Hail on Three
Three fans, two continents, one team. Hail on Three brings together Josh Edwards, James Barker and Lee Edwards to talk Washington Commanders football—the good, the bad and the downright baffling. Expect game talk, guests, hot takes and plenty of side tangents. Whether we’re winning or rebuilding (again), we’re along for the ride.
Weekly preview and recap shows throughout the season. Hail.
Hail on Three
Wildcard Weekend Playoff Preview Episode!
Use Left/Right to seek, Home/End to jump to start or end. Hold shift to jump forward or backward.
Josh, James and Lee get together to preview Wildcard Weekend! The pod includes:
- Commanders co-ordinator chat including more on Kliff and the possibility of Mike McDaniel as OC
- A recap of season predictions from the boys and listeners
- Wildcard weekend game previews and picks
- Our full playoff brackets (spoiler - we all had the same Super Bowl matchup!)
- Rooting interests, frauds, and who we DONT want to progress
- Enjoying wildcard weekend
@HailOnThreePod
How would you describe the culture surrounding this football team? You know, the culture is actually damn good. Uh, playoffs. Don't talk about playoffs. You kidding me? Playoffs. I just hope we can win a game, another game.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Welcome to another edition of the Hail on Free podcast. It's Friday. The first working week of the year is finished for me and James at least, and almost finished for Lee. I have both the guys on the podcast and it is a playoff wild card weekend playoff preview show. we're gonna talk a lot about the playoff games upcoming and the entirety of the playoffs with our brackets that we've each filled out excitingly ahead of the playoffs. But we're also gonna talk about the predictions that many people contributed to before the season. some less good predictions, looking at the spreadsheet. And some decent ones as well that I'm gonna clip back in'cause fair play to some people of what they chose. But we're also gonna start off with this week some discussion'cause Lee wasn't on the podcast in time earlier in the week for the firings of both coordinators. So we'll do a bit of Washington to start, uh, but I'm gonna fire it over to Lee. Lee, is the working day still for you but almost the week is over? How are you doing in Chicago?
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:Hello sports fans. Yeah, the most depressing working week of the year, which has also felt extremely busy, is coming to a close, which I'm excited about. And the city, as you can imagine here, is gearing up for probably its biggest game in over a decade, especially considering the opponent. So I'm quite jealous about that, but it is keeping the kind of football energy going if nothing else. So I'm actually really looking forward to the weekend ahead, especially after you sent us that little bracket. you know what? I feel like World Card Weekend is a bit of a damp squid sometimes some pretty bad teams get in there this year, maybe outside of the Panthers. It's all looking pretty strong teams, so I'm excited.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Oh, you've ruined James's Dark Horse. The Panthers already.
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:I'm not, I'm not, I'm not going back to that. Well, I've, I'll bow out while I've, uh, had a win.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah. Yeah. Fair enough. How are you doing, James?
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah, I am good. Thank you. Friday night here. So, um, yeah, all good and ready to talk about the playoffs and not too much about Washington for once.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:No indeed. And we did want this to be a, a show that could be a bit more accessible for people that are non Washington fans, who are either got teams in the playoffs or gonna be watching football all weekend. So we will use that as the meat of the show, but it would be remiss of us not to discuss the three of us being together, the firings of. Joe Whitt Jr. And Cliff Kingsbury. Um, and Leo, I'll let you go first because James and I obviously hopped on to do a quick hit on it to plug into the podcast. Earlier in the week, we didn't get to chat to you live a lots of stuff on the chat, but your, uh, your reaction when it happened. Now you can discuss with the listeners and also kind of thoughts on potential hirings as people are starting to speculate.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:Yeah, firstly, that was typical. I think we hadn't done a pod for a few weeks had we, and then we finally get together after the Christmas festivities and within two hours of recording washing mates, the big move. Um, as we kind of speculated, it didn't come as a huge surprise given the stories that came out the weekend, last weekend of the season with Ian and Kay. Uh, yeah, I listened to you guys and I was, you know, having slept on it and kind of listened to that. I, I do agree in a sense like Quinn has, I kind of respect the move from Quinn a little bit if he's not feeling the direction.'cause at least now he's gone all in. He chips all in, he is really got to fall back on if this goes wrong, has he? But that said, cliff Kingsbury's offense in 2024 was absolutely elite. So. The fan base know for the reason for the success in 2024, and it certainly wasn't the defense side of the ball, was it? So there is gonna be a huge amount of pressure on Quinn, and maybe for someone who doesn't quite believe that Quinn's gonna be the guy for us, I'm kind of okay with that, if that makes some sense.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah, it does make sense. And I think one of the things that about on the previous pod before we knew that Cliff was going or being fired that I, I wasn't necessarily. Early certain that he would get head coaching opportunities. This cycle, um, that's already been kind of blown out of the water by the looks of things. There's eight openings and he's already been reported to be interviewing for a couple, including the Ravens opening and the Titans opening. So it looks like Cliff is gonna, um, be insulated from the problems we had this year and get a head coaching job this cycle. Um, which fair play to you both said is, is still, uh, what you predicted? Um. I guess defensively, always knew that Joe Whit Junior was gonna go. Um, to me that feels like the more important one. And I, that sounds a bit crazy, but what do you think, James, in terms of which one to get right? If we have to, given we've got Jaden on the offensive side is defensive coordinate and not more important.
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah, that's a fair point. I think obviously the, the bigger story is Cliff. It's the bigger name and, um, more of a shock. So, but yeah, I mean, you, this defense has to be right. This year. So I would say the pressure's on Quinn to get that right more than the offensive coordinator. Um, because since he's come here, we have not had a good defense and that's supposed to be his bread and butter. So, um, yeah, I mean, it's hard to put one against the other. Obviously both just important with each other really. But I think internally he'll be thinking he's got to get this, this defense. Right. Um, uh, for sure. I mean. I've not seen too many names thrown out there for defense. I know, Lee, you had a couple of theories. Um, offense. I think there's a big name that's come available the last couple days. I'm sure we would, we would all love in, uh, Mike McDaniel. Um, so yeah, good question Josh, and a tricky one to answer, but I would say in, in terms of Dan Quinn's decision, that probably has the more pressure because if he gets that wrong again, I mean. What, what Steven doing here.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:That's a good point and it's a good, um, fe for thought for sure. For me, it's all about the offense. So with Jayden down, he's a superstar because. I feel like that's our real only chance to be top tier in the league and defense. You just have to get right in the extent to get us to be an average defense, if that makes sense. So I can kind of tell why the more sexy side of the ball gets more of the headlines. But you're right, Quinn could not have a 28 to 32 defense again, can he?'cause otherwise he will be out the door because as good as Jaden Daniels might be. was a lot. Went into 2024, wasn't it? It was a pretty weak schedule. There's all them wins. With the last play of the game, we had some backup callbacks on the, you know, on the, on the schedule, et cetera. Things fell right for us. It was the opposite this year where everyone that was supposed to be strong were strong. There was no like surprises there. So yeah, I do still feel like Jaden Daniels is this team going forward. So the connection there has to be the one that for me has to get right just so we can be a top five unit with him at the helm. But that goes into all kinds of other conversations, right? It's like, well then if you get to that top five with Jayden Daniels, then you're gonna lose your AC anyway, aren't you? But it's like, so then why do we have a defensive guy, you know? And there's, would. as far as saying, I would very much consider just, um, doing something crazy and just giving McDaniel the job and firing Quinn. But that won't
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Well.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:we know. Um, but if you get one good year out of him, then what's the conversation this time next year if we like losing the division around or something after winning double digit games, you know, so.
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:I would, I would say though, on the defense, I feel like Daniel Ceiling is capped if our defense is just as bad next year because he, he's more likely to put himself in harm's way, desperate, trying to catch up, making desperate plays, and he, he just doesn't have a chance to grow and there's too much on him, especially when you've got good opponents like we saw this year. So, yeah, I mean, they've gotta get all of it right, really. Um, for Quinn to survive.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:The, the one thing that is a bit frustrating, I guess, is that we, we all do seem to think that Quinn isn't, isn't a long term answer and that the likelihood of winning under him is quite low. And then it's a season where John Hub or Kevin Efan and Mike McDaniel are all available for interview, for head coaching
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:And you think, oh, it's just frustrating that that happens.
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah,
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:what have we had before with the, the kind of pick of the litter with,
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:and
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:uh.
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:what Lee said the other day, it's quite simple, but kind of stuck with me. It's just like, can you. This might sound hard for me, pick Ryan, but like, can you imagine Dan Quinn like winning a Super Bowl? Like, I dunno, just looks like someone who's just not gonna win something. Is it just as simple as that?
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:eye test. The eye test is like almost. Yeah. Fair enough. Um, any, before we move on, any real quick thoughts on preferences? I mean, we've all mentioned Mike McDaniel. Um, um, he's been fired obviously by Miami, uh, as they seem to be looking at John Harbour. I think, you know.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:I think, yeah, I think we have to talk about McDaniel'cause that's quite big news that looked like he was gonna stay, didn't it? So, because he does have that connection with Quinn from Atlanta. So, I mean, Quinn seems to have a connection with everyone in a way, but he did have obviously Kyle in the, as his OC in that Super Bowl year that they blew. Um, and on that staff, I think he was an offensive assistant maybe, or he was like a run game coordinator, one of the two. So he has that connection. Uh, there was also some stories about when. McDaniels was having some issues in his personal life that Quinn was a, you know, a great mentor and really solid for him. So there's definitely that, and I believe McDaniels has made some quotes about Jaden Daniels in the past. So as much as you don't want to just put all your eggs into one basket, in terms of the hope for the fan base, I would say that 80. 90% of our fan base would be desperately hoping for that. And it's someone that we didn't think would be available. So that's kind of, I'm just really looking at that and then seeing if that doesn't happen where the chips fall. There's talk about, obviously David Blau on the staff who's been very highly touted, but that would have a lot of risks for Dan Quinn'cause he is never called plays before. So yeah, we'll see.
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah, I think. I think it would actually be a massive failure by the franchise if, but Daniel is an OC somewhere else next year if he gets a head coach, job fair play. But we cannot be missing out on him, uh, for an offensive coordinator gig to someone else
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:I mean it, maybe it's the bubble of Washington, but it just seems like we are the most likely OC. Gig and it's between whether he wants to come and work with Jaden under Quinn or whether he wants a head coaching job somewhere. I think he'll get
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:just
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:though,
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:overpay him, like fancy up his title like we've done for the enemy.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah. Nice. Okay. Um, let's, let's move on then. We'll, we'll obviously have some chat about, um, this, when it happens. I will just say, I don't think it's gonna be anytime soon. I think we have to be patient with this because of the coaching cycle and the playoffs and how the kind of dominoes will fall. And there'll be people in teams that are in the playoffs that will be in the head coaching cycle as well. So it might be three or four weeks potentially.
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Sorry, I just got a wrap sheet notification. We've interviewed chief's defensive line coachs Joe Cullen for the vacant defensive coordinator job. No need for me to get up.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:hired someone then, as I said, it would take four weeks. Jay Cullen,
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Joe Cullen. No need for me to get up.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:the Darts player.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:This is just, um, we've had a couple of these interviews already that sound like no one's really heard of them and are very underwhelming, so let's just
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Is this just a process thing? Yeah.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:process. Um, there's a lot of defensive people that would make sense as well,
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Mm-hmm.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:that just seems to be a little bit more of a mystery. So I'm sure there'll be an emergency pod quick 20 minutes drop
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:over the next couple of weeks.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah, exactly. That would be the plan. Cool. Alright. Um. Onto our, as we discussed in the last episode, we wanted to get a bit of a discussion going maybe a bit of a reckoning on our pre-season predictions. We had a show where people, uh, I think we got almost 15 or so people contributing predictions of this season, how they thought it would play out. We're obviously not right at the end of it. So there's a few things that are, um. Decided yet to talk through, but I did fire up the spreadsheet, got a bit of color coding going on some of the, the things that people got right and the things that we absolutely didn't get right, and some of the stuff that's in, draft as we wait to see who wins the Super Bowl and stuff. Let's start with us three, because I think it's worth saying that we didn't do a. Brilliant job overall in predicting, across the categories. I'll just really quickly run through the categories we had. Surprise, playoff team, offensive Rookie of the year, defensive rookie of the year, uh, the two championship teams, the Super Bowl winner, our record, and a wild hot take. James, I'm gonna give you a big thumbs up. Fair play, well done to you. Your surprise playoff team, the only one that hit of the three of us, the Panthers.
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah, and there's never in doubt, right? A convi convincing division win.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:they clinched it on the final day without playing.
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah, thanks to, uh, Kurt Cousins.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:yeah, exactly. I had the titans, Leo, the Falcons, so. It didn't go particularly well for us on those. Um, one other one that I will again give James props to is that the chiefs, well, you, you went so far as to say they don't win the A FC West. So well done. Um, obviously missed out on the playoffs for the first time in a long time. Um, so fair play there. I did not do very well on, on my predictions. We'll skim over them to be honest. But Lee, you are still very much alive in the uh, super Bowl stakes'cause you had the Packers bills in the Super Bowl and the bills winning the Super Bowl, so you might salvage it a bit if that does end up happening.
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:How, how did it go with, there's a few like what? Offensive rookie shouts and defensive rookie. Are any of them looking light yet? Dunno. Anyone got a good go?
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:I've got a good one. I'll play it um, quickly'cause Tanner's had this to say about offensive rookie of the year.
I think McMillan is my pick for offensive rookie of the year. He's gonna get about 50 targets and he looks like he's on an absolute beast.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:So Ted McMillan there, as Tan has described, is the prohibitive favorite for our offensive rookie of the year. So he's li very likely to win that. Looking at the odds at this point, uh, everyone else went for Henderson Gente, cam Ward or Jackson Dart. Apart from. Glynn who went for the Chargers, guy who hurt his ankle at Hampton. So fair play to tunnels. I think he's the only one across both offensive and defensive rookie of the year that is likely to win it. Um, looking at defensive, nobody had the Browns, uh, linebacker, who is the favorite to win that? Um, Caston Schweisinger, who's been their leading tackler and sack sack machine and, and played really well. Um, I will say though, that we had. A couple of people picked James pce Jr. Miles obviously is a Falcon's Homer, but also your good lady James, who picked James pce Jr. Uh,
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:she knows ball.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah, he had more than 10 sacks and I think is is the second in the running for defensive rookie of the year. So fair play to Leanne.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:A lot of people had a Carter, didn't they? With
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:New York, I feel like.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah, it was literally Carter James Piss Jr. Or I think Pete went from Malachi Starks. So no one particularly doing too well on the rookie front there. Um, but when it's a linebacker and a wide receiver, um, rather than a defensive lineman and a quarterback, it's pretty rare, I'd imagine. a couple of other good ones to quickly point out on the wild hot takes. Actually, Lee, I will give you a bit of props'cause you said that someone in our group would miss the flight back from Madrid and it was probably a bit closer than, than it needed to be. Both for you and for Ollie. For different reasons.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:My flight was so delayed that I tried to be proactive and the airline literally messed it up. But yeah, luckily it was salvaged and then Ollie's flight took off early
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah,
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Uh, I, I still call bullshit on that. I think he got his times mixed up and was in a sudden panic. I.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:could be. I mean it I looking at him as we left that bar, that's very much
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Just, just looking at him generally
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:possibility.
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:as an Norge fan, it's very possible.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah, it is a possibility. Uh, one more I wanted to, uh, say Glen, his wild hot take. I mean, not necessarily too wild, um, more he could have had it as a surprise playoff team, but he also had the Panthers making the playoffs.
And then my one uptake is the Carolina Panthers are no longer crap, and they make the playoffs.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Um, and then I'm gonna play tunnels again because his wild hot take here is a pretty good one.
Finally, um, my outlandish partake, dunno how much an outtake it's, but I think that the Dolphins will bench tour in week 10 or 11. I think they'll finish with the worst record in the NFL and I think they'll be tanking for a new quarterback from the end of the season.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:So Dolphin's benching tour. Then, I mean, they didn't tank for a quarterback'cause they actually played all right in some of those games and won more games than they think they thought they would. But that's a fair shout. I don't think many people would've expected that. So two for two there for tennis. So good work, mate. Um, I don't,
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:to get to my buddy Dan as well. Um,
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:the last one. Yeah.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:yeah, from Philadelphia. So he had the Jags making the playoffs. Now they were in it for the number one seed the last couple of weeks, but let's remember how many games they won last year. So that was a good shout. And he also said, and this was, I mean, I think this was a probably the pick of the lot. So Josh, you're gonna do that.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah, clip it in.
One random hot take. Uh, Joe Flacco becomes the first NFL quarterback to become a grandfather. All right, hope that's good.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:I think he has to get four points for that, even though it's a different person.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:the right person, but that's so, it's so out of, you know, it's so out the box. I love it. You
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:gimme a lot of credit for that. So, yeah, I.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah, absolutely. Um, saw Philip Rivers coming back? Eh, and that being part of our season narrative. Uh, so good work. We'll do that every year'cause it's good fun. I mean, some of the record stuff, I'll just shout out. Um, only person to pick a Commander's losing record was Glen eight and nine. Optimistic in the end, everyone else had us winning, uh, winning record. Um, nine and eight. Lots of nine and eights and stuff, which maybe we would've been around then if Jaden was healthy. With the rest of the team being so poor. But, um, yeah, that was good fun. Any, any others? I don't think there's any other obvious ones that we've missed out there. Um, Eagle's missed playoffs. Didn't, uh, go too well.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:that was more of a hope. Yeah. I think we're ready for some playoff talk now.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:do it.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:too depress pressing to look at. Look at my predictions.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:All right. Uh, one of my favorite weekends of the year. I do think next weekend is better overall, but I do like with the extra games we've got now as well, card weekend.'cause it goes right across it. And it actually is better for the UK audience'cause we have some good times. Um, so we're gonna go game by game. Uh, we're gonna give our, we're. Winners who we think we're gonna win this weekend and talk a little bit about each game. And as we do that, we'll then carry on through and do our full brackets after the talking about these weekend games. And we'll probably sprinkle in some kind of dark horses and teams we're rooting for and against as well. So let's start with Saturday. Evening, so nine 30 UK time. The number five seed rams. At the number four seed. James' Carolina Panthers, the start of you, James, on, on that game generally how you think that'll go and, and will it maybe be a surprise?
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Uh, I, I think it might be an early kind of slog, uh, to start the game, but, um, the Rams will have too much, uh, sounds like Devonte Adams back. Uh, Adams is back. So, um, they've, they've struggled without him in offense, in the red zone. Um, he's been a touchdown machine for them in the red zone, so he'll be a big help. Uh, they look pretty healthy, actually. Uh, both the running backs good to go. Um, so yeah, I, I don't see how they, how they don't. Don't win this game. They've got their full compliment of, of weapons out there and their defense is strong enough even with our old friend Emmanuel Forbes back there. Um, yeah, maybe Panthers can hold'em off a bit at the start. The defense has looked fairly good recently, um, but I bet the Rams are to run away of this one and progress.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Uh, I just had a look at the odds. Just out of interest there, a 10 and a half point favorite,
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Wow. Okay.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:a lot. do you see any surprises in that one or anything you wanted to talk to about that game?
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:No, I agree with the bookmakers here. They lost this game in the same stadium, which was a costly loss because obviously they were vying for the number one seed. I don't see them making the same mistakes though, and I think Carolina probably regressed a little bit.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Hmm.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:Towards the end of the season as well. Um, the Rams are gonna be at full strength compared to that week. A little bit more with Adams coming back. I foresee yeah, maybe a bit of an early back and forth, but the Rams come out comfortable in the end and, you know, fair play of the pamphlets. They are taking the Texans annual Saturday lunchtime wildcard spot for, for the worst team in the
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Uh, yeah.
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Didn't, Chris, didn't. Chris Wessling used to make something of this back in the day, wasn't it? West of us And it was always the Texans, they'd get everyone around for this game.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:it was ama. Yeah. It was amazing because they literally had this slot every week for years even. They'd like win their division with rubbish quarterbacks and stuff, weren't they? Even last year, I think they played the charges in this, um, window and won the game. But yeah, it was, get Monday night. Now they're a good defense.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah, we'll come onto that one. Um, so yeah, I mean I've got it the same. I think the Rams, uh, fairly comfortably progress in that one on Saturday evening. Um, now to the big one for you, Lee, in terms of local interest on Saturday night, 1:00 AM UK time, the number seven C Green Bay Packers are the number two C Chicago Bears. I'll let you go first.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:Yep. A lot of my friends in the city are obviously bang up for this one their most. Hated rival coming into Soldier Field. A couple of miles to myself here. Um, I don't think it helps the bears that they won a real close game with them just a couple of weeks ago at Christmas. I always feel that just, that, that just Lightning doesn't often strike twice does it. As we saw with, uh, us when we play the Bears, um, and the Packers. into this game as slight favorites, which I found quite interesting. The bears coming off, two losses to finish the season right. They look pretty lackluster against the lions. So I actually have Green Bay in this game. I'm sorry for my, uh, colleagues and friends here, but I think the packers are gonna eek this one out. But I think this will be actually quite low scoring. It's gonna be cold, it's gonna be windy. I think there'll be, I think it'll be close, but I do think Green Bay maybe win it. By a field goal. And as I
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Oh,
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:yeah, it's just that to win a game in overtime when you are down big, I just feel like that doesn't, you know, there's something mentally that doesn't always carry over. I dunno if you feel the same, but.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:I do. I, this is, this is one of two games I've flip flopped on the most, and I've ended up with the same side as you. Green Bay win. Um. For similar reasons, and, and I just don't, there's something I don't quite trust about. Chicago's offense in particular, and Caleb Williams. Um, so I went to Green Bay on this one as well, and this is the one I'll stay up for as well, the late game that I'll stay up for this weekend on Saturday night late, which will be fun. but yeah, I can't, and also I do want the Packers to win as well. Uh, sorry to any of Lee's friends and colleagues as there as well. But, um, so I'm going with the head and heart in this one. James, your thoughts, are you with us chalk so far for us, or
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:No, um, I obviously want Green Bay. To win. I think I've made it clear how I feel about the pairs over the past nine months or so. Um, I was fairly torn on it, but also playing around my bracket. I have a feeling there on a collision course of a certain team, uh, the next round. Um, yeah, I think it's gonna be very close game. I, uh, I just think there's a, there's a touch of magic about that team, like something similar to what we had last year where I think they're kind of riding that home game. Um. I think Caleb would do enough. I think, uh, I think he'll have a better game than Jordan Love, and I think they're gonna win by a field goal. Exercise some demons from some previous, um, playoff field goal, uh, Mrs. Uh, in their past. So
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Nice.
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:the bears winning this one. I just think they've got a bit of, bit of that magic dust about them, uh, this year.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Nice.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:we, before we move on, can I ask you guys a
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Mm-hmm.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:What would you do in my situation? Now, obviously I'm not gonna be rooting big time for the Bears, but this is what, probably since the Cubs World Series in 2016, this is probably one of the.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Hmm.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:Biggest nights in recent Chicago history for sports in terms of a pretty, um, starved franchise. Do you go out in the bars and soak up the atmosphere or will that just annoy you so
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:No, you, you gotta go out, get, get into it.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:I get I I'll get outta the city and get outta town. You've gotta go out. Yeah. You've gotta go out a hundred percent. I mean, I, I don't, I don't dislike them as much as James, for example, and I think it'll be a good atmosphere and Get your skins how, and go out and enjoy it.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:Okay, we'll see.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Uh, we both, we all have that game close. I
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Have you got a.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:well.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:Yeah. There you go.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Cutler makes me drink t-shirt. okay, cool. So that is Saturday. Uh, let's move on to Sunday. Uh, 1:00 PM Eastern. So six o'clock usual slot On Sunday, we have the bills at the Jags. The Jags hosting a playoff game. Who'd have fought it? Uh, maybe this lady would've fought it.
I was in Miami when my new beach house, well, it was a couple minutes from the beach. It's been 20 years since then. We haven't been too strong in the last few years. Oh, we've been strong. We're just playing by the rules. You can't have a newcomer come in and steal a show.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:One of my favorite clips, sorry, I had to put it in, uh, Bill's. It jags. I'll start. Um, I also flip flopped on this one a bit. This is a tight game. Bies have it as a one and a half point favorite for Buffalo. I ended up going on Buffalo. I I do, I kind of want the Jags to win. Um, also for our friend Connor Lifelong UK Jags fan. Um, that would be great. I don't think it'll happen. I think Bills will have enough for the, for the Jags this time. Um, I'd be interested to know if it's like a takeover in terms of Bills fans in Florida. I don't know. Maybe, um, James, over to you for that one. The free seed Jags, eh, who'd afford
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah, I have thoroughly enjoyed watching, uh, the Jaguars, um, towards the back end of the season. I've never. Been a fan of Trevor Lawrence. I haven't really understood what it is that he's good at. Um, but they've unlocked him this year and he is been on fire. Um, this is without, um, Travis Hunter, by the way. Remember him, um, he got injured. Brian Thomas hasn't really done a lot, so he's doing a lot with not that much. I got other players stepping up the run games. Been really good with, uh, Travis, Ian. Um, so yeah, having said that, I've got the bills to win. Um, the bills haven't been. Amazing this year, but I still think there's something about them where they can go deep, uh, into the playoffs. Um, so I do have them winning. I think it's gonna be a really good game. Um, but I've really enjoyed the Jags. Um, I would've liked to have given'em the win here, but I am sticking with the bills on this.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Nice. I'll just say as well that the Jags would be my, I've picked the bills with the Jags are my rooting interest. I would like the Jags to do really well and go far. Uh, Lee your thoughts on this one?
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:Hardest one of the weekend to pick for me. In fact, I'm gonna stick my neck out and say the winner of this game is the a FC participant in the Super Bowl. Uh, really looking forward to this one. I will be out for this one. Uh, a couple of friends of mine have a table booked, um, in Wrigleyville for this. They're Patriots fans. They're just gonna be getting warmed up for the later game. But yeah, looking forward to this. Um. I picked the bills. I just think playoff experience just about gets them through the afternoon, but it's gonna be a really exciting game. Probably the one I'm looking forward to most is a neutral this weekend.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Oh, nice. I'm glad you get to go out as well and enjoy it, uh, lunchtime for you on the Sunday. That's a nice one. Um, yeah, I mean, being, being in Florida is obviously so different to it being in, in Buffalo. Um.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:watched, sorry, just to say, I watched that Eagles Bills game from my, um, Heathrow hotel the other week after a night out with, with James here. I mean, that was really bad conditions, but that Bill's defense does have something about it as well.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Hmm.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:I thought they were pretty impressive at times against the Eagles, um, albeit against the struggling offense. But we'll see how this one, uh, shakes out. I'm really looking forward to this game.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah, nice. Good way to kick off Sunday, uh, leading into a game that I'm not as much looking forward to watching personally, which is the nine 30 game and it's the 49 ERs, the succeed at the number three Philadelphia Eagles. Um. James, let's go to you first on this one. I will just briefly mention that the Eagles are a four and a half point favor at home.
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah. Um, yeah, I'll be definitely watching this ideal time for us in the uk. Um, these motherfuckers, um, I, I, I've got the Eagles winning.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Okay, head over heart for James on this
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:I, I. I really like the Niners and I would love them to go all the way. I like a lot of their players. I like the coach. Um, I think they're gonna massively regret, regret last week's defeat. Um, the buy and a home run, including the Super Bowl. Obviously been played at Levi's Stadium and I think it's gonna cost them. I think you're obviously the time of the day as well. What four 30 local time they're gonna be juiced up. Um, I think. They're gonna get a few things bounced their way like it normally does. And that would have them not to skip ahead, but that has them playing the bears. So that was also in my thinking. I just have them, I just got feeling they're gonna be playing each other in the next round. So that played a part in it.'cause I wasn't, you know, it's a tough game to call, but
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah,
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:I would love to be wrong. Um, but I just think they'll find a way.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Lee, your prediction.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:Yeah, I feel like the Niners are athas honest. I watched that Seattle game last week and they were struggling. Is Trent out? I think his not
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:It's doubtful.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:So yeah, that's a, that's huge isn't it, against their, um, D line. Say what you want about the Eagles. They seem to manage their. injuries pretty well, don't they? They were very healthy on their Super Bowl runs previously. They're pretty much at full strength across the board, so that was smart last week. What, what you done? Who knows? But yeah, I, it feels like the nine ERs are kind of, everyone's on the Eagles, right? And it feels like the nine ERs are kind of being faded outta this a little bit. So.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Mm-hmm.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:We'll see the odds are getting longer. Uh, Phillies defense is obviously elite and it scares me what I saw from the San Francisco side against an elite defense last week in Seattle. So I'll be rooting big time for the Niners. I actually feel like they're probably one of the most unlucky teams in the post season, um, with what they've done the regular season. I think what they've done this year has been absolutely incredible. And is a
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Hmm.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:to that organization and to Kyle, to be honest, I, I love watching him scheme up offense with having so many players unavailable, uh, saw them, you know, beat some really good teams this year, and to get to 12 wins or whatnot was just un unreal. But think this is a bad matchup for them.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:I can't have it that we all pick the Eagles to win. So I am picking the Niners to win and it isn't a great matchup, but I, I think there's some things that could go their way. I think that they're the best special teams unit in football, and I think that could have an impact on Sunday in a close, potentially close, or. Difficult playoff game. and I do think they have an X factor still in McCaffery. So I, I think I'm going with the Niners to win this game. and that is, that is mostly heart overhead, but there's some head in it. And I, and I think that a, a surprise as a road team, I wanted to pick a, a decent surprise as a road team in the Wild Card weekend. And, and, and Niners will be it for me.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:The conversation with my Boston mates in the week was, what game should we book a table for? And I said, let's, let's do the Jags bills.'cause I think that I'd rather be watching the nine as Eagles after a few drinks at home.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah. Yeah. Fair enough. Good shout. Okay. Uh, onto Sunday Night Football, which is the seven seed chargers at this two seed Patriots. and Lee, as you have a couple of Patriots fans that you'll be with earlier in the day. Why don't you go first on the Chargers Pats.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:I really like the charges and what they've managed to do this season considering their injury ways. They're kind of the a FC version of the Niners really, aren't they? How much they've been beat up, especially on their offensive line. We were one of the few teams that actually did manage to take it by. Of that. Um, but I would say that the pats are pretty strong favorites for a reason in this one. Um, could be a fun watch though. You can never, you can never, um, count the charges out, can you, with Justin Herbert and stuff. So I'm, I'm looking forward to the game, but I think the Pats will probably win this by a touchdown.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Okay. And they are favored, um, but only by three and a half. Interestingly, oh, I actually have the charges in this one. Uh, because I think it, that it match the matchup is not too bad for them. Uh, in particular, new England's front isn't their strength defensively necessarily. And if Justin Herbert can stay upright. Um, or at least run around enough without getting hit much, then I think he can make things happen. So, I'm, I'm getting charges on this one. It's another one that I wanna root for a, a friend's team in Glen's team, but I also think that they can pull this one off. Um, so that's my pick for them to advance on the road. James, your thoughts?
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah, I mean, this has upset potential written all over it. Um, but I'm still, I'm still sticking with Patriots. Having said that. Um, but I wouldn't be surprised if they did lose. Um, I think the Patriots will have enough and I just think the Chargers will charge her. Um, I think the Patriots are nice front and I think, I think they're on collision course with a certain team in the Air C Championships looking at the bracket. That played a little part in my decision as well.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Okay. You're, you're all about the narrative story of your, your bracket. I see as I've gone for something particularly bold, which you'll see in the next game. Um, Lee, any final thoughts on the charges? One, or do you wanna go to Monday Night Football, Houston at Pittsburgh?
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:Actually one final four, um, going back to the Monday night game. With the Chargers versus the Eagles over the holiday season. It did make me realize that in a close game, a kicker can be all the difference. So you put that very much in the Chargers favor with a dicker, the kicker that is just phenomenal. So know, if there's a 60 yarder to win it, you wouldn't count him out with you in that situation. So in a tight playoff game, I guess that is, that is something to keep an eye on, maybe.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah, that's fair. Actually, one last thing. That's gonna be a hell of a crowd in New England. That'll be really good, right? It's been a little while and they're juiced up again, so that'll be an interesting atmosphere. I'll be looking forward to that one. Another interesting atmosphere will be Monday Night Football, where the Steelers host the Texans. Who would've thought. We have Mike Tomlin, Aaron Rogers Steelers team hosting a playoff game this season, or some people predicted it. Um, but it was only right at the death that they managed it after a field goal, miss by the Ravens at the end of regulation, uh, last week. So they host the playoff game off the back of that and they play a Texas team with one of the best defenses in football. I'll go first. Um, I'll challenge either of you to, to spot. My bold take of what I've done of all these games, but I'm going Houston to win, which will be, uh, another, um, it won't be an upset'cause Houston are favorites by three. uh, can you see what I've done across these games? Either of you? I.
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:No
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Particularly rogue. I've gone for six road wins,
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:fuck sake.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:my
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:which I did not realize until I picked each game individually, right? So, um, or, you know, so Rams to Win on the road. Nine is at the Eagles. Uh, Packers. At the Bears Charger at New England, Buffalo at Jacksonville and Houston to finish it off at Pittsburgh and my sixth Road playoff
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:S someone, someone in our group, a strange bloke, uh, did point out that the, uh, Josh Allen own four on the road, but in the playoffs. But I suspect as someone point out, that's probably all the chiefs.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah, probably to be fair. but yeah, so I mean, I dunno how often that's happened or if ever that's happened. Um, probably not.'cause it's only had six wild card games. Uh, rare ftv recently. Right. But there you go. Six row teams for me, Houston, to do it over Pittsburgh. Just off the strength of their defense, I think, to be honest. Which is one of the best, if not the best, in the NFL. Lee, your thoughts on this one?
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:Yeah, I feel like the Steelers are gonna do what they regularly do, which is make the playoffs under tumbling and then not advanced. So I think they might have used all their luck last week. Incredible. Fourth quarter watch live. Obviously that was well past your guys' bedtime, but I think my hot take back when we were doing, uh, hot takes in the off season was that Aaron Rogers might have a sneaky good season for Pittsburgh. Didn't look like there'd be a playoff team for a while, but here they are again. I've got the Texans with their defense coming out relatively comfortably on top. Um, what was the line in that one? Do you know?
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Houston are a three point favorite on the road.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:Okay.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:It's the, it's the lowest total of the week. Under 40. It's fa nine and a half, so they're not, they're expecting a low scoring defensive battle for sure.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:I would say with all these games, hopefully I don't jinx it here, but if you, if you can remember wildcard last year, there was loads of blowouts, and in fact, it wasn't till. and Washington, that anyone that enjoyed the weekend, it was like really bad football saying on paper, these look some really, really good matchups.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah. Nice work. Okay. Um, the way we'll do this now is we'll go through each person's divisional round games
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Hey,
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:different.
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:you don't hear me?
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:you, did you not
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Don't want my thoughts.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Sorry. Go on.
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Now call me crazy.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Pittsburgh is it?
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:I'm going with the voice of the voiceless. Aaron Rogers.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Oh God.
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Huge win. Huge one. Final playoff win. Uh, everyone points to a Texans win here, but. I like the Steelers at home, uh, atmosphere. I just think they'll might find a way to get it done if they can make CJ Stroud, uh, uncomfortable. But it's a huge challenge and I think, uh, be low, low scoring. But I'm, I'm going, I'm going with a, a narrative again here. I, this is more of a gut feeling, um, and that is my clear upset of the week.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:A lot of vibes on your bracket, which are really very much enjoying and, and some good variety with you. Picking the, Steelers there, me picking the Niners and a bit of differential across some of these, which is nice. It will mean that the rest of our brackets will be very different as well, which is good. Um, so sorry James, I almost missed you out on the last game of Wild Cud weekend, but I'll go to you first then. So give me your two matchups in the divisional round of the A FC. Who are they and who is advancing in both the games?
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Sure. So I've got, let's carry on with the Steelers. We've then got Steelers v Patriots. Uh, I think that's where that run will end, and I think Patriots will win that convincingly, um, progress to the a FFC championship.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yep.
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Um, then we've got Bill's, Broncos, um, I've got bills winning that. Um, I think Broncos are probably frauds. Um, and I wanna see Bill's, Patriots in the FC title game. I think that'd be a really good game. So that's where I'm going there.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Nice. Okay, so you've got the, the higher seeds progress, uh, sorry. You've got the higher seed in the Pats progressing in a home game, and then you've got the bills who would be winning on the road in Denver to go to the a FC championship
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah, baby.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:side of the A FC divisional round.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:So I have the Patriots being the Texans. In the divisional round, and I have the bills going on the road to the Broncos as well to set up the same a FC championship matchup.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Okay. Very nice. Uh, I'm departing from my road victories all the way so far to change that up. So I have,'cause the way it has fell for me, I have the charges going to mile high it's called now. It's play Denver. And actually have Denver, who I do think might be a bit fraudulent because they have the buy and then they'll face the charges at home. I think they'll win the game. So I've got Denver winning that game and I've got Buffalo winning on the road against Houston. So that defense just about not getting it done for the Texans. Which gives me the bills at the Broncos in the a FC championship game. Um, let's go across to the NFC first before we go back to the championship games. Bill, who have you got on the NFC on that side?
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yep. So I mentioned this earlier. I've got, um, the Eagles at the Bears and I've got the Bears winning that one. Uh.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:This really is vibes
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:It is, it is. I just think, yeah, I'm, I'm convinced.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:be, uh, they'd be at home, wouldn't they?
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah. Bears be at home.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:so,
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah. Uh, yeah, that plays a massive part in that. Um, then I've got, I've got the Rams knocking off, uh, the Seahawks. Um, bit of payback for the other week. Um, so Seahawks one and done, and I've got Broncos one and done as well as, um, which sets up, uh, the Rams, uh, versus the bears in the NFC title game, uh, in Chicago.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Nice. Wow. Okay. That'd be good stuff for Lee as well. Um, okay. Lee, your NFC side.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:Maybe I should stay in if I've got all those games to, maybe I should wait, maybe I should wait for, uh, Philly to come to town to go out and share my sport. Um, okay, so. I have got, with the Packers, um, pick, I've got the Packers versus Seattle. I can't see them going into Seattle and winning. So I have the number one seed advancing to the NFC Championship and I have the rounds going into the link and winning. We had Stafford in the snow this time last year. We had two blocked kicks for the Rams, but third time lucky. At this time, they'll go into the Lincoln and win and knock the Eagles out, so it'll be the Rands Seahawks in a intriguing NFC Championship matchup.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Very nice. Um, I also have the Rams Seahawks in the NFC Championship'cause I have the Seahawks defeating the Packers and I have the Rams winning at home against the Niners. So none of us have the Eagles in the NFC championship game. Right. Yeah.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:God.
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:No, that No,
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:That's.
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:no. That'd be a step too far.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:That's
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Okay.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:so Rams Seahawks in the NFC Championship game for me, I'll quickly whiz through that. I think the Rams will win that game on the road in Seattle. A bit of a surprise. They'll probably be a decent underdog. But I have the Rams in the Super Bowl on the NFC side, uh, Lee, who do you have winning that same matchup.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:Yeah, man. I got the Rams.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Excellent.
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:house?
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:And James, who have you got in your one?
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah, I got the Rams beating the bears. I think they're gonna. Pick, pick up pace, free road games in a row and off to the Super Bowl.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:It's almost like we all like Sean McVay, three three of us picking the rams in the NFC to the Super Bowl. Um, I wonder what we'll have in the A FC. So I've got Buffalo at Denver in the a FC championship game and it's buffalo for me heading into the Super Bowl. Uh, Lee.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:I was hoping you were gonna say the Broncos and they kind of run it back like that 2015 Broncos defense, which were just unbelievable. Um, now I have, well I gave the spoiler out early, didn't I? I said the winner of the Jags Bills game will be the, uh, a FC representative. So I do have. Bills and Josh Allen to the Super Bowl in a season where there've been a lot of ups and downs,
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Hmm.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:But I think this might be one of those years where they have the ups and downs in the regular season, but then in the playoffs, it's finally their time to make the dance.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Okay, so the same matchup for me and Lee in the Super Bowl. James, who have you got me?
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah, I've got the bills going into New England and I'm sure everyone in Buffalo will relish the chance to be the Patriots in a c title game. Um, yeah, I think the bills feel a bit chiefy. Um. Where I think they're gonna re step up in the playoffs and finally move the chiefs out of the way and not in their way. Um, I think this is the year they get Super Bowl, so Buffalo versus the Rams as well in the Super Bowl.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Blind me. So quite a lot of variety, but actually ending up the same, uh, in the Super Bowl. Let's see if we can mix it up who wins it. James, you can go first. As you went last there,
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah,
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:winning it.
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:all in on the bills. I think Josh Allen gets it done. I think it just, yeah, as you say, I think it's just one of those years where they were kind of not too much pressure and, um, ups and downs throughout the season, but I think they return it on the playoffs and, and, uh. Get it done. So yeah, Buffalo beating the Rams Super Bowl champs.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:All right. Nice. Uh, and lead, do you have the same or you going all in on McVay?
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:More heartbreak, more tears. On the Canadian border wide, right. Ghosts and all sorts. I just, I feel like they're destined to never, to never win it. I feel bad saying it, but yeah, I think the Rams, I think the Rams are gonna show they're the real deal. I, I feel like they've been the best team all season and then just fallen off of it late. But I do think they're gonna have enough. I think the Rams are gonna win it again, another ring for Stafford and McVay in a really, really good Super Bowl.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Okay, nice. Well, I've actually gone against Yulee and with James, I've got the bills winning it. finally getting over the hump there and Josh Allen getting his ring and the party in Buffalo. That'd be an interesting Super Bowl actually, if, uh, it is Bill's rams in, Francisco in terms of the, the crowd and stuff. Um.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:Good point.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:yeah, I've got, I've got, I've got Buffalo, so I'm going with Buffalo to win it over the Rams. That was good fun. I, I've got a screenshot of mine. It, I did flip flop on a number of them early, like the Jags and the the Eagles one. But I just had to go Niners and I had to go Buffalo all the way. I just needed them to get to the Super Bowl to be able to pick them, to be honest. Um, but let's see. We'll, we'll probably have none of the conference championship game teams. Right. Like, who knows? We'll see. We might be more successful. I like yours, James in particular with the Bears Run. That's quite fun.
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah. Um, Austin don't want that to happen. Are we talking about who we're rooting for and against as well? Is that what we're doing?
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah. Kind of. Some of it is, is relatively obvious
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Hmm.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:terms of the Eagles. Right. Um, and, and we talked a bit about the Rams and liking them being there or getting going
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:I can give you two. Outside of the Rams?
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Go
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:No, the Eagles and the Bears who I do not want to, to go anywhere near. Are the, uh, Patriots and the Broncos. Are we actively rooting against them?
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Why the Patriots? Just because they're back
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah. Fuck off. It's not been long enough. And, um, I've, I just, I never, I don't like Sean Payton. Um, I never liked the Broncos, so
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah.
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:I'm, I'm sticking with that.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:I, I'm similar on the Broncos in that I, I feel like I've been watching Bo Nicks for like
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:'cause I
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:him like four years, five years in college and I never thought it was any good. So it'd be a bit annoying if they get too far. So I'm, I'm against the Broncos as well. Um, and the equals Lee, you?
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:I love a little bit of random hate for like an a FC team for no particular
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:quite funny. Um, yeah, Broncos is actually a very good NFL market. They've got a good fan base, so they're not gonna get overtaken at home, but I just, yeah, I'm, I'm with you. I, I just, their offense isn't good enough to win a Super Bowl for me. So, um, what was the question? Sorry? Is there a fraud or someone
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Oh no
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:hate outside the Eagles.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:it's fraud routing interest that you have that you people might not expect, like someone you really wanna do well, or, uh, another team that you just Yeah, to test.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:Okay. So I mean, the Eagles goes without saying that I'll be rooting against them throughout. Um,
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:I said anyway.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:yeah, I've always,
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Just had to get it on the record in case.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:Just, just to put it out there just in case there's any, um, yeah. Any questions on that? So, I. Yeah, the Patriots are kind of with James on that one. It's just, it's just been too soon. I mean, that much success for like basically two decades, I feel like it's unfair for them just to suddenly be back in that situation. So I'm not really gonna be wanting them to, to advance, even though I picked them, you know, to get through to, to the, uh, a FC championship game. Um, in terms of the other NFC teams, to be honest. I wouldn't wanna see the Bears do it just because, you know, and all that stuff and living here would be kind of annoying. I wouldn't mind seeing them win this weekend, but I don't wanna see'em get too far. Seattle, I've got nothing really against, they haven't been that relevant for a while while on organization, good fan base getaway day,
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Hmm.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:don't really mind them doing quite well. But yeah, I've always liked McVay since he was, uh, the coordinator in DC
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah, everyone else is fine there really on the NFC, isn't there?
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:Yeah,
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:I'm kind of,
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:ni It's quite nice not to have Kansas City there isn't it?
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:yeah.
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:is still there, but it is nice not to have them involved'cause the A FC has just been a predictable a FC championship matchup for so long, so.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:I will say, actually I don't sod the packers. Actually I'm not, I'm not asked about the Packers. Um, I, the UK fan base is really annoying and also that, that Pratt Zaban who went over to work there and just disowned Commanders, Washington Redskins and is now like a Packers fan. He pisses me off in the media. So I wanna go against the Packers as well, just to spice it off a
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:I love that. Nice and specific actually.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:Is there any, is there any really annoying UK fan base? That's pretty good question. I'd like to
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:I think out in person. The packers tend to annoy me when I've seen people around. And, and, and also there's certain, there's a certain me so so-called media member who seems to win loads of competitions over here. Who, she does, she, she, she, she does particularly well out of, uh, gambling sponsorships and things and pisses me off. So, uh, she doesn't listen. Uh, but she does follow me on Instagram. Actually, maybe I'll just share this again, and then she'll
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:No, I think, I think, didn't she like get canceled after winning that? Because I've not seen her anywhere since then.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:I dunno, maybe. Yeah, I dunno.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:this the like want to be Kay Adams type
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah,
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Um, uh, other annoying fa no, not I'm Dallas, I guess at at least like, yeah, I haven't been invited back onto that round table anyway.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:I've got, I've got a say in terms of, um, this weekend as well. There's some really good, like home field atmospheres isn't there as well. So we've got, got Philly, Chicago, new England. I mean, that's gonna be a lot of fun to see like, just'cause those stadiums should on paper have a good,
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:a really good like atmosphere and like the Niners really travel and
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Yeah.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:Obviously owe the Eagles ones. That could be, that could be quite interesting
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Pit Pittsburgh as well, you'd imagine will be, will be good. And like just 99% Steelers probably, or whatever. Hard to get ticket for Houston fans. Um, and then in, yeah, in, in the next round, like Denver, having Denver and Seattle, having home games guaranteed in the next round will also be great. So, a good seed on telly. Um, before we finish, James, what's your, what's your plan for watching these? How many are you gonna get to watch and is it all at home?
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:You haven't asked me who I'm rooting for, Josh.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Oh, sorry mate, go on. I could just cutting you out
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:The Pittsburgh Steelers
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Uh,
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Aaron Rogers.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:great. Yeah. Fair enough. Uh, it's a good narrative, isn't it?
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Um, what am I doing this weekend? Oh, I'll, I'll be at home. Um, I will try and stay up for that Bears Packers one because I'm actually pretty excited about that one and I'll probably won't be able to stay up, uh, Sunday. So yeah, I think the Packers Bears Game would be kind of my main one staying up for, and obviously watched one before that. Um, and then Sunday, the sort of my main one to be sat at home watching Niners Eagles.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Nice. I'll be the same. I'll be, I'll be at home. Um, had a lot going on and pretty busy
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:What time is Bill's Jag? Sorry.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:uh, that is the early game on
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Oh, I'll, I'll be all over that as well. Yeah. Yeah.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:that's a good one to watch. 6:00 PM Sunday.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:Expect. Expect plenty of banter during that game because I'll be out and
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Okay. Nice.
I'll tell you what I do when I see, I wanna see plenty of banter. I see plenty of fun and plenty of talk. I gotta play cards with my kids. There's plenty of banter.
josh_1_01-09-2026_200853:Oh good. Okay, cool. Alright, thanks guys. Um, that was really good fun. We will definitely be active throughout the playoffs, especially after such a good chat on the wild card games. Um, some sort of recap and preview of divisional round next week on the cards and potentially a guest or two or who knows if some of our friends and listeners teams progress we'll see. but yes, until then, guess hail.
james---he-_1_01-09-2026_200853:Hail.
ledders_1_01-09-2026_140853:Ha.