PODCAST · society
Crunching Tackles
by Crunching Tackles
Hello and welcome to Crunching Tackles, a podcast where John Nekrasov and Chad Wylie discuss the biggest cultural issues that affect the sports world. Tune in to hear our takes on the controversial topics that touch the games we watch every week. If you enjoy our content, like, follow, subscribe (all the fun stuff), and follow us on Twitter @john_nekrasov and @chadewylie!
Episodes
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Episode 209: Who Will Protect College Sports?
On the show, Chad and John break down the historic Protect College Sports Act that passed the Senate and will be voted on in the House after the midterms. What problems is this bill attempting to address? Will it succeed? And is it the government's job to intervene on this matter? We debate all…
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Episode 208: The Sportswashing Spectacular!
On the show, Chad and John discuss a variety of sportwashing stories, including Rwanda securing Formula 1 races in the 2030s, LIV Golf's continued fight for survival, and an update on Manchester City. 00:10 Introduction 02:47 Formula 1 Announces Its Return to Africa 13:47 Arizona State Hockey...
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Episode 207: What's Next for Manchester City?
On the show, Chad and John dive deep into the ruling by the Premier League finding Manchester City guilty of 115 financial breaches. This unprecedented ruling puts Manchester City in a perilous position going forward, and causes some major reconsideration of their past success. We discuss the...
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Episode 206: Israel on the Global Sports Stage
On the show, Chad and John discuss the international incident between Israel and Ireland … on the football pitch. Is it hypocritical for sporting bodies to ban certain teams for international conflict, but not others? Also, should Alex Ovechkin get more criticism for supporting Putin? And, did...
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Episode 205: Pablo Torre's Victory Lap
On today's show, Chad and John dive deep into the NBA's executive summary recapping their investigation into the Los Angeles Clippers. Just how blatant was Steve Ballmer's corruption? Are the punishments fair? And what's next for Pablo Torre and the future of independent journalism?
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Episode 204: Alexander Zverev Wins Again
Chad and John break down the U.S. Open on both the men's and women's sides. First, they discuss a couple quick stories from the world of Formula One and College Football. They also react to Week 1 of the NFL, and give their take on the VAR controversy at the Manchester Derby. 00:10 Introduction…
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Episode 203: How Prevalent is CTE in Football?
On today's show, Chad and John react to a new scientific report that shows that at least 25% of former NFL players develop CTE—and it could be a lot more. What blame do fans have for watching a violent game? Should anything change? We address all the moral issues honestly and head-on.
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EMERGENCY PODCAST: NBA Punishes Clippers
On this emergency podcast, Chad breaks down the shocking findings of the NBA's investigation into the Los Angeles Clippers, Steve Ballmer, and Kawhi Leonard. What did they find? Are the punishments fair? And what happens next?
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Episode 202: LSU and College Football Clash Over Eligibility
On today's show, Chad and John preview the U.S. Open while also wondering what's next for Novak Djokovic after he lost in the first round. Next, they talk about the players, teams, and coaches they are most interested in for the upcoming NFL season, before getting to the ongoing standoff between...
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Episode 201: Transgender Issues at the Supreme Court
On today's show, Chad and John discuss the landmark Supreme Court decision West Virginia v. B.P.J. What does the decision mean, what does it change, and what happens next for this issue? We also discuss the ongoing drama involving transgender eligibility and the WNBA. 00:10 Transgender Issues in...
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Episode 200: 2026-27 Premier League Preview
On this episode, Chad and John preview the fast-approaching Premier League season. They also briefly check in on the status of the NBA's investigation into Steve Ballmer and the Clippers and discuss Spider-Man: Brand New Day 00:10 Introduction 02:26 Premier League Season Preview 06:58 Chelsea's...
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Episode 199: FIFA's Shocking Selloff
On this episode, the guys break down in detail the shocking proposal by FIFA to sell a stake in the world's game to private equity. We explore the details of the scheme, the riotous response by the world's federations, and the future of the current FIFA president. 00:10 FIFA Private Investment...
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Episode 198: What We've Missed Since the World Cup
On this episode, Chad and John roundup some of the most important sports stories they missed during the World Cup, and give some final thoughts about the biggest World Cup in history! 00:10 Introduction 05:34 LeBron James Signing with the 76ers 12:42 Wimbledon Recap and the State of Men's Tennis...
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Episode 197: World Cup Final Recap
On today's show, Chad and John recap Spain's victory over Argentina to win the World Cup. Spain dominated the entire tournament, while Argentina shamed themselves with their behavior during and after the final. After that, we break down Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey, discussing the visual...
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Final World Cup Final Thoughts
Mere days before the World Cup Final, Chad and John gather (in person) to preview Sunday's big match between Spain and Argentina.
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Episode 196: World Cup Final Preview
On this episode, Chad and John recap the World Cup quarterfinals, including the blockbuster England vs. Norway match, and Argentina's controversial win over Switzerland. Next, the guys preview the semifinals and final of the tournament. 00:00 Introduction 04:23 Was England vs. Norway the best…
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Episode 195: America Crashes Out of the World Cup
On this episode, Chad and John analyze the USMNT's disappointing loss to Belgium in the Round of 16 of the World Cup. What went wrong? What can we do to fix it? Also, Kylian Mbappe is subjected to a shocking racist attack, Cape Verde win the hearts of the world, and we say a not-so-tearful…
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Episode 194: America Has World Cup Fever!
In this episode, Chad and John continue covering the biggest games and most surprising upsets of the World Cup. We preview a monumental game for the USMNT against Bosnia and Herzegovina, and discuss some controversies off the pitch, including inconsistent refereeing, Seattle's Pride Night, and a...
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Episode 193: World Cup Week 1 Recap
Join us as we dive into the latest World Cup action, cultural moments, and social issues surrounding the tournament. From thrilling matches to fan interactions and political debates, this episode covers it all. Here is the CNN story Chad mentioned with some Iranian-American perspectives on the...
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Episode 192: Final World Cup Thoughts and USMNT Preview
On this episode, Chad and John preview the US Men's National Team for the World Cup, and share their final thoughts before the games begin. They also preview the Stanley Cup and NBA Finals, recap the Champions League final, and dive into the chaos at the French Open this year. 00:00 Stanley Cup...
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Episode 191: 2026 World Cup Preview Show
On today's show, Chad and John preview the 2026 World Cup. First, John celebrates a monumental Premier League Championship for Arsenal, and then the guys look ahead to the World Cup, ranking teams based on some on-the-field and off-the-field metrics. Join our World Cup Predictions group on…
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Episode 190: The Sports Gambling Debate
In this episode, Chad and John analyze a recent debate between Chris Christie and David French on sports gambling regulation, explore the implications of legal and illegal sports betting, and discuss the broader societal impacts of gambling. They also touch on the latest sports news, with good…
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Episode 189: Has Sportswashing Failed?
With the rumored collapse of LIV Golf, we reexamine whether the Saudi sportswashing program is ending. We also talk about the increased prices of transportation for the FIFA World Cup, Rory McIlroy winning another Masters, and … Coachella? All that and more on a new episode of Crunching Tackles....
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Episode 188: A Sports Gambling Deep-Dive
On today's show, Chad and John dive deep into McKay Coppins' viral story about his experience as a sports better. Before that, we talk about March Madness, the USMNT, and talk briefly about Tiger Woods latest horrific car accident. Chapters 00:00 March Madness Reflections 03:14 Is Duke...
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Episode 187: March Madness 2026 and How to Make a Bracket
Join us as we delve into the latest sports headlines, including March Madness strategies, controversial soccer results, and the evolving world of Formula One. We also explore global issues like Iran's political climate and the ethics of sports sponsorships, providing insights and lively debates....
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Episode 186: Sports and the War in Iran
In a gripping discussion, Chad and John delve into the intricate web of war, politics, and sports in Iran, shedding light on how recent conflicts have reshaped the landscape for athletes and sporting events. This conversation uncovers the powerful role of sports as a stage for protest, the...
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Episode 185: Winter Olympics 2026
In this episode, Chad Wylie and John Nekrasov discuss the highlights and controversies of the Winter Olympics. They delve into the excitement of competition, the curling cheating scandal, and the absurdity of doping in ski jumping. In this conversation, John Nekrasov and Chad Wylie discuss the...
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Episode 184: Super Bowl 60 Recap
In this episode of Crunching Tackles, hosts Chad Wylie and John Nekrasov dissect Super Bowl 60, focusing on the Seahawks' impressive performance and Drake Maye's struggles as a young quarterback. They discuss the halftime show, the cultural significance of the event, and the disappointing quality...
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Episode 183: Is Sportswashing Beginning to Fail?
In this episode of Crunching Tackles, hosts Chad Wylie and John Nekrasov dive into a variety of pressing sports issues, including the upcoming Super Bowl, Carlos Alcaraz’s latest history-making performance, and the shocking news surrounding Bill Belichick's Hall of Fame denial. They also discuss...
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Episode 182: The NFL Coaching Carousel Hits Full Speed
On today's show, Chad Wylie and John Nekrasov discuss the dramatic and controversial final in the African Cup of Nations. They also discuss the latest gambling investigation, this one involving almost 40 college basketball players. The big story today is all about head coaching changes in the…
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Episode 181: Top 5 Movies of 2025
Chad and John look back on the year in film, giving their top 5 movies of 2025, along with some coverage of Stranger Things and the upcoming NFL Playoffs. 0:30 - Chad reflects on the Steelers amazing regular season finale and we look ahead to the NFL Playoffs 16:20 - A brief aside on Manchester...
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Episode 180: Top 5 Athletes of the Century
Chad and John reflect on the first quarter of the 21st century, as they rank five athletes who have had the biggest cultural impact of the past 25 years. 2:40 - Chad recounts his freezing and fun time at the NCAA Men's Soccer Championship game 7:25 - Philip Rivers comeback and a NFL update 19:30…
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Episode 179: Top 5 for 2025
Chad and John look back on 2025 and identify our top 5 sports stories of the year. They also unveil their theme for the year, award the sports "Man of the Year" and commemorate the first ever "Benedict Arnold" designation on the podcast! As always, make sure to share this episode if you enjoyed…
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Episode 178: Our 2025 World Cup Temperature Check
We are now just months away from the 2026 World Cup, and there is a lot to catch up on. From teams who have qualified, to the status of the USMNT, to the never-ending political circus circling this event, John and Chad are here to make sense of it all. As always, make sure to share this episode…
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Episode 177: Trouble at ESPN
ESPN has not just been reporting the news lately, they have been the news—and not in good ways. On today's show, Chad and John discuss: 3:00 - We briefly recap a wildly entertaining World Series and that instantly classic Game 7. 7:30 - The betting scandal we covered last episode has now come to...
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Episode 176: The Worst Gambling Scandal Yet
NBA Hall of Famer and current head coach Chauncey Billups, Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier, and LeBron James insider Damon Jones were all arrested by the FBI on serious gambling charges, involving improper betting, high-stakes poker, and the Italian mafia. Do they matter culturally? On today's…
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EMERGENCY PODCAST: Apple Goes All-in on Formula 1
In this special, emergency episode of Crunching Tackles, Chad reacts to the breaking news about Formula One's broadcast rights going to Apple TV. What does this shift mean for the sport, and the larger streaming sports landscape? We will be back with a regularly scheduled podcast later. John is...
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Episode 175: Does Anyone Really Care Who the MVP Is?
This week, Ousmane Dembélé won the Ballon D'or—the award for the best men's soccer player. This choice was surprising, and underwhelming, and led us to a conversation about the importance of individual awards. Are they measured correctly? Do they matter culturally? On today's show, Chad and John...
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Episode 174: Steve Ballmer's Alleged Aspirations
A bombshell investigation by Pablo Torre alleges that Los Angeles Clippers owner Steve Ballmer funneled money through a shadow company to Kawhi Leonard to compensate him above the salary cap. If true, this is one of the most shocking frauds in NBA history. On today's show, Chad and John discuss:...
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Episode 173: The NFL and ESPN are Dancing With Their Hands Tied
The NFL and ESPN have announced a merger that gives ESPN control of NFL Media and gives the NFL an ownership stake in ESPN. This arrangement comes with huge conflicts of interest and moral implications. On today's show, Chad and John discuss: 5:45 - Chad recaps his recent trip, including some...
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Episode 172: Another Shocking Scandal at the NFL
Pablo Torre has unearthed a shocking scandal taking place with the NFL and the NFL Player's Association in recent weeks. This scandal has caused major embarrassment for the league, and has led to the resignation of several prominent player's union executives. On today's show, Chad and John…
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Episode 171: F1 The Movie Races to Success
One of the biggest summer blockbusters is also a fascinating artifact of sports and culture. In other words, all our various passions and interests collide in this high octane episode! On today's show, Chad and John discuss: 3:40 - Wimbledon 2025 Recap 25:50 - Club World Cup Final and President...
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Episode 170: The Gentrification of Sports
A recent study examined the cost of being a sports fan to the American consumer, and the results are shocking! On today's show, Chad and John discuss: 4:20 - How the Club World Cup is going this summer. 13:20 - A strange confrontation between ICE and the Los Angeles Dodgers. 18:30 - The Senegal...
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Episode 169: The World is Coming to America
A fog of uncertainty surrounds America as we host two major international tournaments this summer. The Club World Cup and the Gold Cup are intense dress rehearsals for the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Olympics. The question is: are we ready? On today's show, Chad and John discuss: 5:30 - The 2025...
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Episode 168: Who is the New Bill Belichick?
For decades, Bill Belichick built his brand on stoicism, silence, and excellence. In recent years, his relationship with Jordan Hudson has seemingly changed his entire persona. On today's show, Chad and John discuss: 2:00 - The New York Knicks and their super fan Timothee Chalamet 7:00 - John...
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Episode 167: Pope Leo XIV and the Theology of Sports
The pope is American, he's a certified baseball fan, and the Catholic Church has a detailed and rich theology of sports that we want to talk about! On today's show, Chad and John discuss: 4:00 - NBA Draft Lottery and Playoff check-in. 11:15 - Barcelona and Inter Milan played one of the greatest...
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166: Shedeur Sanders' Slide
In one of the most anticipated and widely covered NFL Drafts, Shedeur Sanders slid all the way to the fifth round. This prompted a flurry of broadcast and social media reactions. On today's show, Chad and John discuss: 8:15 - Liverpool win the Premier League and is Mohamed Salah the best player…
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Episode 165: Rory Achieves Glory
In the most dramatic Masters in recent memory, Rory McIlroy exorcized his demons, and wrote his name in the history books. On today's show, Chad and John discuss: 0:30 - Arsenal's convincing win over Real Madrid in the Champions League Quarterfinals. Where does John's club sit now in the…
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Episode 164: March, but no Madness
The first two rounds of the 2025 NCAA tournament featured some amazing basketball, but few upsets and even less drama. What is the state of the tournament given the recent changes to the transfer portal and NIL? On today's show, Chad and John discuss: 4:00 - We briefly fill out the list of…
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Episode 163: President Stephen A. Smith?
Television and sports personality Stephen A. Smith has been venturing into a new media space: politics. Now, he's one of the most talked about potential candidates for the Democratic nominee for president. On today's show, Chad and John discuss: 2:30 - We recap the 2025 Oscars, talking about the...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Hello and welcome to Crunching Tackles, a podcast where John Nekrasov and Chad Wylie discuss the biggest cultural issues that affect the sports world. Tune in to hear our takes on the controversial topics that touch the games we watch every week. If you enjoy our content, like, follow, subscribe (all the fun stuff), and follow us on Twitter @john_nekrasov and @chadewylie!
HOSTED BY
Crunching Tackles
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Crunching Tackles have?
Crunching Tackles currently has 214 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Crunching Tackles about?
Hello and welcome to Crunching Tackles, a podcast where John Nekrasov and Chad Wylie discuss the biggest cultural issues that affect the sports world. Tune in to hear our takes on the controversial topics that touch the games we watch every week. If you enjoy our content, like, follow, subscribe...
How often does Crunching Tackles release new episodes?
Crunching Tackles publishes regularly with 214 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to Crunching Tackles?
You can listen to Crunching Tackles on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Crunching Tackles?
Crunching Tackles is created and hosted by Crunching Tackles.
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