Madden Curses, Senate Races & The NBA Finals

On this week’s episode of The Game Within, we open with the tragic passing of John Brenkus and what it’s reignited about men’s mental health in sports. Then we turn to the Royals’ top prospect Jac Caglianone and how versatility might be the only path to the majors in today’s MLB. We break down what an expanded March Madness could mean for TV money and mid-majors, and why Bruce Pearl might be the next coach to swap the sideline for the Senate floor. Plus: Saquon Barkley just had a monster season—so should Eagles fans be worried about the Madden Curse? In our deep dive, we unpack why a Pacers–Thunder NBA Finals might be a nightmare for ratings but a victory for the league’s future—and how the new CBA is finally giving small markets a real shot at a title.