Introduction

00:00:33 – 00:02:12

Hosts Chris Horwedel and Mario Hines open the show with casual banter about how fast the week has gone.

Mario mistakenly thought it was Friday instead of Wednesday and tells a humorous story about his awkward interaction with a security guard.

Coaching Carousel & Mike Vrabel to Patriots

00:02:12 – 00:06:30

Discussion on the New England Patriots hiring Mike Vrabel as head coach.

Both hosts agree it was an expected move, comparing it to an obvious draft pick.

They discuss the Rooney Rule and how it seemed clear that Byron Leftwich and Pep Hamilton were interviewed as formalities before hiring Vrabel.

Chris mentions that players like Taylor Decker praised Vrabel as a strong leader.

Mario highlights that while Vrabel may not be a strategic genius, his leadership skills could work in New England.

NBA Tangent: Victor Wembanyama and Basketball's Direction

00:06:30 – 00:12:50

Discussion shifts to Victor Wembanyama and his impact on basketball.

Chris argues that while Wembanyama is incredibly talented, his three-point shooting habits reflect the modern NBA's flaws.

Mario agrees that basketball has moved away from post-dominance, comparing Wembanyama to Shaquille O'Neal and discussing how centers should be more dominant in the paint.

Debate about expanding the court and moving the three-point line back to improve the game.

Chris critiques the current state of basketball, saying it lacks creativity and relies too much on isolation play.

NFL Coaching Vacancies & Potential Hires

00:13:00 – 00:24:30

Breakdown of open head coaching jobs, including the Dallas Cowboys, Chicago Bears, New York Jets, Las Vegas Raiders, Jacksonville Jaguars, and New Orleans Saints.

Speculation on Ben Johnson likely going to the Raiders.

Discussion on whether Mike McCarthy is a good fit for the Bears.

Debate about Deion Sanders being linked to the Cowboys:

Mario finds it shocking but not impossible given Jerry Jones' bold personality.

Chris believes Sanders' lack of focus on the lines could hurt him at the NFL level.

Discussion on whether the Jets are the worst coaching job in football this year.

NFL Divisional Round Matchups

1. Houston Texans vs. Kansas City Chiefs

00:37:05 – 00:41:13

Chiefs favored by 8 points.

Discussion of Patrick Mahomes' ability to turn it on in the playoffs.

Debate on whether the Texans' win last week was due to their success or the Chargers' implosion.

Chris brings up Justin Herbert's struggles, noting that he threw more interceptions in one game (4) than he had all of 2024.

2. Washington Commanders vs. Detroit Lions

00:43:01 – 00:46:05

Lions favored by 9 points.

Mario, as a Lions fan, acknowledges Washington's talent but highlights their struggles against the run.

Discussion about Jared Goff leading all remaining QBs in playoff passing yards.

Chris jokes about betting the Commanders' money line.

3. Los Angeles Rams vs. Philadelphia Eagles

00:46:22 – 00:49:39

Eagles favored by 6 points.

Debate over Jalen Hurts needing to stay on script and not force plays.

Discussion on Lane Johnson being snubbed in the All-Pro voting and how he is using it as motivation.

Chris provides a statistical comparison of Lane Johnson vs. Penei Sewell, highlighting Johnson's dominance.

4. Baltimore Ravens vs. Buffalo Bills

00:49:50 – 00:52:45

Bills are 1-point underdogs at home.

Chris and Mario see this game as the best matchup of the weekend.

Debate over whether this game decides the MVP race between Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson.

Discussion of how Lamar Jackson was undervalued in free agency and how teams missed an opportunity to acquire a now three-time MVP.

Closing Thoughts

00:52:45 – End

Chris and Mario reflect on how NFL teams often overlook talent.

They agree that Lamar Jackson deserves more recognition for his career achievements.

Final thoughts on how the Divisional Round games could shape the Super Bowl picture.

Introduction

00:00:31–00:01:37

Mario expresses his joy over the Detroit Lions securing the number one seed in the NFC.

Detroit Lions' Success

00:01:37–00:02:36

The hosts discuss the Lions' playoff clinch.

They highlight Jahmyr Gibbs' remarkable game performance, including 4 touchdowns.

Coaching Carousel and Patriots' Hiring Practices

00:03:19–00:09:16

Discussion of the Patriots' controversial Rooney Rule compliance:

Pep Hamilton and Byron Leftwich were reportedly interviewed, with Mike Vrabel expected to take over.

Mario criticizes the process, calling it a mockery of the Rooney Rule.

One-and-Done NFL Coaches

00:10:08–00:13:06

Analysis of recent coaching changes, including Antonio Pierce's firing after one season with the Raiders.

A review of past one-and-done coaches, such as Urban Meyer, Nathaniel Hackett, and Frank Reich.

Reflection on the trend of teams not allowing coaches enough time to establish themselves.

NFL Wild Card Weekend Matchups

Los Angeles Chargers vs. Houston Texans

00:25:01–00:26:13

Chargers are favored by three points.

Chris believes the Chargers are better equipped to win despite Houston's home-field advantage.

Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Baltimore Ravens

00:26:13–00:27:00

Ravens favored by 9.5 points.

Discussion of the Ravens' strong defense and Steelers' struggles.

Denver Broncos vs. Buffalo Bills

00:35:01–00:35:35

Bills favored by 8.5 points.

Mario acknowledges the Broncos' progress but expects the Bills to dominate.

Green Bay Packers vs. Philadelphia Eagles

00:36:49–00:37:43

Eagles favored by 4.5 points.

The Packers' young roster is highlighted as a disadvantage against the experienced Eagles.

Washington Commanders vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

00:39:36–00:41:26

Buccaneers favored by three points.

Praise for Baker Mayfield's impressive season, despite Tampa's defensive struggles.

Minnesota Vikings vs. Los Angeles Rams

00:42:48–00:44:15

Rams favored by one point.

Criticism of Sam Darnold's recent performance, with the Rams expected to capitalize.

Potential Player Trades and Free Agency

00:27:13–00:33:38

Speculation on Tyreek Hill potentially joining the Ravens.

Discussion of the financial and team chemistry implications of such a trade.

Analysis of Rashod Bateman's role in Baltimore and the need for a true WR1.

Wildfires in Los Angeles and Game Impact

00:44:22–00:45:15

Wildfires near Los Angeles may impact the Rams-Vikings game.

Chris recounts the severity of recent wildfires, highlighting their effect on logistics and safety.

Closing 

00:46:11–End

Introduction

00:00:59–00:02:30:

Hosts Chris Horwedel and Mario Hines open the first episode of the new year with lighthearted banter about New Year's Day and the unique challenges of starting 2025.

College Football Playoff Commentary

00:02:30–00:06:42:

Discussion about the broken playoff system, with complaints about conference winners receiving automatic bids and top seeds often being underdogs.

Reflections on the Texas-Arizona State game, including Quinn Ewers' rumored $6 million NIL offer and standout performances by Arizona State players.

Running Backs Missing Records

00:07:46–00:09:21:

Saquon Barkley falls 100 yards short of Eric Dickerson's single-season rushing record as the Eagles decide to rest their starters.

Reflections on running back Ashton Jeanty's near-break of Barry Sanders' single-season record, falling 27 yards short.

Pop Culture and Documentaries

00:09:47–00:14:39:

Chris recommends Netflix's Kings of Tupelo, a wild documentary involving Elvis impersonation, organ trafficking, and a presidential assassination attempt.

Other documentary mentions include Tickled, a bizarre tale about competitive endurance tickling.

NFL Week 18 Game-by-Game Discussion

Cleveland Browns vs. Baltimore Ravens (00:14:52–00:17:12):

Analysis of the Ravens' need to stay sharp and their chances of clinching the AFC North title against a Browns team experimenting with backup quarterbacks.

Cincinnati Bengals vs. Pittsburgh Steelers (00:17:54–00:19:57):

The Bengals aim to secure a playoff spot while battling Pittsburgh, with both teams navigating playoff implications.

New England Patriots vs. Buffalo Bills (00:20:12–00:21:21):

Buffalo locks up the #2 seed, with the Patriots playing out the string and debating their draft position.

Atlanta Falcons vs. Carolina Panthers (00:28:00–00:29:19):

Falcons aim to clinch the NFC South title with a win, while Carolina's struggles continue.

Green Bay Packers vs. Chicago Bears (00:30:28–00:30:45):

Packers rest starters, and the Bears have little to play for beyond pride.

Houston Texans vs. Tennessee Titans (00:31:00–00:32:26):

Texans plan to play their starters despite clinching a playoff spot, while the Titans face an uncertain offseason.

Indianapolis Colts vs. Jacksonville Jaguars (00:32:37–00:34:15):

Colts' solid play contrasts with the Jaguars' tumultuous season, with Indianapolis seen as a favorite.

Philadelphia Eagles vs. New York Giants (00:34:15–00:36:11):

Eagles' backups face a Giants team looking to make a statement.

Dallas Cowboys vs. Washington Commanders (00:36:42–00:37:47):

Commanders seek to prove their worth, facing a disorganized Cowboys team.

Denver Broncos vs. Kansas City Chiefs (00:37:47–00:38:48):

Chiefs rest starters, while the Broncos aim to secure a playoff berth.

Miami Dolphins vs. New York Jets (00:38:48–00:40:49):

Dolphins are slight favorites, with the Jets out of playoff contention and Aaron Rodgers reflecting on his tumultuous time in New York.

Las Vegas Raiders vs. Los Angeles Chargers (00:42:02–00:44:18):

Chargers look to maintain momentum, while the Raiders play out their season.

San Francisco 49ers vs. Arizona Cardinals (00:44:39–00:47:54):

Injuries plague the 49ers, giving the Cardinals an edge in this matchup.

Seattle Seahawks vs. Los Angeles Rams (00:47:54–00:48:22):

Both teams have little at stake, leading to an unremarkable game.

Minnesota Vikings vs. Detroit Lions (00:48:22–00:52:16):

Lions' offensive dominance sets them apart as playoff contenders, but concerns about their defense remain.

Coaching and Team Dynamics

00:50:17–00:52:13:

Discussion on potential coaching departures, including Ben Johnson from the Lions and Aaron Glenn, highlighting the challenges of replacing high-caliber coordinators.

Closing Thoughts

00:52:16–End:

The hosts conclude with reflections on the Lions' playoff potential and the broader state of the NFL heading into the postseason.

Introduction

0:00:45 - 0:43:31

Chris Horwedel and Mario Hines kick off the show with holiday greetings and set the stage for Week 17 discussions, emphasizing playoff scenarios and team struggles, such as concussion protocols and late-season roster changes.

NFL Week 17 Game-by-Game Analysis

1. Seattle Seahawks @ Chicago Bears

2:29 - 4:38

Discussion on the Seahawks' favored position (-4) against a struggling Bears team. Criticism focuses on the Bears' coaching and their inability to utilize their roster effectively.

2. Los Angeles Chargers @ New England Patriots

5:29 - 6:44

Chargers are favored (-4.5) as they push for playoff positioning in the AFC. The Patriots, with the second-draft pick, are critiqued for their lack of competitiveness. The future of top QB prospects and draft strategies is debated.

3. Denver Broncos @ Cincinnati Bengals

7:23 - 8:31

Bengals (-3) face a surging Broncos team. Mario supports Cincinnati, citing their star players needing to step up, while Chris questions their motivation, given Denver's playoff stakes.

4. Arizona Cardinals @ Los Angeles Rams

10:24 - 12:51

Rams (-6.5) are praised for their resilience, particularly Puka Nacua's performance. Playoff implications hinge on multiple scenarios, including a Rams win and a Seahawks loss.

5. Carolina Panthers @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers

13:12 - 15:09

With Tampa Bay favored (-7.5), weather conditions in Tampa (thunderstorms) are discussed. Bryce Young's struggles in adverse weather are highlighted.

6. Dallas Cowboys @ Philadelphia Eagles

15:09 - 18:35

Eagles (-7) are expected to dominate with the Cowboys missing key players like CeeDee Lamb. The conversation shifts to the challenges of backup quarterbacks fitting into different offensive systems.

7. Indianapolis Colts @ New York Giants

19:25 - 20:45

Colts (-7.5) take on a struggling Giants team. Both hosts criticize the Giants' inability to compete and highlight Jonathan Taylor's costly mistakes in prior games.

8. New Orleans Saints @ Las Vegas Raiders

25:36 - 26:29

Saints (+1) host the Raiders in a game dismissed as largely inconsequential. Discussion includes critiques of Spencer Rattler's quarterbacking for the Saints.

9. New York Jets @ Buffalo Bills

26:59 - 27:31

Bills (-9.5) aim to keep playoff momentum as Josh Allen chases MVP recognition. Both hosts note the team's support for Allen.

10. Green Bay Packers @ Minnesota Vikings

31:30 - 38:03

Vikings (+1) host the Packers in a pivotal NFC North clash. Green Bay's resurgence is noted, while the Vikings are criticized for their inconsistency.

11. Atlanta Falcons @ Washington Commanders

39:11 - 40:13

Commanders (-4) are favored as they play for their playoff hopes. The Falcons' inconsistency and Michael Penix Jr.'s development are discussed.

12. Detroit Lions @ San Francisco 49ers (Monday Night Football)

40:28 - 41:21

Lions (-3.5) face a 49ers team with limited offensive options. Detroit's playoff-clinching scenarios are reviewed.

Other Topics

Pop Culture and College Sports

38:44 - End

They discuss the college bowl games and surprising coaching hires, including Michael Vick and DeSean Jackson taking roles at HBCUs.

Introduction

00:00:00–00:02:21

Hosts Chris Horwedel and Mario Hines introduce the holiday edition of the podcast, reflecting on the holiday season and their plans.

Brief comedic exchange about TV shows like Special Forces: World's Toughest featuring Cam Newton and Golden Tate.

Pop Culture Commentary

00:02:21–00:04:35

Discussion about gambling props on pre-taped entertainment like Game of Thrones and its oddities.

Transition into analyzing media quirks and popular culture's influence.

NFL Week 16 Overview

00:04:35–00:06:27

Commentary on the Detroit Lions' heartbreaking loss and their season challenges, including injuries to key players like David Montgomery, Carlton Davis, and Alim McNeill.

Discussion of Josh Allen's standout season and the Bills' recent form.

Game-by-Game Analysis

1. Denver Broncos vs. Los Angeles Chargers

00:15:49

Chargers favored by three points.

Analysis of how the Broncos' previous win and their defensive strengths might match up with the Chargers' offense.

2. Houston Texans vs. Kansas City Chiefs

00:16:20

Chiefs favored by 3.5 points.

Patrick Mahomes' recent injury and his ability to play through it are highlighted.

3. Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Baltimore Ravens

00:19:04

Ravens favored by 6.5 points.

Commentary on Lamar Jackson's five-touchdown performance and how the Steelers might respond defensively.

4. Arizona Cardinals vs. Carolina Panthers

00:21:03

Cardinals favored by 4.5 points.

Discussion about the Panthers' inconsistencies and the Cardinals' slim playoff chances.

5. Cleveland Browns vs. Cincinnati Bengals

00:22:39

Bengals favored by 8.5 points.

Analysis of the Browns' struggles, including quarterback changes, and the Bengals' defensive improvements.

6. Detroit Lions vs. Chicago Bears

00:24:37

Lions favored by 6.5 points.

Commentary on Caleb Williams' body language and leadership on the Bears, with a reflection on team dynamics.

7. Los Angeles Rams vs. New York Jets

00:28:26

Jets as three-point underdogs.

Analysis of the Jets' recent close games and their ability to challenge the Rams.

8. New York Giants vs. Atlanta Falcons

00:29:05

Falcons favored by 8.5 points.

Discussion of rookie Michael Penix Jr.'s debut and the Giants' lackluster performance.

9. Minnesota Vikings vs. Seattle Seahawks

00:35:26

Vikings favored by 2.5 points.

Insight into Geno Smith's injury status and the Seahawks' ability to upset the Vikings.

10. New England Patriots vs. Buffalo Bills

00:36:19

Bills favored by 14 points.

Commentary on the stark contrast between the Bills' dominance and the Patriots' struggles.

11. San Francisco 49ers vs. Miami Dolphins

00:37:11

Dolphins favored by one point.

Analysis of the injury-plagued 49ers and the Dolphins' opportunity to capitalize.

12. Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Dallas Cowboys

00:37:18

Cowboys favored by four points.

Brief critique of the Cowboys' form and a discussion of Tampa Bay's potential.

13. New Orleans Saints vs. Green Bay Packers

00:37:46

Packers favored by 14 points.

Reflection on both teams' ability to put points on the board despite recent struggles.

Additional NFL Topics

00:07:00–00:14:00

Josh Allen as the MVP frontrunner with Lamar Jackson and Saquon Barkley as distant competitors.

Debate about Coach of the Year, with Kevin O'Connell as the favorite and Nick Sirianni not receiving enough recognition despite the Eagles' success.

00:14:28

Defensive Rookie of the Year candidates: Jared Verse and others, with acknowledgment of defensive metrics and evolving evaluation standards.

Closing Remarks

00:38:21

Hosts reflect on their discussions and wish listeners happy holidays.

Intro

0:00 - 2:12: The episode opens with hosts Chris Horwedel and Mario Hines greeting listeners and discussing their excitement about Chris being a finalist for a Sports Talk Podcast award alongside notable names like the Kelce brothers and Scott Van Pelt.

College Football Discussions

02:43 - 07:14: The hosts delve into the news about Bill Belichick reportedly finalizing a deal to become the head coach at the University of North Carolina. They critique Belichick's suitability for college coaching and discuss his extensive demands, such as NFL-style infrastructure, high NIL budgets, and dual-staff teams. The legacy implications of this move are also debated.

09:13 - 20:00: Discussion shifts to the Heisman Trophy finalists: Dillon Gabriel, Cam Ward, Travis Hunter, and Ashton Jeanty. Mario and Chris analyze each candidate's performance, focusing on Jeanty's historical production and Hunter's unique two-way role at Colorado. Comparisons to past greats like Champ Bailey and Charles Woodson are explored.

NFL Week 15 Game-by-Game Analysis

25:30 - 27:22:

Los Angeles Rams @ San Francisco 49ers:

Discussion begins with the Rams' recent success, including a big win over the Bills. The 49ers' struggles with injuries, including Jordan Mason and Christian McCaffrey, are highlighted. The Rams' Moneyline odds (+135) are considered intriguing given their momentum.

27:22 - 28:14:

Baltimore Ravens @ New York Giants:

Ravens are heavily favored (-15.5). The hosts highlight Baltimore's strong motivation and the Giants' issues with Tommy DeVito under center.

28:24 - 29:10:

Cincinnati Bengals @ Tennessee Titans:

Titans (+5) face a Bengals team struggling with defensive consistency. The hosts critique the Bengals' inability to dominate despite Joe Burrow's strong performances.

29:29 - 30:27:

Dallas Cowboys @ Carolina Panthers:

Panthers are slight favorites (-3). The hosts note Bryce Young's improving form, especially after the team's recent win over the Eagles.

31:12 - 32:03:

Kansas City Chiefs @ Cleveland Browns:

Chiefs' tendency to win narrowly without covering spreads is analyzed. The Browns (+4) are seen as a defensively strong but offensively limited team.

33:11 - 34:14:

Miami Dolphins @ Houston Texans:

Texans (-3) are favored. The conversation focuses on Houston's defensive capabilities and Miami's offensive struggles.

34:14 - 35:49:

New York Jets @ Jacksonville Jaguars:

Jaguars (+3) host the Jets. The hosts discuss Jacksonville's challenges without Trevor Lawrence and the Jets' continued mediocrity.

37:10 - 37:58:

Washington Commanders @ New Orleans Saints:

Commanders are favorites (-7.5). The Saints' quarterback issues and general inconsistency are highlighted.

38:09 - 39:15:

Buffalo Bills @ Detroit Lions:

Lions (-2.5) are praised for their offensive prowess but criticized for defensive vulnerabilities. The Bills' strong playoff push is noted.

39:15 - 40:27:

Indianapolis Colts @ Denver Broncos:

Broncos (-3.5) host the Colts. Denver's improved play-action offense and solid defense are acknowledged as key advantages.

40:27 - 41:16:

New England Patriots @ Arizona Cardinals:

Cardinals (-6) are expected to capitalize on the Patriots' apparent lack of competitiveness this season.

43:12 - 44:23:

Green Bay Packers @ Seattle Seahawks:

Packers are slight favorites. The hosts analyze the quarterbacks' performances and the teams' contrasting supporting casts.

47:35 - 48:58:

Chicago Bears @ Minnesota Vikings:

Vikings (-7) are expected to maintain momentum against the struggling Bears.

53:55 - End:

Atlanta Falcons @ Las Vegas Raiders:

Uncertainty around starting quarterbacks dominates the conversation. Desmond Ridder's availability for the Falcons remains a key question.

Introduction and General NFL Discussions

00:00-02:00: Chris and Mario kick off the podcast with lighthearted banter, discussing non-traditional holiday foods before transitioning to the football agenda, including notable injuries, suspensions, and controversies.

Player Skill Rankings

02:22-11:00: Chris introduces an article ranking players by specific skills. Discussions include:

Jared Goff's accuracy (03:32) and Patrick Mahomes' scrambling ability (05:00).

Running backs: Jameer Gibbs and Saquon Barkley.

Offensive linemen like Penei Sewell and defensive players like Jack Campbell and Kirby Joseph are also highlighted.

Thanksgiving Game Reflection

19:38-27:30: Analysis of the Detroit Lions vs. Chicago Bears game on Thanksgiving:

Lions' resilience despite injuries and key signings like Jamal Adams (20:02).

Bears' poor clock management in the final minute leads to criticism of coaching and execution (26:00).

Week 14 Game Analysis

Detroit Lions vs. Green Bay Packers (19:38):

Lions are praised for their cohesion and competitiveness. Injuries and the Packers' potential errors could shape the game.

Atlanta Falcons vs. Minnesota Vikings (28:49):

Vikings are favored. Falcons' inconsistency is highlighted but with potential to upset.

Carolina Panthers vs. Philadelphia Eagles (29:29):

Eagles are heavy favorites, showcasing confidence and aiming for home-field advantage. Bryce Young's struggles with limited offensive support are noted.

Cleveland Browns vs. Pittsburgh Steelers (32:31):

The "Jameis Winston experience" is discussed, focusing on his charisma and erratic play style. Steelers are favored at home.

Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Tennessee Titans (37:36):

Titans are favored. Trevor Lawrence's career trajectory and potential underachievement are analyzed.

Las Vegas Raiders vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (41:26):

Buccaneers are expected to dominate. The Raiders' inconsistency is highlighted despite standout performances from certain players.

New Orleans Saints vs. New York Giants (45:21):

Saints are slightly favored, with both teams struggling for consistency.

New York Jets vs. Miami Dolphins (46:12):

Dolphins are expected to win comfortably against a struggling Jets team.

Seattle Seahawks vs. Arizona Cardinals (46:31):

Cardinals are slight favorites in a game marked by division rivalry and inconsistent play from both teams.

Buffalo Bills vs. Los Angeles Rams (48:30):

Bills are predicted to win as they regain form. Rams present a challenging matchup.

Chicago Bears vs. San Francisco 49ers (49:14):

Despite injuries to key 49ers players, the Bears' inability to capitalize on opportunities makes the 49ers favorites.

Los Angeles Chargers vs. Kansas City Chiefs (50:33):

Chiefs are marginal favorites, but the Chargers' steady development could cause an upset.

Cincinnati Bengals vs. Dallas Cowboys (51:24):

Bengals are expected to outperform despite their record, as the Cowboys' inconsistencies come into question.

Player Career Trajectories and Insights

Discussions delve into the careers of players like Jameis Winston, Trevor Lawrence, and Geno Smith, with insights into their strengths, weaknesses, and future outlooks.

This transcript reflects a dynamic blend of game previews, player evaluations, and team analyses. The hosts' conversational tone and humorous anecdotes add depth and entertainment, making it an engaging listen for NFL fans.

Introduction

00:00-00:40

Chris Horwedel and Mario Hines kick off the Underdog NFL Show, celebrating Thanksgiving and sharing lighthearted banter.

Thanksgiving Day Games

Chicago Bears vs. Detroit Lions

01:28-02:20

Discussion centers on Caleb Williams' progress as Bears QB and the Lions' consistent dominance, with mentions of key player performances.

New York Giants vs. Dallas Cowboys

04:27-05:44

Mario jokes about the quarterbacks, Drew Lock and Cooper Rush, as unlikely Thanksgiving game headliners.

Miami Dolphins vs. Green Bay Packers

06:02-06:39

Focus on the Dolphins' offensive threats versus the Packers' secondary struggles.

Black Friday Game

Las Vegas Raiders vs. Kansas City Chiefs

06:53-08:10

Discussion about the Raiders' struggles and Chiefs' lineup updates, including Isaiah Pacheco's return.

Sunday Games

Arizona Cardinals vs. Minnesota Vikings

08:29-09:59

Notable signing of Daniel Jones by the Vikings and comparisons between the Cardinals' and Bears' challenges.

Houston Texans vs. Jacksonville Jaguars

10:06-10:39

Debate over Trevor Lawrence's potential return and Nico Collins' recent performance.

Indianapolis Colts vs. New England Patriots

10:45-11:48

Analysis of Anthony Richardson's inconsistency and the Colts' reliance on defense to succeed.

Los Angeles Chargers vs. Atlanta Falcons

12:03-12:23

Chargers are recognized for their talent but struggle in close games.

Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Cincinnati Bengals

12:41-13:53

Highlighting the Steelers' strong defense and the Bengals' offensive urgency.

Seattle Seahawks vs. New York Jets

15:07-16:34

Discussion on the Jets' inconsistency and Aaron Rodgers' uncertain future in the league.

Tennessee Titans vs. Washington Commanders

19:14-20:44

Critique of the Titans' struggles and Commanders' recent lack of discipline.

Los Angeles Rams vs. New Orleans Saints

20:49-21:50

Evaluation of the Rams' recent performance and their controlled gameplay against weaker opponents.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Carolina Panthers

23:08-23:41

Reflection on Bryce Young's development and his potential beyond the Panthers.

Philadelphia Eagles vs. Baltimore Ravens

23:52-25:12

Highlights the clash between two of the league's top rushing offenses, with focus on defense and rushing efficiency.

San Francisco 49ers vs. Buffalo Bills

25:17-26:49

Analysis of the 49ers' injuries and the Bills' consistent performance, featuring key stats on Josh Allen and Christian McCaffrey.

Cleveland Browns vs. Denver Broncos

27:01-27:47

Observations on the Broncos' strong running game and improving defense, along with the Browns' current challenges.

Closing

27:47-28:00

Chris and Mario wrap up the episode, wishing listeners a Happy Thanksgiving and expressing excitement for the upcoming football week.

Introduction (00:00 - 00:45)

Chris Horwedel and Mario Hines kick off the episode discussing Week 12 in the NFL. They share lighthearted banter, with Mario expressing his optimism and Chris teasing about the week's games and intriguing storylines.

General NFL News (00:45 - 21:21)

Daniel Jones Benched (00:45 - 06:11)

The hosts analyze the Giants' decision to bench Daniel Jones for Tommy DeVito. They discuss the team's lack of ambition for the season and connect it to possible draft prospects like Travis Hunter.

Travis Hunter's potential as a two-way NFL player sparks a debate. Mario is skeptical about the feasibility of playing both sides at the professional level.

Deion Sanders' NFL Prospects (06:11 - 12:19)

Deion's career and coaching style are dissected, with Chris talking about his limitations in an NFL setting. They also explore Deion's reputation among younger fans who view him as "Coach Prime" rather than an NFL legend.

Jets' Turmoil and More (12:19 - 21:21)

Chris reports on the Jets firing GM Joe Douglas and Woody Johnson's early dissatisfaction with Aaron Rodgers.

They debate Rodgers' future, highlighting his declining performance and potential landing spots, including the Browns and Titans. The possibility of Rodgers and Deshaun Watson on the same team is humorously dismissed as a PR nightmare.

Week 12 Game Previews (21:10 - 52:00)

The hosts review every matchup, diving into key narratives and team dynamics.

Steelers vs. Browns (21:21 - 23:12)

Discuss the low-scoring potential and Cleveland's defensive strength. They focus on the unpredictable play of Jamis Winston for the Browns.

Cowboys vs. Commanders (23:12 - 24:54)

A significant point spread reflects Dallas' struggles. The Commanders' competitiveness, even in losses, is a key theme.

Lions vs. Colts (24:54 - 26:46)

Detroit's offensive firepower is contrasted with Indianapolis' reliance on Anthony Richardson, whose inconsistency is highlighted.

Chiefs vs. Panthers (26:46 - 29:41)

Kansas City's efficiency and Patrick Mahomes' similar stats to Bo Nix are discussed. The Panthers' quarterback struggles are highlighted.

Vikings vs. Bears (30:11 - 31:26)

Minnesota's resurgence contrasts with Chicago's stagnation. The Bears' Caleb Williams faces criticism for a lack of touchdown passes.

Patriots vs. Dolphins (32:01 - 33:01)

Miami's offense shines against a struggling New England team that appears focused on draft positioning.

Buccaneers vs. Giants (36:21 - 37:01)

Mike Evans' return could bolster Tampa Bay, while the Giants continue to face quarterback instability with Tommy DeVito starting.

Texans vs. Titans (39:11 - 40:41)

Houston's offensive improvement, including Nico Collins' return, stands out. The Titans are described as unable to keep up.

Broncos vs. Raiders (40:41 - 42:11)

Denver's defense and Bo Nix's rookie performance are commended. The Raiders are framed as lacking cohesion.

Cardinals vs. Seahawks (42:11 - 43:11)

Arizona's fight for NFC West dominance is key. Kyler Murray's playmaking is seen as a challenge for Seattle's defense.

49ers vs. Packers (43:11 - 44:11)

The hosts praise Green Bay's grown-up performance last week, spotlighting Christian McCaffrey's consistency.

Eagles vs. Rams (44:11 - 47:11)

Philadelphia's elite defense faces a tough test against Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua. Rookie cornerback Quinyon Mitchell's stellar season is highlighted.

Ravens vs. Chargers (49:11 - 52:10)

Baltimore's strengths in clock management and running the ball are discussed, alongside the Chargers' inability to finish games effectively.

Closing Thoughts (52:10 - End)

The hosts wrap up with reflections on standout players and entertaining storylines.

This week on The Underdog NFL Show, Chris Horwedel and Mario Hines talk about the latest news from around the NFL as they hit on the Jaquan Brisker situation in Chicago and debate the top of this year's NFL Draft QB class as it stands right now.  After that, the guys turn their attention to Week 11 in the NFL and give their picks for each game against the spread.