In this exciting episode of Inside Coverage, hosts Jason Fitz, Jori Epstein and Frank Schwab dive into the latest coaching news (including some breaking news live on the show) before breaking down this weekend's NFC Championship game. First up, the Chicago Bears have made a big splash by hiring Ben Johnson head coach, but they apparently hired him without meeting him in person. The trio explores the implications of this decision, especially considering Caleb's role in the process and the Bears' desperate need for a fresh start. Next, the breaking news drops that Aaron Glenn is heading to the New York Jets, and the trio give their instant analysis before touching on the uncertainty surrounding the Jacksonville Jaguars' future after firing GM Trent Baalke. Meanwhile, the Las Vegas Raiders are still in search of a head coach after their GM hire, and the team debates potential candidates, including the intriguing prospect of Pete Carroll or Anthony Weaver. The Dallas Cowboys seem to be moving in the direction of Brian Schottenheimer in their head coaching search, despite Kellen Moore offering a potentially higher ceiling.
The episode wraps with a preview of the NFC Championship game, where Jori will be braving the cold to watch the action live in Philadelphia. The hosts dive into the concerns surrounding the Philadelphia Eagles’ passing game and discuss how their formula of relying on the run game and a dominant defense could be enough to get them to the Super Bowl. On the other side, Frank gives high praise to Washington’s rising star Jayden Daniels, who might just be the best player on the field Sunday. The gang make their predictions for what promises to be an unforgettable game.

(00:45) - Ben Johnson goes to the Chicago Bears
(18:55) - Aaron Glenn goes to the New York Jets
(22:35) - Jaguars fire Trent Baalke
(29:25) - Other coaching news: Las Vegas Raiders, New England Patriots & Dallas Cowboys
(56:05) - NFC Championship game preview

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❤️ Inside Coverage would be nothing without the impact of our beloved Terez Paylor, who was a pillar of Yahoo Sports' NFL editorial and podcast coverage. We will continue to produce this NFL podcast in his honor, and hope that you can support Terez Paylor's legacy in one of three ways:

• Buy an "All-Juice Team" hoodie or tee. All profits directly fund the Terez A. Paylor scholarship at Howard University: http://breakingt.com/Terez

• Donate directly to the PowerMizzou Journalism Alumni Scholarship in memory of Terez Paylor: https://mizzougivedirect.missouri.edu/fund.aspx?item_id=699

• Donate directly to the Terez A. Paylor Scholarship at Howard University: http://giving.howard.edu/givenow

Under “Tribute,” please note that your gift is made in memory of Terez A. Paylor. Under “Designation,” click on “Other” and write in “Terez A. Paylor Scholarship.”

In today's episode of Football 301, Nate Tice and Matt Harmon break down the latest NFL coaching hires and what they mean for the future of the league. The duo starts off by breaking down the high-profile hiring of Ben Johnson, the new Chicago Bears head coach. Harmon and Tice explore what Johnson’s arrival could mean for future Bears quarterback Caleb Williams, and whether the young signal caller can thrive in a system tailored to his strengths.

Next, the guys analyze the return of Mike Vrabel to the New England Patriots, where he’ll work to reinstate his tough, no-nonsense culture. Tice and Harmon discuss how Vrabel, fresh off a stint with the Tennessee Titans, will reshape a Patriots squad that’s been in transition, especially after a lackluster 2024 season. Next, the duo take a closer look at the most exciting assistant coach hires across the league, including Lou Anarumo as the Indianapolis Colts’ DC and Jeff Ulbrich as the Atlanta Falcons’ defensive coordinator.

Finally, the podcast wraps up by exploring the league’s five remaining head coach openings, including the New Orleans Saints, Jacksonville Jaguars, Dallas Cowboys and more, as Tice and Harmon break down the frontrunners for each opening.

(1:35) - Bears hire HC Ben Johnson

(22:00) - Patriots hire HC Mike Vrabel

(34:10) - Favorite assistant coach hires

(54:50) - Latest news on the remaining HC openings

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The Buffalo Bills edged out the Baltimore Ravens in a 27-25 thriller to advance in the playoffs! Gerald McCoy and Kyle Van Noy dive into how Josh Allen's clutch performance and the Bills' defense secured the win despite Baltimore outgaining them. They break down Mark Andrews’ untimely fumble, Lamar Jackson’s efforts, and Derrick Henry’s impact in a heart-stopping Divisional Round matchup. Plus, predictions for the Conference Championships, the Ravens’ offseason questions, and the biggest playoff Game Wreckers & Playmakers! Don’t miss this packed episode of McCoy & Van Noy!

1:03 - MLK’s Legacy & Kyle’s Commitment 

7:30 - Ravens’ Playoff Heartbreak 

15:27 - Mark Andrews’ Redemption Arc 

25:10 - Chiefs’ Championship DNA 

36:50 - Commanders Upset the Lions 

48:00 - Eagles vs. Rams: Snow Game Classic 

56:25 - Game Wreckers and Playmakers 

58:30 - Conference Championship Predictions

In this episode of Inside Coverage, Jason Fitz and Frank Schwab are still catching their breath from an exhilarating NFL Divisional Round as they break down the biggest moments from a thrilling weekend of playoff action. The duo start with the Baltimore Ravens’ heartbreaking loss to the Buffalo Bills. Mark Andrews’ crucial drop and unforced turnovers haunted Baltimore, but Fitz and Frank agree it wasn’t all on Lamar Jackson. The conversation continues with a deep dive into the Houston Texans’ close loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, where Fitz defends the Chiefs’ win as a product of solid football, not rigged officiating, and discusses whether K.C. is really as dominant as their record suggests.

Moving into the NFC, the Detroit Lions’ disappointing playoff performance raises questions about their coaching staff, while Frank Schwab hypes up rookie QB Jayden Daniels for his impressive season—one of the best in recent memory. The Philadelphia Eagles sneak out a win in the snow, but concerns about their one-dimensionality continue to grow. To wrap up, Fitz and Schwab preview the NFC Championship with a surprising take on the Washington Commanders' chances against the Philadelphia Eagles despite Washington’s defensive struggles.

(1:00) - Baltimore Ravens @ Buffalo Bills

(12:10) - Houston Texans @ Kansas City Chiefs

(28:35) - AFC Championship game early predictions

(29:35) - Washington Commanders @ Detroit Lions

(43:10) - Los Angeles Rams @ Philadelphia Eagles

(54:00) - NFC Championship game early predictions

Subscribe to Inside Coverage on your favorite podcast app:

🎧 Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3AbfhJc

🎧 Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3ymFp3f

📢Yahoo Sports podcast network: https://apple.co/3zEuT

❤️ Inside Coverage would be nothing without the impact of our beloved Terez Paylor, who was a pillar of Yahoo Sports' NFL editorial and podcast coverage. We will continue to produce this NFL podcast in his honor, and hope that you can support Terez Paylor's legacy in one of three ways:

• Buy an "All-Juice Team" hoodie or tee. All profits directly fund the Terez A. Paylor scholarship at Howard University: http://breakingt.com/Terez

• Donate directly to the PowerMizzou Journalism Alumni Scholarship in memory of Terez Paylor: https://mizzougivedirect.missouri.edu/fund.aspx?item_id=699

• Donate directly to the Terez A. Paylor Scholarship at Howard University: http://giving.howard.edu/givenow

Under “Tribute,” please note that your gift is made in memory of Terez A. Paylor. Under “Designation,” click on “Other” and write in “Terez A. Paylor Scholarship.”

Championship matchups are set and Nate Tice and Charles McDonald are here to break down the Divisional Round, starting with Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills getting the best of the Baltimore Ravens. Lamar Jackson and Mark Andrews committed some pivotal turnovers to send the Bills to the AFC Championship vs. the Kansas City Chiefs.

Later on, the guys discuss Saquon Barkley and the Philadelphia Eagles defense taking care of defense vs. Matthew Stafford and the Los Angeles Rams. They also question how far Jalen Hurts can take Philly’s passing game with receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith not getting the ball as much as expected. Next the Eagles will face their NFC East rivals, the Washington Commanders, who pulled off the stunning upset of the Detroit Lions behind the spectacular play of rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. Nate and Charles lament the mistakes made by the Lions, including Jared Goff’s four turnovers.

Finally, they break down the Kansas City Chiefs beating the Houston Texans and discuss the ongoing discourse about the way Patrick Mahomes is treated by the referees.

(1:34) Bills 27 def. Ravens 25

(13:38) Eagles 28 def. Rams 22

(28:43) Commanders 45 def. Lions 31

(41:19) Chiefs 23 def. Texans 14

🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTube

Check out the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at Yahoo Sports Podcasts

Jason Fitz & Charles Robinson sort through the top candidates for each of the open NFL head coaching jobs. Could a Mike McCarthy return to the New Orleans Saints maximize Derek Carr’s potential before they enter a rebuild? Aaron Glenn could be an attractive option for the New York Jets, unless he decides to return to a Detroit Lions organization that’s doing just about everything right. After what he’s done to improve the Tampa Bay Buccaneers run game, could Liam Coen revive the Jacksonville Jaguars running with Travis Ettienne and Tank Bigsby?

Charles puts a stop to all notions that the Dallas Cowboys could make moves to trade up for Shedeur Sanders, but he does believe they’re seriously considering Deion Sanders as their head coach. Another option for the Cowboys is Kellen Moore, especially since it seems Jerry Jones never really wanted to let him go in the first place. Though it may seem unlikely, is there good reason that Ben Johnson would prefer the Las Vegas Raiders job to the Chicago Bears opening?

To wrap, the pair talk through some quarterback drama for the Minnesota Vikings and Cleveland Browns. After two disappointing losses, will the Vikings still consider franchising Sam Darnold or will they move on to J.J. McCarthy? Meanwhile, the Browns seem to have no choice but to draft a QB with the second pick in this year’s draft following Deshaun Watson’s second achilles injury. 

(0:59) Frontrunners for coaching jobs

(1:02) Mike McCarthy to Saints?

(8:05) Aaron Glenn to Jets?

(20:58) Liam Coen to Jaguars?

(26:20) Could Cowboys draft Shedeur Sanders?

(35:30) Kellen Moore to Cowboys?

(39:16) Deion Sanders to Cowboys?

(43:30) Ben Johnson to Raiders?

(49:27) Where will Sam Darnold land?

(58:45) Browns need new QB plans

Subscribe to Inside Coverage on your favorite podcast app:

🎧 Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3AbfhJc

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📢Yahoo Sports podcast network: https://apple.co/3zEuT

❤️ Inside Coverage would be nothing without the impact of our beloved Terez Paylor, who was a pillar of Yahoo Sports' NFL editorial and podcast coverage. We will continue to produce this NFL podcast in his honor, and hope that you can support Terez Paylor's legacy in one of three ways:

• Buy an "All-Juice Team" hoodie or tee. All profits directly fund the Terez A. Paylor scholarship at Howard University: http://breakingt.com/Terez

• Donate directly to the PowerMizzou Journalism Alumni Scholarship in memory of Terez Paylor: https://mizzougivedirect.missouri.edu/fund.aspx?item_id=699

• Donate directly to the Terez A. Paylor Scholarship at Howard University: http://giving.howard.edu/givenow

Under “Tribute,” please note that your gift is made in memory of Terez A. Paylor. Under “Designation,” click on “Other” and write in “Terez A. Paylor Scholarship.”

Nate Tice and Charles McDonald dive deep into every matchup of the Divisional Round, looking at both sides of the ball for the remaining eight playoff teams. They kick the pod off with the Houston Texans visiting the reigning two-time Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs. Can the struggling Texans offensive line protect C.J. Stroud against Chris Jones and the Chiefs defense? And will the Texans defense follow up their impressive Wild Card performance with an encore against Patrick Mahomes? Next, the Washington Commanders take on the Detroit Lions, fresh off their bye. They question whether Jayden Daniels' tendency towards late game heroics will be enough to get the best of Jared Goff, Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery.

The guys also take a look at the Los Angeles Rams matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles and whether LA's young defensive core can do enough to slow down Jalen Hurts and Saquon Barkley. Finally, the hosts dive into the Baltimore Ravens vs. the Buffalo Bills and the battle of MVP favorites Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen. Which superstar will prevail?

(2:20) Houston Texans @ Kansas City Chiefs

(22:10) Washington Commanders @ Detroit Lions

(35:05) Los Angeles Rams @ Philadelphia Eagles

(46:50) Baltimore Ravens at Buffalo Bills

Subscribe to Football 301 on your favorite podcast app:

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In this episode of Inside Coverage, hosts Jason Fitz, Jori Epstein and Frank Schwab go full Christmas Carol as they look into the Dallas Cowboys' past, present and future. The crew start by reacting to the breaking news that Robert Saleh will interview for the vacant head coaching job. Is Saleh the right guy to get the organization over the hump? Next, the hosts step into the Cowboys' past by reflecting on Mike McCarthy’s tenure as head coach. While McCarthy’s regular-season success has been undeniable, the panel debates whether he was truly the coach to break the Cowboys’ playoff drought. Is he the floor raiser Dallas needed, or did the team need someone who could elevate them to the next level?

Moving into the Cowboys' present coaching search, the hosts dissect the latest rumors surrounding potential candidates, including the surprise whispers about Deion Sanders and other possible hires like Kellen Moore and Anthony Lynn. Would Moore, who has a deep connection to the team, be able to guide Dak Prescott to greater heights, or does Dallas need a more seasoned coach with the chops to challenge Jerry Jones’ established culture? Finally, the trio peer into the Cowboys' future and what they would want Jerry to look for in their next coach, from someone who could challenge Jerry's established culture to whether or not the next coach needs previous head coaching experience.

Later, the focus shifts to the NFL playoffs, with a preview of the AFC Divisional Round matchups. The crew gives their thoughts on the Houston Texans vs. Kansas City Chiefs, examining how Houston’s defensive line could exploit Kansas City’s weaknesses. The hosts also break down the Baltimore Ravens vs. Buffalo Bills, discussing how Lamar Jackson & Derrick Henry could lead the Ravens past the Bills, despite Lamar’s past playoff struggles.

(1:00) - Robert Saleh interviews for Cowboys HC job

(9:30) - Cowboys' past & the Mike McCarthy era

(23:20) - Cowboys' present: potential head coach candidates

(32:05) - Cowboys' future: what do the Cowboys need out of their next head coach?

(46:00) - Texans @ Chiefs predictions

(47:50) - Ravens @ Bills predictions

Subscribe to Inside Coverage on your favorite podcast app:

🎧 Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3AbfhJc

🎧 Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3ymFp3f

📢Yahoo Sports podcast network: https://apple.co/3zEuT

❤️ Inside Coverage would be nothing without the impact of our beloved Terez Paylor, who was a pillar of Yahoo Sports' NFL editorial and podcast coverage. We will continue to produce this NFL podcast in his honor, and hope that you can support Terez Paylor's legacy in one of three ways:

• Buy an "All-Juice Team" hoodie or tee. All profits directly fund the Terez A. Paylor scholarship at Howard University: http://breakingt.com/Terez

• Donate directly to the PowerMizzou Journalism Alumni Scholarship in memory of Terez Paylor: https://mizzougivedirect.missouri.edu/fund.aspx?item_id=699

• Donate directly to the Terez A. Paylor Scholarship at Howard University: http://giving.howard.edu/givenow

Under “Tribute,” please note that your gift is made in memory of Terez A. Paylor. Under “Designation,” click on “Other” and write in “Terez A. Paylor Scholarship.”

In this episode of Football 301, hosts Nate Tice and Matt Harmon dive into the aftermath of Wild Card Weekend, offering every team that took an L in the Wild Card round both a full postmortem and a potential offseason plan. They begin by revisiting the Minnesota Vikings' season, highlighting Sam Darnold's commendable but ultimately unsuccessful stint as quarterback. Matt likens Darnold's Vikings tenure to Game of Thrones' tragic Robb Stark, while Nate dissects the ongoing issues with Minnesota’s offensive line and the team's need for drastic improvements.

Next, the duo shifts focus to the Los Angeles Chargers, who just didn't have the juice to hang against the Houston Texans. Nate points out how the Chargers' reliance on star power left them vulnerable, and the Texans’ dominant defensive line exposed their shortcomings. But it’s not all doom and gloom for the Chargers, as the team has solid foundations to build on. The conversation shifts to the Green Bay Packers, where the young roster showed flashes but ultimately couldn't put together consistent performances. Matt and Nate break down the need for a clearer offensive identity. The duo also hit on the Pittsburgh Steelers, who need to take a look in the mirror after yet another early playoff exit.

The episode wraps up with a look at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Denver Broncos. Matt questions whether Tampa's offense can sustain its momentum, particularly with impending changes at offensive coordinator. Despite Bowles' underperforming defense, the Buccaneers could still be a threat in a weak NFC South. Meanwhile, the Broncos’ season is viewed as a success, given their offensive turnaround. Nate and Matt discuss how Denver's strong defense and improving offense could set them up for a brighter future.

(2:20) - Vikings

(24:30) - Chargers

(36:50) - Packers

(48:10) - Steelers

(56:45) - Buccaneers

(1:07:25) - Broncos

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Gerald McCoy and Kyle Van Noy break down an epic Super Wild Card Weekend, covering the Ravens’ dominant win over the Steelers, powered by Lamar Jackson, Derrick Henry, and a stellar offensive line. They discuss what’s next for Pittsburgh and whether it’s time for a fresh start. The Bills’ blowout victory against Denver highlights Josh Allen’s excellence and Buffalo’s revitalized run game, while the Texans shock the Chargers, raising questions about Justin Herbert’s future. The Eagles deliver a defensive masterclass against the Packers, and the Rams’ nine-sack demolition of the Vikings positions them as a serious playoff threat. Rookie QB Jayden Daniels impresses in his playoff debut, leading the Commanders past Tampa Bay.

Game Wreckers & Playmakers highlights standout performances, including Derrick Henry’s dominance and Nolan Smith’s breakout. McCoy and Van Noy also make bold Divisional Round predictions and send heartfelt support to those affected by the LA wildfires. Don’t miss the insights, and subscribe to McCoy & Van Noy for more!

0:00 Welcome to McCoy & Van Noy

2:19 Ravens' Playoff Statement: Lamar, Henry, and O-Line Excellence

17:29 Steelers' Future: Is It Time for a Fresh Start?

27:28 Bills Dominate Broncos: Allen Shines and Buffalo's Run Game Takes Over

30:39 Texans Dominate Chargers: What's Next for Herbert?

36:55 Eagles Ground Packers: Defensive Masterclass Secures Victory

42:21 Rams' Sack Attack and Vikings' Offseason Questions

45:54 Commanders Outlast Bucs: Jayden Daniels Shines in Playoff Debut

54:01 Game Wreckers & Playmakers: Derrick Henry's Dominance, Nolan Smith's Rise, and the Week's Standouts

58:26 Divisional Round Predictions: Who's Moving On?

1:02:00 Sending Support: Prayers for Those Affected by the LA Wildfires

Jason Fitz & Frank Schwab join forces on a rare Monday night edition of Inside Coverage to recap the final game of Wild Card Weekend, as the Los Angeles Rams put an end to the Minnesota Vikings' spectacular 2024 season. The duo discuss the ascension of the Rams defense, Sam Darnold's future and more before bringing on Senior NFL Reporter Jori Epstein to get her inside perspective on the news that Mike McCarthy will not be returning to the Dallas Cowboys.

(00:40) - Minnesota Vikings @ Los Angeles Rams

(11:10) - Divisional round lookahead: who should be the favorite?

(18:15) - Where do Mike McCarthy & the Cowboys go from here?

Subscribe to Inside Coverage on your favorite podcast app:

🎧 Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3AbfhJc

🎧 Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3ymFp3f

📢Yahoo Sports podcast network: https://apple.co/3zEuT

❤️ Inside Coverage would be nothing without the impact of our beloved Terez Paylor, who was a pillar of Yahoo Sports' NFL editorial and podcast coverage. We will continue to produce this NFL podcast in his honor, and hope that you can support Terez Paylor's legacy in one of three ways:

• Buy an "All-Juice Team" hoodie or tee. All profits directly fund the Terez A. Paylor scholarship at Howard University: http://breakingt.com/Terez

• Donate directly to the PowerMizzou Journalism Alumni Scholarship in memory of Terez Paylor: https://mizzougivedirect.missouri.edu/fund.aspx?item_id=699

• Donate directly to the Terez A. Paylor Scholarship at Howard University: http://giving.howard.edu/givenow

Under “Tribute,” please note that your gift is made in memory of Terez A. Paylor. Under “Designation,” click on “Other” and write in “Terez A. Paylor Scholarship.”