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Wildcard Picks

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And just like that the NFL 2023-24 regular season is over, as we hit you with our Wildcard Picks podcast.
Who would have thunk that these were the teams that would be mounting the charge to glory when we started this season?

Here we are, as Ryan and Wade bust out their top tips for the Wildcard Picks podcast. If you want to listen to the whole cast in all its glory, just click on the link below.

Saturday Games

-2 Browns (11-6) vs Texans (10-7)  +44.5

The Browns were a pleasant surprise entrant into the playoffs, thanks to the balls-out heroics of one Joe Flacco. Cleveland’s D has also been stout this year, with Myles Garrett looking to add some heads to his tombstone collection for Halloween. Too bad the Browns are one of the worst teams for turnovers, which could be their undoing in this game.
CJ Stroud is back, and despite losing Tank Dell and O lineman throughout the season, Stroud has been displaying rookie of the year stats and decision making. Houston is limping into the playoffs off a close win to Indy, so how much gas will they have in the tank against a Browns team that rested most of its starters last week?
Ryan thinks that the Texans will cause some problems for the Browns, but it will be Cleveland who gets the W on Saturday.
Wade is also on the Browns, although he thinks that the Texans will mount a fourth quarter charge to salvage an early beating.
Ryan-Browns 24 Texans 21
Wade-Browns 27 Texans 20

Dolphins (11-6) vs -4.5 Chiefs (11-6)  +43.5

It’s a repeat of the Frankfurt game, as a the score might be as low given the weather forecast to hit Missouri on Saturday night. Miami is battered and fried, after an up and down season that has seen plenty of talent fall by the sore-side. Can they mount that final push after getting smacked around by the Bills in the cold last week?
The Chiefs this year are not like any of the teams from past season because they are beatable in many ways. Most importantly, they seem to beat themselves more often that usual, which presents some opportunities for the Dolphins. An ageing Kelce, dropitis, and Patrick’s lack of sling-success could all be a factor in KC messing up their own fortunes.
Ryan is taking the Chiefs at home, but likes the Fins to keep it close. The snow and cold will be a factor here, so look at the under and the running backs to go over on carries.
Wade is also stumping on the Chiefs to win in a close one. Miami will make some adjustments, and they might even win this one if they can connect with Tyreek for big gains.
Ryan-Chiefs 27 Dolphins 25
Wade-Chiefs 23 Dolphins 20

Sunday Games

As for the Sunday games, you can hear all of the predictions on the Wildcard Picks podcast, but we can give you a little hint as to the way the guys are leaning.

Steelers (10-7) vs -10 Bills (11-6)  +35.5

Ryan loves his Bills at home, but is nervous that Tomlin is going to have some tricks he’s going to pull in the snow to make this a close game. Low scores for a game that is expecting a foot of snow during it.
Wade is also taking the Bills at home here, and agrees that the under is the best bet to go with. This will be a running game, so look for Josh Allen to go over on rushing yards.
Ryan-Bills 17 Steelers 9
Wade-Bills 20 Steelers 9
As for the rest of the games, the guys both agree on the following:
  • The Cowboys will beat the Packers at home. Wade thinks it will be a blowout, Ryan is calling a close game.
  • LA Rams pull an upset over the Lions. Detroit will get caught out by Matt Stafford and a red hot Rams squad.
  • Bucs beat the Eagles at home. Mike Evans is about to have a hell of a night.

That’s it for our Wildcard Picks and podcast. Make sure that you follow our socials, and look out for some exciting news coming down the pipeline.

 

Week 14 Picks

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The boys are saddled with nasty colds, so it must be that time of year again for our Week 14 Picks podcast.

Only two teams on bye this week, as the playoff implications start to look far more interesting. Teams we thought in the AFC that would contend, are faltering, and the NFC is looking like it’s going to be a slugfest against the Niners for any hope of the Lombardi trophy.

If you want to take out your sniffles, and suck the phlegm for your system, have a listen this podcast with a little toddy for your ears.

Week 14 Picks

A nice surprise for the AFC North, as the Steelers took a choke out from the Patriots on TNF to add another layer to that divisional contest.
What other kind of nifty surprises might we find in this weeks games?
Let’s have a little look shall we, as the boys both offer their predictions for a select slate of games.

Jaguars (8-4) vs -3 Browns (7-5)  +30.5

Jacksonville took a bite out of themselves in Week 13 with a performance that really knocked their chances of that number one seed potential. Although they are saying that Lawrence might have only suffered a high ankle sprain, what about the rest of the guys that got hurt. That has to hurt.
Joe Flacco! That’s right, old Joe has saddled up once again to fire some ints for Cleveland as they look to mend the suck that is currently affecting them.
With horrible weather, and a home crowd in their favour, can the much vaunted Browns D make them Jags pay here?
Ryan is going full Flacco, which is still a thing, as he thinks the Browns will out hustle the cats at home.
Wade also agrees that the Browns are the ones to take here, as the Jags will suffer to get anything going against that front line, and cold front of nasty weather.
Ryan-Browns 20 Jaguars 13
Wade-Browns 21 Jaguars 9

-3.5 Lions (9-3) vs Bears (4-8)  +43

It’s another rematch of the AFC North, as this time the Bears host in a contest that happened only a few weeks ago, with different circumstances.
The Lions were able to come back against a tough Chicago squad in the remaining two minutes of the game to get the fortunate win.
Will the Lions be so fortunate this time?
It’s not going to be a winning season in Chicago, but that was expected, as was the Fields conundrum. What he does in the next few weeks will determine where he plays next season.
If JF can light it up win a W against Detroit, he might just be the topic of a starter again in 2024.
Wade of course if taking his Bears for the upset win, with a wet, sloppy home slashing against Detroit.
Ryan agrees, and thinks that the Bears will be able to get vengeance in this week for the upset.
Ryan-Bears 24 Lions 21
Wade-Bears 18 Lions 16

Other games

Here are some of the other games that the guys have personally selected as ones that you might want to look at for some of you fun sunday parlays.
You can hear about them all in out Week 14 Picks podcast, but since you’re here, have a gander.

Ryan

-Panthers COVER against the Saints (-5)
-Ravens (-7)  PUSH with the Rams
-Jets UPSET vs the Texans (-3.5)
-Raiders UPSET the Vikings (-3)
-Bills UPSET the Chiefs (-1)

Wade

-Seahawks COVER against the 49ers (-10.5)
-Raiders COVER closely with the Vikings (-3)
-Eagles COVER in a close one with Dallas (-3.5)
-Dolphins (-13) BLOW-OUT the Titans
That’s it for the guys Week 14 Picks, make sure that you listen to the whole podcast so that you can soak it all up like the colds that are going around this season.
Stay safe, and enjoy Week 14!

The History of NFL International Games

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The National Football League (NFL), known for its monumental presence in American sports, has steadily expanded its reach beyond U.S. borders through a series of international games. These matchups serve as a bridge connecting the fervor of American football to audiences across the globe. The NFL’s foray into international play has been an evolutionary journey, transforming from humble beginnings to becoming an integral part of the league’s vision for a more globalized future.

So let’s take a look at the History of the NFL International Games, as well as a peek into what we might expect in the future.

CFL vs NFL

The NFL’s first attempt at international games dates back to 1950 when the New York Giants faced the Ottawa Rough Riders in a preseason exhibition game. However, it wasn’t until the 1980s that the league began seriously contemplating global expansion. The historic 1986 American Bowl in London, where the Chicago Bears clashed with the Dallas Cowboys, marked the inauguration of the NFL’s official international series. This pivotal moment laid the groundwork for the league’s future ventures beyond American soil.

Fast forward to the 21st century, and the NFL’s international ambitions became more pronounced. The introduction of the NFL International Series in 2007 marked a watershed moment. The series kicked off with the New York Giants battling the Miami Dolphins at London’s iconic Wembley Stadium, captivating audiences and sparking a renewed interest in American football on an international scale.

Over the years, the NFL has diversified its international portfolio, expanding beyond London to include other global destinations. Wembley Stadium and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, and even Toronto and Tokyo have hosted NFL games, each event contributing to the league’s growing global fan base.

These international games are more than just exhibitions; they serve as catalysts for the sport’s global growth. They provide a platform for fans worldwide to experience the intensity and excitement of live NFL action. Moreover, they offer the league an opportunity to engage with new markets, fostering a deeper connection with fans abroad and showcasing American football’s appeal beyond traditional borders.

The success of these international games has been evident in the increasing demand for NFL content worldwide. Television viewership, merchandise sales, and online engagement metrics have surged, reflecting the burgeoning interest in the sport outside the United States.

Looking ahead, the future of NFL international games appears promising and brimming with potential. The league remains committed to expanding its global footprint, exploring new markets, and deepening its roots in existing ones. The NFL’s long-term vision includes establishing a more regular presence in international markets, potentially culminating in the establishment of a permanent franchise or franchises abroad.

The possibility of a London-based NFL team has been a recurring topic of discussion and speculation. While logistical challenges persist, including travel considerations and scheduling complexities, the concept of a London franchise remains an intriguing prospect that could redefine the league’s international landscape.

Additionally, the NFL continues to explore opportunities in other untapped markets, considering potential games in countries like Germany and China. These endeavors align with the league’s strategic initiatives aimed at global expansion and inclusivity, further cementing American football’s status as a truly international sport.

In conclusion, the history of NFL international games represents a compelling narrative of growth, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of a global audience. From modest beginnings to the grand stages of iconic stadiums worldwide, the NFL’s journey beyond American borders continues to captivate audiences and pave the way for an exciting future where the sport transcends geographical boundaries, uniting fans from diverse cultures under the banner of gridiron glory.

Who knows where we might expect to see the next NFL International Game?

Week 13 Picks

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That chill in the air is the cold front of the NFL Playoffs approaching, as we warm you up with our Week 13 Picks Podcast.

With December hitting us with a friendly reminder that the end of year is nearly upon us, and NFL teams will need to get their records in order if they want a chance of making the big show.

Ryan and Wade look at all of the big games ahead, in this Week 13 Picks Podcast that we are giving you for absolutely FREE! That’s right NFL fans, the cost of living might be biting down, but we like to give back with the little things.

To claim your FREE Week 13 Picks podcast, all you have to do is click the little link below.

Week 13 Picks

Among some of the games that the boys have selected as choice games for Sunday Funday are the following.

Broncos (6-5) vs -3.5 Texans (6-5) +47.5

Who would have thunk that this game would be the marquee match-up for Week 13 at the start of the season?

The Broncos are ripping off wins, with six straight and a new focus that is keeping them winning against the best teams in the league. How long can this go on?

Houston too has defied the odds thanks to the stud-muffin play of CJ Stroud. Not only is Stroud making nobody receivers look like MVP candidates, he also has that clutch ability to win games in the waning moments of fourth quarters, something most needs would die to have.

Ryan is taking the Texans at home off the back of CJ Stroud being too much for Russ to cook-off against. He thinks that Houston at home is going to break Sean Payton’s streak, and keep this AFC South division competitive with another Texans win.
Wade also thinks that the Texans will win, but not by much, and not enough to cover. He likes the Broncos to frustrate Houston with big running plays, and a chess match of D to counter Stroud’s legs.
Ryan-Texans 27 Broncos 21
Wade-Texans 24 Broncos 23

-2.5 49ers (8-3) vs Eagles (10-1)  +47.5

Batten down the hatches and put your sofa in reclining position, it’s time for the best game of the weekend in this epic Sunday night NFC showdown.
San Fran has been a dominant force in the division, stomping their way towards a playoff spot. The D has been bolstered, McCaffery keeps motoring and Brock Purdy is sufficient enough to hit his receivers in the middle of the field. Will it be enough though?
Philly are fresh off their Super Bowl rematch in which they choked out and frustrated a Patrick Mahomes, then a stunning comeback against the Bills last week. Anyone else in the AFC want a piece of the Eagles? Didn’t think so.
Ryan believes that this is the week that Philly gets their tush-pushed by a superior team, that team being the 49ers. He thinks Christian and that D will be too much for Philly in a stunning upset.
Wade sees the Eagles at home, their momentum, and a San Francisco squad that isn’t there yet. They still get points scored on them in the mid-field, and those 3 losses came because of their inability to rally when they need to get back in it. Wade is taking the Eagles at home.
Ryan-49ers 33 Eagles 27
Wade-Eagles 28 49ers 26

Other Picks

The boys also have some other picks and upsets that they want you to tuck into your pocket, and maybe slap onto a betting app if you’re feeling so ticklish.

Ryan

-Patriots COVER against the Chargers
-Cardinals COVER against the Steelers
-Titans UPSET the Colts
-Washinton to COVER versus the Dolphins
-Packers COVER against the Chiefs

Wade

-Jets UPSET the Falcons
-Cardinals COVER against the Steelers
-Titans UPSET the Colts
-Panthers UPSET the Bucs
-Browns UPSET the Rams
That’s it for our Week 13 Picks, make sure that you listen to the whole podcast, and share it with your friends and enemies. Especially them.

Week 9 Picks

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The NFL is off to Frankfurt this week, as Wade and Ryan offer up their Week 9 Picks podcast.

The clocks are back on the 5 hour difference to the east coast, and we have a pretty good slate of games lined up for Week 9, so who’s going to win?

Make sure that you check our our full podcast here so that you can listen to the guys rattle off all of the games.

Here is the link for you to find it!

Dolphins (6-2) vs -2.5 Chiefs (6-2)  +50.5

We’re off to Frankfurt early Sunday, for the first game in Germany for 2023.
It’s always tough for teams to go into a stadium that they have never played before, especially in another country, where they speak a whole new language.
Miami got the jump on the Chiefs, arriving earlier in the week to get accommodated to playing in Germany. For the past few years this has provided a bit of an advantage to teams, as it allows them to get sorted, get on schedule, and adjust to weather and all the other bits.
The Chiefs are coming off a stink-loss to the Broncos, as well as a nasty flu that ravaged the locker room and saw them deliver their most limp game in ages. It was also the first time the Broncos beat the Chiefs since the Peyton Manning era.
Ryan likes the Chiefs in this one, as Miami has struggled to beat teams with a winning record. Andy Reid doesn’t do 2 losses in a row, so he likes the Chiefs and Mahomes ready to rip it against a struggling Dolphins D.
Wade likes the Dolphins for arriving early, and thinks that it will be a big advantage to getting them on the board. He also doesn’t think that they will hit the over, as both teams will be tepid on this new turf.
Ryan-Chiefs 27 Dolphins 23
Wade-Dolphins 25 Chiefs 20

Seattle (5-2) vs -6 Ravens (6-2)  +43

Another great game of teams with wining records is the early game between the Ravens and Seahawks.
Seattle has been surprising people this year with their solid D, strong running game, and adequate play of Geno Smith.
The Seahawks will see themselves tested against a very feisty Baltimore D.
Baltimore on the other hand seems to have finally found their momentum, as they have started to sling together some strong wins. Early injury problems seem to have been sorted, as well as Lamar Jackson ripping those who haven’t been delivering.
Ryan likes the Ravens at home, but thinks that they will have their hands full with that D, as well as trying to contain Geno and the running game.
Wade thinks that this game will be the one where we see just how fragile the Seahawks really are.
The Ravens smell blood in the AFC North water, and they have begun to circle for legs.
Ryan-Ravens 28 Seahawks 26
Wade-Ravens 28 Seahawks 20

Other Games

If you’re looking for some other top tips on games, the guys each have some that they think are going to be winner-winner, chicken dinners on Sunday.

Ryan

  • Falcons comfortably beat the Vikings
  • Packers beat the Rams at home
  • Bucs upset the Texans

Wade

  • Washington upsets the Patriots
  • Bears cover against the Saints
  • Cowboys upset the Eagles

That’s it for our Week 9 Picks, make sure that you listen to the whole podcast, share it; like it; lick it; stamped it, no rub outs.

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