The Underdog NFL Show

Underdog Podcasts
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Chris Horwedel and Mario Hines talk all things NFL football year round, covering the sport with a unique blend of insight and humor -- along some help from their contacts from around the football world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. MAR 12

    Episode 277: NFL Offseason Spectacular

    0:13 — Show Introduction & Free Agency Overview Hosts introduce the episode and set the stage for a rapid-fire breakdown of NFL free-agency moves and offseason storylines across the league.  0:50 — Arizona Cardinals Moves Discussion of Arizona potentially releasing Kyler Murray, new additions like Isaac Seumalo and Gardner Minshew, and speculation about a possible Marvin Harrison Jr. trade while evaluating the team’s outlook and odds from oddsmakers. 6:00 — Atlanta Falcons Offseason Decisions Breakdown of Atlanta’s additions (including Jahan Dotson and specialists), Kyle Pitts on the franchise tag, and debate about the team’s quarterback situation and roster direction. 8:46 — Baltimore Ravens Trade Drama Hosts examine the Ravens backing out of a Maxx Crosby trade and pivoting to Trey Hendrickson, along with reactions around the league and implications for the team’s championship chances. 12:27 — Buffalo Bills Offensive Additions Discussion of the Bills trading for DJ Moore and adding Bradley Chubb, focusing on Moore’s role in the offense and whether the team has truly found a top receiving option for Josh Allen. 18:46 — Carolina Panthers Big Spending Analysis of Carolina’s large deal for Jalen Phillips, other roster additions, and whether the moves represent meaningful progress or a risky investment in upside.  21:07 — Chicago Bears Transactions Bears signings, the surprise retirement of Drew Dalman, and the team’s offensive line adjustments lead to a discussion about long-term roster planning. 25:13 — Cincinnati Bengals Quiet Offseason The Bengals’ limited activity, including replacing Trey Hendrickson, and brief off-field chatter surrounding Joe Burrow. 25:58 — Cleveland Browns Strategy Debate A series of offensive line additions sparks discussion on whether Cleveland is rebuilding, treading water, or unintentionally tanking. 28:53 — Dallas Cowboys Moves & Pickens Situation Cowboys acquire Rashan Gary and franchise-tag George Pickens, prompting debate about roster strategy and potential contract drama. 32:01 — Denver Broncos Standing Pat Denver’s lack of outside signings leads to discussion about relying on internal improvement and the upcoming draft to strengthen the roster.  32:52 — Detroit Lions Roster Changes Trade of David Montgomery and additions like Cade Mays and Isaiah Pacheco highlight Detroit’s effort to manage salary cap space while maintaining competitiveness. 34:21 — Green Bay Packers Direction The hosts discuss roster turnover, the addition of Zaire Franklin, and whether Green Bay may be overrated entering next season according to oddsmakers. 35:43 — Houston Texans Building Around Defense Texans add Reed Blankenship and other contributors while focusing on strengthening key areas to support their developing roster. 37:30 — Indianapolis Colts Commit to Daniel Jones Conversation about the Colts keeping Alec Pierce and committing to Daniel Jones, including differing opinions on the long-term viability of the move. 40:17 — Jacksonville Jaguars Minimal Activity Jaguars largely retain internal players, prompting a quick segment on the team’s quiet offseason approach. 40:45 — Kansas City Chiefs Add Kenneth Walker Chiefs sign Kenneth Walker and bring back Travis Kelce, sparking discussion about offensive evolution and potential draft strategy. 44:45 — Las Vegas Raiders Aggressive Additions Raiders add Tyler Linderbaum, Quay Walker, and Nakobe Dean, with the hosts debating how the influx of defensive talent reshapes the roster. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 18m

  2. FEB 12

    Episode 276: A Look Back at Super Bowl LX

    00:13 – Cold Open & Super Bowl Disappointment Chris and Mario admit the game lacked intrigue, comparing it to last year’s lopsided halftime. They discuss the Patriots' offensive struggles and Seattle’s dominant defensive tone. 01:07 – Super Bowl: Seahawks vs Patriots High-level breakdown of Seattle’s defensive pressure, Patriots protection issues, Drake May’s uneven performance, Sam Darnold’s steadiness, and key defensive plays that shaped the flow. 06:31 – Treveyon Henderson Prop Sweat Chris recounts betting the rushing over and surviving a late-game yardage swing, highlighting how game script killed run volume. 10:34 – Standout Performances Praise for Christian Gonzalez, Craig Woodson’s rookie impact, Milton Williams’ interior presence, and debate over Kenneth Walker’s MVP moment negated by penalty. 16:10 – Commercials & Halftime Reactions They critique AI-heavy ads, the Brad Pitt Netflix trailer buzz, and nostalgic de-aging spots that missed the mark. 19:14 – Early Super Bowl Odds & Team Outlooks Using oddsmakers’ futures board, they debate Seahawks/Rams at the top, skepticism around Bills hype, Patriots’ standing, and surprise bottom-tier teams like the Dolphins and Cardinals. 22:59 – Bears vs Jaguars Futures Debate Deep dive into Caleb Williams’ troubling completion numbers, postseason inconsistency, Ben Johnson’s scheme questions, Trevor Lawrence’s trajectory, and Jacksonville’s ceiling. 39:59 – Receiver Trade Speculation Hypothetical trade talk: Brian Thomas Jr., Marvin Harrison Jr., and even A.J. Brown scenarios, plus Bills’ need for a true WR1. 52:00 – Veteran QB Carousel Discussion of potential availability: Kyler Murray, Tua, Malik Willis, Kirk Cousins, and deeper backup names. Debate on value vs projection. 53:35 – James Pearce Jr. Arrest & Fallout Detailed reaction to domestic dispute allegations, police pursuit, felony charges, and likely career consequences. The conversation turns to accountability, character evaluation, and Falcons implications. 59:23 – Offseason Preview Show closes with plans for free agency, draft coverage, and offseason consistency. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1 hr

  3. FEB 5

    Episode 275: SUPER BOWL LX

    00:13 – Pro Bowl Apathy & Football Fatigue Chris and Mario open by dismissing the Pro Bowl, joking about highlights, effort levels, and how little interest it generates compared to meaningful football. 01:26 – Super Bowl Anticipation Check They discuss overall excitement levels for the Super Bowl, lingering Patriots fatigue, and why the matchup still feels compelling despite emotional burnout. 02:36 – Marvel & TV Detour Extended pop-culture segment on Wonder Man, Disney+ pacing issues, long gaps between prestige TV seasons, and frustration with modern streaming timelines. 09:31 – Belichick, Legacy & Hall of Fame Optics Conversation shifts to Bill Belichick’s post-Patriots career, Hall of Fame delays, college football detours, and how staying too long can complicate legacies. 15:00 – Super Bowl Context & Team Profiles Breakdown of Seahawks vs Patriots from a high-level perspective, focusing on offensive balance, defensive strengths, season-long efficiency, and why the matchup is statistically intriguing. 19:32 – Super Bowl MVP Landscape Overview of MVP trends, quarterback dominance, and why non-QB candidates require unusual game scripts to be considered by voters. 23:26 – Running Backs & Usage Trends Discussion of rushing workloads, playoff usage patterns, and how backs can swing big games without guaranteeing individual awards. 29:26 – Betting Props & Market Curiosity Lighthearted look at oddsmakers’ lines, including rushing totals, receiving yard thresholds, and how public perception shapes numbers. 39:34 – NBA Trade Deadline Chaos Reaction to a wild NBA trade window, including Giannis rumors, front-office leverage, and teams positioning for long-term flexibility. 49:20 – Halftime Show & Novelty Props Breakdown of Super Bowl novelty markets: anthem length, coin tosses, MVP speeches, and Bad Bunny halftime expectations. 01:05:14 – Best Super Bowl Halftime Shows Ever They rank recent halftime performances, praising the Dre/Snoop/Kendrick show while critiquing others for lacking energy. 01:10:06 – Eagles News & Closing Thoughts The episode ends with a reaction to Jeff Stoutland’s departure, music talk, and final Super Bowl anticipation before signing off. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 11m

  4. JAN 29

    Episode 274: Chaos in Cleveland

    00:13 – Cold Open & Personality TangentChris and Mario open with storytelling about classroom punishment, performance, and why unintended encouragement often fuels confidence and showmanship.04:33 – Super Bowl Gap & Browns Chaos SetupThey note the awkward timing before Super Bowl week and pivot hard to Cleveland, setting up a deep dive into one of the league’s messiest coaching situations.04:56 – Browns Hire Todd Monken, Fallout BeginsDiscussion of Cleveland hiring Todd Monken after failing to align with preferred candidates, why the choice feels uninspired, and how internal demands fractured the search.07:15 – Jim Schwartz Exit & Defensive ConsequencesReaction to Jim Schwartz wanting out after being passed over, concerns for defensive stability, and how this decision could ripple into roster dissatisfaction.08:15 – Shador Sanders, QB Reality CheckThey discuss Sanders’ Pro Bowl nod, Cleveland’s long-term QB uncertainty, and why Monken’s success with Lamar Jackson doesn’t automatically translate.12:46 – College Football Age Inflation & Draft OpticsConversation about extended eligibility, older prospects, and why teams must balance production with shortened development windows.13:26 – Akheem Mesidor vs Youth ProspectsDetailed breakdown of Mesidor’s elite pressure numbers, age concerns, and how win-now teams may value certainty over upside.17:30 – Fernando Mendoza Lock at No. 1Discussion of Mendoza as the presumed top pick, oddsmakers’ certainty, Raiders fit, personality questions, and leadership challenges.22:26 – Raiders Roster, WR Fits & Free Agent MarketWide-ranging debate on which receivers actually help a young QB, cultural fit vs talent, and why most free-agent options feel uninspiring.32:18 – Diva WR History & Modern ComparisonsLighthearted but pointed segment ranking historical diva WR duos and comparing them to today’s personalities.42:22 – Eagles OC Search & Matt Nagy SkepticismStrong criticism of retread coordinator hires, Nagy’s offensive track record, and why Philly needs upside, not safety.45:25 – Schefter Tease & Coaching UncertaintyReaction to Adam Schefter hinting bigger changes may be coming, including speculation beyond coordinator hires.48:07 – Josh Allen, Bills & Promotion RisksDiscussion of Buffalo promoting internally, how QB scrutiny shifts when staff changes stall, and long-term risk.55:35 – Lamar Jackson Trade Prop ShockOddsmakers list Lamar Jackson-to-Raiders futures, sparking disbelief, mock trade exploration, and broader league instability talk.59:03 – Browns QB Wild Cards & Offseason OutlookBrief thoughts on Cleveland’s remaining options and why the offseason hype may not deliver. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 1m

  5. JAN 22

    Episode 273: Only Four Remain

    00:44 – Winter Storm Talk & Cold Open BanterChris and Mario open with incoming winter weather, Southern snow panic, grocery store calm, and general fatigue before settling into the show.03:26 – Fireplaces, Power Outages & PreparednessDiscussion of gas fireplaces, propane heaters, and storm prep, mixed with humor and past experiences.07:56 – Audiobooks, Memoirs & Entertainment TangentsExtended detour into celebrity memoirs, favorite audiobooks, Norm Macdonald, Colin Jost, Harry Potter, and sci-fi adaptations.12:18 – Marvel, Movies & Casting TalkNon-spoiler discussion on Marvel fatigue, multiverse issues, Black Panther casting rumors, and upcoming Disney+ releases.17:30 – NFL Coaching Carousel OverviewBreakdown of recent head coach and coordinator hires, trends toward defensive coaches, and concerns about offensive continuity.20:33 – Falcons, Lions & Coaching Fit DebatesDiscussion of Kevin Stefanski in Atlanta, Lions’ coordinator decisions, Dan Campbell’s influence, and organizational direction.25:52 – Chargers, Dolphins & Buccaneers MovesReaction to Mike McDaniel joining the Chargers, Dolphins hiring Jeff Hafley, and Tampa Bay’s offensive coordinator change.29:26 – Eagles OC Search & Fan ReputationInsight into how fan behavior impacts coaching interest, Eagles coordinator rumors, and the realities of NFL hiring optics.33:17 – Playoff Weekend SetupTransition into the remaining playoff games with context around injuries, quarterback situations, and oddsmakers’ lines.NFL Games Discussed 33:52 – Patriots at BroncosAFC playoff matchup shaped by quarterback availability, defensive pressure, and offensive uncertainty.42:54 – Rams at SeahawksNFC showdown focused on quarterback trust, offensive balance, and home-field impact.52:36 – College Football & NIL ReflectionClosing thoughts on NIL changing fandom, loss of roster continuity, and a brief, spoiler-free reaction to the national title game. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    54 min

  6. JAN 8

    Episode 272: Wildcard Weekend 26'

    00:13 – Playoffs Are Here & Format WeirdnessChris and Mario open with disbelief that the playoffs arrived so fast, questioning seeding quirks and how certain road teams received unusually favorable first-round matchups.00:48 – John Harbaugh Firing & Coaching CarouselReaction to John Harbaugh's dismissal after 18 years, comparisons to Andy Reid's Eagles exit, speculation about landing spots, and why some organizations remain unattractive despite openings.02:18 – Coordinator Firings & Continuity FailuresDiscussion of the Lions moving on from John Morton, how bad coordinator fits can derail seasons, and why patience sometimes backfires.03:26 – Todd Bowles Retained in TampaAnalysis of Tampa Bay's decision to keep Bowles, Baker Mayfield injury effects, and why the collapse wasn't as simple as staff turnover.04:46 – Betting Reference ChangeThe show explains switching to oddsmakers for lines due to accessibility, parlay flexibility, and consistency across platforms.07:02 – Quarterback Declarations & Draft TimingConversation on early QB draft entries, Jets development struggles, market myths, and why limited college starts remain risky.11:26 – Falcons, Colts & QB Decision RegretDebate on Atlanta's QB timeline, Indianapolis' handling of Riley Leonard, and how hesitation often costs playoff chances.13:25 – Draft Philosophy & Age DebateCritique of older prospects rising into Round 1, late-bloomer quarterbacks, and how physical peaks skew evaluation.16:56 – Defensive Draft MissesBreakdown of recent drafts where defensive talent existed but was misidentified or misused.19:26 – Eagles Defensive Collapse ContextDiscussion of coverage busts, penalties, and how opponent game plans exploited weaknesses late in the season.NFL Playoff Games Discussed (Spoiler-Free)22:16 – Rams at PanthersUnusual seeding matchup shaped by spread disparity, environment, and recent history.26:13 – Packers at BearsCold-weather rivalry game centered on playoff nerves and offensive reliability.31:19 – Bills at JaguarsMomentum-based matchup highlighting belief, quarterback variance, and perception gaps.33:46 – 49ers at EaglesHigh-profile playoff rematch focused on defensive health and offensive rhythm.37:34 – Chargers at PatriotsExperience vs. first-time playoff exposure with coaching contrast front and center.39:33 – Texans at Steelers (MNF)Physical AFC matchup defined by defense, pass protection, and postseason pressure. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    51 min

  7. JAN 1

    Episode 271: The Final Week of 25'

    00:13 – Opening & holiday banter: Hosts reflect on recording during the holidays and set the stage for a busy Week 18 with multiple divisions still undecided.01:26 – Personal story & league news: Anecdotes segue into discussion of off-field NFL news, including recent legal issues involving notable players and how public perception lags performance.08:05 – Week 18 overview: Why this final regular-season slate is unusually meaningful, with several division titles and playoff seeds still open.09:26 – Panthers at Buccaneers: NFC South title implications, division format quirks, and draft vs playoff value discussion.22:31 – Seahawks at 49ers: NFC West on the line, quarterback matchup context, and how recent performances shape the stakes.24:35 – Browns at Bengals: AFC North matchup context, sack records, and player motivations.26:17 – Cowboys at Giants: Draft positioning implications and the tension between winning and long-term team interests.27:50 – Rookie QB discussion: Comparing first-year quarterbacks across the league and what metrics actually matter.32:11 – Packers at Vikings: Playoff seeding context, backup quarterback situations, and coaching priorities.33:12 – Colts at Texans: AFC South race implications and late-season roster instability.34:42 – Titans at Jaguars: Division-clinching scenario and late-season evaluation themes.37:13 – Saints at Falcons: Limited stakes game used to evaluate individual players and future roles.41:05 – Cardinals at Rams: Wild card seeding implications and coaching mindset discussion.44:53 – Lions at Bears: Missed opportunities, rivalry context, and how expectations shifted over the season.46:17 – Chiefs at Raiders: Minimal competitive stakes, roster management, and fan-interest challenges.47:55 – Chargers at Broncos: Resting starters and playoff positioning context.48:35 – Dolphins at Patriots: Turbulent week backdrop and end-of-season evaluation.50:26 – Jets at Bills: Stadium significance, team form heading into playoffs, and defensive trends.54:31 – Commanders at Eagles: Division familiarity, resting starters, and low-scoring expectations.55:29 – Ravens at Steelers: Monday night finale, physical identity discussion, and running game emphasis.59:54 – Wrap-up: Final thoughts, Week 18 tone, and transition into the playoffs. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1 hr

  8. 12/25/2025

    Episode 270: Week 16 and No Division Champs

    00:13 – Christmas Eve Chaos & NFL SchedulingChris and Mario open with holiday travel stress, family logistics, late-season fatigue, and how Christmas games distort preparation, recovery, and fan attention.02:42 – NFL Parity, Clinching Confusion & League FatigueDiscussion of how few teams have clinched, wild-card congestion, exhausted rosters, and why December football feels more chaotic than ever.06:18 – Betting Markets, Line Movement & Public PanicChris explains why oddsmakers' lines swing violently late in the year, how public money misreads motivation, and why “must-win” narratives are misleading.09:44 – Quarterback Health, Benching Optics & Media OverreactionDebate over QB benchings, injury disclosures, leadership narratives, and how media framing distorts reality for struggling teams.14:26 – Coaching Stability, Short Leashes & Fan ExpectationsConversation about coordinators becoming scapegoats, why firing rarely fixes systemic issues, and how impatience resets teams backward.Week 17 NFL Games 18:13 – Cowboys at Commanders (Christmas Day)Holiday divisional matchup shaped by injuries and backup QB uncertainty.20:05 – Lions at VikingsNFC North clash tied to playoff survival and late-season momentum.22:48 – Broncos at ChiefsAFC West game influenced by health questions and seeding implications.25:58 – Texans at ChargersDefense-vs-protection matchup highlighting trench play.27:18 – Cardinals at BengalsTwo evaluation-mode teams measuring young talent.28:24 – Jaguars at ColtsVeteran QB return storyline amid roster instability.29:37 – Patriots at JetsDivision game dominated by directionless offenses and line disparity.32:26 – Saints at TitansLow-stakes matchup shaped by recent surprises and draft positioning.35:33 – Steelers at BrownsPhysical AFC North rivalry emphasizing defense and discipline.37:43 – Seahawks at PanthersUnpredictable teams battling for relevance.38:36 – Buccaneers at DolphinsTwo struggling offenses searching for rhythm.40:44 – Giants at RaidersDraft-order implications dominate the conversation.42:58 – Eagles at BillsThe week's marquee game with playoff-seeding consequences.45:08 – Bears at 49ersInjury-influenced matchup between playoff-caliber rosters.47:16 – Rams at FalconsOne team surging while the other looks for stability. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 28m
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4.9
out of 5
332 Ratings

About

Chris Horwedel and Mario Hines talk all things NFL football year round, covering the sport with a unique blend of insight and humor -- along some help from their contacts from around the football world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Information

  • Creator
    Underdog Podcasts
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    278
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026
  • Show Website
    The Underdog NFL Show