The Lead

At almost every stage of his life people have doubted Hubert Davis. In high school, he couldn't live up to the legend of his uncle, who was a star at North Carolina. Dean Smith questioned whether he could make it with the Tar Heels. Don Nelson didn't think he was good enough for the NBA. And viewers thought he was another washed up pro trying for a second act when he joined ESPN as a broadcaster. In every instance, Davis silenced his detractors. Now, he faces his toughest test yet: taking over for the legendary Roy Williams at North Carolina. Today, The Athletic's Dana O'Neil, who spent time with Davis and his father, tells us why the former star guard is the right man for the job, and what he needs to do in Chapel Hill to quiet his doubters once again.Read Dana O'Neil's story about Hubert Davis: https://theathletic.com/2846499/2021/09/28/all-hoops-no-hoopla-underestimate-north-carolinas-own-hubert-davis-at-your-own-risk/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Earlier this week, the Atlanta Braves defeated the Houston Astros to win their first World Series title since 1995. And one person who was clearly taking in the moment was their 66-year-old manager, Brian Snitker, who has been with the organization since the 1970’s. Today, we’re joined by The Athletic’s David O’Brien to look at how loyalty — of Snitker to his team, and to his players — played a big role in the Braves breaking their World Series drought.Follow David O’Brien’s coverage of the Braves: https://theathletic.com/author/david-obrien/?source=theleadpodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Green Bay Packers and quarterback Aaron Rodgers got caught up in a media firestorm on Wednesday. After it was announced that Rodgers would miss Sunday's game against the Kansas City Chiefs due to Covid protocols, media outlets deduced that Rodgers must not, in fact, be vaccinated -- despite his earlier assertion that he is "immunized." The Athletic's Matt Schneidman, who covers the Packers, joins us to unpack the messy controversy, including what both the NFL and the Packers knew (and when they knew it), and what to expect moving forward.More from Matt Schneidman:https://theathletic.com/author/matt-schneidman/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After four straight losing seasons, the Chicago Bulls have gotten off to a 6-1 start — heading into Tuesday night, the best record in the NBA. Today, we’re joined by The Athletic’s Darnell Mayberry to look at how the Bulls are finding a new formula for success this season, thanks to the addition of veteran DeMar DeRozan, who — along with Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic — has the Bulls suddenly looking like a dangerous team.Read Darnell Mayberry’s full story about DeMar DeRozan: https://theathletic.com/2911205/2021/10/25/hes-mastered-the-game-demar-derozan-relishing-next-chapter-and-mission-with-bulls/?source=theleadpodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

An investigation into the Chicago Blackhawks, triggered by a lawsuit and allegations of sexual assault against a former video coach, have now turned the narrative around the team’s 2010 Stanley Cup victory on its head. The Athletic's Mark Lazerus, who has reported on former coach Brad Aldrich and his disturbing patterns of behavior, joins us to discuss the investigation, the player who has bravely come forward to tell his story, and all the ways the Blackhawks coaching staff and front office failed him. Plus: are there signs that hockey culture is finally changing?More from Mark Lazerus:https://theathletic.com/author/mark-lazerus/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Questions are swirling around Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs as they head into a Monday night showdown with the New York Giants. The team many thought would contend for their second Super Bowl win in three years is struggling to get back to winning ways, and it's left a lot of people pointing their fingers at the team's star quarterback. Today, The Athletic's Nate Taylor tells us what teams are doing to slow down the NFL's most high-powered offense and what Mahomes and his teammates need to do to get their season back on track.Read Nate Taylor's Kansas City Chiefs Coverage: https://theathletic.com/author/nate-taylor/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Lakers made a huge gamble this offseason when they traded for Russell Westbrook, sacrificing a lot in the process. But after a winless preseason and a bad start to the regular season, the questions are now piling up. The Athletic's Bill Oram joins us to explain why the Lakers went all in on Westbrook, the role that LeBron James and Anthony Davis played in courting the former MVP, and why Lakers history suggests that the move could be destined to backfire.More from Bill Oram:https://theathletic.com/author/bill-oram/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was appointed Manchester United manager in December 2018 there were plenty of doubts about the former-striker's ability to lead one of the biggest clubs in world soccer. Three years later, after a drubbing at the hands of United's fiercest rival, many people in and around the club are wondering if Solskjaer's days in charge are numbered. Today, The Athletic's Laurie Whitwell takes us inside the fallout from United's terrible display against Liverpool and tells us what the Red Devils manager needs to do over the next few weeks to avoid getting the sack.Read Laurie Whitwell's Manchester United coverage: https://theathletic.com/author/laurie-whitwell/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

One of the biggest stories of the NHL season so far involves a guy who hasn't even set foot on the ice -- Buffalo Sabres superstar Jack Eichel. After injuring his neck last season, Eichel and his team have now come to an apparent impasse over what kind of surgery he should have to repair a badly herniated disc. And now, that disagreement has caused the generational talent to be stripped of his captaincy and sidelined indefinitely. The Athletic's John Vogl joins us to explain how things have reached a point of no return, what both sides want, and the larger implications the standoff could have for the sport.More from John Vogl:https://theathletic.com/2845419/2021/09/23/vogl-jack-eichel-should-be-allowed-to-live-the-life-he-wants-not-the-life-the-sabres-want-for-him/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The 2021 World Series gets underway tonight, and the Houston Astros are making an appearance for the third time in the last five seasons. Meanwhile, the Atlanta Braves are back in the World Series for the first time since 1999. Today, The Athletic’s Britt Ghiroli tells us how these two powerhouses offenses match up, what’s at stake for both teams, and some under-the-radar players who could have a major impact. Follow Britt Ghiroli’s coverage of Major League Baseball: https://theathletic.com/author/brittany-ghiroli/?source=theleadpodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Coming into this season, the Seattle Seahawks were expected to contend for the NFC West title. However, heading into a Monday night matchup against the Saints, they’re 2-4, with franchise QB Russell Wilson on the sidelines for the first time in his career. Today, we’re joined by The Athletic’s Michael-Shawn Dugar to consider whether journeyman Geno Smith can keep the team afloat, and what might happen for Wilson — and the franchise — if he doesn’t. Follow Michael-Shawn Dugar’s coverage of the Seahawks: https://theathletic.com/author/michael-shawn-dugar/?source=theleadpodcast See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Houston Astros hold a 3-2 lead on the Boston Red Sox in the ALCS, putting them one game away from another World Series appearance. For their manager, the legendary Dusty Baker, another shot at the Fall Classic could give him a chance to rewrite a postseason legacy filled with near misses and tough beats. Today, The Athletic's Jake Kaplan joins us to talk about Baker's tough playoff past and what getting a ring would mean for the man who carried Satchel Paige's golf clubs and palled around with Hank Aaron.Read all of Jake Kaplans Astros coverage: https://theathletic.com/author/jake-kaplan/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Two years ago, LSU football coach Ed Orgeron won a national championship and was on top of the college football world. But now, the native Louisianan is on his way out, with the school announcing on Sunday that he will not be back to coach the Tigers again next season (despite having several years left on his contract). Today, The Athletic's Brody Miller joins us to break down the complicated reasons behind Orgeron's departure, including poor performance on the field, questionable behavior with women, political and racial tension within the locker room, and a Title IX lawsuit alleging that he knew about, and failed to properly report, instances of sexual assault and harassment within the team.Read Brody Miller's full story about Ed Orgeron's downfall:https://theathletic.com/2891847/2021/10/17/he-lost-track-of-who-he-was-inside-ed-orgerons-fall-from-celebrated-son-of-louisiana-to-lsu-coaching-pariah/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Atlanta Braves had the fewest regular season wins of any team in the MLB playoffs. But now, they’re up two games to one on the reigning World Series champions, the L.A. Dodgers — and they’ve shown a knack for winning games in dramatic fashion along the way. Today, we’re joined by The Athletic’s David O’Brien to look at why these Braves seem to rise to the occasion, whether they can bounce back after a crushing Game 3 loss, and just how far their swagger can take them. Follow David O’Brien’s coverage of the Braves: https://theathletic.com/author/david-obrien/?source=theleadpodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A couple weeks ago, the Brooklyn Nets were downplaying concerns about Kyrie Irving's vaccination status and eligibility to play this season. Then, after he was unable to play with the team during much of preseason, those questions became more persistent. And on Wednesday, Irving published a video on Instagram Live where he essentially doubled down on his commitment to not get vaccinated -- and tried to explain his reasoning. Today, as the NBA season kicks off and the Nets begin their quest for a title, The Athletic's Alex Schiffer joins us to discuss the rather confusing video, what Kyrie claims to be standing up for, and how far he is willing to take his fight.Follow all of Alex Schiffer's Brooklyn Nets coverage:https://theathletic.com/author/alex-schiffer/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Baltimore Ravens made a statement on Sunday with their demolition of the Los Angeles Chargers. And while Lamar Jackson didn't put up spectacular numbers in that game, he's evolution as a passer is fueling this Ravens run to the top of the AFC. Today, The Athletic's Jeff Zrebiec on what Jackson and the Ravens did in the off-season to take the star quarterback's game to the next level and what, if anything, Jackson can do to finally silence his doubters.Read all of Jeff Zrebiec's Ravens coverage here: https://theathletic.com/author/jeff-zrebiec/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On Monday, Las Vegas Raiders head coach Jon Gruden resigned after an explosive investigation by the New York Times revealed emails they described as misogynistic and homophobic. Four days later, Raiders owner Mark Davis, who famously courted Gruden for years and made him one of the wealthiest coaches in the game, still has not addressed the situation. Tashan Reed, who covers the Raiders for The Athletic, joins to discuss how the organization has handled the situation thus far, how the players are trying to move forward, and the questions that the Raiders and Davis are yet to answer. More from Tashan Reed:https://theathletic.com/author/tashan-reed/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The 2021 college football season has been full of twists and turns. Alabama lost to an unranked opponent for the first time in over a decade. Clemson is adrift. And Ohio State looks like it has a real fight on its hands to scrap out of a wildly competitive Big Ten East. Today, we talk with The Athletic's Stewart Mandel who tries to make sense of all the chaos and let's us know how this season could affect College Football Playoff expansion talks going forward.Read All of Stewart Mandel's College Football Coverage: https://theathletic.com/author/stewart-mandel/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On Sunday in Phoenix, in Game 1 of the WNBA Finals, the amazing postseason run continued for the Chicago Sky. As Game 2 approaches on Wednesday, we’re joined by The Athletic’s Chantel Jennings to look at how Chicago turned things around after a brutal start to the season, and the no-panic mentality that was instilled by veteran superstar Candace Parker. Read Chantel Jennings’s full story about the Sky’s roller coaster season: https://theathletic.com/2880950/2021/10/10/how-did-the-sky-take-a-1-0-lead-on-the-mercury-in-the-wnba-finals-they-forged-an-identity-as-no-panic-fighters-during-regular-season-struggles/?source=theleadpodcast See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Will the NHL's biggest superstar, Connor McDavid, finally have the supporting cast he needs to bring the Stanley Cup back to Edmonton? Can the league's new expansion team, the Seattle Kraken, duplicate what the Vegas Golden Knights did in their inaugural season a few years ago? Will the Tampa Bay Lightning become the first team in nearly four decades to win three championships in a row? With the 2021-22 NHL season beginning tonight, The Athletic's Eric Duhatschek joins us to discuss all of this and more.Read Eric Duhatschek's NHL coverage:https://theathletic.com/author/eric-duhatschek/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Yet another English Premier League club has now been purchased by a group of Middle Eastern investors with deep ties to their country's government. In this case, the team is Newcastle United -- a club with a rich history, but plenty of recent frustration -- and a group of investors backed by the Saudi Arabian royal family. The deal was officially confirmed on Thursday. Today, James Montague, a contributing writer for The Athletic, discusses the polarizing purchase, its connection to the high-profile murder of a Saudi journalist, and his fiancee's quest to stop the sale from happening. (Note: This is an updated version of an episode that originally aired on May 27, 2020, when it first looked like the deal was going through -- it has been updated to reflect the latest developments.)More from James Montague:https://theathletic.com/1788335/2021/10/06/why-does-saudi-arabia-want-to-buy-newcastle-united/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We’re just four weeks into the 2021 NFL season, but the Jacksonville Jaguars — and the Urban Meyer regime — seem to be spiraling out of control. Today, The Athletic’s Lindsay Jones on the controversy surrounding Meyer and a viral video this week, and a long history of red flags dating back to his time as a college coach at Florida and Ohio State. With the Jaguars now 0-4, how will this saga end for Meyer, team owner Shad Khan and the Jaguars franchise? Read Lindsay Jones’s full story about Urban Meyer: https://theathletic.com/2867670/2021/10/04/jones-jaguars-gambled-on-urban-meyer-and-now-the-winless-team-is-paying-the-price/?source=theleadpodcast See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

NFL players (and especially NFL linemen) have to be huge to make it in the league. But what does that mean for their lives and their bodies after they retire? The Athletic’s Jason Jones recently interviewed a number of retired players about the challenges they face after football -- including the difficulty of changing their diets and shedding pounds -- and a new program that is trying to help.Read Jason Jones's full story:https://theathletic.com/2843273/2021/09/27/you-have-to-retrain-your-brain-to-eat-more-vegetables-for-retired-nfl-lineman-battling-obesity-is-a-different-kind-of-fight/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The NBA's current longest running soap opera is Ben Simmons' quest to get out of Philadelphia. And while the star forward has four years left on his deal with the Sixers, he's refused to come to training camp or relent on the trade demand he made after the team's epic flameout in last year's playoffs. Today, The Athletic's Sam Amick takes us inside the Ben Simmons saga, tells us what drove Simmons to decide his time is over in Philly, and then explains why these situations are now such a divisive issue within the NBA.Read Sam Amick's story on Ben Simmons here: https://theathletic.com/2854156/2021/09/28/ben-simmons-believes-playing-with-joel-embiid-has-run-its-course-and-sixers-media-day-messages-fall-flat-with-him/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The MLB Playoffs begin tonight, and there are some mouth-watering matchups: Yankees vs. Red Sox, Dodgers vs. Cardinals, Astros vs. White Sox, Brewers vs. Braves. And there are a whole lot of questions: Who will emerge from the do-or-die wildcard matchups? Who will end up as World Series champions? And what burning questions do each of these teams face? The Athletic's Brittany Ghiroli joins us to break it all down.Read Brittany Ghiroli's story about the challenges facing each team:https://theathletic.com/2865132/2021/10/04/yankees-dodgers-and-more-1-burning-question-for-every-team-in-the-mlb-postseason/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On Monday Night Football tonight, one the NFL's hottest dynamic duos will take center stage: Justin Herbert and Keenan Allen. The Athletic's Daniel Popper recently sat down with Herbert and Allen, and he joins us to explain how, after a rocky start, the two have developed a special kind of chemistry -- and why comparisons to all-time great QB-WR duos are not out of the question. Then, we break down their matchup with the AFC West-leading Raiders.Read Daniel Popper's full story about Justin Herbert and Keenan Allen:https://theathletic.com/2807609/2021/09/08/justin-herbert-and-keenan-allen-the-nfls-next-great-qb-wr-duo/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On Thursday, The Athletic’s Meg Linehan published a bombshell report that led to the near-immediate firing of Paul Riley, head coach of the North Carolina Courage and two-time NWSL coach of the year. Meg joins us today to talk about the troubling accusations in her story, and the moment of reckoning it has created within the sport.Read Meg Linehan's full report:https://theathletic.com/2857633/2021/09/30/this-guy-has-a-pattern-amid-institutional-failure-former-nwsl-players-accuse-prominent-coach-of-sexual-coercion/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The NFL has managed to get the vast majority of its players vaccinated, thanks to a set of rules that make life pretty difficult -- and football careers much more challenging -- for those who refuse to get a shot. Meanwhile, the league has also made moves to cut down on taunting, causing some critics to bring back the old "No Fun League" label. Lindsay Jones, a national NFL writer for The Athletic, joins us to break down these rules, how they're being enforced, and why they've created some divides within the league.Related stories from Lindsay Jones:https://theathletic.com/2828959/2021/09/21/unvaccinated-nfl-players-living-a-very-different-experience-than-their-vaxxed-teammates/https://theathletic.com/2843970/2021/09/24/as-nfl-taunting-calls-increase-so-do-complaints-about-how-no-fun-league-rule-is-applied/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

At the start of this month, the St. Louis Cardinals were barely hanging on at the fringe of the playoff picture. Now, they've clinched a spot in the postseason and are on a 17-game winning streak. Today, Katie Woo, who covers the Cardinals for The Athletic, breaks down the factors behind the team's dramatic turnaround and historic run, including the two veteran stars who have been with the team for more than 15 years -- and discusses how much noise the Cards can make in the postseason.More from Katie Woo:https://theathletic.com/author/katie-woo/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Last week, just days before the start of their training camp — and a few weeks before the start of the NBA season — the Minnesota Timberwolves made a decision that shocked a lot of people, firing their President of Basketball Operations, Gersson Rosas. The Athletic’s Jon Krawczynski and Shams Charania reported on all the factors that led the team to fire Rosas now — including the impending ownership change to Mark Lore and Alex Rodriguez — and today, Jon joins us to break it all down. Read Jon Krawczynski and Shams Charania’s story about the Gersson Rosas firing: https://theathletic.com/2843710/2021/09/22/gersson-rosas-and-his-downfall-why-the-timberwolves-fired-him-just-days-before-training-camp/?source=theleadpodcast See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After three weeks of competitive action, it looks like the AFC West is the most competitive division in the NFL. The Los Angeles Chargers upended the five time divisional champ Chiefs, while the Raiders and Broncos remained undefeated. Today, The Athletic's Ted Nguyen breaks down the already white hot divisional race out west and he tells us if Justin Fields rough debut in Chicago could have a long-term impact on the rookie quarterback's development.Read all of Ted Nguyen's NFL coverage here: https://theathletic.com/author/ted-nguyen/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From the time he started playing baseball, Sang Ho Baek told his parents that he was going to become a famous pitcher, and would buy them a house someday. Then, after the family moved to the U.S. and Sang began blossoming as a player, his dream seemed within reach. But now the family is trying to bear the weight of a terrible tragedy -- and is looking for answers.Read Stephen Nesbitt's story about Sang Ho Baek:https://theathletic.com/2837568/2021/09/22/his-name-is-sang-he-is-a-pitcher-a-familys-american-dream-their-unbearable-loss/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

AC Milan is one of the most successful clubs in European soccer history. The Italian giants won 7 European titles and changed the way soccer was played on the continent on more than one occasion. Over the past decade, the once indomitable team has fallen on hard times. Two failed ownership bids and poor financial management meant the club had to completely revamp the way it did business. Fortunately, those new methods appear to be working. The Rossoneri made their much delayed return to the Champions League last week and are at the very top of Serie A. Today, we talk with The Athletic's James Horncastle about the fall -- and rise -- of one of Europe's greatest teams.Read James Horncastle's story about AC Milan here: https://theathletic.com/2081869/2020/09/23/inside-ac-milan-waking-a-sleeping-giant/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In a season where they have legit Super Bowl aspirations, the Los Angeles Rams are off to a 2-0 start, and their defense — led by superstars Jalen Ramsey and Aaron Donald — has been a huge part of that equation. But this season, the Rams’ high-powered D is also in the hands of a new coordinator — former NFL head coach Raheem Morris — and today, The Athletic’s Jourdan Rodrigue tells us how Morris is handling L.A.’s stars, and how his own larger-than-life personality is impacting this team on the field. Read Jourdan Rodrigue’s story about Raheem Morris: https://theathletic.com/2774151/2021/09/06/it-cant-be-ego-driven-how-raheem-morris-hopes-to-take-over-the-rams-defense-make-an-impact-along-the-way/?source=theleadpodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Milwaukee Brewers are absolutely running away with the NL Central this season, and that’s thanks largely to their incredible pitching staff. So what exactly is going on in Milwaukee? The Athletic's Eno Sarris recently crunched the numbers and spoke with MLB insiders, and he joins us today to talk about what sets the Brewers' pitchers apart, and how a forward-thinking front office has led to explosive results on the mound. Then, we turn from brewers to breweries and look at why the national craft beer boom has not translated to better beer selections at many ballparks. Eno's story about the Brewers:https://theathletic.com/2816670/2021/09/10/sarris-theres-some-nasty-stuff-and-stuff-brewing-in-milwaukee/Eno's story about the brews:https://theathletic.com/2800477/2021/09/14/as-craft-beer-booms-around-the-country-why-isnt-it-thriving-at-the-ballpark/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Back in January, after a third straight losing season, the Detroit Lions hired a new head coach — former NFL tight end Dan Campbell — who wasted no time in making an unforgettable impression at his introductory press conference. With the Lions set to face the Packers on Monday Night Football, we’re joined by The Athletic’s Chris Burke and Nick Baumgardner, who spoke to former friends and teammates to learn more about the cowboy who now coaches in Detroit. Read Chris Burke and Nick Baumgardner’s story about Dan Campbell: https://theathletic.com/2812356/2021/09/08/dan-campbells-cowboy-chronicles-partying-til-dawn-metallica-living-in-a-camper-and-now-lions-head-coach/?source=theleadpodcast See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

One of the key pieces to last year's Super Bowl run by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers -- and an important part of their title hopes once again this season -- is wide receiver Mike Evans. But as important as Evans has been on the field for the Bucs, he has become even more beloved off it -- both in Tampa and in his hometown of Galveston, Texas. Today, Greg Auman, who covers the Bucs for The Athletic, explains how Evans has overcome seemingly insurmountable odds to win the hearts of fans across the country.Read Greg Auman's full story about Mike Evans:https://theathletic.com/2807881/2021/09/15/a-beacon-of-hope-in-bucs-mike-evans-galveston-cherishes-its-favorite-son/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When Jon Gruden returned to the Raiders, big promises were made about the team's return to its historic winning ways. But so far, wins and postseason berths are in short supply in Las Vegas. Despite numerous changes to the roster, the coaching staff, and the front office, the Raiders are still in the doldrums of NFL mediocrity. Today the Athletic's Vic Tafur takes us through all the ups and downs of Gruden's second go round with the Raiders and tells us if he thinks this is the season when the Super Bowl winner finally finds the perfect recipe to get Vegas back to the mountain top.Read Vic Tafur's Story About Jon Gruden: https://theathletic.com/2819294/2021/09/13/now-or-never-jon-gruden-isnt-on-the-hot-seat-yet-but-its-time-for-the-raiders-to-win/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Lately, one of the hottest teams in baseball has been one with a flair for the dramatic: the Toronto Blue Jays, led by Cy Young contender Robbie Ray and MVP candidate Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Today, we’re joined by The Athletic’s Kaitlyn McGrath to look at everything this team has been through in 2021 — including not having access to their home field — and why they are, all of a sudden, so dangerous. Read Kaitlyn McGrath’s story about the Blue Jays’ improbable comeback victories: https://theathletic.com/2820852/2021/09/12/blue-jays-continue-to-embody-no-quit-attitude-in-pair-of-high-scoring-comeback-wins-over-orioles/?source=theleadpodcast See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Las Vegas Aces' offense has been virtually unstoppable for most of the season. And while the team (and, in particular, reigning league MVP A'ja Wilson) have been lighting it up on the court, they’ve also been having a ton of fun off it. Today, The Athletic’s Chantel Jennings joins us to discuss the Aces' unique blend of offensive firepower, team chemistry, and TikTok dance parties -- and to break down what else is happening in the WNBA as the regular season wraps up and the playoff picture starts to emerge.Read Chantel Jennings' full story about the Las Vegas Aces:https://theathletic.com/2786507/2021/08/24/tik-toks-twerking-and-triumph-how-the-aces-lead-the-league-in-fun-and-winning/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Aaron Rodgers and the Packers flopped...badly. Joe Burrow led the the Cincinnati Bengals to an overtime victory. Kyler Murray stole the show. And Trevor Lawrence actually lost a regular season football game. The Athletic's Arif Hasan joins us to break down some of the most surprising moments of the NFL's opening weekend, along with some of the things we've come to expect (like Patrick Mahomes leading the Chiefs to a dramatic, high-scoring comeback).More from Arif Hasan:https://theathletic.com/author/arif-hasan/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Two weeks ago, Saints head coach Sean Payton was at a press conference, answering questions about preseason, when a reporter asked him if the team had a contingency plan for the storm that was forming off the Gulf Coast. Payton said it was the first he had heard about it. Twenty-four hours later, he and others were scrambling to evacuate players, staff, and family members from the city. The Athletic's Katherine Terrell joins us from the team's new (temporary) home in Texas to explain how things unfolded from there, and to discuss how players are doing on and off the field.Read Katherine Terrell's full story about the Saints' haphazard move:https://theathletic.com/2798305/2021/09/02/inside-the-saints-chaotic-move-to-dallas-as-hurricane-ida-rapidly-approached-new-orleans/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Seven months after Tom Brady and the Bucs beat Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs in the Super Bowl, the 2021 NFL season gets underway tonight, with the defending champions taking on Dak Prescott and the Dallas Cowboys. Today, The Athletic’s Sheil Kapadia gives us seven (mostly) bold predictions for the upcoming season, including his picks to reach the Super Bowl, and some high-profile teams that could be disappointments.  Read Sheil Kapadia’s 32 predictions for the 2021 NFL season: https://theathletic.com/2798591/2021/09/01/32-bold-and-not-so-bold-nfl-predictions-for-2021-patriots-and-the-playoffs-eagles-and-that-pass-rush-and-more/?source=theleadpodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

One of the greatest soccer players in history is, in his words, coming home. Two weekends ago, Cristiano Ronaldo re-signed with Manchester United, the club where he first became world famous almost two decades ago. And now, on the heels of becoming the all-time leading goal scorer in international men's soccer, Ronaldo is expected to make his second debut with Man United this weekend. Today, The Athletic’s Laurie Whitwell takes us inside the Red Devils' successful quest to lure the Portuguese star away from their cross-town rivals Manchester City, and to discuss what his role in the team will be -- and if his presence tips the Premier League title race in their direction.More from Laurie Whitwell:https://theathletic.com/author/laurie-whitwell/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A new Netflix documentary, released today, explores the life of American tennis star Mardy Fish, who famously withdrew from a U.S. Open match against Roger Federer back in 2012. In the years since that fateful day, Fish has opened up about his struggles with severe anxiety, and has become an outspoke advocate for change. Mardy joins us today to talk about the film, his life, and how things have and haven't changed in our country's perceptions of athletes and mental health, particularly in the wake of incidents involving Naomi Osaka and Simone Biles.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Athletic's Katie Strang recently broke the news that the Arizona Coyotes are essentially getting kicked out of their home arena in Glendale, AZ, citing multiple notices about outstanding and delinquent balances owed by the Coyotes. So, to explain how things have gotten so bad, we're replaying an episode that first aired back in February, when Katie joined us to explain some of the problems she had discovered within the Coyotes organization under new owner Alex Meruelo -- many of which relate to the current problems at the arena.Read Katie's recent report about Gila River Arena: https://theathletic.com/2778340/2021/08/19/point-of-no-return-glendale-to-boot-coyotes-from-gila-river-arena-after-2021-22-season/Read Katie's original story about the Coyotes under owner Alex Meruelo: https://theathletic.com/2390146/2021/02/16/arizona-coyotes-investigation-toxic/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On Sunday afternoon, two high school football teams took the field in what looked like an ordinary game, broadcast live on ESPN. And then things got weird. In the days that followed, the Internet became obsessed with one of the teams, Bishop Sycamore, and its elusive head coach, Roy Johnson. Now, amidst a public outcry and a firestorm of questions, the governor of Ohio has called for an investigation into the school and its football program. Today, The Athletic's Andy Staples takes us down the rabbit hole of a school that was not what it seemed.Read Andy Staples and Ari Wasserman's full story about Bishop Sycamore:https://theathletic.com/2798560/2021/08/30/how-the-washington-generals-of-high-school-football-conned-espn/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

One of the NFL's most compelling off-season storylines was the growing quarterback competition up in New England. The New England Patriots drafted Mac Jones to be the quarterback of the future, but it quickly became apparent that Jones might usurp incumbent starter Cam Newton — and that's exactly what happened. Head Coach Bill Belichick and his staff made the bold move to release Newton on Tuesday, and now the team rests in Jones's young hands. Today, The Athletic's Patriots beat reporter, Jeff Howe, tells us how Jones ended up beating out Newton for the starting spot, why the Pats decided to let the former-MVP walk, and what might come next for the 10 year NFL veteran. Read all of Jeff Howe's Patriots coverage here: https://theathletic.com/author/jeff-howe/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It is the all-important month of September in Major League Baseball, with top contenders (including the Yankees and the Dodgers) aiming to peak at exactly the right time, and superstars Fernando Tatis Jr. and Shohei Ohtani hoping to make their MVP push. Today, The Athletic’s Joe Posnanski breaks down the biggest storylines to watch during the final month of the season, including the Giants-Dodgers race in the NL West, the favorites to win the Cy Young, and the Mets’ attempt to turn a thumbs-down August into a thumbs-up September. Follow Joe Posnanski’s coverage of Major League Baseball: https://theathletic.com/author/joe-posnanski/?source=theleadpodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Back in 2015, Logan Thomas was a quarterback on the Miami Dolphins practice squad, living out of a room ($68 a night) at a La Quinta Inn, with his wife, three kids and Great Dane — for 150 days. Five years later, in 2020, he emerged as a difference-making tight end for the Washington Football Team, and received a new $24 million contract this offseason. Today, The Athletic’s Dan Pompei tells the story of Thomas’s remarkable rise from struggling quarterback to standout tight end in the NFL. Read Dan Pompei’s full story about Logan Thomas: https://theathletic.com/2777153/2021/08/19/logan-thomas-remarkable-script-continues-to-be-written-with-the-washington-football-team/?source=theleadpodcast See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.