NFL in London

National Football League in London

San Francisco 49ers

Week 4 Picks

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Welcome to London NFL fans, as we discuss the Falcons Jaguars game in our Week 4 Picks podcast.

Wade and Ryan are excited to see the first NFL game of the European leg, and as the Ryder Cup has show us so far that Europe has its own winning ways.

A train and tube strike is threatening to chunk away a good selection of fans for this game sadly, so hopefully many of these late tickets will get scooped up.
All in all, it looks to be another consistent NFL London game, with low scoring and wide jersey dispersion.
The amazing UK fans more than make up for it all, and it will truly be a fun experience.

If you want to listen to the guys go off on their podcast, all you have to do is click this link here.

Among some of the games the guys look at in this episode includes:

Falcons (2-1) vs -3 Jaguars (1-2)  +43

It’s the first of the 2023 London NFL games as the Atlanta Falcons visit the home town Jacksonville Jaguars at Wembley stadium.
Despite the fact that London has no signs that the NFL is in town, apparently this game is still going ahead.
Atlanta has looked limp in their run only offence, with Desmond Ridder either not living up to his potential, or not having as much as everyone thought.
Jacksonville has a had a struggling start to the season, no thanks to their offensive line which has seen Trevor Lawrence harassed more than he’s ever been.
Ryan thinks that this game will be another London stinker, with low points and even lower intensity.
Wade is also calling for a terribly low scoring game, as teams historically take time to adjust to being in the GMT.
Ryan-Jaguars 24 Falcons 17
Wade-Jaguars 18 Falcons 14

Dolphins (3-0) vs -2.5 Bills (2-1)  +53.5

Miami shocked the shakes out of the league last week by pounding the poor Broncos with 70 points, as they continue to load up on points. But they still haven’t face a really tough D up to this point.
Buffalo are favoured by 2.5 points against Miami? Many fans think this is an insult, given the Bills struggling in their first 2 games.
Ryan is big on his Bills, and likes the boys in Western New York to choke out the Dolphins with their fast front D.
Wade agrees with Ryan, and thinks that Miami will get a touch welcome from the Bills, who will finally give Tua that threat to his MMA training.
Ryan-Bills 31 Dolphins 27
Wade-Bills 30 Dolphins 26

Rams (1-2) vs -1 Colts (2-1)  +46.5

Los Angeles Rams took a tough loss to the Bengals in week 3, losing a few more defensive players in the process. Matt Stafford is playing with renewed confidence, thanks to some speedy new receivers who have stepped up.
The Colts are 2-1 with our Jonathan Taylor, and Matt Ryan. The last name isn’t as surprising, but the play of Anthony Richardson is. Back from injury, Richardson could thrive in fantasy points against an LA  team playing with only 4 days rest.
Ryan likes the Rams to take out the Colts here, with Matt Stafford finding some holes in this Indianapolis home team.
Wade likes Richardson to use his legs and find Pittman for a few scores, as he likes the Colts to dominate the poor, tired Rams.
Ryan-Rams 21 Colts 20
Wade-Colts 23 Rams 18
Among some of the other top picks that the guys look at in these Week 4 Picks include:

Ryan

  • Tampa Bay covers against the Saints
  • Bengals beat the Titans who cover
  • Seahawks beat the Giants

Wade

  • Texans upset the Steelers
  • Bears beat the Broncos
  • Patriots cover close against the Cowboys

That’s it for our Week 4 Picks podcast, make sure that you listen to the whole thing and share it with your friends.

To everyone attending the London game at Wembley stadium this Sunday, have fun! It looks like it will be a sunny day despite the slowdown in traffic.

 

Best Places in London to Watch NFL

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Another season is about to kick off and reward us all with football greatness, but where are the Best Places in London to Watch NFL?
Well, we’ve got you covered with our list for 2023.

As a group who have been promoting and hosting live NFL viewing parties over the past 18 years across the capital, we have quite a bit of knowledge of the sport viewing landscape.

Any punter will tell you that after Covid, the whole bar and entertainment industry took a punch on the chin.
Independent pubs shuttered, quality staff found other work, and the price of pints continued to rise.

As promoters, we look to offer people the best value and service when it comes to hosting NFL nights.
Sure, we might hold things to a North American standard, but why shouldn’t we, when he have always attempted to deliver that threshold across all of our events.

So these are just our independent thoughts on almost 20 years of watching and promoting the NFL across the UK.

1. Home

Home?!?! What a lame answer to start this list off!

Well, not really if you’ve seen the price of a London pint recently, as they near ever closer to the £8 range.
When we first started promoting the NFL in London, pints were still in the £3 range, and pitchers were £10.
Those were the days!

It’s not just the crazy price of booze at London pubs and bars, but there is also the Rugby World Cup and Premier League to throw wrenches into the works of NFL viewing.
With many times and dates over-lapping with the NFL, UK-centric bars are more likely to NOT put on the NFL, with so many Sundays in contention.

The 2023 Rugby World Cup will take place MOST Sundays until Week 7 of the NFL, with games airing between 4-10pm GMT.
If you’ve never experienced a RWC during the NFL season, then you’ll quickly find out that rugby trumps American football in the UK.
They might SAY they are showing NFL, and then bartender changes the channel.
Too bad.

With DAZN taking over from Gamepass, there also hasn’t been a commercial license on offer, which means it could be illegal for many bars and pubs to show the NFL, taking us back to 2013.

Independent pun chains have also been swallowed up over the past few years, gobbling up former sports bars, and then cutting costs, taste, and fun when they rebrand it into a corporate image.
Sadly these chains are very inflexible, and demand that promoters must increase attendance week on week.
Not worth it when half the customers have to pop over to McDonald’s because the food is so dire.

When’s the last time you threw a truly awesome, NFL party?

The best NFL nights are when you have hook a few devices up to Gamepass, and invite over some friends, foes, or just fellow fans you met on social media for a few bevies and a game.

You’ll not only save lots of money, but maybe make some new friends in the process!

2. Famous Three Kings

This Fulham sports bar has a legendary status in the city, as it always seems to be the ‘go to’ place for sports viewership.

Located in West London in the posh bit of town, the Famous Three Kings has been a perennial favourite for sports fans looking to stare at loads of TVs across a cavernous pub.

Although part of a large chain, the food isn’t as abysmal as those burgers with the pre-grilled marks on them that you find in some chains.

Like many London sports bars, it closes at 10pm on Sundays.

Find out more here.

https://www.crafted-social.co.uk/famous-three-kings-west-kensington

3. King Sports Bar-Empire Casino

Leicester Square has also changed in recent years, going from a glitzy West End destination, to a urine soaked playground for the drug addled and destitute.
Great place for a night out.

The King Sports Bar at the Empire Casino benefits from not only having loads of TVs on the go with NFL action, but also being open 24 hours for your viewing, and gambling pleasure.

NFL fans will be happy to have a place to watch the games, and be centrally located enough to be able to snag a night bus home.

The food is rather mediocre, which is why it’s good to have a lot of late-night food options to explore.

https://www.thecasinolsq.com/kings-sports-bar

4. Bodeans-Soho

Bodeans is the original Canadian BBQ joint, that has a long, and storied history in Soho.

Famous for their burnt ends, Bodeans also has two floors of TV action, with NFL and Saturday College Football on tap.
Speaking of on tap, they also have a ridiculously good selection of beer and top North American food.

Of all of the London pubs, Bodean’s has the best NFL food bar none.
However, they do close at 10pm, so you won’t be able to watch the late games.

https://bodeansbbq.com/soho/

5. Sports Bar-Marylebone

One of our OG locations back in 2008, the Sports Bar Marylebone found fame due it being across from the Landmark Hotel, where many of the teams, players and cheerleaders have stayed.
The fact that Jerry Rice could walk in, sit down beside you and order wings made it a crazy place to go.

Time has seen the Sports Bar & G bought by new owners, who dropped down the food quality, but marked up the prices, so authenticity is lacking in the food, and their pints have rocketed to top end London prices.

The bar does benefit from being on the train to Wembley, making it a good place to start and finish after the game.

https://www.sportsbarandgrill.co.uk/marylebone

There are loads of other places that say that they will show NFL, but will also refuse to put it on when people show up, or just turn it off at the whim of a manager.
We can’t recommend any of these places, as we have worked with many before, and they are horrible.

Promote Your Venue

If you’re a venue looking to promote your NFL nights, let us know!

 

Where to Stay-Edmonton Green

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Loads of NFL fans from around the world have asked us about the London games, as well as tips on making your trip to the capital the best NFL experience ever.

In this post we will look at Where to Stay-Edmonton Green, an area just north of the stadium and close action to get you to the games.

Edmonton Green

Ask most Londoners 10 years ago what they thought about ‘Edmonton’, they would have shaken their heads and asked ‘why do you want to go there?’

Like everything touched by gentrification, North London continues to bloom as the cost of living pushing people further north.
Things that use to be dodgy, are now ‘up and coming’, and you can count Edmonton Green as one of those areas.

The lower part of Edmonton is known as Upper Edmonton, while the northern part is referred to as Edmonton Green, not confusing at all.

The area in Enfield Council has seen a boom in recent years as big box stores, massive condos, and new bus routes dot the area.

Where to Stay

Edmonton Green has plenty of moderately priced hotels and motels suited for anyone looking to pop in to watch the games at Tottenham.
While you could stay in the area for the Wembley games, it will be dead as a doorknob, and you might want somewhere with a bit more flavour.

Some of the hotels you might want to look at in the area include:

Travelodge Edmonton

You know what to expect from a Travelodge, and this location near the main roads will suit you fine if you’re looking for a standard stay and close getaway.

Conveniently located, and with parking, this recently updated hotel is all you need if you’re looking for an affordable night in North London.

As of our checking, we found rates during the London games from £40 per night.

If you want to find out more, you can book here.

https://www.travelodge.co.uk/hotels/527/London-Edmonton-hotel?sb=0

Premier Inn-Edmonton

From one big chain to another, the Premier Inn is another convenient location right near the heart of Edmonton Green, and a quick trip to White Hart Lane to catch the NFL games.

Unlike the Lodge, this one has it’s own bar and grill for those of you too lazy to venture out of the lobby.
Parking does look like it is charged at £12 a day, which is far less than London congestion charges.

Bog standard Premier Inn, but you can book it here.

https://www.premierinn.com/gb/en/hotels/england/greater-london/london/london-edmonton.html

Air B’nB’s

Given that this area of London is more residential, you will be spoilt for choice if you decide to book ahead and get an Air’B’n’B.

When we looked there were dozens of properties available for rent in the area, with some including full house rentals for those of you travelling with a group.

Where to Eat & Drink

Much like most of London, the city is a melting pot of various cultures, with nice smells coming from every corner.

With influences of Turkish, Greek, Albanian with traditional British fare, and a thriving high street, there is plenty of food to be found to fill you up before or after the game.

The Lamb-Edmonton

A traditional British boozer with loads of great pints on tap, as well as loads of TV for live sport.

If you want to grab a few pints before or after the game.

https://www.craftunionpubs.com/lamb-edmonton

Chaudhrys Buffet

Get your food bag on with a trip to this big ass buffet in North London.
Perfect for filling you up before or after a heavy night, who says no to a buffet?

https://chaudhrysbuffet.co.uk/

The area is quite safe, with a thriving high street, and plenty of big shops in case you just want to pick up a few things and eat in your room.

Getting to the Stadium

It’s an easy-peasy 8 minute trip to the stadium on the London Overground, with less than a 2 mile trek to the Tottenham Stadium from Edmonton Green.

There are also several buses available if the train is too busy, but given that it’s coming from the north of London, chances are it will be pretty available.

If you’re looking for places to stay, or need information, feel free to reach out!

 

Toughest in the NFL

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Which current and former players are considered the ‘Toughest in the NFL’?

We asked AI of course, because computers love American football! (at least our chat AI does).

So when we asked a few programs to tell us who indeed made the coveted Top 10 list, we were surprised to see Kobe Bryant and Cal Ripken on that chart. Hmmm, curious.

One player that was consistently left off the list, was former Cardinals hero Pat Tillman, who was killed by friendly fire. After mentioning to the arty-intelligence that it was surprising he was off the list, they all corrected it.

Anyway, here’s what AI has to say about it

Title: The Unyielding Titans: Top 10 Toughest Men to Have Played in the NFL

Introduction

The National Football League (NFL) is synonymous with grit, determination, and athleticism. Throughout its storied history, the league has seen an array of remarkable players who embody the essence of toughness. From bone-crushing tackles to awe-inspiring comebacks, these individuals have left an indelible mark on the sport. In this article, we explore the top 10 toughest men to have ever graced the NFL, showcasing their unwavering resilience and dedication to the game.

  1. Dick Butkus

Regarded as one of the most fearsome linebackers in NFL history, Dick Butkus’ ferocious hits and relentless pursuit of opponents made him a true force on the field. Playing primarily for the Chicago Bears in the 1960s, Butkus’ tenacity and leadership set the standard for modern linebackers.

  1. Jack Lambert

The Pittsburgh Steelers’ “Steel Curtain” defense owed much of its success to linebacker Jack Lambert. His missing front teeth became emblematic of his hard-nosed playing style. Lambert’s fierce competitiveness and ability to dominate the field through pain and injury solidified his legacy as one of the toughest players ever.

  1. Lawrence Taylor

Lawrence Taylor revolutionized the linebacker position with his unmatched speed and aggression. A cornerstone of the New York Giants’ defense, Taylor’s ability to disrupt plays and intimidate opponents earned him multiple Defensive Player of the Year awards and a lasting reputation as a defensive powerhouse.

  1. Brett Favre

A symbol of perseverance, Brett Favre’s record-setting career as a quarterback spanned an astonishing 20 seasons. Favre’s durability and willingness to play through injuries showcased his ironclad commitment to the game. His streak of consecutive starts is a testament to his remarkable toughness.

  1. Steve McNair

Known for his dual-threat capabilities as a quarterback, Steve McNair’s resilience was truly inspiring. McNair’s ability to perform at a high level despite a litany of injuries earned him the respect of teammates and opponents alike. His dedication and willingness to give his all made him a true warrior on the field.

  1. Ronnie Lott

Safety Ronnie Lott’s defining moment came in the 1985 playoffs when he opted to have a portion of his finger amputated in order to play. This unwavering commitment to the game perfectly encapsulates Lott’s toughness. His hard-hitting style and fearless demeanor made him a legend in the NFL.

  1. Ray Lewis

Ray Lewis, the heart and soul of the Baltimore Ravens’ defense, exemplified passion and intensity. His pre-game speeches are legendary, motivating his team to perform at their best. Lewis’ ability to play through pain and inspire his teammates showcased his unmatched resolve and determination.

  1. Chuck Bednarik

As the last of the “60-minute men,” Chuck Bednarik’s ability to excel as both a linebacker and center during the game’s early days demonstrated his incredible endurance. His bone-rattling hit on Frank Gifford in 1960 remains a defining moment in NFL history, underlining his unyielding toughness.

  1. Jim Brown

Jim Brown’s remarkable blend of power, speed, and durability made him one of the greatest running backs of all time. Despite a relatively short career, Brown’s ability to take on defenders head-on and consistently produce on the field solidified his reputation as an unrelenting force.

  1. Pat Tillman

Pat Tillman’s story is one of the most inspiring tales of sacrifice and courage in NFL history. After the tragic events of 9/11, Tillman left behind his lucrative NFL career to join the United States Army. His decision to forgo personal gain and put his life on the line showcases an unparalleled level of toughness that goes beyond the football field.

Conclusion

The NFL has seen its fair share of remarkable athletes who have redefined the concept of toughness. From bone-crunching tackles to inspiring comebacks, these players have shown an unyielding commitment to the game. Through their unwavering determination, they’ve left an indelible mark on the league and continue to inspire aspiring players to push their limits and embrace the true essence of toughness. Pat Tillman’s inclusion in this list stands as a reminder that toughness extends beyond physical prowess, embodying the courage to make sacrifices for a greater purpose.

What do you think?
In our opinion, AI is no immediate direct threat when it fails to add Tillman, or even the crazy Lyle Alzado to the list.

NFL Top 100

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It’s the offseason still, which means fans are obsessing over data as their Fantasy Draft looms, and with the NFL Top 100 list being released by the NFL Network this week, fans and players are up in a tizzy.

This annual list compiled by the NFL is always good for motivating players, as professional athletes are fuelled by ego, so telling someone that they are ranked ’89th’ when they feel like they should be ‘#1’ is quite common.

We’re not going to look at the whole list in this post, instead focusing on the Top 10 players provided by the NFL

We’ll look at the top 10 ranked players by the NFL Network for the 2023 season, and decide if we agree or disagree, and slot in the person we think should be there. Sound good?

NFL Top 10

1. Patrick Mahomes-AGREE

Patrick Mahomes is our top player for 2023, after another commanding performance and Super Bowl in 2022. Mahomes is the best playmaker in the league, whether it’s consistently finding Travis Kelce ANYWHERE on the field, to his amazing baseball and side throws. In 2022 the NFL world claimed that Joe Burrow was going to win it all, but then came Mahomes and set the records straight.

2. Josh Allen-DISAGREE

Josh Allen is a great QB, but if 2022 was any indication, there is still a lot to be done in Buffalo. Allen has a tendency to force the ball down the field on long attempts, which made the Bills either playing catch-up, of Josh getting picked. With all the drama going on in Buffalo, and changes to the AFC East, maybe the Bills time has passed.

Our #2-Joe Burrow

3. Joe Burrow-DISAGREE

We had Joe Burrow in second place to Mahomes, after two solid years of playoff contention. Burrow has had to contend with depleted O-lines, injuries to his wide-receivers, and to himself, but still this LSU boy continues to deliver competitive performances. The Bengals have made the changes to support Burrow this season, and the only way is up!

Our #3-Tyreek Hill

4. Nick Bosa-DISAGREE

Nick Bosa is a beast, and has an amazing impact on pushing the 49ers D into the directions that they need to go. But number 4 ranked player in the NFL? One could argue that TJ Watt (when healthy) has more of a dramatic effect on D in changing game tempo.
Bosa is good, but maybe not that good.

Our #4 Travis Kelce

5. Myles Garrett-DISAGREE

Garret is a monster in the trenches, and can single-handedly change a game, combined with the whole Browns D, but number 5 is pretty high for a guy who has had some up and down seasons.
This good be a pivotal year for Myles, especially if Deshaun finally comes into gear.

Our #5-Justin Jefferson

6. Travis Kelce-DISAGREE

When you look at the TE stats, and how much of an impact player Kelce is, it is truly amazing. Probably the best TE to play the game, Kelce continues to deliver across the middle of the field, shaking of tiny defenders with ease.
The tandem of Mahomes-Kelce is the most consistent point-scoring machine in the NFL.
Hard to see if slowing down in 2023.

Our #6-Josh Allen

7. Justin Jefferson-DISAGREE

JJ is the top wide receiver in the NFL right now, and is top of the list in most fantasy drafts for 2023. It’s a shame that he has Kirk Cousins as a QB, but the Vikings still look like top candidates for the NFC North title. Jefferson is a beast, that’s why we had him earlier up at #5.

Our #7-Nick Bosa

8-Micah Parsons-AGREE

Micah Parsons IS the Dallas D, becoming one of the best edge rushers in the NFL. While most people shudder at the thought of watching the Cowboys play, seeing Micah on the field is an absolute delight.
Dallas has a lot to do this season if they want to pip the mighty Eagles, but Parsons will be one of the keys to shut down D.

9-Aaron Donald-DISAGREE

Oh the poor Rams. They spent to buy a Super Bowl, and now they are stuck with some thing, and often injured talent. Donald is 32 years old and missed 5 games to injury in 2022, so it’s surprising that the NFL Network ranked him so highly on this list.

Our #9-Chris Jones

10-Trent Williams-DISAGREE

There is no denying that Trent Williams is the best left tackle in the league, and definitely belongs in the top 15, but top 10 might be a stretch. There are a lot of pieces to the San Francisco D, and Williams is deffo a big part of it.

Our #10-TJ Watt

That’s it for review of the NFL Top 100 put out by the NFL Network. Who do you think should be in the top 10?