Go Long

The Washington Commanders and Chicago Bears take the Monday Night Football stage this week, a matchup featuring the No. 1 and No. 2 overall picks from the 2024 draft.We’ve explored both the Commanders and Bears at length here at Go Long.Loved having the opportunity to chat with Ben Standig who launched his new Substack “Last Man Standig” this fall. Ben has covered the Commanders for a long time and does excellent work in always thinking outside the box.Thanks to all who joined.As always, be sure to download the app for all stories, all audio narration and all future Substack Live videos.And for those who missed it, here are the links to our series — “House of Dysfunction” — from a month ago:* Part I: The Curious Case of Caleb Williams* Part II: Inside the Chicago Bears’ “rigged trial” at No. 1 overall* Part III: Who’s the boss? This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.golongtd.com/subscribe

Here’s your weekly dose of NFC North talk with my co-host Bob McGinn.The Lions steamrolled the hapless Cincinnati Bengals, 37-24, back in David Montgomery’s hometown. This one meant something special to the hard-charging back. Be it Jared Goff’s pinpoint precision, Jahmyr Gibbs’ jukes or Amon-Ra St. Brown’s brilliant route running, these Lions have A-level players all over the field.And the best of the bunch just may be the man the Lions sorely missed last season: Aidan Hutchinson. He saves his best for last in games.Elsewhere, the Minnesota Vikings inched past Cleveland across the pond.Justin Jefferson proved he’s QB-proof. McGinn dissects his special game.Finally, McGinn relives Brett Favre’s unforgettable debut at Lambeau Field vs. the Bengals. We appreciate you all listening, watching and sharing with a friend.ICYMI: * PATRIOT REIGN? How Mike Vrabel and Drake Maye can restart a dynasty of their own* Drake Maye changes the AFC calculus* GL Pod: NFL Revolution with Michael Silver* The Jalen Hurts File? All he does is win... This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.golongtd.com/subscribe

Back in August, I caught up with my pal Michael Silver at Buffalo Bills training camp in Pittsford, NY. It’s always a treat. One of Silver’s stories invariably leads to another. And another. And another. And another. And this day, we were discussing the eccentric main characters of his book, “The Why is Everything: A Story of Football, Rivalry and Revolution.”Silver clearly got the goods. I couldn’t add it to Audible fast enough. Somehow, his book managed to exceed all expectations.Kyle Shanahan, Sean McVay, Matt LaFleur, Mike McDaniel and Raheem Morris drove the sport in a very new direction. Their innovations became commonplace. But to my surprise, Silver’s epic is far, far more than X ‘n Os. The personalities of all the above are fascinating. Thus, I couldn’t wait to welcome Silver onto the Go Long Pod here to discuss in full. Video and audio are above. You can also check this episode out on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, everywhere you pod. (Be sure to rate, review and share on the platform of your choosing!)Of course, we naturally weave the coaches into this 2025 season. McDaniel is feeling the heat in Miami. LaFleur is trying to get Green Bay over the hump.Most of all, do yourself a favor and work “The Why is Everything” into your library. The Amazon link is here. You’ll be left wanting more. Be sure to read all of Silver’s excellent work at The Athletic. He’s also on X @MikeSilver. Thanks, all.ICYMI…The New England Patriots are coming. But how exactly did the Bill Belichick Era turn to rubble? Why did Jerod Mayo fail? We look backward and forward in our latest longform piece at Go Long for paid subscribers. Drake Maye and Mike Vrabel are out to create a dynasty of their own. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.golongtd.com/subscribe

What a week it was in the NFC North. Micah Parsons’ grand return to Dallas had no fairy tale ending. Only questions for that Packers defense… and special teams. (Yikes.) The good news? Romeo Doubs, profiled here, took charge. It wasn’t pretty in Las Vegas. Ben Johnson lost his cool, too. But Caleb Williams’ late drive was enough. Are the skies clearing up for injury-riddled Chicago?J.J. McCarthy returns to practice soon. However, Minnesota’s issues run deeper than the quarterback position at the moment. Harrison Smith is still going strong, but for how long?Meanwhile, Detroit rolls along vs. offensively challenged Cleveland. We get into everything with Hall of Fame scribe Bob McGinn. Time stamps are below.And thank you for sharing Go Long with a friend.* Packers-Cowboys: 12:28* Bears-Raiders: 46:31* Vikings-Steelers: 1:09:13* Lions-Browns: 1:29:41Monday Column, icymi. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.golongtd.com/subscribe

Leverage. Leverage. Leverage. In sum, that is what matters most for the NFL’s players ahead of the next round of CBA negotiations with owners. And right here at Go Long, former NFL quarterback Matt Schaub announced his candidacy to run as Executive Direction of the NFLPA. In exceptional detail, he lays out his plan for the players. I cannot recommend reading his arguments enough.Here on the Go Long Pod, we continue the conversation.Schaub could bring clear, concise, bold direction to a group that sorely needs leadership. Above all, his master plan for leverage is something NFL players have never attempted before: creating their own league.One thing’s for certain. The NFL itself is piecing together plans as we speak. You can watch/listen to our chat above or anywhere you pod, including Apple, Spotify and YouTube. Be sure to follow Schaub on X. At the end of our conversation, we also hit on a few current NFL topics. Did Michael Penix Jr. turn the corner? Also, what makes Kyle Shanahan unique? Schaub worked with the 49ers head man back with the Houston Texans.Thanks, all.We appreciate you rating, reviewing, sharing the podcast with a friend.Recent pieces at Go Long, icymi:* Hope in Gotham? Brian Daboll finds his man at quarterback* “Where do we get some Guinness?!” The Full NFL Ireland Experience* License to Kill: Jackson Hawes infusing Buffalo Bills (and the NFL) with a ‘Full Send Mindset’* TreVeyon Henderson sees the light* Double Doink, Bears memories, QB confidence, Revis Island, Stafford/Goff: Allen Robinson relives it all This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.golongtd.com/subscribe

Happy Valley… to Jacksonville… to Chicago… to several other stops at the tail-end, Allen Robinson experienced a little bit of everything as an NFL wide receiver. Poor QB play. Super Bowl expectations. A torn ACL. 1,000-yard seasons.Contract disputes.Revis Island. Stafford ‘n Goff. There’s a lot to get into and the longtime NFL wide receiver is much obliged. We welcomed Robinson onto our latest Zoom Happy Hour at Go Long this week, and he didn’t disappoint. Thanks to all who joined, and be sure to keep an eye out for future hangouts. Is there an NFL player you’d like to share a virtual beer with? Let me know at golongtd@substack.com.Video and audio is available above. I’ll also post the transcript separately, too. Paid subscribers can always join our Happy Hours. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.golongtd.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.golongtd.comSo much for the post-Ben Johnson haze. The Detroit Lions are just fine on offense.Dan Campbell’s fourth-down swag was back in a 38-30 win over the Baltimore Ravens. Jared Goff knifed clutch completions. Aidan Hutchinson changed the game late. And most encouraging? This offensive line was back to bullying bodies up front.I discuss in full with Bob McGinn…

He’s hardly sleeping and drinking coffee nonstop.He’s working on Eastern Standard Time from the United Kingdom.He lives 24/7 at the edge of offensive innovation in pro football. What a fun time learning more about this 2025 NFL season with a man married to the game: Oliver Connolly at The Read Optional. Here on the Go Long Podcast, we dive into a wealth of topics:* Tebowmania. What a time to be alive.* Detroit’s offense went wild again on MNF. What’s working for new OC John Morton?* The hunt for explosives in today’s NFL.* How rookie tight end Jackson Hawes is opening Joe Brady’s playbook in Buffalo.* Bryce Young is a QB Ollie knows well. Who is the Real Bryce? He has concerns with Dave Canales’ scheme.* What’s wrong with the Atlanta Falcons? (A team we’re high on!) * Six teams are 0-3. Which club still has playoff hope?Video and audio is available above, as well as on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, everywhere you pod.You can always join our live recordings by downloading the Substack app and turning notifications on.ICYMI:Go Long subscribers can hang out with longtime NFL wide receiver Allen Robinson on Thursday night. Our Zoom Happy Hours are back. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.golongtd.com/subscribe

Live from 2 Patriot Place, we touch on a variety of NFL topics and take your questions on Substack Live. Excellent submissions. This Sunday is a major litmus test for Mike Vrabel, Drake Maye and the New England Patriots. The Buffalo Bills are 3-0, too. We discuss their win over Miami on Thursday night — and Go Long-approved bad ass Jackson Hawes. Want to join future broadcasts? Download the Substack app and flip notifications on.Thanks, all.Paid subscribers can gain access to every feature, column and podcast.Our three-parter “House of Dysfunction” is linked here:* Part I: The Curious Case of Caleb Williams* Part II: Inside the Chicago Bears' "rigged trial" at No. 1 overall* Part III: Who's the boss?ICYMI: * No Joe Burrow? Expect the Cincinnati Bengals to keep fighting...* Ty & Bob Pod S4 E2: Are the Green Bay Packers the best team in the NFL?* GL Pod: On the scouting trail with John Middlekauff* Ryan Poles, Brad Holmes and the makings of an NFC North massacre This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.golongtd.com/subscribe

Matt LaFleur couldn’t have scripted a faster start for his Green Bay Packers. Ben Johnson couldn’t have scripted a worse start in Chicago. Dan Campbell’s crew got back on track. Meanwhile, in Minnesota, Kevin O’Connell may be asking himself some hard quarterback questions over the next few weeks. Of course, things always change fast in this league.We di… This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.golongtd.com/subscribe

Perhaps it’s not time for teams to call 9-1-1, but there’s a stench in the air. A few houses are starting to burn. Two weeks into this 2025 NFL Season, I thought we should catch up with the sharp John Middlekauff of the “3 and Out” podcast on The Volume network. Middlekauff is a former scout with the Philadelphia Eagles and always brings a fresh perspective on his show.Here on the Go Long Pod, we naturally dig into the art of scouting — is there a right way to do it? — and riff on a myriad of NFL topics: Cincinnati’s QB conundrum, why Anthony Richardson failed, the traits to look for in a young quarterback, The Honey Badger and what qualifies as a red flag, Ryan Poles’ Chicago Bears gone wrong and Patrick Mahomes. For the first time in his career, Mahomes has lost two games in a row. Many are saying it’s time to PANIC. We both had a much different take on his performance in the Chiefs’ 20-17 loss to Philadelphia. You can watch or listen to this week’s episode above and everywhere you pod, including Apple, Spotify and YouTube. We’re completely powered by you.Thank you for your support.Our entire three-part series on the Chicago Bears — “House of Dysfunction” — is linked here:* Part I: The Curious Case of Caleb Williams* Part II: Inside the Chicago Bears' "rigged trial" at No. 1 overall* Part III: Who's the boss? This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.golongtd.com/subscribe

All respective NFL franchises placed their bets the spring of 2024. Some teams did more homework than others. And in Year 2 of a quarterback’s development, major progress is expected. Each week, all season long, I’ll be joined by a new guest to dissect what we see on Sunday and look ahead.First up: Mike Tanier of Too Deep Zone. Mike always brings an insightful ‘n entertaining flair to his analysis. We previously talked about the best QBs in NFL history on the Go Long Pod. In the aftermath of our Bears series, it only makes sense that we get into everything Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels, Drake Maye, J.J. McCarthy, Bo Nix and Michael Penix Jr. Where are these careers headed? Thanks to all who’ve upgraded to a paid subscription and shared Go Long with a friend. Our series, “House of Dysfunction,” is linked below:* Part I: The Curious Case of Caleb Williams* Part II: Inside the Chicago Bears' "rigged trial" at No. 1 overall* Part III: Who's the boss?Here’s this week’s “Ty & Bob Pod” dissecting everything NFC North:S4 E1: The stage is set in the NFC NorthGo Long was also on hand for one of the best regular-season contests in recent memory:Stunner: Furious rally a testament to the Buffalo Bills' heartAlso: I joined Ethan Strauss to discuss our Bears series if you’d like to check it out.He does exceptional work over at House of Strauss. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.golongtd.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.golongtd.comGood morning! We’re off and running with Season 4 of the “Ty & Bob Pod.” Once again, I’ll be joined by Hall of Famer Bob McGinn each week to break down the NFC North. There’s only one Bob. Absolutely thrilled to bring his season-long analysis to Go Long once again.Full two-hour episodes are always accessible to paid subscribers. Goodness, we’ve got a to…

He’s the only quarterback from the 2024 class who didn’t see the field as a rookie.Finally, the wait is over.J.J. McCarthy is the starting quarterback of the Minnesota Vikings, and this is fairly unprecedented terrain. The Michigan product takes over a 14-win team with clear Super Bowl aspirations. GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and head coach Kevin O’Connell spent big bucks on both lines this past offseason after seeing their team get pushed around by Detroit and the L.A. Rams to finish last season. Sam Darnold regressed sharply in both games and the veteran who threw for 4,319 yards and 35 touchdowns was allowed to walk in free agency. Not many teams would let a quarterback with those numbers exit the building. So, how good is J.J. McCarthy?We get plenty of insight from Matthew Coller of Purple Insider. Video and audio replays are accessible above. You can also check out this podcast on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, everywhere you pod. To join future Substack Live broadcasts, download the app: This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.golongtd.com/subscribe

And just like that, Brandon Beane has locked in his core: Khalil Shakir, Christian Benford, Greg Rousseau, Terrel Bernard and, now, James Cook all inked contract extensions this offseason. Tip of the hat to Terry Pegula for spending this kind of money. The Buffalo Bills know the Super Bowl window is open and wanted to secure their own. Cook’s contract stalemate got testy at the end, but it was always smart for these two sides to meet in the middle. It sends a strong message in the locker room, too.To discuss it all, let’s welcome Jon Scott from WGRZ onto the Go Long Pod. * We analyze Cook’s deal, Cook’s value and why he’s worth a four-year, $46 million contract even as a two-down player.* Will Keon Coleman elevate his game in 2025? The Bills are counting on the wide receiver taking a giant step. He’s had an interesting summer.* Brandon Beane is maximizing Josh Allen’s prime. It just looks different.* Which player surprised Jon most at St. John Fisher? I didn’t see this player’s name coming. * Our causes for concern this season. Cole Bishop’s health is near the top of that list. The Bills’ safety play must improve when a January date with Patrick Mahomes is inevitable.You can watch or listen to our conversation above or anywhere you pod: Apple, Spotify and YouTube. Also: Here’s our latest round of Mailbag questions for paid subscribers. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.golongtd.com/subscribe

Always love talking ball with my former colleague at the Milwaukee Journal Sentinal: longtime beat man, Tom Silverstein.Nobody covers the team beter than “Spoon,” and you can read all of his work right here. Here on the Go Long Podcast, we get updates and analysis on everything Packers…* Jordan Love enters Year 3 as the starter. How is he adjusting his game? The Packers quarterback opened up on how the 2024 injuries affected his running. One year ago, we billed him a future all-time great. It’s a massive season for the $220 million quarterback. * How will rookie wide receiver Matthew Golden factor into the offense? Silverstein believes Matt LaFleur sees shades of Deebo Samuel in Savion Williams, too.* Who leads the Packers in receiving this season? Our friend’s answer may surprise you. * This roster constructed by GM Brian Gutekunst is strong. This is a year-in, year-out playoff team. But who are the A-to-A+ players that get Green Bay to a Super Bowl? * Matt LaFleur is entering his seventh season. As analyzed in the aftermath of his latest playoff loss, it’s not easy for coaches this deep into a tenure with a win to go all the way. His job’s safe but the pressure’s always high at 1265 Lombardi Ave.For those asking, YES, the “Ty & Bob Pod” with Bob McGinn will return for another season. Cannot wait. I’ll share details as we close in on the season.Enjoy.ICYMI:* Drake London blacks out* Welcome to the Junkyard: 'Dying to win,' Grant Delpit is here to change the Cleveland Browns forever* The Revenge of Dalton Kincaid This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.golongtd.com/subscribe

Always a joy to welcome on one of my best friends from the college days at Syracuse: Conor Orr of Sports Illustrated. Great writer. Better father. Loved our conversation on all the above.Each NFL season, there’s a team that sneaks up on everyone. Nobody outside of Dan Quinn’s staff expected the Washington Commanders to reach the NFC title game in 2024.Who goes on an unexpected run in 2025? We discuss. I’m guessing my NFC pick won’t come as a shock. Feel free to offer your surprise teams in the comments, too.Miss any of our 2025 NFL Season Preview features rollin’ out at Go Long? Links below:* Drake London blacks out* Welcome to the Junkyard: 'Dying to win,' Grant Delpit is here to change the Cleveland Browns forever* The Revenge of Dalton Kincaid Go Long is fueled 100 percent by you. Thank you for making us your home for longform.New here? We’d love to welcome you aboard as a paid subscriber this season. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.golongtd.com/subscribe

Joe Flacco or Kenny Pickett?Dillon Gabriel or Shedeur Sanders?The Cleveland Browns are finally freeing themselves of the Deshaun Watson disaster this 2025 season, and the quarterback room has a chance to be more fun than you think. Our season preview features roll along this week with a close look at Grant Delpit and the Browns’ road map to kick ass.So here on the Go Long Pod, let’s chat with Browns beat writer Zac Jackson of The Athletic and host of “Zac Jackson and Friends” podcast.We get a full sense for the state of the Browns in this bareknuckle AFC North.Cleveland would love to become an ornery, violent operation.And after getting outscored by 177 points last season, there are many starters playing with one year left on their deals. Motivation should not be a problem. You can access video and audio of this episode above, as well as Apple, Spotify, YouTube, everywhere you pod. Be sure to rate, review, comment if you’d like. Thanks, all.Go Long is powered completely by our readers. Thank you for joining our community. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.golongtd.com/subscribe

Odds are there’s someone in your life who knows next to nothing about the NFL — but they know Ryan Fitzpatrick. Especially in Buffalo. That’s the power of “Fitzmagic.” The former seventh-round pick from Harvard played for nine different teams through a wildly entertaining 17-year career. There were highs. There were lows. And there was one very specific turning point when Fitz realized he’s got to have fun playing this sport. As you can imagine, Fitzpatrick brings the goods whether we’re reliving his pulsating 2011 win over the New England Patriots, Fred Jackson wrestling teammates inside the locker room, raising seven kids as a nomadic quarterback and… chest hair. And back hair. Because, hell, why not?Fitz sees 2025 as the year for the Bills and offers very rare perspective on what makes Josh Allen different. Video and audio is available above.As always, be on the lookout for words. I’ll transcribe our conversation for those who’d prefer to read. Thanks, everyone. Our 2025 NFL Season Preview features are rollin’ with a look at Dalton Kincaid. The Buffalo Bills tight end opens up on the AFC Championship, living at One Bills Drive all offseason and how he psychologically moved on. A few words from Micah Hyde went a long way. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.golongtd.com/subscribe

Joe Burrow is 100 percent correct: the Super Bowl window is always open as long as he is the starting quarterback. Now, Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins are secured long term. A new defensive coordinator should help young talent grow on that side of the ball. We’ve explored the team’s brilliant offensive mind on staff, too. Dan Pitcher is a wizard and should be an NFL head coach in 2026.So, why do things still feel… off? The business has a way of spilling over to the football field in Cincinnati. The organization is butting heads with its top draft pick (Shemar Stewart) and the NFL’s reigning sack king (Trey Hendrickson) still wants a new deal. At 30, he knows the time is now to cash in. To dissect it all, we place a Substack Live call to our friend Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic and The Growler Podcast. He’s the best of the best on this beat. In fact, our chat with Paul back in March was one of our most-watched episodes of the year.A lot has happened since then. This team has more issues to sort through, but there’s a path toward success… even on defense. Video and audio is accessible above. (H/T to Matthew Coller for the new guitar riff in the intro this season!)Be sure to download the Substack app and flip those notifications ON to join all future live videos. Love fielding any questions you may have.Miss our first 2025 NFL Season Preview feature? Buffalo Bills tight end Dalton Kincaid opens up on that fourth and 5 at Arrowhead, his two knee injuries, his total transformation and thinking “Super Bowl” this season.Exclusive to our paid subscribers.ICYMI:Here’s my chat with Jay Skurski of The Buffalo News on everything Bills-Chiefs, Brandon Beane, Sean McDermott, Dalton Kincaid, AFC East. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.golongtd.com/subscribe