MLB's Deadline: Deal Or No Deal? 76ers/Nets Set To Take Off In East? College Basketball's Slaughter Saturday. NHL's Lightning: Under The Radar? Surprising NFL Retirement. Lefty's Sponsors Say Bye!

Another month comes to a close that leads us to a brand new episode #240 delivering everything that's happening in the world of sports. On deck:

(4:12) A couple of housekeeping notes to begin the podcast. First, acknowledging the horrific events that are taking place in Ukraine. Second, on the eve of the podcast's fourth anniversary, I give a shout out to my supporters with a heads up on a couple of changes to the format in the weeks to come.

(7:12) MLB is up against the clock as it tries to hammer down a new collective bargaining agreement by midnight tonight. If not, the start of the baseball season will be delayed. Which side is yours truly on? Will the players blink? How will this play out?

(19:12) The two big stories in the NBA are focused on both the momentum of the Sixers and Nets. No, not just because of their blockbuster trade a few weeks ago, but the early returns of the James Harden/Joel Embiid marriage is going as wonderful as expected. Can this Sixer team rely on how Harden performs in May and June, not February and March? As for Kyrie Irving possibly coming back to start in home games, Kevin Durant about to come off the injured list and the long awaited debut of Ben Simmons, the Nets could look to rebound and get close to the top of the Eastern Conference if all falls right. Plus, I have some chatter on the Suns without Chris Paul. Can Devin Booker be the leader that his team needs in CP3's absence? What about the Lakers? Will they even qualify for the play-in tournament? I wrap up with the disappointment that is the Knicks.

(38:05) A historic day in NCAA Men's Basketball took place on Saturday as seven of the top 10 teams, including the top SIX teams in the nation, all lost. Is it early to tell who'll be the top four seeds in the country come tournament time? Is this year as wide open as we've ever seen in the sport? Is there such thing as a Cinderella story?

(45:53) Are the two time back to back Stanley Cup Champion Tampa Bay Lightning flying under the radar? Sounds crazy, but I'll explain. Also, I'll show some love to Islanders D Zdeno Chara for becoming the all time games played by a defenseman in league history. With the trade deadline just three weeks away, it'll be interesting to see which teams will acquire key pieces to a championship puzzle.

(56:03) There was a surprise retirement announcement over the weekend that Buccaneers Pro Bowl G, Ali Marpet, called it a career after seven seasons in the NFL. Early retirements have played a huge part in the league over the course of the last decade or so. Should this come as a shock to the football fan? I'll also share some sad news as two former NFL offensive players have passed away over the past week (Oilers WR Ken Burrough and Chargers RB Lionel James)

(1:01:34) I have a few words on Phil Mickelson, who was my Zero of last week, as sponsors have severed ties based on his comments from an excerpt of a book that's being released that were derogatory towards the people of Saudi Arabia.

(1:03:35) To close out, my Hero and Zero of the Week.

Please subscribe, leave a rating and post a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, Spotify, Luminary, Amazon Music and iHeartRadio or wherever you get your podcasts.

If you'd like to contribute to the production of the podcast, please visit my Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/TheJAYREELZPodcast

Many thanks for all of your love and support.

Intro/outro music by Cyklonus.

Listen to "MLB's Deadline: Deal Or No Deal? 76ers/Nets Set To Take Off In East? College Basketball's Slaughter Saturday. NHL's Lightning: Under The Rad" on Spreaker.

Sports - ProfessionalJason NazarioFebruary 28, 2022Sports, Sports Talk, Sports Podcast, Podcast, Podcasting, The JAYREELZ Podcast, MLB, Baseball, NBA, Basketball, NHL, Hockey, College Basketball, The Hero and Zero of the WeekComment

MLB's Armageddon Isn't Just Baseball Biggest Problem! NBA's 'Second Half' Peek. Juwan Howard: Suspension Or Expulsion? NHL's Eichel's Return & Impact. Flores Back In NFL With Whom?

With football not part of our sports conscious as it was for the last 23 weeks, what will your friendly sports podcast host talk about? I'll get you through these cold winter weeks and warm your sports heart as Episode #239 delivers what you want, need and then some. On deck:

(4:36) Ladies & gentleman, the time has come. The pomp and circumstance of the NFL is in our rearview mirror, the fall/winter sports are in full effect, but we have officially entered The Sports Dead Zone, Part 1. I'll discuss what that is, and when we'll be out of it.

(7:01) Armageddon continues in the MLB as talks should ratchet up in hopes of a deal being reached between the owners and players. I discuss the three sticking points that's holding up this negotiation, Juan Soto's $350 million dollar offer by the Nationals, but I go deeper by saying what's baseball biggest problem (and what could be done to fix it) even if an agreement comes to pass as early as today. I'll also get into the sentencing of former Angels communications director, Eric Kay, who was responsible in the death of former pitcher, Tyler Skaggs. And Matt Harvey did what while he was a member of the Mets?

(28:24) The NBA All-Star Weekend has come and gone as I didn't peep a second of the festivities. I'll take a look ahead of the 'second half', rather 1/3 of the rest of the regular season. I'll get into some of the buzz coming into and out of the break. (Anthony Davis's health, the Lakers big picture for this season, LeBron James's comments on going back to Cleveland, the Lakers long term prospects post LeBron, what Chris Paul's injury means for the Suns, which teams could go deep in the playoffs and how many teams will be in the discussion for an NBA title?) I'll check in on my NBA over/under numbers to date, which isn't close to what I did in the NFL.

(45:39) Juwan Howard gets into hot water again as his late game skirmish, striking an assistant coach of Wisconsin will get him suspended a couple of games by the NCAA. Should the University of Michigan suspend him for the remainder of the season? Plus, the rest of the college basketball landscape as March Madness is three weeks away.

(51:56) Jack Eichel made his long awaited return to the ice, as he debuted with his new team, the Vegas Golden Knights last Wednesday. He scored his first goal as a Knight in a win over the weekend. Is he the final piece to a championship puzzle? In Pittsburgh, Sidney Crosby reached the lofty 500th goal milestone of his illustrious career. I'll bestow some congratulations on the future Hall of Famer and all time great Penguin.

(58:33) Former Dolphins coach, Brian Flores resurfaces back in the league as he was hired as a defensive assistant/linebackers coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers. Was this a good hire? What is the league thinking about him being back on an NFL sideline? As for college football, the playoff will not expand in the next year or so as many would have hoped. We'll have to wait at least four seasons before a change will be made.

(1:04:38) I'll wrap up with some thoughts about the Winter Olympics and the Daytona 500.

(1:07:41) And to close out, my Hero and Zero of the Week.

Please subscribe, leave a rating and post a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, Spotify, Luminary, Amazon Music and iHeartRadio or wherever you get your podcasts.

If you'd like to contribute to the production of the podcast, please visit my Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/TheJAYREELZPodcast

Many thanks for all of your love and support.

Intro/outro music by Cyklonus.

Listen to "MLB's Armageddon Isn't Just Baseball Biggest Problem! NBA's 'Second Half' Peek. Juwan Howard: Suspension Or Expulsion? NHL's Eichel's Return" on Spreaker.

Ram Tough As Super Win Cements McVay, Stafford Trade & Donald's Legacy. Harden/Simmons Swap & Benefits. NHL's Oilers Wake Up Call. MLB's Spring: On The Clock!

On this day filled with romance, flowers and candy, it's a sports lovefest on this Valentine's Day as Episode #238 has plenty of hearts and cupid arrows (and maybe some black roses) to dish out. On deck:

(4:45) A Super ultra, mega recap of the big game last night as the Rams squeak out a Super Bowl victory in the final moments out at So-Fi Stadium vs. the Bengals. I'll highlight the talk surrounding Sean McVay (the win/his coaching future), Matthew Stafford (cementing the trade to LA/Hall of Fame legacy?) and Aaron Donald (big game production, possible retirement?). As for the Bengals themselves, another bitter Super Bowl loss in their franchise's history, the Logan Wilson 'hold' and a full deep dive of this game. From Odell Beckham Jr.'s injury, the non-call on Tee Higgins's TD catch, the game defining drive by McVay, Stafford and Cooper Kupp, and much more. I'll also touch on the Halftime show (good, not great) the commercials (another Peacock ad?) lackluster 2022 Hall of Fame class, new coaching hires in New Orleans and Houston, more off the field transgressions from players (Alvin Kamara, Adrian Peterson) and is the Kyler Murray/Arizona Cardinal marriage on the rocks?

(48:25) The NBA had an eventful trade deadline with the highlight being the blockbuster between James Harden and Ben Simmons. Which team will benefit from this deal in the short term? Long term? Plus, other deals that were impactful throughout the league.

(1:02:52) The college basketball season will start to pick up as we're less than a month away from Selection Sunday. Auburn will drop out of the top spot in the country as the sport is wide open as to who'll rise to the top come March.

(1:04:59) There were a couple of coaching changes in the NHL, but the big one comes in Edmonton as the Oilers look to get themselves right and have a big postseason run that many expect. Will this be the boost that they need to become a threat out in the West? Also, I'll spend a minute on the Brad Marchand suspension. How does he get away with his repeated actions on the ice?

(1:10:50) As for the MLB, we're still on hold on whether the 2022 season will start on time. What about spring training? Where do we stand as of today? Some sad deaths of former players in the sport (Gerald Williams & Jeremy Giambi) and Trevor Bauer isn't charged for the allegations over rough sexual intercourse with a woman out in California. Will he be suspended by baseball? Will he be back on the Dodgers once the CBA comes to pass?

(1:19:04) And to close out, my Hero and Zero of the Week.

Please subscribe, leave a rating and post a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, Spotify, Luminary, Amazon Music and iHeartRadio or wherever you get your podcasts.

If you'd like to contribute to the production of the podcast, please visit my Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/TheJAYREELZPodcast

Many thanks for all of your love and support.

Intro/outro music by Cyklonus.

Listen to "Ram Tough As Super Win Cements McVay, Stafford Trade & Donald's Legacy. Harden/Simmons Swap & Benefits. NHL's Oilers Wake Up Call. MLB's Spr" on Spreaker.

Super Bowl LVI Storylines, Analysis & Prediction! Plus, 2022 HOF Finalists, Brian Flores & Coaching Hires. Harden For Simmons? Panic Button For Nets? NHL's Second Half. MLB Season In Jeopardy?

Gearing up for a Super Week with the Big Game coming this Sunday and everything else that's happening in sports, I've got you covered as Episode #237 packs a big punch. On deck:

(4:33) I kick off the podcast with a sincere apology for some sloppy 'play' last week as I own up to a few mistakes that took place in Episode #236.

(7:37) With the Super Bowl just six days away, you know what's coming? The Sports Dead Zone #1 is on the horizon. I'll share some thoughts about that and enjoying this upcoming week ahead as we lead into Super Bowl LVI.

(11:41) All of the storylines, key matchups, the point spread, over/under number, the Halftime show, even the commercials are full game during this segment as I get into everything about this Super Bowl between the Los Angeles Rams vs. Cincinnati Bengals, which'll include my prediction of who'll win. I'll also get into the following: the 2022 Hall of Fame Finalists, the retirement of Tom Brady (Is he the GOAT? Is he the greatest athlete of all time?), Brian Flores's lawsuit vs. the NFL, the latest head coaching vacancies, the Rooney Rule and the new name for the Washington Football Team.

(56:32) The NBA trade deadline is upon us. There have been a couple of moves in the past week (in particular Cleveland acquiring Caris LaVert) but the rumblings throughout the league have centered in Brooklyn and Philadelphia as both James Harden and Ben Simmons may be shipped between now and Thursday. It's quite possible they may be traded for each other! Is there potential for a deal between the two teams? Is there a fit for each player in their possible new destination? I'll have the low down of the pros and cons of each player if a trade is made between the Sixers and Nets. Also, why the Nets may not trade Harden by the deadline? And is it time to push the panic button if you're Steve Nash & co.?

(1:10:33) The NHL looks to get back on track to make up games that were lost in the first half due to COVID. I'll have a synopsis of some surprises (i.e. Rangers & Kings) and disappointments (i.e. Oilers & Islanders) and look ahead to the second half as we're past the All Star Break heading into the deeper part of the schedule. To wrap up, the Winter Classic in 2023 will be hosted in a familiar place. Hint: it'll be in a baseball stadium in the Northeast.

(1:20:27) Armageddon has come in MLB as the owners and players will be in a complete royal rumble to hammer out a deal as spring training isn't too far away. Is it too early to say that the season is in jeopardy? Baseball is playing with fire at the moment as they avoid being obliterated off of the sports map. I'll explain why.

(1:30:40) I'll have a quick update of the college basketball scene as Auburn is still #1 in the country.

(1:31:53) In closing, my Hero and Zero of the Week.

Please subscribe, leave a rating and post a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, Spotify, Luminary, Amazon Music and iHeartRadio or wherever you get your podcasts.

If you'd like to contribute to the production of the podcast, please visit my Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/TheJAYREELZPodcast

Many thanks for all of your love and support.

Intro/outro music by Cyklonus.

Listen to "Super Bowl LVI Storylines, Analysis & Prediction! Plus, 2022 HOF Finalists, Brian Flores & Coaching Hires. Harden For Simmons? Panic Button" on Spreaker.

Roaring Bengals/Battering Rams In Super Matchup! NFL Coaching Hires. Big Ben Retires. What About Brady? Harden Unhappy In BK? NHL's Iron Man. Ortiz HOF. No For Bonds/Clemens. Nadal's 21st Record Slam

A Super recap of Championship Sunday in the NFL and lots more that the sports universe has to offer as Episode #236 has chock full of analysis, thoughts and opinions. On deck:

(6:15) The stage is set for Super Bowl LVI as the surging, upstart Cincinnati Bengals defeat the reigning AFC Champion Kansas City Chiefs as they come back from an 18 point deficit to punch their ticket to Los Angeles in two weeks. As for the Rams, they won't have to get on an airplane and can sleep in their own beds as they exorcised some demons and beat the San Francisco 49ers. They'll be in familiar surroundings as they'll play the game in the building that they occupy at So-Fi Stadium. I'll dissect both of these conference title games. The unflappable Joe Burrow. The Bengals stifling second half defense. A bitter Chiefs loss. A hit on Patrick Mahomes legacy. Poor coaching decisions by Andy Reid/Eric Bieniemy. Another great showing by Matthew Stafford. Awful challenges by coach Sean McVay. The non interception by Jaquiski Tartt. Aaron Donald gets a pass (and saves the day in the process) Another gut punch of a Niner playoff loss over the past decade. I'll get into some of the early Super Bowl storylines, more Tony Romo broadcasting blunders, head coaching hires throughout the league and why haven't there been any black coaches promoted to run these teams? Also, some words on the retirement of Ben Roethlisberger, but what about Tom Brady? Word came out over the weekend that he's s

(58:07) Is there trouble percolating in Brooklyn as James Harden is reportedly unhappy with the head coach and the Kyrie Irving situation? Could a trade be forthcoming? What about the ongoing saga with disgruntled Sixers All-Star guard Ben Simmons? I'll take a trip around the Association and the Lakers dysfunction

(1:06:52) The NHL is looking to exhale as the All-Star Break in Vegas is on the horizon. They'll use what was the Olympic break to make up these lost games in the first half of the season due to the coronavirus. There's a new NHL Iron Man as Flyers defenseman, Keith Yandle surpasses Doug Jarvis as the all time leader in consecutive games played. There is someone in the league who is not too far behind. Could this record be on the verge of being broken sooner than we thought? I'll see what else is happening on the ice (including the Oilers controversial signing of forward, Evander Kane) in each conference.

(1:15:42) Rafael Nadal has become the all time winningest men's Grand Slam player with 21 victories as he wins his second Australian Open. Can he extend his record lead over his contemporaries in Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer as his favorite Slam tournament (French Open) is on deck?

(1:20:55) David Ortiz was elected to the Hall of Fame by the Baseball Writers of America. Is he deserving of this achievement with the report of him using performance enhancing drugs in the past? This is the end of Barry Bonds and Roger Clemens being on the ballot. Should those two have been voted in as well? Plus, an update of the latest labor strife between the players and owners.

(1:26:26) Does anybody really care about the Winter Olympics which is set to start this coming Thursday?

(1:28:23) To wrap up, my Hero and Zero of the Week. CORRECTION: In discussing my Hero of the Week, I made a reference to New Orleans Pelicans guard as Jose Alvarez. My apologies, but it's Jose Alvarado.

Please subscribe, leave a rating and post a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, Spotify, Luminary, Amazon Music and iHeartRadio or wherever you get your podcasts.

If you'd like to contribute to the production of the podcast, please visit my Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/TheJAYREELZPodcast

Many thanks for all of your love and support.

Intro/outro music by Cyklonus.

Listen to "Roaring Bengals/Battering Rams In Super Matchup! NFL Coaching Hires. Big Ben Retires. What About Brady? Harden Unhappy In BK? NHL's Iron Man" on Spreaker.

BUF-KC Classic Highlights Epic NFL Divisional Round. The End For Brady/Rodgers? AFC/NFC Title Preview. Remembering Clark Gillies. Nadal's Path To 21st Slam. Ngannou's MMA Champ

Get ready for an action packed, fast paced, sports podcast party as Episode #235 delivers that and then some with all that's taking place in the world of competition. On deck:

(4:25) The NFL experienced the best Divisional Round in the history of the playoffs, where three of the four teams won on the road in the final seconds and the fourth was a game for the ages!

First up, was the horror show of coaching and quarterbacking by Mike Vrabel & Ryan Tannehill of the Tennessee Titans as they were upset at home by the cool, calm and collected Joe Burrow and the Cincinnati Bengals.

Next, was the Green Bay Packers imploding at home as Aaron Rodgers couldn't deliver in the clutch, same for their special teams as the 49ers escape out of Lambeau Field with a big time road victory by their stout defense and some key throws by QB, Jimmy Garoppolo. What's next for Aaron Rodgers? Is this it for him in Green Bay?

The Rams jumped out to a big lead in Tampa, but slowly and surely gave it back due to a few costly turnovers to draw the Buccaneers even. In the end, it was Matthew Stafford's connection to his safety blanket, Cooper Kupp as they marched down the field as time was expiring and hit the go ahead field goal at the final gun. So the defending champions are dethroned as Stafford outplayed Brady, the Bucs defense was awful and now the questions will arise...is this is for Tom Brady?

Just when we thought the three games prior were tough acts to follow, the Bills & Chiefs played an epic, classic playoff game to top them all. It was a near flawless game with only four penalties flagged, zero turnovers, A+ play from both QB's (Josh Allen & Patrick Mahomes) lead changes late in the game, a botched kickoff by Buffalo with :13 seconds left, another final second field goal in regulation. Then the clincher as the Chiefs win it with a TD in OT, which brings up an interesting topic...should both teams get the ball in OT no matter what happens? KC's grit and talent rises to the top. As for the Bills, as heroic as Josh Allen and WR Gabriel Davis was, a long offseason of 'what if's' will be replayed over and over as they were thisclose from hosting the AFC Title Game in their building.

I'll preview both Conference Championship Games, the intrigue and storylines of the 49ers-Rams. Why I don't like the Bengals this time around vs. KC? What would be the best possible Super Bowl matchup be? And some off the field news regarding personnel on some teams throughout the league.

(1:07:06) The Bulls have suffered a couple of injuries to their roster as they lose their standing as the top dog in the East, but the Association is rather quiet as we approach the end of January.

(1:08:52) The same could be said in college basketball as Gonzaga still has the #1 seed in the country as there were no major upsets in the sport over the past week. It's looking as if we're going to have a wide open March Madness which isn't for another month and a half.

(1:09:41) Sadly, I'll remember one of the great New York Islander players who passed away too soon as Clark Gillies died this past Friday. I'll go over how tough and what type of player he was, what he meant to this historic Islander team and the mark he left on those he touched after his playing days were over. Also, the schedule makers have revamped the games that were lost in the early part of the year due to COVID, as well as, taking a look to catch up on what's happening out on the ice.

(1:16:11) The players will step in on Monday (today) and propose their deal to the owners as they try their best to get something done with pitchers and catchers scheduled to report in three weeks. Is there hope for any progress as February nears? MLB did one smart thing. Not having the Rays split their seasons with the city of Montreal which would've been disastrous for the sport.

(1:19:58) I'll have the latest update with what's going on in the Australian Open. It looks like the #1 seed in Ash Barty on the women's side is the favorite to win it all at the moment. Rafael Nadal is still alive on the men's side. Does he have a chance to get to his 21st career Grand Slam win?

(1:22:02) I'll briefly touch on the heavyweight MMA bout between Francis Ngannou vs. Cyril Gane as Ngannou unifies the UFC heavyweight title. Did the match live up to the hype?

(1:23:55) In closing, my Hero and Zero of the Week.

Please subscribe, leave a rating and post a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, Spotify, Luminary, Amazon Music and iHeartRadio or wherever you get your podcasts.

If you'd like to contribute to the production of the podcast, please visit my Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/TheJAYREELZPodcast

Many thanks for all of your love and support.

Intro/outro music by Cyklonus.

Listen to "BUF-KC Classic Highlights Epic NFL Divisional Round. The End For Brady/Rodgers? AFC/NFC Title Preview. Remembering Clark Gillies. Nadal's Pa" on Spreaker.

Who Dey! Bengals Euphoria With Podcaster Jai Shields & Cincinnati Native Risa Saslow On Their Diehard Fandom, Wild Card Win & Expectations vs. The Titans

Dropping a late surprise podcast on your device as Episode 234 has not one, but TWO special guests.

Joining me to discuss the excitement and euphoria are two diehard Cincinnati Bengals fans as they’re set to kick off the Divisional Round of the NFL Playoffs. First up, is young podcaster Jai Shields. (5:39) This is his second appearance on the pod (for more about Jai, check out Episode 145 in the archives) as he shares his thoughts of witnessing his first ever Bengal playoff win, his recollection of the very first playoff game at the age of seven and what are the keys to the Bengals advancing to the AFC Championship Game?

Next up, is my longtime friend and former resident of the Queen City, Risa Saslow, (50:31) as she delves into an interesting story about her birthday and Super Bowl XXIII, being a long suffering fan and what her expectations are in the second round vs. the Titans? What better way than to have two perspectives from opposite ends of the spectrum as they detail what it’s like to root for a team that’ s been down for so long, that’s now on the rise in the NFL.

You can follow Jai on Twitter at: https://twitter.com/TheJShield?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor

On Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/thejshield/

For more on Jai’s podcast, go to: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/imma-tell-it-like-it-t-i-is-with-jai-shields/id1435730648

Please subscribe, leave a rating and post a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, Spotify, Luminary, Amazon Music and iHeartRadio or wherever you get your podcasts.

If you'd like to contribute to the production of the podcast, please visit my Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/TheJAYREELZPodcast

Many thanks for all of your love and support.

Intro/outro music by Cyklonus. Interlude music by Bensound.

Listen to "Who Dey! Bengals Euphoria With Podcaster Jai Shields & Cincinnati Native Risa Saslow On Their Diehard Fandom, Wild Card Win & Expectations v" on Spreaker.

Sports - ProfessionalJason NazarioJanuary 21, 2022Podcast, Podcasting, Sports, Sports Talk, Sports Podcast, The JAYREELZ Podcast, Jai Shields, NFL, Football, Cincinnati Bengals, NFL PlayoffsComment

NFL Super Wild Card Flop! NBA First Half Surprises & Disappointments. Baylor Bails From #1 Seed. Bruins Rolling In NHL East. Novak Sent Packing. MLB Negotiations At Standstill?

Fasten your seatbelts, because your trusted little sports podcast host comes out firing with some spicy hot takes as Episode #233 has plenty of sizzle! On deck:

(4:35) NFL Super Wild Card Weekend is in the books, but it was anything but super as your boy HAS LOTS to rail against how these games weren't intriguing or exciting. I'll get into the hot Bengal offense, the overrated Patriots defense, how Jalen Hurts isn't the answer in Philadelphia? How the Cowboys were at fault on the final drive and not the officials? Why the Chiefs are the team to beat in the AFC? I'll look ahead to the Divisional Round matchups and the Wild Card finale (i.e. pressure on Ram QB, Matthew Stafford) in LA between the Cardinals-Rams. I'll also share my thoughts on the post Black Monday firings of head coaches in the league (i.e. Giants and Texans)

(41:37) The NBA regular season has surpassed the halfway point of their schedule and there have been plenty of surprises and disappointments to date. I'll break down who's hot (i.e. Cavaliers, Grizzlies) and who's not (i.e. Lakers, Hawks) I also like how there's been some competitive balance throughout the league which has been refreshing unlike years past. I'll go through both conferences and keep you abreast on some of the big injuries (Bulls, Zach LaVine and Nets, Kevin Durant) and how Durant's absence could affect the Nets at the top of the crowded Eastern Conference? Plus, I have to revisit and reinforce my displeasure of the play in tournament involving the 7-10 seeds in the East & West.

(54:54) Baylor takes a double hit as they finally lost their first game of the year, but then followed that up with another loss (both at home, and in historic fashion) in the same week. They lose their grip at the #1 seed in the country, but will this affect them long term as March Madness awaits?

(57:35) The NHL keeps slogging through their schedule with tons of games that need to be made up, but the big stories coming from the ice are the returns of Lightning forward, Nikita Kucherov, Jack Eichel of the Golden Knights and Bruins goaltender, Tuukka Rask as they've been on fire as they make their way toward the top of the East.

(1:03:48) The Novak Djokovic saga didn't end well for the three time defending and nine time overall Australian Open champion. I'll put that situation to rest, but does this kill any buzz of the first Grand Slam of the year? There are plenty of interesting storylines even without the likes of Roger Federer, Serena and Venus Williams participating in the tournament down under.

(1:09:35) With pitchers and catchers on schedule to report four weeks from today (i.e. barring a Collective Bargaining Agreement finalized by the owners and players), all is quiet on the MLB front as discussions are at a standstill with no agreement in sight. When can we possibly expect some progress?

(1:12:45) In closing, my Hero and Zero of the Week.

Please subscribe, leave a rating and post a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, Spotify, Luminary, Amazon Music and iHeartRadio or wherever you get your podcasts.

If you'd like to contribute to the production of the podcast, please visit my Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/TheJAYREELZPodcast

Many thanks for all of your love and support.

Intro/outro music by Cyklonus.

Listen to "NFL Super Wild Card Flop! NBA First Half Surprises & Disappointments. Baylor Bails From #1 Seed. Bruins Rolling In NHL East. Novak Sent Pack" on Spreaker.

Epic NFL Week 18 Finale! Playoff Storylines & Super Wild Card Preview! Can Bulldogs Slay The Tide? Kyrie & Klay Returns! Are BK & GS Favorites? Novak No-Visa?

The sports New Year is off to a flying start as I'll be sure to fulfill your appetite and more as Episode #232 is served. On deck:

(4:52) The NFL season FINALLY concluded after a laborious and not as exciting campaign, but Week 18 did not disappoint as I highlight the winners (San Francisco, Pittsburgh & yours truly. I explain) and losers (Indianapolis & LA Chargers). Today is Black Monday throughout the league for coaches losing their jobs. I'll share who got the pink slip, who should be dismissed and a shocker down in Miami as Brian Flores gets the axe. There are a few juicy playoff storylines that I'll divulge as the chase for the Vince Lombardi Trophy begins. I'll preview all of the Super Wild Card Games this upcoming weekend, with predictions to get you ready for the postseason.

(51:48) A national champion will be crowned in college football as Georgia vs. Alabama meet yet again in a title setting. Will the Bulldogs come to slay the Alabama dragon?

(59:38) A couple of debuts by some former NBA All-Stars that will have a major say in how far each of their teams will go this year. Kyrie Irving had a nice opening game in Indiana as he re-builds camaraderie with his teammates in Brooklyn. But the bigger story was what took place in San Francisco as Warriors guard Klay Thompson returned for the first time in over two and a half years. Is he the final piece to put the Dubs over the top in the West? Also, should we take the Memphis Grizzlies and Ja Morant seriously? I'll sprinkle in the latest in college basketball as both Duke and Kansas lost last week, which'll drop them down in the polls, while Baylor still resides as the #1 team in the country.

(1:11:00) As the Australian Open is on the horizon, defending champion Novak Djokovic has been in a brouhaha with the authorities regarding entry into the country with a valid visa. Who was in the wrong during this process?

(1:15:12) There was a low key retirement that didn't get much publicity in the MLB a week or so ago. And there goes Mets owner, Steve Cohen again. They end up hiring a hitting coach away from their crosstown rivals, the Yankees. How did this go down? Is this a shot fired across the bow to their nemesis in the Bronx?

(1:19:58) More games are postponing and not a lot of games that are being rescheduled at the moment. That's life in the NHL at this point of their season. I'll zip through what's happening on the ice as I make the turn to close out with...

(1:24:05) ...my Hero and Zero of the Week.

Please subscribe, leave a rating and post a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, Spotify, Luminary, Amazon Music and iHeartRadio or wherever you get your podcasts.

If you'd like to contribute to the production of the podcast, please visit my Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/TheJAYREELZPodcast

Many thanks for all of your love and support.

Intro/outro music by Cyklonus.

Listen to "Epic NFL Week 18 Finale! Playoff Storylines & Super Wild Card Preview! Can Bulldogs Slay The Tide? Kyrie & Klay Returns! Are BK & GS Favorit" on Spreaker.

NFL Sleepwalks Into Final Week. 'Bama & Bulldogs Cakewalk To Rematch. Nets 'Attitude Adjustment'? NHL's 'Frozen' Classic Highlights Rough Stretch

Storming into 2022 with the same passion and fire of 2021 and beyond, delivering all that's happening in the world of sports as Episode #231 is ready to set your earbuds or speakers ablaze. On deck:

(3:50) The NFL season is just a week away from concluding, (Thank goodness! Don't worry, I'll explain) this 'biggest year ever' hasn't lived up to the billing as I'll get into my winners (Arizona & Las Vegas) and losers (Miami & Antonio Brown. A lot to unpack here, but I'm taking a different stance than the usual talking heads) of Week 17. I'll also discuss a bit of the following: the development of Jaguars QB, Trevor Lawrence. The Rams getting out of Baltimore with a huge win to move up in the NFC. The Chiefs fall to the surging Bengals. I'll get into a not so exciting Week 18 schedule and all of the up to the minute playoff possibilities in both conferences. I'll also spend a moment on the recent passings of legendary coach/broadcaster, John Madden (Plus, an interesting encounter that I had with him several years ago.) And former Broncos, Giants and Falcons coach, Dan Reeves.

(48:05) The College Football Playoff did not live up to expectations as both games were duds. Cincinnati didn't embarrass themselves but were no match for Alabama, while Georgia steamrolled over Michigan to set up another rematch between the Crimson Tide and Bulldogs. I'll have a thought or two on the storylines of the National Championship Game. Will Georgia exorcise the Alabama demons and defeats of the past.

(55:23) The Association is acting like a slow cook crock pot, while the Bulls have heated up with a seven game winning streak to the top spot of the Eastern Conference. The Nets have stubbed their toe recently due to some poor performances to where they need an 'attitude adjustment'. Is there truth to that? The Cavaliers lose point guard, Ricky Rubio to an ACL injury. They bring in former Laker, Rajon Rondo to fill his role. Is this a blessing? Or a curse for a young Cavs team? Also, the NBA suffers another loss with one of their great players as Sam Jones passed away over the weekend as we reflect on his life and career.

(1:04:04) All is quiet on the college basketball front as Baylor still resides at the top of the rankings for a fourth straight week.

(1:04:37) The Winter Classic was in full effect Saturday night in Minneapolis as the temperature was six below zero from the start as the Blues beat the Wild for their league's annual event to kick off the year. Other than that, teams are still trying to recover from a week off due to COVID interfering with the schedule. For the most part, things are in catch up mode as they look forward to making up these games over the 'Olympic break'.

(1:08:24) To wrap up, I'll have my Hero and Zero of the Week.

Please subscribe, leave a rating and post a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, Spotify, Luminary, Amazon Music and iHeartRadio or wherever you get your podcasts.

If you'd like to contribute to the production of the podcast, please visit my Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/TheJAYREELZPodcast

Many thanks for all of your love and support.

Intro/outro music by Cyklonus.

Listen to "NFL Sleepwalks Into Final Week. 'Bama & Bulldogs Cakewalk To Rematch. Nets 'Attitude Adjustment'? NHL's 'Frozen' Classic Highlights Rough St" on Spreaker.

NFL's Jigsaw Playoff Picture Puzzle/WK 16 Winners & Losers. College Football Semifinal Preview. Is The Laker Experiment Toast? NHL's Wise Moves To Save Their Season? A Final Note From Me To You!

As Santa is back at the North Pole, all of the gifts are unwrapped, Christmas dinner and leftovers have been consumed, so now it's time to get into who's been naughty and nice in the sports world as the final podcast of the year ensues as Episode #230 is primed to be an entertaining one. On deck:

(5:27) The NFL season is coming down to the homestretch as this extended season is still three weeks away from the playoffs. For now, I'll go through my winners (Buffalo & Cincinnati) and losers (LA Chargers & Seattle) of Week 16. Two teams that I did not buy into the hype (i.e. San Francisco & New England) that many people have jumped on their bandwagon, suffered big losses on Sunday. Is Baker Mayfield worth franchise QB money in Cleveland? Are the Browns still in contention to win the AFC North? NOTE: Baltimore does need to lose one of their last two, on top of Cincinnati losing to KC on Sunday, in order for the Browns to win the division. Can the Cardinals gain any momentum as they're reeling in the NFC? I'll also touch on the resurging Raiders, Joe Judge and the dreadful Giants, dissect a log jam of an AFC playoff race and an NFC that's taking shape, but with lots to still be determined as I look ahead to the Week 17 schedule.

(41:38) I'll set my sights on the College Football Playoff semifinals come Friday. I'll preview both Cincinnati vs. Alabama and Georgia vs. Michigan. Can the Bearcats stack up against the almighty Crimson Tide? What about Georgia having to overcome the sting of an SEC Championship loss to play against the magic carpet ride and pixie dust of the Wolverines? I'll get into how both games may play out as they'll set the stage for the National Title Game on January 10th.

(50:19) The big story in the Association is the floundering of the Los Angeles Lakers as they're in the midst of a five game losing streak, with a record of 16-18, will they ever get their season back on track? The Clippers will lose Paul George, again, for an extended period of time due to a UCL strain. And an in-season tournament that could be implemented next year? Is this a gimmick? Is it legit?

(59:19) The NHL had to pause their season this past week due to players and teams in the COVID protocol, but with the Winter Classic on Saturday set to be played in Minneapolis, is it still a go? Also, the players will forgo the upcoming Olympics to make up games that were lost due to the pandemic. In a similar move to what the NBA did last week, they've increased the rosters to replenish rosters to protect themselves of potentially cancelling more games down the road.

(1:02:34) Baylor is still your #1 team in the country in college basketball for the third week straight as they've shown no hangover from winning the National Championship this past April.

(1:04:15) All is quiet on the MLB players and owners front as talks of a collective bargaining agreement have stalled. When will we see both parties reconnect?

(1:04:51) Of course, I'll have my Hero & Zero of the Week.

(1:07:17) I'll wrap up the final episode of the year with a tremendous THANK YOU to all of the listeners and followers who support the podcast. I plan to take this endeavor to greater heights in 2022. I appreciate you all for sticking with me as I embark on my fourth year of hosting and producing the best sports podcast out there on a weekly basis.

Please subscribe, leave a rating and post a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, Spotify, Luminary, Amazon Music and iHeartRadio or wherever you get your podcasts.

If you'd like to contribute to the production of the podcast, please visit my Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/TheJAYREELZPodcast

Many thanks for all of your love and support.

Intro/outro music by Cyklonus.

Listen to "NFL's Jigsaw Playoff Picture Puzzle/WK 16 Winners & Losers. College Football Semifinal Preview. Is The Laker Experiment Toast? NHL's Wise Mo" on Spreaker.

COVID's Latest Impact! AFC/NFC Muddled Playoff Picture, WK 15 Winners & Losers. Kyrie's Return: Plus Or Minus? Curry's '3' Record Over The Top? NHL Scheduling Nightmare. Mets Get Their Man!

The holiday season is upon us! As we gear up for another Christmas, you know I plan to share who’s been naughty and nice in the sports world as Episode #229 packs plenty of spirit, cheers and jeers. On deck:

(5:43) In the midst of COVID craziness that's sweeping the nation once again, the NFL continues to plug along as they set their sights on finishing the 2021 season. I list my winners (Colts, Dolphins) and losers (Cardinals, Buccaneers) of Week 15, as well as, the Titans early Christmas gift to the Steelers (and their playoff hopes still have a pulse) a jam at the top of the AFC North, discuss some critical Week 16 matchups and bring you up to speed on the latest playoff standings and scenarios in the AFC & NFC. I'll cap off the NFL segment writing the epitaph of Urban Meyer's coaching career in Jacksonville.

(47:42) The Brooklyn Nets made a surprise announcement last week as they've shifted gears and will bring back point guard, Kyrie Irving to the team. Will there be any consequences upon his return? Or any backlash down the road between he and the organization? I'll share my two cents on this. Also, replacement players in the league? You read right! Due to rising cases of COVID and depletion of rosters, the NBA is instituting this for the near future. Will the quality of play possibly suffer or be compromised because of it? We witnessed the big achievement of Stephen Curry becoming the all time three point shooter in regular season history. Was the celebration over the top or a bit too much? I'll go over the Christmas Day schedule which may not be as compelling due to COVID wreaking havoc throughout the league. Anthony Davis's recent injury and how that doesn't bode well for the Lakers long term (i.e. championship aspirations), the return of Klay Thompson and much more.

(1:07:11) COVID has ravaged the NHL as several teams schedules have been put to a halt until after the Christmas weekend. How will the league reschedule these games, especially with a Winter Olympics on the horizon in February? Is there a scenario where a bubble could be incorporated?

(1:13:22) The New York Mets finally get their man to manage the ballclub as Buck Showalter will lead the franchise for the next three years. Is he the final piece to their championship puzzle? And talks between the players and the union in the battle of coming to a new collective bargaining agreement?

(1:19:18) Jake Paul KO's Tyron Woodley in a boxing match on Saturday night. Is this something that is worth getting into?

(1:19:55) As always, in closing, my Hero and Zero of the Week.

Please subscribe, leave a rating and post a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, Spotify, Luminary, Amazon Music and iHeartRadio or wherever you get your podcasts.

If you'd like to contribute to the production of the podcast, please visit my Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/TheJAYREELZPodcast

Many thanks for all of your love and support.

Intro/outro music by Cyklonus.

Listen to "COVID's Latest Impact! AFC/NFC Muddled Playoff Picture, WK 15 Winners & Losers. Kyrie's Return: Plus Or Minus? Curry's '3' Record Over The T" on Spreaker.

Sports - ProfessionalJason NazarioDecember 20, 2021Sports, Sports Talk, Sports Podcast, Podcast, Podcasting, The JAYREELZ Podcast, NFL, Football, Coronavirus, COVID, NBA, Basketball, College Basketball, NHL, Hockey, MLB, BaseballComment

AFC/NFC Playoff Seeding Log Jam, Blazers/Lillard Parting Ways? Ben Simmons Too? NHL Coyotes Checking Out? New #1 In College Basketball. New Mets Manager Should Be? Pena Dethrones Nunes In Slugfest

I'm sending out some early sports holiday cheer (and jeers) as Episode #228 delivers nothing but unbiased and opinionated chatter to keep you entertained throughout. On deck:

(5:35) Get ready for the homestretch in the NFL as we're down to the final four games of the regular season. The bottom of the AFC (five 7-6 teams) & NFC (five 6-7 teams) playoff pictures are a jumbled mess at the moment. I'll assess where we're at in both conferences and where we may be possibly going forward as I'll get into my winners (Tampa Bay & Cleveland) and losers (Washington & Cincinnati) of Week 14. I'll also take a peek into the Week 15 schedule with an enormous matchup on Thursday night (Chiefs-Chargers) our first set of Saturday games (Raiders-Browns, Patriots-Colts) some key games on Sunday and a tribute to former Broncos/Texans and Jets WR Demaryius Thomas, who passed away on Thursday at the age of 33.

(37:03) I'll acknowledge the final regular season game of the college football season (Army-Navy). I make no bones about how all of the bowl games (minus the college football playoff semifinals) doesn't interest me. No surprise as to who the Heisman Trophy winner is (Alabama QB, Bryce Young) but Michigan coach, Jim Harbaugh, has a bold prediction for one of his players and Heisman Trophy finalist, Aiden Hutchinson for next year's NFL Draft.

(39:53) The NBA draws near to its' Christmas Day schedule, but there's a caveat that can't go understated. I'll explain. The Portland Trail Blazers have been in the news with a fired GM, their second best player (CJ McCollum) out with a collapsed lung, but the big story is perennial All-Star guard, Damien Lillard possibly looking for the exits and wanting out of Portland? There have been talks percolating for Sixers disgruntled guard, Ben Simmons as he's being dangled for potential offers from other clubs. But this is a case, where he's an 'untouchable' in reverse. The Bulls have TEN players in health and safety protocols. Will the league step in to postpone their games? Steph Curry is thisclose to becoming the all time three point regular season shooting record held by Ray Allen. Will we ever see Pelicans forward, Zion Williamson, on the court this year? I'll take a trip around the Association to keep you up to date on what's going on throughout the hardwood.

(57:47) The Calgary Flames have been the latest team in the NHL to be affected by a COVID outbreak as three of their games have been postponed. But in a strange and weird twist, the Arizona Coyotes look like a team that has already checked out from being in operation based on their behavior by not paying the bills? And the commissioner, Gary Bettman, has stated that they're not threatening to relocate! Really? I'll share my thoughts on that, as well as, goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury winning his 500th victory last week. Is he a lock Hall of Famer? I'll skate around the league to inform you on the latest that's happening on the ice.

(1:08:39) A new #1 in college basketball as we'll have a different top ranked team to lead the nation after Purdue loses to Rutgers in stunning fashion last week. Baylor is now the new #1 in the sport. Will it last for at least a week?

(1:10:36) The Mets are still searching for a new manager, but I'll tell you who SHOULD be the guy to lead this team. AND WHY are they interviewing more unknown candidates?

(1:14:16) Tiger Woods coming back to the course sooner than we thought? He'll be participating in the PNC this coming weekend with his son, Charlie. Should there be any expectations or comparisons from his young boy as the spotlight will be squarely be on him and his famous dad this weekend?

(1:17:08) A shocking upset in the UFC over the weekend as Julianna Pena wins in a slugfest over Amanda Nunes in a bantamweight title fight. Will there be a rematch? A trilogy?

(1:20:13) To wrap up, my Hero and Zero of the Week.

Please subscribe, leave a rating and post a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, Spotify, Luminary, Amazon Music and iHeartRadio or wherever you get your podcasts.

If you'd like to contribute to the production of the podcast, please visit my Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/TheJAYREELZPodcast

Many thanks for all of your love and support.

Intro/outro music by Cyklonus.

Listen to "AFC/NFC Playoff Seeding Log Jam, Blazers/Lillard Parting Ways? Ben Simmons Too? NHL Coyotes Checking Out? New #1 In College Basketball. New" on Spreaker.

Sports - ProfessionalJason NazarioDecember 13, 2021Sports, Sports Talk, Sports Podcast, Podcast, Podcasting, The JAYREELZ Podcast, NFL, Football, College Football, NBA, Basketball, College Basketball, NHL, Hockey, UFC, MLB, BaseballComment

Roll Tide! College Football Playoff Storylines. Loaded AFC, Week 12 Winners & Losers. MLB Armageddon Has Begun. Suns Peak at 18! Tiger's Return?

December is off to a tremendous sports start and here to share my thoughts, opinions and analysis of it all as Episode #227 is full of passion and fire that you won't hear anywhere else. On deck:

(5:40) The end of a very intriguing college football regular season came to a close where it's a movie that we've seen plenty over the years. The Alabama Crimson Tide are riding high from their dismantling of the Georgia Bulldogs in the SEC Championship Game. What does this victory mean for this 'Bama team? What about the psyche of Georgia? I'll recap this game, Oklahoma State's brutal loss to Baylor, Michigan's thrashing of Iowa and Cincinnati keeping their unbeaten season alive as I'll showcase each of the Final Four teams storylines as we sit and wait for the college football playoff on New Year's Eve. Lastly, I'll chime in on some of the coaching changes that took place (i.e. USC, LSU & Oklahoma) and was it right for Lincoln Riley and Brian Kelly to leave their teams hanging for greener pastures?

(37:44) Week 13 in the NFL was, ehhhh! You had a couple of fantastic finishes in Detroit and Pittsburgh, but not a lot of shocks or surprises as I discuss my winners (Chargers & Lions) and losers (49ers & Broncos) of the week. I'll preview how important of a Monday night game it is for the Buffalo Bills as they face off vs. New England. I'll share my thoughts on a jam packed AFC as 12 teams are still alive in the playoff race. I'll get into how rabid yours truly gets when watching a Ravens-Steelers game and how that game came down to the wire. Of course, I'll look ahead into Week 14 as there are some good matchups on the schedule as we inch closer to the conclusion of the regular season.

(1:08:16) The MLB offseason has been put on ice as the collective bargaining agreement has expired. What now? What is the issue between the players and owners? Are the owners hypocrites for doling out huge deals to date, when they're trying to cut costs? I'll get into it all, even come up with a possible timeframe for when this should be done if they plan on getting next season started on time AND what does this mean for players like Freddie Freeman, Carlos Correa, Trevor Story, Kris Bryant who haven't signed as of yet?

(37:44) Week 13 in the NFL was, ehhhh! You had a couple of fantastic finishes in Detroit and Pittsburgh, but not a lot of shocks or surprises as I discuss my winners (Chargers & Lions) and losers (49ers & Broncos) of the week. I'll preview how important of a Monday night game it is for the Buffalo Bills as they face off vs. New England. I'll share my thoughts on a jam packed AFC as 12 teams are still alive in the playoff race. I'll get into how rabid yours truly gets when watching a Ravens-Steelers game and how that game came down to the wire. Of course, I'll look ahead into Week 14 as there are some good matchups on the schedule as we inch closer to the conclusion of the regular season.

(1:08:16) The MLB offseason has been put on ice as the collective bargaining agreement has expired. What now? What is the issue between the players and owners? Are the owners hypocrites for doling out huge deals to date, when they're trying to cut costs? I'll get into it all, even come up with a possible timeframe for when this should be done if they plan on getting next season started on time AND what does this mean for players like Freddie Freeman, Carlos Correa, Trevor Story, Kris Bryant who haven't signed as of yet?

(1:19:25) The Phoenix Suns were shining bright as they were able to pull off an 18 game winning streak. No NBA Finals hangover for Chris Paul & company. Can they continue to put the pressure and threaten the Warriors and get back to another Finals appearance? And what happened to the Oklahoma City Thunder? They lost by how many to a Ja Morant-less Memphis Grizzlies team? You know I've got a couple of things to say about this. There been a couple of key injuries (i.e. Damian Lillard & Bam Adebayo) to the Blazers and Heat. Also, have the Knicks started to bottom out after a 5-1 start?

(1:25:53) There's a new #1 in college basketball as Duke loses to Ohio State last week, so the Purdue Boilermakers step up to the top spot in a pretty topsy turvy start to the college basketball season.

(1:27:40) A couple of coaches have walked the plank in the NHL in Vancouver & Philadelphia. (i.e. Travis Green & Alain Vigneault) and the Islander losing streak (11) has reached new lows. Is it too late for them to dig out of this crater that they've caused?

(1:30:01) Tiger Woods was in the news as he had a press conference last week to discuss his recovery, how grateful he is and when can we see him back on the golf course?

(1:33:32) In closing, my Hero and Zero of the Week.

Please subscribe, leave a rating and post a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, Spotify, Luminary, Amazon Music and iHeartRadio or wherever you get your podcasts.

If you'd like to contribute to the production of the podcast, please visit my Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/TheJAYREELZPodcast

Many thanks for all of your love and support.

Intro/outro music by Cyklonus.

Listen to "Roll Tide! College Football Playoff Storylines. Loaded AFC, Week 12 Winners & Losers. MLB Armageddon Has Begun. Suns Peak at 18! Tiger's Ret" on Spreaker.

Another Ho-Hum NFL Sunday. RIP 2021 Steelers. Michigan Slays Dragon. Mets Spending To The 'Max'. Suns Scorching. Zags Zig. Brooks Bests Bryson

As you polish off your Thanksgiving leftovers, I'll serve up plenty of dessert to satisfy your sports tooth as Episode #226 is primed and ready to go. On deck:

(5:39) It was another ho-hum weekend for the NFL after an underwhelming Thanksgiving holiday schedule as the season continues to drag along. I'll highlight the winners (Buffalo & San Francisco) and losers (an early epitaph for my beloved Pittsburgh Steelers) and other key takeaways (The officiating throughout the league. The end of Cam Newton. New England's success. I'm still not sold. I explain why. A look at the Week 13 slate. The first ballot nominees for the Pro Football Hall of Fame and more.)

(35:37) The college football season has superseded the NFL, in my opinion, as Jim Harbaugh FINALLY slayed the Ohio State Buckeye dragon as they upend their rivals and their playoff chances in the process. Is it time to celebrate in Ann Arbor? Why this win isn't the end all, be all for the Wolverines? I'll discuss the chances for Alabama as they'll face the #1 team in the country in Georgia. Do they have a shot? Also, will some potential fresh blood in the Final Four bring morePlus, all of the other possibilities for teams to sneak into the top four (i.e. Notre Dame, Oklahoma St. and Baylor) as Conference Championship Week is on the horizon.

(49:57) MLB has surprised yours truly as there has been plenty of activity on the transaction front, with the Mets being at the forefront of the free agent party, which delivered four players including three time Cy Young Award winner, Max Scherzer (NOTE: This was made official after recording, but I do share some thoughts on it.) Are the Mets done with improving their team? What other reinforcements do they need to compete? Will the top shortstops (i.e. Carlos Correa, Trevor Story, Corey Seager, Javier Baez) among others, get signed before the Collective Bargaining Agreement expires at midnight on December 1st? I'll have a hot take on that, as well as, how shrewd were the Tampa Bay Rays were in signing budding superstar, Wander Franco to a long term deal? (Although it comes with a caveat) And I know the Yankees and Brian Cashman are laying in the weeds as I'm sure a blockbuster trade and/or free agent signing is forthcoming.

(1:09:17) The NBA season is at the quarter mark. Besides the Warriors being a top story to date, the Suns have been scorching out West nipping at the heels of Golden State. The East has been a log jam early on as 13 teams are separated by six games. There was no fallout from the Pistons and Lakers second go round, where Isaiah Stewart and LeBron James were suspended last week, but will there be any carryover in Miami as Nikola Jokic and Markieff Morris re-acquaint themselves after their run-in a few weeks back in Denver?

(1:13:52) College basketball talk before December? You better believe it as I'll get into Gonzaga's busy week where they destroy #2 UCLA (which was a far cry from the Final Four game back in April) but then lose a tight one against #5 Duke. Even #4 Kansas was upset by Dayton as the sport is looking to take a page out of what the college football season has exhibited to this point.

(1:17:40) The Islanders season has now taken a turn for the worse as they've played more home games than they've won AND scored goals combined! (Four home games, three goals scored, zero games won) Now, with a COVID outbreak throughout the team that's postponed a few games from their schedule, it begs the question. Is this break a blessing or a curse? The Canadiens front office has cleaned house as GM Marc Bergevin has been fired where assistant GM, Scott Mellanby, stepped down abruptly. Is there something going on in Montreal that we don't know about? And where will former Sharks forward, Evander Kane end up, now that he's a free agent?

(1:25:01) I'll touch on the charity golf event between Brooks Koepka vs. Bryson Dechambeau in where the post match interviews between the two were more entertaining than what took place on the course as Koepka dominates Dechambeau over the 12 hole contest.

(1:27:00) Lastly, I'll have my Hero and Zero of the Week.

Please subscribe, leave a rating and post a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, Spotify, Luminary, Amazon Music and iHeartRadio or wherever you get your podcasts.

If you'd like to contribute to the production of the podcast, please visit my Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/TheJAYREELZPodcast

Many thanks for all of your love and support.

Intro/outro music by Cyklonus.

Listen to "Another Ho-Hum NFL Sunday. RIP 2021 Steelers. Michigan Slays Dragon. Mets Spending To The 'Max'. Suns Scorching. Zags Zig. Brooks Bests Brys" on Spreaker.

Colts Stampede, Titan-ic Upset Highlights NFL WK 12 Winners & Losers. Ohio St.: Hottest Team In Nation? Lakers Malaise. Islanders Sinking. MLB Signings

As you prepare to give thanks for all that's in your life through food, family and football, I'll be sure to set the table with all of the fixins and serve up some hard hitting sports talk to whet your appetite as Episode #225 is hot out of the oven! On deck:

(6:50) The NFL had a very interesting Week 11, with some surprising winners (i.e. MIN & IND) and shocking losers (i.e. TEN & BUF) as I cover all that happened throughout the league. Is it time to take the Colts seriously? What about the Patriots? Can the Eagles make a run in the NFC East? Is the Chief defense for real? I'll share a take or two on the Steelers wild comeback falling short vs. the Chargers. I'll take an early peek at the Thanksgiving games (HINT: Not too much to write home about!) and a captivating Week 12 schedule to cap off your holiday weekend.

(40:36) The college football season continues to impress as there were not one, but two teams, that drop out of the running for the playoff set for New Year's Eve as Michigan State and Oregon were embarrassed on Saturday. What does this mean for Cincinnati? Are they an automatic to make the college football playoff? Is Ohio State the hottest team in the country? I'll preview what will be a fascinating slate of games this weekend, highlighted by the grudge match at the Big House between Ohio St. vs. Michigan.

(55:58) The Lakers (aka The Expendables) haven't been able to get in sync during the early part of the season. The big news was the fracas in Detroit where LeBron James whacked Isaiah Stewart across the face after a free throw attempt. Will this team get out of their malaise any time soon? I compare them to another veteran team of the past that had their shortcomings, but made it to an NBA Final in the process. I'll also get into the potential return of Klay Thompson, the first coach fired this season comes from the Sacramento Kings, a huge loss for the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Phoenix Suns torrid streak and other top stories from the past week in the Association.

(1:06:00) The Islanders have ended their 13 game odyssey throughout North America with two home games in their brand spanking new arena (UBS Arena) over the past weekend. But when they ended their long road trip with a four game losing streak, only to top it off with two more losses at home, which begs the question. Will they be able to turn it around quickly and not fall any deeper in the Eastern Conference? I'll discuss the latest with a key player from the two time defending Cup champions going out indefinitely with an injury (TB's Brayden Point), a COVID breakout in Ottawa and the Thanksgiving Friday game which has become an annual matchup between two original six teams (i.e. Rangers-Bruins)

(1:15:53) There's been some activity in free agency throughout baseball with the impending doom of the collective bargaining agreement expiring on December 1st. Some pitchers have re-signed with their team (Toronto's Jose Berrios) and some have changed addresses, which includes former Mets starter, Noah Syndergaard. So you know I have a couple of things to get off of my chest about this. The Yankees are posturing for a big off-season, but again, baseball armageddon is coming. Will it be a long, cold, hard winter for the sport? I also have a few choice words for super agent Scott Boras as he chimes in about how teams are 'tanking' before the trade deadline and how it affects business with his clients.

(1:22:54) Welterweight Terence Crawford wins in a 10th round TKO over Shawn Porter on Saturday night. Is there a chance that we can see a fight with Errol Spence, Jr. on the horizon?

(1:24:59) In closing, my Hero and Zero of the Week.

Please subscribe, leave a rating and post a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, Spotify, Luminary, Amazon Music and iHeartRadio or wherever you get your podcasts.

If you'd like to contribute to the production of the podcast, please visit my Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/TheJAYREELZPodcast

Many thanks for all of your love and support.

Intro/outro music by Cyklonus.

Listen to "Colts Stampede, Titan-ic Upset Highlights NFL WK 12 Winners & Losers. Ohio St.: Hottest Team In Nation? Lakers Malaise. Islanders Sinking. M" on Spreaker.

The NFL's Disappointing First Half! Week 10 Winners & Losers! Bye-Bye Oklahoma. Michigan Survives. Golden State's Surprise Start. Coach K's Final Lap. Ovechkin's Quest

I'm in a shockingly cranky sports mood to start, but it makes for a compelling podcast as Episode #224 delivers top notch analysis and opinions on all that's happening in the sports landscape. On deck:

(5:27) The NFL is passed the halfway point of the season. To put it nicely, this hasn't been one to write home about. I get into why it's been a disappointing season to date. I'll get into my winners (Chiefs, Patriots) and losers (Ravens, Broncos) of the week, go through another less than exciting week of games, culminated by the dreadful performance of the 16-16 tie between the Lions vs. Steelers, which YOU KNOW, I'll have a thing or two to share about that!

(30:39) The Oklahoma Sooners are the next team that have kissed their playoff chances goodbye, but the talk was about what Baylor did at the end of the game. Was it right for Baylor coach, Dave Aranda to kick a meaningless field goal as time expired? Plus, Michigan pulled out a huge victory at Penn State to keep their playoff hopes alive. I'll have an up to the minute look at the college football playoff landscape.

Please subscribe, leave a rating and post a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, Spotify, Luminary, Amazon Music and iHeartRadio or wherever you get your podcasts.

If you'd like to contribute to the production of the podcast, please visit my Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/TheJAYREELZPodcast

Many thanks for all of your love and support.

Intro/outro music by Cyklonus.

Listen to "The NFL's Disappointing First Half! Week 10 Winners & Losers! Bye-Bye Oklahoma. Michigan Survives. Golden State's Surprise Start. Coach K's" on Spreaker.

NFL Takes Shots To The 'Shield' (Rodgers, Ruggs & Odell) WK 9 Winners/Losers, Michigan St. Meltdown, Suns Sarver Next In Line To Go? Eichel To Vegas: Who Won The Deal? Canelo: All Time Great?

Another sport has crowned a champion, so the fall sports are now front and center. I've got all that's shaking throughout the entire landscape as Episode #223 is chock full of opinions, analysis and critiques ready for your listening pleasure. On deck:

(6:07) With baseball out of our consciousness, all of early part of the NBA, NHL seasons, the teeth of the college football schedule about to be played, it's going to be all about The Shield (a.k.a. The NFL) They went through a week that they'd like to forget as the league had to endure one its players involved in a fatal car accident (i.e. Henry Ruggs) a positive COVID test and spoken untruth from arguably its best player (i.e. Aaron Rodgers) and drama surrounding its talented, yet mercurial wide receiver (i.e. Odell Beckham, Jr.) as he gets his release from the Cleveland Browns. Of course, I'll discuss my winners (Denver & Cleveland) and losers (Buffalo, LA Rams, New Orleans) of Week 9 and how this season has been underwhelming to date.

(40:22) The craziness of college football has come to roost yet again as Michigan State falls by the wayside and are on the outside looking in for the playoffs come New Year's Eve. I'll detail the week that was in the sport, including an early look as to who I see making it to the college football playoff late next month.

(50:56) I'll recap a World Series championship win by the Atlanta Braves, as unexpected of a Series run that we've seen. Now, we must fasten our seatbelts for what looks like a long, cold, hard winter of negotiations as the owners and players will have to come up with a new CBA (Collective Bargaining Agreement) which will most likely be a fight to the bitter end. Will there be a new agreement in time for the 2022 season? Will it be delayed? Postponed?

(56:17) The NBA is going to have to deal with another scenario regarding an owner with alleged racist and misogynistic comments as Robert Sarver of the Suns has been reported in the past week by ESPN. Even with the investigation ongoing, what should the NBA do? Is Sarver on his way out? I'll also take a trip around the Association to see what's the latest, including normalcy is back in the Eastern Conference, Joel Embiid will have to sit out due to a positive COVID test and is this the beginning of the end of LeBron James's indestructibility.

(1:03:52) The ongoing saga in Buffalo with center Jack Eichel has come to an end. He gets dealt to the Vegas Golden Knights for players and draft picks. Who got the better of the deal? Plus, Sidney Crosby's return to the ice from a wrist injury was brief (i.e. COVID) and the rest of what's happening on the ice as we're closing in on the first complete month of the NHL season.

(1:13:27) Canelo Alvarez has unified all four titles in the super middleweight division. With his record (57-1-2, 39 KO's) is he considered an all time great fighter in the history of boxing?

(1:20:05) In MMA, Kamaru Usman defeats longtime rival Colby Covington in a close decision on Saturday night as they've competed in ten fights! Is this one time (or five times) too many? Has this matchup become tiresome?

(1:22:50) Of course, I wrap up with my Hero and Zero of the Week.

Please subscribe, leave a rating and post a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, Spotify, Luminary, Amazon Music and iHeartRadio or wherever you get your podcasts.

If you'd like to contribute to the production of the podcast, please visit my Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/TheJAYREELZPodcast

Many thanks for all of your love and support.

Intro/outro music by Cyklonus.

Listen to "NFL Takes Shots To The 'Shield' (Rodgers, Ruggs & Odell) WK 9 Winners/Losers, Michigan St. Meltdown, Suns Sarver Next In Line To Go? Eichel" on Spreaker.

Series Shifts To Houston. Can Astros Complete Comeback? NFL WK 8 Winners & Losers. Big Ten Flops In College Football. Who's On Top Of NBA East? Blackhawks Black Eye With Sexual Assault Case

A new day, new week and new month as November ushers into our consciousness so even with the leaves changing and the temperature dropping, the sports world continues to stay hot as I'll have plenty to say about it as Episode #222 is ready for your listening pleasure. On deck:

(6:53) The World Series has now made its turn past the weekend and into a Game 6 in Houston. I'll recap all that took place to this point as the Astros stave off elimination. Can the Astros extend this series? Will the Braves win Game 6? Or 7? What is a potential key factor the Astros as they do their best to push this series to a decisive winner take all, Game 7? I'll get into the length of these World Series games. What can they do to fix it? And can any of these hitters take a strike especially in the later innings? I'll also talk about the Padres hire of former A's manager, Bob Melvin. And the Mets continued, but failing pursuit for a VP of baseball operations and skipper to lead this franchise next year.

(33:56) NFL Week 8 had some intriguing outcomes as we inch closer to the midway point of the season. I'll share my winners (GB, NO) and losers (CIN, CLE) of the week. It's time for Odell Beckham Jr. to be dealt from Cleveland and other notes as I look back on the schedule this past Sunday.

(52:47) The Big Ten schedule has begun their Battle Royale slate as Michigan loses a brutal game to their in-state rivals, Michigan State. Iowa couldn't muster up any offense vs. Wisconsin and Penn State's comeback fell short vs. Ohio State as those games were the highlight in college football this past week. Does Michigan still have a shot at college football's Final Four? What about Michigan State?

(1:01:28) Who would've thought that the top of the Eastern Conference after two weeks would have the Knicks, Wizards, Bulls and Hornets as teams above the Sixers, Bucks, Nets and Celtics in the standing? Are these teams for real? Can they sustain this early season success?

(1:06:35) The Chicago Blackhawks have gone through the ringer and the season is only three weeks old. They've had several players come down with COVID, have not been able to win a game to date, but its the fallout from the sexual assault allegations regarding a former assistant coach towards a player, Kyle Beach, more than a decade ago that has rocked the organization and the league. In the process, the former coach, Joel Quenneville, who was in Florida coaching the Panthers, has resigned. I'll discuss the after effects of this sad and sordid story and take a look around the ice for the latest and greatest in the NHL.

(1:17:03) In closing, I have my Hero and Zero of the Week.

Please subscribe, leave a rating and post a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, Spotify, Luminary, Amazon Music and iHeartRadio or wherever you get your podcasts.

If you'd like to contribute to the production of the podcast, please visit my Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/TheJAYREELZPodcast

Many thanks for all of your love and support.

Intro/outro music by Cyklonus.

Listen to "Series Shifts To Houston. Can Astros Complete Comeback? NFL WK 8 Winners & Losers. Big Ten Flops In College Football. Who's On Top Of NBA Ea" on Spreaker.

Astros Exorcism On Deck? Upstart Braves Make Series Return! Are The Bengals For Real? Big Ten Battle Royale! Time To Ship Ben Simmons, But Where? NBA 75th All Time Team Snubs & Misses

As we enter the week of Halloween, the sports world always has a couple of treats, but quite a few tricks. I'll pass out some of the good and bad as Episode #221 is ready for consumption. On deck:

(5:09) Baseball fans! The Fall Classic is set! I'll review the roads that the Houston Astros and Atlanta Braves took to get to the World Series, the storylines of this upcoming series and how they'll fare as they shoot for a championship (and I'll have a prediction, of course). I'll also get into how the Boston Red Sox and Los Angeles Dodgers limp into the offseason, the Cardinals fire and hire a new manager and should former Giants GM Brian Sabean receive a call from the New York Mets about their front office position?

(33:35) NFL Week 7 was a complete atrocity. The schedule produced a lot of lopsided scores as it was a week to forget. I'll have my winners (CIN, LV) and losers (KC, SF) and take a peek at at Week 8 slate that looks just as bad as Week 7.

(47:32) Penn St. becomes the latest top ranked team to take an 'L' in college football, but the battle royale will begin in the Big Ten starting this weekend as the schedule intensifies in the conference. I'll discuss that, as well as, will Alabama get picked off before the SEC Championship Game based on their recent sloppy play?

(55:55) The Lakers and Nets have gotten off to not so good starts, but the talk in the Association is the saga of Ben Simmons and his likely departure in Philadelphia. What should the 76ers do? How will they go about getting rid of the mercurial point guard? I'll check on the hot and cold starts to some of the teams throughout the league. And you know, I have to add my two shiny red pennies to the NBA's 75th Anniversary Team. How I disagree with a couple of selections and a few snubs that's getting traction, but not with yours truly. You won't want to miss on what I have to say about that!

(1:14:38) The NHL is into its second week. The Blackhawks are the latest team to get hit by COVID and they haven't won a game so far this season. I'll go through some of the teams that are making waves to this point and the others that surprisingly are scuffling out of the gate.

(1:17:57) And to close, there's my Hero and Zero of the Week.

Please subscribe, leave a rating and post a review on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, Spotify, Luminary, Amazon Music and iHeartRadio or wherever you get your podcasts.

If you'd like to contribute to the production of the podcast, please visit my Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/TheJAYREELZPodcast

Many thanks for all of your love and support.

Intro/outro music by Cyklonus.

Listen to "Astros Exorcism On Deck? Upstart Braves Make Series Return! Are The Bengals For Real? Big Ten Battle Royale! Time To Ship Ben Simmons, But W" on Spreaker.