There are just eight teams left standing. As we enter the divisional round of the 2025 National Football League playoffs, the stakes have never been higher, and the margin for error has never been thinner.

On the latest episode of the Pig Pen, Darin Hayes was joined by Ed Kleese to break down a wild Wild Card weekend and look ahead to the battles to come. But before diving into the X’s and O’s, the conversation struck a chord that every football fan—and player—knows all too well: the sudden, crushing weight of playoff finality.

For fans in Western Pennsylvania, this week brought a "double whammy." Not only are they nursing the lumps of a playoff exit, but they are facing the rare territory of losing a coach. It’s a feeling Ed Kleese describes through the lens of a football legend.

"We've talked many times about Madden and Summerall," Ed noted. "As a young kid growing up, Madden was sort of my football Yoda. It’s the first time I ever heard the word finality."

Ed recalled how John Madden would often point out the losing sideline—the players sitting on the bench with heads in hands, looking forlorn. That empty feeling isn't just for the fans whose weekend routines suddenly vanish; it’s the realization for veterans like Bobby Wagner or Zach Ertz that this might have been their "last true shot."

John Madden spoke from experience; having been on the losing end of the "Immaculate Reception" game, he knew exactly how it felt to have his heart ripped out in an instant.

As the guys moved into the game recaps, the theme of the weekend was survival. In the opening game, both the Rams and the Panthers played a contest far closer than the ten-and-a-half-point spread suggested.

"That was actually the most surprising thing to me of the whole weekend—how close the Rams came to being eliminated," Ed remarked. Despite a 14-0 lead, the Rams found themselves in a dogfight against a Panthers team that was far more prepared than the pundits gave them credit for.

Darin observed that while the Panthers "played their tails off," the better team ultimately wise up when it mattered most. It served as a reminder of the "glass slipper" effect in the playoffs: it’s fun to root for the underdog, but as Ed pointed out, "the glass slipper often doesn’t fit nearly as nicely" in the following round. The Rams survived, but the scares were just beginning for the rest of the league.

As the dust settles on a wild opening weekend of the playoffs, Darin Hayes and Ed Kleese sit down to dissect the survival of a dynasty, the fallout of a Steelers collapse, and what to expect in a high-stakes Divisional Round.

The Patriots’ victory over the Chargers wasn't a masterclass in scoring, but it was a masterclass in situational football. Darin and Ed noted the striking similarities between this 2025 squad and the 2001 team that launched the Brady era.

“They were tough and gritty and just got the job done,” Ed remarked. While Drake May didn't light up the stat sheet, his ability to manage the game and "flip the field" kept the Chargers under constant pressure. It’s a slow build, reminiscent of a juggernaut in the making, even if the "evil genius" era of trading back for draft capital has evolved into something new.

While the Patriots are rising, the Steelers are left with difficult questions. Despite a 24-point loss to the Texans, Ed offered a shocking grade for the winning quarterback: “I would have graded C.J. Stroud as an F... and they still won by 24.”

The story wasn't Stroud's five fumbles or poor accuracy; it was a total collapse of the Steelers' offensive line. Aaron Rodgers, potentially playing his final snaps in the NFL, was "under siege" from an onslaught of Texans pass rushers. With Mike Tomlin stepping away after 19 seasons without a losing record, the Steelers are facing their first true "reset" in decades.

Looking ahead to the next round, the guys are putting their reputations—and their points—on the line.

This matchup pits the better quarterback (Josh Allen) against the better overall team (Denver).

• The Consensus:Both Darin and Ed are riding with "Superman" Josh Allen to lead Buffalo to a victory.
• Bold Take (Ed):Allen accounts for 3 TDs, while Bo Nix makes a critical second-half error.
• Bold Take (Darin):James Cook breaks off three "explosive" runs of 20+ yards.

A division rivalry renewed on the big stage.

• The Consensus:Seattle takes it. The 49ers are simply too beat up, especially with George Kittle’s injury.
• Bold Take (Ed):Seattle wins by 10+, and Sam Darnold somehow finishes with zero interceptions.
• Bold Take (Darin):Brock Purdy gets picked off twice as he’s forced to chase the game.

Can the Patriots’ defense stifle Stroud again?

• The Split:Ed sees Drake May using his legs for 40+ rushing yards in a Pats win. Darin disagree, betting on a Stroud bounce-back and a dominant Texans defense that forces three turnovers.

A battle for NFC supremacy.

• The Consensus:The Rams are the most consistent team in the league. Both experts expect Stafford to lead them past Caleb Williams and the Bears.
• Bold Take (Ed):Stafford clears 300 yards, and the Rams' defense sacks Williams three times.
• Bold Take (Darin):A double-century: Kyron Williams and Puka Nacua both go over 100 yards of total offense.

As the race for the season title sits at a razor-thin 90-89, every bold prediction counts. Will we see a Rams-Seahawks NFC Championship, or can the gritty Patriots pull off the ultimate throwback run?

Catch the full discussion on the latest episode of the Pig Pen podcast.

Join us at the Pigskin Dispatch website to see even more Positive football news!

Don't forget to check out and subscribe to the Pigskin Dispatch YouTube channel for additional content and the regular Football History Minute Shorts.

Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well don't, because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.

Mentioned in this episode:

Sports History Theme Song

This theme song was produced by Ron "Tyke" Oliver of Music Meets Sportz

In the modern era of American football, we rarely give a second thought to the ball itself. We grab it, check the grip, and if it feels a little soft, we insert a needle for a quick five-second fix. However, as Darin Hayes and Timothy Brown of Football Archaeology recently discussed, the simple act of keeping air inside a football was once one of the sport's most significant technical hurdles.

Tim illuminates the intricate innovations that have transpired over the decades, culminating in the sophisticated mechanisms we observe today. He elaborates on the concept of the "adjacent possible," which underscores the incremental advancements that characterize technological progress in our sport. Through this exploration, we gain profound insights into the seemingly simple act of inflating a football, revealing a rich tapestry of innovation and adaptation inherent in the sport's history. The conversation is based on Mr Brown's recent Tidbit titled: Inflating Footballs, the Adjacent Possible, and Progress , complete with some excellent imagery.

In the earliest days of the game, the term "pigskin" was literal. The internal bladder of a football was often an actual animal bladder—from a pig or a sheep. To inflate these primitive balls, someone had to quite literally blow into a stem, much like inflating a balloon, before folding the nozzle over and tying it off.

This method was as dangerous as it was unhygienic. As Timothy Brown noted, legend has it that the wife of the man who invented the vulcanized rubber bladder actually died from the bacteria or strain involved in blowing up animal bladders. This grim reality spurred the first major innovation: the move toward rubberized bladders and manual pumps that resembled old-fashioned insecticide sprayers.

Brown highlights a concept from evolutionary biology called the "adjacent possible." This theory suggests that innovation rarely happens in giant leaps; instead, it moves in small, iterative steps. We see this clearly in the mid-1920s.

For decades, even after rubber bladders became standard, the process was cumbersome. To inflate a ball, you had to completely unlace the leather housing, pull out the bladder, connect a pump to a long "Schrader valve" (similar to a bicycle tire), pump it up, and then lace the ball back together.

In 1924, Spalding invented a flatter valve that sat flush against the bladder. Curiously, even with this new tech, it took another two years before someone realized they could simply punch a hole through the leather to reach the valve. Up until 1926, players were still unlacing the ball every time it lost pressure, simply because the "obvious" next step—the needle-and-button system we use today—wasn't yet part of the "adjacent possible."

The transition was slow. During the 1920s, a football wasn't something you just took out of a box. Every game required a fresh assembly. Equipment managers would have to manually insert the bladder, carefully align the nozzle, and sew the laces by hand.

Even as late as the 1930s, footballs often featured a small screw-on cap over the nozzle—much like a car tire—to keep dirt and water out of the valve. It’s a far cry from today’s high-tech, ready-to-play equipment, reminding us that the "good old days" of football required as much work off the field as they did on it.

Join us at the Pigskin Dispatch website to see even more Positive football news!

Don't forget to check out and subscribe to the Pigskin Dispatch YouTube channel for additional content and the regular Football History Minute Shorts.

Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well don't, because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website. 

Mentioned in this episode:

Sports History Theme Song

This theme song was produced by Ron "Tyke" Oliver of Music Meets Sportz

In the brutal, high-stakes world of college football, a jersey number is more than just an identifier—it’s a symbol. Some numbers are synonymous with brute force; others, with sheer speed. But the number 4? Among all numbers, it stands out for being worn by elite difference-makers. This article will rank the top four most legendary college football players to ever wear number 4, examining how they rose above fierce competition to set the standard for greatness. Prepare to explore the storied careers of the gridiron giants who made this simple digit a symbol of college football royalty.

• Champ Baileywas a rare two-way superstar at the University of Georgia, excelling as a cornerback and wide receiver and even playing on special teams. He was recognized as a consensus All-American in 1998 and earned the Bronko Nagurski Trophy as the nation's best defensive player before becoming a top-ten NFL Draft pick.
• Steve Walshwas one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in University of Miami history during the late 1980s. As the Hurricanes’ starter in 1988, he led the team to an undefeated season and a national championship, earning consensus All-American honors in the process. Walsh also finished fourth in the Heisman Trophy voting that year and was a finalist for the Maxwell and Davey O’Brien Awards, cementing his legacy as an elite college football player.
• QuarterbackJim Harbaughstarred for Michigan, finishing third in 1986 Heisman voting and setting the school's passing efficiency record while wearing No. 4.
• Terence Newman -As a dominant cornerback for Kansas State, Terence Newman was recognized as the nation's top defensive back, earning the prestigious Jim Thorpe Award and unanimous first-team All-American honors in 2002.
• Deshaun Watson (Clemson):Wearing jersey 4 was a special honor, as former Tiger legend Steve Fuller allowed Clemson to un-retire the number specifically for Watson. Watson became a Clemson icon by leading the Tigers to their first national championship since 1981, capping his career with a dramatic victory over Alabama in 2017. During his prolific tenure, he achieved a stunning 32-3 record as a starter while accumulating over 10,000 passing yards and 161 total touchdowns.
• Dalvin Cook (Florida State):An electrifying running back who wore #4 despite it often being a QB number, breaking records for the Seminoles. Cook was one of the most accomplished running backs inFlorida State Seminoles history. During his collegiate career, he earned consensus All-American honors and was a Heisman Trophy finalist in 2016 after leading the nation in yards from scrimmage. Cook also won the Jim Brown Award as the nation’s top running back and set multiple school records, including career rushing yards and touchdowns, cementing his legacy as one of Florida State’s all-time greats.
• Jeremiyah Lovewas a running back for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. He had a stellar junior season in 2025, culminating in several major accolades. Love was named theDoak Walker Award Winneras the nation's top running back, becoming the first player in Notre Dame program history to receive the honor. In 2025, he was also recognized as aUnanimous All-Americanand aConsensus All-Americanand was aHeisman Finalist. That year, he set a program record for total touchdowns in a season with 21 and tied the program record for rushing touchdowns with 18. He finished the season with 1,372 rushing yards on 199 carries and 27 receptions for 280 receiving yards, totaling 1,652 yards from scrimmage.
• Brett Favre (Southern Miss):The Hall of Famer started his college career wearing #4, a number he stuck with in the NFL. Favre played quarterback at Southern Miss from 1987 to 1990, capping his collegiate career with a senior-year completion percentage of 54.5% before being selected in the second round of the 1991 NFL Draft. Though an NFL legend, he narrowly misses the elite college #4 list due to competition at the position.
• Plaxico Burress (Michigan State):A standout receiver who had dominant seasons as #4 with the Spartans.
• David Anderson (Colorado State):A record-setting receiver, ranking second in CSU history for career receptions and yards.

• Steve Fullerwas a legendary Clemson quarterback, earning consensus All-American honors in 1978 and becoming the first Clemson player to win ACC Player of the Year honors twice (1977 and 1978), helping re-establish the Tigers as a national power. As mentioned earlier, Clemson also holds Deshaun Watson’s career in high regard for the number 4.

• Derek Carrset school and conference passing records at Fresno State. In his senior season, he won the Sammy Baugh Trophy and was named Mountain West Offensive Player of the Year.

• Charles Alexander:LSU running back, consensus All-American in 1977 and 1978, and fifth in 1978 Heisman voting. Later inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.
• Vic Hansonwas a phenomenal college athlete at Syracuse University in the 1920s, earning 9 varsity letters in football, basketball, and baseball. As a basketball player, he was a three-time All-American (1925, 1926, and 1927) and was named theHelms Foundation Player of the Yearfor his senior season in 1927. He led the Syracuse basketball team to a 48-7 record over three varsity seasons, highlighted by the1925-26 team, which went 19-1 and was recognized as national championsby the Helms Foundation.
• Hanson holds the unique distinction of being the only person to be inducted into both theNaismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame(1960) and theCollege Football Hall of Fame(1973).
• Jason Hanson:Kicker and punter for Washington State, named a consensus All-American four times (1988–1991), considered one of the NCAA's most accurate kickers.
• Bert Metzger:Bertram "Bert" Metzger was a notable guard for theUniversity of Notre Dame Fighting Irish football teamfrom 1928 to 1930 under legendary coach Knute Rockne. Despite his relatively small stature, which earned him the nickname the "watch-charm guard," Metzger was an aggressive and highly effective player. His final two seasons, 1929 and 1930, saw the Fighting Irish achieve undefeated records and capturetwo recognized National Championships(1929 and 1930). Metzger's collegiate accolades include being named aFirst-team All-American in 1930, and his career was later honored with an induction into theCollege Football Hall of Fame in 1982.
• Ed Tryon:Versatile Colgate running back and quarterback, consensus All-American in 1925, and one of the school's most decorated players.
• Adam Walsh:Walsh was anAll-Americancenter and thecaptainof the 1924 University of Notre Dame football team under coach Knute Rockne. He anchored the offensive line, known as the "Seven Mules," who blocked for the legendary "Four Horsemen" backfield. The 1924 team completed an undefeated season, securing aNational Championshipwith a victory in the Rose Bowl. For his distinguished playing career, Walsh was laterinducted into the College Football Hall of Famein 1968 and was also named to the All-time Notre Dame Team.

Despite these legendary players, no Heisman winner has worn number 4.

• Jerry Jeudy(WR): A phenomenal wide receiver, National Champion, and first-round NFL draft pick who made big plays in #4.
• Jalen Milroe (Alabama):A recent standout QB who picked #4 for personal reasons (his birthday) and led Alabama to success.
• Eddie Jackson(S): A key defensive leader and playmaker during the championship era, earning All-American honors in #4.
• Mark Barron(S): A highly decorated safety and multiple national champion, also wore #4 during his impactful career.
• T.J. Yeldon- a solid running back who helped the Tide Roll to the 2012 National Championship.
• Brian Robinson Jr. (RB): Wore #4 during the 2021 season, a crucial year where he had a breakout year, rushing for nearly 900 yards.

So we have mentioned a couple of Fighting Irish legends who sported the number 4 on their jerseys in College Hall of Famers Bert Metzger and Adam Walsh, and recent stud Jeremiyah Love. Here is a short list of other outstanding Notre Dame alums who proudly wore the 4.

• Lee Becton- RB - 1991-94
• Kory Minor- LB - 1995-98
• Ryan Grant- RB - 2001-04

• Kirk Herbstreit(QB, 1990-93):A team MVP and captain, Herbstreit led the Buckeyes as starting QB in 1992 and became a prominent ESPN analyst.
• Kurt Coleman(S, 2006-09): An All-American, Big Ten First Team selection, and team captain, Coleman capped his career with a Rose Bowl win.
• Curtis Samuel(RB/WR, 2014-16): An All-American and All-Big Ten performer known for his versatility and big-play ability.
• Jeremiah Smith(WR, 2024-2025): A highly touted young receiver building a strong legacy early in his career.
• Jordan Fuller(S, 2016-18): A key defensive player, Fuller earned All-Big Ten honors and captained the team.
• Santonio Holmes(WR, 2003-05): A first-round NFL Draft pick who wore #4 during his impactful Buckeyes career.

In addition to the aforementioned Steve Walsh, here are some other Jersey number 4 Canes’ standouts.

• Devin Hesterwas a dynamic all-purpose player who earnedFirst-team All-Americanhonors in 2004 as a kick returner. He set a school record for return touchdowns in a season (4) and was namedFirst-team All-ACCas a kick returner in 2004.
• Earl Littlewas a safety for the Hurricanes who was signed as an undrafted free agent in 1997. Specific national or conference-wide college accolades are not widely listed for him; however, he was a defensive back for the program. (Note: His son, Earl Little Jr., played for Alabama and FSU.
• Rodney Bellingerwas a defensive back who was a key member of the Hurricanes' firstNational Championshipteam in 1983. He also earnedSecond-team All-South Independenthonors in 1983.
• Phillip Dorsettwas a speedy wide receiver who was namedSecond-team All-ACCin 2014 after recording 36 receptions for 871 yards (a remarkable 24.2 yards per reception average) and 10 touchdowns in his senior season. He finished his career with 2,132 receiving yards.
• Najeh Davenportwas a versatile running back and offensive captain who was a member of the2001 BCS National Championshipteam. He rushed for 830 yards and 13 touchdowns in his career and won the team's Unsung Hero Award in 2001 for his dedication.

1. Deshaun Watson (Clemson):Widely considered the best #4 ever, he led the Tigers to a National Championship with incredible stats and clutch performances.
2. Jeremiyah Loveof Notre Dame is a close second. Love collected plenty of hardware, including the Doak Walker Award and All-American accolades, and helped the Irish reach the National Championship game in the 2024 season, where they fell to Ohio State.
3. Terrence Newman’s dominance and accolades in the backend of the Kansas State secondary earn him the second spot among all-time number 4s.
4. Dalvin Cookedges out others for this spot due to his record-breaking performances and game-changing ability.
5. Champ Baileyclaimed his place among the top 4 through his versatility and impact on both sides of the ball.

Whether delivering a game-winning pass, breaking tackles on a run, or shutting down an opposing receiver, the top four—Deshaun Watson, Terence Newman, Dalvin Cook, and Champ Bailey—demonstrated why the number 4 holds such weight in college football lore. Their impact went beyond statistics—they were cultural icons, record-breakers, and pillars of championship teams. As new players step onto the field, only time will tell who is worthy to join this elite group, but the standard set by these athletes remains the benchmark for greatness.

Special thanks to the following sources: Sports-reference.com, Fox-Sports.com, NCAA.com, State of the U, One Foot Down, Tide1009.com

Join us at the Pigskin Dispatch website to see even more Positive football news!

Don't forget to check out and subscribe to the Pigskin Dispatch YouTube channel for additional content and the regular Football History Minute Shorts.

Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well don't, because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.

Mentioned in this episode:

Sports History Theme Song

This theme song was produced by Ron "Tyke" Oliver of Music Meets Sportz

This episode delves into the profound impact that pivotal mistakes in American football can have on players' lives, both on and off the field. We examine several notable blunders throughout history, including a heartbreaking moment involving the Baltimore Ravens' rookie kicker, whose misstep in a critical playoff game underscores the immense pressure faced by athletes. The narrative extends to a historical account from 1905, where a young player, Denny Clark, suffered devastating consequences after a game-changing error that ultimately led to his tragic demise decades later. Through this exploration, we seek to illuminate the psychological ramifications of such high-stakes moments and the importance of support systems for athletes navigating these challenges. We aim to foster a deeper understanding of the human element within the realm of competitive sports, emphasizing that while the stakes are high, the players are ultimately human and deserving of compassion and encouragement.

Join us at the Pigskin Dispatch website to see even more Positive football news!

Don't forget to check out and subscribe to the Pigskin Dispatch YouTube channel for additional content and the regular Football History Minute Shorts.

Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well don't, because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.

Mentioned in this episode:

Sports History Theme Song

This theme song was produced by Ron "Tyke" Oliver of Music Meets Sportz

The primary focus of this podcast episode is to delve into the illustrious history of the 1918 Naval Station Great Lakes Blue Jackets football team and its significant impact on the early development of professional football in the United States. As the backdrop of World War I unfolded, military bases across the nation began cultivating sports teams, with the Great Lakes Naval Station emerging as a particularly noteworthy example. Our guest, Dan Charesta, elucidates the compelling narrative surrounding this team, highlighting its connections to iconic figures such as George Halas and its role in the formation of the National Football League. Through a series of insightful discussions, we explore the intricate interplay between military service and sports, revealing how the fervor of service football helped galvanize a national passion for the game. We invite you to join us as we uncover the historical significance of this team and the legacy it left on American football.

Join us at the Pigskin Dispatch website to see even more Positive football news!

Don't forget to check out and subscribe to the Pigskin Dispatch YouTube channel for additional content and the regular Football History Minute Shorts.

Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well don't, because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.

Mentioned in this episode:

Sports History Theme Song

This theme song was produced by Ron "Tyke" Oliver of Music Meets Sportz

Darin and Ed closed out the regular season with a dramatic Week 18 and are now diving into their picks for the six matchups of Super Wild Card Weekend! But first let's look at the teams not in the playoffs...

The NFL playoffs are finally here! Wild Card Weekend is set, and while the excitement builds for the teams competing, our hosts Darin Hayes and Ed Kleese took one final look back at the regular season to assess the teams that didn't make the cut.

In a spirited segment on the Pig Pen, Ed unveiled his Reverse Power Rankings—a prediction of the 18 non-playoff teams ranked by their likelihood of making the postseason by 2026.

Here’s a breakdown of the teams most likely to bounce back... and the ones that might be grounded for a while.

Ed’s rankings are not about the next five years; they are solely focused on the immediate future: How confident are we that this team can be in the playoffs by the 2026 season? (Note: Ed used 2026, which in the context of the transcript meant "next year" or "in two years").

Starting at the bottom, the future looks bleakest for a few franchises:

1. #18 New York Jets:Darin noted this Jet has been "grounded for a while." Ed sees a mess on the field, especially given the coaching issues, making them the least likely to turn things around quickly.
2. #17 Arizona Cardinals & #16 Tennessee Titans:Both teams face massive organizational turnover (coaching and likely quarterback changes), tough divisions, and a lack of strong roster depth.

This group is filled with teams that could just as easily be 6-11 as 9-8:

1. #15 Cleveland Browns:Despite a strong defense, their offensive uncertainty (due to the Deshaun Watson contract situation) keeps them firmly in the middle. Ed summed it up: "They're the Browns."
2. #14 Tampa Bay Buccaneers:This window feels like it's closing. Ed noted that after an early MVP conversation, Baker Mayfield settled back into his "average" cycle, and the overall roster talent isn't inspiring.
3. #12 Las Vegas Raiders:Surprisingly high on Ed’s list, he cited the addition of the first overall draft pick and the "ultimate winner" presence of the Tom Brady connection. Darin immediately disagreed, arguing they should be much lower, believing one player won't fix the underlying issues.
4. #11 Atlanta Falcons:The definition of "No Man's Land." The firing of Raheem Morris was shocking, especially since they were close to winning the division. However, Ed defended the move, citing poor clock management and a tendency to lose close games.

These teams have the foundational pieces—whether it’s a coach, a quarterback, or cap space—to compete immediately.

1. #10 New Orleans Saints:They finished the year strong, and with a first-year coach and a defense that improved, the foundation is set for a rise.
2. #9 Indianapolis Colts:Their season ended disappointingly, and the question marks surrounding Daniel Jones' Achilles injury dampen their outlook, forcing them to find another starting quarterback (likely Anthony Richardson or Riley Leonard) for the start of the next season.
3. #8 Baltimore Ravens & #7 Cincinnati Bengals:The AFC North is complicated. Ed believes the Ravens are heading for a shake-up after moving on from Harbaugh, potentially leading to a "player dumping" and rebuild. The Bengals, despite their trenches being "in shambles," have the offensive core in Joe Burrow to bounce back quickly if the front office invests wisely.

The top tier includes the teams with the highest potential for a dramatic turnaround, proving that dropping out of the playoffs sometimes just means you were unlucky.

Rank

Team

Rationale

Darin/Ed Insight

#6

New York Giants

Ed predicts a potential "Patriot-like turnaround." Despite a 4-13 finish, they blew several winnable games. With a top-five pick and young talent like Malik Neighbors, they have the prestige and structure to attract a great new coach.

Darin wants Kevin Stefanski for his ability to handle young QBs and strong coordinator picks.

#5

Washington Commanders

Their ranking is based on the strong quarterback/offensive line situation. If Jayden Daniels can stay healthy, and if the new regime (like Dan Quinn) shifts to a slightly more traditional offense to protect him, they could easily jump back into the 9-11 win range.

Darin fears the dreaded "RG3 syndrome" due to Daniels' running style and injury risk.

#4

Dallas Cowboys

"This is just where they always are." The floor is high. Barring massive catastrophe, they are guaranteed to be in the mix for 8 to 10 wins, making them a perennial Wild Card contender.

Darin worries about their salary cap situation, with so much invested in a few players and looming contracts (like CD Lamb/George Pickens).

#3

Detroit Lions

They need better health luck (especially in the secondary and on the offensive line). The talent remains, and quarterback Jared Goff is a solid signal-caller. A few smart moves on defense and the O-line will put them right back in the thick of things.

They need to address their defensive and offensive line "shambles" to protect Goff and free up the running game.

#2

Kansas City Chiefs

A classic case of deferring to greatness. As long as Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes are there, they have a chance. Ed assumes the organization will make the necessary personnel changes to help Mahomes, chalking this season up as a transition year.

Darin is skeptical, citing the AFC West's rising competitiveness (Denver, LA) which could make their path back difficult.

#1

Minnesota Vikings

Ed's Strongest Prediction: Ed believes Minnesota was the best team in the NFL this year that didn’t make the playoffs. Their defense was arguably the best in the league by the end of the year, but the quarterback situation was a "nightmare." With Kevin O'Connell as a great coach, Ed confidently stated: "Minnesota Vikings will be in the playoffs in 2026."

Finally, after a roller-coaster season that saw the lead change multiple times, Darin clinched the regular-season pick title by a hair!

Final Regular Season Score:

1. Darin Hayes: 85
2. Ed Kleese: 84

With the regular season settled, the attention now turns to the Wild Card matchups! Be sure to tune in for our full breakdown and predictions for the NFL Playoffs!

Jets fans, maybe fast forward to 2027... or 2047.

For the playoffs, each host picks the winner of the game (1 point) and offers one bold prediction (1 point). A maximum of 2 points is available per person per game, totaling 12 potential points for the week.

Matchup

Pick

Host

Bold Prediction

Rams at Panthers (Sat PM)

Rams

Ed

Rams win by 13 or more. (Total Chalk)

Rams

Darin

LA is going +2 in the turnover department.

Packers at Bears (Sat Night)

Packers (Upset)

Ed

Packers hit a field goal with 60 seconds or less or overtime to win.

Bears

Darin

Caleb to Roma Duzay connection results in two touchdowns.

Matchup

Pick

Host

Bold Prediction

Bills at Jaguars (Sun Early)

Bills

Ed

Josh Allen magic with four or more combined touchdowns.

Bills

Darin

Both Trevor Lawrence and Josh Allen will score at least one rushing and one passing touchdown.

49ers at Eagles (Sun Mid)

49ers (Upset)

Ed

Christian McCaffrey to have 125 or more combined yards.

49ers

Darin

Purdy will finish the game with a 100+ QBR.

Chargers at Patriots (Sun Night)

Chargers (Upset)

Ed

Justin Herbert wins it for the Chargers by outplaying May.

Patriots

Darin

Drake May for four scores in this game.

Matchup

Pick

Host

Bold Prediction

Steelers at Texans (Mon Night)

Texans

Ed

Texans defense holds the Steelers to 17 or fewer points.

Steelers (Homer Pick)

Darin

A Boswell kick is going to make the difference in this game.

Darin survived a "heart attack" watching the end of the Ravens game and is looking forward to the eight games on tap this weekend. Ed wishes the Steelers luck, despite picking against them!

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Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well don't, because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.

Tim's original Tidbit was the basis of this discussion titled: Before Uniforms Were Uniform - https://www.footballarchaeology.com/p/todays-tidbit-before-uniforms-were

When you watch a football game today, one of the first things that captures your attention is the perfect, spectacular array of colors and matching uniforms. Every player is perfectly dressed to script, creating an immediate visual identity for the team. But travel back a century, before the roar of World War I, and this uniformity simply didn't exist.

We recently had the pleasure of speaking with football historian Timothy P. Brown of footballarchaeology.com to explore this forgotten chapter of the game, which he calls the era “Before Uniforms Were Uniform.”

Brown highlights that the contrast between then and now largely boils down to socio-economic circumstances. A hundred years ago, wealth and possessions were scarce. Many people owned one nice suit and a set of work clothes. This financial reality transferred directly onto the gridiron. While elite programs like Harvard and Yale could afford to outfit their players in matching red or blue stocking caps and hose, the reality for the majority of teams was drastically different.

Especially in small towns, the high school team was often just a group of kids coached by a faculty member. The school itself provided no equipment or uniforms. Instead, players were responsible for supplying their own gear—if you brought your own pencil to school, you brought your own jersey to the game.

The resulting team photos from this era are a historian’s delight. They show players wearing a disparate collection of hand-me-down pants, mismatched sweaters, borrowed nose guards, and even crude, homemade shoulder pads sewn right onto the exterior of a jersey. If the school color was red, a player might borrow a brother’s red sweater, but the goal of uniformity was often an impossible standard to meet.

This lack of standardization wasn't limited to small-town football. Even major programs struggled. Brown cites a 1916 Ohio State team photo where some players wore the "cool new" friction-strip jerseys, while second and third-stringers sported the old, non-matching gear. Budgets simply didn't allow for an entire inventory replacement all at once.

This extended to early professional football as well. It was common for players on teams like the Franklin All-Stars to simply wear their college sweaters—adorned with the logos of their alma maters—to professional games. The idea of distinct home and away jerseys also didn't take hold until the 1950s, when the rise of black-and-white television forced teams to adopt contrasting colors so viewers could tell them apart.

Today, we take perfectly matched uniforms for granted, but reflecting on this era offers a profound appreciation for the players of yesteryear. They were a generation that played hard with the little they had, demonstrating grit that truly cemented their place in football history.

To explore more fascinating tidbits and forgotten history of the gridiron, visit Timothy P. Brown’s work at footballarchaeology.com.

Join us at the Pigskin Dispatch website to see even more Positive football news!

Don't forget to check out and subscribe to the Pigskin Dispatch YouTube channel for additional content and the regular Football History Minute Shorts.

Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well don't, because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.

Mentioned in this episode:

Sports History Theme Song

This theme song was produced by Ron "Tyke" Oliver of Music Meets Sportz

This episode delves into the intricate and esteemed history of college football jersey number three, highlighting its significance and the illustrious players who have donned it throughout the years. We examine the profound legacy of the number, with particular emphasis on the traditions of various collegiate programs, including the memorialization of Abraham Reinhart at Utah Tech and the retirement of Wayne Chrebet's jersey at Hofstra University. Furthermore, we explore the remarkable achievements of notable athletes such as Joe Montana and Carson Palmer, whose contributions to the sport have solidified their places in football history. As we traverse through these narratives, we invite our listeners to participate in the discussion by sharing their insights and suggestions regarding players who merit recognition. Ultimately, we aim to celebrate the dynamic legacy of this iconic jersey number and its continuing evolution in the realm of college football.

Join us at the Pigskin Dispatch website to see even more Positive football news!

Don't forget to check out and subscribe to the Pigskin Dispatch YouTube channel for additional content and the regular Football History Minute Shorts.

Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well don't, because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.

Mentioned in this episode:

Sports History Theme Song

This theme song was produced by Ron "Tyke" Oliver of Music Meets Sportz

The current discourse centers on the notable outcomes of the second round of the College Football Playoffs for the 2025-2026 season, particularly emphasizing the alarming trend regarding teams that receive first-round byes. It has been observed that, in a strikingly similar pattern to the previous year, a majority of these teams have succumbed to defeat in their subsequent matchups, raising pertinent questions about the efficacy of the bye week as a strategic advantage. Specifically, we find that seven out of eight teams granted byes over the past two years have been eliminated in their first games of the playoffs, suggesting a potential correlation between extended periods of inactivity and diminished competitive performance. This episode delves into the ramifications of such trends, drawing a comparative analysis with the National Football League, where teams with byes have historically fared significantly better. We shall explore the implications of these findings and consider prospective adjustments that could be implemented to enhance the preparedness of teams entering the playoffs.

Join us at the Pigskin Dispatch website to see even more Positive football news!

Don't forget to check out and subscribe to the Pigskin Dispatch YouTube channel for additional content and the regular Football History Minute Shorts.

Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well don't, because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.

The recent culmination of the second round of the College Football Playoffs for the 2025-2026 season has elicited a plethora of intriguing statistics and narratives worthy of examination. This discussion centers on the performance of teams that received first-round byes, particularly in light of the historical context surrounding such advantages. In the past two seasons under the newly instituted 12-team playoff format, a troubling trend has emerged: teams afforded the luxury of a bye have consistently faltered in their subsequent matchups, leading to a significant 7 out of 8 losses among those granted this respite. The implications of this trend provoke critical questions regarding the readiness and competitive edge of teams following extended periods of inactivity. Additionally, the episode delves into a particularly unusual play from the Reliaquest Bowl, wherein a punter's infractions underscored the complexities and nuances of college football rules, illustrating the fine line between strategic innovation and adherence to regulation. Through these discussions, we aim to illuminate the multifaceted nature of college football dynamics, particularly as they relate to playoff performance and the evolving strategies employed by teams.

Darin Hayes welcomed listeners back to the "Pig Pen" at Pigskin Dispatch, the official portal for football history, to set the stage for the final week of the National Football League season. Joined by co-host Ed Kleese, the episode focused on the tradition of their weekly "big bowl predictions" and a look back at a truly bizarre NFL season. After a quick check-in on the weather (Darin is facing a blizzard in the Great Lakes; Ed is enjoying an overcast but warm location), the hosts dove into the meat of Week 17's results.

Ed opened the discussion on Week 17 by calling the entire 2024 NFL season "weird." He argued that while fans claim they want parity, this year features too many "flawed" teams that could potentially win the Super Bowl—perhaps 10 to 12 teams—which feels "off" compared to dominant dynasties of past eras (like the 70s Steelers, Dolphins, and Raiders).

Darin countered, arguing that the unpredictability creates "spice," keeps more fan bases engaged, and confuses oddsmakers. Both hosts agreed that teams like the Eagles appear "fraudulent" this year, but the open field makes every playoff game matter.

After 17 weeks of predictions, Darin and Ed have arrived at a spectacular and unexpected dead heat, ensuring that Week 18 will serve as the ultimate tiebreaker.

Darin Hayes

6 Points

78 Points

Successfully pegged the Seahawks victory over the Panthers (2 pts) and correctly predicted the low-scoring nature of the Eagles/Bills game (2 pts). He also gained points for the Texans and 49ers wins.

Ed Kleese

5 Points

78 Points

Also secured a win on the Seahawks game (2 pts) and earned 2 points for correctly picking the Browns win over the Steelers. Ed acknowledged he was wrong about the Rams rolling the Falcons and his "Christmas sweep" prediction.

The Score: Darin 78, Ed 78. The hosts are perfectly tied entering the final week!

With everything on the line, the hosts offered their picks for the critical games in Week 18, setting up a head-to-head battle to claim bragging rights for the regular season.

This matchup features two teams out of the playoff hunt, but both analysts agreed the game holds significant individual narratives.

The Storylines:

• Myles Garrett’s Record Chase:Browns defensive end Myles Garrett is seeking one final sack to potentially break the single-season record currently held by T.J. Watt and Michael Strahan. Darin believes the Browns will be actively playing to help Garrett achieve this milestone.
• Joe Burrow's Future:Darin brought up media speculation that Joe Burrow may be growing dissatisfied with the Bengals organization, adding a layer of uncertainty to his performance in a seemingly meaningless game. Ed, however, strongly dismissed this, arguing that Burrow is under contract and elite quarterbacks rarely get traded.

The Prediction:

• Darin's Pick:Bengals Win(with a caveat that Myles Garrett gets his record sack).
• Ed's Stance:Agrees Garrett likely gets the record, but doesn't see Burrow leaving Cincinnati.

This game, while not guaranteeing a division title for the Texans, allows them to finish their strong regular season with momentum.

The Storylines:

• Texans Finishing Strong:Both analysts agreed that the Texans are playing excellent football and will look to put an exclamation point on their season.
• Playoff Implications:While a division win would require a long-shot scenario (Titans beating the Jaguars), the Texans were expected to play hard regardless.

The Prediction:

• Darin & Ed's Pick:Texans Wineasily, potentially blowing out the Colts.

A classic NFC North rivalry provides the backdrop for a game with significant playoff seeding implications, particularly for the Bears.

The Storylines:

• Rivalry and Revenge:Darin expects the Lions to be "vengeful" and take out their frustrations on their arch-rivals, the Bears.
• NFC Seeding:Ed argued that the Bears have a major incentive to win: securing the two-seed to guarantee a home game against the Packers, which the Bears would prefer over facing the Rams on the road in the playoffs. Despite the incentive, Ed still believes the outcome is inevitable.

The Prediction:

• Darin & Ed's Pick:Lions Win.

In what was deemed the "last pick of the regular season," both analysts aligned on a crucial AFC North battle with major playoff implications.

The Storylines:

• Playoff Push & Motivation:Darin embraced a slight "conspiracy theory," suggesting the NFL might want the Aaron Rodgers-led Steelers in the playoffs for the ratings boost.
• Injury and Rest:The status of Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (and other key players) was a major factor, with the assumption being that Baltimore would rest starters or play conservatively given their secure playoff position.
• Run Defense:Darin highlighted the Steelers’ improving run defense and the memory of getting "run over" by the Ravens in previous matchups.

The Prediction:

• Darin & Ed's Pick:Steelers Win.
• Darin's Specific Addendum:The Steelers defense will hold Ravens star running back Derrick Henry to 80 yards or less.

With several head-to-head agreements, the final results of Week 18 will determine who enters the postseason competition with the lead in the analysts' ongoing prediction contest.

Join us at the Pigskin Dispatch website to see even more Positive football news!

Don't forget to check out and subscribe to the Pigskin Dispatch YouTube channel for additional content and the regular Football History Minute Shorts.

Miss our football by the day of the year podcasts, well don't, because they can still be found at the Pigskin Dispatch website.

Mentioned in this episode:

Sports History Theme Song

This theme song was produced by Ron "Tyke" Oliver of Music Meets Sportz