NFL in London

National Football League in London

NFL International

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. 

Writers Wanted

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Writers wanted NFL fans in London and beyond! Are you passionate about American football and have a flair for writing? NFL in London is seeking talented wordsmiths to join our team and help bring the excitement of the NFL to a global audience to join our NFL team. As we expand our coverage of American football in the UK and beyond, we’re looking for fresh voices to contribute engaging content to our platform.
Hate the Packers? Bring it. Cowboys fan with plenty to say? Jot it down. Panthers fan who thinks ‘this is the year’? WTF bud?
Nothing is off limits, except hate or product placements. 

The Position

We’re on the hunt for writers who can craft compelling, opinion-based articles about the NFL, with a particular focus on the league’s presence in London and its global impact. This is an opportunity to share your unique perspective on America’s favourite sport with an international readership.
Whether it’s where to watch the games, things to do in the city, or even cool history about the games in London and beyond.
We’re looking for writers of all opinions. 

Key Responsibilities

– Produce original, thought-provoking content about the NFL

– Focus on NFL games in London and the sport’s growing international presence

– Offer fresh insights and analysis on teams, players, and league developments

– Engage with readers through your unique voice and style

The Team

At NFL in London, we’re more than just a website – we’re a community of football enthusiasts dedicated to growing the sport’s presence across the pond. Our team consists of passionate writers, podcasters, and content creators who live and breathe American football. We started this way back in 2008, and since then we’ve hosted events at Wembley, Tottenham, the Hippodrome Casino, and all across London. By joining us, for our Writers Wanted pitch you’ll become part of a dynamic group that’s already carved out a niche across Facebook, Insta, our podcast, and our live events.
We’re always looking for promoters as well, and happy to create unique marketing campaigns for any bars looking to bring in NFL fans. 

Ideal Skills and Qualifications

– Strong writing abilities with a knack for engaging storytelling

– In-depth knowledge of the NFL, its teams, players, and history

– Understanding of the sport’s growing international appeal, especially in the UK

– Ability to meet deadlines and produce consistent, high-quality content

– Familiarity with SEO best practices is a plus, but not required

-Graphic design/ video editing skills

Content Guidelines

– Articles should be a minimum of 700 words

– Keep the content family-friendly’ish – no vulgar language or team hate

– Avoid promotional content or product placement

– All submissions must be original and not solely generated by AI

Benefits

While this is currently an unpaid position, the exposure and opportunities it provides are valuable:

– Your work will reach an audience of over 50,000 readers

– Potential to join our NFL in London podcast as a guest or regular contributor

– Opportunities to attend NFL training camps and gain behind-the-scenes access

– Involvement in NFL London games, including potential press access

– Build your portfolio and gain recognition in the sports writing community

NFL 2024 and Beyond

As the NFL continues to expand its international presence, particularly in London, your role as a writer for NFL in London will put you at the centre of this exciting growth. You’ll have the opportunity to cover:

– The increasing number of NFL games played in London

– The potential for a permanent NFL franchise in the UK

– The development of homegrown British talent in American football

– The cultural impact of the NFL’s expansion into new markets

How to Apply

Ready to join our team? Here’s how to throw your hat in the ring:

1. Submit a 700-word sample article on any NFL-related topic and include ‘Writers Wanted’ anywhere in your response 

2. Include a brief bio and any relevant writing experience

3. Share your ideas for future articles or content series

4. Send your application to mapleyankeesports@gmail.com with the title Writers Wanted-(your name) 

Not a Writer?

We’re always on the lookout for creative content in various formats. If you have ideas for videos, memes, infographics, or other innovative ways to engage our audience, we want to hear from you too!

This is more than just a writing gig – it’s a chance to be part of the NFL’s exciting journey across London the globe. Whether you’re a seasoned sports writer or a passionate fan with a talent for words, we want to hear your voice. Join the NFL in London team and help us share the thrill of American football with fans around the world! We’re on the way with video as well, so throw us your best Hail Mary. 

London Games 2024

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We can all breathe a collective sigh of relief as the NFL has finally released the upcoming schedule, allowing us to know who is playing in the London Games 2024. Once again it looks like the UK is in for another set of great games, Germany-not so much.

The 2024 has given us a whole new set of viewing parameters for the season, with the Chiefs playing on six different days of the week, the Jets feasting on primetime games, and the Panthers sucking on a big old bag of nothing. So much to think about, and the season hasn’t even started yet!

Let’s look at the London games we have lined up for October 2024.

Jets vs Vikings-Oct 6-Tottenham

Aaron Rodgers is coming to London folks-if he’s healthy, as the first game up is an AFC/ NFC contest.
Minnesota has moved up at QB, and with the talent they have at wide receivers , this could be a matchup between two winning teams.

Early October in London is usually sunny and sweet, so we should also benefit from some balmy temperatures, and great events hosted by the NFLUK.

As the first up of the trio, this one will certainly be of media interest, as Aaron Rodgers is a constant celebrity, and full of soundbites that should tickle the UK media.

Jaguars vs Bears-Oct 13-Tottenham

Bears fans all over Europe will be salivating over this one, as they finally get to see a potential franchise quarterback in the making. Chicago already has a home nation status for England, which means that the Bears will go full out to make sure that this game will go down in the history books.

Jacksonville went 2-0 in their 2023 London games, even busting down the Buffalo Bills in a dramatic game. Then their season went downhill, so it will be interesting to see if Trevor Lawrence will be able to rebound in 2024 as they look to play in London twice again.

Patriots vs Jaguars-Oct 20-Wembley

The Jags host a second game at home, as they take on New England in an AFC showdown. Ok, maybe not a showdown, as the Pats have been less than stellar without that TB12 magic.

The Patriots are committed to Drake Make, and with the recent social image of him looking like Tom Brady’s son, there is hope once again in the loins of Boston. They have a tough division though, so they might be walking into London with a few wins.

It might not be the most popular of the games, but with recent news of new international destinations, this could be the last time that London sees a 3 game set for a while.

Internationals

Other NFL global games to watch out for are the week 1 match between the Packers and Eagles in Brazil on September 6th. This will be a tough test for Jordan Love against an Eagles squad looking for some NFC respect, and they have been starting strong the past few seasons.

Germany gets a bit of coin flip from last year’s AFC behemoth, as they get saddled with a lowly game between the Giants and Panthers in Week 10 on November 10th. Again, it’s easy to make quick snides like this, but who knows what could happen this year with two QBs with massive chips on their shoulders.

Other news this week tips Ireland and Australia for other upcoming potential international destinations.
Tough luck for Canada, who probably ruined their chances by hosting atrocious games in the past, and will probably never see one again unless a billionaire is able to buy a team.

Podcast

Our new podcast is up! So why not have a great listen to the boys ramble on about all the latest NFL news, including the international games, summertime blues, and how Netflix is making out in the streaming.

Tom Brady Roast Review

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With the NFL season still months away, fans are Jonesing for anything football related to satiate the feels, so when Netflix released the Roast of Tom Brady on Sunday, fans were thrilled to get a bit of football to soothe those DTs.

So was it any good? Is it worth watching? Does TB12 cry? Let’s break some of it all down in our Tom Brady Roast Review.

Roasts

Anyone with a love of comedy will remember the notorious Friar’s Club Roasts that emerged out of a vaudeville era. As the Roasts grew in the 70s’, so was the appetite for celebrities to be roasted by famous comedians and other celebs to validate their ego in a slosh filled affair.

When comedian Jeffrey Ross pushed to reinvigorate the format in the early 2000s’, we were treated to some of the most outrageous and bawdy comedic lines in history. The Roasts of David Hasselhoff and Pamela Anderson had the likes of Greg Goraoldo, Lisa Lampanelli, and some of the harshest take downs in history.

Recently however, celebrities have been coy to attend given that any of their past deeds to could be brought up, and flashed in their face. To put it plainly, celebs today are too much of a pussy to take it.

Brady Steps Up

Is was good of Tom Brady to put himself up for this, even if it was probably his management to add a bit of humanity to him before his Fox gig.

Brady was a good sport about the various digs about his failed marriage, leaving a pregnant ex, and deflating balls. It seems that the only thing that really irked Tommy was when Jeff Ross made a masturbatory joke at the expense of Robert Kraft, which caused Tom to get out of his seat and remonstrate Ross with a quick ‘don’t do that shit again.’

Apparently there were boundaries.

The Niki Glaser Show

They might as well have given the whole roast to comedian Niki Glaser, who was most definitely the funniest person on the dais Sunday night. Anyone who says ‘women aren’t funny’ might want to see the master craft set that Niki blasted at Tom in a relentless fashion.

Cool, collected and with impeccable Swiss timing, Glaser was able to set the bar so high, that even Randy Moss seemed high when he followed her. Her shots at Gronk were so savage, it’s doubtful that he even got them.

Niki is one of the ‘old school’ roasters on the panel, and it was easy to see why she was the best, and so hard to follow.

Jew Bledsoe

Aside from the typical American race-bait jokes, it was interesting to see Drew Bledsoe toss a little antisemitism Julian Edleman’s way. Not only did Drew shade Edelman’s heritage, but also threw in a few ‘Jewy’ jokes about him haggling his own contract, and be able to switch from a nickel to a dime with added value.

Bledsoe extolled the virtues of winery and marriage, neither of which seemed to be in attendance that night as he was cast off to the side by himself.

Kim K

It wouldn’t be LA (or Englewood) without having a Kardashian at the Roast, as Kim represented her clan to a shower of boos from the home crowd.

Despite the assistance of numerous writers, Kardashian, like many non-comics struggled to get the belly laughs, and consistent ribbing.

Tom was able to lob a funny ‘Kanye’ fathering joke at Kim, which deflated any reason for her to be there.

Roasts are a good indicator of the ‘natural funny’ of a person, and Kim certainly doesn’t have it.

Where’s the Booze?

For a 3+ hour affair that is usually flushed with booze, most of the panel seemed to hold an empty glass for most of the evening.

Drew Bledsoe was wireless as he talked about being winless, Brady had 2 empty glasses on the go, and Kevin Hart seemed like he was smashed from the start, and got drunker and surlier as the night went on.

Although Bill Belichick was never shown drinking, he bounced around that microphone like he had a few. And when Brady hit him later with the dig about doing the dirty and getting caught on a Ring, well that was just hilarious.

All in all it was a fun roast, but  along roast. Netflix will be hoping to smash more of these sports events down our throats to atone for those years of ‘wokrness’, but it will be interesting to see if anyone will have the stones to be able to take a good bashing.

Good on Tom Brady for taking it.

 

 

 

History of London Games

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The NFL has had a powerful impact on London, so much so that we wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for their commitment to establishing it here. 

So let’s take a look at the History of the London Games to give us a little perspective on how indelible the league has been in setting up shop in London, allowing it to pivot internationally to great success. 

And we’re very happy that they did!

In October 2007, Wembley Stadium witnessed history as it hosted the inaugural NFL game in London. The matchup between the Miami Dolphins and the New York Giants marked the beginning of a new era for American football fans in the UK and Europe. With over 81,000 spectators filling the iconic venue, the atmosphere was electric as fans eagerly embraced the opportunity to experience the excitement of NFL football on British soil.

Evolution of the International Series

What started as an experimental venture to gauge international interest in American football has since evolved into an annual tradition cherished by fans across the globe. Over the years, the NFL International Series has grown in scope and significance, with multiple games now held at various venues across London. From Wembley Stadium to Twickenham Stadium and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, each venue has played host to thrilling matchups and unforgettable moments.

Now look at the NFL, it’s everywhere on TV and streaming shows. The sheer power of the league and its commitment to London is a testament to the power of the game, and the NFL. 

Camaraderie Among Fans

One of the most remarkable aspects of the NFL’s presence in London is the sense of camaraderie and community it fosters among fans. Regardless of team allegiance, supporters from all walks of life come together to celebrate their shared love of the game. Tailgate parties, fan rallies, and meet-and-greets with NFL legends have become integral parts of the London game-day experience, creating a vibrant atmosphere that transcends borders and cultures.

Look at any London NFL game and you’ll see a swath of various jerseys from current to fantasy. The Brits love fancy dress, so don’t expect them to come dressed in battle uniform, it’s supposed to be about personality. 

Thrilling Comebacks and Overtime Dramas

On the field, NFL games played in London have produced no shortage of memorable moments and dramatic finishes. From thrilling come-from-behind victories to nail-biting overtime showdowns, each game has provided fans with heart-stopping excitement and edge-of-your-seat action. Whether it’s a game-winning touchdown catch in the final seconds or a game-saving interception in overtime, every play leaves an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of fans.

Every year the games get better, and that’s a good thing. 

NFL’s Impact on UK and European Culture

Beyond the gridiron, the NFL International Series has had a profound impact on UK and European culture. Through initiatives such as NFL UK Academy and NFL Flag Football, the league has invested in grassroots development programs aimed at nurturing the next generation of talent. By promoting inclusivity and diversity, the NFL has not only expanded the reach of American football but also enriched the sporting landscape in the UK and Europe.

You can see it on the high streets and shops, as NFL merch is growing in street popularity with the kids. The NFL is cool yo!

The Bright Future of the NFL in London

As the NFL International Series continues to evolve and grow, the future looks brighter than ever for American football in London and beyond. With the recent addition of regular-season games in other European cities, such as Mexico City and Munich, the league’s global footprint continues to expand. With each passing year, the spirit of the game continues to unite fans across continents, celebrating the shared joy of gridiron glory.

And a a week 1 game in Brazil between the Eagles and Packers? C’mon!

We here at NFL in London sure look forward to putting on more fantastic events for the fans. 

Highest Scoring London Games

The London games have been notoriously low scoring affairs thanks to numerous reasons, but that doesn’t mean that the capital hasn’t seen its share of exciting matches.

Here are some of the highest scoring NFL games that London has hosted over the past 17 years, and there have been a lot of them.

Please let us know what your favourite London games have been, and be sure to add photos!

Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Indianapolis Colts
October 2, 2016

Jaguars 30, Colts 27

In a thrilling matchup, the Jaguars and Colts traded blows throughout the game. Jaguars quarterback Blake Bortles threw for over 300 yards and a touchdown, while running back T.J. Yeldon rushed for a score. The Colts, led by quarterback Andrew Luck, mounted a late comeback attempt, but a decisive interception by Jaguars’ safety Clayton Geathers sealed the victory for Jacksonville in front of a raucous London crowd.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Carolina Panthers
October 13, 2019

Panthers 37, Buccaneers 26

The Buccaneers and Panthers engaged in a high-scoring shootout, with both offenses lighting up the scoreboard. Panthers quarterback Kyle Allen threw for over 200 yards and two touchdowns, while running back Christian McCaffrey dominated with over 150 yards from scrimmage and two touchdowns. Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston countered with over 400 passing yards and two touchdowns, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Panthers’ offensive onslaught.

Los Angeles Chargers vs. Tennessee Titans
October 21, 2018

Chargers 20, Titans 19

In a closely contested battle, the Chargers and Titans exchanged field goals and touchdowns throughout the game. Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota orchestrated a late scoring drive to put Tennessee ahead, but a missed two-point conversion sealed their fate. Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers led a game-winning drive, culminating in a touchdown pass to wide receiver Mike Williams. The Chargers’ defense held firm in the final moments to secure the narrow victory.

Detroit Lions vs. Atlanta Falcons
October 26, 2014

Lions 22, Falcons 21

The Lions staged a remarkable fourth-quarter comeback to defeat the Falcons in a thrilling contest. Trailing by 21 points at halftime, Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford rallied his team with over 300 passing yards and two touchdowns. The game-winning score came on a late touchdown pass from Stafford to wide receiver Golden Tate, capping off a dramatic comeback victory for Detroit in front of an enthusiastic London crowd.

Miami Dolphins vs. New York Jets
October 4, 2015

Dolphins 27, Jets 14

The Dolphins controlled the game from start to finish, dominating the Jets on both sides of the ball. Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill threw for over 200 yards and two touchdowns, while the defense stifled the Jets’ offense, forcing multiple turnovers. Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick struggled to find rhythm against Miami’s defense, managing only one touchdown pass in a disappointing performance for New York.

These game highlights showcase the excitement and drama of the highest-scoring NFL games played in London, underscoring the growing popularity of American football in the UK and Europe. It’s only getting bigger and better thanks to the bright, big minds at the NFLUK.

Hopefully with more NFL games hitting Europe in upcoming years, we’ll see some big scores to reward the fans who love the NFL so much.