Let's Talk Ball!
Let's Talk Ball!

Let's Talk Ball!

Cody Alexander & Felix Johnson

Overview
Episodes

Details

High-level football discussion for coaches and serious fans. Join Cody Alexander of MatchQuarters and Felix Johnson as they break down defensive schemes, offensive trends, and interview the best minds in the game — the home for real X's and O's talk.

www.matchquarters.com

Recent Episodes

Week 14 Reactions: CFP Bracket Breakdown, Chiefs Offensive Struggles, & Jalen Hurts struggles
DEC 10, 2025
Week 14 Reactions: CFP Bracket Breakdown, Chiefs Offensive Struggles, & Jalen Hurts struggles
<p>Analyzing Indiana’s defensive disguise, Jalen Hurts’ issues against the blitz, and diagnosing the Chiefs' offensive collapse.</p><p>—</p><p><strong><em>In this episode:</em></strong></p><p><strong>- CFP Bracket Reaction:</strong> We break down the playoff seeding, the “drunk” ACC, and preview key first-round matchups like Alabama vs. Oklahoma.</p><p><strong>- Indiana’s Defensive Scheme:</strong> A deep dive into how Indiana’s defense utilized unique coverages to limit Ohio State and Jeremiah Smith.</p><p><strong>- Coaching Carousel:</strong> Thoughts on the final spins of the coaching carousel, including Colin Klein returning to his alma mater, Kansas State.</p><p><strong>- Chiefs in Crisis:</strong> Analyzing Kansas City’s offensive struggles, defensive regression without an effective pass rush, and whether the dynasty is truly fading.</p><p><strong>- Eagles & Hurts Issues:</strong> Diagnosing Jalen Hurts’ poor performance against the Chargers and his struggles throwing into the middle of the field.</p><p>—</p><p><strong><em>Timestamps:</em></strong></p><p>00:00 - Intro: College Football Playoff Reaction </p><p>06:30 - The “Drunk” ACC & Duke’s Championship Win </p><p>08:40 - Coaching Carousel: Colin Klein Returns to K-State </p><p>11:48 - CFP Bracket Reveal: G5 Teams & The “Paper Tiger” NCAA </p><p>16:20 - CFP First Round Previews: Alabama vs. Oklahoma & Texas A&M </p><p>20:00 - Heisman Talk & NFL Draft QB Implications </p><p>23:20 - Scheme Deep Dive: How Indiana’s Defense Stifled Ohio State </p><p>25:44 - NFL: Colts vs. Jaguars & The Anthony Richardson Injury Fallout </p><p>32:55 - Are the Chiefs in Trouble? (Offensive Struggles & Veach’s Moves) </p><p>41:25 - Shedeur Sanders, The Browns, and Titans </p><p>44:45 - Broncos vs. Raiders: PS2’s Dominance & “Boring” Wins </p><p>49:00 - Commanders Regression: Kliff Kingsbury & Defensive Issues </p><p>52:00 - NFC South: Saints, Bucs & The “Dirty Birds” </p><p>55:00 - Ravens vs. Steelers: Lamar’s Struggles & Tomlin’s Defense </p><p>57:50 - Bengals vs. Bills: Snow Game & Josh Allen’s Offense </p><p>01:00:30 - Dolphins Defense & Tua’s First Cold Weather Win </p><p>01:02:08 - Seahawks vs. Falcons: Nickel Play & Pass Rush </p><p>01:05:37 - Bears vs. Packers: Caleb Williams vs. Jordan Love </p><p>01:08:30 - Rams vs. Cardinals: Kyler Murray & Gannon’s Defense </p><p>01:10:00 - MNF Deep Dive: Jalen Hurts’ Issues vs. The Blitz </p><p>01:13:35 - TNF Preview: Falcons vs. Bucs & Outro</p><p>—</p><p><em>» Join Felix and Cody each Wednesday as we dive deep into the game we love!</em></p><p><em>MatchQuarters </em>is a reader-supported publication. So, make sure to subscribe.</p><p>—</p><p>© 2025 <em>MatchQuarters</em> | Cody Alexander | All rights reserved.</p> <br/><br/>This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit <a href="https://www.matchquarters.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&#38;utm_campaign=CTA_2">www.matchquarters.com/subscribe</a>
play-circle icon
74 MIN
Week 13 Reactions: Is the Lions' Window Closing? Plus, Texas Playoff Hopes & The Chiefs' Offensive Problems
DEC 3, 2025
Week 13 Reactions: Is the Lions' Window Closing? Plus, Texas Playoff Hopes & The Chiefs' Offensive Problems
<p>Breakdowns of the CFB coaching carousel, why Jalen Hurts and Lamar Jackson struggle vs. the blitz, and the Packers' defensive evolution.</p><p>—</p><p><strong><em>In this episode:</em></strong></p><p><strong>Lane Kiffin to LSU:</strong> We break down the major coaching moves, including Kiffin taking the LSU job and John Sumrall heading to Florida.</p><p><strong>Cowboys Upset the Chiefs:</strong> An analysis of how the Cowboys’ defense stifled Patrick Mahomes and why the Chiefs continue to struggle in the “middle eight”.</p><p><strong>The Lions’ Collapse:</strong> A look at Dan Campbell’s questionable playcalling, the Packers completing the sweep, and why Detroit is in danger of missing the playoffs.</p><p><strong>QBs vs. The Blitz:</strong> We discuss why mobile quarterbacks like Jalen Hurts and Lamar Jackson are seeing the highest blitz rates in the league and struggling to counter them.</p><p><strong>Texas & The SEC:</strong> A recap of the Texas defense stepping up against A&M and the reality check facing the Longhorns in their new conference.</p><p>—</p><p><strong><em>Timestamps:</em></strong></p><p>00:00 Intro: NFL Coaches & Playbooks</p><p>04:16 Texas Defense shuts down A&M</p><p>07:51 Coaching Carousel: Lane Kiffin to LSU & John Sumrall to Florida</p><p>12:54 Pete Golding & The Future of Ole Miss Defense</p><p>16:05 Chiefs vs. Cowboys Recap: Why KC lost the “Middle 8”</p><p>18:49 How Eberflus Fixed the Cowboys Defense</p><p>27:37 Packers Sweep the Lions & Dan Campbell’s Playcalling Issues</p><p>32:06 Bears Upset Eagles & Caleb Williams’ Game Management</p><p>34:22 Why Jalen Hurts & Lamar Jackson Struggle vs. The Blitz</p><p>40:32 Bengals Defense Forces 5 Turnovers vs. Ravens</p><p>42:03 The AFC South Race: Texans, Colts & Jags</p><p>46:07 Quick Hit: Falcons vs. Jets 46:59 Rams vs. Panthers & Bryce Young</p><p>49:47 Browns vs. 49ers</p><p>52:14 Cardinals vs. Bucs</p><p>54:31 Seahawks Dominate Vikings & Kevin O’Connell’s Struggles</p><p>55:50 Bills vs. Steelers & Josh Allen</p><p>57:52 Broncos Win Again vs. Commanders</p><p>01:03:00 TNF Preview: Cowboys vs. Lions</p><p>01:06:37 Outro</p><p>—</p><p><em>» Join Felix and Cody each Wednesday as we dive deep into the game we love!</em></p><p><em>MatchQuarters </em>is a reader-supported publication. So, make sure to subscribe.</p><p>—</p><p>© 2025 <em>MatchQuarters</em> | Cody Alexander | All rights reserved.</p> <br/><br/>This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit <a href="https://www.matchquarters.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&#38;utm_campaign=CTA_2">www.matchquarters.com/subscribe</a>
play-circle icon
67 MIN
Week 12 Reactions: "Everything is a Lie", The Rams' Defense, Texans' Violence, & Caleb’s Evolution
NOV 26, 2025
Week 12 Reactions: "Everything is a Lie", The Rams' Defense, Texans' Violence, & Caleb’s Evolution
<p>Cody and Felix analyze the Rams' "lie" defense and the Texans' physicality. Plus, previews for Ohio State vs. Michigan, Chiefs-Cowboys, and the full NFL Thanksgiving slate.</p><p>—</p><p><strong><em>In this episode:</em></strong></p><p>- Texas & Oregon’s Ascent: We discuss how Texas is peaking at the right time with Arch Manning and analyze Oregon’s evolution into a “new blue blood” under Dan Lanning.- "The Game" Preview: We break down the Ohio State vs. Michigan matchup, highlighting the Buckeyes’ dominance and Michigan’s schematic regression under Wink Martindale.- Defensive Philosophies: We contrast the Houston Texans’ physical, “punch you in the face” style with the Los Angeles Rams’ deceptive, “everything is a lie” coverage disguises.- Rookie QB Realities: We examine the developmental paths of young quarterbacks, comparing Caleb Williams’ need for structured creativity against JJ McCarthy’s statistical struggles.- Thanksgiving Slate & Eagles Panic: We preview the holiday weekend games, predict a Chiefs win over Dallas, and discuss why the Philadelphia Eagles might be on the verge of a collapse.</p><p>—</p><p><strong><em>Timestamps:</em></strong></p><p>00:00 Intro & Thanksgiving Break Chaos 01:10 Texas Dominance & Arch Manning’s Ascent 04:38 Oklahoma’s Defensive Identity vs. Mizzou 10:20 Can Lincoln Riley Fix USC? 12:26 Dan Lanning & Oregon as a “New Blue Blood” 17:00 The Game: Ohio State vs. Michigan Preview 19:33 The Wild ACC Playoff Picture 23:29 Texans Defense: “Punch You in the Face” Style 26:02 JJ McCarthy’s Struggles & Vikings Issues 30:09 Jameis Winston & The Value of Backup QBs 35:32 Chiefs Find a Way (Again) & Latu’s Interceptions 39:41 The Patriots’ Historic Defensive Run 44:21 Is JSN the Best Receiver in the NFL? 45:16 Caleb Williams: Genius vs. Structure 51:26 Saints, Taysom Hill, & 13 Personnel Obsession 54:08 Don’t Sleep on the Cardinals Defense 56:37 Rams vs. Bucs: “Everything is a Lie” Scheme 59:31 Ravens vs. Jets: A Win is a Win 1:01:44 Cowboys Stun the Eagles: Comeback Analysis 1:07:42 Thanksgiving Preview: Packers vs. Lions 1:08:52 Preview: Bengals vs. Ravens 1:10:09 Thanksgiving Preview: Chiefs vs. Cowboys</p><p>—</p><p><em>» Join Felix and Cody each Wednesday as we dive deep into the game we love!</em></p><p><em>MatchQuarters </em>is a reader-supported publication. So, make sure to subscribe.</p><p>—</p><p>© 2025 <em>MatchQuarters</em> | Cody Alexander | All rights reserved.</p> <br/><br/>This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit <a href="https://www.matchquarters.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&#38;utm_campaign=CTA_2">www.matchquarters.com/subscribe</a>
play-circle icon
73 MIN
Week 11 Reactions: JJ Can't Throw Left, Beating Zone Pressure, & The “Fake Tough” Teams
NOV 19, 2025
Week 11 Reactions: JJ Can't Throw Left, Beating Zone Pressure, & The “Fake Tough” Teams
<p>Cody and Felix discuss James Franklin to Virginia Tech, the Broncos stun the Chiefs, and Josh Allen's historic day. Plus, film analysis on why J.J. McCarthy can't throw left.</p><p>—</p><p><strong><em>In this episode:</em></strong></p><p>* React to the breaking news of James Franklin becoming the next head coach at Virginia Tech and discuss the future of the program.</p><p>* Analyze the Broncos’ stunning upset win over the Chiefs, focusing on how Bo Nix handled Kansas City’s zone pressures.</p><p>* Break down Josh Allen’s historic six-touchdown performance against the Buccaneers and why the Buffalo defense remains a concern.</p><p>* Discuss the Vikings’ struggles, specifically highlighting film evidence that rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy cannot throw to his left.</p><p>Preview the upcoming Thursday Night Football matchup between the Texans and the Bills, looking at how Houston’s defense matches up on a short week.</p><p>—</p><p><strong><em>Timestamps:</em></strong></p><p>00:00 - Intro & Commanders vs. Dolphins: An “Overtime Thriller” </p><p>03:57 - Breaking News: James Franklin to Virginia Tech </p><p>08:58 - SEC Recap: Texas falls to Georgia & the state of the conference </p><p>11:41 - Texas A&M: Can Marcel Reed win a title? </p><p>15:11 - Oklahoma beats Bama again & Venables’ defense </p><p>16:43 - Cal & Indiana: Fernando Mendoza and Curt Cignetti’s success </p><p>18:59 - Bucs vs. Bills: Josh Allen’s historic 6-touchdown day </p><p>25:14 - Packers vs. Giants: Panic in Green Bay? </p><p>30:34 - Panthers vs. Falcons: Why Atlanta’s defense collapsed </p><p>33:10 - Michael Penix injury update & the Kirk Cousins contract </p><p>36:59 - Bears vs. Vikings: Brian Flores vs. Caleb & J.J. McCarthy’s fatal flaw </p><p>40:10 - Rams vs. Seahawks: McVay wins, Darnold throws 4 picks </p><p>43:46 - Broncos stun the Chiefs: Bo Nix vs. Spags’ zone pressure </p><p>51:48 - Jaguars vs. Chargers: LA needs tackles </p><p>53:19 - Lions vs. Eagles: Vic Fangio’s defense dominates </p><p>56:25 - AFC North: Flacco vs. Rodgers & Steelers/Bengals </p><p>58:21 - Thursday Night Football Preview: Texans vs. Bills </p><p>01:00:28 - Breaking: Victor Wembanyama out 2-3 weeks</p><p>—</p><p><em>» Join Felix and Cody each Wednesday as we dive deep into the game we love!</em></p><p><em>MatchQuarters </em>is a reader-supported publication. So, make sure to subscribe.</p><p>—</p><p>© 2025 <em>MatchQuarters</em> | Cody Alexander | All rights reserved.</p> <br/><br/>This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit <a href="https://www.matchquarters.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&#38;utm_campaign=CTA_2">www.matchquarters.com/subscribe</a>
play-circle icon
65 MIN
Week 10 Reactions: Are the Patriots the AFC's Most Dominant Team? and More!
NOV 12, 2025
Week 10 Reactions: Are the Patriots the AFC's Most Dominant Team? and More!
<p>A full NFL Week 10 recap! Are the Patriots the AFC's best? <strong>Plus</strong>: McVay's new offense, college's "singular toe" catch, and a Jets-Pats preview.</p><p>—</p><p><strong><em>In this episode:</em></strong></p><p>* Break down college football’s wildest moments, including Indiana’s “singular toe” game-winning catch and USC’s “cheeky” fake punt number switch that the Big Ten later admitted was illegal.</p><p>* Analyze the muddled AFC picture, noting the Dolphins “flipped the script” on the Bills and the Broncos’ offense looks “pitiful” despite their 8-2 record.</p><p>* Dive into the NFC West, highlighting Sean McVay’s successful pivot to 12 and 13 personnel with the Rams and Mike Macdonald’s “genius” Seahawks defense, which ranks as a top-five pressure team despite being bottom-ten in blitzing.</p><p>* Make the case for the New England Patriots being the true dominant team in the AFC, crediting the coaching of Mike Vrabel and the MVP-caliber play of rookie quarterback Drake May.</p><p>* Preview the Thursday Night Football matchup between the Jets and Patriots, predicting a “grimy game” and taking the under, but framing it as a game the Patriots must win to prove they are the AFC’s top team.</p><p>—</p><p><strong><em>Timestamps:</em></strong></p><p>00:15 - Texas Tech’s “East Coast 3-4” Defense </p><p>01:43 - Penn State vs. Indiana & “The Singular Toe” </p><p>01:57 - Breaking Down the “Catch of the Century” </p><p>02:20 - Should the NFL Adopt the One-Foot Rule? </p><p>04:18 - USC’s “Cheeky” Fake Punt & Illegal Number Switch </p><p>05:53 - “If You Ain’t Cheating, You Ain’t Trying” </p><p>06:23 - Memphis Upset & the G5 NIL Gap </p><p>09:56 - The American Conference as the “P6” </p><p>12:19 - TNF Recap: Broncos’ “Pitiful” Offense </p><p>14:05 - Is Bo Nix Holding the Broncos Back? </p><p>14:38 - Is it a Sean Payton Problem or a Bo Nix Problem? </p><p>16:43 - Colts vs. Falcons: Jonathan Taylor is the Engine </p><p>17:40 - Michael Penix’s Struggles with Protection Calls </p><p>19:47 - Dolphins “Flip the Script” and Dominate the Bills </p><p>21:13 - Is There a Dominant Team in the AFC? </p><p>23:12 - Rams Dominate 49ers with a New Offensive Pivot </p><p>23:46 - Sean McVay’s Shift to 12 & 13 Personnel </p><p>25:08 - Are the Rams the NFC’s Most Dangerous Team? </p><p>25:49 - Mike Macdonald’s “Genius” Seahawks Defense </p><p>29:46 - DeMarcus Lawrence’s “Rebirth” </p><p>30:53 - Seahawks D: Top 5 Pressure, Bottom 10 Blitz Rate </p><p>32:02 - Browns vs. Jets... “Somebody Had to Win” </p><p>34:02 - Texans Beat Jaguars; Davis Mills’ Weird Stat </p><p>36:18 - Making the Case: The Patriots are the AFC’s Best </p><p>37:09 - Drake May: “A Baby Josh Allen” & MVP Candidate </p><p>39:34 - Why Mike Vrabel is a “Coach’s Coach” </p><p>43:23 - Caleb Williams’ 4th Quarter Heroics vs. Giants </p><p>43:38 - Jackson Dart’s 4th Concussion </p><p>46:07 - NFL Week 10 Quick Hits: Lions, Saints, & Panthers </p><p>47:23 - SNF: Chargers Beat Steelers </p><p>48:28 - The Vikings: A “Week-to-Week” NFL </p><p>49:12 - Thursday Night Preview: Jets vs. Patriots </p><p>50:21 - Final Predictions: A “Grimy Game”</p><p>—</p><p><em>» Join Felix and Cody each Wednesday as we dive deep into the game we love!</em></p><p><em>MatchQuarters </em>is a reader-supported publication. So, make sure to subscribe.</p><p>—</p><p>© 2025 <em>MatchQuarters</em> | Cody Alexander | All rights reserved.</p> <br/><br/>This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit <a href="https://www.matchquarters.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&#38;utm_campaign=CTA_2">www.matchquarters.com/subscribe</a>
play-circle icon
55 MIN