Some partnerships feel transactional.
This one didn’t.

Pint Glass Football was built on a simple idea: football conversations should sound like the ones you actually want to have. Honest. Informed. Curious. The kind of discussions that happen over a beer, not a hot take.

Props.Cash was built on a similar belief — that betting player props shouldn’t rely on guesswork, gut feelings, or whatever trend happens to be floating around social media that day. It should be rooted in data, context, and preparation.
That shared philosophy is why Props.Cash is now the Presenting Sponsor of Pint Glass Football.

This isn’t just a logo placement or a promo code. It’s a partnership rooted in approach — how football is discussed, how information is processed, and how fans are empowered to think a little deeper about the game.

A Podcast Built on Substance, Not NoisePint Glass Football has carved out its space by doing the opposite of what dominates most football coverage. Instead of chasing outrage or viral clips, the show leans into analysis, perspective, and guests who actually know the sport — writers, analysts, and former players who live in the details.

It’s football talk for listeners who want more than surface-level debate. And as the show has grown, so has the responsibility to align with partners who match that standard.
That’s where Props.Cash enters the picture.

What Props.Cash Actually Does — and Why It MattersProps.Cash isn’t a sportsbook. It doesn’t place bets or sell picks. Instead, it functions as a research engine for player props, helping users scan thousands of props across sportsbooks to quickly identify the highest-value opportunities.

At the core of the platform is context — the thing most bettors overlook.
Props.Cash delivers real-time roster intel, tracking injuries, lineup changes, and matchup dynamics so users can see how absences or returns actually affect player performance. Advanced filters allow users to zero in on specific angles quickly, while correlated player props reveal how often other props hit when a player’s line goes over — uncovering relationships most bettors never see.

Coverage spans NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, college football, college basketball, and the WNBA, making it a year-round tool rather than a single-sport solution.
But the platform is only part of the story.

Beyond the Tool: Content That EducatesProps.Cash has also invested heavily in education and original content. Through blog.props.cash, the company publishes written analysis, trend breakdowns, and research-driven insights designed to help bettors understand why certain edges exist — not just that they do.

On YouTube, Props.Cash produces the NFL Edge Report, a recurring series that breaks down weekly matchups, trends, and prop angles using real data and context. It’s content built to inform, not overwhelm — and it aligns naturally with the type of audience Pint Glass Football serves.

Together, the platform, blog, and video content position Props.Cash as more than a betting tool. It’s a full ecosystem for smarter preparation.

Why This Partnership Makes SenseFor Pint Glass Football, bringing on Props.Cash as a Presenting Sponsor wasn’t about monetization alone. It was about alignment.

​“Props.Cash fits exactly what we’re about,” said Brad Fowler, host of the Pint Glass Football Podcast. “We’ve always tried to have smarter football conversations without the noise. Props.Cash brings that same mindset to player prop research — it’s thoughtful, data-driven, and built for people who actually want to understand what they’re doing.”

For listeners, the partnership means access to tools and content that mirror the depth of the conversations happening on the podcast — not distractions from them.

What Listeners GetAs part of the partnership, Pint Glass Football listeners receive an exclusive benefit: 25% off their first month of Props.Cash by using promo code PGF25.

The partnership will be integrated across Pint Glass Football episodes, YouTube content, social media, and the website — not as interruptions, but as extensions of the show’s core mission.

A Signal of What’s NextIn an industry crowded with ads, picks, and promises, partnerships like this stand out because they feel intentional.

Props.Cash becoming the Presenting Sponsor of Pint Glass Football signals a commitment from both sides: to smarter analysis, better preparation, and football coverage that respects its audience.

This isn’t just about betting.
It’s about understanding the game — and the numbers behind it — a little better.
And for Pint Glass Football and Props.Cash, it’s just the beginning

The Senior Bowl has long been one of the most important evaluation checkpoints in the NFL Draft process. With prospects competing against top-level talent in front of NFL decision-makers, strong performances in Mobile can dramatically reshape draft boards.

This year’s Senior Bowl practices once again separated contenders from pretenders. Several prospects didn’t just hold their own — they elevated their stock with standout weeks that forced scouts to take notice. Here are the players who caught my attention and look like legitimate draft risers following their performances in Mobile.

Bud Clark — Safety, TCUBud Clark entered the Senior Bowl with strong college production on his résumé, but his week in Mobile confirmed that his skill set translates against NFL-caliber competition. Over four seasons at TCU, Clark recorded 15 interceptions (two returned for touchdowns), 21 pass breakups, and 201 tackles, and those ball skills were on full display throughout the week.

Clark consistently flashed in coverage, including a rep where he dropped back over the top to haul in an interception and another where he broke up a would-be touchdown during one-on-one drills. His versatility stood out, as did his energy level — Clark won most of his reps in both isolated drills and team periods.

By the end of the week, Clark had established himself as one of the most impressive defensive performers at the Senior Bowl and a safety whose stock should continue to rise as teams value his playmaking ability and versatility.

Kyle Louis — Linebacker, PittsburghIf there was one player who stole the show in Mobile, it was Kyle Louis. The Pittsburgh linebacker had arguably the best week of any prospect at the Senior Bowl and consistently made game-changing plays in practice.

Louis recorded three interceptions in pass coverage, showcasing elite instincts, quick reaction skills, and an outstanding motor. He looked comfortable matching up in space and routinely disrupted throwing lanes, a skill set that is increasingly valuable in today’s NFL.

Entering the week, Louis was often projected as a fourth- or fifth-round pick. After his performance in Mobile, he now looks like a legitimate second-round candidate. His combination of agility, instincts, and competitiveness makes him one of the biggest risers of the entire draft process so far.

Max Iheanachor — Offensive Tackle, Arizona StateArizona State offensive tackle Max Iheanachor looked every bit the part of an NFL lineman in Mobile. At 6-foot-6, 325 pounds, he paired ideal size with surprisingly quick, light feet throughout the week.

Iheanachor consistently impressed during one-on-one pass-rush drills, where his strong hands and balance allowed him to neutralize speed and power rushers alike. Despite being a younger prospect with room to grow, his consistency stood out — he performed well throughout the week and carried that momentum into the Senior Bowl game.

Once viewed primarily as a third-round prospect, Iheanachor may have pushed himself into first-round consideration. His blend of size, athleticism, and upside makes him one of the more intriguing offensive line prospects in this year’s draft.

Ted Hurst — Wide Receiver, Georgia StateTed Hurst used the Senior Bowl to answer one of the biggest questions facing small-school prospects: Can he do it against top competition? The answer in Mobile was a resounding yes.

Hurst was one of the most impressive wide receivers at the event, consistently making plays against defensive backs from Power Four programs. He delivered multiple highlight moments, including a one-handed contested touchdown catch during Monday’s practice, and repeatedly showed the ability to separate at the top of his routes.

At 6-foot-3, 207 pounds, Hurst brings a big frame, big hands, and arguably the best release of any receiver at the Senior Bowl. He also showcased legitimate deep speed, reaching 20.33 miles per hour according to Zebra Technologies tracking — one of the fastest recorded speeds in Mobile.

After posting 127 receptions, 1,960 yards, and 15 touchdowns over the past two seasons at Georgia State, Hurst entered the week as a Day 2 prospect and could climb even higher if he tests well at the NFL Combine.

Kaelon Black — Running Back, IndianaKaelon Black wasted no time turning heads in Mobile, arriving at the Senior Bowl just days after helping Indiana win a National Championship. That decision alone spoke volumes about his competitiveness — and his play backed it up.

Built at 5-foot-10, 215 pounds, Black showed a quick burst hitting the hole and consistently ran with power and urgency. He bowled over defenders, pushed piles, and finished runs with authority throughout the week. Black also stood out in the passing game, showing soft hands and versatility.

Projected as a late-round pick entering the week, Black’s physical running style and toughness could force teams to re-evaluate his draft range. His willingness to compete immediately after a long championship run only reinforced the edge and mindset NFL teams covet.

Final ThoughtsThe Senior Bowl remains one of the most valuable stops on the NFL Draft calendar, and this year’s practices in Mobile reshaped the outlook for several prospects. Players like Bud Clark and Kyle Louis proved they belong among the draft’s fastest risers, while others like Max Iheanachor and Ted Hurst showed the upside that can push them into earlier rounds.
With the NFL Combine still ahead, these prospects now carry momentum into the next phase of the draft process — and if their performances in Mobile are any indication, their names won’t stay under the radar for long.

-Brad Fowler, Pint Glass Football

College football, investigative journalism, and accountability collide in ESPN’s most powerful 30 for 30 Podcast series to date.
Some stories in sports never really end. They linger. They sit unresolved, carried by families, teammates, and communities who never received answers. The murder of Bryan Pata is one of those stories. And with Murder at The U, ESPN’s 30 for 30 Podcasts isn’t just revisiting history—it’s showing how journalism can still change it.

Premiering February 12, the seven-part investigative podcast series is hosted by ESPN investigative reporter Paula Lavigne, with reporting from Dan Arruda and Scott Frankel. It reexamines the 2006 murder of University of Miami defensive tackle Bryan Pata, a case that remained cold for more than a decade before ESPN reporters began digging into what went wrong and why justice had taken so long.

Pata was just 22 years old. A senior. A top NFL prospect. A hometown hero. His future felt limitless until it was taken from him one November night after practice, when he was shot and killed outside his Miami apartment complex. The crime shocked the college football world, but despite national attention, an arrest never came. His family was left waiting. And waiting. And waiting.

That silence is where this story truly begins.

Nearly eleven years later, a team of ESPN journalists started reexamining the case. What they uncovered wasn’t just unanswered questions about who killed Bryan Pata, but a trail of apparent missteps, missed opportunities, and a system that had quietly allowed the investigation to stagnate. Their reporting went beyond storytelling. It forced transparency. It included a lawsuit against the Miami-Dade Police Department to open records. And ultimately, it helped reignite a case many had assumed would never move again.

That work led to the arrest of one of Pata’s former teammates, Rashaun Jones, who now awaits trial.

This is what separates Murder at The U from most true crime podcasts. It isn’t just reflective. It’s active. The reporting itself becomes part of the story. The journalists aren’t observers. They’re participants in the pursuit of accountability.

“Our journey with this story went from possibly finding out more about who killed Pata to figuring out why the Miami-Dade Police Department wasn’t able to make an arrest,” Lavigne said. “We found a series of apparent missteps and missed opportunities, and we wanted to hold the investigators accountable.”

That shift—from crime-solving to institutional accountability—is what makes this series feel different. It isn’t content built around tragedy. It’s journalism that challenges power structures that failed a family and a community.

For college football fans, this story also forces a reckoning with the environment surrounding the sport during the Hurricanes’ turbulent mid-2000s era. Episode descriptions reveal a program marked by chaos, violence, and instability. From preseason shootings to on-field brawls, Miami’s 2006 season reflected a culture spiraling beyond control. And while football wasn’t the cause of Pata’s murder, the series asks important questions about how environment, access, and celebrity intersected in his life.

The episode titles alone show the ambition of the storytelling:

• Chillin’ with the Canes introduces the crime and its lingering aftermath.
  
• An Execution explores the violent culture surrounding the program.
  
• Everybody’s a Suspect pulls back the curtain on Pata’s life beyond football.
  
• The Teammate confronts the uncomfortable reality of an accusation within the locker room.
  
• We Know Who Did It shows the reporters pushing back against silence.
  
• An Arrest details how journalism helped force movement after 15 years of waiting.
  

And a seventh episode will arrive after the conclusion of the trial, bringing rare real-time closure to an investigative podcast series.

Dan Arruda described the project as a long, difficult pursuit:
“Through it all, we kept our focus on the Pata family and the ongoing grief they have endured for 19 years since Bryan’s murder. Ultimately, our hope is that this podcast honors Bryan’s legacy and brings the Pata family one step closer to healing.”

That’s the heart of this series. Bryan Pata is not a statistic. He isn’t a plot device. He is present in every part of this story.

Preeti Varathan, ESPN Producer and Head of 30 for 30 Podcasts, captured it perfectly:
“This may be a series about what happened once Bryan Pata died, but in it, he is very much alive.”

That line alone explains why this project matters.

Murder at The U represents sports media at its highest form: journalism that serves truth, accountability, and humanity.

ESPN’s 30 for 30 Podcasts have always set the gold standard for long-form sports storytelling. This series raises that bar even higher. It reminds us that when sports journalism is done right, it doesn’t just document history. It shapes it.

The first two episodes of Murder at The U premiere February 12, with new episodes dropping Tuesdays and Thursdays. It will be available on ESPN.com, the ESPN App, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, YouTube, iHeart, and wherever podcasts are found.

This isn’t just something to listen to.
It’s something to witness.

ESPN has partnered with Words + Pictures on Saban, a new multi-part docuseries chronicling the life, legacy, and seminal impact of the most successful college football coach of all time, Nick Saban. Directed by Russell Dinallo and produced by Connor Schell, Libby Geist, Aaron Cohen, Alexa Conway, and Tom Rinaldi, with Gabe Honig as co-executive producer and showrunner, the series tells the story of Saban’s extraordinary career—including his 17 seasons at Alabama, where he led the Crimson Tide to six national titles and reestablished the program as the preeminent force in college football.

​The series promises to peel back the curtain on the long-closely guarded world of Saban, with hundreds of hours of never-before-seen locker room and practice footage, plus behind-the-scenes moments from his time at Alabama, LSU, Michigan State, and the Miami Dolphins. Present-day interviews with Saban and his wife, the legendary Ms. Terry Saban, reveal the personal influence that helped shape his success as a coach and leader.

“With my coaching days behind me, Ms. Terry and I have been doing a lot of reflection and realized we were ready to tell our story,” Saban said. “The team at Words + Pictures has encouraged me to really look back not just at my time at Alabama, but every stop along the way…consider the process which made it happen.”

From 2007–2023, Saban won 206 games and brought six national championships to Alabama. In 17 years at the helm, the Crimson Tide lost more than two SEC games only twice. Prior to that, he went 48–16 with a national title at LSU, posted a 34–24-1 mark at Michigan State (1995–99), and went 9–2 in his only season at Toledo.

What made Saban extraordinary was his ability to adapt and evolve. Early Alabama teams relied on a grind-it-out run game and a big, physical defense. As offenses shifted to spread and up-tempo styles, Saban adjusted, fielding faster, more versatile defensive units capable of defending high-powered passing attacks. He also built a reputation for hiring elite assistants, many of whom went on to high-profile head-coaching jobs. On the player side, he created a pipeline to the NFL, with 49 first-round draft picks (44 from Alabama alone), and consistently developed some of college football’s best recruiting classes.

Saban deserves to be seen as the greatest coach in college football history. No coach has ever matched his relentless drive, his meticulous approach, or his ability to win consistently at the highest level. Seven national championships—six of them at Alabama—a stack of SEC titles, multiple Heisman winners—the sheer volume of success is staggering. Alabama was a spectacular mess when he arrived and became the greatest dynasty in the sport’s history when he left.

Featuring more than 30 hours of interviews with Saban and 80+ interviews with players, coaches, rivals, and observers, the docuseries explores “The Process”—his famed approach to coaching—and offers a rare look at how he became the most influential figure in modern college football.

“There will never be another Nick Saban,” said Connor Schell, CEO of Words + Pictures. “He’s a football genius, a singular leader, and a true icon…attention to detail and process has added up to an incredible journey and legacy.”

For fans of Alabama, college football, or coaching excellence, this series promises to reveal the man behind the wins and the mindset that built one of the greatest dynasties in sports history.

NFL Week 5 closes with a primetime AFC showdown as the 3-1 Jacksonville Jaguars host the 2-2 Kansas City Chiefs on Monday Night Football. The Chiefs have won 2 straight after starting the season 0-2, while the Jaguars are coming off a big win over the 49ers. Both teams have playoff ambitions and are looking to make an early-season statement.

Jaguars Finding Their Identity
While much of the spotlight has been on Trevor Lawrence, the Jaguars’ 3-1 start hasn’t come because of quarterback play. Lawrence has been inconsistent and remains the most volatile part of this team. Instead, Jacksonville has leaned heavily on its elite offensive line and powerful rushing attack.

The Jaguars rank 4th in the NFL in rushing offense (144.0 yards per game), with Travis Etienne leading the way. Their offensive line is grading among the league’s best in both run blocking and pass protection, giving the team a consistent identity regardless of Lawrence’s ups and downs.

Defensive Playmakers Emerging
Jacksonville’s defense has been just as crucial. Linebacker Devin Lloyd shares the NFL lead with three interceptions, while cornerback Jourdan Lewis has added two more picks. Four other Jaguars defenders, including former Chiefs draft pick Eric Murray, have recorded an interception this season. On the ground, the Jaguars have been equally tough. They rank 4th in the NFL against the run, holding opponents to just 82.8 rushing yards per game.

Chiefs’ Offensive Challenges
At 2-2, the Chiefs’ biggest concern has been balance. Three weeks into the season, the offense hadn’t found its rhythm. Travis Kelce is no longer a reliable target for Patrick Mahomes. In Week 4, the offense finally showed signs of life — but that performance had more to do with playing a historically bad Ravens defense that is injury-riddled.

Kansas City has struggled to run the ball effectively, and now they face one of the league’s top rushing defenses. If the Chiefs are forced to lean entirely on Mahomes, it could be difficult — especially with the forecast calling for rain showers that could slow down the passing attack. That weather factor, combined with Jacksonville’s ability to create turnovers, sets up a potentially tough night for the Chiefs’ offense.

Betting Outlook
This matchup looks like the right spot for Jacksonville. They’re at home, catching the hook, and have clear edges in both the running game and run defense. With weather conditions potentially neutralizing the Chiefs’ passing attack, the Jaguars’ physical style and turnover production give them a strong case to cover — and possibly pull off the outright win.

My Pick: Jaguars +3.5
-Brad Fowler, Pint Glass Football

The 2025 college football season is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory. With elite quarterbacks, loaded defenses, and rising programs across every conference, this Top 25 captures the national landscape heading into Week Zero.

1. Texas
The Arch Manning era officially begins, and expectations couldn’t be higher. With elite skill position talent and a favorable SEC schedule, the Longhorns enter 2025 as the most complete team in college football.

2. Ohio State
The defending national champs return the best wide receiver corps in the country and reload on defense. Former five-star QB Julian Sayin steps into the spotlight, and all eyes will be on how the new coordinators keep the Buckeyes at the top.

3. Penn State
Drew Allar returns at quarterback with one of the top running back duos in the nation. Having Jim Knowles on staff gives the defense a significant edge — he's arguably the top defensive coordinator in the nation.

4. Georgia
QB Gunnar Stockton takes the reins of a reloaded roster. Georgia’s defense remains stacked with NFL talent, but a tough SEC slate will put this team to the test.

5. Clemson
Quarterback Cade Klubnik leads a dynamic offense with the most returning production in the country. A revamped defense under a new coordinator could be the final piece for a title run.

6. Notre Dame
Notre Dame returns a balanced, playoff-ready roster. With Marcus Freeman emerging as one of the nation’s top head coaches, the Irish are well-positioned for another deep postseason run.

7. Oregon
Speed, depth, and experience define this Ducks squad. With elite athletes across the board and a favorable schedule, Oregon is a true Playoff threat.

8. LSU
Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier is back to lead an offense stacked with transfer talent. If the Tigers can navigate a tough SEC schedule, they’ll be in the title mix.

9. Alabama
Whether it’s Ty Simpson, Austin Mack, or five-star freshman Keelon Russell, Alabama needs one to emerge as a star — the Tide have the pieces, but a title run depends on elite quarterback play.

10. Illinois
A surprise riser after a strong spring, Illinois enters 2025 with major momentum. The defense is elite, and belief is building in Champaign as the Illini aim for their best season in decades.

11. Texas A&M
Dual-threat quarterback Marcel Reed headlines a team looking to finally meet its high expectations. Consistency remains the key to unlocking this roster’s true potential.

12. Tennessee
The Volunteers boast a strong defense and a potentially explosive offense, though they’ll need to settle the quarterback transition quickly to keep pace in the SEC.

13. Michigan
A new era begins with 5-star Bryce Underwood at quarterback. The Wolverines still possess an elite defense and the overall talent to stay in the Big Ten hunt.

14. South Carolina
LaNorris Sellers leads an offense brimming with upside. The Gamecocks face a tough schedule, but there’s growing belief this could be a breakthrough year.

15. Miami (FL)
The addition of QB Carson Beck gives Miami stability at QB. Still plenty of talent on hand to fuel another strong run at the program’s first-ever ACC championship.

16. Ole Miss
Lane Kiffin continues to work his magic in the transfer portal. The Rebels are loaded with offensive firepower and have legit College Football Playoff aspirations.

17. Arizona State
Fresh off a Big 12 championship, the Sun Devils return a dangerous QB-WR duo and have breakout potential once again.

18. Kansas State
Led by dynamic quarterback Avery Johnson, the Wildcats enter the season as Big 12 favorites. Head coach Chris Klieman has built a program rooted in toughness, discipline, and week-to-week consistency.

19. Florida
The Gators boast a deep, experienced roster capable of competing with anyone — but their true ceiling hinges on DJ Lagway emerging as a next-level quarterback.

20. USC
USC has to capitalize on a soft schedule this season. While this isn’t a team built to win the Big Ten just yet, there’s enough talent on the roster to finish 10-2.

21. Washington
The Huskies could be a surprise team this season. Quarterback Demond Williams flashed serious potential last year. Head coach Jedd Fisch is building the program with a core of promising top-end talent.

22. Boise State
Boise State should dominate the Mountain West. But to reach the College Football Playoff, they can’t afford more than one loss—especially with tough road games at South Florida and Notre Dame.

23. Oklahoma
Oklahoma upgraded its QB position with John Mateer and added RB Jadyn Ott, while Brent Venables leads a talented defense. The big question: can they meet the 2025 expectations?

24. Nebraska
Highly touted quarterback Dylan Raiola returns to lead a revamped offensive system. After an offseason of momentum and national buzz, the Cornhuskers are aiming to return to national relevance in 2025.

25. Iowa State
​Iowa State is a legitimate Big 12 contender, returning 12 starters led by standout junior QB Rocco Becht. Led by three-time Big 12 Coach of the Year Matt Campbell, expectations are high.

In an NFL draft class loaded with offensive line talent, few prospects bring the blend of size, power, and versatility that Arizona’s Jonah Savaiinaea offers. At 6-foot-4 and just under 330 pounds, Savaiinaea possesses an ideal frame for a player who can seamlessly transition between right tackle and right guard at the next level. With his thick, well-proportioned build, he looks primed to carry NFL weight without losing any of the athleticism that makes him such an intriguing prospect. He could even add another eight pounds comfortably and still maintain his mobility and power.

Surprising Athleticism and Run-Blocking DominanceOne of the first things that stands out about Savaiinaea is his ability in the run game. For his size, he is surprisingly fast and quick, showing an impressive initial burst off the line of scrimmage. He consistently fires off the ball with good pad level, and when he gets his hands underneath a defender’s shoulder pads, those defenders are getting folded. His reach-blocking technique is excellent, allowing him to seal off defenders and create running lanes effectively.

Additionally, his raw power at the point of attack makes him an ideal fit for a run-heavy scheme. Whether he’s working in tandem on double teams or mauling defenders one-on-one, Savaiinaea’s strength and hand placement allow him to create movement in the trenches. His two-hand punch is devastating, knocking defenders off balance and opening up lanes for ball carriers. His double-team work is also a strong aspect of his game, as he excels in working with his fellow linemen to clear space efficiently.

Pass Protection: Strengths and WeaknessesSavaiinaea’s pass protection is a bit of a mixed bag. On the positive side, his kick slide is better than some have given him credit for. He gets solid depth, which will help him hold up against speed rushers who favor the outside. His experience in Arizona’s pass-heavy offense has given him a wealth of reps in pass protection, which should translate well to the NFL level.

However, there are concerns about his ability to counter inside moves. While his kick slide looks effective, there is some concern that he may be telegraphing it, making it easier for rushers to set him up and cut back inside. This is a potential issue because, in the NFL, elite pass rushers can fake outside and quickly redirect inside, which could be a problem if he struggles to adjust. His change of direction when dealing with inside counters is something teams will want to evaluate closely.

Another minor concern is his pad level, which is not always consistent. While he can make up for some of these technical inconsistencies with his sheer size and strength, improving this aspect of his game would help him maximize his leverage and control against defenders.

Projection and Best FitUltimately, Savaiinaea looks like a player who could start at right tackle in the NFL from day one but may also project well at right guard. His size, power, and run-blocking prowess make him an attractive option for teams that prioritize a physical ground game. While he has some technique flaws in pass protection, his experience and raw ability suggest he can be a reliable presence on the offensive line with the right coaching.

For teams looking for a powerful, tone-setting lineman who can provide flexibility along the offensive front, Savaiinaea is a name to watch come draft day. His blend of physicality, movement skills, and high-level experience in both pass protection and run blocking gives him the potential to be an impactful player in the league for years to come.

​By D. Smith, Offensive Line Analyst, Pint Glass Football

Super Bowl 59 is here! Can the Chiefs make history with a three-peat, or will the Eagles get their redemption? Hosts Brad Fowler and Alex Higdon deliver an extensive breakdown of key matchups, X-factors, and betting picks for the big game. We analyze the Chiefs' run defense, Philly’s ground attack, Mahomes under pressure, and the Eagles' dominant D-line. Plus, we’ve got multiple prop bet picks and our final predictions—can Saquon Barkley and the Philly defense be the difference-maker, or do Mahomes and Andy Reid find a way yet again? Don’t miss this in-depth Super Bowl preview!

You can listen to Pint Glass Football on your smart speakers! Simply say "Alexa, play the latest episode of the Pint Glass Football Podcast" or "Hey Google, play the latest episode of the Pint Glass Football Podcast."

Connect with Us
Get exclusive articles and subscribe to our FREE newsletter at Pint Glass Football.
Subscribe to our YouTube channel for exclusive video content: Pint Glass Football on YouTube.

Sponsors:
Underdog Fantasy
Underdog Fantasy is the easiest place to play fantasy sports! Win up to 20X your money in a single night. Sign up today and use promo code PGF to get your Special Pick + First Time Deposit offer up to $250 in bonus cash!

SeatGeek
SeatGeek offers the best seats at the best prices. Never worry about overpaying for tickets again. Each ticket has a 0 to 10 score so you know if you're getting a good deal! Download the SeatGeek app and enter code PGFPOD for $20 off your first ticket purchase.

BetAlytics
BetAlytics is a predictive sports betting software platform that helps you win more single bets and parlays. Take back the advantage from the sportsbooks. Get 25% off any package with promo code PGF. Visit BetAlytics to learn more.

Bettor Edge
Bettor Edge is a sports betting platform that lets you create your own betting lines and prices for real money betting positions with no sportsbook fees. Use promo code PGF to receive a FREE $20 on your first order at bettoredge.com.

Zencastr
Zencastr is the ultimate all-in-one podcasting platform. Record, edit, distribute, and monetize all from one place. Use our special link Zencastr and code PGFP to save 30% off your first three months of Zencastr Professional. #madeonzencastr

Transcript:
​Welcome to the Pint Glass Football Podcast.
0:15
I'm your host, Brad Fowler. What's up, PGF Nation? Super Bowl 59 is here. We've got the full breakdown for you guys. The Chiefs are chasing that historic three-peat. The Eagles are looking for redemption. We're going to cover the key matchups, X-Factors, and of course, we'll have our best bets.
0:36
I've got a bunch of prop bets for you guys as well. Joining me as always, of course, though, my co-host, Alex Higdon. Alex, what is going on?
0:44
Yeah, hey, Brad, I know we missed a week. Everybody's been like, hey, where you guys been? We had some personal matters to tend to, but we're back, ready to break down this Super Bowl matchup.
0:54
Yeah, personal stuff going on. Life happens, unfortunately, sometimes. And, you know, once in a while, there's things in life that are bigger than being on a podcast. Just to be honest, we know that. Family comes first. So I apologize, guys, for the short hiatus. But if you guys haven't already subscribed to the newsletter, I hope you did.
1:13
I did drop an article for you guys during the week just to keep a little bit of content out there. I put out some grades on all these new NFL coaching hires. So definitely go check that out, pintglassfootball.com. If you haven't already, you can see how I graded each one of these coaching hires.
1:30
You might be surprised by who got A's and who didn't. I'll just say one team got an F. You might be able to guess who that was, but definitely go check that out. But Alex, it's time to shift here to the biggest game of the year, the biggest game in all of sports, Super Bowl 59.
1:49
Kansas City Chiefs, Philadelphia Eagles, they were kind of on a collision course all year, but it feels different right now, Alex, because the Kansas City Chiefs are now public enemy number one. And look, the detractors, they hate the way they walk, they hate the way they talk, they hate the way they dress, and They hate Mahomes' wife.
2:08
They hate Taylor Swift. Look, Kelsey isn't taking it serious anymore, it seems like. Mahomes is flopping. The refs are giving them all the flags. Look, I get it. Hate or love them, they're going for three straight.
2:22
I know I get it. You hated the Yankees. You hate the Warriors or Lakers or whoever's on a dynasty run at any point in time, whichever respect the sport. You hated the Patriots and Tom Brady and Bill Belichick and everything. So I think this is the Kansas City. going into that phase.
2:40
And to be honest with you, people say that they're tired or they have fatigue. It's really hard to hate the Chiefs. You don't have Spygate. You don't have Tom Brady where people think he's arrogant or anything like that. So it's hard to hate because Andy Reid is like a what a Pillsbury dope boy that
2:59
walks around in Hawaiian shirts and want to eat cheeseburgers. But I guess, alas, they're into this where it's like I think it's more about fatigue. There's three P. I mean, hey, listen, I would like to see history, but I think that I think the hate is just more from fatigue.
3:14
Not that they hate any particular player or coach.
3:18
Yeah, and look, it's sports hate, right? It's different than real hate, of course. And that's what fans do. That's what people do. And I think you're right. I think you hit it on the head. I think there's a bit of fatigue here. You know, I think this team just winning and winning and winning and just, you know,
3:31
going for a third straight Super Bowl and being in these big games every single year, it feels like it kind of starts to wear you out a little bit unless you're a Chiefs fan. You know, it does get a little old. I think the Kelsey stuff with Taylor Swift has definitely annoyed a lot of people.
3:46
Look, myself included. I find it irritating every time there's a big play. We have to see her reaction to it. Pretty irritating if you're a football guy when we know that that's catering to a different audience of viewers. And I think the flags.
4:01
I think them getting the flags and all the talk around them getting all these flags – That is starting to get really noisy in the media and among fans. That seems irritating, too, to a lot of people. And, look, I get it because I talked about it recently.
4:16
I think it has gotten to the point where you've got to kind of question, like, why are they getting every call, it seems like. But if you can kind of get past that part of it, because, look, I don't think Philly, unless you're an Eagles fan, I don't know if they're the most likable team either, right?
4:29
Like, their coach... is yelling at fans. And there's a lot of people that are critical of him and his attitude and the whole demeanor. And let's face it, there's a history with Philly fans not exactly being the most classy. So I don't know if they're the most lovable team either. So this is a matchup.
4:48
It's kind of a weird matchup as far as there's not a lovable kind of national team in this one that people can put their arms around. But I do think we can put our arms around what could be a great, great matchup.
5:01
And I want to look at these different matchups and kind of look at this game in depth, Alex, because of course that's what we do here at PGF. None of this surface level stuff. We're going to go deep here. So for me, Alex, I want to start here. Kansas city's run defense,
5:16
I think could be a concern in this game because if we look at, if we go back just to that AFC championship game, They really struggled to contain James Cook. 85 yards, two touchdowns on 13 carries. Probably should have had a lot more carries in that game. And maybe that game plays out a little differently.
5:34
And here's another key thing I'm looking at, Alex. The Chiefs have really struggled this year against inside zone running schemes. And if you look at the Eagles, they're one of the best inside zone rushing teams in the NFL. I think there's no doubt about it that slowing down Saquon Barkley is an absolute
5:54
must for KC in this game.
5:56
Even just when you look at how the Eagles want to win and what their offense is about, they're at their best when they limit Jalen Hurts to 150 yards or less throwing the ball and they run. So obviously the game plan is defensively is, hey, man, stack the box and force Jalen Hurts to run.
6:14
I mean, excuse me, force Jalen Hurts to throw. Obviously, you have to worry about him running, but force him to throw and see what happens. You're more than likely going to get him to force a turnover. But yeah, obviously, stopping Saquon Barkley is number one in the game plan for what Steve Spegmola has
6:32
set up coming into this week.
6:34
Yeah, and I think it goes to something else that you just talked about here, because I think we know Jalen Hurts is limited as a passer, and we know they want to run the ball, and they want to continue to run the ball, and they want to use Jalen Hurts in the running game,
6:48
and they want to continually be ahead of schedule. They want to be in second and third and short. That is really where the Eagles are most dangerous. And the key to really slowing down this team is to force them into third and long. But that's a lot easier said than done.
7:03
Because if you can get Jalen Hurts in obvious passing situations, he's really struggled under pressure this year. And that's part of his game that has actually regressed significantly, Alex. I dove into the numbers yesterday. He's taken a big step back this year when under pressure.
7:20
And if you look at the Chiefs, they rank 13th in the NFL in blitz rate. So Steve Spagnuolo, we know this is a guy who not only dials up the blitz a lot, but he has an ability to really time the blitz. And he really excels at scheming those unblocked blitzers. And getting those free rushers.
7:40
But you've got to get them in third and long to really have that effect. If they're constantly in second and third and short, it makes it really hard for Spagnuolo to kind of utilize those types of blitzes.
7:51
That's the, as they say, the game within the game, right? Where you're looking at all these little intricacies of the game and this inside zone. And it's how do we obviously seal off Chris Jones? Because that's the guy that's going to cause the havoc.
8:05
If they try to do anything on the inside and trying to seal him off to get to the runs that they want to get to, and how can they stop Saquon Barkley? But I just think that what they're going to do, and I think there's going to be some key moments.
8:18
The game within the game is going to come on critical third down plays to me, because I always say, if you can withstand, it's like Mike Tyson's punch out of those of us. I'm aging myself, but it is what it is. if you can withstand the barrage that Saquon Barkley, because he's a home run hitter,
8:36
he can get a hundred yards, but there's a difference between getting a hundred, 150 yards, but there's a difference between your longest run being 16 yards and your longest run having a 50 yard run here and a 68 yard run here. If you can limit that,
8:50
and they methodically have to go down the field as opposed to big home runs, I think that's what their Chiefs are going to try to do. It's not about limiting Saquon Barkley and not letting him get the home run. Because if I'm not mistaken, the Chiefs are the surest tackling team.
9:07
If they're not, they're definitely top three surest tackling team in the league. So any of those normal plays that Saquon may bounce off of, like he did against Washington and a couple other teams, I don't think he'll be bouncing around the place like a pinballer than running free against the Chiefs.
9:23
Saquon Barkley is the most important player in this game on both sides of the field. And the reason I say that is because his success is so pivotal for the Eagles to win this game, and it's so pivotal for Kansas City to limit him if they're going to win this game.
9:38
I just think he is such a key, key part. And when you look at this Philly ground game, so they ranked second in the NFL in rushing yards and touchdowns. And look, it's not just Barkley. It's Jalen Hurts, too. And we know how much of a threat he can be on the ground,
9:54
especially in those third and fourth and shorts, the tush push, and just keeping drives alive and just moving the chains. This is a team that averaged just under five yards per carry. And to your point about Saquon Barkley and the home run hitting ability,
10:08
Saquon Barkley led all running backs this year with 10 touchdown runs of 20 or more yards. That's more than twice as many as any other running back in the NFL. So you want to talk about big time home run hitting the Billy? Absolutely. This guy gets to the second level. It's lights out.
10:25
You're not going to bring this guy down. That's really the danger. You cannot let this guy get going and get into the open field because once that happens, it's over. I mean, he's been so good and so explosive, and the Eagles led the NFL this year in time of possession,
10:38
and I think that really aligns with what they want to do and their game plan is just to have those long, clock-consuming drives. That's going to be the key to this game is, once again, slowing down Saquon Barkley, limiting his damage that he does in this game, and trying to make Philly one-dimensional.
10:56
Everybody has tried to do it this year. Nobody has really been successful. So that's going to be a major, major challenge. I think it's really going to come down to that front four for the Chiefs, those linebackers, Nick Bolton and company, Chris Jones and company, Carl Loftus. These guys, it's got to be a team effort.
11:13
And they're going to have to really try to slow down this running attack because I think if Philly can run the ball consistently this game, I think they have a pack to win this game. But another key matchup for me, Alex, in this game, the Eagles defensive front versus the Chiefs offensive line.
11:29
I think this could be a potential mismatch in this game. How do you see the matchup here? And do you think that the Eagles can find success against this Chiefs line that really has been spotty this year?
11:44
So the Chiefs O-line, the strength of the Chiefs O-line is the interior, right? It's the right guard, center, left guard. Tooney, Creed Humphries, and Trey Smith. We know Jawan Taylor, and they've been having issues at the left tackle so much that they've moved Joe Tooney from that left guard position out to left tackle. Now,
12:02
it remains to be seen how they're going to run that because the strength of the Eagles defensive line is in the interior. They don't get a lot of real pressure from the outside. I know Brandon Graham, says he may suit up. We don't know still. There's Nolan Smith out there. There's Bryce Huff out there.
12:19
Those guys haven't really been, you know, living up to the hype that people thought of though. Nolan Smith has flashed. It's really truly been coming from Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis. So that literally at that point, depending on what they do with the, at the, um, on the interior, um,
12:33
line for the Chiefs, that becomes strength against strength. I'm going to lean on those guys in these big games against Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis. And Jalen Carter, who hasn't seen this before, Jordan Davis, who's really just a run stuffer. I'm going to lean on the Chiefs offensive line there.
12:47
So I think in order for this to work, they're going to have to get their pass rush from the outside, depending, again, really putting emphasis on, I don't know how they're going to play Joe Tooney because he's been playing left tackle the last maybe five to six weeks, I think.
13:01
So if they kick him back inside, that's now, now you're going to get strength against strength. And I don't know about Nolan Smith and Bryce Huff on the outside, if they're going to be able to generate enough pass rush, if those guys in the middle are, you know, in the trenches battling.
13:16
Yeah. I think this could be a mismatch here because this Chiefs offensive line has really declined this season. Mahomes got sacked 36 times this year. That's by far the most in his career. And a lot of it has to do with those tackles. Those tackles were a problem this year.
13:32
And they're going up against a pass rushing defensive front from this Eagles team that is not only elite, but they're deep. And Nolan Smith has emerged as one of the best and most disruptive edge rushers in the NFL. Jalen Carter has become unblockable. I mean, this guy is a wrecking ball in the middle of this defensive line.
13:52
Guys like Josh Sweat, Milton Williams. I mean, this team is so deep. And they rotate guys. They stay fresh. I think this could be a real problem for them. I think the Chiefs are going to have to be able... to run the ball and take some pressure off Mahomes in this passing game.
14:07
Because kind of similarly to what we mentioned a minute ago with Jalen Hurts and trying to get them in third and longs, I really don't like the Chiefs here. I don't think it's favorable for them to be in third and long. Now, granted, I think Mahomes is obviously a much, much better quarterback. than Jalen Hurts.
14:21
But if you let this team get in third, or if you get this team in third and long situations and obvious pass situations, I think it could really spell problems for that Chiefs O-line. Now, what about some key individual matchups? Who are some matchups that you're circling, Alex,
14:36
that you really are watching for in this game that you think could really, you know, help decide this ballgame?
14:42
So here's my thing. Zach Bond is up for defensive player of the year. I know Cooper DeJount is a bigger guy. You may try to put him and try and bracket Travis Kelsey or try and have him take Travis Kelsey one-on-one a few times, but N'Kobe Dean is out.
14:58
So now Oren Burks and now you have possibly Jeremiah Trotter Jr. that's going to get a lot of snaps at those positions. And I can imagine that Andy Reid is licking his chops when he decides to go out there and I'm going to put these speed guys out there and Hollywood Brown out there or whatever,
15:14
maybe kick Xavier Worthy inside and cause a lot of confusion for a lot of these linebackers that are going to be on the field, which is where you can get exploited at because that, you know, Zach Bourne coming in definitely tore it up this year, well-deserved to be up for a defensive player of the year,
15:30
but he's only one guy. So it depends on what the Eagles do on their side, and I know that they've really upped the ante on their secondary side, bringing in Dujan as well as Quentin Mitchell, who was, as far as I'm concerned,
15:43
should be second in rookie of the year conversations for the most part for how he played. Going up against an elite play caller, a guy that designed, that sees something, that goes with his finger in the dirt and draws up plays, a la what he did against San Francisco the first time they met,
15:58
or if he goes and makes halftime adjustments and starts exploiting things. I have to take that into consideration. Nick Sirianni, Kellen Moore don't belong in the same room where Andy Reid and Spagnuolo are.
16:12
Yeah, I think coaching, absolutely no doubt about it. I think coaching, you have to give the edge here to Reed and Spags. You've got the best offensive mind in the game. You have the best defensive mind in the game. Now, Vic Fangio might very well be the second best defensive mind in the game.
16:27
So that's where this battle gets really fun. I think they, on paper, the Eagles still have the edge defensively, though. None of these wide receivers scare me for... for Mahomes and the Chiefs. I mean, this isn't an explosive offense at all. When you look at the matchups here with Darius Slay, Quinnia Mitchell, Cooper DeGene, Isaiah Rogers, C.J.
16:45
Gardner, Johnson, they have the secondary to absolutely slow down this attack that really hasn't been explosive all year. I think this is a game that probably leans towards the under, and I think both teams have the defense to make plays. Now, a pick six, a scoop and score fumble, something like that,
17:02
that could really be the difference in this game. It really could come down to A key play, a big turnover, something like that could really be the difference in this game because I really don't see either one of these quarterbacks lighting it up in this game.
17:16
Now, if we're going to go into a specific matchup that I'm really excited to watch, A.J. Brown versus Trent McDuffie. is going to be get your popcorn ready. Because what a matchup this is between two all-pro level players. And the thing I really like about this matchup is McDuffie is one of the rare
17:35
corners in this league that will travel. So I'll be shocked if he doesn't shadow A.J. Brown exclusively in this game. And I think the Chiefs, for two reasons, I think they're going to keep him mostly one-on-one with very little help. I think they have that level of trust in Trent McDuffie to begin with,
17:54
but I think they're also going to have so much focus on trying to slow down Barkley in this running attack that he's going to be on an island. Can the Eagles take advantage of some of those one-on-one shots downfield? That is going to be such a fun matchup.
18:08
Do we trust Jalen Hurts to make these plays? And that's where I come in. Even if it's a great call, I don't trust Jalen Hurts. I don't trust him because they don't trust him.
18:20
Yeah, I mean, between the two quarterbacks, it's clear, no doubt about it, who I trust more. Now, granted, Hurts did play pretty well the last time these teams played in the Super Bowl. And here's another key stat to watch here, because I talked about staying ahead of the chains in this game and how important it'll be.
18:36
I mentioned Jalen Hurts and how he's regressed as a passer, especially under pressure. He's really struggled. Well, Mahomes this year, his passer rating has dropped over 20 points this year. went under pressure, and he threw four interceptions when under pressure this season. So once again,
18:55
I think Philly being able to try to keep Mahomes in that offense one-dimensional I think is going to be pivotal in this game. I'm looking for Pacheco and Hunt. Those guys are going to have to be big in this game. I'm not saying that they have to be dominant. I don't think that'll happen.
19:11
I think this defense is too good for them to be dominant, but I think they're going to have to have balance to really slow down this pass rush and give Mahomes some easy opportunities down the field because I don't think this Kansas City team wants to be in third and long with these pass rushers up front.
19:28
Since he's transformed into this new Patrick Mahomes where he's trying not to make mistakes and trust his defense where he doesn't feel he has to go out there and make every play because the defense is now at an elite status where he can trust
19:42
that they'll get to stop or they'll even get a turnover and give the ball back to him. You know, so watching Patrick Mahomes, I think I've said it before. I think this is the best I've seen Patrick Mahomes. And when I say that means it's understanding the game that there's certain things that you can't do.
19:57
There's a lot of gunslingers because Patrick Mahomes initially coming out was a gunslinger. But there's a lot of things that gunslingers, they will still continue to try to make plays. no matter what. And in this instance, when Patrick Mahomes gets into the playoffs and then throughout the playoffs, continuing to the Super Bowl,
20:13
he curbs himself on how he plays the game. He doesn't take big time chances. However, he's making the big plays.
20:21
Yeah, he's clutch. There's no doubt about it. I mean, that's what makes this matchup so scary is because I think a lot of things on paper would actually point to the Eagles in this game. And And I went into this thinking that the Chiefs probably had the edge on paper. And quite frankly,
20:35
when I did the homework and really dove into this, it actually leans a lot more Philly. I think Philly has a lot more of an edge here on paper. But Holmes is kind of the ultimate X factor because as far as him being clutch and him being cool under pressure and making the big plays,
20:51
he's never been better. He's always had that clutch gene. But as a quarterback, I think he's actually regressed the last two years. He has not been able to elevate these receivers and elevate this passing game. Now, I think there's a reason why he's had to scramble more in this postseason than any other playoff run,
21:11
and I think it's because the plays down the field just aren't there. So that's something to watch for in this game, too, that is really interesting because we've seen him run so much. What do the Eagles do to combat that? How often do you see them spy Mahomes? How much attention are they going to pay to Mahomes,
21:28
especially in those certain longs where, look, most of his big plays have come on the ground than through the air in this postseason. But I said the word X factor. Alex, who's your X factor in this game?
21:41
Well, offensively, I'll say on the Chiefs side, offensively, it's going to be DeAndre Hopkins. I think he's been put on the shelf a little bit. I'll use that word. By Andy Reid, just waiting to pull out some of these plays that he's been wanting to pull out for him because he was with them for 10 games.
22:00
Three games over 50 yards. I'm looking at him and I'm saying to myself, okay, what does Andy Reid do? You know, one of our friends pointed out, Quick pointed out that they hadn't been using the end around a lot all season. And then all of a sudden against Buffalo, they pull it out.
22:14
All of a sudden against Buffalo, they pulled out that play with Piran that they didn't play. They went back because I went back and I watched a few people. Then I kind of charted over the last few games. He had not, they had not run that play.
22:25
They have been saving a lot of their plays and just really doing whatever they need to do over the past few weeks, hoping that they just continue to win and stay in position because they know, to your point, the receivers are just truly straight line guys. They don't have a route runner out there.
22:46
And then you pull out certain plays. You pull out the one play they did against the Bills with Juju Smith-Schuster. And those plays have just simply worked. It's just really on the defense to stop those plays or to figure out what's going on. And they simply have not been able to for now three seasons.
23:00
This Chiefs team is well-disciplined, well-coached, Aside from all the chatter that we keep hearing about the refs and everything, they're just disciplined. This is just obviously the Patriots 2.0. They're very disciplined and they execute at a very high level.
23:17
My X factor for the Chiefs is on the defensive side of the ball, and I think it's George Karloftis. Now, look, Chris Jones is going to get so much attention. We know that. He's basically a guy that demands a double team. But George Karloftis has been playing quietly at a very high level, nine tackles,
23:35
three sacks in the playoffs alone. So this is a guy who's really starting to come on, and I think he's going to be key in this game because I think they're going to need that edge pressure from him in some crucial situations. He's going to have to be a guy to watch in this game.
23:51
Now, my X factor for the Eagles is Dallas Goddard. I think that if you look at the numbers here, the chiefs are pretty average. I don't want to say they're bad. They're just kind of middle of the road versus tight ends. It's been one spot on this defense that you can really attack.
24:07
And I think once again, there's going to be so much focus on star stopping Saquon Barkley and, And the corners, of course, are going to have their hands full with even just the threat of A.J. Brown and Devontae Smith. It's going to leave some space in the middle of this field.
24:23
Dallas Goddard had a big game against Washington. I think he could be due for a big game here. I think he is a key player and an X factor to watch for the Eagles in this game.
24:34
Yeah, I can see that. And again, I think everything just comes down to how they're going to play the game. If you're telling me you're going to try and play everybody straight up and see what you can do against Saquon and leave a lot of one-on-ones on the outside with Jalen Watson and Trent McDuffie,
24:47
it'll be interesting to see how much room is truly there versus if they try to play their typical 4-3 defense or big nickel defense, whichever one they want to go with. You know what? Dallas Guard would be the X factor there because obviously A.J. Brown is going to draw attention. Devonta Smith is going to draw attention.
25:04
But on the Eagles side, I think that their X factor is going to be Jalen Hurts' legs. I think because they're going to make an emphasis to really put the clamps down on Saquon early, that that's going to give him... a lot of time to make some runs to the outside because everybody's going to really
25:22
be focused on Saquon and those I would I would me personally I would if I was Kelly Moore I would definitely have some of those bootlegs in there obviously play action is going to be a thing but I will have definitely have a lot of bootlegs to get him
25:33
outside on the on the edge by himself where he can use his legs to do something so I think specifically his not just Jalen Hurts Jalen Hurts legs will be the x-factor for the Eagles
25:44
If they can get the ground game going and Barkley can really be a threat on the ground, that is going to open up the play-action passing game for Jalen Hurts. And Jalen Hurts is one of the best play-action passers in the NFL. He has a top-five passer rating off of play-action. On the opposite side, the Chiefs
26:03
are one of the worst defenses in the NFL defending play-action passes. So that is something I am really watching for. But the only way you can get to those play-action plays is when you run the ball with success. So, once again, the ability to run the ball is going to be so big for Philly in this game.
26:22
We know... You said Jalen Hurts with his legs is always a threat, but I think if they can run the ball with the two of them and really stay ahead of the chains, that is going to set up some of those deep shots to guys like A.J. Brown, possibly Dallas Goddard over the middle, and Smith. So really,
26:37
really key here because that is something that this Chiefs defense has really struggled against. Did you know that Pint Glass Football is more than just this podcast? We have an exclusive newsletter. Sign up for free at pintglassfootball.com to receive articles and insights delivered straight to your inbox. But wait, there's more.
26:58
We're excited to announce our brand new YouTube channel. Not only can you listen to our podcast on YouTube, but you'll also find exclusive video content waiting for you. So hit the pause button right now and go subscribe to our newsletter and hit that subscribe button on YouTube to stay connected with the latest football news and our
27:20
exclusive content. Underdog fantasy is the easiest place to play fantasy sports. We personally love the pick'em game. Just pick between two and five players to build a pick'em entry. Pick whether your favorite players will have a higher or lower stat total in this week's game for a chance to win big.
27:41
You can win up to 20 times your money in a single night. Download the Underdog Fantasy app and sign up today with promo code PGF. That's promo code PGF to claim your special pick plus first-time deposit offer up to $250 in bonus cash. The official ticketing app of Pint Glass Football is now SeatGeek.
28:06
I can't recommend them enough, guys. I've been using SeatGeek for years. You want to go to a game this season? SeatGeek is here to take the confusion out of buying tickets, making sure you get the best seats at the best prices. With SeatGeek, you'll never have to worry about overpaying for tickets again. How?
28:25
They put a 0 to 10 score on each ticket, so you know you're getting a good deal. But here's the real game changer. You can get $20 off your first ticket purchase with the code PGFPOD. That's right, $20 off with code PGFPOD. This season, make every game day epic with SeatGeek.
28:47
Download the SeatGeek app and remember to enter the code PGFPOD to grab your $20 discount. Alex, we know the turnover battle is huge. I looked at these two teams and it's strength versus strength there because Philadelphia is plus eight in turnover differential in the playoffs. That is the second best ever entering a Super Bowl.
29:11
So pretty impressive what they've done there. And on the Chiefs side, they only have had one turnover in their last nine games. So they're doing an unbelievable job taking care of the ball as well. That Eagles defense, it has been taking the ball away as well as anybody in the league.
29:26
20 takeaways, 20 in their last six games. So once again, you've got strength on strength here. But I think who wins this turnover battle is going to be huge because I mentioned it a little bit ago. I think a pick six, a scoop and score, a big defensive play could be the difference in this game.
29:44
My thing is the game within the game. You know, where's Joe Tooney going to be playing? A player that nobody's thinking about. We're going to kick you back inside because that's where the biggest problem is. And we're going to trust, I guess,
29:57
the rookie from BYU out there or Wanya Morris out there on that left side and leave Jawan, you know, Jawan Taylor. Hopefully he's not kicking his leg up too early on the outside with those guys to see kind of what's happening there.
30:12
All right, let's make some betting picks here. Let's get into some prop bets because these are always fun, and we know Super Bowl Sunday is the biggest betting day of the year. So let's try to pick some winners here, Alex. I'll give you my first prop bet that I really like in this game.
30:27
Patrick Mahomes over 24.5 pass completions. I think they're going to have trouble running the ball, and I think Mahomes is going to have to throw more than they think going into this game. i liked the over on the completions for mahomes what do you think yeah i i actually
30:45
agree with that i think um death by a thousand cuts i think we're gonna see p ryan p ryan might be actual good prop bet i don't know what he's looking like on what you're looking at but p ryan might be actually a good prop bet you like p ryan over
30:57
on catches what's his what is the uh well yeah what is it i bet is that like what one and a half or two i'm gonna i'll take the over
31:04
I've got DeAndre Hopkins over 1.5 catches, and I like him over 11.5 yards receiving. I think he gets a couple balls in this game, and maybe one big play down the middle, key third down conversion, something in this game where I think he gets a splash play.
31:23
and gets over that 11.5, and I would not be surprised if he gets a couple catches. Like you said, he's been almost invisible, it feels like, in this offense. I think they find a way. I'm not saying he's going to be a Super Bowl MVP candidate or anything like that,
31:37
but I do think he's a guy that maybe sneaks into the stat line here and has some success in this game. I'll give you another prop I really like, Alex. How about Saquon Barkley over 2.5 catches?
31:49
Oh, yeah, I think that's easy. Real quick, just to take a step back, I would also take DeAndre Hopkins on an anytime touchdown. But yeah, definitely easily Saquon Barkley on a couple of dump-offs from Hurts for sure.
32:00
Yeah, what's the line on the anytime touchdown? What does that pay out? That's probably got to pay out pretty well.
32:06
It's plus 500 for DeAndre Hopkins.
32:09
You know what? Long shot bet, I like it. You know, you got to play some of these anytime touchdowns. And look, in the Super Bowl, It's weird how it works, but a lot of times it's not always the quote unquote star players that you think of. It's usually the third wide receiver. It's usually the backup tight end.
32:26
It's usually a guy that you're not really thinking of that tends to score in these games for some reason. And maybe that's just because the defense is so honed in on the quote unquote stars. Maybe that's why we see this so often in these big games. But yeah, I think a guy like DeAndre Hopkins,
32:40
kind of a forgotten man, I could see that for sure. Now here's another prop that I like here. Jalen Hurts, under 18.5 pass completions. And I also am going to take the under on 212.5 yards passing. And it's not even necessarily a bet against Hurts. I think they're going to have success running the ball here.
33:02
And I don't think they're going to have to throw that much. I think it's going to be pick your spots with Hertz. So I like the under on both of those 18 and a half seems like a lot. I think let's put it this way.
33:15
If Hertz has to throw over 18 and a half times, I think Philly's in big trouble in this game.
33:20
Yep, totally agree. That's why I'm taking over. He's going to have over 18 and a half.
33:24
Now, I mentioned Patrick Mahomes over 24 and a half pass completions. I also like the over 251 and a half yards passing. Once again, I like Kareem Hunt. I love Isaiah Pacheco. I just don't know how much success they have versus this number one defense in the NFL.
33:42
I think they're going to have trouble running the ball in this game. And I think Patrick Mahomes is going to have to, like you said, have to rely on a lot of short passing, a lot of underneath stuff to kind of keep the chains moving.
33:55
So I think this could be a game where he throws a little more than they'd like, and he hits that number here. And it's also why I like this prop, Alex. Isaiah Pacheco under five and a half rushing attempts. They're really going to struggle to run the ball in this game once again.
34:10
So shorting Pacheco on his rushing attempts.
34:15
I'm actually going to go up on his rushing attempts because I think the two weeks off has kind of – because I think he only had about maybe seven carries that Bill's game, if I'm not mistaken. He was just coming back, so I didn't use him a lot with Kareem Hunt.
34:26
But I think they're going to do a lot with those because those are really downhill runners, tough runners. I know Jordan Davis and Jalen Carter, but I think they're going to have to – No, let me rephrase that. Andy V is going to force the run to make sure that they get their attempts because
34:41
they're going to have to in order to do the things that we're talking about Patrick Mahomes doing, at least from my perspective, in order for them to win.
34:48
Yeah, I can see that because we talked about it earlier. I am going to take the under, but I wouldn't be surprised if they run the ball, even if they're not having a lot of success. I could see them running the ball just to try to keep the balance in this offense
35:01
and to try to limit those pass rushers. because you don't want to turn into a one-dimensional offense versus this elite secondary and the pass rush from Philly. I think Andy Reid knows that. I think that's why we're going to see a lot of quick passing game, and we're going to see a lot of runs,
35:17
even if they're limited. We're going to see a lot of running, I think, possibly to try to offset some of that. So I don't hate that prediction at all, Alex. When the game gets tight, And it seems like it will. Look, Kansas City wins these tight games, and the Chiefs are 12-0 in one-score games this season,
35:35
that is. That is the most ever in a single season in NFL history. I get the feeling you're leaning Chiefs here, Alex. Are you taking Chiefs minus 125 on the money line? Are you laying the points here? What's your pick here for this game?
35:50
I'm laying the points and I'm taking the Chiefs. I just, I will not bet. He's entered that Tom Brady rare era for me where I'm just not going to bet against him in these games. And I'll go there. If I lose, I lose. And I'm okay with that. But Andy Reid, again, I am taking Patrick Mahomes,
36:06
Andy Reid, and Spagnuolo in halftime adjustments to beat the Chiefs.
36:10
Or to beat the Eagles. I'm sorry.
36:12
To beat the Eagles. To beat the Eagles. Beating themselves is funny. But yeah, to beat the Eagles.
36:17
Yeah, I'm going to go, man, I'll tell you, Alex. So when prepping for this episode, I already had it made up in my mind that I was taking the Chiefs because for the simple reason that, like I said, this team is just so good in these tight games. They always find a way to win.
36:36
It's so hard to bet against the coaching of Andy Reid and Spagnuolo and the clutchness of Mahomes. Even though, like I said, I'm not sure he's as good a quarterback as he was two years ago. But that clutch never left. And if anything, he's as clutch as ever. So if this game is tight, it's absolutely Kansas City.
36:55
It's so tough, Alex, because on paper, almost everything is telling me Eagles here. I feel like there's a lot more mismatches on paper that favor the Eagles, and I was kind of surprised by that, Alex. Like I said, when I jumped into this game and did a lot of homework for this,
37:11
I was actually surprised at how many matchups I saw that kind of favored Philly in this game. I'm going to go against the Chiefs, though, and I'll probably regret it because I think in a close game, I think the Chiefs are going to find a way to win this game
37:27
Yeah, you got no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no. That was not a 40 slip, but continue.
37:36
You're right. It was not. I'm going to take the Eagles money line plus 125. I like the value here because I think this is an even matchup regardless. And look, I won't be the least bit surprised if the Chiefs will win. But I think if I'm going to take a betting side,
37:51
I think there's just more value taking the Eagles because I think the Eagles can absolutely win this game. I really have a hard time picking them in this game because, like I said, the head coaching, the quarterback play, it's tough. It's really tough. But I think Saquon Barkley is the difference maker here.
38:08
This guy has just been completely unstoppable, and I don't know if the Chiefs are going to be able to slow down this running game. The last time these teams met in the Super Bowl, Miles Sanders really hurt Philly and just 16 yards on seven carries and a fumble. That was the difference in that game.
38:27
I think Barkley gives the Eagles what they were missing the last time they played. This guy has been so unstoppable, and I just don't think they have an answer for him. I think the other key to this game is I think there's an advantage on the line of scrimmage, and I've said it a million times, PGF Nation,
38:43
you guys know, I'll probably say it a million more before this podcast is through. The game is always won in the trenches. And I think the Eagles have the advantage on the D-line and the advantage on the O-line. I just, I can't bet against them in this one, even though I know
39:00
I'm going to regret it because somehow Mahomes will pull a rabbit out of his hat in the last moments. Andy Reid will have some play call that they're not ready for, and it'll be a walk-in touchdown to end the game. I can already see it. Man, what a Super Bowl this should be. Alex.
39:18
And look, guys, we're going to put a bow on season six. And I got to say, guys, it's been an absolute blast. I'm so excited. The season we've had, the growth we've had. PGF Nation, you guys have been riding with us. We started the YouTube channel this year. We've been slowly getting traction over there.
39:36
So I hope you guys are checking out the content on that side as well. Of course, the newsletter continues to get more and more traction, pintglassfootball.com. And guys, season seven, Alex is back, of course, myself, and we're going to have NFL draft coverage like we always do. We are going to be looking at all these prospects.
39:56
Alex, I know you're already looking at tape. You've been sending me tape. I've been looking at tape. I'm looking at all this stuff. I'm watching senior bowl practices, Alex. I can't wait. for the Super Bowl Sunday, but I also can't wait to shift gears and really get into these draft prospects with you in April.
40:13
Yeah, Brad, kind of, Senior Bowl just passed. That's all I have to say. Senior Bowl just passed, and there's, shout out to Arkansas State.
40:21
If you know, you know, but we'll be talking about these guys, man. It's going to be so much fun, guys. So if you haven't already, make sure you are subscribed to the podcast, guys, because after the Super Bowl, we're going to take a little break. We come back for season seven of PGF, like I said,
40:39
in April with tons of draft coverage and start to get ready for the next season. Man, it's been fun, Alex. I can't wait to do it again.
40:48
Thanks for listening to the Pint Glass Football Podcast. Be sure to subscribe and follow us on Twitter at PGFPodcast.
41:26
Zencaster is the ultimate web-based podcasting solution. It provides high-quality audio and video podcast production and hosting. With a full suite of professional tools, podcasters can seamlessly record, produce, and publish studio-quality content all from one dashboard. Zencaster's post-production process takes the headache out of audio production. Set the right podcast loudness and levels while reducing background noise with a
41:58
click of a button. Coordinating all your guests to record in person is painful and tedious. Easily invite up to 11 participants per recording with one click. Go to Zincaster.com slash pricing and use my code PGFP and you'll get 30% off your first three months of Zincaster Professional.
42:24
I want you to have the same easy experiences I do for all my podcasting and content needs. It's time to share your story.

The NFL coaching carousel has once again delivered a mix of inspiring, questionable, and head-scratching hires. With the offseason here for most teams, let’s look at the teams that made the right moves—and those that may regret their decisions sooner rather than later.

Brian Schottenheimer, Dallas Cowboys: Grade F
​The Cowboys completely botched this hiring process. After dragging their feet and missing out on their top targets, Dallas settled on Brian Schottenheimer—a move that is almost impossible to justify as an upgrade from Mike McCarthy. Schottenheimer, who was already in the building as a non-play-calling offensive coordinator, is an uninspiring hire that raises serious concerns about Jerry Jones' ability to put together a legitimate Super Bowl contender. Given the names the Cowboys were targeting, including Deion Sanders and Bill Belichick, this feels like a massive missed opportunity.

Liam Coen, Jacksonville Jaguars: Grade C+
The Jaguars' decision to fire Doug Pederson while keeping GM Trent Baalke awhile longer before eventually firing him, hampered their ability to land a top coaching candidate. That being said, Liam Coen has intriguing potential. He did excellent work with Baker Mayfield and comes from the Sean McVay coaching tree however, his track record as an NFL offensive coordinator is mixed, including a season where the Rams finished dead last in yardage. Coen’s primary task will be elevating Trevor Lawrence from a disappointing No. 1 overall pick to a true franchise quarterback. The defense still needs major improvements, and the key will be how Coen assembles his coaching staff. If things fall into place, this hire could look much better in hindsight, but there are plenty of question marks.

Ben Johnson, Chicago Bears: Grade A
Chicago nailed this hire. Ben Johnson was the most coveted head coaching candidate this cycle, and for good reason. He’s one of the most talented play-callers in the NFL, though it remains to be seen if he can translate that into head coaching success. The Bears have built a solid foundation starting with Caleb Williams at quarterback, and Johnson’s offensive acumen should accelerate his development. His first major move—hiring former Raiders and Saints head coach Dennis Allen as defensive coordinator—is a savvy decision that gives him an experienced voice on that side of the ball. While offensive wizards don’t always become great head coaches, Johnson is stepping into a situation with enough talent to make an immediate impact.

Mike Vrabel, New England Patriots: Grade B+
The Patriots' transition from the days of Tom Brady and Bill Belichick has been a disaster, but they’ve made a strong course correction by bringing in Mike Vrabel. After promoting Jerod Mayo to head coach for just one season, New England quickly pivoted and hired Vrabel, who will bring toughness and an identity to New England. His in-game coaching is elite and he overachieved with the Titans who had organizational dysfunction with GM Jon Robinson. Vrabel has a talented young quarterback in Drake Maye to develop and he has proven he can build strong coaching staffs. The Patriots' roster is in desperate need of a rebuild and he’s an ideal fit for the situation. It’s reasonable to expect significant improvement in New England.

Aaron Glenn, New York Jets: Grade B
​Aaron Glenn has his work cut out for him in one of the NFL’s most dysfunctional franchises. The Jets remain a mess, with one of the worst NFL owners in Woody Johnson and massive uncertainty at quarterback—including Aaron Rodgers’ future in doubt. However, Glenn is a strong leader who connects with players and has developed as a play-caller over the past four years. He played a key role in the Lions' defensive growth, transforming it into one of the league's best units. He’ll need to navigate a teardown before rebuilding the roster in his image, but the Jets do have a solid foundation of talent to work with. Given the difficult circumstances, Glenn will need time, but his ability to command a locker room gives him a legitimate shot to succeed.

Pete Carroll, Las Vegas Raiders: Grade A-
This hire would earn an “A+” if Pete Carroll weren’t 73 years old. That being said, the Raiders made a fantastic decision bringing in Carroll, who is precisely the culture-builder this franchise needs. Las Vegas has been an afterthought for over two decades, and Carroll immediately raises the team’s floor. He’s likely bringing Russell Wilson with him, which is not an ideal long-term solution, but it’s still a notable upgrade at quarterback. Carroll will be working alongside new GM John Spytek, who has had success with Tampa Bay and Denver. Las Vegas Raiders owner Mark Davis leaned on Tom Brady to help make these hires and has said he will continue to play a role in the organization’s decision-making going forward; so far so good because Pete Carroll gives the Raiders a proven coach and much-needed credibility in the toughest division in football.

Final Thoughts
Some teams hit home runs with their head coaching hires, while others left us scratching our heads. The Bears and Raiders made the strongest moves, positioning their franchises for success. Meanwhile, the Cowboys’ hiring process was a disaster that could set them back even further. As the season unfolds, we’ll see which teams made the right call—and which ones will be searching for a new coach sooner rather than later.
-Brad Fowler, Pint Glass Football