Sports History Network

The NFL season is winding down, and the stakes for the "Big Bold Predictions" segment are higher than ever. Darin Hayes and Ed Kleese met to review a highly dramatic Week 16, which featured incredible comebacks, upsets, and holiday chaos, before gearing up for Week 17.

Darin had a strong performance, netting 5 points, primarily due to correctly calling the close, high-stakes victory for the Seahawks over the Rams and, more impressively, the Bears upsetting the Packers. Darin earned high praise for predicting Caleb Williams would lead the Bears to a late-game win, which he did via an incredible overtime touchdown after a muffed onside kick.

Ed, unfortunately, only secured 2 points for the week, which came entirely from also picking the Seahawks. He missed on the Bears and the Patriots upsetting the Ravens (a one-point partial credit for Darin). Both hosts expressed disappointment over the Colts' defense failing to back up Philip Rivers' valiant "Disney story" effort to upset the 49ers.

The scoring left Darin leading with 77 total points to Ed’s 74 as they moved into the final two weeks of the regular season.

The review concluded with a deep dive into the controversial final play of the Lions-Steelers game, where an offensive pass interference call on Amon-Ra St. Brown nullified a dramatic, potential game-winning lateral. The main focus, however, quickly shifted to the upcoming holiday schedule.

Ed expressed anxiety about his team, the Commanders, playing the Cowboys on Christmas Day. Stating that he has “matured,” Ed claimed he would ignore the noon kick-off to focus on family, a statement Darin immediately declared his first Bold Prediction for the week: "Your family’s going to call BS on this and you will be caught."

The hosts transitioned to making their official Week 17 game picks. However, the discussion ended immediately after Darin's non-game prediction about Ed’s impending holiday conflict. The suspense hangs in the air: who will gain ground in the final week of the fantasy regular season? We await the actual game-by-game predictions from Darin and Ed that will determine their final standings.

The NFL playoff picture is tightening, and with high-stakes games dominating the schedule, our analysts, Ed Kleese and Darin Hayes, are stepping out with some truly aggressive predictions for Week 17. From packaged Christmas Day favorites to huge underdog victories, here is a breakdown of their boldest calls, which they are betting points on.

Ed is betting heavily on the favorites to handle their business against injury-riddled teams, particularly on the holiday schedule.

1. Christmas Day Chalk:Ed packaged his first pick, wagering thatall three heavy favoriteson Christmas Day—the Cowboys, the Lions, and the Broncos—will win their respective matchups easily against opponents using backup or third-string quarterbacks.
2. Seahawks Roll the Panthers:He predicts that the Seattle Seahawks will have a comfortable road trip, beating the Carolina Panthersby 10 points or moreas they fight desperately to secure their spot in the NFC West race.
3. Browns knock off Steelers
4. Niners Dominance: On Sunday Night Football, Ed sees the 49ers, motivated by divisional title aspirations, defeating the Bearsby 7 points or more, signaling that the 49ers are heating up at the perfect time.
5. Rams win big over Falcons

Darin is looking beyond the obvious matchups, selecting three distinct high-leverage games where specific conditions must be met for him to earn his points.

1. Texans Deliver Massive Upset:Darin’s boldest call is on Saturday: he picks the Houston Texans to defeat the Chargersby 10 points or more. This is a massive endorsement of the Texans' defense and pass rush, and a major knock on the Chargers' consistency.
2. Seahawks’ Defensive Stranglehold:While he agrees with Ed on the Seattle winner, Darin adds a caveat: the Seahawks will defeat the Panthers while holding Carolina to20 points or less.
3. Bills Win, Total Stays Low:In a potential Super Bowl preview, Darin picks the Buffalo Bills to host the Philadelphia Eagles and win. His critical caveat is on the scoring: he predicts the total points scored in the game will beunder 44, based on both defenses rising to the occasion.
4. Niners roll the Bears as the San Fran Defense accounts for 3 turnovers
5. Green Bay Grinches: Packers put the Ravens out of playoff contention

With both Ed and Darin taking massive swings—Ed with his Christmas Day package and double-digit margins, and Darin with his underdog victories and defensive caveats—Week 17 is set up to be a true battleground for their prediction supremacy. Will the favorites cruise as Ed expects, or will Darin's faith in defensive upsets pay off?

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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.

For this Christmas week episode, we're re-airing Episode 177 from January 2, 2024. We had done a redux of our very first episode, telling the story of basketball's first game, and if you missed it then, this is our present to you now! From all of us here at BBH.101, we wish you a very merry Christmas!

CREDITS

Rick Loayza: Head researcher, writer, and voice

Jacob Loayza: Editor, producer, and publisher

MUSIC

"The Stars and Stripes Forever" by John Philip Sousa

"Horizons" by Roa

SPORTS HISTORY NETWORK

sportshistorynetwork.com

sportshistorynetwork.com/podcasts/basketball-history-101/

FACEBOOK

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BUSINESS CONTACT

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Yesterday's Sports is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Sports Yesteryear.

YESTERDAY'S SPORTS HOME PAGE

EPISODE SUMMARY

Monday Night Football (Part 1) - Mark and Dave Relive The Early Days of Monday Night Football

YESTERDAY'S SPORTS BACKGROUND

Host Mark Morthier grew up in New Jersey just across the river from New York City during the 1970s, a great time for sports in the area. He relives great moments from this time and beyond, focusing on football, baseball, basketball, and boxing. You may even see a little Olympic Weightlifting in the mix, as Mark competed for eight years. See Mark's book below.

No Nonsense, Old School Weight Training: A Guide For People With Limited Time

Running Wild: (Growing Up In The 1970s)

In 1972, Pittsburgh running back Franco Harris caught a ricocheted ball and ran in the game winning touchdown. Many questions surround that play to this day.

In 1982, NAIA school Chaminade beat top-ranked Virginia in one of the greatest upsets of all-time.

In 1962, the Dallas Texans beat George Blanda and the Houston Oilers in the AFL Championship game.

Back in 1972, Dallas Cowboys QB Roger Staubach came on in relief to lead the Cowboys to a come back win over San Francisco.

This podcast episode delves into the historical significance of the 1921 San Diego East West Christmas Classic, an intriguing yet ephemeral football game that epitomizes the intersection of sport and holiday spirit. We engage with Timothy P. Brown from FootballArchaeology.com, who elucidates the context surrounding this unique event, which featured Center College, known as the Praying Colonels, facing off against a then lesser-known Arizona team. Despite inclement weather that plagued the days preceding the game, leading to a lackluster crowd and challenging playing conditions, the Praying Colonels emerged victorious with a decisive score of 35 to 0. The narrative not only highlights the athletic prowess of the players involved, particularly the notable quarterback Bo McMillan, but also offers a glimpse into the historical landscape of college football during the early 1920s. Join us as we explore this captivating tale that enriches our understanding of football's storied past during the festive season.

In the 1920s, cities across America tried to launch their own annual bowl games, hoping to replicate the success of the Rose Bowl. One such event was the short-lived San Diego East-West Christmas Classic, which ran for just two years. The 1921 edition featured one of the most remarkable small-college teams in history: the Centre College Praying Colonels, who traveled west to face the University of Arizona Wildcats. This was no ordinary contest; it was a battle against the elements and an insurance policy.

Center College, a tiny institution with only 247 students, boasted a legendary season leading up to the holiday clash. Coached by Charlie Moran and led by star quarterback Bo McMillan, the Praying Colonels were 9-0, having earned national renown by slaying giants like Clemson, Virginia Tech, Auburn, and, most famously, the undefeated Harvard Crimson. They arrived in San Diego expected to dominate, but the weather had other ideas.

The usually sunny city was drenched. It had rained for eight straight days before Christmas Day, and the rain continued to fall right through kickoff. The playing field at Balboa Stadium was a swamp, with standing water turning the event into a muddy mess. Attendance was predictably sparse—a disaster for the promoters.

The organizers, however, had foresight and insured the game against poor weather. The catch? They could only collect the insurance payout if they actually played the game. Thus, the classic went on, not for the fans, but for the balance sheet. Center College, unfazed by the conditions, showcased their class. McMillan guided his team through the slop, leading the Colonels to a decisive 35-0 victory. The high score was remarkable, especially considering the waterlogged ball made the kicking game virtually impossible.

While the San Diego Christmas Classic failed to survive past 1922 (when West Virginia beat Gonzaga), the 1921 edition is a testament to the grit and determination of a small-college powerhouse. It perfectly encapsulates the early, often chaotic days of college football, where an incredible team, a soaking field, and an insurance claim converged to create a unique holiday memory. The game is forever tied to the legend of Bo McMillan and the last great chapter of the Praying Colonels' dynasty.

This is based on Tim Brown's original Tidbit titled: The 1921 San Diego East-West Christmas Classic

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.

In 1982, Wayne Gretzky got in one of only his three career fights.

In 1969, Pete Maravich got 3 techs in a physical game vs. Oregon State. He shot 31 free throws and made 30 of them.

In 1915, the Federal League ended its short-lived run as a competitor to the American and National Leagues.

In 1996, Brett Hull scored his 500th career goal. He and his father Bobby became the only father/son duo to score 500+ goals.

In 1956, Bill Russell made his debut as a Boston Celtic after leading the US to a Gold Medal in the Olympics.

An exploration of the illustrious history surrounding college football players who have donned the coveted number one jersey reveals a tapestry woven with remarkable talent and excellence. This discussion delves into the significance of this number across various prestigious institutions, where it is often reserved for those players who epitomize the highest standards of athletic prowess and leadership. We examine the traditions upheld by schools such as the Temple Owls and NC State Wolfpack, which assign the number one to individuals displaying exceptional work ethic and tenacity, thereby setting a benchmark for their peers. Notably, this episode serves as the inauguration of a series dedicated to chronicling the history of college football jersey numbers, with a particular focus on number one, laying the groundwork for a comprehensive exploration of all jerseys in the coming year.

Transitioning from institutional practices, we embark on a retrospective journey, highlighting contemporary athletes who have made indelible marks while wearing the number one. The likes of Kaden Fordham and Skyler Bell are celebrated for their outstanding contributions in the recent 2025 season, demonstrating the ongoing legacy of excellence associated with this number. Furthermore, we delve into a historical perspective, paying homage to legendary figures such as Anthony Carter and Larry Fitzgerald, whose achievements have set the standard for success in college football. This reflective analysis not only honors past icons but also inspires current and future generations of athletes who aspire to embody the spirit of the number one jersey.

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.

In 1984, BYU beat a 6-5 Michigan team in the Holiday Bowl to finish the year as the only undefeated team in Division I-A. But they didn't really beat anybody and an error filled win over an average Wolverine team had many questioning if the Cougars deserved to be crowned National Champions.

In 2003, the New Orleans Saints scored on a final second, lateral filled play but John Carney missed the game tying PAT and the Saints lost and missed out on the playoffs.

In 1891, James Naismith divided a group of 18 boys into two teams of 9 players and played the world's first game of Basketball.

In 1981, Cincinnati and Bradley played in a 7 OT thriller in the longest collegiate basketball.

This Day In Sports History is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Your Favorite Sport's Yesteryear.

EPISODE SUMMARY

"FILL THE EPISODE NOTES IN HERE"...

THIS DAY IN SPORTS BACKGROUND

Relive the greatest moments in sports every day of the year. From the triumphs to the tragedies, the first to do it to the last time it happened, the unbelievable to the strange, This Day in Sports History is a 365-day journey remembering those significant events that made a lasting impact.

In 1971, Tennessee benefitted from two controversial calls made by an SEC ref to beat Arkansas (then in the SWC) in the Liberty Bowl. A rule change followed this game to prevent officials from calling a post-season bowl game with an affiliated league team.

In 1980, NBC experimented with showing an NFL game with no announcers.

In 2003, Joe Namath expressed his desire to kiss ESPN's Suzy Kolber during an interview of a Jets/Patriots game.

In 1996, 3-time Indy 500 winner Bobby Unser and a friend got lost in a blizzard and stranded for two days in New Mexico while snowmobiling.

In 2005, Kobe Bryant outscored the Dallas Mavericks through 3 quarters.

In 1981, the Winnipeg Jets’ Doug Smail scored a goal in five seconds. His goal equaled the mark set by the Merlyn Phillips of the Montreal Maroons in 1923. It's been done twice since.

EPISODE SUMMARY

On their first episode of The Mixtape, Scott and Derek look back at the historic Mike Tyson vs Buster Douglas fight in February 1990, one of the biggest upsets in '90s sports history. They discuss the wheels-off HBO broadcast, what made the 9th round one of the best 3 minutes ever in boxing, and come away with a newfound appreciation for Buster’s historic achievement.

THE MIXTAPE BACKGROUND

Step into the time machine with hosts Scott and Derek as they dissect the most electrifying decade in sports history.

90s Sports Mixtape is your weekly deep dive into the era that gave us legendary dynasties, iconic athletes, and unforgettable controversies. Each episode explores the stories behind the headline, from championship runs to shocking scandals, from breakthrough moments to career-defining performances.

Each week on 90s Sports Mixtape, this Texas duo will break down the championships, controversies, and cultural moments that made the '90s unforgettable. Whether it's Jordan's Bulls, Aikman’s Cowboys, or the Trial of the Century of OJ Simpson, no topic is off limits.

Expect deep dives, hot takes, and the kind of passionate arguments that can only come from two friends who've been rehashing these debates for decades.

Subscribe now and relive the glory of the decade that changed sports forever.

HOSTS - SCOTT & DEREK

Scott and Derek first met at Blockbuster Video in college bonding over their shared love of The Big Lebowski. But during those long minimum-wage shifts stacking copies of Armageddon, they quickly found out they had a deeper affection for sports of their childhood and the players and teams they idolized.

From Pete Rose to Nolan Ryan, Larry Bird to Hakeem Olajuwon, these two Texans have spent countless hours debating the top players and thrilling moments from their favorite decade of sports, making them the ideal hosts of The Mixtape: 90s Sports Edition.

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The historic confrontation between Mike Tyson and Buster Douglas on February 11, 1990, stands as one of the most significant upsets in the annals of sports history. In this inaugural episode of The Mixtape, I, alongside my co-host Derek, meticulously dissect the tumultuous events of that fateful day in Tokyo, wherein Douglas, a 42-to-1 underdog, defied all odds to achieve an unparalleled victory over the seemingly invincible Tyson. We delve into the chaotic HBO broadcast, highlighting the extraordinary ninth round, which is universally acclaimed as one of the finest three minutes in boxing history. Our discussion transcends mere statistics, as we cultivate a profound appreciation for Douglas's monumental accomplishment and the myriad factors that influenced this remarkable contest. Thus, we embark upon an exploration of the complexities surrounding these two iconic figures, ultimately illuminating the fight's enduring legacy in the realm of sports.

The Mixtape: 90s Sports Edition is part of the Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Sports Yesteryear.

The Mixtape: 90s Sports Edition Home Page

The Mixtape's inaugural episode embarks on a nostalgic journey into the annals of sports history, specifically focusing on the monumental clash between Mike Tyson and Buster Douglas that transpired on February 11, 1990. This fight, heralded as one of the most significant upsets in the realm of boxing, serves as a fulcrum for a broader discussion on the dynamics of expectation versus reality in sports. Scott and Derek meticulously set the scene, detailing the chaotic atmosphere surrounding the HBO broadcast, which was rife with a palpable sense of disbelief as Tyson, the overwhelming favorite, faced an unexpected challenge from the underdog Douglas. Through their analysis, they highlight the psychological and physical preparations of both fighters, delving into Tyson's perceived apathy and Douglas's resolute determination following the recent loss of his mother, which profoundly influenced his performance. The episode's narrative flows seamlessly, capturing the essence of this historic bout while providing a profound appreciation for Douglas's resilience and tenacity in the face of overwhelming odds.

Takeaways:

1. The historic fight between Mike Tyson and Buster Douglas on February 11, 1990, marked one of the most significant upsets in sports history, showcasing the unpredictable nature of boxing.
2. The ninth round of the fight is often regarded as a pinnacle moment in boxing, featuring three minutes of intense action that captivated fans and demonstrated Buster Douglas's remarkable skill.
3. The HBO broadcast of the fight, described as chaotic, added to the lore of the event, illustrating how expectations can dramatically shift in the world of sports broadcasting.
4. Buster Douglas's victory was influenced by personal tragedy, specifically the death of his mother, which provided him with a profound motivation beyond mere competition.
5. The discussion highlighted the complexities of Tyson's mental state leading into the match, as he appeared disengaged and unprepared, raising questions about his focus and commitment during that period.
6. The episode emphasizes the importance of context in sports, as it not only recounts the fight but also delves into the personal stories of both fighters, illustrating how their backgrounds and experiences shaped the outcome.