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Popeyes UK-Review

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As a group with some native North Americans, we thought we would try to pair some of our home cooking, with a slate of Week 13 NFL games. 

Well, not really home-cooking, we decided to go with Popeyes Chicken, as the franchise has now made a ceremonious arrival on UK shores.

Surely this new kid in town would provide a yummy alternative to the endless BBQ’s and deep fried wings we usually host for ourselves? 

Nope, it was a total shitshow, so let’s break down it went in our Popeyes UK-Review.

The Menu

The menu itself is a redacted version of one you might find in North America, as many of these Popeyes come from ‘dark kitchens’, where not even the chefs are privy to the whole menu. 

We decided to use Just Eat, as Deliveroo continually ‘forgot’ our login details, so we opted for the service which was the least pain in the ass. Big mistake. 

At first we wanted to order up the Value Bundle of 4 sandwiches with wings, but upon realising that none of this came with fries, spending almost £40 on chicken sandwiches was sort of ludicrous. 

We opted for a classic Popeye’s Chicken Sandwich, the festive chicken burger with habanero and sage stuffing. Never had it before, and it sounded like the right way to kick off a Thanksgiving weekend of games. 

We added some BBQ wings, and some of the Popeye’s famous gravy to chug. Clickety-tickety boom, and hit submit. We purposely ordered right on the hour, so that we could track the progress like real lazy pants fans. Order confirmed, looks like it will arrive in 25-40 minutes. 

Wait

As we started to get hangry, we popped for the arrival of this famous chicken, even cleaning up a bit, like the chicken sandwich would judge us for the state of this NFL party. 

A quick check of the app showed that it had been pushed back 40 to 50 minutes, which is why it’s always good to screen shot these for proof when they eventually mess up, and blame you. 

As the time started to countdown to arrival, a curious thing happened, the time kept pushing back again. We had now been waiting 40 minutes, and it was still going to be another 40. Hmmm, on a Sunday night? 

One of the guys got impetuous, popped out of his seat while watching his team, and went to collect a pizza out of frustration. The rest of us laughed, ‘it’ll get here before you get backdate!’ Spoiller alert, it didn’t so we fired up the deep fryer and started tossing everything Costco in for stomach’s sake. 

With the pizza and shrimp torpedo’s mowed down, it was time to check in with Just Eat, which we now referred to as ‘Just Don’t Eat’. Still another 30 minutes, and we had just hit the 1 hour mark.

Just as we were about to hit the cancel order for over £40 worth of food, we got a notice that our driver was en route, and would be less than 15 minutes. Uh huh, sure. As we followed his moped on the little map, the 15 minutes started to wane, morphing into 20, 25, then staying at 15 again. 

By this point the hanger was gone, and replaced by sheer giddy goofiness that on a quiet Sunday night, a bag of chicken would take less time to arrive than it would to make a roast chicken dinner for 4. 

One hundred and 10 minutes later, there was a buzz at the door, the food was already here. Thanks to the wait, beer and empty stomachs, we had a little buzz of our own going on. 

The driver was unapologetic, and responded angrily to the query ‘wonder how cold this is going to be?’
It was time to taste it. 

The Food

Just like Lambeau Field in December, the food was so cold, it could be kicked through some uprights. 

The original chicken sandwich had turned to a cold slop from the sauce, and a few bites were taken with a grimace, while the rest was tossed into the back yard for the foxes to salvage. Even they had given up waiting by this point. 

The Festive Burger was like a family debate over politics, just ugly, and not something that you planned on getting involved in. Clumps of stuffing piled on the floor, like a childhood pillow. It was chalky on the tongue, and immediately scrape worthy. 

With the Festive Burger also being tossed to the fence, it was time to try the wings! Cold wings are usually good, right? Usually. These were slathered in a tart BBQ sauce that had an ‘is this off?’ vibe about it. They were some tiny, and bony, that getting meat off of them was easier just to ‘suck’.

As we decided to dip one of the wings in the special biscuit gravy, we checked the bags…and uh oh! They forgot the sauce. Should we call back? How long would that take? 

The Verdict 

It’s hard to tell who to blame in this debacle, but it would seem that Just Eat would have to shoulder the bulk of it for the sheer ineptitude of their process. 

Popeyes was able to take the order, but Just Don’t Eat struggled with the processing of the order, as well as the delivery. 

Let’s just say the whole thing left a bad taste in all our mouthes, and made us embarrassed to be North Americans, knowing somehow our British friends would layer the blame on us, and our crappy franchises. 

This truly one crappy meal, and we won’t be doing that again. 0/5 stars and stripes. 

As of publication, we have heard nothing back from Popeyes or Just Eat. How sad. 

Divisional Halfway-NFC

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Welcome to November, as we begin the chilly part of the NFL season, and take a look at the Divisional Halfway-NFC, in a division that is really heating up.

With half of the season already done, teams should have a pretty good idea of what it takes to make that giant playoffs leap forward. Let’s break down each division and separate the wheat from the losers.

NFC EAST

What the Washington? Where did they come from? Dan Synder must be licking his wounds, or trading naked pictures of cheerleaders on the dark web, to see what the WFT has done in 2024. Jayden Daniels has made an immediate impact, even tossing a game winning Hail Mary to beat the Bears. With zero expectations going into the season, they sure like the hot hand in the East.

Philly might have something to say about that, after a slow start has suddenly invigorated their D, and put some punch back into Jalen’s legs. Saquon has been a beast for the Eagles, and they could look to ride him into a playoff berth.

Dallas is getting messy, and not in a good way. Jerry Jones has poor communication going on from the top down, as it’s not clear what them Boys are going to do. Dak is struggling with no O line, raging running backs, and only CeeDee in double coverage. Maybe they get dangerous after week 10, or just continue to implode.

New York got exposed on Hard Knocks, and it seems to have followed them like the stink of moth balls. Losing Saquon was a face slap, but maybe not as hard as how Daniel Jones has under performed this season. Is it the coaching, or does DJ lack the gusto to win? The Giants sure have.

NFC NORTH

The Motor City is the big cat in this division, as the Lions have continued to spank opponents in big fashion. Jared Goff has been solid, the running game has double punching power, and the receivers are top notch. Losing Hutchinson is a big blow for the D, but they seem to have recovered and look like the top picks in the NFC.

The Vikings are doing that totally Minnesota thing again. Starting great, and them flummoxing themselves to February with inconsistent play. After being exposed after running up 5 wins, they seem to be naked to their own advancement. Will they be able to rally, or will Darnold get the blame for a team a few weapons short.

Green Bay has had a surprising season of wins, when it looked like Love trouble after week 1. It all comes down to the coaching here, as Matt Lafleur has been clutch in reading teams, and calming his approach. Josh Jacobs has been a welcome addition as the Pack have made a bit of a run, but they always seem to shoot themselves in the foot when it comes to crush time.

Whoa those Bears! Caleb has been steady, but not as solid as the D has been at keeping Chicago in games. While there was a lot of expectations, Bears fans should be happy that they are at the beginning of a franchise whilst others falter. Eberflus should be relieved of play-calling, and stick to overall coaching, but the Bears might be able to sneak through with a cheeky wild card if they can make it through a tough last schedule.

NFC SOUTH

The dirty south runs through Atlanta, as Kirk Cousins has found his groove, and the Falcons have a running game that can do some damage. A slow start has led to the birds starting to flock together, although their D has shown they can take points hits. They are owning their division, which goes a long way to the playoffs.

Baker Mayfield tries so hard, but that hasn’t helped Tampa as they took a slew of injuries to thwart their fun run of W’s. It’s hard to see a way for the Bucs to continue, as Mayfield doesn’t have enough targets, or O line to stop the bleed. He might find a way to a wild card, but it’s doubtful.

Derek Carr and the Saints marched to 2 quick wins of 50 points, with Alvin Kamara trampling D’s, then the suck happened. Carr looks to return, but the Saints and Dennis Allen have shown that something isn’t right in New Orleans. Too inconsistent, too many injures, and not enough weapons. What will they trade away?

Oh Carolina, even Shaggy couldn’t write a song about your woes. Bring in Bryce, bring in Andy, what does it matter? The Panthers traded away the rest of their goods, so they’re trying to dress for the Oscars, with items from a charity shop. Only good thing about the Panthers is betting against them.

NFC WEST

The West use to be best, but it hasn’t looked that way to start the season, as this division is as wide open as the plains that separate them. The 49ers SHOULD be leading the way here, but big injuries, and close loses have fated them to a grind it out time. San Fran is a good team, they just haven’t shown it yet, and they better soon, or they could get usurped.

Matt Stafford and the Rams continue to find ways to win, because they were still recent Super Bowl champs. Coaching has been the big key in ’24, and Sean McVay has winning in his blood. Despite some early injuries, the Rams are starting to make a string of wins happen, and that’s dangerous for the NFC. Don’t be surprised if the Rams wild card it to the danger zone in 2025.

Seattle has been riding old man Geno hard over the past few seasons, with not a lot of support. The Seahawks have games where they look brilliant, and then play the Bills and looks totally outclassed. When it comes down to the tough games, the team crumbles under the pressure, and won’t see a lot of joy going forward.

Kyler Murray keeps trying, but it just isn’t enough for a Cardinals squad that can only play half a game. One minute he’s looking awesome, scrambling and hitting targets, and the other he looks lost in shuffle.
Arizona has never felt like they could put a full winning team together to win every game. Coming up short is their way, and they’ll do it again.

Who knows what the season will hold, but it looks like the Lions, Falcons, Redskins, and Rams will all be fighting it out in January.

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Divisional Halfway-AFC

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We’re already through 8 regular weeks of NFL seasonal play, and there are some challengers and losers in the bunch of 32. Let’s take a look at the Divisional Halfway AFC standings when it comes to the teams, as we break down each division for some insight.

AFC East

At the start of the season, the power-packed East looked sure to send at least 2 teams through to the playoffs, off the back of Aaron Rodgers, or head of Tua. With November now here, it’s possible that the Buffalo Bills will have this sucker wrapped up by Thanksgiving.

The Jets are a mess, and with only 3 wins going into November, it’s highly unlikely they go anywhere unless the run the table.

Tua and the Dolphins are also lost in the fog, as another series of concussions should be paramount in his future thinking. As a result coach Mike McDaniel also looks lost, and even Tyreek Hill is apologising to NFL Fantasy owners. Is this the end of the Miami run before a rebuild?

As for the Patriots, NFL fans around the world are enjoying this after too many TB12 seasons. Drake Make might be the future, if he doesn’t get killed by a weak O-line first.

AFC North

The Steelers? For real? This isn’t a April Fool’s joke?
Nope, coach Tomlin shows that coaching is what makes teams, as he rides his D and ageing QB’s to the top tier of this division. While many pundits claim it won’t last long, they still find ways to win, when others are taking L’s.

The dark horse Ravens were thought to be running away with this division, given the MVP calibre play of Jackson and Henry, but there are still some cracks. Those cracks would be in their secondary, which has been allowing points in, and games lost. Still gotta beat the Chiefs at the end of the day.

Cincinnati is in trouble, real trouble. No matter what Burrow does, that D is pouring in points every week. Even with such a stellar squad, the Bengals are struggling to get wins over even the weakest teams. Perhaps it’s time for a coaching change?

Oh Cleveland you filthy beast, what’s going on? Jameis has probably played his last football, and even Johnny Manziel is looking good right now. It looks like another rebuild decade for the Brownies, as fans must be at the end of their tether.

AFC South

The dirty south looks like it’s running through Houston again, but there are big sized Texas problems. After a Week 9 TNF loss to the Jets, CJ Stroud even admitted that there is a problem in Houston. Too many injuries to rely on Mixon’s legs, and CJ seems to have taken a step back.

Stepping back even further has been Colts QB Anthony Richardson, who has made a shocking regression from last season, and his quotes about being ‘tired’, are sure to inflame fans, and anyone over 30. Indy might be 4-4 now, but how long can they rely on Old Joe Flacco?

Jacksonville must be thanking their lucky stars that Tennessee is in their division, because otherwise they would be in dead last place. When owner Khan declared that ‘winning is the only option’, he must have had some crumbs in his moustache, because winning looks far away. Coach Doug better bring his rosary beads every week, because he’s got some praying to do.

As for the Titans, they well and truly suck. The Nashville fire sale has begun, with Hopkins gone, and Will Levis looking CFL bound next year. There’s always changing their name back to the Oilers?

AFC West

Kansas City is 7-0, and it doesn’t look likely that anyone will beat them. Mahomes is playing well enough, but it’s the coaching, the D and Taylor. No, you’re crying.

Denver didn’t look like they were off to a good start in 2024, but coach Payton has gotten the Broncos and Bo Nix humming. It helps to have a shut-down safety like Surtain, and who knows how far this team could go?

LA Chargers are also playing smart, and slow football. With a 4-3 record heading into week 9, the Bolts are looking to keep pace with KC, and slot themselves into the postseason off their solid D.

Tom Brady might part own the Raiders now, but everyone else has been owning them too. Like many things in Vegas, it might be time to implode the old, and rebuild the new, or did they do that already? Do it again.

So congrats to the Buffalo Bills, Kansas City Chiefs, and Baltimore Ravens, one of you will be representing the AFC come February.

 

London Called

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Another fantastic set of UK NFL games has gone off splendidly, as we take a look back at our triad of matches in a London Called segment.

First off, how about a hand to the NFLUK for once again pulling off another incredible international series at Tottenham and Wembley for our October 2024 matches. It was another fantastic three weeks f games, fans, and excitement.

Let’s take a look back at the games that London was treated to, and all the action in the league associated with them!

Week 5

NY Jets 17 Minnesota Vikings 23

October 6th was out first London game, and what a treat it was, as Aaron Rodgers came to town with his squad of undeniable talent to take on an undefeated Minnesota Vikings squad.

Tottenham Stadium rocked out with over 61,000 fans to see Garrett Wilson catch for over 100 yards in a losing effort to the stout Vikings D. Andrew Van Ginkel electrified the crowd when he ran back a pick-6 in the first quarter in a game that had north London shaking.

In the end the Jets took another ‘L’, but not as big as coach Robert Salah, who was fired after the trip, and may have enjoyed an extra few days on hitting a Wetherspoons and soaking up his shame over 99 pence Boddington’s.

A great first game to kick off the series, and whet the appetite of London fans.

Week 6

Jacksonville Jaguars 16 Chicago Bears 35

It was a Bears beatdown in north London, as Caleb Williams rocked into Spurs stadium with a demonstrative hammering of the Jaguars in front of their ‘home’ nation.

Once again the rafters were filled to the hilt, as over 61,000 fans filled Tottenham stadium in a swarm of blue and orange, as it was definitely a Chicago home game.

Making this game even sweeter was the fact it was one of the few London games to hit the ‘over’, with the Jags porous D allowing Caleb and company to put this game out of reach before it began.

The weather might have been chilly, but the warmth of the NFC north faithful made sure that the last game at Tottenham for 2024 was one that Bears fans would never forget.

Week 7

New England Patriots 16 Jacksonville Jaguars 32

It was a true double-up for the final London game, as the Jags were able to secure a ‘W’ with a much needed victory over the Patriots on a cloudy day at Wembley.

Much was made of the UK being given two 1-5 teams for the last of the series, but this one might have been one of the most exciting one for many reasons.

Perhaps it was the radiant smile of Drake Maye who brought the sun out in the second half, although he was no match for a fired up Trevor Lawrence who was looking to silence the salary-haters who have been chirping on his socials.

Tank Bigsby was the Jags workhorse on the ground, pounding into the Pats, and awakening a crowd of almost 90,000 NFL faithful in northwest London.

Both teams flew out immediately after the game, and as far as we know, no one has lost their job yet.

London 2025

It’s hard to believe that the 2024 season is already halfway done, as we round our way to Halloween and Christmas, knowing that the NFL is well and truly our real special holiday.

So who will be coming to London in 2025, and how many games will we get?
Wish we could answer those questions for you, you’ll have to wait until March 2025 to actually know who that might be.

At the end of the day, the fact that we were able to watch 6 awesome teams play a game in our own backyard is beyond special.

Thanks again to the NFL, the teams, the players, the fans and everyone who made these NFL in London games well and truly magical.

Of course, we will still have loads more NFL events in London to promote.

London BearDown and More!

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As Week 6 of the NFL season approaches, the Chicago Bears are taking centre stage with their upcoming October 13th international game in London. This marquee matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium is more than just another game—it’s part of a broader global push for the NFL and the city of Chicago. Alongside this international excitement, major storylines continue to unfold across the league, from quarterback controversies to injuries. 

So let’s dive into the most important news heading into Week 6, starting with the Bears’ big London arrival.

Beardown Tottenham

The Chicago Bears have landed in London already, bringing a wave of excitement ahead of their highly anticipated matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars on October 13. The Bears are no strangers to international play, but this trip marks a special opportunity for both the team and the city of Chicago to make a statement on the global stage.

Mayor Brandon Johnson is also in town, traveling with World Business Chicago, as part of a broader mission to position Chicago as a global hub for business and innovation. Johnson’s visit includes high-level meetings and key announcements, and a few fun trips to the pub (perhaps?).

While Chicago’s business community aims to strengthen ties with London, the Bears have their own agenda—bringing the energy of Soldier Field across the Atlantic. They’ve organised a series of fan events at the Greenwood Sports Pub, where London-based Bears fans can meet former players, grab autographs, and enjoy a slice of Chicago football culture. 

As mentioned in previous articles, the Greenwood isn’t the best sports bar for North American authenticity, as the McDonald’s in Victoria station was serving up better food than any of the events we ran there. 

Bring lots of money, as it is one of the priciest sports pubs in the city, even though it isn’t close to anything, 

These events, which run from October 9-13, include appearances from beloved Bears alumni like Charles “Peanut” Tillman and Anthony “Spice” Adams, alongside giveaways, trivia, and more.

For those attending the game, or simply fans looking to immerse themselves in the Chicago football atmosphere, the Bears’ week-long takeover in London culminates with a viewing party at the Greenwood on October 13. Even if fans can’t make it to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, they’ll be able to watch the game in true Bears fashion at the pub, decked out in team colors with face painters on-site to get everyone game-ready. FYI the pub closes at 11 on a Sunday, and will happily kick out fans looking to watch the 9pm games. 

The Bears have had a mixed history in London, winning against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Wembley in 2011 but falling to the Oakland Raiders in 2019. As they prepare to face the Jaguars in what promises to be a thrilling contest, the excitement in London is palpable. With events designed to engage local fans and promote Chicago on an international stage, this trip is a major moment for both the team and the city. All eyes will be on the Bears as they aim to capture a win and leave their mark on the international stage.

Russell Wilson’s Potential Return in Pittsburgh

In other news, the Pittsburgh Steelers face a looming decision regarding their quarterback situation. After back-to-back losses, and with Justin Fields’ struggles against the Cowboys, the door may be open for Russell Wilson’s return to the starting lineup. Head coach Mike Tomlin will address the situation during his weekly press conference, but speculation is growing that Wilson could get the nod as early as Week 6 against the Raiders.

Wilson, who has been recovering from an injury, is reportedly getting healthier and could offer the offensive spark the Steelers desperately need. Fields has shown flashes of brilliance, but the offence has stalled in recent weeks, and with prime-time games against the New York Jets and Giants on the horizon, the timing could be perfect for a change. Wilson’s experience and ability to read defences might be just what the Steelers need to get back on track.

Joe Flacco Continues to Impress in Indy

Meanwhile, in Indianapolis, veteran quarterback Joe Flacco is turning heads with his standout performances. The 39-year-old QB threw for 354 yards and three touchdowns in the Colts’ Week 5 game, stepping in seamlessly for the injured Anthony Richardson. Despite his age, Flacco has defied expectations, making five consecutive starts with over 300 yards and multiple TDs.

The Colts are in the thick of the playoff race, and Flacco’s resurgence is providing them with stability at the quarterback position. If he continues this level of play, Indianapolis could make a serious postseason push, thanks in no small part to the veteran’s leadership and sharp passing game.

Deshaun Rubs Himself Out

Deshaun Watson’s rough start to the 2024 season hit a new low in Week 5, as the Cleveland Browns were dominated 34-13 by the Washington Commanders. Watson’s performance was underwhelming once again, and he was outclassed by rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. Watson has yet to throw for more than 200 yards in a game this season, and he’s been sacked at least six times in three separate contests.

For a quarterback commanding a $230 million contract, these numbers are troubling. Watson’s inability to elevate the Browns’ offense is one of the most pressing issues for the team heading into Week 6. If he doesn’t turn things around soon, the Browns could be looking at another disappointing season.

Patriots Eye No. 1 Draft Pick Amid Freefall

It’s been a rough season for the New England Patriots, who have now dropped four straight games following their surprise Week 1 win. The losses have piled up, and the team’s poor performance has them on track for a top pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Head coach Jared Mayo will need to work some magic to salvage the season, but at this point, it’s looking like a rebuild might be the Patriots’ best option moving forward.

The Patriots’ offensive struggles have been particularly alarming, as they’ve failed to establish any consistent rhythm, and every QB is getting constant pressure up front. If their slide continues, don’t be surprised if the team starts making moves to position themselves for a high draft pick next year.

Kansas City Chiefs’ Rashee Rice Out for Season

The Kansas City Chiefs will be without one of their rising stars, as wide receiver Rashee Rice is set to miss the rest of the season due to a knee injury. Rice suffered the injury in Week 4 when quarterback Patrick Mahomes accidentally collided with him while trying to recover an interception. The Chiefs have confirmed that Rice will undergo surgery to repair his LCL, and there’s optimism that his ACL remains undamaged.

Rice’s absence will be a blow to the Chiefs’ and Mahomes, as he was becoming an integral part of Mahomes’ passing attack. However, with Mahomes at the helm, the Chiefs are well-positioned to weather the storm, though they’ll need other receivers to step up as the season progresses. Looking at you Davante! 

Streaming Services See NFL Boost

Finally, a new study from Ampere Analysis highlights the incredible power the NFL has over streaming services. During the NFL season, platforms like YouTube TV and Fubo see a massive 77% increase in sign-ups, driven by the league’s unparalleled popularity. The Super Bowl remains the biggest subscription driver, with over 410,000 sign-ups recorded in a single day during last year’s championship.

As more games move to streaming exclusives, the relationship between the NFL and these services will continue to grow. It’s clear that the NFL remains a major force not just in sports but in the broader entertainment landscape, as fans flock to streaming platforms to catch the action every week.

With the Chicago Bears making headlines in London and plenty of drama across the league, Week 6 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting of the 2024 NFL season. Watch this space for more Bears and Jags news ahead of Sunday.