The competition in Flutie vs Stegall is ramping up, and as we head into week 13, our two NFL legends are at it again. Doug Flutie has put pen to paper once more as he talks us through his picks for another week of football action.
NFL Insights and Thanksgiving Tradition
Thanksgiving is here, and with it comes the cherished tradition of gathering with family to indulge in great FOOD and great FOOTBALL. While I’m used to tossing the pigskin around with my old high school buddies down in Florida these days, the spirit of the game never changes. It’s not just about reliving the glory days; it’s about sharing stories and digging into the strategic intricacies that make football so captivating.
The NFL Playoff Picture
With the playoff race heating up, each week brings more action-packed games and unpredictable outcomes. Let’s dive into what’s been brewing in the NFL, starting with my observations and predictions on some of the league’s most fascinating matchups.
First up, the Indianapolis Colts. Though they stumbled in their recent game against Kansas City, I’m confident they’ll bounce back. Great teams don’t lose back-to-back games, and with corrections in their gameplay, they’re poised to reclaim their momentum. The Colts are a good offensive team, and they’ll need to rely heavily on Jonathan Taylor to reset their rhythm and drive forward.
Shifting gears to the Buffalo Bills, I’ve backed them to clinch a win against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Despite some hiccups in their defensive lineup and spotty offense, I believe they won’t let themselves endure another consecutive loss. While playing in Pittsburgh does pose a challenge, Buffalo’s grit and drive should shine through.
On Kansas City and the Playoff Race
Speaking of Kansas City, last week’s victory over the Colts was pivotal. A season is made in moments like these, where a team’s playoff hopes hang in the balance. I back Patrick Mahomes and his natural-born talent to lead KC into another postseason—and once they’re in, it’s anyone’s game.
Despite Mahomes moving gingerly during the last game, his ability to improvise and make strategic plays could tip the scales in favor of the Chiefs. If I’m another AFC team, I’d be wise to keep an eye on these Chiefs and hope they don’t find their stride too soon.
Navigating the NFC West
Let’s not forget the Raiders, caught in a storm of their own. The recent firing of Chip Kelly as their offensive coordinator marks the third consecutive year the Raiders have switched it up mid-season. Their offense, led by Geno Smith, struggles to hold water. It’s a mismatch I see the Chargers exploiting to cover their scratch in points.
But hey, it’s the NFL, where surprises are the norm and not the exception. Players like Daniel Jones in Indianapolis and Sam Darnold in Seattle showcase the “keep your head up” resilience that makes football extraordinary—even when the odds seem insurmountable.
Thanksgiving Traditions
Of course, football isn’t just gridiron grit and strategic guts. It’s also about community and family bonds. Each Thanksgiving, before I indulge in the holiday feast, I participate in a longstanding custom—meeting up with local guys and tossing the football around on a Florida field. It keeps the competitive spirit alive while allowing me to keep the old knee limber!
As my colleague Milt and I dissect the ever-changing dynamics of NFL storylines and swap tales from the locker room, we do it not just for the analytics, but for the love of the game. As one of North America’s fastest-growing podcasts, “Flutie vs Stegall” brings together folks across the continent who share our passion, and for that, we’re sincerely thankful.
Thanks for joining our Thanksgiving edition of “Flutie vs Stegall” and for sticking with us throughout the season. As December dawns, stay tuned for more insights, more surprises, and more football. Grab a slice of pumpkin pie, settle in, and let’s enjoy this ride together.
Doug