NFL in London

National Football League in London

San Francisco 49ers

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.

Make sure you listen to our latest podcast, just give it a click here.

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.

Promote Your NFL Nights

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Are you a bar owner looking to attract NFL fans and create an unforgettable atmosphere for American football in your venue? Whether you’re in London, Manchester, Glasgow, or anywhere across the UK, now is the time to capitalize on the growing NFL fanbase. The NFL’s popularity in the UK is bigger than ever, and your bar could be the go-to spot for fans to catch the action.
As the largest NFL promoter in the UK, we’re here to help you promote your NFL nights!

At “NFL in London”, we’re here to help you make that happen. With over 17 years of experience promoting NFL events across the country, we know exactly what UK fans want. We are the most experienced NFL social group in the UK, run by authentic North Americans who live and breathe the game. From London games to Thanksgiving, the Super Bowl, and everything in between, we can help you transform your venue into the ultimate NFL destination. We even have some amazing wings recipes if that’s what you’re after!

Here’s how we can help you:

Unmatched Reach & Expertise

When you partner with us, you’re not just getting an ad space or a mention. You’re gaining access to a passionate community of NFL fans across the UK. Our website has a weekly reach of over 1.3 million, and our podcast attracts more than 30,000 listeners every month. If you want to promote your NFL nights and reach fans directly, we have the audience and expertise to do it.

Our deep understanding of the NFL and its fanbase means that we know what works. We can tailor your promotion to create the perfect NFL experience, from the menu to the entertainment. With over 17 years in the game, we’ve seen it all and can guide you to ensure your venue stands out.

No Venue Too Big or Small

It doesn’t matter if you own a large sports bar in London or a cozy pub in a small town – we work with bars of all sizes and budgets. Whether you’re looking to host regular NFL nights, promote special events like the Super Bowl, or even organize fundraisers around NFL games, we’ve got you covered. We just want to make sure what you do is authentic, and shows respect to the fans and the games.

We offer flexible packages tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re just starting out and need some guidance on hosting NFL events or already have an established NFL crowd and want to take it to the next level, we can create a marketing plan that works for you.
From one-0ffs, to full event listings every week on our events page, we got you covered!

Full Support for NFL Events

NFL in London isn’t just about promotion – we’re all about helping you create an authentic NFL experience. Our team can come to your venue and set up, host, and even run your NFL nights. We know what NFL fans love, and we’ll bring that energy directly to your bar.

From setting up fantasy football leagues to keep your patrons engaged all season long, to hosting NFL trivia nights that bring fans together, we’ve got all the tools to make your NFL nights a hit. We can even provide tips on crafting an authentic menu that will make your customers feel like they’re at an American tailgate party!

Promoting Major NFL Events

The NFL season is filled with can’t-miss events, and your bar can be the centre of the action. Whether it’s promoting the London games, Thanksgiving Day matchups, or the grand finale of the Super Bowl, we can help you make your venue the place to be for these huge events.

Fans flock to bars to watch their favorite teams during these events, and we’ll ensure your venue is on their radar. Let us handle the promotion and marketing, so you can focus on delivering an incredible experience to your customers.

We can even bring in some authentic North American comedians, so that your halftime show is full of laughs, and with continuous action.

Why Choose Us?

– Proven Expertise: Over 17 years of experience in NFL event promotion.

– Extensive Reach: Reach 1.3 million NFL fans weekly and 30,000 podcast listeners monthly.

– Comprehensive Support: From small pubs to large sports bars, we can work with any budget to create a custom marketing plan.

– Authentic Experience: With a team of North Americans who know NFL culture inside and out, we can help make your NFL nights truly authentic.

We’re passionate about growing the NFL community in the UK, and we want to help you be a part of it. If you’re ready to take your NFL nights to the next level, reach out to us today. Together, we can create an unforgettable NFL experience for fans across the UK.

Let’s Get Started!

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to become a go-to destination for NFL fans in your area. Contact us now to discuss how we can help promote your NFL nights and make your bar the home of American football in the UK.

Let NFL in London help you make your bar the ultimate destination for NFL fans. Get in touch now, so we can promote your NFL nights before the season starts in September!

History of the Washington Redskins

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Perhaps one of the most iconic and controversial teams in the NFL has been the “Washington Redksins”-aka the Commanders, aka the WFT, aka who know who they will be next?

From the early years as an NFL dynasty in a tight league, to the Dan Snyder years, the team from the capital has always drawn big eyeballs. 

So let’s take a look at the history of the Washington Redskins, and why the team has only appeared in London once over the years. 

Origins and Early Years

The team known today (for now) as the Washington Commanders has a rich and controversial history that begins long before their recent name change. Originally founded in 1932, the franchise was initially based in Boston and was known as the Boston Braves. The following year, the team changed its name to the Boston Redskins. In 1937, the team relocated to Washington, D.C., becoming the Washington Redskins, a name that would stick for over 80 years. After 80 years, it became unstuck, which is where we are now.

Early Success and Championships

The move to Washington, D.C. coincided with immediate success on the field. In their first year in the capital, the Redskins won the NFL Championship, defeating the Chicago Bears. The team repeated this success in 1942, cementing its place as one of the NFL’s early powerhouses. These victories were largely due to the efforts of star players like Sammy Baugh, a pioneering quarterback known for his versatile skills. It seems that a move to the nation’s capital was a big boon for Washington and the team.

Controversies and Name Issues

The name “Redskins” has been a subject of controversy for decades. Critics argued that it was offensive and perpetuated harmful stereotypes about Native Americans. Despite mounting pressure from various groups and the broader public, the team retained the name until 2020. The debate reached a tipping point during the social justice movements of that year, leading the team to temporarily adopt the name Washington Football Team before rebranding as the Washington Commanders in 2022.
Despite numerous native groups protesting that the name was indeed ‘respectful’, many Liberal-mobsters jumped on them, proving the issue is far too contentious now.

Famous Players and Legendary Moments

The Redskins boast a roster of legendary players who have left an indelible mark on the game. Beyond Sammy Baugh, notable figures include John Riggins, whose powerful running helped the team win Super Bowl XVII. Joe Theismann, the charismatic quarterback, led the Redskins to victory in Super Bowl XVII and was instrumental in the team’s success during the 1980s. 

Art Monk, a prolific wide receiver, set numerous records and was a key player during the Redskins’ successful runs in the 1980s and early 1990s. Defensive end Dexter Manley was another standout, known for his pass-rushing prowess. Under the leadership of head coach Joe Gibbs, the Redskins won three Super Bowl titles (XVII, XXII, and XXVI), solidifying their reputation as one of the NFL’s elite teams.

The Redskins in the UK

The Washington Redskins have also made their mark across the pond. As part of the NFL’s International Series, they played a regular-season game in London at Wembley Stadium in 2016. This game against the Cincinnati Bengals ended in a dramatic 27-27 tie, showcasing the excitement and unpredictability of American football to UK fans. The match was a significant event, as it highlighted the growing popularity of the NFL in the United Kingdom and provided British fans with an opportunity to see their favorite players in action. That was however the last match London has seen for the WFT, beckoning the question as to when we will see Washington back in the UK again?

Modern Era and Rebranding

The modern era for the franchise has been one of transformation and adaptation. The rebranding to the Washington Commanders represents a new chapter, aiming to honor the team’s storied past while embracing a future of inclusivity and respect. This period has also seen the team strive to return to its former glory, with a focus on building a competitive squad through savvy draft picks and free-agent acquisitions.

Looking Ahead

As the Washington Commanders, the franchise is poised for a new era, building on its rich history while addressing past controversies. The team continues to engage with its fan base, both in the U.S. and internationally, with hopes of creating more memorable moments and legendary players for future generations. Now that Dan Snyder and his reign are over, perhaps the team can get back to trying to win their division, something that hasn’t been done for decades.

The history of the Washington Redskins is a tapestry of triumphs, controversies, and legendary figures. From their early days in Boston to their rebranding as the Washington Commanders, the team has navigated the complexities of modern sports culture. For UK fans, the Redskins’ visit to London remains a highlight, exemplifying the global reach of American football. As the Commanders, the franchise looks forward to writing the next chapter in its storied history, striving for excellence both on and off the field.

So…should they change their name?

History of the NY Giants

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As we continue our look at the history of NFL teams, we turn our attention to a franchise that will be turning 100 years old next year, and they do look good for their age. The G-Men will turn 100 in 2025, as we dig deep into the History of the NY Giants  

The New York Giants, one of the most storied franchises in the National Football League (NFL), have a rich history filled with triumphs, iconic players, and unforgettable moments. This journey through time will take you from their early days to their remarkable appearances on the international stage, particularly their games in England, which have been a thrill for UK Giants fans.

 The Birth of a Franchise

The New York Giants were founded in 1925 by Tim Mara with an initial investment of just $500. Little did Mara know, his modest investment would grow into a powerhouse of American football. The team quickly made a name for itself, winning its first NFL Championship in 1927, just two years after its inception. The Giants’ early success can be attributed to their rugged defense and a roster filled with talented players who played with grit and determination.

Little did he also know that one his great granddaughters would star in a flop of a ‘Fantastic Four’ remake, that would literally have him rolling over in his grave.

Championships and Legends

The Giants dominated the NFL in the 1930s and 1950s, becoming synonymous with championship success. Under the guidance of legendary coaches like Steve Owen and later Vince Lombardi (as an assistant), the Giants built a legacy of excellence. Key players during these decades included Mel Hein, Frank Gifford, and Sam Huff, whose contributions cemented the Giants’ place in NFL history.

One of the most memorable moments came in the 1958 NFL Championship Game, often dubbed “The Greatest Game Ever Played.” The Giants faced the Baltimore Colts in a thrilling contest that went into sudden-death overtime. Despite losing 23-17, the game’s excitement and the national television broadcast helped popularize the NFL across the United States.

Struggles and Rebirth

The 1960s and 1970s were challenging decades for the Giants. They struggled to find consistent success on the field, and their once-proud franchise experienced numerous losing seasons. However, the arrival of head coach Bill Parcells in 1983 marked the beginning of a new era.

Under Parcells, the Giants won their first Super Bowl in 1986, defeating the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XXI. This victory was followed by another championship in 1990, where they triumphed over the Buffalo Bills in Super Bowl XXV, a game remembered for Scott Norwood’s infamous missed field goal attempt. These victories revitalized the Giants’ fan base and restored their status as an NFL powerhouse.

The Eli Manning Era: Two More Super Bowls

The 2000s saw the Giants usher in another period of success, this time led by quarterback Eli Manning. The younger Manning brother delivered some of the most memorable moments in NFL history, guiding the Giants to two Super Bowl victories.

In Super Bowl XLII, the Giants pulled off a stunning upset against the previously undefeated New England Patriots. David Tyree’s “helmet catch” became one of the most iconic plays in NFL history, helping the Giants secure a 17-14 victory. Four years later, the Giants once again defeated the Patriots in Super Bowl XLVI, with Manning’s clutch performance earning him a second Super Bowl MVP award.

Giants Across the Pond

The Giants have not only made their mark in the United States but have also played a significant role in the NFL’s international expansion. The team participated in the league’s International Series, playing games in England to promote American football abroad, much to the delight of G-Men fans in Britain.

Their first trip to England came in 2007 when they faced the Miami Dolphins at Wembley Stadium. In a rain-soaked contest, the Giants emerged victorious, winning 13-10. This game was a historic moment as it was the first NFL regular-season game played outside of North America. The Giants returned to London in 2016, where they faced the Los Angeles Rams at Twickenham Stadium. Once again, the Giants showcased their resilience, securing a 17-10 win in front of an enthusiastic international crowd. 2022 was an even better result for the Giants, as they were able to topple Aaron Rodgers and the Pack 27-22 in an October 9th game. Three visits and three wins for the Giants in London, something other teams would love to boast in the UK.

As the New York Giants continue to build on their storied legacy, they remain a team steeped in tradition and excellence. With a dedicated fan base and a commitment to success, the Giants are poised to create new memories and add more chapters to their illustrious history.

Whether you’re a lifelong Giants fan or new to the world of American football, the history of the New York Giants offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of one of the NFL’s most iconic franchises. From their humble beginnings to their international triumphs, the Giants have proven time and again that they are a team to be reckoned with on any stage.

With so many international NFL games popping up each year, we should expect to see the Giants in London quite soon.