3 and Out with John Middlekauff

On this episode of 3 & Out, John Middlekauff reacts to the NFL officially releasing the full schedule and breaks down the biggest takeaways from the 2026 slate. Which teams got favorable draws, who got buried with tough stretches, and what stood out most from the schedule release? John also dives into the Week 1 lineup, highlighting the best matchups around the league and the games fans should already have circled on the calendar. Plus, a look at the changing NFL media landscape as Amazon continues to reshape Thursday Night Football and Netflix expands its NFL strategy with more special event games. What do these streaming moves mean for the future of how fans consume football? And could Wednesday NFL games become a real thing? John discusses the possibility and whether the league is pushing the limits of the weekly football calendar. All that and much more on this episode of 3 & Out. Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest.  All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet #VolumeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of 3 & Out, John Middlekauff opens up the mailbag to answer your biggest football questions and dive into some of the hottest debates around the NFL and college football. Why are NFL teams willing to give up home games for international matchups, and what does the league really gain from expanding globally? John breaks down the business side of the NFL’s international push and why owners continue to buy in. He also discusses whether Andy Reid and Sean Payton have lost some of their offensive edge, examining how the league has evolved and whether even the best play-callers eventually get caught by changing trends. Plus, would an NFL Draft Lottery actually work? John looks at the pros, cons, and whether the league could ever seriously consider changing the current draft format. And in the college football world, can Auburn realistically become a powerhouse program again? John talks about what it would take for the Tigers to return to national relevance in today’s NIL and transfer portal era. All that and much more on this episode of 3 & Out. Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest.  All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet #VolumeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

John Middlekauff previews the 2026 PGA Championship at Aronimink and dives into his favorite bets heading into major championship weekend. John breaks down why Cameron Young is his pick to win the PGA Championship, and what a potential Scottie vs Rory Sunday showdown could mean for golf. John also discusses the pressure surrounding Bryson DeChambeau and Jon Rahm after disappointing Masters performances and the ongoing LIV Golf uncertainty hanging over both stars heading into the second major of the year. John reacts to the PGA Championship pairings, gives his favorite best bets for the weekend, and answers mailbag questions about the best PGA Tour courses to watch on TV, driver struggles for amateur golfers, Jon Rahm’s future, and the PGA Tour leaving Hawaii. Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest.  All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet #VolumeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of 3 & Out, John Middlekauff dives into the idea of an NFL Draft Lottery and whether the league should consider changing the current draft order system. Would it help competitive balance, or create even more problems for struggling franchises? John also reacts to the Cowboys and Giants landing the Week 1 Sunday Night Football spotlight and what the matchup says about the NFL’s biggest brands and scheduling priorities. Plus, the Seahawks are still searching for new ownership, and John breaks down what potential changes at the top could mean for the future of the franchise. The conversation then shifts to quarterback battles, as J.J. McCarthy and Kyler Murray become the focus in the Vikings’ QB competition. Who has the edge, and what’s the best path forward for Minnesota? To wrap things up, it’s the Middlekauff Mailbag, with John answering your questions and covering a wide range of NFL topics. Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest.  All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet #VolumeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Colin is joined by John Middlekauff, host of “3 and Out” to talk all things football. They start with the renewed discussions between Notre Dame & USC to potentially revive their rivalry after many top schools won’t schedule Notre Dame and why the new NIL business model of college sports & their lack of quality opponents  has forced Notre Dame to the table (2:00). They also react to an ex UNC quarterback’s disparaging comments about the atmosphere Bill Belichick created and explain why the “Patriot Way” doesn’t work with 18 year olds (8:30). They move to the NFL & discuss the weird situation developing between the Steelers and still unsigned Aaron Rodgers amongst some of their other strange personnel decisions, and Colin predicts the Steelers could be an absolute mess within five years (16:30).  They react to a recent article by The Athletic ranking the top NFL rosters and debate whether the Bills deserve to be ranked at #3 (28:00). Finally, they pivot to NFL win totals, and give their thoughts on the Patriots, 49ers, Vikings, Packers, Bengals and more (34:00).  (Timestamps may vary based on advertisements.) Follow Colin and The Volume on Twitter for the latest content and updates!  #Volume See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of 3 & Out, John Middlekauff is joined by Jackson Groff for a deep dive into the future of college football and the loaded 2027 quarterback class. The guys discuss the growing pressure surrounding Arch Manning and whether the expectations tied to his name are already shaping the draft conversation years in advance. They also break down the debate between Dante Moore and Arch Manning, evaluating their skill sets, upside, and who could ultimately emerge as the top quarterback prospect. Plus, a look at other rising 2027 QB names to know, including CJ Carr and John Mateer, and how the next wave of quarterback talent is shaping up across the country. John and Jackson also discuss Notre Dame’s upcoming schedule, the importance of the USC rivalry, and why those marquee matchups still matter in the changing landscape of college football. And with NIL continuing to dominate the conversation, the guys react to rumors surrounding a potential NIL salary cap and what it could mean for recruiting, roster building, and the future of the sport. All that and much more on this episode of 3 & Out. Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest.  All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet #VolumeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of 3 & Out, John Middlekauff reacts to reports that Aaron Rodgers is expected to re-sign with the Pittsburgh Steelers and is flying to Pittsburgh for the weekend. What does it mean for the Steelers’ outlook and why does this pairing continue to make sense? John also discusses Netflix airing the Week 1 Thursday night matchup between the Rams and 49ers from Australia, another major step in the NFL’s evolving media landscape. The conversation then shifts to the business side of the league, as Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg and billionaire 49ers minority owner Vinod Khosla are reportedly interested in Seahawks ownership. John breaks down what high-profile ownership groups could mean for the future of the franchise. Plus, the Colts’ behind-the-scenes draft video gets rave reviews, and John explains why he thought it was absolutely badass. He also weighs in on why celebrity boxing matches—like Bob Menery vs. Johnny Manziel—can sometimes be more entertaining than UFC cards. To wrap things up, Fugazi Friday returns with reactions to the Dianna Russini and Mike Vrabel boat video and more stories from around the sports world. Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest.  All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet #VolumeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of 3 & Out, John Middlekauff reacts to former UNC quarterback Gio Lopez commenting that Bill Belichick seems to coach in college the same way he coached in the NFL. John also dives into Russell Wilson reportedly weighing his next move between continuing his NFL career with the Jets or stepping into television, discussing what makes sense for the veteran quarterback at this stage of his career. Plus, Jaguars GM James Gladstone shared his thoughts on Travis Hunter, and John reacts to how the Jags will handle the dynamic two-way star next season. Later, John discusses the NBA’s decision to stagger playoff games and why the viewing experience matters more than ever in today’s sports landscape. To wrap things up, John answers your questions in this episode's mailbag segment. From football headlines to broader sports conversations, it’s all covered on this episode of 3 & Out. Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest.  All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet #VolumeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of 3 & Out, John Middlekauff breaks down the key differences between how NFL and NBA teams approach the draft—from evaluating traits and production to projecting long-term upside in two very different leagues. John also looks ahead to Cincinnati and asks the big question: is this finally the year for Joe Burrow and the Bengals? What needs to go right, and where do they stack up in a loaded AFC? Plus, a deep dive into Tampa Bay potentially landing a steal in the draft with Rueben Bain, why the pick could pay off in a big way, and how he fits into the Bucs’ roster moving forward. To wrap things up, it’s the Middlekauff Mailbag, answering your questions and covering a wide range of topics from around the league. Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest.  All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet #VolumeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of 3 & Out, John Middlekauff takes you inside the Cowboys’ draft room following the “The Pick Is In” ESPN feature, breaking down the dynamic between Jerry and Stephen Jones and what it reveals about how Dallas makes decisions on draft night. John also dives into the latest surrounding the Steelers’ Aaron Rodgers situation and a potential connection to the Arizona Cardinals, unpacking the rumors and what could realistically happen. Plus, why Anthony Richardson appears to have little to no trade market right now, and what that says about how teams view his development. On the flip side, John discusses Fernando Mendoza and why playing exclusively under center might be the only thing holding him back from starting over Kirk Cousins. Later, a look at Patrick Mahomes attacking his rehab and what it means for the Chiefs as they gear up for another run. To wrap things up, John answers your questions in this episodes mailbag segment. From behind-the-scenes draft insight to quarterback storylines across the league, it’s all covered on this episode of 3 & Out. Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest.  All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet #VolumeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of 3 & Out, John Middlekauff dives into the philosophy of taking big swings in the NFL Draft—when it pays off, when it backfires, and which teams weren’t afraid to bet on upside this year. John also reacts to Kyle Shanahan breaking down the 49ers’ draft class, giving insight into how San Francisco approached their picks and what it means for their roster moving forward. Plus, Fugazi Friday returns as John talks about the biggest problem in ALL hotel rooms. To wrap things up, it’s the Middlekauff Mailbag, featuring answers to your questions and covering a wide range of NFL topics. Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest.  All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet #VolumeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of 3 & Out, John Middlekauff reveals how the Los Angeles Rams had their sights set on Ty Simpson well before the draft, breaking down the pre-draft process and why Sean McVay’s group was locked in on their guy. What does it say about Simpson’s future in L.A.? John also dives into the ongoing Mike Vrabel storyline that just won’t go away, unpacking the latest developments and what it could mean for his future in the league. Plus, the Cleveland Browns appear poised to roll with Deshaun Watson as their starting quarterback—John discusses the decision, the risks involved, and what it means for the team heading into the season. To wrap things up, it’s the Middlekauff Mailbag, with John answering your questions and hitting on a wide range of NFL topics. Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest.  All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet #VolumeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

John Middlekauff tees off by reacting to the news reports that LIV Golf may be shut down by the end of the year and what is next for the startup league. John then recaps the Zurich Classic, in which Matt Fitzpatrick and his brother, Alex Fitzpatrick, won in riveting fashion plus secured Alex a spot on the PGA Tour. John then dives into his best bets for the Cadillac Championship in Miami, Florida. John wraps up with the GoLow Mailbag where he answers all of your golf questions. Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest.  All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet #Volume  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of 3 & Out, John Middlekauff dives into the Steelers getting scooped by the Cowboys in the Lemon trade and what it says about how quickly deals come together in the NFL. Did Pittsburgh miss an opportunity, or did Dallas simply outmaneuver them at the right time? John also takes a broader look at this year’s draft classes—who stood out, which teams helped themselves the most, and where some organizations may have come up short. Plus, is the pressure starting to mount on Giants GM Joe Schoen? John discusses where things stand in New York and whether his seat is getting hot. He also reacts to the news of Brendan Sorsby entering rehab for gambling, addressing the seriousness of the situation and what it could mean for his future. To wrap things up, it’s the Middlekauff Mailbag, answering your questions and covering a wide range of NFL topics. Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest.  All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet #VolumeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of 3 & Out, John Middlekauff breaks down the Pittsburgh Steelers’ draft and what their selections say about the team’s direction moving forward. Did they do enough to stay competitive in a loaded AFC, or are there still major questions to answer? John also revisits the Rams’ decision to take Ty Simpson, diving into how he fits in Los Angeles and what the pick means for the future of the franchise. Plus, a full look at the San Francisco 49ers’ draft—how they approached their roster needs and whether they did enough to keep their Super Bowl window wide open. Later, the SEC once again leads the way with the most players selected in the NFL Draft. John discusses what continues to separate the conference and why it remains the premier pipeline to the league. From certain team breakdowns to big-picture draft trends, it’s all covered on this episode of 3 & Out. Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest.  All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet #VolumeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Colin is  joined by John Middlekauff, host of “3 and Out” to break down the NFL Draft. Colin begins by arguing that GM Brett Veach of the Chiefs drafts predictably & he can’t figure out 49ers GM John Lynch, and John explains that Lynch doesn’t run the 49ers draft… head coach Kyle Shanahan does (3:00). They discuss the backlash to the  Bears taking speedster Zayvian Johnson and Colin explains that if any coach picked him, it may not be a great pick…but with Ben Johnson as coach it can work (9:00).  They move to the Rams & Colin argues that while their draft won’t grade well… outside of Ty Simpson, the Rams are drafting for the near term while they still have Matt Stafford and John believes Simpson wasn’t talented enough to justify the 13th pick (15:00). Colin believes the Raiders crushed the draft and Fernando Mendoza could change the trajectory of the franchise (25:00), and they discuss the impact of NIL creating less seasoned, older prospects with multiple years of high-end college football experience in the later rounds (28:30).  They break down the Chiefs draft and why it made total sense for them to draft 3 defensive players with their three Top 40 picks (31:30), and Colin lauds the Cowboys for focusing on improving their defense as well by getting the steal of the draft in Caleb Downs (37:00).  They debate whether Carson Beck will see the field for the Cardinals in his first season (45:00), and they each predict four teams that didn’t make the playoffs last season that will make the playoffs in 2026 (48:00).  Finally, they react to the Steelers choosing Penn State quarterback Drew Allar (54:00).  (Timestamps may vary based on advertisements.) Follow Colin and The Volume on Twitter for the latest content and updates!  #Volume See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

John reacts to Day 2 of the NFL Draft. Have the Jets won the first two days of the draft? Are the Eagles making moves that will make them a much better team? All that and more! Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest.  All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet #VolumeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of 3 & Out, John Middlekauff breaks down a wild NFL Draft slate starting with the Los Angeles Rams selecting Ty Simpson at No. 13. Is he the long-term answer under center, and what does the pick say about the Rams’ direction? John also dives into the Tennessee Titans’ connection to Carnell Tate and how he could fit into their offense, before taking a closer look at the New York Giants’ overall draft approach and what they’re trying to build. Plus, the Kansas City Chiefs make another aggressive move, trading for an LSU corner—how it strengthens an already loaded roster and what it means for the AFC. And one of the more surprising storylines: Reuben Bain sliding all the way to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Did Tampa just land one of the steals of the draft? From bold QB decisions to late-round value and team-building strategies, it’s all covered on this episode of 3 & Out. Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest.  All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet #VolumeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Colin is joined by John Middlekauff, host of “3 and Out” to break down the NFL Draft. They start with the Rams drafting Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson at pick #13 and why it was shocking for them to pick him so high after a limited sample size in college, but Colin argues if anyone can turn Simpson into a great quarterback…it’s Sean McVay (3:00). Colin heaps praise on the Cowboys for drafting Caleb Downs and highlights the massive upgrades Dallas has made to their defense rather than paying Micah Parsons (10:30). They agree that the Bucs got great value in taking Reuben Bain at #15 after experts projected him as a top 10 pick (13:45). They discuss the Chiefs moving up to #6 to take cornerback Mansoor Delane and both agree they had no issues with the trade up to get a much cheaper replacement for Trent McDuffie (15:00). Colin argues that both New York teams did well with their combined 4 first round picks and doesn’t see any busts in the group (23:00).  They react to the Titans taking Ohio State WR Carnell Tate at #4, and John believes Tate was a massive reach and that Tate doesn’t have the elite upside that would justify such a high pick (26:00). They both believe that Kadyn Proctor is the most likely Top 15 pick to bust based on reports about his lack of work ethic (29:15).  Colin predicts accurately that the Eagles would take USC wide receiver Makai Lemon after trading up, and says that it's the perfect move to patch the hole that will be left after the team trades AJ Brown (33:00).  They discuss the overall quality of this first round draft class, note that it’s been very offensive line heavy and explain why you can’t go wrong drafting o-line in the first round (39:00).  Finally, they discuss why the Big Ten is leaving the SEC in the dust when it comes to producing first round NFL talent and react live to the late first round picks for the Chargers, Cowboys & more (50:00+).  (Timestamps may vary based on advertisements.) Follow Colin and The Volume on Twitter for the latest content and updates!  #Volume See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this Pre-Draft show, John gives his 10 bold predictions heading into the NFL Draft. How many running backs will be taken in the first round? Will Aaron Rodgers announce his return before or during the draft? How early will Love get drafted? All that and more! Follow John on Twitter, and Instagram for the latest.  All lines provided by Hard Rock Bet #VolumeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.