NFL explained.

Ep #9 of the NFL Players: Second Acts podcast. On the show, co-hosts former All-Pro Charles “Peanut” Tillman and Super Bowl champion Roman Harper talk with NFL legends about how they’ve found success in their post-NFL careers. Today, they’re joined by 12-year NFL veteran running back and current Hollywood actor Thomas Q. jones. Thomas Jones was a bruising Pro Bowl RB who punished defenders on his way to 10,591 career rushing yards in his 12-year career. It was a career worthy of Hall of Fame consideration in 2022. Yet, when he left the game Thomas spent the first 10 months of his retirement drinking beer…all day, every day…starting with a Corona…at 6am! He joined Roman and Peanut to talk about the dark days of that struggle and how showbusiness saved his life. The man who chose acting over alcoholism also talks of how he channeled his football competitiveness into a thriving Hollywood career as Thomas Q. Jones the actor, producer, showrunner, and entrepreneur.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Peter is joined by Philadelphia Eagles' Running Backs Coach and Assistant Head Coach Jemal Singleton to discuss Miles Sanders’ breakout 2022 season, the culture Nick Sirianni has built in Philadelphia, and how Singleton’s military upbringing and training has been applied to his coaching style. Peter also discusses the amazing campaign Jared Goff is having, Baker Mayfield’s wild Thursday night, and his quest for the best wings in Buffalo this weekend. Taylor Kyles joins and makes us smarter with more Lions talk, Fox Sports statistician Jason Thornbury hops on to chronicle his quest for airline miles and status, and SPOILER ALERT — producer Aaron Wong Kaufman and Peter give their thoughts on the “White Lotus” Season 2 finale.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An NFL team is full of moving parts, and it takes special talent to be able to pull all the pieces together. This week on the NFL explained. podcast, Mike Yam and Michael Robinson talk about the role of a General Manager and what it takes to create a winning team. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode #8: Doug, one of the NFL’s true OGs, joins Roman and Peanut on the pod. Roman gives Doug his flowers for achieving “GOAT status” for all of his contributions to the HBCU football community as a player and ambassador (3:31). Doug has continued to give back to the HBCU community, and he credits his former Grambling St. coach Eddie Robinson for instilling that in him (5:12). Doug also talks about his current second act with the Washington Commanders, and the historic nature of working with the NFL’s first Black team president Jason Wright (7:36). Doug discusses his goals for the coaching fellowship named in his honor (14:00), and the importance of having a pipeline of Black QB coaches (17:50). Doug gives the origin story of how he created the Black College Football Hall of Fame (22:05). He also talks about the Deion effect of the recent spotlight HBCU football has enjoyed (29:10). Doug gives his top 4 QBs to watch right now, and why he loves Josh Allen’s “I don’t give a damn” attitude (39:20). He also talks why he was “born too soon” when looking at current QB contracts (43:21). And, Doug tells the incredible story of being recruited by Eddie Robinson at Grambling St.(46:30). See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bengals OC Brian Callahan joins the show to discuss the magic of Joe Burrow, the long list of quarterbacks he’s coached (Tebow, Manning, Stafford, Carr, Burrow), lessons from his father Bill Callahan, and what the Bengals fan base means to the team and the state of Ohio. Peter also explains why the 49ers are uniquely built for their latest injury setback, why the Vikings get no respect, and the wonderful Sunday Cameron and Connor Heyward had in Atlanta. Aaron joins to give us a full Brock Purdy deep dive.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of the NFL explained podcast, Mike Yam and Michael Robinson discuss the evolution of equipment from the days a player could fold their helmet up and put it in their pocket, to today! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep#7: There’s money in funk…just ask Justin Forsett. On the latest episode, the former 9-year NFL veteran running back joined Peanut and Roman to share the origin story of his company Hustle Clean, and how his teammates suspect shower habits sparked the idea of his multi-million-dollar hygiene company. He shares the story of his Shark Tank appearance he calls “the worst pitch in Shark Tank history,” but how that pitch led to the deal that shot his company into the stratosphere. Justin describes his grind starting Hustle Clean while playing and tells current players why they should start planning their post-career lives asap! Justin explains his leadership style, and why he says, “In order to lead well, you must read.” Justin also blends profits with philanthropy through his company and highlights his two initiatives: “Shower to the People” and “Free Play.” See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

96 hours after agreeing to an 8-year deal to be the next Head Coach at Nebraska, Matt Rhule joins Peter to discuss the whirlwind he’s been on, the coaches who reached out when he was fired, and which NFL players he loved to go against. Rhule also discusses why he believes Nebraska can return to greatness and the lessons he learned in Charlotte. Peter shares the story of his paparazzi filled night out in LA, the Bengals, the Broncos, Odell’s fellow passengers, and the mascot in Jacksonville. Taylor Kyles joins to discuss Josh Jacobs’ surprising 2022 campaign.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of the NFL explained. podcast, Mike Yam and Michael Robinson answer your questions. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode #6: This week Peanut and Roman are joined by NFL Films producer Darrell Campbell. Darrell starts out taking us on his football journey from star defensive lineman at Notre Dame, to journeyman pro in the NFL, the AFL, and the CFL. That all led him to a chance meeting with NFL Films legend Steve Sabol. Darrell describes how that encounter charted his path to eventual Hard Knocks producer, and three Emmy awards. Darrell overcame many bumps along the way. He explains how the journeyman road impacted his family, and his transition from pro athlete to the "real world" as an unpaid intern. Darrell talks of those who motivated him - we're looking at you Peanut - and how his faith has kept him uplifted to reap the benefits of success he now enjoys. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

NFL Network’s Peter Schrager is joined by Kevin Burkhardt to chat about his first season as FOX's lead play by play announcer, the gravity of a Thanksgiving Day broadcast, and what hanging with Alex Rodriguez is like. Peter also goes deep on the Jets QB situation, the 49ers' offense, Odell Beckham's next destination, and why Patrick Mahomes and the MVP conversation are a lot like Michael Jordan in the '90's. Plus, Taylor Kyles joins to present the case for the most underrated pass rusher in the sport (hint: he plays in New England), and we bring back Peter's childhood buddy Ditro to see how he's doing halfway through the craziest ten days of sports we've ever seen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ep. #5: Former Pro Bowl defensive back DeAngelo Hall comes through to chop it up with Peanut and Roman. D-Hall gives the backstory to why his ridiculous four interception game against Jay Cutler in 2010 was payback (2:26), and why he gets frustrated by watching DBs in today’s game (9:16). He talks of what makes former players prime candidates to be NFL coaches (12:40), and why he says nepotism is a major factor in him not wanting to pursue that path anymore (14:37). He also discusses the obstacles he says minority coaches endure for opportunities, and how it informs how he views his job as a broadcaster (15:24). He also shares his thoughts on Jeff Saturday’s hire as Colts head coach (22:54). DeAngelo is also an advocate for MS awareness and shares why he supports the cause in the NFL’s My Cause My Cleats campaign (36:59). The guys have a little fun also. D-Hall admits Roman has a better golf swing (40:02), and why he’s loving being a dad he never had (42:44). NOTE: Time codes are approximate. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

NFL Network’s Peter Schrager breaks down his trip to Munich for the NFL’s first regular season game in Germany, hits the Bills’ two game losing streak, and spends some time to appreciate the legend that is Colt McCoy. Then, Peter is joined by Chicago Bears GM Ryan Poles, who shares insight on Bears 1st year Head Coach Matt Eberflus, the development of Justin Fields, the Roquan Smith trade, and some memories of scouting and admiring Patrick Mahomes when he worked in the Kansas City front office. Finally, Taylor Kyles (@tkyles39) breaks down just how impressive Justin Jefferson’s career has been, and Peter is joined by his friend “Ditro“ who believes the upcoming ten days may be the greatest sports viewing stretch we’ve ever seen. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We gave the modernized offense some love earlier this season and now it's time to explain defensive schemes. On this episode of the NFL explained. podcast, Mike Yam and Michael Robinson discuss the complexities and considerations of defensive players in today's NFL as play evolves on both sides of the ball.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode 4: Malcolm Jenkins may be newly retired from the NFL, but he’s far from taking it easy. On the podcast he joins Peanut and Roman – who he says taught him values of leadership - to talk about how he’s diving headfirst into his many second acts as an art collector, a businessman, a content producer, and a sports league owner…all while staying true to his roots as a voice for the underserved. Malcolm shares the advice he gives to players about professionalism. He also dishes on how now that he’s retired from the NFL every day is an adventure, and whether it's Saints or Eagles fans for him. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

NFL Network’s Peter Schrager offers his thoughts on all the changes in Indianapolis, addresses the Odell to Dallas rumors, and previews this week’s big game in Munich. Then, Peter is joined by author Jeff Pearlman to discuss his book “The Last Folk Hero: The Life and Myth of Bo Jackson” and share stories from his work on “Showtime”, the book that inspired HBO’s Winning Time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We all love seeing those slow motion replays that reveal facts that cannot be seen definitively in real time. In a game that is becoming more and more precise, NFL referees have the impossible task of being everywhere at once to observe the action and make calls accordingly. To help them get every call right, there are cameras capturing the plays from every angle. In this episode of the NFL explained. podcast, Mike Yam and Michael Robinson take you through the evolution of the instant replay and talk about where it may be headed in the future. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It gets spicy on the latest episode of the NFL Players: Second Acts podcast when former 9-year NFL vet and social media “don’t-call-me-an-influencer” sensation Anthony “Spice” Adams joins hosts Peanut Tillman and Roman Harper. We learn the ways Spice separates his family and online lives (4:17). He also dishes on why he chose to take part in the Amazon Prime Video series “Life After” (5:33). Spice also shares why creating social content is therapeutic for him, and why he won’t create content that will embarrass his kids (29:38). He reflects on why he doesn’t regret turning down a main character role in the HBO series “Ballers” (29:38). And, we learn the origin stories of his most famous characters, Leon Lemons (34:52) and Cream E. Biggums (7:46).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

NFL Network’s Peter Schrager is joined by New York Giants’ 1st year General Manager Joe Schoen, who reflects on this year’s red hot start to the Giants season, goes into his path from ticket office intern to NFL GM, and takes us into the Bills Draft Room on the day Josh Allen was selected. Peter also highlights the contributions of two quarterbacks who have taken the league by surprise this season, and discusses whether the DJ Moore helmet removal flag should have been a penalty or not. Finally, NFL Network ace researcher Tony Holzman-Escareno joins Peter to highlight how unique Christian McCaffrey’s day was against the Rams, and Peter’s friend Aaron reveals his scorching hot take on the Instagram-ization of Halloween. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The quarterback is such a key position that, once someone is in for the season, there isn't much moving' n shakin' going on. So when a situation arises where a new QB must step in, controversy is bound to come with it. On this episode of the NFL explained. podcast, Mike Yam and Michael Robinson talk about some of the most memorable QB controversies of all time. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Episode #2 of the NFL Players Second Acts podcast, NFL Executive Vice President of Football Operations Troy Vincent joins Peanut and Roman for a candid conversation about his journey from 15-year NFL veteran, to one of the top executives in the league office. Troy expounds on when he knew it was time for him to retire (2:17), and how he planned for his post-football life in high school (8:24). Troy also discusses why, during his playing days, he never defined himself as an NFL player (12:33). As a man of faith, Troy explains why he operates on the principle of being a servant leader (18:07). He also talks about whether he has his eyes on one day being NFL Commissioner (20:08). The guys get into nitty-gritty talk of NFL rules, with Troy dishing on how he manages criticism of the league’s on-field rules (23:19) and why he believes the rulebook should be trimmed (23:41). Of course, the talked roughing the passer (26:52) as a jump off to why Troy says the NFL game today is different, safer, and better. And Troy gushes over what he calls the future of the game: flag football (37:23). *NOTE: Time codes are approximate.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

NFL Network’s Peter Schrager is joined by Buffalo Bills Offensive Coordinator Ken Dorsey, who shares when he knew Josh Allen was something special, how he feel when he watches Josh hurdle defenders, and stories from his time as a star college quarterback at University of Miami. Peter also shares the story of his weekend with Sean McVay binge watching HBO, who should get the credit for the revitalized Seattle Seahawks, and what REALLY happened on the Browns’ last play. Finally, NFL Researcher Tony Holzman-Escareno joins Peter to break down Brady’s early season struggles, and Peter’s friend Noah responds to Paul Rudd’s shout out from last week’s episode.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As play on the field evolves, so do the standards placed on each position. In this episode of the NFL explained. podcast, Mike Yam and Michael Robinson talk about the wide receiver position and how it has changed as defensive position players get faster and more powerful, and as quarterbacks become more and more nimble. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s a lively debut episode! Former Pro Bowl offensive lineman Jon Runyan joins co-hosts Peanut Tillman and Roman Harper to discuss his many second acts, including his run as a two-term congressperson in New Jersey (1:30), and what he’s most proud of during his time in Washington, DC (11:37). Jon also revealed why, of all the jobs he could have, he decided to do a stint as an Uber driver (17:01), and a hint…it wasn’t because he needed money. He also talked about his path to his current role with the NFL (21:10). Peanut and Roman have fun with Jon and find out what his splurge purchase was when he was drafted (26:01), his favorite playing moment in the NFL (26:14) who’s on his personal Mount Rushmore (27:11), and why he calls his life “awesome” (28:36). Jon also shares his daily affirmations, and how they’ve guided his positive outlook since his NFL playing days ended (31:21).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

NFL Network’s Peter Schrager is joined by Paul Rudd to reflect on the Week 6 Chiefs/Bills game, the wide open NFC, and Robert Kraft’s star-studded wedding. Paul shares stories of his Avengers-only (sorta) fantasy football league, his thoughts on “Good Morning Football” and the NFL Network’s star reporters, and opens the book on various Chiefs legends and celebrity friends. Paul tells a story about the time he saw Paul McCartney play an impromptu concert at a “Saturday Night Live” rehearsal and the background behind the famous “Knocked Up“ fantasy baseball scene. Toss in some One Direction, the brilliance of Nathan Fielder, and a little Saquon Barkley appreciation, too. Enjoy!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An NFL team's search for the best of the best spans the globe! So where exactly do NFL players come from? Listen as Mike Yam and Michael Robinson expand on the topic here, on the NFL explained. podcast. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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NFL Network’s Peter Schrager reflects on the Arrowhead Stadium crowd’s energy for “Monday Night Football”, the opposite trajectories of the Rams and New York Giants, and why the 49ers get his shout out of the week. Peter sits down with New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh to break down their Week 5 win over the Miami Dolphins, his relationship with Packers HC Matt LaFleur, and their furniture purchases when they were roommates in Mount Pleasant, Michigan. Then Peter is joined by NFL Network Researcher Tony Holzman-Escareno to break down Micah Parsons and how he could impact the Cowboys’ game against the Eagles. Finally, Peter’s college buddy Aaron has the hottest take of all. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You see them on the sidelines during games, talking into their clipboards and in movies giving rousing speeches at half-time to fire up the team for the inevitable comeback victory, but what are coaches really up to? Mike Yam and Michael Robinson get into it on this episode of the NFL explained. podcast. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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On this episode of the NFL explained. podcast, Mike Yam and Michael Robinson talk about the evolution of offenses in the NFL. As a former dual-threat quarterback himself, M Rob talks about some of the trends we've seen over the past few years, and where we may be headed in the future. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

They have to be fast, powerful and know how to play the offense and defense of the opposing team every week. On top of all that, they have to play against their teammates! On this episode of the NFL explained. podcast, Yam and M Rob tell you all you need to know about life on an NFL team's practice squad.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever wondered which colleges produce the most NFL players? On this episode of the NFL explained podcast, Mike Yam and Michael Robinson answer that question and explore some other factors that make certain colleges unique in the eyes of future NFL players. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mike Yam and Michael Robinson give you the strategy of play calling from the inside on this episode of the NFL explained podcast. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this, the first episode of season 2 of the NFL explained. podcast, hosts Mike Yam and Michael Robinson take us through what to expect as we kickoff the '22 NFL season! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The NFL heads to Las Vegas April 28-30 to set the stage for the 2022 season with the NFL Draft! On this episode of the NFL explained. podcast, Aditi and Mike give you the history of the draft from its freewheeling beginnings, to the calculated mega-event that it is today! Learn about milestones in draft history such as the ‘secret’ draft year, College Football factories that dominate the drat boards, why having top draft picks doesn’t always equate to success on the field and more!   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of the NFL explained. podcast, Aditi and Mike answer more of your questions. Keep them coming @AKinkhabwala and @Mike_Yam for a chance to have your question explained on the next edition of the NFL explained. podcast's Fan Grab Bag!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As moves are being made in the off season, Aditi and Mike take the opportunity to cover the history and evolution of NFL contracts on this episode of the NFL explained. podcast. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On March 1, the most promising NFL prospects will show up at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis to showcase their physical and mental skills in a series of tests known as the NFL Combine. Join Mike and Aditi on this episode of the NFL explained. podcast as they talk about what makes this event so much fun to follow. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The super Bowl is here! And what better time is there to brush up on your Super Bowl trivia so that you can drop some knowledge on everyone when you are watching the game on Sunday? On this episode of the NFL explained podcast, listen as Aditi and Mike tell you all you need to know about the history of the Super Bowl! Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From the laid-back atmosphere, to the access that an exhibition game allows, the NFL Pro Bowl gives us a glimpse into a sport that is played by athletes who simply love to play football! On this episode of the NFL explained. podcast, Aditi and Mike take a look at the history of the Pro Bowl, and look ahead at what's in store for the future! Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Passer rating", the metric used to gauge a quarterback's performance, is often misunderstood. And that's understandable since an all-encompassing metric that sums up the production of such a pivotal position must take several variables into account. If you've ever wondered what goes into the passer rating number, listen to this episode of the NFL explained. podcast as Aditi and Mike break it down for you! Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We intentionally skipped over one moniker in our "Nicknames" episode because it is a pass so grand that it deserved an episode all its own: of course we're talkin' about the "Hail Mary"! Like anything rare, it's something everyone wants to see and when it happens, it's a sight to behold. On this episode of the NFL explained podcast, Aditi and Mike explain the origin of the Hail Mary, and relive some of the greatest moments in Hail Mary history. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The NFL's 2021 regular season turned out to be one for the record books! From the players that have been around for a while and are still getting it done, to the young stars like Jonathan Taylor who are finding their rhythm, along with all the kicks and the catches that were written into the pages this season, listen as Aditi and Mike cover them all on this episode of the NFL explained. podcast! Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Throughout NFL history there has always been an advantage to playing at home: familiar confines, little to no travel and a stadium full of friendly support are some of the top reasons one can think of. Recently however, there has been a decline in the power of home-field advantage, but why? Listen to this episode of the NFL explained. podcast as Aditi and Mike answer that question. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Mike on this episode of the NFL explained. podcast as he takes you though some of the special performances that explain why 2011 is arguably "The Year of the QB"! Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode, Aditi and Mike explain your questions! Keep them coming @AKinkhabwala and @Mike_Yam for a chance to have your question explained on the next edition of the NFL explained. podcast's fan grab bag! Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of the NFL explained. podcast, Aditi and Mike seek to uncover the answer to football's "chicken or egg" question: does offense or defense win championships? In a sport that's constantly evolving, what do the numbers say and how does the data relate to today's game? Listen to find out! Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For any NFL coach, it's all about making the right call at the right moment! If that moment happens to be calling a timeout right before the opposing team's kicker sends the football on a journey toward the uprights, then that kicker has just been ICED! On this episode of the NFL explained. podcast, Aditi and Mike explore the tactic of icing the kicker by analyzing the statistics surrounding the call and reliving some of the most memorable freeze-outs of all time! Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

NFL fans not only love going to their team's home field to see a game, many of us enjoy experiencing other teams' stadiums as well. With each one reflecting the image of the team and the nature of the city in which the team plays, there are many different experiences to be had! On this episode of the NFL explained. podcast, Mike and Aditi take a tour of stadiums throughout the league and talk about what makes each one unique. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.