Go Long Podcast

A few days ago, I received a text from Chad Brown. He read our column on the wide receiver matrix and had thoughts on the topic from his playing days. After going back ‘n forth for a while, we decided to hit record on a podcast. Love welcoming back one of the most underrated players of the late 1990s/early 2000s.Brown is always insightful and introspective.On this episode, we get into plenty:* Tom Brady’s mid-life crisis. This is getting weird and sad. * Wide Receiver drama. There were no such divas back on his Steelers teams, but how would Brown navigate this matrix as a GM today? * John Schneider’s mastery. He wrote the Seahawks GM a letter. * His love for snakes. Brown didn’t sprint the other direction when a python sank its teeth into his arm. Be sure to catch Shannon Sharpe’s legendary trash talk. He knew Brown loved reptiles and didn’t hold back one Seattle-Denver game. * Seahawks’ repeat efforts. What impressed Brown most about last year’s run?* State of the Steelers. What is Omar Khan’s long-term plan?* Why he loves the L.A. Rams’ title odds. He sees those multi-TE sets ruling again.Video and audio of this week’s chat is above. Also be sure to hit subscribe, comment rate and review over on our channels over at Apple, Spotify and YouTube. Brown, a three-time Pro Bowler, played 15 seasons in all with 1,091 career tackles, 79 sacks, 19 forced fumbles, 15 fumble recoveries and six interceptions. He was a key piece on the epic “Blitzburgh” defenses of the 90s, starred for the Seahawks and capped his career off with the 2007 Patriots team that nearly went undefeated. Today, he’s one of the sharpest analysts going. You can catch him on ESPN Radio and calling college/pro games on the Compass Media Network. His X handle is @chadbrown94. We’ve previously chatted with Brown for this story on the history/aura of the Pittsburgh Steelers Linebacker. And then again, for a (very) deep conversation on the state of football in 2023 — words and pod.Thanks, all!ICYMI:* Tampa Bay Buccaneers on the hunt for heart * Our 2026 Quarterback Draft* Dregs to Domination: The Aaron Brewer Blueprint* The Wide Receiver Matrix* Real Football: Brian Westbrook on defying the odds, McNabb-TO, Hurts-AJB & timeless Philadelphia Eagles memories 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

Hey, I see it’s quarterback ranking season. They’re populating the interwebs everywhere. A perfect time to reprise the Quarterback Draft on Real Football. Subscribers may recall co-host Jim Monos and myself bringing in our pal Matthew Fairburn of The Athletic to draft QBs a few years back. Let’s get the band back together.Full video and audio is available above for paid subscribers.There’s no perfect way to grade quarterback success, but we’ll use the QBR stat that takes multiple factors into account. Each of us select six quarterbacks via snake draft. At the end of the season, we’ll each take the five best scores of those six for a grand total. Winner gets a free dinner of their choosing from the other two. Fairburn might’ve taken the crown in 2023. But for what it’s worth, I’m already booking my reservation at West Rose in Ellicottville, NY. Monos of course scouted for the Philadelphia Eagles, New Orleans Saints and served as the director of personnel for the Buffalo Bills. Fairburn has covered both the NFL and NHL for The Athletic. Good chance you’ve read his excellent Sabres coverage this past season right through the Stanley Cup Playoffs. He’s still keeping a close eye on the NFL, too. Let us know who you think assembled the best crew in the comments.Prefer to listen on Apple or Overcast? Bang it here to sync your subscription. Instructions on syncing on Spotify are also here.On our free list? Upgrade to a paid membership today for the full episode.Our 2026 NFL Season Preview Features are underway. First up, a profile of Dolphins center Aaron Brewer. Much more on tap. We’d love to have you join our community today. 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

His NFL life can now be told in two acts.Eric Wood was the starting center the Buffalo Bills’ starting center for nine years. He helped end the 17-year playoff drought his final season.Eric Wood has also now covered the team as a radio color commentator/podcaster/analyst the same amount of time. He’s the host of Centered On Buffalo and calls games on the radio broadcast. This week’s Happy Hour podcast consists of a little bit of everything. Wood looks back to Drought memories and looks ahead to how these 2026 Bills get over the Super Bowl hump with new head coach Joe Brady. A ton of insight on all fronts.As noted, we’re bringing back virtual Happy Hours this 2026 NFL season to give you the opportunity to ask players (and media members) anything you’d like. Is there someone you want to hang out with this year? Let me know at [email protected] and audio of our conversation with Wood is above. New here? Upgrade to join all live Happy Hours.Topics this episode include… * Life with Rex Ryan. There was so much hope and hype. Why did things turn south?* Aaron Kromer. He wishes they had more time together. * Rex’s defense was all about chaos and confusion. The sort of stuff Bills DC Jim Leonhard desires a decade later. Thing is, players hated Rex’s scheme in 2015 anf 2016. We explore the key differences between then and now, and how the Bills get the 3-4 right this time around. * Alec Anderson. He’s the new guy starting full time on the line. Is he ready? * The NFL went heavy in 2025 — the Bills, like the LA Rams, enjoyed 3-TE sets — but what is the next counterpunch for the NFL’s best offenses? More spread? * WR screens drove locals batty. Wood offers thoughts on this play. Big picture, Wood points out something we did back when Brady was hired. The playcaller was often following orders in crafting conservative, keepaway gameplans vs. elite QBs. We’ll see what changes now.* Joe Brady’s “they have to play us” mentality. The new coach detailed in full to Go Long. * Was Wood shocked by Sean McDermott’s firing? * As a young player, Wood suffered a compound fracture of his tibia and fibula. The injury set a tone for his entire career. * What was Terrell Owens like as a teammate? They played together Wood’s rookie season.* Why you’ve always got to be careful who you pay — he witnessed the effect with Marcell Dareus. Motivation matters.* My “Real Football” co-host Jim Monos often points out that offensive line play is overrated. Let’s get Wood’s take. Thanks, all. Keep an eye out for our first season preview feature this coming Friday. In the meantime, here are a few recent links to pieces if you missed anything. Be sure to share Go Long with a friend if you enjoy. We’re fueled 100 percent by you.The Wide Receiver Matrix‘I’m back:’ Jamal Lewis gets to the other sideJuly Mailbag, Part I: DJ Moore Effect, KOC’s future, Lions CB plan, our draft hits/misses, journalismJuly Mailbag, Part II: Football’s future, Sam Darnold, Rex Ryan memories, criminal on-field acts, QB scheming, gamblingReal Football: Brian Westbrook on defying the odds, McNabb-TO, Hurts-AJB & timeless Philadelphia Eagles memoriesHappy Hour Replay: Isaiah McKenzie, uncensored‘I choose to be positive:’ Stedman Bailey on the night that could’ve ended his life, NFL what-ifs, finding joy, paying it forwardRelated to the pod… Joe Brady takes charge, Part I: ‘I’ll set my jaw’Joe Brady takes charge, Part II: ‘They’ve got to play us’Josh Allen, reborn‘My chip is deeper:’ Our 1 on 1 with Bills GM Brandon Beane‘He wants to win the whole damn thing:’ Inside the Buffalo Bills’ decision to hire Joe Brady as HC 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

History repeats itself. Issues between a quarterback and a wide receiver in Philadelphia are nothing new. Once upon a time, Terrell Owens was protesting in the form of driveway pushups. And the stuff Brian Westbrook was doing at running back? At his peak? Now, all teams seek this breed of playmaker.This hour and a half was a fun ride. On “Real Football” this week, we’re joined by an Eagles great. He wasn’t big. He wasn’t 40-yard-dash fast. None it mattered, as Westbrook served as the engine and spirit of an Eagles offense perpetually in contention. He finished his career with more than 10,000 total yards and 71 touchdowns and came so, so close to hoisting a trophy of his own. Come for the story of Westbrook’s rise — Villanova obscurity to his epic 2003 punt return vs. the Giants to changing the position. Stay for the stories of Donovan McNabb and T.O. refusing to speak to each other at lunch and the parallels Westbrook sees in Eagles drama today. He has pointed thoughts on Jalen Hurts and the current group into 2026. Westbrook also explains why McNabb is one of the most under-appreciated athletes of his era, what made Jeremiah Trotter and Derrick Burgess so damn mean and way back when he was breaking into the pros, my co-host Jim Monos participated in the running back’s Eagles workout as a young scout. Andy Reid had a vision.Westbrook brought that vision to life. Now, he’s got endless tales to share. Video and audio are accessible above and everywhere you pod — Apple, Spotify and YouTube. The 2026 NFL season is closing in. Our season previews will be rolling out soon. Go Long paid subscribers can access all team deep dives, all player profiles and all podcasts all season long. New here? It’s a perfect time to join our community.Current member? You gain rewards by sharing the word. 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 July Fourth to all! Hope everyone enjoys a day full of country music, fireworks and a Busch Light or two. Hey, is there a former player you’ve always wanted to meet? A question you’re dying to ask yourself?Let me know and we’ll do everything we can to get that player on a virtual Happy Hour this 2026 season.The mission here — always — is to bring you as close to the sport as we possibly can. So, paid subscribers can fully expect a steady stream of Zoom hangouts this season. Thrilled to bring ‘em back as this also gives us all a chance to get to know each other and build our community.First up this season? Isaiah McKenzie. We did a show together through the ‘21 and ‘22 seasons and, man, the former Buffalo Bills receiver always delivered.Now that he’s out, you bet McKenzie has a lot to say.Topics on this Happy Hour Replay include… * Life today. He’s a Dad. He’s figuring it out one day at a time. * How “Love Island” makes Baby No. 2 a possibility. * His thoughts on new Highmark Stadium. * Hell no, he doesn’t believe in bringing a wedding gift. (Sorry, Devin Singletary.)* Remember when McKenzie was suspended by the Indianapolis Colts under mysterious circumstances? No, it did not involve a bald eagle. He explains what happened.* Joe Brady. The two did cross paths when Brady was the QBs coach in Buffalo and McKenzie remains plugged into everything at One Bills Drive. He’s extremely high on the hire. * McKenzie was a big Sean McDermott fan — and explains why. The two still stay in touch.* McKenzie also understands why the Bills needed to fire McDermott — and explains why. He points to his experience with the Georgia Bulldogs as an example. For some teams, there’s a special something, a magic element, missing. (The “process” was needed. The “process” worked. But he also wishes the coach would’ve said “F the process” at a few specific moments.)* And you will definitely need to stick around to the end. McKenzie opens up on his darker days post-NFL. When he suffered an injury with the Giants and his football career evaporated — with a baby on the way — my former co-host admits he slipped into a very dark, depressed state. On our free list at Go Long? We’d love to welcome you on as a paid subscriber. You’ll be able to join all Happy Hours with players and media members. Current member? Thank you for sharing the word.ICYMI this week: ‘I’m back:’ Jamal Lewis gets to the other sideReal Football: Chris Johnson, ALS and reconciling the dark side of footballStedman Bailey, after the bullets‘I choose to be positive:’ Stedman Bailey on the night that could’ve ended his life, NFL what-ifs, finding joy, paying it forward 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

On Nov. 24, 2015, Stedman Bailey’s life changed forever.He was shot in the head twice. His skull shattered. Blood gushed. The grisly play by play remains forever fresh in his mind.“Like a war zone,” Bailey told me once. “Call of Duty, but you’re really there.”Miraculously, the NFL wide receiver survived. In 2018, I spent a few days with Bailey out in California for a story and he opened up on everything. At the time, he was hoping to make an NFL comeback. “I have a divine purpose to be here,” Bailey said back then. “You don’t just survive those shots and walk around normal. I feel like we as people all have specific plans on Earth.” Years later, his purpose is becoming clear. Bailey is a father of three, trains wide receivers and is determined to help anyone who experienced the same trauma as himself — including Florida State football player Ethan Pritchard. He can relate to everything Pritchard’s going through right now.Bailey has even chosen to live right back in South Florida. He’s driven past the scene of the crime.No, he never did find out who tried to kill them that night, though he’s sure people in the neighborhood know. Watching NFL games, he also cannot help but play endless games of “what if.” At West Virginia, he was a Big 12 star. With the St. Louis Rams, his future was bright. Then, poof. Gone. As he explains here on the Go Long Podcast, life is all about perspective.His life changed forever that night in Miami Gardens… but at least he’s got a life. Each morning, he can smile.Video and audio of our conversation is above. If words are preferable, here’s the transcript. As always, Go Long is powered by you. Thank you for supporting independent journalism.It’s been a reunion week of sorts. Miss my conversation with Jamal Lewis? Here’s that Q&A. After suffering from crippling suicidal thoughts, he’s 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

Heartbreaking news stopped all of us in our tracks this week. Chris Johnson — the breathtaking Tennessee Titans running back — revealed on “Good Morning America” that he has ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease. He was diagnosed in 2025 at the age of 39. The disease is progressing rapidly. Johnson communicated during the ABC interview via an eye-tracking, speech-generating device. The entire interview is worth your time.It’s devastating. It’s courageous. Johnson vows to fight the disease and raise as much awareness as he possibly can. At one point during the conversation, Johnson notes that he could tell something was wrong when he had weakness in his right hand and didn’t feel as strong. His wife, Brittany, thought he might be dealing with the effects of a 10-year NFL career. She thought initially that it might’ve been a pinched nerve. During the segment, Michael Strahan cites this as a case of “sporadic ALS,” adding that 90 percent of ALS cases are random. The former pro Strahan did not broach the connection between the disease and the sport at all during the interview, but it’s also true that the risk of NFL players getting ALS are nearly four times as high as the general populace. Here’s that study of 19,423 players from the National Library of Medicine.On this episode of Real Football, we try to make sense of this all. Honesty, as always, sure would be the best policy for a league that has historically done everything in its power to distract from the connection between the sport and brain trauma. My co-host Jim Monos also dusts off memories of scouting Johnson out of East Carolina when he was with the Saints. Monos even threw Johnson passes at his pro day.Johnson was a special talent. In Year 1, he led the Titans to a 13-3 record. In Year 2, he amassed 2,509 scrimmage yards — still an NFL record. His electric speed was unmatched. Later on the pod, we discuss whether individual talents can still single-handedly take over games with defenses so hellbent on eliminating big plays. We also discuss Jayden Daniels’ next move with the Washington Commanders and Monos gets a few more shots in on Jerry Rice, amongst other topics. Appreciate all for watching, listening and sharing. 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

Football is funny. If Jayden Reed catches that deep crosser on the Green Bay Packers’ final drive vs. Chicago or if Christian Watson goes up with two hands at the goal line to catch a magnificent throw from his quarterback, the conversation around Jordan Love, Matt LaFleur and the 2026 Packers is much different.This wild-card drive had a chance to go down in Packers/NFL lore. It did not. Chicago hung on. Pressure on all parties involved ratchets up this fall. It’s looking like Micah Parsons will miss a hearty chunk of this season as he recovers from a torn ACL. Several other starters departed, too. All of which means Love must elevate in Year 4 as this team’s starter. He’s the focus of this Real Football episode with co-host Jim Monos. The former Eagles/Saints/Bills personnel man studied the tape and shares his thoughts. Then, we zoom out to rank and debate all NFC North quarterbacks.Who’s No. 1? Monos is a believer in the apple of Ryan Poles’ eyes and I’m sensing a very hungry Lions team in Allen Park.The pod starts with our thoughts on Brendan Sorsby. There will be no supplemental draft for the QB. The shield’s hypocrisy is hilarious. The pod ends with thoughts on my former Bleacher Report co-worker Matt Miller, who was recently involved in a near-fatal car accident. Our prayers are with you, my friend.As always, Go Long subscribers can access the full hour of “Real Football.”New here? We’d love to have you join our community today.Video and audio is above. If you prefer to listen on Apple or Overcast as a subscriber, bang it here to sync your subscription. Instructions on syncing on Spotify are also here. 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 fan base, like many, was dying for a Super Bowl. The Philadelphia Eagles slayed Tom Brady and the Patriots in 2017, then Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs in 2024.Yet, grace periods last about as long as the taste from a stick of Juicy Fruit gum ‘round here. You didn’t need to turn the volume up on your television to hear boo birds last season. Lest we forget, these Eagles did win the NFC East, too.Here at Go Long, we continue to explore this fascinating team with an old friend from my Syracuse days: Zach Berman. Always love touching base with “ZB,” a man who’s incredibly prolific on the beat. You can read his columns, features and analysis at The Athletic. He also wrote a book, “Leap Year,” that’d make for an excellent Father’s Day gift.On this Go Long Pod episode, we touch on everything…* Who’s to blame for the problems on offense last season — quarterback Jalen Hurts or offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo?* Was Hurts going rogue in 2025? (If so, perhaps he had a reason.)* What can we expect to see from the team’s new OC, Sean Mannion? * Zach calls Lane Johnson the greatest player he’s ever covered, and explains why. * Saquon Barkley rushed for 2K just two seasons ago. Running backs also tend to slip off cliffs. Jeff Stoutland, a legend of an O-Line coach, is also gone. How many peak seasons does the team’s engine have left?* This 2026 defense could be even better than the 2024 crew.* There is some brain drain on the defensive staff. Christian Parker, who we profiled during Super Bowl Week, headed to the Dallas Cowboys.* And, oh yeah. A.J. Brown is gone. He’s also one of the best wide receivers in the sport. Philly’s best-case scenario? DeVonta Smith enjoys his own JSN-like ascent. (ZB also wrote a piece on Smith becoming a Girl Dad worth your time.) Full video and audio is above. Many Go Long Podcast episodes are also available on our Apple, Spotify and YouTube channels. Subscribers can always access “Real Football” with co-host Jim Monos. As always, thank you for supporting and/or considering an upgrade.Miss our two features on Eagles players this week? I hung out with Drew Mukuba at a diner near The Linc and also reprised a feature on Jonathan Greenard. Both will play massive roles on this year’s team. 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

There’s no high-drama quite like pro football and every high drama needs a villain. That’s why Game of Thrones devolved into steaming garbage the final season. It was not ruthless enough. After a sloppy, injury-plagued 2025, the Kansas City Chiefs aren’t quite as loathed at the moment. Could the Los Angeles Rams fill that void? On this week’s episode of Real Football, we discuss the blockbuster trade heard ‘round the league: Myles Garrett to the Rams. This roster is loaded. Good luck finding a weakness. But let’s not forget about those defending champs in Seattle.At the top of the show, it’s all Josh Allen.I sat down with the Buffalo Bills quarterback for our latest feature, available right here for paid subscribers. At 30, as a new Dad, he’s “extremely rejuvenated.” On the pod, we examine the landscape of this AFC. Getting to the Super Bowl is on Allen’s mind. As usual, we bounce around to various topics. I’ve got to admit the NBA has been quite entertaining and we get to that A.J. Brown trade. The New England Patriots are loading up around Drake Maye.But I’ve got a sneaking suspicion that there will be much feedback concerning one of my co-host’s takes. Jim Monos scouted for the Eagles, the Saints and was a personnel exec with the Bills. He harbors a strong, contrarian view on one… Joe Montana. Appreciate everyone who has found Go Long this week in light of our Allen piece.As a friendly reminder, we’re powered by you. No ads, no sponsors, no gambling blood money. Thank you for supporting independent journalism. Video and audio of this episode is available above and over on our Apple, Spotify and YouTube channels. 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

Josh Allen’s arm remains Henry Rowengartner strong. DJ Moore’s route running has been silky smooth in this setting.All of those new defensive pieces are starting to piece together in Jim Leonhard’s defense.OTAs have commenced across the country with minicamps ‘round the bend and training camps closer than you think. I spent some time this week at One Bills Drive for big stuff you’ll see roll out in the future. Until then, here’s a pod. I joined Jay Skurski of The Buffalo News at the Big Tree Inn, a Hail Mary toss from the new stadium, for an episode of the Go Long Pod. Always enjoy talking shop with Jay, and he recently penned a feature on Davison Igbinosun worth your time. We hit on a bunch of topics… * Joe Brady is the man in charge now. X’s and O’s will matter. But it’s clear the new boss bounding drill to drill is trying to infuse the Bills with a new energy. * Allen’s arm looks spry as ever. Nobody should take this quarterback for granted. (A certain “hospitality tent” throw comes to mind.)* Brady wants these Bills to ATTACK. “They’ve got to play us” is a theme. How can the Bills drill this theme home in the spring?* Brady also told Go Long that Pete Carmichael was his most important hire. Why? The new OC met with the media on Tuesday.* Who’s a player on offense that could surprise in 2026? We each offer a submission. (Hint: One uses blunt language.)* Why Ed Oliver’s play style could fit Leonhard’s expected chaos. * Cornerback was always a major need and GM Brandon Beane explained why in our 1 on 1. We discuss the team’s most polarizing draft pick: Ohio State’s “IGB.” You can catch the video and audio of our conversation above.Be on the lookout for more coverage this coming Friday.Thanks, all.Related:* ‘My chip is deeper:’ Our 1 on 1 with Bills GM Brandon Beane* Joe Brady takes charge, Part I: ‘I’ll set my jaw’* Joe Brady takes charge, Part II: ‘They’ve got to play us’* ‘He wants to win the whole damn thing:’ Inside the Buffalo Bills’ decision to hire Joe Brady as HC 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

Aaron Rodgers and Mike McCarthy are together again. What a difference seven years make, eh? The Pittsburgh Steelers refuse to rebuild, so they’ll roll with a fading great who turns 43 years old this season. McCarthy evolved in Dallas, escaped the Jerry World rot and will try to squeeze a little more magic out of his old QB. He doesn’t need to do this. What an opportunity the coach had to develop someone else.But while one ex-Packer sees squabbling between the two as inevitable, another offers a different prediction. And my co-host Jim Monos is downright giddy. This was a fun episode of “Real Football.” OTAs can offer funky headlines. Our charge this week is simple: Which team has you legitimately excited? Monos explains why he’s in on the Steelers changes and sees hope in Tennessee. Our former NFL scout/exec says Cam Ward is the most talented quarterback in the AFC South. Meanwhile, I like how Kevin O’Connell pivoted his Vikings. Kyler Murray is set up to succeed. Maybe this is all being sold as a “competition” at quarterback. Murray was brought in to start and contend. We delve into Monos’ take that O-Line is overvalued by NFL GMs, my take on Jaxson Dart and other topics, too.Video and audio is above. You can also catch this episode on our Apple, Spotify and YouTube channels. Be sure to rate, review and share if you enjoy. Paid subscribers can access all future episodes of the show. Miss anything in print this past week?* He’s been patronized, mocked, dismissed by the football world. None of it stopped one of the sport’s smallest players. Now, it’s time to bring life to decrepit MetLife and awaken the Giants. My profile of Calvin Austin III is here.* A few thoughts on the topic du jour. No, Jaxson Dart did not nuke the locker room.* Drafting linemen high is a waste of time if you don’t have a quarterback. Monos column here. 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

New GM. New head coach. New quarterback. Oh, the Miami Dolphins are also eating nearly $200 million in dead money.This is an organization long overdue for such a complete reset. Jon-Eric Sullivan, Jeff Hafley and Malik Willis all travel from frigid Wisconsin to South Florida in an attempt to build something special from scratch.I spent time in Florida on our most recent reporting trip for features you’ll see as training camps close in. Enjoyed two very compelling conversations. In the meantime, I thought it’d be a good time to catch up Kyle Crabbs of Touchdown, Miami! here on Substack for a podcast episode. Kyle does an excellent job analyzing everything Dolphins. We look back at where things went wrong for Mike McDaniel and Tua Tagovailoa after rocketing to 10,000 feet in Year 1 and why it’s smart for this team to cleanse the locker room. Out is Tyreek Hill, Jalen Ramsey and other highly compensated vets who weren’t particularly the best leaders. Out is Tua. In are players, in theory, who are the polar opposite on and off the field.For too long, this roster’s been a mere collection of talent. Maybe now the Dolphins can build a true team. Go Long strives to deliver raw storytelling and bring you real pro football.We also rely completely on your support. Thank you for reading, subscribing and sharing with a friend. ICYMI: Joe Brady takes charge, Part I: ‘I’ll set my jaw’Joe Brady takes charge, Part II: ‘They’ve got to play us’‘My chip is deeper:’ Our 1 on 1 with Bills GM Brandon Beane 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

Offseason hope tends to get choked out by regular-season realities for the New York Giants.Yet with John Harbaugh, there are tangible reasons for optimism. I chatted with some people inside the building for this recent piece. It sure sounds like Harbaugh and GM Joe Schoen are in lockstep — don’t be surprised if contracts get aligned. The two have worked well together. To take a closer look at the roster itself, let’s welcome Ed Valentine onto the Go Long Pod. Valentine is the man behind Big Blue View at SB Nation and Valentine’s Views on the Big Blue YouTube channel. He always brings strong institutional knowledge and insight as a man who’s covered everything from Super Bowl triumphs to Joe Judge-orchestrated quarterback sneaks. We discuss this shift from Brian Daboll to John Harbaugh, what to expect out of Jaxson Dart in Year 2 and all of the moves the Giants made around their young quarterback this offseason. There’s logic to follow. Video and audio is accessible above. Thanks, all.We’d love it if you helped grow our community today. We’ve got three recent columns available to paid subscribers live at Go Long here, icymi: Mike McCarthy doesn’t need to do thisThere’s some Azeez Al-Shaair in all of usWhy this feels real for the New York Giants 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

We are both wearing gray Under Armour shirts. This was not planned. Apologies for the uniformed visual. As it pertains to the prospects of these 2026 Green Bay Packers… our views differ.Always enjoy welcoming on Mike Tanier of Too Deep Zone. This week, Tanier authored a critical look at the Packers — he sees a sharp decline coming. Here at Go Long, we’ve examined the psychology of the the team through Javon Bullard’s eyes and Brian Gutekunst’s construction. So, it felt like a perfect time for a hearty discussion/debate on the state of this team. Tanier dissects holes on the depth chart, whereas I put the onus on the head coach needing to maximize a new temperament in the building. Video and audio is above. Unfortunately, I could not coax Tanier into any hockey talk, but here’s a clip of Brian Campbell sending R.J. Umberger into next Tuesday.Thanks, all. Note: I’m still getting some excellent mailbag questions. If you’d like to submit one, fire away at [email protected]. Also, here is today’s story on why we could all listen to our inner Azeez Al-Shaair, 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

Why exactly are pro football players different than the rest of us? Exhibit A: Mister’s Bar & Lanes in East Aurora, NY on Monday night.Isaiah McKenzie could not even move after absorbing a vicious hit in Baltimore that knocked him out of the Buffalo Bills’ 23-20 comeback win. And yet, he cannot wait to venture across the middle of the field again. He loves the physicality. He knows that’s what separates him as a slot receiver. Make no mistake, too. This was a scary moment. On Episode 3 of “The Isaiah McKenzie Show,” the 5-foot-7 receiver takes everyone through the collision and the aftermath. Concussions are obviously back in the NFL headlines and we’ve seen quite a few motionless players sprawled on the turf in NFL games this season. We all love the sport’s violence but, holy, it comes with a cost. McKenzie details exactly what that cost is.He does believe his mind is doing just fine… even though he’s currently using this concussion to get out of cleaning dishes at home with his girlfriend. When you come from where McKenzie did in South Florida — yes, a bullet once grazed him — you’ll gladly accept football’s inherent risks. Also, on this episode, we dig into Buffalo finally winning a close game. McKenzie refers to Sean McDermott as a “dad” and Brandon Beane as the “cool uncle” in taking all of your questions.As always, the goal of this show is to take you beyond the press conferences and locker room. McKenzie says himself at the end of this pod that he never wants to spew mindless cliches as if part of a “cult.” His raw honesty is refreshing. We want to bring you as close as possible to this league at Go Long. Live around Western New York? Come on out to one of our five remaining live shows at Mister’s. All dates are below.You can watch or listen to the show right here at GoLongTD.com or within the Go Long Podcast feeds:APPLESPOTIFYYOUTUBEMiss a previous episode from Season 2? Catch up below…Ep 1: Inside the gender reveal and the beatdown of the L.A. RamsEp 2: What was running through the receiver's mind that final play?Also: All episodes from Season 1 are archived on our site.Go Long is your source for longform journalism in pro football. We’re completely powered by you. Subscribe today: Here are the remaining dates for our live recordings at Mister’s Bar & Lanes in East Aurora, NY:* Monday, Oct. 10* Monday, Nov. 14* Monday, Dec. 12* Monday, Dec. 19* Monday, Jan. 9As a reminder, right now, you can pre-order “The Blood and Guts: How Tight Ends Save Football” at 30% off and receive a signed bookplate. Just click this link. 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

Not all gender reveals hit the mark. Many crash and burn.Not all touchdown celebrations pan out, either.Yet, Isaiah McKenzie certainly nailed this one. After scoring his first touchdown of the 2022 season, the Buffalo Bills’ slot receiver screamed “It’s a boy!” into the camera. As we all know now, the message was for his sister. The side-by-side videos quickly went viral.There was much to discuss on Season 2, Episode 1 of “The Isaiah McKenzie Show.” We relived the Bills’ 31-10 smackdown of the Los Angeles Rams live from Mister’s Bar & Lanes in East Aurora, NY. * McKenzie dissects the two plays you all saw at home: his drop that led to an interception and his moment of redemption in the third quarter. His seven-yard touchdown catch says so much about playing in the slot. It’s a thinking man’s position.* How are the Bills handling historic Super Bowl expectations? An absurd amount of people are betting on this team to win it all. Fans may be nervous, but the players are not. * Stefon Diggs vs. Jalen Ramsey. It was not a fair fight. McKenzie, who describes himself as Diggs’ personal “babysitter” explains how Diggs went off. * What surprised him most from the win? The Bills’ dominant defensive line. (Even if Von Miller can’t dance.) * The last half of the show, McKenzie brings it back to the offseason. He could’ve signed with seven different teams as a free agent. Other clubs offered him more money than the Bills. But the receiver who arrived in Buffalo way back in 2018 says he wanted to finish the job right here because of his bonds with teammates. * How did he blow up in training camp? Good ‘ol fashioned hard work, and McKenzie got the message loud and clear when the team signed Jamison Crowder.* Ken Dorsey’s first game calling plays as the Bills’ offensive coordinator. McKenzie likes what he sees.Go Long is an independent newsletter that covers pro football through a longform lens. Subscribe today to get all stories, all podcasts, all analysis delivered to your email inbox:The purpose of this show? To go beyond the press conference and the locker room. We want to give fans — the ones pouring millions of dollars into this sport — an authentic view of the sport. Something beyond poll-tested, sanitized cliches. Season 1 of The Isaiah McKenzie Show was a riot, so we’re back. You can watch or listen to all episodes right here at Go Long. If podcasts are your thing, all episodes will also be shared within the Go Long Podcast feed. Here is Episode 1:APPLESPOTIFYYOUTUBEAnd, remember, you can watch the show LIVE at Mister’s Bar & Lanes in East Aurora, NY. The remaining seven episodes will all be on Mondays at 6 p.m. (EST): 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 was the sort of transaction that few people probably even noticed. Two weeks ago, linebacker Tyrel Dodson re-signed with the Buffalo Bills as an exclusive rights free agent. Most people outside of Western New York may not know who Dodson is — hell, maybe they’re still discovering him in WNY — but he plans on changing that in 2022.Undrafted out of Texas A&M, Dodson originally signed with the Bills in 2019 and has developed into one of the team’s core special teams players. The last two seasons, he played 416 snaps on special teams with 250 on defense. We’ve seen countless playmaking linebackers across the league cut their teeth on special teams before getting their shot. Dodson plans on being the next. The Bills could use him, too.We talked football, life and everything in-between for nearly an hour.As you’ll learn, a gritty upbringing in Franklin, Tenn., made Dodson who he is today. Many lessons were learned from his mother and grandmother and, holy, he could’ve easily sifted into the streets as a teen. Now, Dodson is banking on his undrafted mentality being the difference this upcoming season — it’s a perspective that certainly has roots. Dodson is on Twitter at @tdots25, and is quite an entertaining follow. The next time it’s sub-zero in Orchard Park, chances are, he’ll pop the shirt off again, too. That earned him a cool $500 before Buffalo’s wild card win over New England.You can download the Go Long Podcast anywhere you get pods with a few links and a video below.Thanks, all. APPLESPOTIFYYOUTUBE 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 month it’s been for Isaiah McKenzie.Not sure we’ve seen a turnaround quite like this anywhere in the NFL this season.Way back when the Buffalo Bills were shellacked by the Indianapolis Colts, 41-15, the receiver/returner was promptly sent to the bench. Head coach Sean McDermott appeared to be making an example out of McKenzie after his fumble in the blowout loss. And right then, as he explains on this week’s show, McKenzie feared his career with the Bills may be finished.He was inactive in New Orleans, then inactive against the Patriots at home.McKenzie got called back up for a handful of plays in Tampa Bay and finally — with wide receivers Cole Beasley and Gabriel Davis both on the Covid-19 list — McKenzie was needed. He did not disappoint, either. In Buffalo’s 33-21 win in Foxborough, he caught 11 passes for 125 yards with one touchdown. Again and again, quarterback Josh Allen looked for McKenzie in crucial situations and now Super Bowl hopes are very real again for the Bills.On “The Isaiah McKenzie Show,” at Go Long, McKenzie digs into it all…* The benching. He breaks down his conversation with McDermott and what happened next personally. It took a few sleepless nights to get past his head coach’s decision. McKenzie was in his own head. This wasn’t easy.* How he dominated Bill Belichick’s defense. Not many receivers can live to tell these stories but McKenzie knew that in man-to-man coverage, no cornerback could keep up with him. So, he ate Myles Bryant's lunch.* His rapport with Josh Allen. He’s convinced they still have a rare connection that goes back to 2018 when Allen was a raw rookie out of Wyoming and he was just trying to save his NFL career after the Denver Broncos gave up on him. The two are tight. Allen believed in McKenzie with Beasley and Davis both out.* Spending Christmas Eve with complete strangers. It's the ultimate Western New York story, isn't it? McKenzie was hungry, let folks know on social media and, voila, all of a sudden he's at the kitchen table with a family. He explains how it all happened.* His Georgia Bulldogs are playing in the College Football Playoff. He wants a piece of ‘Bama in the title game, too.* Remember when McKenzie’s chest landed on the ball? He’s still feeling the effects of that one.* What does the future entail for McKenzie? He’s been joking with teammates that coaches only use him one game a year, so who the heck knows what happens next. Maybe now, a calendar year later, he is this team’s secret weapon.You can watch and/or listen to The Isaiah McKenzie Show right here at Go Long. Audio and video options are both available above. Or, if podcasting is your thing, the shows are always available right inside the main Go Long Podcast feed on Apple and Spotify as well as its own standalone podcast feed on Apple and Spotify. All episodes also can be found on our YouTube channel.We do have one more in-person show scheduled at Mister’s in East Aurora, N.Y. for next week, though stay tuned to GoLongTD.com for updates.Thanks, everyone.Go Long is a completely independent newsletter committed to finding a story you have not read (or heard) before. If you’d like to support independent journalism, you can upgrade to a full subscription right here:Miss a past episode? You can catch up right here:Ep 7: One shining momentEp 6: What happened to the Bills?Ep 5: ‘I was grazed by a bullet once’Ep 4: The true story of 'Lil Dirty'Ep 3: Why it's time for the Buffalo Bills to give him a scout team 'bonus'Ep 2: Inside the Bills’ demolition at ArrowheadEp 1: From Miami Gardens to Orchard Park 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

Enjoy this free episode of the "Ty & Bob Pod." To get all eps, become a subscriber at GoLongTD.com today! Each week, Bob McGinn and Tyler Dunne break down the Green Bay Packers' game in full, unfiltered detail. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices 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

The reason the Los Angeles Rams have treated draft picks like junk mail was to win the Super Bowl this season. That’s it. Nothing else is acceptable for Sean McVay’s club. One year ago, they lost to the Packers, 32-18, in the divisional round. Together, Matthew Stafford, Jalen Ramsey, Von Miller and Odell Beckham Jr., were supposed to flip that score and elevate the Rams back to the Super Bowl which is, conveniently, in their own stadium this season.So, how’s that working out? Not good.The Packers delivered the Rams a numbing reality check on Sunday evening at Lambeau Field with a 36-28 win. On this week’s “Ty & Bob Pod,” we dissect it all… and also give Bob a moment to bask in Michigan’s gigantic triumph. Davante Adams, again, showed why he’s one of the best wide receivers in the NFL. AJ Dillon, again, blasted a defender into tomorrow. The defense allowed a couple big plays but, again, didn’t need to do anything crazy schematically with Kenny Clark and Rashan Gary mauling folks.And while Stafford remained Stafford with another pick-six, quarterback Aaron Rodgers was even better than you think. His sterling numbers don’t tell the full story, either. The reigning MVP was surgical downfield and helped his own offensive line a ton against one of the best defensive fronts in the league. Enjoy the full podcast above.Thanks, everyone.Bob McGinn’s Football Awards (maximum is 5, minimum is one-half)* RECEIVERS: 4* OFFENSIVE LINE: 3 1/2* QUARTERBACKS: 4 1/2* RUNNING BACKS: 3 1/2* DEFENSIVE LINE: 4* LINEBACKERS: 4* DEFENSIVE BACKS: 3 1/2* KICKERS: 2* SPECIAL TEAMS: 3* OVERALL: 4STARS OF THE WEEKOne. Aaron Rodgers, QBTwo. Rashan Gary, LBThree. Adrian Amos, S 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

Both teams are on a collision course in the AFC East. Did the Bills really get back on track in New Orleans? How have the Patriots rattled off five straight wins.We talk to The Athletic's Matthew Fairburn about both teams as a MNF showdown looms.Be sure to take advantage of our Black Friday deal at GoLongTD.com today to subscribe and get everything we have to offer. Thanks, all!https://www.golongtd.com/p/old-school-week-is-comingLearn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices 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

Join the building community at Go Long today at 25% off. All details at GoLongTD.com: https://www.golongtd.com/p/old-school-week-is-comingThis special runs through the rest of November. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices 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

No, this is not how the Buffalo Bills wanted to be playing football into late November. There is legitimate cause for concern.Unlike last season, they’re not routing opponents with ease. The Indianapolis Colts effectively punched the Bills in the mouth, again and again, through a 41-15 win on Sunday.So, what now? As we wrote at Go Long, the Bills’ problems run deep into the fabric of how this team was built. They’ll have a chance to turn things around quick on Thanksgiving at New Orleans.The fans who pour millions of dollars into the NFL don’t get the full story unfortunately with open locker room closed off to the media this season, which is a big reason we started the Isaiah McKenzie Show — he is willing to give everyone a real feel for how this league works. And, as always, McKenzie is honest this episode. He digs into the loss, the mood and his own fumble at the end of the first half.We also discuss McKenzie’s highly successful BBQ restaurant in Miami. It has become an incredible passion of his with “La Traila Barbecue Miami” voted the No. 1 BBQ spot in South Florida, too.And for a good half-hour, McKenzie takes everyone’s questions at Mister’s Bar & Lanes in East Aurora, NY.Subscribe to the Go Long newsletter to get everything we have to offer today, at GoLongTD.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices 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

We're an even 21-21. Let's get down to business and make you some dough.Subscribe to the Go Long newsletter today at GoLongTD.com -- thanks, all!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices 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

We're all about the 90s here on the Go Long Podcast so, with the Browns in the news, we bring on former bashing running back Leroy Hoard.He was a Pro Bowler back on the '94 Browns that made the playoffs. He remembers what life was like when the franchise moved from Cleveland to Baltimore. We reminisce on that pain, discuss the Buffalo Bills' pursuit of a new stadium and, of course, dive deep on the Browns of today with a hearty debate over quarterback Baker Mayfield.As always, subscribe to Go Long at GoLongTD.com to get everything we have to offer and be on the lookout for our next live event at Hamburg Brewing Company in Western NY!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices 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

Central to the Buffalo Bills’ turnaround last weekend was the man known as “Lil Dirty” himself.Isaiah McKenzie injected needed life into the Bills against the New York Jets as only McKenzie can with some pregame battle cries, a big punt return and his first touchdown of the season.On Episode 5 of The Isaiah McKenzie Show, here at Go Long, the receiver/returner takes you inside the team’s massive energy shift. How can a team look so bad one week and so good the next? He explains. Buffalo needed this 45-17 win with much tougher games ahead.Afterward, the team’s head coach praised McKenzie, too. Sean McDermott noted McKenzie’s maturation and the fact that he doesn’t come from much.So, here on the show, we take a deeper look into McKenzie’s upbringing down in Miami Gardens… and he shares a story few people in his life know. A bullet easily could’ve taken his life.It’s quite chilling, to say the least. So many of his friends weren’t so lucky.And, finally, McKenzie has some fun breaking down the Bills’ wacky wide receiver room. Without question, this position group could have its own sitcom with Stefon Diggs (“He’s the queen, the Madonna”), Cole Beasley (“Vaccine Boy”) and Emmanuel Sanders (“Splinter”) all supplying the laughs and tears on a day-to-day basis.Little do people know that McKenzie is one trying to keep Diggs calm, too.Thanks for watching and listening, everyone. Remember to submit questions for McKenzie to [email protected] more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices 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

If you make money, we'll take the credit. If not, don't come crying to us. Here are your LOCKS of the week.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices 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 fun conversation with longtime NFL quarterback Seneca Wallace. He doesn't hold back, too.The former Seahawks quarterback relives eye-opening memories of Mike Holmgren and Matt Hasselbeck, the time Jim Harbaugh used him as nothing more than "bait" as a 49ers QB for a week and, of course, we touch on his final season in the pros with Green Bay. You won't want to miss his perspective on Aaron Rodgers. He remembers a ridiculously talented quarterback who also happened to be quite strange as a person.Of course, we rip through Wallace's own career. He spent a decade in the West Coast offense but knows he could've offered so much more with his mobility.Be sure to check out the Go Long newsletter any time at GoLongTD.com. Join the free email list today.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices 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

Considering a full subscription at Go Long? We'd love to have you! When you subscribe at GoLongTD.com, you get full access to everything... including the "Ty & Bob Pod."Bob McGinn, my old beat partner at the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, has covered the Packers over the course of six decades and is in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Nobody watches film like him. Each week, he meticulously grades each player.With Aaron Rodgers in the news this week, I figured we'd share this week's episode on the main Go Long feed. Hope you enjoy and give us a try at Go Long.Thanks, all. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices 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

Surely, the Green Bay Packers expected more drama from their dramatic quarterback this 2021 season. They know him better than anyone.But… this? My God, what a week this was.Unless you’re just waking up from a coma, you’ve followed the madness. Aaron Rodgers was caught in his lie, went scorched earth on The Pat McAfee Show and then, without their MVP quarterback, the Packers lost to the Kansas City Chiefs, 13-7, at Arrowhead Stadium. The deception seems to be what ticked everyone off most, the fact that Rodgers wanted the world to believe he was vaccinated back in late August.So, on Tuesday, Rodgers offered a non-apology by saying: “Anybody who felt mislead by those comments, I take full responsibility for those comments.”There’s quite a bit to unpack here — off and on the field.Bob offers his full thoughts on Rodgers and we closely examine Jordan Love’s first start. It was a challenge but, as the tape shows, the miscues weren’t all on Love, either. Head coach Matt LaFleur did his young quarterback no favors. On the defensive side of the ball, there was a lot to like in KC, too.Also, this week’s “McGinn Memory” is another beaut. Bob looks back at another quarterback’s first appearance. Appreciate you all listening and waiting an extra day for this week’s pod. Bob McGinn’s Football Awards (maximum is 5, minimum is one-half)* RECEIVERS: 2* OFFENSIVE LINE: 2* QUARTERBACKS: 1 ½* RUNNING BACKS: 4* DEFENSIVE LINE: 3* LINEBACKERS: 3* DEFENSIVE BACKS: 4 ½* KICKERS: 1 ½* SPECIAL TEAMS: one-half* OVERALL: 2 ½STARS OF THE WEEKOne. A.J. Dillon, RBTwo. Darnell Savage, SThree. Krys Barnes, LB 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

Who's winning this week? We offer our three locks of the week vs the spread. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices 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

Aaron Rodgers says he wants a “conversation,” not a “controversy.” Great. Let’s have another Rodgers-themed conversation on the Go Long Podcast.Holy, what a week.As he’s done before, Rodgers decided to go scorched earth in an interview. This time, it’s because his jig was up and he had no other choice. After effectively lying to the public — afraid of outsiders discovering he was unvaccinated — Rodgers got Covid himself, didn’t have a choice but to speak and held one whopper of a chat with Pat McAfee.On this episode of the Go Long Podcast, former Bills director of personnel Jim Monos and myself try to offer a perspective you haven’t heard these last 72 hours on all things Rodgers and Odell Beckham Jr. (Hopefully your hearing is still intact, too.)While there’s certainly some good in what Rodgers had to say this week, his take on “silencing” people is quite interesting given his past. And not too long ago, Monos was dining with OBJ at Tempo Restaurant ahead of the 2014 NFL Draft. What did he pick up on the wide receiver’s personality then?Also, it was announced this week that a pair of previous Go Long Podcast guests would be inducted into the Saints Hall of Fame. Feel free to replay our eps with Roman Harper and Jahri Evans, and congrats to both. They didn’t disappoint during their Zooms with us.Thanks for listening, everyone.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices 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

Teammates said he smells… and has bad breath… and talks too much junk so, of course, we had to give Isaiah McKenzie an opportunity to snipe back here on Episode 4 of The Isaiah McKenzie Show at Go Long.On the Buffalo Bills’ own sponsored video clip on social media, McKenzie was roasted good.McKenzie doesn’t hold back with his response.From there, we learn more about the real “Lil Dirty” on the Isaiah McKenzie Show, live from Mister’s Bar & Lanes in East Aurora, N.Y.The nickname does have merit. He explains. Turns out, Stefon Diggs is to blame for the nickname taking off, too.McKenzie tends to fall asleep any given moment. Maybe it’s a team meeting. Maybe it’s on a hardwood floor at home. Without warning, McKenzie passes out any second of any day. His sister offers some insight, too.The team’s 26-11 win over Miami. How did Buffalo turn it around? This sure wasn’t looking good at halftime. McKenzie again offers a rare peek behind the curtain, explaining who spoke up in the locker room to get this offense rolling. Also, do such motivational speeches work? And can guest speakers like Phil Mickelson really resonate?Are opponents trying to hurt Josh Allen after plays? That appeared to be the case at the end of this win. Allen was not thrilled with Christian Wilkins of the Dolphins.Sadly, McKenzie has never heard of Jim Croce (or Christmas Vacation or George Costanza or Comedy Central), but we do learn which musician he listens to exclusively before every game. His answer may surprise you. Slow, sad music is what actually gets McKenzie’s mind right.He’s living out of a hotel today, but that wasn’t the case as a kid. McKenzie takes us all back to growing up in a one-bedroom apartment with eight siblings in Miami Gardens. Cockroaches and mice became his close friends.The Jacksonville Jaguars are up next so, naturally, we wonder if his head coach Sean McDermott would ever get caught up in the, uh, shenanigans their head coach did. You probably know the answer to that one and McKenzie, again, is hilarious when it comes to his head coach.Your questions. McKenzie answers everything for a good 20 to 25 minutes, promising to give one young fan in attendance the football if he scores a touchdown against the Jaguars.Thanks for watching and listening, everyone.As always, you can get every single episode in these posts right at GoLongTD.com, and wherever you get podcasts. The Isaiah McKenzie Show is available on the Go Long Podcast and also has its own Apple and Spotify channels. If YouTube is your thing, all 10 episodes can be found on YouTube.We’ve got six eps to go, two of which will be held at Mister’s Bar & Lanes in East Aurora, N.Y.Tables fill up fast so if you can make one of the final live shows — Nov. 22 and Jan. 3 (both at 6 p.m.) — be sure to make your reservation on the Mister’s Bar & Lanes website via OpenTable today. Paid subscribers to Go Long get first dibs on a table so, if you’d like, upgrade right here as well: GoLongTD.com.McKenzie loves hanging out with fans afterward. It’s a family-friendly environment, so feel free to bring your kids.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices 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

If you're interested in acquiring wealth, these 10 minutes will change your life.The Louie Locks have been on fire.Head on into Hamburg Brewing Company in Western New York to give the Louie IPA a try, and enjoy our picks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices 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

In 2013, Buffalo Bills GM Buddy Nix drafted EJ Manuel 16th overall to be the team's long-lost savior at the position. So, what happened? His story runs deeper than you think.Jim Monos, our pod co-host, was in the room as the team's director of personnel when the Bills told Manuel he was being benched shortly into Year 2. For the first time ever, Manuel explains what went through his head after that conversation. He entered a dark, dark place mentally and never was able to get his career back on track.I think everyone will enjoy this candid conversation with the former starting quarterback in Buffalo. It absolutely relates to rookie quarterbacks today, too. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices 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

It’s high time for Isaiah McKenzie to get the ball more in Buffalo. (A 101-yard kick return is proof of that, right?) It’s not time for anyone to hire Isaiah McKenzie as their next babysitter. (This story will crack you up.)He’s masterful at getting underneath the skin of teammates. (Just ask Micah Hyde.)He runs for miles… upon miles… upon miles every practice. (And sure wouldn’t mind a scout team “bonus” in his next deal.)These are just a handful of the many truths we learn on Episode 3 of the Isaiah McKenzie Show. Again, we record live from Mister’s Bar & Lanes in East Aurora, N.Y., and it’s a rollicking affair. We start off by reliving the Bills’ 34-31 loss in Nashville, where McKenzie was nearly the hero. His touchdown with three minutes to go was called back on a hold. From there, we look back at the moments that made McKenzie growing up. The questions from folks in the audience were fantastic, too.You’ll get the inside story on Dawson Knox’s two-point throw with a broken hand.With Halloween around the corner, McKenzie power ranks his top 5 candies. And I think you’ll enjoy McKenzie’s take on “taunting” in the NFL.A huge thanks to everyone who came on out to pack Mister’s. Remember, we’ll be there on site for three more episodes at the dates below. Make your reservation today. Subscribers to Go Long get first dibs at a table. Just note your email address in the comments section on Open Table or let them know on the phone.Monday, Nov. 1 (6 p.m.-7 p.m.)Monday, Nov. 22 (6 p.m.-7 p.m.)Monday, Jan. 3 (6 p.m.-7 p.m.)You can catch all 10 episodes of the Isaiah McKenzie Show, throughout the season, right here at GoLongTD.com, over on the flagship Go Long Podcast, on its own Apple and Spotify feeds and, of course, YouTube. Have a question for McKenzie? Email us at [email protected], everyone.Go Long is a newsletter dedicated to enterprising pro football journalism. Free and paid subscriptions are both available. You can support this publication best by subscribing here: 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

It’s high time for Isaiah McKenzie to get the ball more in Buffalo. (A 101-yard kick return is proof of that, right?)It’s not time for anyone to hire Isaiah McKenzie as their next babysitter. (This story will crack you up.)He’s masterful at getting underneath the skin of teammates. (Just ask Micah Hyde.)He runs for miles… upon miles… upon miles every practice. (And sure wouldn’t mind a scout team “bonus” in his next deal.)These are just a handful of the many truths we learn on Episode 3 of the Isaiah McKenzie Show. Again, we record live from Mister’s Bar & Lanes in East Aurora, N.Y., and it’s a rollicking affair. We start off by reliving the Bills’ 34-31 loss in Nashville, where McKenzie was nearly the hero. His touchdown with three minutes to go was called back on a hold. From there, we look back at the moments that made McKenzie growing up. The questions from folks in the audience were fantastic, too.You’ll get the inside story on Dawson Knox’s two-point throw with a broken hand.With Halloween around the corner, McKenzie power ranks his top 5 candies.And I think you’ll enjoy McKenzie’s take on “taunting” in the NFL.A huge thanks to everyone who came on out to pack Mister’s. Remember, we’ll be there on site for three more episodes at the dates below. Make your reservation today. Subscribers to Go Long get first dibs at a table. Just note your email address in the comments section on Open Table or let them know on the phone.Monday, Nov. 1 (6 p.m.-7 p.m.)Monday, Nov. 22 (6 p.m.-7 p.m.)Monday, Jan. 3 (6 p.m.-7 p.m.)You can catch all 10 episodes of the Isaiah McKenzie Show, throughout the season, right here at GoLongTD.com, over on the flagship Go Long Podcast, on its own Apple and Spotify feeds and, of course, YouTube.Have a question for McKenzie? Email us at [email protected] more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices 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

Our three cold-hard, take-'em-to-the-bank LOCKS of this week inside, supported by Hamburg Brewing Company. Stop on in sometime for some Louie, the best IPA in Western New York.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices 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

There will never be another defense quite like the “Blitzburgh” Steelers of the 1990s.They were mean. They were violent. They… probably could not exist in today’s NFL.We take a look back at the Steelers of old and the Steelers of today on this week’s edition of the Go Long Podcast. It’s an interesting time for a team quarterbacked by the 39-year-old Ben Roethlisberger. There’s some sound logic to this franchise’s desire to win now, but the future Hall-of-Famer has struggled.Kirkland is a master storyteller and doesn’t hold back on…His pal, Greg Lloyd, who once smashed his wrist and left permanent damage. Lloyd was one of a kind.His own game. At 280, Kirkland would still carry tight ends up the seam.The “Art of Defense,” and what exactly made that Steelers 3-4 defense so special.His memorable battles with fullbacks Sam Gash and Howard Griffith. (Kirkland rights the history, too.)Why he believes Kordell Stewart was held back at QB — Kirkland says he was made for today’s NFL, too.What’s up with the Steelers of today? Kirkland has some thoughts. He believes the quarterback is holding the team back.ICYMI, here’s our feature at Go Long last season on the history of the Steelers’ linebacker, too, through the eyes of Kirkland, Joey Porter, Chad Brown and Vince Williams. It’s a tradition unlike any other in the NFL. And Kirkland helps bring it all to life here on the pod for those in need of a little 90s nostalgia.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices 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

Subscribe to GoLongTD.com today for full access to future hangouts with current and former players.On this Go Long Happy Hour, subscribers hang out with former Bills quarterback Rob Johnson.Ahead of the Bills' win over the Chiefs, Johnson shared some old Flutiemania stories, the fight at halftime of the Music City Miracle, discussed his turbulent career and a lot more. For a full Q&A with Johnson, here's what we had at Go Long over the offseason.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices 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

We're 8-3-1 the last two weeks against the spread. Free money this episode...Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices 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

The timing was right to check in with the man who knows Lamar Jackson best.Joshua Harris has been coaching the Ravens quarterback privately back to high school and still helps him week to week. He details the quarterback's rise -- and why he has always embraced a challenge. Also, Harris goes deep on why Jackson truly is "1 of 1" at the position, right down to how he reads NFL defenses in a different way.And football in South Florida? It's insanely competitive from Pop Warner on. (More than you might think.) Our interview with Harris starts at the 27:57 mark. Up to then, we discuss the Bills' demolition of KC, why Matthew Stafford isn't as good as you may think and, of course, Jon Gruden. The NFL probably isn't too worried about the bad headlines this week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices 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

To fans, the Buffalo Bills’ 38-20 domination of the Kansas City Chiefs felt like more than just another regular season win. This was the team that knocked the Bills off in the AFC title game, after all.To players, it sure felt special, too.On Episode 2 of the The Isaiah McKenzie, we relive the Buffalo win — from the weather delay to the budding Chiefs rivalry to Josh Allen vs. Patrick Mahomes. McKenzie signed with the Bills in 2018, so he’s seen Allen’s maturation up close. What may surprise you is that he had no clue who Allen even was upon arriving in Western New York. The receiver explains just how much his quarterback has grown since that rookie year. And, big picture, Sunday night’s result is giving the 2021 Bills a ton of confidence.“We know — we know — that we have to beat them,” McKenzie said on this week’s episode, “to show not only just them, but the world, that we come to play this game to win this game to show you that we’re not just any Buffalo Bills team. We’re not just a Buffalo Bills team that’s around to make it to the AFC Championship Game or have potential to make the playoffs every year now. We’re trying to win something bigger than that. “The Chiefs, last year and the year before, were the standard. Patrick Mahomes. Tyreek Hill. Travis Kelce. I can go down the line. Tyrann Mathieu. They were the standard. Those guys had been winning. In order to beat them, you have to find winners that want to beat them. “We’re trying to win and we know we have to go through them.” There’s X ‘n O talk on how his jet sweep action helps fuel this offense as well as the roots of his fearlessness as a returner — McKenzie once suffered a concussion back in high school that knocked him out.We give McKenzie a chance to elaborate on his Notre Dame decomittment. Our clip from last week, nearing 200K views, seemed to trigger the Fighting Irish a bit. (Yes, McKenzie was told he couldn’t have, uh, sexual relations on campus.) With Georgia ranked No. 1 in the nation, we also look back to McKenzie’s college days, his relationship with Kirby Smart and how dangerous he was at wide receiver. Mel Kiper Jr. once compared his game to Antonio Brown. Finally, we received some fantastic questions from subscribers, including one on Sean McDermott. McKenzie takes it upon himself to loosen his head coach up around One Bills Drive. Thank you everyone for listening and watching this new show at Go Long and feel free to share episodes with a friend. All air right here at GoLongTD.com, as well as Apple, Spotify and YouTube. Live nearby? Hang out with us in real life. Five of these 10 episodes are held at Mister’s Bar and Lanes in East Aurora, N.Y., with the next show slated for Monday, Oct. 25, at 6 p.m. (EST). Go Long subscribers get first dibs on a table — and they go fast! — so be sure to reserve your table today and note in the Open Table comment section that you’re a paid subscriber with your email address to confirm.The remaining live show dates are below: Monday, Oct. 25 (6 p.m.-7 p.m.)Monday, Nov. 1 (6 p.m.-7 p.m.)Monday, Nov. 22 (6 p.m.-7 p.m.)Monday, Jan. 3 (6 p.m.-7 p.m.)Past episodes of The Isaiah McKenzie Show:Ep 1: From Miami Gardens to Orchard Park 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

Anyone watching the Green Bay Packers’ 25-22 overtime win over the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday afternoon needed either two Advils or two IPAs immediately after.Depending on how you process such madness.What a bizarre finish. All that truly matters is that Mason Crosby drilled the 49-yarder to win it and the Packers are 4-1. But on this episode of the Ty & Bob Pod, we try to make sense of it all. Davante Adams continued his weekly annihilation of NFL secondaries, Randall Cobb made the play of the day and what about De’Vondre Campbell? The linebacker signed off the street continues to be the playmaker the Packers desperately need right in the middle of their defense.We dive into Campbell’s surreal background on this episode. (I actually got to know him well in Atlanta for this profile that ran at Bleacher Report.)Campbell did not merely slip through the cracks in the pros to wind up in Green Bay — that’s been the story of his life.* Nobody even wanted Campbell out of high school. He didn’t even get a questionnaire from a Division III school, let alone visit a powerhouse. His three coaches in high school never sent his tape out to colleges, so a 13-sack senior season went virtually unnoticed. His team stunk. He was a lost prospect in the state of Florida.* The only reason he got a shot at a JUCO in Kansas was his performance in a postseason all-star game. * His football career should’ve ended right there in Hutchinson (Kan.) Community College when Campbell suffered a severe — an extremely severe — concussion. A simple conversation with friends would trigger a ringing in his head and, five minutes later, Campbell would forget the conversation entirely.* Campbell missed the entire football season but stayed at Hutchinson because he knew moving back to Fort Myers could mean a life of selling drugs.* And that concussion proved to be a blessing in disguise, giving Campbell three years of eligibility once he got to the University of Minnesota. Of course, once he got to college, he could’ve lost his mother. She suffered a heart attack and needed to be rushed to the hospital. This, after surviving breast cancer earlier in life.All details are on the pod.As always, Bob provides his “Rating the Packers” series right here. Starting around the 17-minute mark, he begins by putting Adams’ unbelievable 2021 season in historical perspective and details how the team’s No. 1 receiver dominated a very good Bengals defense.Just how difficult was Cobb’s reception to set up Crosby’s game-winner? Bob doubts that some of the best receivers in team history would’ve even entered that part of the field. Dean Lowry and Kenny Clark were both excellent up front, again.What’s going on with the kicking operation? Bob breaks it all down to a science. The answer may surprise you. And we dive into our two-part series at Go Long on ex-Packers quarterback Don Majkowski. He’s paying for a lifetime of hits.Thank you, everyone, for making this podcast part of your life. We’d love it if you shared with a friend. Miss a previous episode of the podcast? They are all archived at GoLongTD.com right here.Bob McGinn’s Football Awards (maximum is 5, minimum is one-half)* RECEIVERS: 4 ½* OFFENSIVE LINE: 4* QUARTERBACKS: 4* RUNNING BACKS: 4 ½* DEFENSIVE LINE: 4* LINEBACKERS: 4* DEFENSIVE BACKS: 3* KICKERS: 1* SPECIAL TEAMS: 2* OVERALL: 4STARS OF THE WEEKOne. Davante Adams, WRTwo. Dean Lowry, DLThree. Randall Cobb, WR 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

Take these predictions directly to the bank and do not look back.Our Week 5 Louie LOCKS are in.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices 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

The ascension of both of these teams began with our esteemed co-host Jim Monos and the Bills' decision to trade the No. 10 overall pick to the Kansas City Chiefs in the 2017 draft. Terry Pegula wanted Patrick Mahomes -- as we've covered here -- but those Bills, under Sean McDermott, weren't ready to play a rookie quarterback.Their consolation prize, Josh Allen, wasn't half-bad.Now, Mahomes and Allen rule the AFC. Is Allen ready to take down the 2019 Super Bowl winner? We dig into it all with Matt Miller of the TheDraftScout.com. He knows the Chiefs, and how they're run, as well as anyone.If you'd like, check out our whole newsletter any time at GoLongTD.com.Also, the Isaiah McKenzie Show is up and running! Listen/watch any time at Go Long or download wherever you get your podcasts.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices 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… we’re off.What a fun time at Mister’s Bar and Lanes in East Aurora, NY launching “The Isaiah McKenzie Show” this week. Thrilled to share the show with all of our readers and listeners at Go Long right here.We explained the premise last week, ICYMI. In a sport increasingly watered down by press conferences, the hope is for fans to really get to know one of its most dynamic personalities: Bills receiver/returner Isaiah McKenzie. These 10 episodes should show everyone a side of the game they haven’t seen before. McKenzie is one of a kind, so we’ll dive into it all: The Bills. The league. The world. His surreal background. You can get all episodes via video or audio — whichever you prefer — right here at GoLongTD.com. Both formats are embedded in this post above. Further, you’ll be able to locate the show on Apple, Spotify and our YouTube channel as the files matriculate to those channels. Longform storytelling is always the focus at Go Long and we’ll keep churning out the written word at our regular clip, but I’ve also had a lot of readers tell me they want to plug podcasts into their ears while they’re mowing the lawn, driving to work, changing diapers, etc. Hopefully The Isaiah McKenzie Show, Go Long Podcast and Ty & Bob Pod help accentuate our coverage here. (Note: Keep an eye out for our next big story dropping Friday AM.) Here’s what’s cookin’ on Episode 1 with McKenzie… * The Bills’ current obliteration of opponents. They’re outscoring teams 118-21 the last three weeks. What’s the mood internally with Sean McDermott and all of the players? More importantly, into this rematch with the Kansas City Chiefs, is this a Super Bowl-or-Bust type of season for the Bills?* McKenzie’s unique role in it all. How do you hijack a game when you’re getting the ball a handful of times on “minimum wage?”* His career started in Denver and, honestly, should’ve ended in Denver. A flurry of muffs threatened to ruin McKenzie mentally. He opens up on how he totally refocused when the Bills threw him a life raft in 2018 — with advice everyone can apply to their own lives. * Growing up in Miami Gardens. It was not easy — and we’ll dig into this more throughout the 10 episodes — but McKenzie was sure to have a little fun as a kid, too. Too much fun, actually. One prank pulled on his grandmother is an all-timer… and led to a whupping he’ll never forget.* Struggling in school. He was no fan of class, no. Yet when college football became a real possibility, McKenzie started to shape up.* The, uh, reason McKenzie decommitted from Notre Dame. Don’t miss this. You’ll learn something new about this school today. * His new dog, “Papi,” is in the house at Mister’s.* Your questions. The last 15 minutes of The Isaiah McKenzie Show will always be about you and anything on your mind. McKenzie is asked who his best friend on the team is, his pregame ritual, his role on offense, Cole Beasley and what it’s like returning a punt with a tackler right in his face. (We’ll be sure to pass the mic ‘round next time, too.)Thanks everyone. This will be a lot of fun.Want to see a show in person? Make your reservation via Open Table through the Mister’s website. If you’re a subscriber, you get first dibs, too. (Our other five episodes are via Zoom.)Monday, Oct. 25 (6 p.m.-7 p.m.)Monday, Nov. 1 (6 p.m.-7 p.m.)Monday, Nov. 22 (6 p.m.-7 p.m.)Monday, Jan. 3 (6 p.m.-7 p.m.)If you can’t make a show in-person, be sure to drop any questions for McKenzie to me at [email protected]. And we’d love it if you subscribed to Go Long, right here, to get everything we have to offer: 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

We open the pod by diving deep into Bob McGinn's two-part, 10,000-word epic on the Rise of Brett Favre at Go Long. Subscribers can get access to it all right here. There's been so much written and so much said about Favre, but as we touch upon, Bob found a way to dig up plenty of new material on the old gunslinger.... Favre didn't disappoint in their chat.Speaking of Favre, and his historic Green Bay exit, what a beautiful shot at revenge for Tom Brady and Bill Belichick. They're all saying the right things but you cannot hype this game up enough. While most expect Brady to run away with this, we're not ready to count out Belichick. And what is going on with these rookie quarterbacks? Jim Monos explained why they're all struggling in the Monos Report, and dives deeper into it all on the podcast.I hope you see everyone at the "Isaiah McKenzie Show" Monday night, too! We're launching Oct. 4 at Mister's Bar & Lanes in East Aurora, NY. Reserve your table today -- all details here.Thanks, everyone. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices 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

We supply three "Louie Locks" apiece. BOOK IT.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices 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