Truly, the 1980s and early 1990s were an amazing time for NFL football fans. After all, this was the era of the 1983 Quarterbacks, the titans whose arms willed their teams to Super Bowls, and it was also an era of dynasties. Where several teams cemented their standing as the best in the land and one particular team that fit that bill was the San Francisco 49ers. For their ‘Gold Rush’ era netted them five Super Bowl Championships during that era, behind the leadership and skill of Joe Montana and Steve Young. 
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In fact, it was such an iconic run that many debate to this day if it was perhaps one of the greatest dynasties in the league’s illustrious history and its kept Joe and Steve in the heart of the debate as to who is the greatest quarterback of all time, and well, it makes sense then, why AMC Networks has green lit a docuseries about that era in the team’s history. So that fans that watched ‘The Catch’ take place can reminiscence, while others can learn about an era of football that shaped the sport today, and well, we just so happen to have all the details on Gold Rush, so you can prepare to immerse yourself in this amazing series when it arrives next year.

‘AMC Networks announced that it has greenlit the sports docuseries Gold Rush (WT), an AMC Studios and Skydance Sports co-production with producing partners NFL Films, Religion of Sports (ROS) and Tom Brady (for both ROS and 199 Productions). The four-episode series will explore the dramatic and iconic run of the San Francisco 49ers’ during the ‘80s and early ‘90s, when the club rose from an also-ran into pro football’s most glamorous franchise. The series is set to premeire exclusively on AMC and AMC+ in 2026.
 
Utilizing rare and never-before-seen footage from NFL Films, including video of team speeches and behind-the-scenes photos of San Francisco’s legendary head coach Bill Walsh, the series will feature incisive interviews with club legends (and Pro Football Hall of Fame inductees) such as Joe Montana, Jerry Rice, Ronnie Lott, Steve Young and Eddie DeBartolo Jr., among others. Each episode will also feature on-camera contributions from Brady, a San Mateo, CA native and life-long 49ers fan.
 
During the “Gold Rush” reign from 1981 to 1995, San Francisco won five Super Bowls and revolutionized the sport, on and off the field. The club also became a cultural unifier at a time of tectonic shifts in the Bay Area, as the region emerged as “Silicon Valley,” was nearly destroyed by an earthquake, and became well-known for its wine, LGBT advocacy and music scene.
 
The series will be directed by ROS co-founder Gotham Chopra and Ken Rodgers of NFL Films, who have each won multiple Emmys for their work and have collaborated previously on several high-profile projects, including Man in the Arena, the 2021 ESPN series about Brady’s singular career with the New England Patriots and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and The Great Brady Heist, which aired on FOX. The series showrunners will be Ryan Kelly (The Great Brady Heist) and Nick Mascolo (30 for 30: The Tuck Rule) of NFL Films. The series’ executive producers are Jesse Sisgold, Jason Reed and Jon Weinbach from Skydance Sports, Ross Ketover, Keith Cossrow, Ken Rodgers and Jessica Boddy from NFL Films, and Chopra, Brady and Ameeth Sankaran from ROS.
 
“This is a docuseries that has the stakes, storylines and scale to stand alongside our scripted dramas in the best way possible,” said Dan McDermott, president of entertainment and AMC Studios for AMC Networks. “What an opportunity to bring these remarkable championship seasons back to life in a way that could only be possible with this dream team of producing partners. We’ve seen some incredibly entertaining and authoritative sports documentaries in recent years, and we will do that proud history justice with a series worthy of this team, this city, these unforgettable personalities and one of football’s most storied dynasties.”
 
“The 49ers Dynasty changed everything,” said Ken Rodgers, NFL Films executive producer. “In between the Super Bowl victories by Green Bay and Pittsburgh in the 60’s and 70’s, and the high-flying victories by the Cowboys and Patriots in the 90’s and 2000’s, the NFL was changed forever by San Francisco’s performance on the field and their approach to the sport off the field. Thanks to our partners at AMC, Skydance Sports and Religion of Sports, we finally get to tell the story of the dynasty that created the modern NFL.”
 
“The ‘80s 49ers are the flashpoint for the NFL as we know it today,” said Gotham Chopra, co-founder and Executive Producer at Religion of Sports. “The coaching brilliance, the superstar players, the corporate ambition and cunningness – that’s pretty much every team in the modern NFL and corporate America at large. This is a cultural allegory bigger than football and there are no better partners than AMC, Skydance, NFL Films and my friend Ken Rodgers to tell it with.”
 
About AMC Networks
AMC Networks (Nasdaq: AMCX) is home to many of the greatest stories and characters in TV and film and the premier destination for passionate and engaged fan communities around the world. The company creates and curates celebrated series and films across distinct brands and makes them available to audiences everywhere. Its portfolio includes targeted streaming services AMC+, Acorn TV, Shudder, Sundance Now, ALLBLK and HIDIVE; cable networks AMC, BBC AMERICA (operated through a joint venture with BBC Studios, which includes U.S. distribution and sales responsibilities for BBC News), IFC, SundanceTV and WE tv; and film distribution labels IFC Films and RLJE Films. The company also operates AMC Studios, its in-house studio, production and distribution operation behind acclaimed and fan-favorite originals including The Walking Dead Universe and the Anne Rice Immortal Universe; and AMC Networks International, its international programming business.
 
About Skydance Sports
Skydance Sports, the joint venture between the NFL and Skydance, has quickly become the preeminent studio for leagues, teams, elite athletes and A-List Hollywood talent seeking to produce premium, sports-related entertainment.
 
Initially launched in 2021, the studio’s first two projects include the Sports Emmy-nominated docuseries Good Rivals and the critically acclaimed film Air which received two Golden Globe Award nominations including “Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy.” In 2022, Skydance partnered with the NFL and NFL Films on a joint venture to significantly expand multi-platform programming across sports in a broad range of formats for partners, fans, and viewers around the world. The partnership’s projects include the upcoming docuseries America’s Team: The Gambler and His Cowboys chronicling the Dallas Cowboys' dynasty and franchise owner Jerry Jones, a documentary feature Elway, and a docuseries on tennis icon Rafael Nadal for Netflix, as well as  the Hallmark Christmas movie Holiday Touchdown: A Bills Love Story, a docuseries on the Kansas City Chiefs with ESPN, and a scripted series for Hulu written and executive produced by Dan Fogelman set inside the world of the NFL. Recently released projects include Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story, Aaron Rodgers: Enigma, Freediver, Hard Knocks: Offseason with the New York Giants and the Sports Emmy-nominated NFL Draft: The Pick Is In and Kelce.
 
About Religion of Sports
Religion of Sports (ROS) is an award-winning media company founded by Tom Brady, Michael Strahan, and Gotham Chopra. A diverse creative collective, ROS delivers thoughtful, elevated stories that explore a range of themes and uncover why sports matter. Since its inception in 2017, the Los Angeles-based company has built an impressive array of work in collaboration with the world’s most beloved athletes and figures. ROS produces content that is intimate, personal, and character driven. Rooted in the power of storytelling, ROS’s mission has grown beyond sports to spotlighting artists and innovators across music, spirituality, fashion, and more. Through scripted and unscripted video, podcasts, feature films and social content, ROS distills the spirituality, science and humanity that unites elite performers and people of all kinds.
 
About NFL Films
NFL Films is widely recognized as the most honored filmmaker in sports and continues to produce innovative franchises and documentaries across multiple networks and platforms. With 138 Sports Emmy Awards to its credit, NFL Films remains a gold standard in premium sports content, providing an elevated and connected viewer experience with unprecedented access to the athlete story. NFL Films is a part of NFL Media, the owned and operated media division of the National Football League, which is comprised of NFL Network, NFL Films, the NFL App, NFL.com, NFL+ and NFL RedZone. For more information on NFL Films, visit NFLFilms.com.’

There was a time where documentaries about sports… were reflective in nature. Wherein they would reflect upon an incredible season for an incredible team or spotlight some amazing achievements from a special player. But somewhere along the line, that all changed. Because these days, sports documentaries are quite intimate in nature. For fans are now able to follow a team during a season to get that first-hand look at what life is like in a particular league and it just so happens that Peacock is about offer up their own in season documentary of one popular and iconic football team. For earlier today, Peacock released the trailer for Here Comes the Irish, a docuseries that is squarely focused on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, a truly iconic team through and through, and this series… will indeed deliver as promised.
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In that it will follow the team during the 2024-2025 college football season and spend time with the players and the coaches to give fans of the Irish, and football fans in general, an inside look at this team, how it works, what the lives of the players look like… all of it. Which will make for compelling television to say the least, and it will indeed explore this team like never before and wonderfully bookend Peacock’s standard coverage of the team since they will be streaming the games on Saturdays. And well… since you’re undoubtedly intrigued about getting to know one of sports most iconic franchises in an up close and personal manner, here are all the details on the show, and that teaser for you to enjoy, as we kick off the college football season in style, courtesy of Peacock.

'Premiering August 29 on Peacock, Here Come The Irish documents life on and off the field of the legendary University of Notre Dame Fighting Irish football team through exclusive behind-the-scenes footage and interviews with those closest to the program.  

Featured interviews include Head Coach Marcus Freeman and former Head Coach Lou Holtz; current Fighting Irish coaching staff and players including QB Riley Leonard and CB Benjamin Morrison; close University of Notre Dame affiliates and more. 

New episodes premiere on the following dates:
·         Thursday, August 29: Episodes 1 & 2 
·         Thursday, December 5: Episodes 3 & 4 
·         Thursday, December 19: Episodes 5 & 6 
·         Thursday, January 16, 2025: Episode 7 

Peacock will stream all of NBC Sports’ 2024 Notre Dame Football schedule, detailed below: 
·         Sept 7 – 3:30PM ET vs. Northern Illinois – NBC & Peacock 
·         Sept 21 – 3:30PM ET vs. Miami (Ohio) – NBC & Peacock 
·         Sept 28 – 3:30PM ET vs. Louisville – Peacock Exclusive 
·         Oct 12 – 3:30PM ET vs. Stanford – NBC & Peacock 
·         Nov 9 – 7:30PM ET vs. Florida State – NBC & Peacock 
·         Nov 16 – 3:30PM ET vs. Virginia – NBC & Peacock 
·         Nov 23 – 7PM ET vs. Army @ Yankee Stadium – NBC & Peacock
 
ABOUT HERE COME THE IRISH:
Here Come The Irish offers an in-depth look at the Notre Dame Fighting Irish football team, exploring their lives on and off the field. On the field, witness the intense training regimens, strategic game preparations, and the electrifying atmosphere of game days. Off the field, the series delves into the academic commitments, personal stories, and the motivation to be college football's best. Through exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, and a deep dive into the rich history of Notre Dame football, this series paints a comprehensive picture of the dedication, perseverance, and spirit that define this legendary program. 

ABOUT THE DOCUSERIES:
Premiere: The first two episodes will debut Thursday, August 29; episodes 3 & 4 will debut Thursday, December 5; episodes 5 & 6 will debut Thursday, December 19; and the finale will debut Thursday, January 16, 2025.    
Director: John Fornaro 
Executive Producers: Jon Asher, Katy Lonergan, Shalika Shetty 
Produced By: Fighting Irish Media 
Format: Docuseries, 7 x 30 min'

This is it football fans, we are now in the twilight of the NFL season and while we should feel melancholy about it, let’s be honest… we don’t. Because there are still a lot of great games for us to enjoy this weekend and a lot of playoff spots to still be clinched. Which means we should be in for some epic football this weekend, complete with upsets and big moments and well, with that in mind, let’s not waste any time and dive right in… and preview all the wonder that Week 16 in the NFL is going to send our way.
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Will Tampa Bay be able to beat the Cardinals?
Normally, that’s a question I wouldn’t even ask. Because the Cardinals are oft terrible, this year included and the Bucs have Tom Brady, who uh… is normally awesome, save for this year. And it is his disgusting play and inability to drive his offense at the moment, that begs that question. Because the Cardinals are hungry for a win and eager to enjoy one over the GOAT and there is a very good chance that might happen. Because something is very wrong in Tampa Bay, and they continue to pay the price for their lack of cohesion and leadership.
 
Can the Detroit Lions win four in a row?
It really is quite amazing where the Lions are at right now. Because everyone, this writer included, forgot about them and left them in our memories as the season rolled along. But they have really come together as a team, and they are firing on all cylinders and are even in the playoff mix. Of course, a win this weekend will go a long way in potentially furthering their postseason chances, and honestly, I think they can pull it off. Because they’re facing the lowly Panthers on Saturday. A team that just can’t get out of their own way and there’s a good chance this team will school the Panthers on their way to a potential playoff berth, as they continue to prove everyone wrong when it comes to their abilities on the field.  
 
Will benching Matt Ryan help the Colts?
Earlier this week, the Colts decided it was best to bench the quarterback responsible for some unfortunate NFL records, in the hopes of jump starting their team and keeping their longshot, but active playoff hopes alive and well, will such a move make a difference? Honestly, I don’t think so. Because while Nick Foles is indeed a talented QB that has a Super Bowl ring, it’s the coaching that is as much to blame here. Because Jeff Saturday is awful and did little to solidfy what was a victory last week. So, expect more ugly offense from Indy, and maybe it’s for the best. So, we can move onto teams that have a shot at a Super Bowl and so the Colts can quietly go find a qualified coach and end this awful experiment.

Week in and week out, the New York Football Giants continue to surprise. Because despite their record and their mistakes, this team refuses to quit, and they continue to hang with teams they have no business hanging with. And this week, they are taking on a team that took a right cross from a very bad Colts team before striking back and that… means we should be in for quite the game. One that could go poorly for the Vikings if they Giants decide to give it their all, and this is one that could be a shootout since the Giants can score. As to who wins, that’s hard to say, but I think the edge goes to the Vikings. But don’t be surprised if the Giants surprise them, as they have done with the rest of the league, all season long.

​This is a game of note, simply because there is a lot riding on wins here. For both of these teams aren’t quite in the playoffs yet and have had to battle hard to even be in the mix. That means we should be in for quite the intense battle, one that will see Cincy and the Pats score a plenty since neither team really has an elite defense and they’re of course, desperate to get into the tournament and know a win here will bring them one step closer to that. But in the end, I’d wager that Cincinnati will be the winner here. Simply because they have better offensive coaching and better weapons and while it might be close, the Bengals should walk out of this one with the victory they so desperately need to try and defend their standing as the AFC Champion.

​This game is without a doubt, the biggest that Week 16 has to offer. Because this one, is a battle for the NFC East, one that oddly… could go the underdog’s way… maybe. For Jalen Hurts is out with a shoulder injury and he’s been playing amazing football this year and his absence could help the Cowboys lock up a huge win. However, at the same time, Gardner Minshew is starting in his stead and he… is no slouch. Because time and time again, he’s taken the field and impressed mightily with his nothing to lose approach to football and if he gets hot, well things might not go so well for Dallas. But even then, there’s still a chance that the Cowboys can win, which means the winner of this game is up in the air, but the good news is… the fans should be treated to one epic Divisional showdown, one that will help shape the playoff picture in the NFC.

This is it football fans, the home stretch. That leg of the season where hope springs eternal or sorrow reigns supreme. For ups and downs are what the playoff push is all about and we are going to be treated to some epic games and storylines this weekend. The kind that will leave us talking for days on end depending upon the outcome of certain critical games. Either way, this is an exciting time to be a football fan and with that in mind, let’s dive right in and preview Week 15 in the NFL and the majesty it is going to send our way. 
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Hopefully the NFL does a better job of spotting concussions this weekend.
This might not be a topic that anyone wants to pour over before another weekend of football, but look, it needs to be addressed. Because we’ve seen some scary moments when it comes to concussions and head injuries this season, one of which took place this past week when the league failed to spot a concussion to DaVante Parker. Which means all of these moments were/are avoidable if people just did a better job come game time and hopefully this weekend those critical employees do. So, we don’t have to bear witness to the horror of watching a pro football player struggle to stand straight because someone phoned it in.
 
Do the Bucs stand a chance at saving their season this weekend?
It is definitely safe to say that Tampa Bay is spiraling the drain right now. Because they look awful in every phase of the game, Tom Brady is not himself on the field and to make matters worse… they’re about to face off against the resurgent and fiery Cincinnati Bengals. Leaving all of us to wonder if this game is going to be another nail in the coffin for the Bucs and oddly enough… in the long term, this pending loss may bring them little harm. Just because the NFC South is a rotten division with no clear hero at the moment. So, they could lose this game, and still make the playoffs because of that strength of division. So, for the Bucs, it isn’t over until it is over, but don’t expect them to achieve anything special this weekend, because Cincy is a damn good team.
 
Expect Kansas City to lock up a playoff spot this weekend.
Thus far, only one team is in the tournament, since Philadelphia punched their ticket with a win last week, leaving all of us to wonder who will join them in the postseason as well, and one team that should easily pull off such a feat, is the Kansas City Chiefs. For all they have to do to clinch a berth in the postseason, is beat the Houston Texans. Which should be a fairly easy task to accomplish. Because the Texans are a mess and while they gave Dallas a scare, they’re not good enough to beat a top-tier team such as KC. So, expect the Chiefs to handily lock up a playoff spot this weekend and enjoy another AFC West Division Title in the process.

​Truly, late season divisional battles are just… some of the best football you see all year. Because both teams want the Division Title and the benefits that come with that, and this game is one that will feature a hard-fought battle for the NFC West. Since the Niners and the Seahawks are number one and number two in the NFC West respectively, and Seattle is chomping at the bit to gain traction in the division and a win here would help with that and of course… San Fran wants nothing more than to continue their wild hot streak, one where they have been utterly dominating their opponents with amazing play from their third starting quarterback this year. Of course, they too want the division, and they will likely win this game. Because the Niners really are a talented team and know how to win against difficult opponents.

​This is another divisional battle of note, simply because… there’s no guarantee the team with the better record will win here. Because over the past few weeks, the Bills have been an utter mess. Their vaunted pass rush has all but disappeared and the secondary is supremely porous. Not to mention, the offense is all over the place and that’s led to some ugly games for Buffalo, and that undoubtedly has Miami chomping at the bit to take the field for this game. Because they could feasibly win this one in epic fashion, since they have the drive and have surprised sloppy teams all season long. So don’t be shocked if this battle for the AFC East goes Miami’s way, because the Buffalo Bills are genuinely struggling right now.

​Normally, the Washington Commanders aren’t a team worth spotlighting. Because their poor play has made them an afterthought for some time now. But they’ve been hot at the right time, thanks in large part to quality play from Taylor Heinicke and they are taking on a Giants team that went from red hot to ice cold in a matter of weeks. But they’re still a squad of scrappers, regardless of their struggles to close out games. Which means, this should be a hard-fought Sunday night matchup, one that will either be a wild shootout or a defensive battle royale, and honestly… I am hard pressed to declare who will win this game. Because these teams are so evenly matched, but it will certainly be a lot of fun to watch them both fight hard for a shot at the playoffs.

It really is quite amazing to know, that only a handful of weeks remain in the NFL regular season. For it feels like yesterday that the season was getting underway, and hope was present for every team’s fanbase in the league. But alas, this is it, the home stretch is upon us and that means we are in for a weekend of critical games. Some that will inform some teams what their future plans need to look like in the off season, while others will come to discover what they are made of as the mad dash toward the playoffs, continues. With that in mind, let’s dive right in and explore what the less fortunate teams and the juggernauts are hoping for as Week 14 in the NFL gets underway.
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Will Cleveland get a better performance out of their ridiculous investment in Watson this weekend?
Make no mistake about it, Deshaun Watson’s return to the NFL was a joke. Because not only did he remind us of what a poor decision it was to trade for him since fans made it clear what they think of the NFL’s decision to let him play with so many accusations hanging over his head, but his on the field performance stunk too. The result of being away from football for years on end. So, will he improve this weekend? Eh, it’s 50/50. Because two years removed, combined with external pressures mentally, whilst facing a resurgent Bengals squad is a recipe for disaster and if that’s the case, oh well. For the Browns need to reap what they have sown, and Watson needs to be humbled.
 
Can Pittsburgh pull off an epic upset against the Ravens?
On paper, the Ravens appear to be ready to conquer the Steelers on Sunday. But in reality, that might not be the case. Because their star QB is injured and might not play, and the lowly Broncos informed everyone that this team is beatable if you offer up the right kind of defensive structure against them. One that involves some heavy blitzing and press coverage and that is something that Pittsburgh can do with their dynamic defense. The only question is if they can keep their offense in gear since it can be suspect at times. But if they can put up some points and if that defense can hold, then a massive upset might be in the cards.
 
Can the Bucs beat the Niners?
One would think that being down to your third string quarterback, would be a death sentence for your season. But the Niners continue to defy the odds regarding that. Because Brock ‘Mr. Irrelevant’ Purdy was dynamic under center on Sunday, and he is facing a Tampa Bay defense that actually… he might be able to beat. For they are beat up and suffering through injuries and Brock has nothing to lose by going out and balling. So don’t be shocked if come Sunday, the Niners manhandle Tom Brady and his boys. Because their defense is solid, and they keep rolling on offense, despite their injury woes at the most important position in the game. 

​Normally, I would expect the Bills to run roughshod over the Jets on their way to an AFC East title. But uh… the Bills are struggling right now. Because their defense is so bad at the moment that it would struggle to stop a tortoise on its way to the end zone and Josh Allen isn’t exactly lighting up the scoreboard either. Not to mention, the Jets beat the Bills last time they met this season, giving them confidence and a chip on their shoulder. So, this game is of note because it might be an upset game, one that will rattle the power structure of the AFC East if the Jets pull this one off, and they truly might. Because Buffalo just isn’t quite as good as advertised.

​This is another game that might surprise fans expecting an easy win for the Philadelphia Eagles. Because the Giants have proven themselves to be a scrappy team this year. One that doesn’t go quietly into the night and will quite literally hang with their opponent until the clock hits zero, and that’s something that the Eagles haven’t faced often enough this season. So, there’s a chance that this one could be a knockdown, drag it out brawl. One that might end in an upset, or a close score, and that’s never a bad thing. Since the fans will benefit greatly from a good ol’ fashioned NFC East Battle Royale, one that in the end, I think, the Eagles will win. Just because they really are eager to lock up the NFC East and they seem to have learned their lesson regarding underestimating their opponent.

​This is another matchup that appears to be lopsided in nature since the Dolphins are 8-4. But that 8-4 record isn’t quite as solid as one might hope. Since the Miami defense has struggled often this season to close out games and it really has fallen upon Tua to make magic happen on the field. And they are in fact, facing a strong Los Angeles squad, on offense at least. Since their defense has had its struggles as well. That means, this is a game that could be an outright shoot out. One that seemingly will either come down to a single play or a single mistake. But in my opinion, it is going to come down to which defense steps up and makes those critical stops. Because that’s what’s held these teams back from true glory all season long and in my opinion, it will be Miami that pulls that off. Since they do have a slight edge talent wise on the defensive side of the ball.

One thing that we can all agree upon, is that this has been… a supremely weird football season. One where parity has brought forth some shocking moments, and where a lot of drama has taken place. Simply because we’ve seen legends go full diva this year and we’ve watched some teams outright implode and embarrass themselves along the way and well, it would seem the drama is only going to continue this weekend. Amid the playoff push no less, thanks to the return of one controversial player and well… let’s take a moment and discuss all that drama and spotlight some important games as well before Week 13 in the NFL gets underway.
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The Cleveland Browns most embarrassing mistake to date (which is saying a lot) takes the field on Sunday.
We haven’t spoken much about the whole Deshaun Watson debacle in this weekly article and with good reason. Because Watson has been suspended and working to get his way back to the field. But Sunday will mark his return to the league after facing some hideous allegations and settling them behind the scenes and well, this is of note because… this is going to bring forth a lot of ugliness this Sunday and rightfully so. Since many if not all of Watson’s accusers will be in the stands to remind him that there are a lot of unanswered questions surround him and of course… this is going to serve as a fine reminder that the league continues to handle such matters in a terrible fashion. Because once again, a man that has abuse allegations surrounding him, has been rewarded. This time with a new team, and a new contract and this is just embarrassing and hopefully some lessons come out of this. In that, the league has to stop putting profits over people and properly punish those that break the league’s rules and laws, and above all… stop rewarding this bad behavior with mountains of money and silence.
 
Will a loss at Baltimore finally bring about change in Denver?
Let’s be honest, the Broncos aren’t walking out of M&T Bank Stadium with a win. They stink on offense; their defense is overworked. So, barring a miracle, they’ll go 3-9 on Sunday and continue to wound Broncos Country in the process. Which then begs the question. Will this be the last straw at Dove Valley and finally prompt GM George Paton and CEO Greg Penner to make a coaching change and end the Nathaniel Hackett experiment? Honestly… who knows? Because at this point, we’ve heard little from Paton or Penner on the matter outside of votes of confidence in London. Which is troubling, because we simply don’t know what the new ownership group stands for, and their actions determine that, and thus far, there’s been no action. So most likely, it will be more wait and see from Denver, as the football world tries to figure out if the new ownership group is committed to excellence, or the same mediocrity that the Bowlen Trust stood for.
 
With Aaron Rodgers banged up, will the Bears finally beat the Packers?
Aaron Rodgers has stated before that he owns the Chicago Bears and well, there’s some truth to that. Because he is 23-5 against the team and always finds a way to make their life hell when they play. But he’s pretty beat up this weekend, and suffering from a bevy of rough injuries, which does lead one to wonder if by chance the Bears might sneak out a big win here against a battered and bruised #12 and the answer is… not likely. Because this is hands down, a better team than the Bears, and when a rivalry game is on the line, you know the defense and the offense are going to rally behind their beat up QB to help him to the win. So, expect this one to be ugly for the Bears as the Packers renew their ownership of the Chicago Bears.

This is a game of note, simply because the Pats have a chance at winning this one. Which is something I don’t think anyone would have believed possible earlier in the season. But the year is long, and things change as it continues along… as evidenced by where Buffalo is at. Because despite having a record that teams would give draft picks up for, there’s a lot wrong with the Bills. Their defense is porous and unable to generate a pass rush at the moment, and the offense is shaky at best and that’s led to some close games and ugly losses. So, if the Pats can exploit the Bills’ weaknesses, they’ll walk out of this game with a big win. One that will keep them alive in the playoff race.

​Truly one of the biggest surprises of the season, has been the Washington Commanders. Because this team was forgotten and left for dead not that long ago. But a quarterback change and some downright effort has made them a potential playoff contender and they are facing… a similar team. For no one thought much of the Giants this year either and they too, have pleasantly surprised with a wonderful turnaround season. Which means that this is going to be one hell of a game. Since both squads are closely matched and play hard. As to which team wins this one, I think it will be the Giants. Because they are on a mission right now and do boast a slightly better roster than the Commanders.

​One would think that the Kansas City Chiefs have the edge in this game. Because they’ve only lost twice this year, they have a roaring offense and the Bengals have had to fight for every win this season after a rough start. But this is in fact, a rematch of last year’s AFC Championship Game, which the Bengals won in overtime, and they are coming into this game hungry and motivated and ready to win. That means, we are going to be in for an intense matchup. One that could be another shootout between these two teams as two top-tier quarterbacks sling for the win and honestly… it’s up in the air in my mind as to who is the clear winner in this one. Because both of these teams are hungry for a victory. So really, in the end, it’s the fans that win here. Since they get to be treated to a quality game.

This is it football fans, we are now in the home stretch of the season, and the playoff push is in full swing. Which means that the best possible games await us, as do some epic moments since this is when heroes rise and titans fall, and change comes to some teams. Plus, this weekend’s slate of games will see more embattled coaches fighting for their lives, alongside players that need to show their team something. The bottom line is that drama is about this weekend, so let’s dive right in and preview all the storylines and big games that await us in Week 12 in the NFL.
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Will the release of Melvin Gordon finally light a fire under the Broncos?
Make no mistake about it, the Denver Broncos made the right call, in waiving Melvin Gordon. Because he must have dipped his gloves in butter and grease before going out to play since he dropped the ball more times than a dachshund does when their favorite tennis ball is bigger than their head. But what matters more here, is will this finally get this team in gear? Because sometimes a roster shakeup is needed to shake complacency and honestly… I don’t know if the team will get the message. For they are lost and leaderless right now and have zero sense of urgency, so all this might do, is cut down on turnovers. 
 
Is this the end of the line for Zach Wilson?
It is a huge deal that Zach Wilson, a team captain, and the supposed savior of the franchise is being benched for poor play and a garbage attitude. Because a lot of draft capital went into his arrival in New York and the team designed a roster to help him win. Which leaves one to wonder if this is it… if the Jets are already ready to move on from a Franchise Quarterback again… and the answer is… probably not right away. Because really, Mike White needs to go out and show the team that he should be the starter and his up and down performance as a starter in recent years, doesn’t mean that he has unfettered faith here. So, unless he comes out and wows the world over the next few weeks, Wilson will be back, and hopefully humbled and if not… then New York will indeed move on.
 
Will Monday Night finally end the Jeff Saturday experiment?
Sure, Jeff Saturday has had some exciting moments. After all, he won his first game as interim head coach, he hung with the Eagles. But let’s not split hairs here, he’s not the second coming of Bill Parcells. The Raiders head coach is a doofus, and the Eagles were not losing to a sub-par team, again. Which means this is still an experiment in the making, one that the Steelers could bring to an end, depending on which team shows up. Because Mike Tomlin is a great coach and if he has his young QB prepared for the softer stuff that Coach Saturday has brought to the table, perhaps this little experiment can end, and Indy can get down to looking for an experienced head coach to lead this team into a very murky future. 

​Yes, I know. Why on earth would I feature the Lions in a game of the week. Well, the answer is simple… because something is very wrong with Buffalo. Because they have started to struggle on offense here and there and have seen their vaunted passing slow down and be disrupted and their defense… is suddenly trash. Which is shocking since they went out and spent a ton of cash to bring Von Miller to Orchard Park. But the pass rush isn’t there, the secondary is loose and that… gives Detroit a path to victory. So, this game is of note, because it might be one hell of a Turkey Day upset, wherein Buffalo’s awful defense costs them a critical game against a woefully lesser opponent.

​Normally, the Cowboys tend to host a pretty stinky team on Thanksgiving, one that is easily handled on the national stage and ironically, the Giants are a team that would normally meet that criterion. But this year, the New York Football Giants are simply sublime and hang with the best of them, and that means… we are going to be in for one hell of a game. One full of big plays and some epic touchdowns, since Daniel Jones and Dak Prescott have brought life to some stunning scoring plays. So, expect a lot of fun in this particular game, and don’t be shocked if it is close. Because these teams are evenly matched and the winner of this one, might come down to who takes full advantage of a single mistake.

​Here’s another lopsided game on paper that shouldn’t be of note, but it most certainly is. Simply because, we don’t know if Philly is as elite as we initially thought. Because they got slapped by the Commanders at home, and they had to fight to beat the lowly Colts, and that means… Green Bay could rock their world on Sunday Night. So really, the outcome of this game all comes down to Philly. So, if they don’t take the Packers for granted and bring the top-tier energy that has served them well this season, they could walk away from this one 10-1. But don’t be shocked if they crumble at the hands of the hungry Green Bay Packers. Because Philly has now shown that it struggles to beat desperate teams, and that could cost them dearly here.

Hello again football fans and welcome to the playoff push! For this is it, it is full steam ahead for every single team that is trying to make the postseason and that means we should be in for more epic games as those teams do their best to lock up a postseason spot and/or just finish the season with a measure of respect. And with that in mind, let’s dive right in and examine all the big games and juicy storylines that Week 11 in the NFL has to offer.
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Can the Green Bay Packers surprise us again?
I thought the Packers were done for the season. But I was wrong. Because their big win over Dallas kept them alive and, in the mix and that in turn begs a big question… can they do it again? For they are taking on a solid Titans team that can be hard to beat and honestly… it is possible. For if the D can slow Derrick Henry down like how Denver did, and if the run game stays the focus for the Green Bay offense, then they’ve got a shot at beating the Titans and at keeping their playoff chances alive. 
 
Will the venue change for the Browns/Bills game have an impact on the Bills?
The Bills definitely enjoy a measure of home field advantage thanks to Bills Mafia and the like, and they rely on that energy to win games often and well… the venue change that happened earlier today because of a pending blizzard in New York has all of us wondering, as to whether or not the play of the Bills will change drastically come game time. For the fans won’t all be there, and the team is in need of a shot of energy after that bad loss to Minnesota and well, not being home could have an impact. Because of the fact that this team is utterly out of sorts and without something comfortable and safe, Buffalo could go down hard against a hungry Browns squad.
 
Who will win the Bad Coaching Bowl?
Sunday is going to give rise to one uncomfortable game, Las Vegas at Denver. A pair of teams that uh… that stink, no two ways about it, and they’re a mess because their coaching is a mess and that leads one to wonder… who will win this forthcoming bad coaching bowl? Because someone has to win this game… or at least… we hope it doesn’t end in a tie. But who will it be? Honestly, likely Denver. Only because they have the better defense here and if the Broncos can do just enough on offense, they’ll be able to split the series and further embarrass an already embarrassing head coach in Josh McDaniels.

​Normally a powerhouse team against a meh team is one to ignore, but this one… is quite special. For the Eagles are coming off of a loss to an inferior team and the Colts are hoping to put together another win under a coach that everyone has questions about. Which means, we should see a Colts team eager to prove their worth, and a Philly team eager to regain their mojo after that loss. That will in turn lead to an intense game, one that Philly will likely win. For they are the better team, period, and if they understand the lessons of last week’s game, they’ll do just fine in this one. 

​Speaking of big games with playoff implications, here’s one for all of us to enjoy. Since the Cowboys are preparing to take on one of the NFC’s finest teams and that means, we should be in for a shootout. Because neither squad’s defense is dominant. But their offenses sure are, and that will lead to a ton of points and plays to make the highlight reels. The only question is… who will win this game and honestly, much like last week between Minnesota and Buffalo, it will come down to which defense steps up, and in this instance, I think the Vikings have the edge there since they seem to be quite eager to show the league, they are capable of closing out games.

​This is another big game to keep an eye upon, because it could catapult the Chargers to a whole new level with a win, or keep the skill set for the Chiefs quite sharp. But what it means for the fans… is that we might be treated to another high scoring game. Since the Chiefs have never been known for their defense and Los Angeles’ D is all over the place. But in the end, while it will be fun to see Herbert and Mahomes light up the scoreboard for four quarters, we all know that KC will walk away with the win here. Just because they really are the better team on offense and know how to win in high stakes AFC West matchups.

Well, another week of football in the books and it turns out that Week 10 in the NFL, was a doozy. Because once more, we saw parity come into play, courtesy of teams that defied the odds and wowed everyone with a big win. Plus, we saw weaknesses exposed for some and saw revenge games sputter for those wanting to prove others wrong, and well… all of that made for a great weekend of football. One that we are ready to reflect upon, so without further ado, let’s recap Week 10 and all the wonder it sent our way.
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The Philadelphia Eagles are now 8-1.
One particular lesson about the game we’ve talked about often in this column, is that you can never take your opponent for granted. For when you do, bad things happen, and games are lost, and surprises and shockwaves are sent through a clubhouse. But we keep talking about it… because teams still do it and that includes the once undefeated Philadelphia Eagles. For they really thought they had the game against the Commanders in the bag and walked onto that field with all kinds of swagger. But they didn’t account for how hungry Washington was and for their arrogance, their perfect season has come to an end and hopefully… they finally learn this lesson and get back on track, so their wonderful season can continue along.
 
The Buffalo Bills defense is not as good as advertised.
It wasn’t that long ago that it really seemed as though the Bills had the best D in the league. For they made mincemeat out of quarterbacks and stopped drives in their tracks. But ten weeks in, and teams are figuring out that the team plays a lot of soft coverage and that their corners struggle in certain situations, and that the pass rush can be avoided and neutralized and now… it is costing them games. Because they let thirty-three points through and helped the game move to overtime. Granted, Josh Allen sealed the loss with that errant throw. But had the D done its job, it wouldn’t have come down to overtime and they wouldn’t be suddenly losing games by twenty or more points. So, here’s to hoping the D gets their mess together, or it is going to be another long year in Orchard Park.
 
Mike McCarthy let his old team get the better of him.
Make no mistake about it, revenge games and games where someone significant faces their former team are tough games. The kind that while often touted as being epic by the league, end in heartbreaking fashion more often than not. After all, Peyton Manning lost in his return to Indy, Russell Wilson lost in his return to Seattle and Mike McCarthy also caught an L in his return to Green Bay. Because it’s just damn hard to face that old squad, thanks to the emotions it brings up, and McCarthy is no exception to this rule. Because despite keeping it close, his old team, the one he went to a Super Bowl, got the better of him when the time came and well… that loss serves as a fine reminder, that you can never go home again and when you have to in the NFL, expect it to be one ugly affair.
 
The Seattle Seahawks might be a second-tier team after all.
For some time now we have all been in awe of what Seattle has accomplished with a journeyman quarterback at the helm in Geno Smith. Because they’ve made some big plays and enjoyed some big wins… but once again, teams are starting to figure out tendencies and weaknesses and exploit them and that’s exactly what Tampa Bay did to them in Germany. For they figured out how to disrupt and confuse Geno Smith and how to wear that defense down and well, that means the ‘Hawks might not be who we thought they were, and it will be interesting to see if and how they rebound from this ugly and embarrassing loss.
 
Once again… the Raiders need to fire Josh McDaniels.
Yes. I understand he’s safe per reports today. Yes, Rome wasn’t built in a day, and so on. But the fact of the matter is, Josh McDaniels is NOT a good football coach, and he needs to be dismissed, period. Why might you ask? Oh, I don’t know… maybe because… HE LOST TO FREAKIN’ HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL COACH! I mean come on, while Jeff Saturday’s big win is a feel-good story, he had no prior NFL coaching experience, and he outcoached a guy that has been touted as an offensive mastermind. That’s beyond embarrassing and that’s beyond troubling, and Mark Davis is making the wrong call in keeping him. Because with McDaniels, it just gets worse from here and it is not right to put the loyal fans of this storied franchise through that kind of torture. So, please, Mark. Wake up and smell the coffee and toss this guy out.

It is definitely safe to say, that football fans everywhere are wondering how Week 10’s games are going to play out. Simply because this season has been off the wall wild, and full of weeks where the quality of game is sub-par, or full of surprises… or full of the parity we know and love. Which means, the true nature of this weekend’s games will be a mystery, but that’s no reason to not be excited. Because there are still juicy storylines brewing and big games on the horizon as the playoff push begins and with that in mind, let’s dive right in and preview what should be one mysterious weekend of NFL football.
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Will the Colts start winning with Jeff Saturday at the helm?
The hope when a front office fires a head coach, is that a spark will be ignited for the team. As though everyone understands better results are needed as is a better direction, and the new coach should supply all that. But when it comes to the Colts, will that be the case? For while Jeff Saturday was a great football player… he’s never coached at this level and his coordinators have little to no experience calling plays. So, will this bold change help the team win? Maybe? After all, they are playing the Raiders, who stink this year and are coached by a coach who tends to outcoach himself. But even then, no guarantees. Simply because this is a weird coaching move and how this plays out is anyone’s guess.
 
Can the Broncos make it two in a row?
It’s been a couple of weeks since the wild and weird Denver Broncos took the field, courtesy of a bye week. But the bye week is now behind them, and Tennessee awaits and well, everyone in the football world is wondering if by chance they can win two games in a row for a change and well, this is another maybe. Because it really depends on which offense shows up on Sunday. For if the playcalling present in London reappears, where the team works to use the run game to set up a true west coast passing game, then this team has a shot at a win. But if Head Coach Nathaniel Hackett opts to get fancy with the calls, disaster will certainly strike. So, keep an eye on this one, because it will be interesting to see which Broncos squad shows up come Sunday.
 
Can Tom Brady get the Bucs going again?
Make no mistake about it, the Bucs needed that win against the Rams, badly. Because their season has been teetering for weeks on end now. But they showed up in crunch time and got the dub and well, can the offense do it again this week? I’m not so sure. Because the Seahawks are deceptively good, and they continue to shock teams through and through. And they are fully aware of Tampa Bay’s weaknesses. So don’t be surprised if Seattle just stuns the Bucs in Germany and sends #12 home with a suitcase of frustration, because Tampa Bay is still a mess right now and Seattle is going to do their best to exploit their flaws.

This is a game of note, simply because it is a must-win for the Bills. For they suffered an ugly loss against the Jets last week, one that might keep their star QB out of the lineup, and they need a win to keep their standing in the AFC high and well… it won’t be an easy road to victory. For the Vikings are playing lights out football right now and look great in all phases of the game. Which means the Bills have to come to work focused and eager for a victory and well… I’d say their chances are fifty/fifty here. Because the defense isn’t quite as stout as it was at the start of the season and the Vikings will exploit that. So, if the D can offer up a big day, the Bills should win, but if not… then Buffalo’s season is going to take quite the interesting turn. 

Normally a game featuring two teams with records this lopsided wouldn’t be worth anyone’s time. But the fact of the matter is, Miami’s defense is not good. They keep teams in games and thus far, they haven’t done much to pressure quarterbacks, despite trading for a solid pass rusher in Bradley Chubb. Which means, this could in fact… be a close game and a high scoring one that that. All because that Dolphin defense can do little to stop the quarterbacks they face. So, keep an eye on this one since it might be quite the fun affair. One full of touchdowns and tension and where Miami might lose if that loose defense can’t get their act together.

​Let’s be honest, this weekend is full of lopsided games. Where teams with the better records should handily walk away with the win, and yes, this is one of those games as well. Because the Commanders are struggling in every phase of the game and keep losing games because they can’t buckle down. Whereas the Eagles are the toast of the league and cannot be stopped and well, since we’re being honest… this game is of note because we all just want to see Philly go 9-0. Because it’s cool when a team goes on a hot streak and how cool would be it to see the Eagles keep the streak alive? Granted, Washington could surprise them. They could. But they won’t. So, just kick back and enjoy this one, because it will be a lot of fun to see Philly just dominate and move to 9-0.