strong run defense and matchup advantages. The duo also debates whether the AFC South is the league's most captivating division, analyzing pivotal matchups. Additionally, they explore the Eagles' run game issues and the intriguing potential of Joe Brady leading the Bills, while contemplating the enigmatic nature of Josh Allen's performances.

Billy Gil, a witty writer and contributor at The Ringer, joins Sheil Kapadia to express gratitude during the 2025 NFL season. They dive into the appeal of Black Friday football, debating its future beyond one day. Celebrating teams defying expectations, they discuss playoff hopes, led by players like Jahmyr Gibbs. The conversation takes a quirky turn with a showdown over Thanksgiving ham and nostalgia-filled mall food court memories. They highlight the significance of both traditionalist and analytical views in football discourse, wrapping up with a heartfelt thanks to listeners.