Almost Shameless: Recent Episodes
Tanya Ray Fox
Every sports fan thinks they know best and everyone in the media is trying to get your attention. Lucky for you, I'm both.
Tanya kicks off NFL season with Patriots beat reporter and Locked On Patriots host Mike D'Abate by hitting on some of the hot preseason topics around the league (2:30), including Aaron Rodgers' chances of making the Jets the real deal and which NFC North team is most ready to grab the division by the horns in his absence. Stay tuned after that for a Patrick Mahomes GOAT hot take (34:16) and then a blind ranking of 10 random NFL head coaches (48:06).
Tanya quickly recaps why it's encouraging that the Patriots won decisively against the Lions, who were a great matchup for their ailing offense, as they head into a more forgiving stretch of their season (2:00). Then she discusses the weird way that the broadcast handled Lamar Jackson's final drive in the Ravens' Week 5 win over the Bengals, and why it's yet another indication that Lamar doesn't get the respect he's earned (8:13). For the rest of the show, Tanya welcomes on Ladarius Brown to discuss the highlights of WWE's Extreme Rules pay per view and why one wrestler might be this generation's John Cena (13:49).
Tanya dives into why the NFL and the Miami Dolphins deserve all the skepticism regarding what happened to Tua, and how it ties into learning our lesson from all the passes that we gave Brett Favre in spite of a million red flags (3:30). Then she hits on why she's tired of Bill Belichick's game of chess with the media regarding Mac Jones' injury status and availability in Week 4, and why it doesn't matter THAT much who is going to be behind center against the Green Bay Packers (16:16). Finally, Tanya explains why men on the internet need to check their biases when it comes to their over-the-top criticism of ESPN's Malika Andrews (21:08).
Tanya takes a deep dive into some major reporting failures in the story of Ime Udoka's misconduct within the Boston Celtics organization, the red flags raised by his one-season suspension and why it should never have been reported as a consensual relationship without more context (2:53). Then she hits on the Patriots win over the Steelers and why the Patriots offense may have to look back at what worked last year in order to move forward and help Mac Jones progress as they prepare for the Ravens in their first home game this season (15:41). Finally, Tanya talks about why teams like the Chiefs and Bills are thriving amid mediocrity as Week 3 of the NFL season approaches (20:09).
Week 2 kicked off with a messy game between the AFC West rival Chargers and Chiefs, and we learned a lot about how not only that division could play out but also what it means for the rest of the AFC as the Chiefs establish their ability to stay in any type of game (1:58). With that in mind, Tanya takes a look at where the Patriots stand as they head to Pittsburgh to take on a weakened Steelers team, and makes a prediction on how the game will go based on where both teams stand after Week 1 (8:02). Finally, it's hot take time as Tanya reveals why she engages in Twitter debates with trolls and burner accounts (16:03). Take notes! Be sure to stay for the side note about the Belichick "hot seat" BS (22:02).
Week 1 of the 2022 NFL season officially kicked off on Thursday night with the Bills trouncing the reigning Super Bowl champion Rams, so Tanya dives into what we learned about both teams in the inaugural game of the year (01:31). She also examines what it means for the Patriots' ceiling this season (12:00). Then it's time to take a tour around the NFC to look at which teams have the best chance at locking up the division and who should be in wild card contention (15:15). Finally, Tanya explains why the Patriots have absolutely no room for error to lose in Week 1 to the Dolphins (26:28).
The new season of Almost Shameless with Tanya Ray Fox kicks off with a more optimistic assessment of what we can and should expect from the New England Patriots coming off of a less than impressive preseason (03:47). Then she goes in on critics of Bill Belichick's career without Tom Brady (09:08), and hits on the issue of how sports media continues to deal with sexual assault stories in the NFL and why it's important to leave outdated journalistic values in the past (17:38). Finally, Tanya takes a tour around the AFC to make some broad predictions about what we can expect to see in the conference in 2022 and how it relates to playoff expectations for the Patriots (26:27).
Almost Shameless is back with guest and Patriots insider Mike D'Abate just in time to break down the major QB moves that are shaking up the NFL, beginning with the blockbuster trade of Russell Wilson to the Denver Broncos (03:17). Mike and Tanya continue the conversation by discussing whether Wilson can get the Broncos out of a very competitive AFC West (09:29). Next up they hit on the breaking news that the Indianapolis Colts traded Carson Wentz to the Washington Commanders, and what that might spell out for the future of the QB position on a talented Indy roster (14:48). Then Tanya goes through the state of the Patriots in this early part of the offseason, including where Mac Jones goes from here without Josh McDaniels (22:22), what the coaching staff will look like in 2022 (28:10) and whether Bill Belichick is about to blow it by letting JC Jackson hit the open market (32:14). Finally, Tanya and Mike make their way-too-early predictions about whether the Patriots will improve their record next season (40:12).
That's a wrap on the NFL season! (muffled cries) Tanya kicks the show off with few broad takeaways from the Los Angeles Rams Super Bowl win over the Cincinnati Bengals, including the difference between a good game and good narratives. Then she dives into the main topic of the show, explaining why Aaron Donald should have been the game's MVP, how broadcasters can better help shape the conversation about players and how Cooper Kupp's MVP win is a perpetuation of the league's insistence on rewarding inconsistent but flashy offense over elite defense (9:03). Then she hits on what the win means for Matthew Stafford and why it proves that upgrades at QB aren't just about the stats (22:32). Tanya also offers her thoughts on where the Bengals go from here and hard decisions they might need to make to prevent Joe Burrow from becoming the next Dan Marino (27:42), and why this Rams Super Bowl may be the peak before the valley after their all-in gamble for a title paid off (33:01).
We should be talking about the impending showdown between the Los Angeles Rams and the Cincinnati Bengals in Super Bowl LVI. However there are bigger things at play this week. Tanya starts the show off with an overview of the allegations in the lawsuit filed by Brian Flores accusing three NFL teams of racism in the hiring process (3:36). She goes into exactly what is at stake for the former Miami Dolphins head coach, how the power structures remain complicit, and she outlines exactly where the league has to start in order to address this problem head on (8:41). Then she talks about the controversy over Tom Brady leaving the New England Patriots completely out of his retirement speech, and explains why Pats fans absolutely deserve a personal finale farewell from their QB of 20 years (25:37).
This was one of the best NFL divisional rounds that most of us can remember, and Tanya hits on every game and every major storyline from the weekend. First up is the Bengals in over an underwhelming No. 1 seeded Titans, and her concern over what she sees as Cincinnati's greatest liability as they establish themselves as real players in the AFC (3:52). Then it's on to the 49ers edging the Packer in Lambeau and specifically the demystification of Aaron Rodgers whose real character on and off the field is now out there for everyone to see (8:28). Then it's onto Tampa Bay, which kicked off with a terrifying Tom Brady comeback that almost sent the Rams packing. Instead, Matt Stafford helped his team survive and now Brady is mulling retirement. Tanya reveals what she's seen that makes her think the GOAT may actually hang it up (13:56). Finally we come to the main event, where Tanya hits on the marvelous offensive showdown between the Bills and Chiefs (24:53). However she also calls bullshit on the idea that it was the "greatest NFL game ever" (26:32) and then proposes an overtime rule change that no one is talking about (33:50).
The wild card round is complete and the New England Patriots are just one of several teams to leave the playoffs with more than just hurt pride. Set aside the hysterics, Bill Belichick and the defense will be fine. But there is one major change the team will have to make in the offseason if they want any chance of getting Mac Jones into AFC contending shape. Tanya breaks it all down, from his standing among rookie playoff QBs of the past to what the Patriots will need to see next season if they're going to go all in on a pure pocket passer with a regular arm in this era of the NFL (3:22). Then she quickly recaps where the rest of the league stands, how the divisional matchups are poised to shake out, and she makes her predictions for the final four (23:39).
The Winter AMA mailbag has arrived and Tanya is ready for the questions from across sports and pop culture. She kicks things off by laying out the latest with Antonio Brown and his bizarre take on Rob Gronkowski and Tom Brady. Then she hits the mailbag, beginning with musings on 'Survivor' as the greatest competitive social experiment of all time (5:12), then discusses the evolution of her dream job (8:50). Tanya gives a quick and uninformed defense of Tuukka Rask (12:32) before moving on to the parity of the AFC playoff field (14:10) and whether the Patriots would be better off heading to the playoffs right now with Cam Newton (16:02). Then she shares her thoughts on the Patriots running more no-huddle with Mac Jones (21:29), and waves away concerns about Bill Belichick's issues with drafting wide receivers (24:30). She also complains about WWE botching the chance to put Brock Lesnar up against a babyface after his title win at Day 1 (30:42), and closes things out with a prediction about Russell Wilson's preferred destination in 2022 (33:45) and which open NFL coaching gig is the most desirable (35:20).
We've finally made it to the first inaugural WEEK 18 of the NFL season and much like the season itself, things are still very chaotic. First up, Tanya addresses the situation with Antonio Brown that led to his swift release from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers - and her controversial tweet about Tom Brady's role in bringing him to the team (3:42). Then she breaks down the NFL playoff picture and which matchup she prefers for the New England Patriots in the wild card round (21:32). To wrap up, Tanya offers some big picture thoughts on Bill Belichick and Mac Jones teaming up for a playoff run that is yet another feather in the GOAT's cap (27:06) .
From Bill Belichick vs Tom Brady to Mac Jones vs Cam Newton to the Red Sox vs the Yankees, Tanya hit on all the best rivalries in Boston sports this year... and did a little ragging on Ben Roethlisberger and Aaron Rodgers for good measure. Here's some of the best rants from Almost Shameless in 2021. See you in 2022, gang.
(1:23) Enough of the comparing, Brady and Belichick did it together.
(4:15) Fox & Fallon reunite to assign each of Brady's 7 Super Bowl rings to a day of the week
(6:16) Aaron Rodgers preseason shit-talking
(7:43) Arizona Cardinals one of the most underrated teams heading into the 2021 season
(10:24) Mac is the Patriots starter. Now what?
(13:34) Keys to the Patriots succeeding with a rookie QB in 2021
(18:02) CC Sabathia dunks on the Yankees after they lose again to the Red Sox in the playoffs
(20:29) Steelers fan Jarrett Bailey defends Big Ben's honor
(23:31) Jon Gruden's leaked emails tell a story about who people are when they think no one's looking
(25:56) Roger Goodell will never give us the answers we're looking for
(29:28) This or That with Mike D'Abate: Belichick as Coach of the Year or Mac as Offensive Rookie of the Year?
(33:57) Patriots Mid-season Awards: Best win of the first half
Tanya followed the New England Patriots' lead and took a bye week for the holidays, but she's back and taking a tour of the NFL's weird Week 15. She kicks things off by checking in with the Buccaneers and Tom Brady after another loss to the Saints (3:03) before delivering a blunt explanation for what we saw from the Patriots in their loss to the Colts on Thursday Night Football (7:41). Then she takes a look around at the rest of the AFC and the NFL overall amidst accusations that some teams are "pretenders" rather than "contenders" (17:12). Tanya closes the show with a rant about John Harbaugh's decision to forgo overtime against the Packers, and rips his unorthodox approach prior to making the game-losing call (27:46).
The Patriots beat the Bills in an unforgettable way on Monday Night Football to take sole possession of the No. 1 seed in the AFC heading into their bye week. The aftermath was fraught with accusations of overreaction and hyperbole, balanced out by the dawning realization from everyone else that the Patriots are back on top. Tanya breaks down exactly what the conditions were like and rips into people who complain about bad weather games outside (3:08). Then she explains that Monday's unique game plan was no fluke, it was the culmination of everything that Bill Belichick and Josh McDaniels have been preparing for (8:31). Then Tanya reads a few criticisms of the Bill Belichick praise from prominent media members and she responds by laying out the history of QBs who succeed in their rookie year then go on to win the Super Bowl early in their careers (15:20). Finally, Tanya rips Bills coach Sean McDermott's insulting lack of accountability and deflection after the game (24:48).
Tanya is joined by the host of the Locked on Patriots podcast and writer for SI Patriots Maven, Mike D'Abate to catch up on the NFL season through Week 13. They kick things off by chatting about the players on the offense who are best positioned to help Mac Jones continue his hot streak (4:48). Then they hit on the state of the Patriots defense and if that unit has any weaknesses (10:41), which guys might be the unsung heroes on the season so far (16:54), and how they expect the final five games of the season to play out (22:40). Then Tanya makes Mike play a rousing game of 'This or That' NFL 2021 Edition where they touch on topics across the league (27:02).
Tanya starts things off this week by taking a look at Cam Newton's triumphant return to the Panthers and to the field in Week 10, and what it could mean for Carolina in a surprisingly open NFC South divisional race (5:08). Then it's a full deep dive into what the Patriots are doing that's working so well, how Bill Belichick turned a rebuild into real playoff contention, the rise of their elite defense and what the next two games could mean for the season-long outlook of the conference (9:35).
The New England Patriots have played nine games in this new 18 week season and so it's time for the Almost Shameless Podcast to hand out some midseason awards!! First, Tanya quickly touches on a few of the biggest stories of the week, including Odell Beckham Jr. signing with the Rams over the Patriots (among others), Cam Newton landing back with the Panthers and the Ravens losing a very bizarre game to the Dolphins (2:45). Then it's time to hand out the awards for the best offensive, defensive, special teams, rookie and comeback players on the Patriots through the first half of the season, as well as some bonus team awards for best loss and best win of the year so far (7:08).
The Patriots secured their biggest win of the season on the road against the Los Angeles Chargers with a classic Bill Belichick defensive performance and some old-school possession offense. Now that people are paying attention to the GOAT and his rookie up in New England, can they deliver on the promise they've shown and make a real playoff run? Tanya addresses that, where they stand in the AFC playoff picture as of now, and what it will take to sustain this momentum (2:40). Then she lays into Aaron Rodgers for being a know-it-all fraud who asserted his dominance all over Green Bay only to now hand his potential replacement the biggest opportunity of his career (18:55).
Tanya is back and kicks things off with examining the harsh realities of Roger Goodell's reign over the NFL, and a critique of the way fans and media respond to the lack of transparency in league culture and investigations (3:00). Then she moves onto Thursday night's wild game between the Cardinals and Packers, and the resulting praise of Aaron Rodgers that took a turn back into the delusional GOAT discussion that won't go away (17:12).
Tanya welcomes Jarrett Bailey, Fansided NFL contributor and co-host of the Laces Out Podcast, to take a look across the league as we head into Week 6 and the real meat of the NFL season. First though, Tanya and Jarrett breakdown and react to the fallout from Jon Gruden's resignation after the leak of a slew of racist, homophobic and misogynistic emails between he and former Washington Football team President, Bruce Allen (2:06). Then they move into assessing which of the NFL's top-tier teams are for real Super Bowl contenders, and which might be headed for a downturn as the season moves on (25:25). Finally Tanya forces Jarrett to face the real possibility that his Steelers and her Patriots may very well face a battle down the stretch for the final wild card playoff spot in the AFC (55:00).
Tanya kicks things off by sharing some of her favorite reactions to the Red Sox beating the Yankees in the wild card game, including an absolute masterpiece from a former Yankee himself (5:02). Then it's onto reactions to Patriots Bucs, but specifically analyzing where Mac Jones is at through 4 games of the regular season (10:45). She also breaks down why she's not as worked up about the Stephon Gilmore trade as some others in the media (28:51), then looks ahead at the next six games of the season to assess what the Patriots are dealing with now that the biggest game of the year is out of the way (31:09). Stick around to the end to hear about the epic way Tanya got to watch Tom Brady's homecoming.
The fall AMA mailbag is here to lighten things up ahead of maybe the most stressful regular season game that Patriots fans will ever watch, so sit back and grab your fall beverage of choice and get to know Tanya a little better while also getting your weekly does of sports hot takes sprinkled in. From Halloween movies and aggressive wrestling fans to preparing your emotions for Patriots v Bucs, there's a little something for everyone.
This week Tom Brady Sr. spoke with NBC Sports Boston's Tom E. Curran and said he thinks his son has been vindicated by winning in Tampa Bay. But what exactly is Brady's gripe with 20 years of unprecedented success again? (2:51) Plus Tanya proposes a batshit idea for getting the NFL to back off of their taunting rules for on-field celebrations (25:21).
As we all wrap up our Week 1 analysis, Tanya checks in on where the Patriots stand as they prepare to bounce back in Week 2 against the Jets - and dives a little deeper into exactly what Bill Belichick is looking to get from Mac Jones this season and whether it's a formula that can stand up long term against the current powers of the AFC (2:34). Then she expands the conversation to the rest of the NFL to take a look at 3 teams we can expect to look a lot different in Week 2 than they did in Week 1 (20:09), and does the same exercise for 3 QBs whose Week 2 performances may have us second-guessing what we saw from them in their season debuts (27:08).
It's the last podcast of the NFL offseason before the most wonderful time of the year kicks off on Thursday night, and this week's episode is setting some ground rules for the Almost Shameless listeners, watchers and followers. First Tanya addresses the trolls and broader misogynist community that seemingly cannot move themselves into the 21st century to adjust to the new reality of a diversifying sports landscape (3:50). Then she clarifies her stance on Mac Jones, and why she won't be eating any of that humble pie some people keep trying to serve. Happy Week 1 everybody, and welcome to the Almost Shameless NFL season experience (11:05).
In a twist no one saw coming, Cam Newton didn't just lose the starting Patriots QB job -- he lost his job altogether. Tanya quickly breaks down her thoughts on the mysteries surrounding the surprising cut as well as Bill Belichick's somewhat alarming comments about COVID vaccination in the NFL (4:00). Then she checks in on the recent history of rookie QB success, and explains the three major hurdles the Patriots MUST clear to make a playoff run with the rookie Mac Jones at the helm (13:26). Finally, with his official firing as Executive Producer of Jeopardy, Mike Richards offers us a clear picture of what real accountability looks like amidst the "cancel culture" panic (27:19).
Tanya cuts to the chase as she launches into a breakdown and critique of Scott Zolak's problematic comments about Cam Newton's on-field demeanor at Patriots practice, and how his viewpoint is a reflection of a much larger issue with the way too many people all around New England speak about Newton in general (2:50). The show wraps up with a quick plea to the listeners to step outside their comfort zones and (gasp!) watch some English soccer -- in the name of Ted Lasso (23:57).
It's another weekend podcast as Tanya quickly recaps the Patriots second preseason game and dives into the complexities of what is happening for fans and media as the reality of Cam Newton as the starter begins to sink in (3:18). Then it's over to the NBA where LeBron feels disrespected by scouts and execs after being left out of a recent ESPN poll of the best player in the league,, and Tanya wonders whether LeBron really knows what he wants as a competitor (16:28). We head back to the NFL to break down three NFL teams and rosters that you may not be taking as seriously as you should heading into the 2021 season (21:47). And finally... a deep dive behind the scenes has thrown the Jeopardy hosting hire into utter chaos and Tanya is breaking it all down (31:58).
NFL Nation got it's first glimpse at the re-tooled Patriots, an improved Cam Newton and a composed Mac Jones -- and everyone immediately forgot how to analyze the quarterback position. So Tanya kicks the show off with a breakdown of how the QBs looked and how media and fans reacted (2:32), and gets into some other highlights from the exhibition (15:05). Then she issues an early warning to Patriots Nation to brace themselves for the continued conversation around the Great Brady v Belichick Lie that national media is selling to undermine the greatest team dynasty ever (22:26). And finally, Tanya works through her outrage over Jeopardys choice for the successor(s?) to Alex Trebek (27:26).
There is one topic and one topic only for this week's show, and it's all about Cam Newton and the way the media has handled the reporting and analysis of his journey from last season through the second week of training camp (02:00). First Tanya goes no holds barred in laying out her beef with how the local media has mislead fans about what Cam is capable of as a starter and what is best for a team that has been as intentionally overhauled as the Patriots have over the last six months. Then she welcomes on Sara Marshall from FPC Patriots to continue the conversation and get a little more perspective from someone who's been paying close attention to training camp -- and has also received heat for defending Cam through a tumultuous offseason (14:20). Then Tanya lightens things up by making Sara play a quick game of Give Me More, Go Away: NFL Training Camp Edition (38:08).
It's an all Tanya show straight from her family home in Massachusetts, so she kicks things off with a little recap of where things stand with Cam Newton and Mac Jones as Patriots camp begins (4:20). Then she checks in with the Aaron Rodgers situation with the Packers after a bizarre candid press conference that may not win the fans over the way he thinks it will (11:57). Finally, the biggest news of the Olympics so far has been Simone Biles dropping out of the team and all-around competitions for mental health reasons, and there's a lot of record straightening to be done (23:43).
This is the first seasonal mailbag EVER on the Almost Shameless podcast, so strap in to get to know Tanya a little better while also getting your weekly does of sports hot takes sprinkled in. From the Patriots QB depth chart to the social media importance of The Office, there's a little something for everyone.
There's no better way to prepare for Patriots training camp than with an old school attack on the Patriot Way! Mike D'Abate of SI Maven and Locked on Patriots joins Tanya to discuss Julian Edelman's thoughts on the fun of winning, and to whom he will pass the leadership baton on offense (5:00). Then Mike shares a few of the more underrated and overlooked storylines for fans and media to watch out for once training camp kicks off, and Tanya makes a case for why Josh McDaniels is the guy to keep an eye on (18:50). Finally, Tanya and Mike play a game of This or That: 2021 Patriots Edition (30:35).
It's been a weird off-season for the Patriots with a QB battle for the first time since January of 2002, but this week the target of national scrutiny is maligned WR N'Keal Harry, who wants a trade from the only team that wanted to draft him in the first round, and Tanya explains why this is a lose-lose for everyone involved (5:09). Then it's a long overdue clapback at Aaron Rodger's eat, pray, love summer of sucking up to Tom Brady and rolling his eyes at the Packers (15:00), and finally a classic Tanya rant about American sports' fans contentious relationship with soccer and why anonymous people on Twitter don't get to have their opinions taken seriously (25:15).
The Boston Celtics have entered their new era with the hiring of Ime Udoka (01:48), and it wouldn't be a major breaking story in 2021 without someone epically embarrassing themselves on Twitter (04:15). Then Tanya breaks down the importance of Carl Nassib as the first active NFL player to come out and what it's been like to watch the evolution of how the sports world dealt with the news (12:53). Finally, Tanya takes down the negativity and misinformation coming from Patriots media and explains why it's time to let go of Tom Brady and embrace the GOAT that's still in New England (22:44).
John Amaechi soundbite from the Twitter feed of the Dan Le Batard Show with StuGotz.
Theme music: Quittin' Time by Patrick Lee
Yet another Twitter debate regarding analytics in the NBA was sparked late last week, culminating in the accusation that people who prefer the study of efficiency are nerds who are ruining sports fandom. So Tanya brought on Bryan Kalbrosky, writer for HoopsHype and For The Win, to break down the disconnect between the highlight purists and the people paying closer attention to the numbers behind the curtain. (3:25) They also dispel some myths about exactly what analytics are (22:27) and debate whether NBA media is more beholden to the opinions of athletes than media covering other leagues (32:21).
Tanya reunited with friend and former co-host Courtney Fallon of the Bad Signal Podcast and The Game Day NFL to host a very special reunion episode of Fox & Fallon. After getting the audience reacquainted with their banter they kick things off by ranking on a scale of 1-10 just how much Patrick Mahomes was to blame for the Chiefs' meltdown on Sunday (07:00). Then it's on to the GOAT, and Tanya wonders whether a colleague at FS1 is over-correcting by giving Tom Brady too much credit for the Buccaneers championship season (18:21), and Courtney suggests that perhaps this is the final nail in the coffin for the bizarre brigade of delusional Tom Brady Haters (29:24). And of course there couldn't be a Fox & Fallon reunion without a ridiculous game to cap off the episode, so now that Tom Brady has 7 rings, Tanya and Courtney attempt to assign a week day to each one of his Super Bowl wins (36:51).
It took until Week 15 when the Patriots were officially mathematically eliminated from the playoffs for the cowards to get up on their soap boxes and declare that we finally have proof that Bill Belichick can't do anything without Tom Brady. This podcast is dedicated to firing that lazy, bad faith, garbage fire take into the sun to burn for eternity (04:54).
It's the first THANKSGIVING episode of Almost Shameless, which is appropriate because almost shameless is how most of us feel about the amount of food we're about to consume. First up, it's asterisk szn!! Time to start being honest with ourselves about the realities of what COVID has done to affect the fairness of the game, and what it will mean for the eventual winners and losers this year (3:56). Then, we dive into the eeriness of Tom Brady's time with the Buccaneers so far -- what is going wrong and why does it feel like the GOAT isn't all there? (15:28). And of course, we couldn't close out this holiday episode without a scorching takedown of the most wretched of the Thanksgiving side dishes (24:55).
NBA draft analyst Bryan Kalbrosky of HoopsHype and USA Today SMG joins Tanya with some fun tidbits to help the casual NBA fan prepare for the 2020 NBA Draft.
Before all the ranting, Tanya takes some time to reflect on and remember the lives and impact of Alex Trebek and Tommy Heinsohn, the media grandfathers that many of us shared and lost this week (01:22). Then it's back to sports, with an optimistic take on a wild Patriots win over the winless Jets and Cam Newton's success in the wake of Tom Brady's failure (8:04). Then, league commissioners and team owners can't stop reminding an economically suffering general public that COVID-19 is very inconvenient for their bottom line (19:15). And finally, a classic rant about the kind of person on Twitter that every media person hates but is too afraid to say it (22:00).
This week Tanya is detouring from the insanity of the NFL to chat with USA Today Sports Media Group NBA managing editor Bryan Kalbrosky about the league's plans for the final two months of 2020. They discuss the report that the NBA is looking to begin camp by Dec. 1st with the season starting before Christmas (5:49), and whether LeBron will be back on the court that soon (14:04). Bryan also give his diagnosis for the Celtics, and whether they need to make any major changes to succeed in 2021 (20:39), and they debate whether the Clippers are better off with Ty Lue and if Doc Rivers can really make a difference for the 76ers (32:00).
The Patriots lost a closer-than-the-score-would-have-you-believe contest against the Chiefs on Monday night, but the story actually began early in the weekend prior. Tanya breaks down Cam Newton's COVID timeline and the inconsistencies in how the NFL handled the Patriots game and the rescheduled Titans-Steelers game (03:47). Then it's on to the juicy stuff, and boy was it sour. Patriots fan (and a lot of hot take media) learned a hard lesson 20 years in the making on Monday night that began long before Cam Newton came to town. In short: the quarterback IS the system, and always has been (13:45). And finally, a re-run of Tanya's inaugural Trash Take Hall of Fame Induction -- because as bad as this take was before, it has only become more moldy and stinky in light of the Brian Hoyer/Jarrett Stidham disaster on Monday night (20:54).
Russell Wilson is the MVP of the NFL and probably has been for longer than we've realized (4:00). Plus, the Patriots are the best team in the AFC East despite preseason expectations -- and their 1-1 record (10:50). And finally, re-assessing how we talk about athletes and their adversity during the pandemic (15:30).
Things come and go, especially in 2020... but the NFL remains. Week 1 has passed and many things happened that we expected, including Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs looking like Super Bowl contenders yet again (06:14). However not everything went according to the offseason script. Cam Newton and the Patriots surprised with their dominant if not always tidy win over the Dolphins, and Tanya has some thoughts about how it all went down - and the reactions to Newton's post-game skirmish (11:13). Then it's time to celebrate the annual Tom Brady Is Washed For Sure This Time: Buccaneers Edition! Is it possible that Brady and the Bucs lost a game they were supposed to lose?! We may never know (21:10). And finally, the debut of the Trash Take Hall of Fame. The inaugural inductee gets an unceremonious fleecing, as shall be the tradition henceforth (26:30).
BASEBALL'S UNWRITTEN RULES HAVE GONE TOO FAR THIS TIME, FOLKS. Tanya breaks down exactly what happened between the Padres and Rangers to cause the latest BS meltdown over baseball players doing their jobs well, and why the unwritten rules are more than just antiquated ... they're a sign of resistance to diversity and social change. (3:30) Then it's on to college sports again, where it's time to address the hypocrisy of adults asking kids and young adults to self-police during a pandemic that none of us know how to handle. (14:46) And finally, an FYI for other baseball fans who try to wrangle their way into the sacred Red Sox-Yankees rivalry. (21:35)
Tanya is back and kicking things off loudly with a condemnation of one BIG10 football coach who is the perfect example of dealing with COVID-19 in sports the wrong way. Then she breaks down Brett Favre's comments regarding kneeling in the NFL, and the journey of learning to have difficult conversations with people who are approaching highly emotional topics with ignorance but also in good faith. Things lighten up a bit with a good old roasting of Bucs fans, and finally, Tanya returns with her rant of the week -- in defense of goalies.
Almost Shameless is back at it now that everyone has settled into life in quarantine, and while there may be no sports happening at the moment, there is never a bad time to have a Bill Belichick, Tom Brady debate. Or is there? Tanya rips apart a rant by ESPN's Mike Greenberg, who believes the GOAT coach has to prove that he's still the GOAT without Brady. Then it's time to investigate what worked and what didn't with ESPN's 64-person bracket of All-Time College Basketball Players. Let's just say that it appears the kids have never heard of Lew Alcindor. And finally, Tanya welcomes fiance Chris Armendariz to the pod. He is a longtime ESPN video editor, but these days, their greatest mutual interest is binge-watching TV shows - and so they review everything they've watched start to finish since the start of quarantine.
We start out with a breakdown of the world in sports and at large as the United States comes to terms with the coronavirus outbreak, thanks in large part to Adam Silver and his leadership with the NBA (01:50). Tom Brady has officially left New England, it appears that everyone is sad about it and no one could do anything about it - and so Patriots Nation is left with a lot of questions and very few answers (08:52). Meanwhile, news broke that Brady plans to sign with the Buccaneers and Tanya reacts live (13:50). Plus, Bill O'Brien is still the worst GM in all of the NFL, much to the delight of the Arizona Cardinals, and Stefon Diggs just made the Bills potentially the best team in the AFC East (16:54).
Tanya opens things up in episode 5 with a loving, nerdy ode to voting before hitting on the big topic of the last 10 years -- WHAT THE F**K IS GOING ON WITH TOM BRADY AND WHY/HOW HAS HE BROKEN ALL THE REPORTERS?! (5:33). Then she breaks down the inherent flaws in choosing regular season NBA MVPs when legacies are created in the playoffs, and why what LeBron does this season will probably end up mattering more than what Giannis does (16:26). Finally, most definitely the weirdest rant to date. If you ever wanted to know how Tanya feels about sticking an earring on an ear of corn and calling it art -- today's your lucky day (25:15).
This week Tanya got herself in a weird Twitter beef with the "lunch pail mentality" establishment, so she explains her issue with the use of the phrase in relation to NFL players - and specifically, the decidedly-not-blue-collar New England Patriots (3:14). Then she goes over what it was like to watch the public memorial service for Kobe Bryant and Gianna Bryant, and how their deaths have reshaped her interpretation of his legacy and his destiny (11:20). Finally, what is the right thing to do when your waiter is very bad at their job and the service sucks?
It's mid February which means it's time for a ROUND UP of all the hottest stories so far this winter. We kick things off with Justin Turner and a whole host of baseball superstars getting very mad at their commissioner, so Tanya offers a little advice to the MLB (3:40). Then she breaks down what AP got right and wrong with their Male and Female Athletes of the Decade (12:30), rediscovers the joy of basketball thanks to 2020 NBA All-Star weekend (22:45) and gives the latest on the Tom Brady free agency saga that might never end (27:13). And finally... reality TV can be better, and here's how (31:12).
Everyone wants to know where Tom Brady might go but no one has a single good answer or any real insight so Tanya is controlling what she can ... which is figuring out who could actually be the quarterback of the New England Patriots in 2020 if the GOAT goes out to pasture. (04:13). Then she attempts her most daring feat to date .... fixing the MLB -- and the purists are not going to like it. You just might, though (19:24). And of course, what would the week after the Oscars be without a little complaining about Joaquin Phoenix and his aggressive, terrifying veganism rants? (29:21) That, and more, in the second episode of the revamped ASP with TRF.
The all new, rebranded, relaunched Almost Shameless podcast is finally here! Same Fox, just more of her. And new theme music! What better way to kick things off than with a full PUMPING of the breaks on the Chiefs dynasty talk. Mahomes is the real deal, but didn't we just do this a decade ago a QB in the NFC? ... Plus there are murmurings that Tom Brady might want to build a Super Team with all of his discarded offense buddies somewhere, but not so fast. Brady has it better with the Patriots than he seems to think? Finally, Tanya grapples with the life and legacy of Kobe Bryant.
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BREAKING NEWS: We finally got nice and asked someone important to join our podcast .... NFL Defensive Player of the Year candidate and All-Pro Patriots CB Devin McCourty joined us and it was glorious!
BUT FIRST... Sam Darnold was caught saying that he was “seeing ghosts” on Monday Night Football and we break down just how poorly the Jets handled themselves in the aftermath. (Yes, there will be ranting!) Then we hit on even more insane stats from the NFL’s best defense and break down the state of the offense in the wake of the trade for Mohamed Sanu. Finally, we chat with NFL interceptions leader and Patriots captain, Devin McCourty, who reiterated that he is NOT a fan of nicknames (we will persist anyway). And don’t miss our final thoughts, which include the Astros-Nationals World Series and the bitter end of LeBron’s Taco Tuesdays.
At long last, Fox & Fallon have done it ... an all Patriots podcast, people. It was our destiny. The Patriots improved to 6-0 on Thursday night with a 35-14 blowout of the Giants, so we did you the favor of breaking it all down. First we combine the stats with our expert eye test to examine just what is so special about this year's defense (04:50) and (07:18). Then we look at overreactions and major needs on the offense (13:50), and cut Tom Brady a little (a lot) of slack. Then we go through the rest of their 2019 schedule (23:54) to see which games they could realistically lose and make final season record predictions. And of course, we honor and celebrate Rob Gronkowski's epic debut on Fox Sports (29:12).
We kick it off with a victory lap over our perfect Patriots vs Bills prediction (00:44), then carry the New England talk into the breaking news that the champs have lost kicker Stephen Gostkowski for the season (08:00). Apparently his hips did lie ... with every extra point he missed. Then, we break down which of the 0-4 teams (14:49) in the NFL are most likely to fulfill their destiny by tanking and rebuilding. Spoiler alert, none of them seem ready to right the ship anytime in the near future. And of course we make the case for the Red Sox to pay Mookie Betts (23:20) and stop whining about the luxury tax. Time to pony up the cash, John Henry. This isn't Pittsburgh. Finally, we rattle off our quick hits on some spooky trending sports stories (31:05) that have us feeling the October Halloween vibes.
Melvin Gordon bet on himself and lost, and now every star running back will have him to thank for putting the nail in the proverbial franchise running back coffin. Then we break down what’s at stake in the biggest game in Buffalo since the mid 1990’s as the 3-0 Patriots come to town to battle it out with the 3-0 Bills, who are feeling themselves right now. And we take a look back at the Week of the backup QB and find a situation in Carolina that reminds us of a certain QB takeover in 2001 that changed the face of the NFL. Plus, Bill Belichick is still a dick to the media!
It's Week 3 so you know what that means... the referees are ruining everyone's day (06:00) because we can't figure out what we want from them. Is this our own fault at this point? Then Courtney and Tanya break down the Jalen Ramsey trade request (12:28) and where he can actually make the biggest difference. Hint: it's not in the AFC (16:19) Then we hit on the big topic of the week -- IS ELI MANNING A HALL OF FAMER?! The answer may surprise you. (Finally, Tanya makes an example of a Twitter hater who is out of his league, and Courtney hits her with the AMEN. PS: We love you David Ortiz, patron saint of the Fox & Fallon podcast. Let's hope in October that "thaaaaaa Jankees lose!"
We've hammered out 16 games of the brand-new 2019 NFL season, but no one stole the Week 1 headlines more than WR Antonio Brown (03:27) Courtney & Tanya react to his controversial move to the Patriots (6:50) and late-breaking news of Brown's alleged and disturbing rape allegations filed late Tuesday night (28:50). Phew. Ok, now that's over with... In lighter NFL news: Dalvin Cook is pretty damn good (12:07), the Dolphins are pretty damn bad (13:40), and the Steelers and Cardinals deserve a dunce cap in our AFC/NFC winners and losers (23:58); Tanya's ready to name Lamar Jackson as dark-horse favorite for MVP, and a PSA to Gronk: Stop teasing us on a comeback (33:26).
Fox & Fallon is BACK with a pre-NFL Week 1 recap of all the shenanigans that went down on the eve of the league's big 2019 debut. Bill O'Brien and the Houston Texans (03:06) left us scratching our heads as Monday morning QBs as the GM-less franchise dealt Jadeveon Clowney to the Seahawks, and gave away all of their draft capital. We discuss if it was the right move, plus another edition of Ezekiel Elliott vs. Jerry Jones inching closer to a conclusion (09:37), who will break first and sign a new deal? We continue to wrap up weekend thoughts on Brian Hoyer signing with the Indianapolis Colts (16:20), putting to rest ALL RUMORS that Rob Gronkowski will return (19:16) to the NFL this year (spoiler: he's not). And finally, Gerry the Generator drops by to give Courtney a few suggestions for her Fantasy Football team (23:33).
We get sidetracked introducing the show because we're just so all in on the Julian Edelman Showtime documentary (00:51). Shocking development, we know. The real talk kicks off with Baker Mayfield's comments in his GQ profile (06:41) -- apparently we haven't learned our lesson when it comes to Baker's elite trolling. Then Washington owner Dan Snyder is trying to duel the NFL into giving him more than a low first-rounder for Trent Williams (14:06). OKAY DUDE. And guess what guys? The Celtics are America's team ... at least for now. Will it last into the NBA season (21:26)? Plus people want to eat avocado with Tom Brady we guess? (28:38) and Dancing With The Stars has apparently run out of likable athletes to cast on their show and now we're all uncomfortable (32:31).
We kick things off by breaking down Jay-Z's first public statements after joining forces with Roger Goodell and the NFL, with whom he once feuded on behalf of Colin Kaepernick. My how things have changed!(03:21) Tom Brady recently said "hell no" to the idea of coaching, so we look ahead to examine some post-NFL scenarios for the GOAT ... spoiler alert, it all comes back to Belichick (16:00). On the West Coast, Jimmy Garoppolo is throwing all the interceptions and people are worried -- but Tanya thinks she knows exactly what's going on (23:30). And Aaron Rodgers doesn't think the people of Green Bay are drunk enough to enjoy the Packers underachieving (29:14). Finally, we hit on two things that have taken over our lives -- hard seltzer and wedding planning (33:16).
We've returned from our summer break ready for the first NFL season of the Fox & Fallon podcast, and we kick it off with none other than Tom Brady's controversial real estate dealings (03:17) and what it means for his future with the Patriots. Then we take sides in the epic Ezekiel Elliott contract showdown (07:10) with the Dallas Cowboys, and most importantly, we debut a new game that may just be our best one yet -- and yes, it does involve Artificial Intelligence (15:34). The robots are coming for us anyway, we might as well make sure they're NFL fans.
In an all football, all Gimmicks & Rants podcast, we begin by debuting our segment called “Echo Chamber” – where we take a unique approach to breaking down the NFL's decision not to suspend Tyreek Hill. Then "Crowd Noise" features Jim Harbaugh as Captain Obvious after media largely agrees with his comments about rival college football coach, Urban Meyer. Then we play an NFL preseason edition of "Would You Rather: Hot Take Roulette Vegas Style, and close out the show with our very heartfelt, very loud auditions for Taco Tuesday at Lebron's house.
The Thunder traded Russell Westbrook to the Rockets and Courtney is Michael Scott-levels of heartbroken that the Miami Heat are out of the running. We examine the debated spurred on by former NFL GM Mike Tannenbaum saying that Tom Brady had a more impressive 2018 season than Patrick Mahomes (hint: we really like both QBs) -- and then we take a deep dive into what the success of elite female athletes like Serena Williams and the USWNT means to each of us on a personal level in what might be our most vulnerable segment ever.
The Celtics made it official with Kemba Walker and Tanya and Courtney disagree on just what that means (1:26). Kawhi holds the fate of three NBA teams in his massive hands (7:06), Courtney suggests that maybe Woj is sharing trade secrets with NFL buddy Adam Schefter (12:02) and KD and Kyrie are together in Brooklyn -- for better or for worse (13:32)! Plus Gronk is skinny now, and we feel it's time to put to bed the comeback rumors (17:22). Finally, Tanya learned a humbling and valuable lesson on a Bird scooter this weekend (23:30).
Bryan Kalbrosky, writer for HoopsHype and managing editor for USA Today's NBA Wires, kicks off our postseason discussion by debunking the idea that the Warriors could be blamed for KD's injury (01:44). We deal with our doubt that Rob Pelinka knows what he's doing with the Lakers (09:54) and Bryan shreds any notion of a D'Angelo Russell, Kyrie Irving team up in Brooklyn (20:07). Then Tanya agrees with Charles Barkley in saying good riddance to LaVar Ball and his rusty drama (32:45), and Courtney keeps seeing her name in the news ... even when it's not actually her (36:27).
Breaking down some Raptors vs Warriors after the first two games (2:07) and of course work our way into the main even -- moody Drake (6:09). Then we debate whether the Red Sox season is already over in June as the Yankees continue to roll, and we end up on opposite sides of the argument (8:47). Adam Humphries said he didn't sign with the Patriots because he thinks Tom Brady's too old, so yeah... you can bet we hit on that (15:04). Plus 'Give Me More or Go Away' this week features both Tony Kornheiser and Juju Smith Schuster (18:45), and Chef CRF finally gets herself some east coast pizza.
Magic Johnson turned villain on the Lakers during an ESPN appearance (02:13). Is this actually good for LeBron James? Maybe, but with the Clippers looking like the better free agent destination, things could get worse before they get better. (07:51). Then we dig into Ben Roethlisberger's surprising apology to Antonio Brown, the newest chapter in the weird Adam Gase and Le'Veon Bell saga and Chris Long's post-retirement marijuana crusade. (14:39) We also let the listeners in on why the Bruins vs Blue Stanley Cup is historically compelling (24:22), before finally hitting special celebrity super-fan version of "Would You Rather?" in honor of Drake (32:06).
We give you our unfiltered, instant reactions to the shocking results of the NBA Draft lottery. Then we find ourselves in the bizarre position of defending Joe Flacco, and try to figure out what punishment Robert Kraft could possibly receive from the NFL commissioner at this point. Plus, Tiger Woods is back on his BS and coming for John Daly, Russell Wilson finally(?) bought his mom a house, and Brett Favre is very bad at fan service.
We dive into Tyronn Lue giving the Lakers the facepalm after their embarrassing contract offer (00:53), then Tanya offers her controversial but potentially genius plan for the Lakers' next head coach (03:44). Social media influencer and Boston sports super fan Abdul aka @Advil joins to discuss his Twitter relationship with the Patriots, among other things (08:40). Finally Odell Beckham and sports media humble braggers need to go away (24:55).
We rip into Kyrie for faking us into thinking he's not a trash leader (01:33), then we welcome Boston media pro Danny Picard onto to discuss the Bruins first trip to the Eastern Conference Finals since 2013 (10:13). Rodney Harrison was voted into the Patriots HOF before Vrabel and Seymour and people have opinions (26:16), the XFL is coming in hot (29:20), and then we welcome in our alter egos to discuss the athlete fashions at the 2019 MET Gala (34:52).
We review the insanity of the Kyler Murray, Josh Rosen situation (01:32), then serve up a little surprise audio of Tanya's LIVE reaction to the Patriots drafting N'Keal Harry (07:20). The Celtics and Kyrie Irving blew it in Game 2 but playoff Kyrie is bound to return (18:51). Plus, LeBron is freaking the Lakers out (22:03), & Tom Brady visited L.A. (25:04) Finally, Tanya went viral for hating L.A. sports fans & Courtney offers a truly unique take on all of the Game of Thrones spoilers. (32:08)
After a thrilling first night of the 2019 NFL Draft, we welcome NFL Network fantasy expert Michael Fabiano to discuss the night (1:43). Fabs tells us what the Cardinals can expect from Kyler Murray (2:23) and gives some Josh Rosen scoop (3:33). Will the Iowa tight ends be worth the hype (5:08) and can N'Keal Harry be Gronk's replacement (9:50). Plus, what happens to the Chiefs in a potentially post-Tyreek Hill world. (11:05) Finally, a good old fashioned Yankees vs Red Sox debate. (17:50).
We debate whether Kyrie Irving is the real deal now that the Celtics have swept the Pacers in another dominant first-round showing (00:29). Then Tanya thinks Magic Johnson's new old role with the Lakers might be exactly what he's meant to be doing (05:25) and Courtney sees the Yankees' injury woes as a window of opportunity for the struggling Red Sox (07:23). Finally, we take on the biggest stories heading into the NFL draft, debating who is the "brains" of the operation for the Raiders in Oakland (09:21) before trying to make sense of multiple conflicting reports regarding the Arizona Cardinals and Kyler Murray. (15:23). Pro tip: If you love The Office, definitely stick around til the end.
NFL schedule is out & the Browns hype is a lot. (2:00) Listeners shared their favorite 2019 games & we pick the best responses (5:53) including the Cowboys Patriots "Hate Bowl" (8:40). We also look forward to the Baker vs Darnold showdown (15:15) & have thoughts about the incestuous AFC East (23:02). Then we share which match-ups we're looking forward to (27:06) & the epic story of Tom Brady's b-day tweet to Courtney (34:00), Finally, we revive the Florida Man challenge (42:41).
SportsCenter legend, John Buccigross, joins to discuss Tiger Woods' insane Masters win and why Tiger means more to golf than Michael Phelps means to swimming. (00:45) Then he shares his expert opinion on the NHL playoffs and gives us a Stanley Cup prediction... and reminds us that Bruins fans don't appreciate Tuukka Rask enough. (19:00) Then we share final thoughts on the Tiger effect (29:00) and Courtney has mixed emotions about LeBron's new "vacation mode." (34:30)
Courtney and Tanya are back and prepping for Court’s (and Bill Belichick’s) birthday. Magic mic-dropped on the Lakers and quit in front of a Staples Center crowd (2:05). AB is a major bully and JuJu is still his target (6:42). The Red Sox and Pats had an epic duel celebration on opening day (10:30). Tanya proudly debuts the Hall of Game: Gronk edition (16:40). Finally, an ode to spring allergies and “reverse shitty manifesting” (27:07). PS, Kyrie sucks.
We honor Gronk in the wake of his retirement, discuss the homers turned haters who can't the HOF debate and Courtney wants everyone to #staywoke about a potential Gronk/Robert Kraft conspiracy theory. Then we share our thoughts on some major NFL rule changes this off-season. And it turns out Antonio Brown is a little peanut-butter-and-jealous of Juju Smith-Schuster, and we debate whether Jay Cutler actually smoked cigarettes.
It's free agency szn and we're breaking down our top 10 favorite and most explosive transactions of the off-season so far. Then Courtney puts Tanya through a hilariously distressing game of sports "Would You Rather?" that posits some truly absurd scenarios. And finally, Courtney comes out... as a March Madness hater. And she's not ashamed.
Antonio Brown is a Raider. Good luck with that, buddy. We also get into the never-ending saga that is LeBron vs Michael Jordan as the GOAT as well as the state of the Lakers and yeah we went there -- should they trade almighty King James? Also, Jose Canseco is trying to break up A-Rod's engagement to J-Lo and it's glorious.
We discuss our reunion as sport media partners in crime in Los Angeles. We debate whether Gronk is a first ballot Hall of Famer and talk a little Joe Flacco to the Broncos. Courtney re-lives her night out in Hollywood with the starstruck McCourty twins and Tanya saw all her coworkers' books at Barnes' & Noble at the same time.