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On this episode of Leaguewide with Ben Solak we welcome Dan Graziano to break down all the biggest storylines from NFL Week 9. The Cleveland Browns fall to the New Orleans Saints after a failed two-point conversion attempt, sparking a debate about whether Shedeur Sanders should remain the team's starting quarterback.  We also discuss Jordan Love's electric performance against the New England Patriots, why he may be the most entertaining quarterback in football right now.  Plus, the Denver Broncos set a new NFL record for consecutive one-score victories, while the Los Angeles Rams overcome injuries and key absences as Myles Garrett's return, Puka Nacua's injury concerns, and the Washington Commanders' late-game decision-making take center stage.  We also play Overreaction or Underreaction, debating whether the San Francisco 49ers need Mike Evans and whether one elite wide receiver is enough to sustain success in today's NFL. Later, we examine whether the Seattle Seahawks should stick with Drew Lock, why Jonathan Taylor isn't getting traded and why the NFL trade deadline could end up being a disappointment, before wrapping up with Sunday Night Football, where the Chicago Bears defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers despite a four-interception performance from Caleb Williams. TIMECODES: :00 Welcome to Leaguewide  1:32 The Cleveland Browns fall to the New Orleans Saints: The Browns lost on a failed two-point conversion with Shedeur Sanders as the starting quarterback. Should he remain the starter? 15:08 Green Bay Packers vs New England Patriots: Jordan Love is the most fun player to watch in the NFL, and the Patriots allowed their most points at home in 56 years. 27:42 BRONCOS VS PANTHERS:The new Record for most consecutive wins by one score—- 36:36 Rams vs Commanders: Myles Garret return to the Rams lineup, Puka’s Injury and bad Commanders game ending management.  49:37 Overaction or Underaction: The 49ers don’t need Mike Evans 57:36 Overaction or Underaction: Having One elite receiver in the NFL isn’t enough 01:03:46 Should Seahawks stick with Drew Lock ? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On today's episode of Leaguewide ESPN Ben Solak and NFL analyst Harry Douglas break down the biggest storylines heading into Week 9, including quarterback uncertainty across the league and key matchups that could shape the playoff race. The duo previews Bills-Vikings, where Minnesota must find ways to protect Carson Wentz against Buffalo's aggressive defense, and Buccaneers-Bears, a physical showdown featuring an emerging Tampa Bay defense and potential upset potential. They also dive into the chess match between the Packers' explosive passing attack and the Patriots' press-heavy defense, discuss why Saints-Browns and Bengals-Falcons deserve national attention, spotlight receivers Michael Wilson and Malik Nabers as players to watch, and make their picks for favorites, underdogs, toss-up games, and survivor selections across an action-packed Week 9 slate. :00 Welcome 2:27 Quarterback uncertainty across the league  3:53 Bills vs Vikings 17:28 Buccaneers vs Bears 27:54 Packers vs Patriots 40:42 Saints vs Browns 45:39 Bengals vs Falcons 49:54 Receivers worth watching 53:25 Leaguewide Pick Em Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of Leaguewide, host Ben Solak welcomes Steelers beat writer Brooke Pryor for a weekly NFL audio roundup, sharing mystery quotes, podcast clips, and press conference moments from around the league. They unpack what the quotes reveal about Shedeur Sanders, Micah Parsons, Nick Foles, and the Cowboys, while mixing football analysis with the realities of covering players and coaches. Plus, The One Big Thing: Why do the Cowboys keep losing close games? ESPN NFL Nation Cowboys writer Todd Archer joins hosts Ben and Brooke to explain why Dallas has fallen to 3-5, examining an underperforming offense, a struggling defense, and the roster-building bind created by the Micah Parsons trade and limited draft capital. The conversation also weighs whether the Cowboys should sell at the trade deadline or continue pursuing a playoff spot. :00 Welcome to Leaguewide:49 Welcome Brooke Pryor 3:10 – Shedeur Sanders Shows Maturity Discussing the Saints Defense  7:12 – Micah Parsons Calls for Patience After Long Recovery  10:00 – Nick Foles Responds to Criticism and Honest Analysis  14:10 – Von Miller Explains What's Gone Wrong for the Cowboys  20:39 – Why the Cowboys Keep Losing Close Games  22:42 – What's Wrong With the Cowboys Offense?  27:36 – Cowboys Defense Under Fire: More Than an Execution Issue?  31:59 – The Micah Parsons Trade: Can Dallas Still Call Itself a Contender?  36:27 – Could a Loss to Indianapolis Change Everything for Dallas?  38:08 – Jaguars vs. Ravens: Key Storylines for Thursday Night Football Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On today's episode of Leaguewide, Ben Solak is joined by Mike Garafolo to break down the latest trade rumors, insider intel, and the biggest questions surrounding the NFL trade deadline. Later, Field Yates joins the show to debate the trades fans want most, the deals that could realistically happen, and the moves that would completely shake up the league. Could Jonathan Taylor end up in Minnesota? Is Brian Thomas Jr. a fit in Seattle? And why might the Chiefs be shopping a player they mysteriously benched? 00:00 Welcome to NFL Trade Deadline Primer episode 1:18 Welcome Mike Garafolo 4:46 Jonathan Taylor Trade Market: Which Teams Are Really in the Mix? 7:20 Other Running Back Options if Jonathan Taylor Stays Put 10:48 Colts Fire Sale: Which Star Is Most Likely to Be Traded? 14:00 How Brian Thomas Jr.'s Touchdown Impacts His Trade Value 15:46 Why Aren’t the 0-7 Chargers Selling? 18:31 One Lock-to-Happen Trade Before the Deadline 20:55 Welcome Field yates 22:55 NFL Trade Machine  23:25 Which Players Would You Move And Where ? 24:54 Brian Thomas to Seattle  31:20 Josh downs of the Indianapolis Colts to the Rams 36:39 Christian Barmore of the New England Patriots to the Jaguars 41:50 Derrick Brown from the Carolina Panthers to Cleveland Browns 46:25 Kingsley Suamataia to the Green Bay Packers 49:35 Khalil Mack from the Chargers to the 49ers 50:45 Nahshon Wright from The Jets to the Bears 51:45 Jonathan Taylor the Minnesota Vikings 53:33 Jonathan Taylor to the Giants does not make sense 01:01:00 Thanks for Watching / Rate, Subscribe, Like Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben Solak and Steve Wyche recap the Bears’ Monday Night Football win over Seattle before breaking down Jacksonville’s blowout victory over Indianapolis and Pittsburgh’s physical win over Cleveland. They examine how Chicago’s adaptable offense and disruptive defense could impact the team’s playoff ceiling, while also discussing the Jaguars’ defensive identity, the Colts’ quarterback and trade uncertainty, the Ravens’ injury crisis, and the Steelers’ evolving run game. :00 Welcome :37 Monday Night Football recap: Bears vs Seahawks 22:02 Jacksonville’s 42-7 win over Indianapolis 32:20 If you could trade Jonathan Taylor where would you send him? 34:50 The Ravens’ quarterback injuries and short-week matchup with Jacksonville raise questions about a veteran addition, with Jacoby Brissett discussed as a plausible option. 41:48 The Steelers beat the Browns behind their incredible run game Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of Leaguewide, Ben Solak welcomes ESPN Senior NFL Insider Dan Graziano, as he does every Monday, to recap a chaotic Week 8. They focus on Dallas' collapse against Arizona, Denver's late comeback over Kansas City, and Cincinnati's overtime win over Tennessee, breaking down what the results reveal about each team's identity, vulnerabilities, and outlook for the rest of the season. They also examine a wild week across the NFL, from Tampa Bay's 16-0 victory without completing a pass to Detroit's late win over Minnesota. The duo debates the impact of these results on divisional races, evaluates Aaron Rodgers' pursuit of the record books, and tackles major quarterback questions surrounding Lamar Jackson and Justin Herbert. :00 Welcome 1:30 The Arizona Cardinals stun the Dallas Cowboys in overtime 13:31 The Denver Broncos Beat The Kansas City Chiefs, Broncos Match Nfl Record With 15th Straight One-Score Win 25:27 The Cincinnati Bengals escape with a victory over the Tennessee Titans 37:07 Overreaction/ Underaction: The Buccaneers are a service academy 46:06 Overreaction/ Underaction: The Steelers are winning the AFC North 49:53 The Last Undefeated Team Falls: Lions Defeat Vikings 01:01:03 Has Lamar Jackson played his last game with the Baltimore Ravens ? 01:04:44 Should Chargers consider trading Justin Herbert? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On Friday’s episode of Leaguewide, Ben Solak is joined by former ESPN Analyst and former Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Harry Douglas to break down the Chicago Bears’ blockbuster trade for Jeffery Simmons and preview the biggest Week 8 matchups. They explain how the trade could reshape Chicago’s defense before diving into the tactical keys for Bears-Seahawks and Chiefs-Broncos. Then, they preview the Vikings-Lions matchup, unpacking Brian Flores’ disguise-heavy defense and the adjustments Jared Goff and Detroit’s offense will need to make. The duo also takes a closer look at Browns-Steelers and Ravens-Bills, highlights emerging receivers around the league, and makes their weekly game picks. 00:00 Welcome 00:29 Halloween Prep 03:13 Jeffery Simmons Traded from the Titans to the Bears 11:02 Bears at Seahawks 20:16 Chiefs vs. Broncos 30:38 Vikings vs. Lions 46:55 Browns vs. Steelers 50:30 Ravens vs. Bills 56:17 Harry Douglas' WR to Watch This Weekend 1:02:08 Leaguewide Picks of the Week         Favorite of the Week         50/50 Pick         Underdog Pick         Survivor Pick Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On today’s episode of Leaguewide, Ben welcomes Kevin Seifert, ESPN’s Minnesota Vikings beat writer, to explain what makes Brian Flores’ defense more than just a high-volume blitz scheme and why it has helped the Vikings remain the NFL’s only undefeated team. Plus, we open the show's first mailbag and discuss the following topics: • Who should the Jets hire if they make a coaching change? • What’s behind the Raiders’ run game struggles? • Has Patrick Mahomes declined over the last three seasons? • Are we underrating Jared Goff? • Is the Shanahan-McVay offense built for mobile quarterbacks? 1:10 NEWS OF THE DAY: Colts trade DT DeForest Buckner to 49ers 2:45 Why the Minnesota Vikings Remain the NFL's Only Undefeated Team: 3:22 The Brian Flores experience: 71% Blitzes and pure chaos 9:48 Why are the Vikings blitzing so much in 2026? 13:37 The Leaders Behind Brian Flores' Blitz-Happy Vikings Defense 18:35 Can Minnesota keep up its League-Leading blitz rate? 23:55 What's different about Brian Flores in Minnesota? 28:06 Mail Bag !!! 28:41 If the Jets make a coaching change, who would you rather hire next? 32:13 What’s Wrong With the Raiders Run Game? 36:32 Has Patrick Mahomes Been Overrated for the Last Three Seasons? 40:48 Are We Underrating Jared Goff? 44:55 Is the Shanahan-McVay Offense Built for Mobile QBs? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode ESPN Leaguewide Ben Solak and Kimberley Martin discuss the Quentin Nelson trade to Seattle, the Browns-Steelers rematch, and the Cowboys’ win over the Eagles.  They then bring out the NFL Hot Seat Thermometer 🌡️  to assess the pressure facing Nick Sirianni, Mike McDaniel, Kirk Cousins, and Aaron Glenn as the NFL turns toward Week 8. :00 Welcome 1:10 Seahawks acquire Quenton Nelson from the Colts  8:30 The Browns-Steelers rematch carries AFC North stakes;  20:18 Kimberley Martin’s Cowboys-Eagles takeaway:  Dallas must sustain its performance against upcoming opponents. 25:31 NFL Hot Seat Thermometer 🌡️ Nick Sirianni’s position amid Philadelphia’s losing streak,  30:38 NFL Hot Seat Thermometer 🌡️ Mike McDaniel remains under pressure after the Chargers’ 0-6 start 34:35 The Raiders sticking with Kirk Cousins for now,  41:09 Aaron Glenn’s future with the Jets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of Leaguewide, Ben Solak and Steve Wyche break down the Cowboys' dominant 38-21 win over the Eagles behind a punishing rushing attack and a relentless offensive line. They discuss Philadelphia's mounting injury concerns, defensive struggles, and whether the Eagles could become unexpected sellers at the trade deadline. The guys also examine Seattle's defensive masterclass against Kansas City, debate potential trade targets that could help revive the Chiefs' passing game, and react to Tampa Bay's surprising 43-13 blowout of Carolina despite Baker Mayfield throwing for just 64 yards. Plus, they dive into Baltimore's ongoing issues on both sides of the ball, including defensive breakdowns against Joe Burrow and concerns surrounding Derrick Henry's supporting cast up front. To close, Ben makes the case for Burrow as a legitimate MVP candidate as Cincinnati continues its playoff push. 1:30 The Cowboys Beat the Eagles 14:55 Chiefs vs. Seahawks 27:54 Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Carolina Panthers 38:46 Ravens vs. Bengals Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of Leaguewide, Ben Solak welcomes ESPN Senior NFL Insider Dan Graziano, as he does every Monday, to break down the shocking results from NFL Week 7. The Miami Dolphins earned their first win of the season, while the San Francisco 49ers saw their undefeated streak come to an end against the Atlanta Falcons. Plus, J.J. McCarthy made his first NFL start and led his team to a win over the Houston Texans. The guys also discuss whether the Las Vegas Raiders should start Fernando Mendoza next week, the Cincinnati Bengals' dominant win over the Baltimore Ravens, and whether Derrick Henry's elite run is finally slowing down. Plus, Patrick Mahomes suffers the worst scoring loss of his career. All that and more on Leaguewide. :00 WELCOME 1:48 The Miami Dolphins get their first win of the year against the New York Jets. 14:52 The 49ers are no longer undefeated after a loss to the Atlanta Falcons. 26:58 The Detroit Lions beat the Green Bay Packers. 40:12 J.J. McCarthy and the New York Giants beat the Houston Texans. 52:17 Should the Raiders start Fernando Mendoza next week? 56:03 The Cincinnati Bengals run over the Baltimore Ravens. 01:03:03 Is Derrick Henry done ?  01:04:44 Baker Mayfield throws for 64 yards as the Buccaneers roll to a 43-13 win over the Carolina Panthers. 01:12:51 Sunday Night Football Capper: The Seattle Seahawks limit the Chiefs to 3 points.  Which ties the Chiefs' fewest in a game started by Mahomes  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On Friday’s episode of Leaguewide, Ben Solak is joined by former Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Harry Douglas to preview the best games of **NFL Week 7. They top it off with the Chiefs visiting the Seahawks and an AFC North showdown between the Bengals and Ravens. They also take a deep dive into Packers vs. Lions before analyzing J.J. McCarthy’s first start with the Giants against the Texans. Plus, can the Vikings remain undefeated when they face off against the Colts? Harry gives us the wide receivers to watch, and the episode wraps up with Leaguewide Pick 'Em, where you have to pick a favorite, a 50/50 game, an underdog, and a survivor selection each week. :00 Welcome 1:12 Chiefs vs Seahawks 16:12 Bengals vs Ravens 29:16 Packers vs Lions 43:53 Giants vs Texans 47:16 Colts vs Vikings 50:20 Wide receivers to watch for on Sunday 57:22 Leaguewide Pick Em Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of Leaguewide with Ben Solak, Ben welcomes ESPN Eagles reporter Tim McManus to explore the recent medical and team management issues surrounding Jalen Hurts, including his blood clot diagnosis, the NFL's response, and the implications for the team's future. They also discuss the team's confidence in Tanner McKee as the starting quarterback, the Eagles' trade deadline outlook, and questions surrounding Hurts' long-term future and contract. Plus, we welcome ESPN Panthers reporter Mike Kaye to discuss the improvement of Bryce Young in his third season with the Carolina Panthers. The conversation focuses on the innovative offensive strategies and coaching adjustments that offensive coordinator Brad Idzik has brought to the Panthers, how they are fueling Young's current success, and how they are shaping the future of both Young and the franchise. Then, Ben takes a deep dive into the Thursday Night Football matchup Patriots vs Bears and explains why he's so excited to watch Drake Maye and Caleb Williams square off in a highly anticipated showdown. :00 Welcome 1:17 Welcome ESPN Eagles reporter Tim McManus 1:56 Introduction to Jalen Hurts' Medical Situation 4:01 What happened to Jalen Hurts before the Jaguars game? 6:39 Implications for the Eagles' Season and Future Outlook 13:28 Backup Quarterback Situation and Team Confidence 17:43 Trade Deadline Outlook and Team Strategy 19:47 Jalen Hurts' Long-Term Future and Contract Questions 21:23 Welcome Mike Kaye, ESPN Panthers Reporter & Bryce Young's Improved Season and Key Stats 24:28 The Role of New Play Caller Brad Idzik and Operational Changes 32:49 The Impact of Big Receivers and the Deep Passing Game 35:55 Where has Bryce Young gotten better? 43:10 Thursday Night Football: New England Patriots vs Chicago Bears Preview Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of Leaguewide with Ben Solak, Ben welcomes Kimberley Martin to the show to discuss the latest NFL developments, focusing on J.J. McCarthy's potential start over Jameis Winston for the New York Giants. They take an in-depth look at Caleb Williams' performance and return against Atlanta. They also compare and contrast Baltimore Ravens quarterbacks Tyler Huntley and Lamar Jackson. We get the latest update on Lamar's injury status and its impact on the Ravens. Plus, an early look at Week 7 matchups and key player updates. 00:00 Intro and Week 7 Overview 02:20 Giants' QB Decision: McCarthy or Not? 9:35 Caleb Williams' Return and Performance 09:46 Lamar Jackson's Injury and Ravens' Strategy 12:18 Bears' QB Situation and Caleb's Mindset 21:13 Zay Flowers' Inspiring Story 24:26 Lamar vs. Snoop Huntley: Playstyle Differences 32:03 Lamar Jackson's Injury Uncertainty 37:18 Week 7 Early Questions and Predictions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of Leaguewide, Ben Solak welcomes ESPN NFL reporter Steve Wyche to recap a wild Monday Night Football matchup between the San Francisco 49ers and the Washington Commanders. The game was anything but dull, showcasing not only the talent on the field but also the strategies and adjustments that ultimately turned the tide. Despite the loss, the Commanders proved they are far from an easy opponent, while the 49ers face some serious questions about their offensive depth moving forward. Plus, the guys take a deep dive into the biggest news of the day, including the Indianapolis Colts parting ways with General Manager Chris Ballard. They also discuss Jalen Hurts being ruled out for the remainder of the season and what the Eagles should prioritize moving forward. Also on the show: Where are the L.A. Rams we were promised in the preseason? And finally, have the Cowboys been solved? Ben and Steve break down how opposing defenses are shutting down Dak Prescott and slowing one of the league's most talented offenses. 1:59 Monday Night Football recap Commanders vs 49ers 12:22 Mike Evans Injury Update 17:53 Chris Ballard relieved of his duties as Indianapolis Colts General Manager. 25:22 Jaylen Hurts - Out for the rest of the season. The case for the Eagles prioritizing the future 32:58 Where are the L.A. Rams we were promised in the preseason? 40:29 The Cowboys Have Been Solved: How Defenses Are Shutting Down Dak Prescott Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices