Welcome back to The Thursday Report with Ewan, Will, and Alex. This week, the guys cover a packed lineup of sports stories, including the Packers’ embarrassing loss to the Falcons, Marvin Harrison Jr.’s disappointing start in Arizona, the Edmonton Oilers’ upcoming season, the Edmonton Elks’ wild CFL matchup, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s controversial comments. The episode opens with a quick introduction from Ewan, who explains the schedule change and sets up an episode filled with NFL, NHL, CFL, and MLB discussion. The NFL conversation begins with the Atlanta Falcons’ dominant 35–14 win over the Green Bay Packers. The guys break down Bijan Robinson’s huge rushing performance, Drake London’s monster receiving game, Atlanta’s ability to control the line of scrimmage, and Green Bay’s shocking lack of a rushing attack. They also debate whether Jordan Love is good enough to lead the Packers to a Super Bowl, whether Matt LaFleur should keep his job, and how difficult Green Bay’s upcoming schedule could become. The discussion then shifts to the Arizona Cardinals and whether Marvin Harrison Jr. would benefit from a change of scenery after a disappointing start to his career. The NHL portion focuses heavily on the Edmonton Oilers’ upcoming season. Will, Alex, and Ewan share their expectations for the team under new head coach Mike Babcock and discuss the importance of starting the season strongly. They also make individual predictions for the Oilers, including:

• The team’s most important goaltender
• Expected save percentages
• Connor McDavid’s projected point total
• The Oilers’ leading goal scorer
• Edmonton’s overall point total
• Their expected position in the Pacific Division

The group also discusses Frederik Andersen, Tristan Jarry, Devon Levi, Ike Howard, Matt Savoie, Ryan Shea, Darnell Nurse, and the Oilers’ defensive changes heading into the season. The CFL segment covers the Edmonton Elks’ frustrating loss to the Toronto Argonauts. Despite strong offensive numbers and a productive game from Cody Fajardo, the Elks came away with a defeat. The guys discuss Fajardo’s two interceptions, Edmonton’s lack of a rushing game, the Argos’ explosive passing attack, Vinny Blankenbaker’s missed field goal, and the Elks’ playoff outlook. Finally, the episode closes with an extended debate about Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s controversial comments and his disappointing season with the Toronto Blue Jays. Alex explains why the comments were especially frustrating for fans, while Ewan and Will discuss leadership, accountability, Guerrero’s massive contract, his lack of home-run production, and whether the Blue Jays can bounce back next season. The guys also discuss the future of the Blue Jays, Chris Bassitt’s possible final appearance with the team, the upcoming NHL season, the growth of hockey, and the atmosphere at Rogers Place during playoff games.
Full timestamps00:00-05:39 — Introduction, schedule change, and the week in sports
05:39-20:29 — Falcons dominate the Packers and expose Green Bay’s problems
20:29-28:53 — Marvin Harrison Jr.’s struggles and a possible change of scenery
28:53-34:10 — Edmonton Oilers season expectations and the impact of Mike Babcock
34:10-38:48 — Oilers predictions: goaltending, McDavid, and goal scoring
38:48-45:41 — Oilers point totals, Pacific Division predictions, and playoff expectations
45:41-54:55 — Oilers roster changes, Ike Howard, Frederik Andersen, and the home opener
54:55-62:52 — Edmonton Elks lose a wild CFL game despite strong statistics
62:52-75:50 — Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s comments and the Blue Jays’ disappointing season
75:50-80:51 — Guerrero’s accountability, Chris Bassitt, and the Blue Jays’ offseason
80:51-84:52 — Hockey’s growth, the NHL salary cap, and Canadian sports
84:52-87:57 — Final thoughts, upcoming games, and closing remarks

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This week on The Tuesday Huddle, Will and Ewan break down NFL Week 2—from the Bills’ statement win and the Bengals’ defence to surprising starts around the league. They debate which teams are already out of the Super Bowl picture, make their Week 3 picks, and finish with some fantasy football and hockey-draft banter.
00:00-02:50 — Intro, Week 2 setup, and early-season predictions
02:50-16:35 — NFL Week 2 recap: Bills, Bengals, Packers, Saints, Eagles, Vikings, and Bears
16:35-25:54 — NFL Week 2 recap: Buccaneers, Patriots, Panthers, Falcons, Chargers, and Raiders
25:54-43:59 — NFL Week 2 recap: Broncos, Jaguars, Cowboys, 49ers, Seahawks, Chiefs, Rams, and Giants
43:59-54:27 — Teams already out of the Super Bowl picture and Week 3 picks
54:27-60:20 — Fantasy football struggles, fantasy hockey keepers, and wrap-up






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Ewan and Griffin break down the biggest stories from Week 1 of the NFL season. They discuss surprising results, standout performances, fantasy winners, struggling teams, and the early signs that could shape the rest of the season. The conversation covers the Vikings and Packers, the Giants’ upset over Dallas, Kansas City’s dominant defence, Kenneth Walker III’s breakout game, the Cardinals’ win over the Chargers, and the Eagles’ close victory over Washington. Ewan and Griffin also revisit their Week 1 predictions and look ahead to the most important matchups and storylines for Week 2.


1:17 — Welcome & show overview 
3:56 — NFL Week 1 recap
56:56 — Week 1 takeaways & next week’s games
1:01:13 — Edmonton Elks recap
1:13:18 — Elks playoff outlook
1:20:44 — Injury updates
1:23:02 — Edmonton sports chat
1:25:45 — Hockey discussion 
1:29:03 — Week 2 preview & sign-off

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The Patriots and Rams stumble out of the gate as Ewan, William, and Alex break down their Week 1 losses, preseason rust, coaching decisions, and playoff expectations. Plus, listener takes, Pete Crow-Armstrong’s MVP case, the Blue Jays, hockey, and Kawhi Leonard’s return to Toronto. 0:00 — Introduction and recap of the week 00:55 — Patriots vs. Seahawks: game recap 01:24 — Patriots’ offensive play-calling problems 02:16 — Romeo Doubs’ crucial drop 03:41 — Drake Maye’s lack of rhythm 05:10 — Drew Lock, preseason preparation, and quarterback readiness 06:37 — Patriots’ missed opportunity and Alex’s perspective 07:06 — Super Bowl hangover and expectations for New England 09:03 — Preseason preparation across the NFL 09:32 — Connor Ingram announces his retirement 11:26 — Can the Patriots recover against a difficult schedule? 11:55 — Are the Patriots overrated? 13:46 — Defending New England’s playoff run 16:36 — Rams vs. 49ers: game recap 17:57 — Early warning signs for the Rams 18:57 — Travel schedule and Sean McVay’s preparation 19:56 — Criticism of the Rams’ defensive scheme 21:23 — Stafford, the offence, and the Rams’ concerns 21:53 — McVay, jet lag, and offensive preparation 23:46 — Can the Rams bounce back? 24:42 — Alex’s reaction to Brock Purdy and the Rams defence 25:11 — The impact of losing Mike LaFleur 26:35 — Why every NFL game matters 28:52 — Final thoughts on the Patriots and Rams 29:21 — Edmonton Elks preview 30:43 — Listener takes begin 31:13 — Will the Browns make the playoffs? 31:42 — Are the Seahawks better than the Rams? 32:12 — Favorite colors and a possible soccer discussion 33:36 — “Rams booty?” and listener trolling 34:05 — Will Matthew Stafford lose his starting job? 35:35 — George Pickens as the Cowboys’ top receiver 36:54 — Jadarian Price and the Offensive Rookie of the Year race 37:22 — Pete Crow-Armstrong’s MVP case 39:16 — Why the Dodgers are so dominant 40:43 — Pete Crow-Armstrong’s value to the Cubs 42:40 — Blue Jays struggles and Max Scherzer 43:35 — William leaves the conversation 44:11 — Blue Jays playoff chances 46:26 — Can Vladimir Guerrero Jr. heat up? 48:52 — MLB free agency and possible labour issues 51:46 — Anthony Richardson and more Rams criticism 52:44 — Is baseball really a sport? 55:35 — Conditioning and injuries in baseball 57:30 — Is hockey the hardest sport to play? 58:26 — The hardest championships to win 60:48 — Kawhi Leonard’s return to Toronto 62:14 — Kawhi’s legacy with the Raptors 64:01 — The NBA investigation and contract circumvention 66:15 — The Clippers’ punishment 69:09 — What happens next for Kawhi and the Raptors? 71:36 — The Clippers’ disappointing tenure with Kawhi 73:33 — Why the Clippers should complete the trade 74:25 — Closing discussion and missed NHL segment 74:55 — Episode sign-off and Edmonton Elks preview 75:22 — Final closing remarks

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On this episode, the Edmonton Elks were down 25-7 against Calgary, then flipped the game completely. Ewan and William Melsness break down the Elks' statement comeback, debate whether their defence is the CFL's best, and make bold NFL predictions before Week 1 kicks off. The episode opens with a full NFL buy-or-sell session, including whether a first-year head coach wins Coach of the Year, a rookie quarterback-led team reaches 10 wins, a running back breaks 2,000 rushing yards, and whether an 0-2 team can still win its division. Some takes are safe. Others, including Ewan's confidence in the Bengals and Broncos, could age very badly. You'll also get their complete Week 1 game picks, from Patriots-Seahawks and 49ers-Rams to Ravens-Colts, Chiefs-Broncos, and a questionable Jets-Titans “Tank Bowl.” Ewan and William debate the Lions' Super Bowl ceiling, Baker Mayfield's massive contract, Caleb Williams and the Bears' breakout potential, and whether Jared Goff can ever win the biggest game. Then comes one of college football's most controversial endings. Western Michigan's loss to Michigan was officially affected by an incorrect replay-clock procedure, and the MAC is appealing for the result to be recognized as a Western Michigan win. Ewan and William explain what happened, why the extra second mattered, and why the controversy exposes deeper problems with college football's fragmented officiating structure. They also examine the escalating LSU and SEC dispute surrounding players returning from NFL opportunities and the increasingly unclear rules around NIL. The Elks discussion goes beyond the comeback. Ewan and William assess Vernon Adams Jr.'s remarkable 22-to-2 touchdown-to-interception start, the defence's ability to make decisive plays at every level, Justin Rankin's impact even when he isn't dominating statistically, and Edmonton's path to a potential 13-win season and West Division title. To close it out, the hosts argue over their fantasy football teams, place a Big Mac wager on Jalen Hurts versus Drake Maye, and settle the highly serious question of which lines are worst to wait in. Perfect for NFL fans preparing for Week 1, CFL followers tracking Edmonton's playoff push, and anyone who enjoys strong sports opinions, questionable predictions, and a little chaos. 0:00 Intro & new recording setup
0:00 Intro & new recording setup
4:22 Show preview
6:59 Buy or Sell: NFL season predictions 
23:22 NFL Week 1 game picks
38:17 Western Michigan–Michigan officiating controversy
42:44 LSU, SEC, and college football chaos
44:49 Edmonton Elks comeback win recap 
47:33 Elks playoff outlook & remaining schedule
51:44 Elks defence and offensive takeaways
57:33 Closing thoughts, fantasy football & sign-off

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In this episode of The Manning Show, Ewan and the crew kick things off with a catch-up after missing a week, then dive into a packed sports rundown. They break down the Edmonton Elks’ standout defence, react to the World Cup’s biggest moments, debate Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s slump and the MLB landscape, and share thoughts on LeBron James signing with the Sixers. The episode closes with a long listener takes segment covering everything from NFL and NBA hot takes to soccer, golf, and more.

• 0:00–1:19 — Intro/opening banter
• 1:19–2:18 — Elks defence talk
• 2:18–5:42 — World Cup recap
• 5:42–9:55 — MLB / Vlad discussion
• 9:55–17:43 — LeBron to the Sixers
• 17:43–21:31 — Elks game recap
• 21:31–23:00 — Transition into listener takes
• 23:00–52:44 — Listener takes
• 52:44–53:44 — Outro

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Most CFL fans aren’t talking enough about the Montreal Alouettes and their almost-perfect season — but [guest] reveals why they’re secretly the team to beat in 2023. Meanwhile, the Edmonton Elks are making waves, with a defence that might just be the best in the league and a quarterback situation that’s about to get even more intriguing. In this episode, we break down the hottest matchups and the storylines everyone’s missing: Why Zach Caleros and Drew Brown’s ongoing battle is more than just a game — it’s a clash that could change Winnipeg’s season. We dive into the Red Blacks' mismanagement and what it means for their future, explore the rise (and fall) of Bo Levi Mitchell with Hamilton, and analyze why Chad Kelly’s gunslinger mentality is both their biggest weapon and their biggest weakness. You'll discover: The CFL teams with the most underrated defences and their game-changing players — from Joseph O'Si to Julian Hauser. How the Elks’ dynamic run game and disciplined defence can upset the top teams, including Nathan Rourke’s BC Lions. The most exciting quarterback rankings and why Trevor Harris and Davis Alexander are lighting up the league. Key strategies for turning close games into winning streaks — from running the ball to relentless pass rushes. Why does this matter? Because in the CFL, anything can happen — a fumble, a scramble, or a last-minute hero moment can flip the season. Stay ahead of the chaos, understand the finer details, and get the insights that could win or lose you your fantasy league or Grey Cup pool. Whether you’re a diehard fan or a casual viewer, this episode offers a deep dive into the CFL’s most compelling storylines — with expert analysis, sharp takes, and insider secrets. Don’t miss out — hit play and see why CFL fever is heating up just in time for playoff season. Guest [Zak McDonald] is a CFL analyst and content creator known for breaking down game film with unmatched passion and precision, making him one of the most trusted voices in Canadian football. Perfect for fans who love tactical breakdowns, underdog stories, and the inside scoop on CFL playoff races. If your season depends on understanding who’s real and who’s just hot — this episode is your ultimate guide.


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Most NFL fans overlook the critical moments that decide a game—and this episode unlocks those secrets. Whether you're a die-hard fantasy player, passionate gambler, or just love breaking down the sport, this episode is your ultimate playbook. Discover the surprising strategies that can elevate your team, the underrated players poised for breakout seasons, and the hot takes that will challenge your instincts. In this fast-paced episode, we unravel everything from NFL playoff predictions to fantasy sleepers. Will the Eagles finally reach the Super Bowl, or will the Bills surprise everyone? We break down the most controversial playoff forecasts with sharp analysis and bold predictions. Plus, dive into our fantasy football sleepers—Jameer Gibbs, Bryce Young, Devon A Chan, and more—each picked for their breakout potential. Whether you’re looking to dominate your league or make smarter bets, these insights are game-changers. We also debate the hottest NFL questions: Build around Patrick Mahomes or Josh Allen? Elite pass rusher or lockdown corner? And what’s more valuable—an elite offence or a stifling defence? Our detailed analysis highlights the most strategic choices for teams aiming for Super Bowl glory. If you want to turn game-day knowledge into victory, this episode is your playmaker. And it’s not just predictions— we explore the evolving landscape of NFL entertainment, the importance of star personalities like Conor McGregor and Patty Pimblett in UFC, and what their careers teach us about the art of showmanship. This episode combines sports analysis with entertainment insights to keep you hooked from start to finish. Whether you're a seasoned fanatic or a curious newcomer, this episode will make you see the game in a whole new way. Don't miss out—hit play now and elevate your sports IQ with the sharpest, funniest, and most insightful breakdown in the game. 

• 1:00–1:29 — Weekend recap starts
• 1:29–2:24 — Weekend recap continues and transitions
• 2:24–4:47 — Buy or sell NFL segment
• 4:47–20:59 — NFL would-you-rather discussion
• 20:59–24:16 — Fantasy QB sleepers
• 24:16–26:54 — Fantasy RB sleepers
• 26:54–29:54 — Fantasy WR sleepers
• 29:54–32:38 — Fantasy TE sleepers
• 32:38–34:36 — Biggest busts
• 34:36–36:54 — League-winning breakout players
• 36:54–40:42 — UFC / Conor McGregor discussion
• 40:42–43:58 — Patty Pimblett / UFC entertainment talk
• 43:58–44:27 — Outro

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The Thursday Report — Episode 2 | Ewan Manning & William Melsness
00:00 — Introduction and episode preview
01:17 — Blue Jays talk and early-season outlook
04:33 — Edmonton Elks game preview vs. Ottawa
05:34 — Recap of the loss to BC and the Elks’ 3–1 start
06:38 — James Butler’s big game and the Elks’ run game issues
07:41 — Austin Mack’s breakout performance
09:20 — Ottawa’s winless start and game prediction
10:58 — Offensive adjustments and Jordan Max Simic’s play-calling
12:08 — Elks defence, pressure, and coverage concerns
14:16 — Injury updates and key defensive players
16:24 — Commonwealth crowd, home atmosphere, and attendance
18:01 — Justin Rankin’s ball security and fumbling concerns
21:18 — Leo Carlson offer sheet and Anaheim Ducks discussion
29:28 — Edmonton Oilers offseason, cap space, and roster decisions
34:26 — Goaltending plans and the three-goalie strategy
38:36 — Oilers contract breakdown and roster value
44:27 — World Cup recap: Switzerland, Argentina, Egypt, and VAR controversy
50:58 — UFC 303 preview: McGregor, Holloway, and the fight card
52:35 — Outro and final thoughts

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In this episode of The Manning Show, Ewan and William kick things off with a catch-up on the new co-host dynamic and the state of the show, before diving into a full NFL division-by-division ranking. They debate each division, compare playoff contenders, and make bold predictions about who will rise, regress, or miss the postseason entirely. From there, they move into a rapid-fire NFL discussion: the quarterback under the most pressure, teams most likely to miss the playoffs after making them last year, the first coach to be fired, and the most overrated team heading into the season. They wrap up the football segment with a quick buy-or-sell round on major league storylines. The episode closes with a World Cup recap and playoff preview, where they break down the round of sixteen, quarterfinal matchups, and their final predictions for who will lift the trophy. [01:18 – 05:13] Intro & Setup Ewan welcomes Will as his new co-host. They introduce the show, joke about needing a co-host, briefly riff on the Blue Jays being terrible, and preview the episode segments (division rankings, QB pressure, buy/sell, World Cup). [05:14 – 26:38] NFC Division Rankings Working through a physical board. Full rankings with banter: NFC East (Eagles, Cowboys, Giants, Commanders) — Eagles are a clear 1, debate on Cowboys vs. Commanders NFC North (Bears, Lions, Packers, Vikings) — Bears at 1 (Caleb Williams hype), Vikings roasted NFC South (Bucs, Panthers, Saints, Falcons) — Bucs vs. Panthers battle for first NFC West (Rams, Seahawks, 49ers, Cardinals) — Rams at 1 after landing Myles Garrett; Cardinals firmly last [26:39 – 43:58] AFC Division Rankings AFC West (Broncos, Chargers, Chiefs, Raiders) — Broncos at 1, debate on Chiefs' health AFC South (Texans, Jags, Colts, Titans) — Texans first, Titans last, whole division called worst in football AFC North (Ravens, Bengals, Steelers, Browns) — Browns dunked on immediately, Ravens at 1 AFC East (Bills, Patriots, Dolphins, Jets) — Bills first, Jets roasted, Patriots optimism from Will [44:31 – 52:38] Questions Segment Which QB has the most pressure? → Lamar Jackson Which playoff team misses it? → Tampa Bay Bucs / Chargers Which non-playoff team makes it? → Lions, Cowboys, Chiefs, 49ers Which coach gets fired first? → Zach Taylor (Bengals) Who's most overrated? → Broncos / Ravens One take you'll defend all season? → Drake May MVP + AJ Brown 1,300 yards (Will); Rams are the best team (Ewan) [52:38 – 55:10] Buy or Sell Segment Rapid-fire takes on statements (Chiefs 14+ wins, Lions Super Bowl, Caleb Williams Pro Bowl, Ravens best defense, Bills win AFC, Bengals miss playoffs, Brock Purdy regresses, Texans win AFC South, Jalen Hurts MVP, etc.) [55:10 – 66:48] FIFA World Cup Segment Will leads a rundown of the Round of 16 results (Morocco, France, Norway/Brazil upset, England/Portugal) with discussion on the Balogun red card controversy and USA's exit. Quarterfinal and semifinal predictions land on France winning the whole thing. [66:48 – 68:27] Outro Wrap-up, teasing a Friday episode around the Elks game and an Oilers segment. Shoutout to Justin Rankin. Sign-off.

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