NFL in London

National Football League in London

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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.

Week 1 Picks

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That unexplainable feeling of excitement rushing through your veins right now is football, because the NFL is back baby! Let’s start this season right with our Week 1 Picks for the 2024 season.

To hear all of the picks, and to listen to all the reasoning from Ryan and Wade, just click on this link here for all the glory of the full episode.

Of course, if you’re far too lazy to listen to 45 minutes of punditry, we can also give you some of the boys top tips for the week, so that you can just roll into your betting app, and drop some jingles.
It is week 1, which means predictions don’t usually mean squat, but if you make them with attitude, they seem to have a bit more mustard.

Week 1 Picks

So let’s take a look at some of the top tips for Sunday and Monday, after the Chiefs and Eagles have already secured their W’s for the weekend.

Ryan

It’s all about the Bills again for Ryan this year, as his Canadian-ness propels him to root for a border city team. Will the Bills be able to make the playoffs this year after another season of disappointment?
Ryan’s first big upset is the Jacksonville Jags over the Dolphins in the battle of Florida. With the Fins losing loads of D this year, he likes Trevor and the Jags to cause a little upset in the sun on Sunday. Despite Miami being favoured by 3, he likes Jacksonville to win by 2.
Chugging on with his upset train, Ryan has the Panthers getting their first W of the year with a win over division rivals New Orleans. Despite a sucky season in 2023, Ryan likes Bryce Young and the team to move the chains against a limp Saints squad.
His last upset of the 1pm games sees the feisty Colts getting a victory at home over the visiting Texans. Overlooking the heroics of CJ Stroud last year, Ryan likes the horses to apply the pressure and era out a win.

Wade

Wade also has a series of upsets on tap for his Week 1 Picks, and some of them might surprise you.
Wade has the G-Men winning at home over the Vikings, as he likes Daniel Jones and the home squad over a Sam Darnold led team which has way to many question marks on it. It’ll be tight, but he thinks the Giants will prevail.
Much to Ryan’s dismay, Wade is also taking the Cardinals for an upset against the Bills at home. Buffalo has a notoriously slow start, so he likes Arizona to start the season with a fierce and fast start against the Bills.
Another upset that he is eyeing up is the 4pm contest between the Raiders and Chargers in LA. With Justin Herbert suffering a foot injury at the start of the season, things suddenly look questionable for the Chargers with such a nagging problem. Antonio Pierce likes to start with lots of energy, something that Las Vegas will be opening a can of.

DraftKings

Do you like to play Weekly Fantasy Football? Then why not join our DraftKings League, where you can play for free and paid every week.
All you have to do is click below, and join one of our many weekly contests. You don’t need to pay to play, unless of course you want to win some cash!

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NFL Viewing Parties

Does your bar or pub show the NFL in the UK? Are you looking to promote your venue to attract more NFL fans? Just reach out to us, and we can help put some bums in your seats, so that you can be an exclusive NFL in London approved venue.

We can help you promote the events, add NFL trivia or comedy, as well as help you create some authentic North American menu options.

Just reach out, and we can help!

NFC Predictions

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With the season less than a week away, the boys have made their NFC Predictions for 2024, and there are quite a few surprises here!

It’s time for another podcast, as Ryan and Wade crank up the season ahead of a very exciting new season. Who will go to the big game? Who is taking their division? Which teams will be sucking donuts this season? The guys go through it all!

To listen to the whole podcast make sure that you click here for some goodness.

Here are a few thoughts from the podcast for all you Lazy Lester’s who don’t like holding out for all the goods.

NFC Predictions

NFC East

This division could either be a stellar battle, or a sad layout of bad coaching and even worse play. The Eagles were a shell of their former selves, the Cowboys are still awaiting contracts to be finalised, the WFT will be ‘re-building’, and the Giants? Who knows?
Ryan has the Eagles taking the division with 11 wins, taking the lead over them ‘Boyz who he is predicting to have a spectacular fall. (as in from grace). Washington will limp out with 8 wins, and he sees the Giants struggling to get 5 wins.
Wade also has the Eagles taking top spot, but thinks that they can get to 12 wins with some coaching changes. Let’s see what the loss of Kelce means to Hurts’ mobility. He also has the Cowboys in second, but sees them winning 10 games at least. Both Wade and Ryan see the Redskins going 8-9, with injury concerns if they run the heck out of their rookie QB. Wade has the Giants only claiming 3 wins this season, in a very frustrating affair.

NFC North

All hail the north! The icy tundra of football was won by the Lions last year, something they haven’t done in decades. Can they take the top spot over the Packers again this season, with the Bears loading up on talent? Oh yeah, and Minnesota.
Ryan is going ‘all-in’ on the Pack to take the north, even being so bold as to think they will go 12-5 on the back of Jordan Love. He sees the Lions sinking to second place, with the Bears getting 9 wins to take third place. He also thinks the Vikings will be lucky to get their 6 wins.
Wade might be a Bears fan, but he still thinks that Detroit is top lock to take this division. His Bears will come in at second place with 10 wins, and the Packers just behind with 9. Love struggled at the start of the season, and there is no reason to think that he is just going to ball out this year, just ’cause. The Vikings take home last spot, just like Ryan.

NFC South

Eesh, the South has been a nasty place for the past few years, with everyone struggle to line up some W’s. Cousins is in ATL now, and with all that talent in place, it’s hard to not see why he won’t come out on top. Baker led the Bucs to a big playoff win last season, and all the weight is on him to shine now that he’s being paid. The Saints hate their QB, as do the Panthers, which is never a good start.
Ryan is big on ATL to take it here, and sees them hitting 11 wins to boot. The rest of the division is due a losing record according to him, with Tampa, New Orleans and Carolina going down in that order.
Wade too likes ATL to win this won with 10 wins, although he sees the Bucs close behind with 9. New also has New Orleans and the Panthers following, but with the cats able to muster 5 wins this year off of some running.

NFC West

The West is best for the past few years, as the 49ers have taken top spot since the Rams won the Super Bowl. Stafford and the boys had a good season last year, so maybe McVay has some things cooking for ’24? Arizona and Seattle are beyond rebuilding, so things need to happen for them this year.
Ryan has the Niners taking top spot, but likes the Seahawks to sneak in just behind with a 10 win season.  He thinks the Rams gave away too much D, and will struggle to contain some of the other high scoring teams. He has the Cards last with an 8 win season.
Wade also has the Niners getting 11 W’s, with the Rams just behind them with 10. He has a tie in 3rd and 4th place, with the Seahawks and Cardinals both getting 7 wins a piece.
That’s it for our NFC Predictions! How many do you think the guys got right?
Spoiler Alert! No one EVER thinks anyone picks the right standings, so go ahead and blast away.
Enjoy the 2024 NFL season everyone!

History of the Bears

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With the Chicago Bears due to play in London again in 2024, we thought it apt to take a look at the history of this iconic team, famed for their incredible D, and stellar 1985 Super Bowl team.
So how much do you know about the Chicago Bears? Let’s take a look at the History of the Chicago Bears.

Nestled amidst the vibrant cityscape of Chicago, the Chicago Bears stand tall as one of the most iconic franchises in the National Football League (NFL). Renowned for their rich legacy, the Bears have etched their name in the annals of football history, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. Embark on a journey through time as we unravel the captivating tale of the Chicago Bears, tracing their origins, navigating through challenges, and witnessing their remarkable international growth.

Formation and Early Years

The inception of the Chicago Bears dates back to 1919 when legendary player, coach, and owner George Halas, along with Dutch Sternaman, established the Decatur Staleys. Originally based in Decatur, Illinois, the team swiftly transitioned to Chicago the following year, where they were rebranded as the Chicago Bears. Thus, began a saga of triumphs and tribulations that would define the franchise for decades to come.

Challenges and Triumphs

The journey of the Chicago Bears has been rife with challenges, yet marked by resilience and determination. Throughout the years, the team has weathered various storms, including roster shake-ups, financial constraints, and intense competition. However, amidst adversity, the Bears have consistently risen to the occasion, showcasing grit and fortitude on the gridiron. From their early dominance in the 1930s, which saw them clinch multiple NFL championships, to the modern era marked by iconic players like Walter Payton, Dick Butkus, and Mike Ditka, the Bears have carved a legacy of excellence.

Helping the Pack

During the tumultuous years of the Great Depression, the NFL faced unprecedented challenges that threatened its very existence. In a remarkable display of solidarity and sportsmanship, the Chicago Bears played a pivotal role in preserving the league during these dire times. In 1923, when the Green Bay Packers faced financial turmoil, it was the generosity of the Bears’ owner, George Halas, that provided a lifeline to their struggling rivals. Halas, recognizing the importance of maintaining a competitive and sustainable league, selflessly bailed out the Packers, ensuring their continued participation in the NFL. This act of camaraderie not only exemplified the spirit of sportsmanship but also underscored the Bears’ commitment to upholding the integrity and longevity of professional football. In doing so, the Bears helped foster a sense of unity among teams and laid the foundation for the league’s enduring success.

International Growth

While the Chicago Bears’ roots may lie in the heart of the Windy City, their influence transcends geographical boundaries, extending far beyond American shores. With the advent of globalization and the burgeoning popularity of American football worldwide, the Bears have embraced opportunities for international expansion. Through initiatives such as the NFL International Series and strategic partnerships with global brands, the Bears have cultivated a diverse and expansive fan base spanning continents. From hosting international games to engaging with fans through digital platforms, the Bears have emerged as a global ambassador for the sport, fostering a sense of camaraderie and unity among fans worldwide.

Legacy and Impact

As custodians of a storied legacy, the Chicago Bears hold a special place in the hearts of football enthusiasts around the globe. Beyond their on-field prowess, the Bears have become synonymous with tradition, heritage, and community engagement. From iconic landmarks like Soldier Field to revered traditions such as the “Monsters of the Midway,” the Bears embody the essence of football culture, weaving a tapestry of memories that resonate with fans across generations. Moreover, through their philanthropic endeavors and commitment to social responsibility, the Bears continue to make a positive impact on society, empowering communities and fostering inclusivity.

With the Bears due to play once again in London in 2024, UK fans will get the chance to see a new and improved squad, powered by Caleb and and healthy slew of new talent

In the ever-evolving landscape of professional sports, the Chicago Bears stand as a testament to the enduring spirit of athleticism, perseverance, and passion. From humble beginnings to global prominence, the Bears’ journey epitomizes the essence of the American dream, inspiring millions worldwide. As they continue to forge ahead into uncharted territories, the Chicago Bears remain steadfast in their pursuit of excellence, leaving an indelible legacy for generations to come.

April Drama

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As the NFL offseason rolls on, the drama continues to unfold, and fans across the globe are eagerly seeking insight into the latest news and developments. Look no further than our exclusive podcast April Drama, where hosts Ryan and Wade deliver an in-depth analysis of all the April Drama in the league. From high-profile trades to game-changing signings, they leave no stone unturned in their discussion.

In the latest episode of our NFL in London podcast, Ryan and Wade bring their unique perspectives to the table as they delve into the most compelling storylines of the month. With their finger on the pulse of the NFL, they provide listeners with valuable insights and thoughtful commentary that you won’t find anywhere else.

One of the highlights of the episode is the duo’s discussion is the Stefon Diggs move to the Texans  that  rocked the league in April with its big money implications. Ryan and Wade break down the week, examining how they will impact the teams involved and the landscape of the NFL as a whole. From blockbuster deals to under-the-radar swaps, they offer expert analysis that will satisfy even the most discerning football aficionados.

But the drama doesn’t stop there. Ryan and Wade also dissect the latest signings that have sent shockwaves through the NFL community. Whether it’s a marquee free agent landing with a new team or a rising star re-signing with his current squad, they provide comprehensive coverage of all the major moves, complete with their thoughts on what it means for the players and their respective teams.

Looking ahead, Ryan and Wade offer their predictions for the future of the NFL, discussing which teams are poised for success and which ones may face challenges in the coming season. Their insightful commentary provides listeners with valuable insights that will inform their own opinions and predictions as they eagerly await the start of the next NFL campaign.

If you want to listen to the whole podcast, just click here to get your fill of it.

April Drama

Stefon Diggs

The drama of Diggs as a Bill is no more, as Stefon has shuffled off to Houston to the glee of Buffalo fans. It wasn’t long into the signing that the Texans then offered to buy Diggs out, showing that me might not be everyone’s cup of tea.

The Texans will have to eat $22.5 million just to see what Diggs can do this year, which seems a hell of a punt on a guy who couldn’t deliver for the past few seasons as an ageing wide-receiver.

Stop Driving

Rashee Rice was the latest NFL star to get caught doing dumb things in a car, after being busted trashing a Lambo in Dallas recently. When will these young guys learn to stop driving?

It should be mandated by each team to make new players sign an agreement not to drive drunk, silly, or just give them a driver or Uber credits in the offseason so they don’t kill any more people.

Louis Rees-Zammit

It’s looking good for Rees, who just signed a 3 year deal with the Chiefs that will have him play a key role in the new NFL kickoff rules. With rugby playing a key role in the NFL for 2024, there is a greta chance that Louis will be a big part of the Kansas City squad.

That’s it for this edition – tune in to our April Drama podcast episode today and join Ryan and Wade as they break down all the latest news and developments in the NFL. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or just getting into the game, their engaging discussion is sure to entertain and inform. Subscribe now and stay ahead of the curve with our NFL in London podcast.