Shows
Rugby PickEmTen Dumb Questions - MLR 2025We've covered the MLR since its inception in 2018. Written all types of articles, in-person match reports and the occasional player interview.... but the focus this year will be asking questions.... After all, asking questions, makes for good dialogue.
Carl Sagan said “There is no such thing as a dumb question”. Sagan believed that every question is a way to better understand the world, and that asking questions is important.
We're on a mission to find 10 "dumb" questions about Major League Rugby, and peel back the onion a bit. Let's dive into the 2025 season...
Can Anthem make the playoffs in year 2?
Does...2025-02-1821 min
Rugby PickEmCollege Rugby at its Finest (ft. John Fitzpatrick of Rugby Morning)The 2024 CRC's did not disappoint. A uniquely American tournament format featured a "win and advance" style of bracket, and the excitement that came with the high stakes was exhilarating.
Premier Division -
1st Place: Wheeling
Back in January, Aaron Juma and Joe Iye led the Great Lakes NCR all star team to a cup final in Round Rock Texas. The two players dominance continued this weekend as Wheeling blew through their Saturday & Sunday competition. Juma is ready for the next level, and should be considered for a PR 7's contract this summer.
With 10 players from Zimbabwe and South Africa coach...2024-04-2828 min
Rugby PickEmFreeJacks Tripped and Fell (ft. Bozo6 of the Jacks Rangers)After winning 14 straight, the defending champs lost at the death in their home opener against rival Old Glory D.C. Jason Robertson was clutch down the stretch and drilled the game winning kick with no time on the clock. It was truly a game winning conversion (they were down 1, not tied), and it silenced a rowdy crowd in Quincy. Not only did Robertson's boot come up clutch, but he facilitated just about all of their tries (as a good fly-half does).
This shakes up the "Power Structure" on the Eastern Front (see below). It's going to take more than 1 (1 point...2024-03-1429 min
Rugby PickEmAnthem Rugby Carolinas #NueroplasticityHistorical Record: 0-0
Week 1 Result: 46-13 Loss to New England Free Jacks
Skinny: This team was put together in the final minutes of the offseason. Any wins would be outstanding considering the short timeline they were put together. World Rugby has agreed to fund the team for four years, and shows a commitment to a partnership between MLR, USA Rugby and World Rugby. One win would be sweet, multiple wins would be fantastic ... a quarterfinal appearance ... year 1 bliss. The team will have to learn on the fly. That's why we've chosen #Neuroplasticity as their 2024 hashtag. The ability of neural networks...2024-03-0508 min
Rugby PickEmDeath, Survival & Rebirth - MLR 2024Two teams folded (for now). One team packed up and relocated to the sunny hills of L.A. Another new team in the Queen City with a focus on young American MLR minutes. After Glendale came and went, followed by Gilly-Gate, did anyone actually think the MLR Front Office timeline could get any wackier?
Yet here we are. Year 7 loading and the shield has never looked shinier. With World Rugby's decision to financially back Anthem Rugby Carolinas, we've been tapped as the rugby union of the future (fingers crossed it will all work out). Will the 2031 RWC be a smashing...2024-03-0205 min
Rugby PickEmLe Shane Williams 'Tiny Dance' of Le TourneyWhat makes a great winger? Is it the ability to beat the best defenses? The slight of foot, and dashing balance as they navigate through a trove of stout defenders? What about a lethal step, or an unimaginable field vision?
Uncle Johnny was in studio to flesh out who Le Shane Williams 'Tiny Dancer' of Le Tournament is for this dazzling affair in France the past few weeks. While many names come straight into mind (.... think RWC 2019 final when Owen Farrell got spun around like a ballerina) ... John has his list of names both old and new who were in...2023-10-1113 min
Rugby PickEmThe French Immersion (ft. Uncle Johnny)Bt & Uncle Johnny recap what has been an exquisite month of Rugby World Cup action in the home country of France. From sharing a suite with hot & sweaty Irish lads, to close encounters with Jellyfish in the famous Basque country surf, the lads give the blow by blow of what has been a fantastic RWC. Que Magnifique!
We recap rounds 1-4, and preview what is being dubbed as the "pre-quarterfinals" this weekend. Hang onto your hats.
PICKEM!2023-10-0641 min
Rugby PickEmRWC 2023 - Year of the DOGLadies and Gents, it's here. The event we've been waiting for. The Rugby World Cup in France.
Rugby Reddit Internet Scholars (we're talkin' 21st century academia baby) are dubbing this one the year of the UNDERDOGS. Teams that have yet to sniff a RWC Final are predicted to shine and break through the boring traditional mold. Who will be barking and groveling for treats (remember, dog theme) come the knock out rounds in October?
For those that don't know (or choose to conveniently forget, I'm looking at you European Rugby fans), only 4 total teams have hoisted the trophy over the...2023-09-0712 min
Rugby PickEmBroccoli Guy - Seattle Sports SuperFanSometimes, an interview is so big ... so massive and emotional ... so monumental and groundbreaking ... that you simply can't edit & publish it in the following hours. No, sometimes the weight of the moment is simply too grand ... it needs to simmer, and grow with the wild and fantastical rise of the individual.
Presenting Broccoli Guy. Ladies and Gentleman "We Got Him".
The interview was aptly conducted in his car (in a hotel parking lot) back in the summer of 2021. The man (myth & legend) they call Jim Stewart Allen was everything one could imagine and more.
In the summer of 2021, the club...2023-08-0834 min
Rugby PickEmLane PruisnerLane Pruisner IS IOWA. From the Corn Fields of Ankeny, to Fort Dodge and now Jonesboro Arkansas, rugby has been a leading driver in Lane's young adult life.
His adventures brought him to Denver Colorado this summer where he competed with the Denver Barbarians 7's and worked full time as a civil engineer (specializing in corrosion prevention).
Hear about his journey, the challenges he faced this summer and other general nonsense in this RRS Special of Rugby PickEm.
Enjoy,
PICKEM!2023-08-0330 min
Rugby PickEmNuero Feedback (ft. Reed Ronan)Founded in 2022, Ronan Neurofeedback and Counseling was formed primarily to help athletes struggling with mental health issues, concussion symptoms, and injury recovery on and off the field. Ronan Neurofeedback and Counseling also works with non-athletes seeking an alternative to medication who want to improve their health, brain functioning, and overall mental well-being.
Reed & I sat down for an insightful chat about how athletes can do more than simply train their bodies ... they can train their brains & minds as well.
Enjoy. PICKEM!2023-07-3039 min
Rugby PickEmPremier Rugby 7's (ft. John Fitzpatrick of Rugby Morning)Premier Rugby 7's had their first event in the fall of 2021 in Memphis Tennessee. Since then, it has grown steadily and expanded to 5 total events for the summer of 2023. With new butt kickin' franchise names (look no further than the Pittsburgh Steeltoes) and an infusion of talent, the new league has delivered a fun product without the morning to nightfall commitment that usually comes with a traditional 7's tournament.
A competitive format that plunges straight into the semifinals makes for a "win or go home" environment where every pass, tackle, and breath count. John Fitzpatrick of the Rugby Morning dives...2023-07-2642 min
Rugby PickEmMLR Year 6 - Eastern Conference BOLD PredictionsStriking Gold
King Creole is ready for that postseason smoke
NOLA Gold have been a founding member and have always been on the cusp of the playoffs. They have talent in the back row, and have signed some key collegiate players to bolster the squad. King Creole and his marching band have high expectations for a team that has been oh so close for o so long.
Bold Prediction: NOLA Gold finish top 2 in the East. They will host a playoff game at the Gold Mine in late June or early July (hot, swampy and stanky hot conditions). Devin Short...2023-02-1515 min
Rugby PickEmMLR Year 6 - Western Conference BOLD PredictionsWestern Expansion
The Hounds have been released, but how will they fare in 2023? The 2022 expansion team went 0-16 but seems to be building a strong fanbase. The 2021 expansion team smashed the league, nabbed the shield, but now are a relic of the past. Given the fact that Chicago inherited two top sides in the west via the "Expansion Draft", they'll be expected to compete for a playoff spot.
Bold Prediction: Chicago wins the west in their first year. No one will be hungrier to win now than the players and coaches that got dumped in the GillyGate decision last year...2023-02-1514 min
Rugby PickEmSpecial Thanks to the Fans (Ft. Tommy's Philosophies)We hope you've been enjoying the recent episodes with Uncle Johnny, Tommy NoPiks and HARPO in person, live & in the flesh. 2022 has proven to be a crazy rugby year, but we simply wanted to thank all the fans that continue to listen to Rugby PickEm and occasionally go and click around the website (www.rugbypickem.com).
It's been a long strange journey since April 2018, but it's been 5 years of good fun and banter. We cap the 2022 year with a thanks to the fans, and an experimental segment aptly named "Tommy's Philosophies"....
More RP on the way in 2023 including coverage of...2023-01-1814 min
Rugby PickEmThe Attitude Adjusters AssociationIt was June in 1983, and the soon to be burgeoning game of rugby 7's was waiting for it's inevitable explosion. Luckily for the soon to be 7's sensations, he arrived in the form of Dr. Don HARPO and the Attitude Adjusters Association. Back when Life U was just a small chiropractic college (and not the deeply talented rugby program they are in 2023) HARPO recruited a team to compete in local 7's tournaments.
"We played for the love of the game" ... was a line he continued to repeat as we talked about everything that goes into 7's organizing. The w-w-w-work, is...2023-01-1318 min
Rugby PickEm2021 Women's RWC (in 2022)The Women's 2021 RWC (held in 2022) was an unforgettable kiwi experience. Not only is New Zealand a beautiful country (flora, fauna & great people), but rugby runs through their veins. The hosts were spectacular, and the Black Ferns put on a show throughout. They defeated a great French side in an exciting semi final, followed by a world class performance against England in the final.
The Women's Eagles left it all on the pitch, but it wasn't enough to beat a stout Canadian side. Led by Canadian rugby royalty Sophie de Goede, the team played big against the USA, defeating them twice...2022-12-1713 min
Rugby PickEmThe Rise & Fall of Gilly GillyHave we ever seen a bigger lighting rod of a character in the USA Rugby landscape than Adam Gilchrist? Love him or hate him ... there's no denying that he shook up the league (to put it lightly) in the two years of his rise and fall. We recapped the last year of the two Gil franchises, and discussed what Gilly's legacy will be years from now. From entering the league with a huge bang in 2020 (launching not one but TWO teams and rebranding them in his vanity), to breaching the salary cap and being voted out by his fellow MLR...2022-12-1512 min
Rugby PickEmOperation 'Hope for the Best' - ft HARPOThe full compliment of RP personalities were back in studio for a heated discussion that somehow remained cautiously optimistic! Although the men's Eagles did not qualify for France 2023, we are reminded that not all is lost, and sometimes it truly is darkest before the dawn (scientifically accurate).
The questions that were tossed around (Tommy's arm is still sore) were ...
How can the the men's Eagles find their own identity in the 5 years leading up to Australia in 2027?
Who would be the best fit to lead them?
Can the days of NAFTA be restored through Rugby Mexico and the Serpientes?
How...2022-12-1417 min
Rugby PickEmDenver Barbarians vs. American Raptors - The Local DarbyOn Saturday, 4/23/22, the Denver Barbarians will play against the American Raptors. The teams have played on and off since 2007, and each time they square up against each other, the rugby fans of Denver Colorado benefit.
Since 2007, the competitions have morphed and shaped year to year (see below). The product always seemed to be elite level clubs on the cusp of professionalism. With the PRO Rugby formation (and quick disintegration) in 2016, everything changed. The two teams have not played consistently since 2016 and Saturday's game looks to change that.
Super League
Elite Cup (2012)
Pacific Rugby Premiership
PRO Rugby
MLR
Professionals vs. Amateur...2022-04-2232 min
Rugby PickEmThree Screens Are Better Than One - MLR Update (ft. Tommy NoPiks)Over the past 6 weeks, we've been watching the games and keeping a temperature on the early part of the 2021 MLR season. On Saturday night, Bt and Tommy NoPiks sat down to take in 3 games at once (4 games if you count the 2nd half of the Cali Cup).
Much to the chagrin of our dear friend (the 2020 "Blogger of the Year" RPA winner) and seasoned rugby reporter Bryan Ray, the MLR decided to load up Saturday night's slate of games. While Bryan prefers the game schedule to be laid out over the course of an entire weekend, we strongly disagree... What...2022-03-2114 minRugby PickEmMLR 2022 - Year of the PlayerMLR 2022 - Year of the Player
(ft. Colton Strickler DNVR Rugby)
4 Themes and 'Motifs' for the upcoming season ...
1. Shift in Player Power - Monetizing Individual Brands
It's no secret that MLR Salary caps are low relative to its European counterparts. This will push players to try and maximize their potential income, on and off the pitch. We've already seen star caliber players bring their talents stateside to help build their brand. In 2022, expect just about every type of player (from aging star to young bucks taking the leap from college) to monetize their name image and likeness off the pitch...2022-02-051h 22
Rugby PickEmJalen Tatum - Rugby ATLWhat if I told you the future of Rugby ATL was a lacrosse convert, who's ripped up & shredded (like cheese), loves a good bump off, ... oh yeah and he's not just a great dude, but also perhaps a fashion and trend setting icon ..... ?
It's Jalen Tatum and he's heading towards a try zone near you!
Don't you DARE Run it Straight at this Man.
Jalen and I linked up this past fall in the U-23 pathways camp. From the moment he showed up to the camp, I had a feeling there was something special to this absolute unit of a...2022-01-2813 min
Rugby PickEmThe 2021 Rugby PickEm Awards (The 2nd Annual RPA's)A touch late on the "end of year" publication, but ... oh well. The deliberations were fiery, no stone was left unturned, and the final pieces to this year's awards have come into place. What a year 2021 was .., and where to begin?
In the face of a pandemic, the MLR went 99-0 (Commish's favorite stat), Gilly hoisted some hardware, the Pioneers got to compete in Tokyo after a year delay, PR 7's was launched, & the college game returned (even though the political infighting continues) ...
How does one cap a big year? The 2nd annual RPA's. No serious analysis involved, just some...2022-01-131h 19Rugby PickEmMatt Johnston - International Sevens Game AnalystAs professional rugby intersects with the information age, statistical trends and historical data are crucial to the success or failure of a professional team. At the test level, coaches and selectors are handed a treasure trove of information about their player pool. All of this comes to life on the back of a talented rugby analyst.
Matt Johnston (Aussie by birth, but currently morphed into a global ambassador for footy) is one of the most knowledgeable rugby analysts I had ever met to date. Better yet, he was patient and kind enough to walk me through some of the areas...2021-12-3032 min
Rugby PickEmIsaiah Ashley (Rugby Rent Scholarships #1)When you start something (without the full plan of what it's going to look like), you get results that are often unquantifiable. After all, you didn't establish the ground work. You don't know what a "success or failure" looks like. You haven't done the hard work that goes into laying out a coherent, justified, deliberate end goal.
Begin with the end in mind.
And it's not just the long term vision ... good execution comes down to the little details. Long before we launched the Rugby Rent Scholarships website in July of 2021, Isaiah Ashley had already been in touch about playing...2021-12-2832 min
Rugby PickEmEnd of Year Blizzard of Content ...As is Rugby PickEm tradition, we give our listeners (and readers?) an end of year blizzard of content before the year ends. The following is an recap/update on the 2021 fall season. Over the next few days, we'll keep the feed fresh with some old interviews we did throughout the year. What a year it was.
Rugby PickEm stayed busy in the fall of 2021, but here are some behind the scenes stuff that has grabbed most of our time and attention.
1) Coaching Grassroots Rugby
We've always been a grassroots first podcast. In the rugby world, one reaps what one sews...2021-12-2810 min
Rugby PickEm2022 MLR Schedj Release (Three Teams, One Cup)With the release of the 2022 Major League Rugby season, fans can now decide where to spend their hard earned money come early February. Last year, with the pandemic, and other unknowns throwing wrenches into just about every teams planning, the season started later, and some teams were not able to host fans for the first few months. But 2022 offers a fresh beginning to what will be another banger of an MLR season.
A few takeaways from the schedule ...
1) Warm weather cities get first home advantage
The AG's host 6 of their first 8 games (and thus travel for 6 of the remaining 8 to...2021-11-1214 minRugby PickEmUSA Women Head to EuropeThe USA Women's Eagles head to Europe to play Ireland and England on the back of two defeats to Canada. Monday's crowd was lively considering it was cold enough to freeze your fingertips. Multiple hot chocolates sold out on a brisk night in Denver. The Eagles struggled in the lineout , but excellent goal kicking allowed the Eagles to keep the game close. However, they could not produce the go ahead try. Final score, 15-9.
The second game was played 5 days later, on a lovely Friday night at Infinity Park. The crowd was boisterous and both teams sought to play a...2021-11-1116 minRugby PickEmOne (Test) Window Closes, Another Opens With a VengeanceIt took a whole month for the Rugby PickEm triumvirate to return to the same studio, but the stars aligned this week and Uncle Johnny and Tommy NoPiks returned to the show.
We had left our last episode on the eve of the second leg of USA vs. Uruguay. Obviously, the results went the way of the Southern Hemisphere challenger as Uruguay cleaned up at home, winning the second leg by a score of 34-15. The final score on the aggregate (50-34) solidified Uruguay's spot in Pool A as Americas 1. Congrats to a well deserved Uruguay team that earned their...2021-11-0134 minRugby PickEmEagles vs. Los Teros & Premier Rugby 7'sThe Eagles are a home/away series vs. Uruguay away from qualifying for the Americas 1 spot in the Rugby World Cup 2023 in France. After a scintillating win at Glendale two weeks ago against Canada, the Eagles showed they can win with their backs against the wall overcoming a -15 point deficit against the men in red.
Saturday night, they'll be without AJ MacGinty their first form five-eight.
Oddly enough, the lineup involves 5 MLR forwards all from the Eastern Conference (... 3 from RUNY, 2 from NOLA) AND 5 MLR backs all from the Western Conference (3 Gilgronis, 1 Warriors, 1 Seawolves).
Isn't that ODD?
Can the Eagles...2021-10-0124 min
Rugby PickEmCarly WatersCarly Waters recently signed with Saracen's Women's in North London, and brings an exciting, tempo based skill set across the pond from her time playing in the states. She spent the last decade honing her skills here in the states, and has excelled through the ranks of Women's Rugby in the USA. Waters doesn't just do her job, she does it right and she raises the level of play around her. Both on and off the field, she continually coaches, mentors and most importantly backs her teammates.
After grinding through a tough season commuting through America's most notorious turnpike (The...2021-09-0426 min
Rugby PickEmMLR Finals Preview (ft. RATLer standout Jeremy Missile Misailegalu)The MLR Final has arrived featuring the L.A. Giltinis hosting Rugby ATL at the Coliseum Sunday night on CBS (or "big" CBS, as the commissioner likes to refer to it as.
When he's not chatting it up at the Hooch, he's volunteering in his community and spreading the game of rugby in Atlanta.
We caught up with Rugby PickEm favorite Jeremy "Missile"🚀 Misailegalu who has held down the #14 jersey all season for Rugby ATL...
🚀🚀🚀
- Players spend their entire rugby careers trying to get to a Final. Will you have butterflies before kickoff in LA on Sunday?
Yes. I often puke b...2021-07-3027 min
Rugby PickEmMLR Viral MomentsIf you blink, the MLR season will pass you by. That's what the past month has felt like. Due to the pandemic, the league kicked off a bit later than usual this year, and the season has swelled well into the summer. With the final set for Sunday August 1st on big CBS, the teams will battle the heat in the final weeks of what has been a fantastic season.
Some viral moments that happened since we last recorded...
- LaRome White goes pick 6 (well, pick 7 under the posts...the old guard still hates the automatic conversions ... but we think...2021-07-1707 minRugby PickEm100 Episodes ... and we're just warming up (ft. Devin Martling)Apparently in the podcasting world, it is a requirement to celebrate oneself for reaching 100 episodes. Well here's a nice digital pat on the back to the Rugby PickEm crew for creating the content that the rugby world wanted (but certainly didn't need) since 2018.
We have a special recording for Rugby PickEm's century mark as we go back in time 3 years to spring of 2018 when RP started. Devin Martling was a pivotal part to the early days (after all ... he is our 'producer'). We were experimenting with more long-form rugby bios, and Devin was happy to be our test case. He...2021-07-1737 minRugby PickEmOlympic 7's in TokyoHave you ever waited for something for FOUR whole years, just to have it pushed back a FIFTH additional year? The average person has trouble keeping their focus for a week or a month ... but the core 7's squad that have been living and training in Chula Vista are locked in and ready for a Global stage.
For the Olympic athletes who have waited this long to represent their countries, I applaud your patience. Both USA 7's teams will compete in Tokyo later this summer for what is hands down the highest honor in 7's rugby ... a gold medal.
So...2021-06-1708 min
Rugby PickEmThe Texas CupThe word "Bayou" derives its origins from Choctaw (bayuk) and Louisiana French. If there's one travel date that is set in stone each year for Rugby PickEm, it's our trip to the Bayou to complete the pilgrimage to one of the great US-based rugby-specific stadiums. This year had to be the Texas Cup.
As the RP "Boots on the Ground" 2021 Tour continued in the nation's 4th largest city (population), Sabercat die hard fans Franky Ruggs and Holly Hoops could barely contain their excitement as the group waited for an Uber to Aveva. Frank lives and dies with the ups and...2021-06-0922 min
Rugby PickEmMLR Crunch TimeIt's put up or shut up time as the MLR season quickly approaches the playoffs. The Giltinis lose for the 2nd time on the East coast, but don't worry ... the lads are enjoying a quick trip to Cabo for some R&R on the bye week. Rugby PickEm favorite Billy Meakes did the ol' backwards lunge and should be coming back from the trip firing on all cylinders. Big congrats ... this guy broke his orbital 6 weeks ago, but no worries mate .... back on the horse already.
Sitting first in the East, RATLer nation is fired up after their big win...2021-06-0411 min
Rugby PickEmInfinity Park Returns in StyleLA Loyals Elite defeated the Colorado XO's 33-31 last Saturday. Got to the game at halftime, but was still able to absorb an electrifying half of the Loyals Elite (hand picked by Gilly himself) vs. the Colorado XO's.
LA jumped out to a decent sized lead in the first half, but it was the spiciest scrummy of the week, Carmine Hernandez who helped lead the XO's back into contention in an electrifying second half. Tre Smalls dotted down for the XO's as they pushed hard in the final 15 minutes of the game. A Christian Rodriguez try in the corner was...2021-05-2823 min
Rugby PickEmThe Gilly ExperienceIf there's any city in the world to spend just 12 hours in, Los Angeles is right up there. The urban sprawl can be intimidating, but with limited time we went straight to the beach ... Venice Beach to be precise. It was going to be a Gilly type of weekend, so naturally we had to find ourselves a pub or two that served this Legendary Lager.
Our server Slater at the Whaler was kind enough to give us good tasting notes before we got our first pitcher, and man ... there's just something about this Legendary Lager that hits just right. Crisp...2021-05-2118 min
Rugby PickEmRed Eye to SoFi (ft. Tyler Grant)Tyler Grant was born and raised in Arkansas.
He has never been to Los Angeles, yet tomorrow night's red eye trip to LA to watch the top of the table Giltinis host the Warriors as they christen SoFi stadium's first live sporting event with fans seemed like a good idea to him when offered the chance.
When the big announcement came that the Giltinis would be playing in Stan Kroenke's new mexa-pleg, I applauded their effort to go "next level" in this 2021 season. You really only get one chance to bounce back in a big way after a 100 year pandemic...2021-05-1509 min
Rugby PickEmHartford Harpooners @ Colorado XO's (ft. Colton Strickler)Colton Strickler joins the show to discuss everything Colorado XO's. They will be hosting the Hartford Harpooners on Saturday, May 8th in what could be argued as the most hyped (non-MLR) game of the 2021 spring season.
A little background on Colton. He was the first (ever) writer for the MLR in its inaugural 2018 season (and 2019 too). Colton shaped the MLR as we know it today (online ..., via match reports). A passionate member of the rugby community, Colton first played in high school before transitioning to the reporting side of the emerging Rugby Media Industrial Complex (RMIC).
Don't forget to stream...2021-05-0721 minRugby PickEmThe Rugby Clubhouse DeliversThere's no shortage of Major League Rugby content these days. Not just on The Rugby Network (which we have sincerely and thoroughly enjoyed each week since the season started), but all over the Rugby Media Industrial Complex (RMIC). This week's media review has to be ... The Rugby Clubhouse.
The rugby world could not have been blessed with better complimenting accents for this show set in a rugby pub (via the internet ... but it still looks like a sweet set and after a while it just feels like you're having out with Fodes and Mikey).
Commish was a guest for The...2021-04-3015 minRugby PickEmOh The Punditry!!!Heading into week 6 and the season is steaming ... as a meaningless way too early prediction foretold, the current table in the West features a Gilbowl Western final.
In the East, RUNY sits in the drivers seat, as NOLA looks to hold off the other 4 eastern teams (all still at play). Toronto may get some home games on the backend, but it's wishful thinking to bank on that. They need to win a massive game in New York (well, Jersey) this week to stay in the mix.
Expert Media Pundit Pick Squares are back thanks to u/oddballgentlman and thank god...2021-04-2312 min
Rugby PickEmWitnessing History in Weymouth (BOTG)Paddy parked in the back lot (right by The Hangout which is an old airplane hangar). The whole athletic complex is just north of Historical Naval Air Station South Field which was originally established in WW2 as a Navy blimp base. It was operational from 1942 to 1997 and has housed and serviced planes such as P-3 Orions and C-130 Hercules. But the history on this day was made between the lines ... although their was certainly an aerial aspect too (we'll get to that).
Paddy was kind enough to stop at the store, so a few beverages in the parking lot were...2021-04-1419 minRugby PickEmPickEm's Last PickEm (for now)"Hey Rugby PickEm fellas. This is Casey Rock long time listener first-time caller one-time guest very interested to hear the next next podcast after week one is now in the books. I know that I spent my day feverishly switching between games on a phone when I'm watching at my in-laws seeing Snippets of all the games watching. None of them very closely, lesson learned. I will pace myself better this weekend and watch them play. But having seen week one got a few questions for you guys.
First of all, I need to know more about boots-on-the-ground. Which cities...2021-03-2623 minRugby PickEmThe Rugby Network Wins Week 1After a full year away, MLR is finally back. In preparation for Saturday's games, we busted out the TV screens, bought ingredients for (something resembling) chili in the crock pot, and invited the lads over as we dialed up "The Rugby Network" for what seemed a lot like an NFL Redzone Sunday, but better. Love how the MLR had multiple games running at a time. The staggered kick off times allowed for the non stop action to roll for 4+ hours. And could we have a better day of attack, and scoring? In the 5 games on Saturday, each team averaged just...2021-03-2220 min
Rugby PickEmToronto Arrows #ArrowsUpBest Finish: 2019 Semi-final loss to Seattle (11-5 regular season). Ended the regular season on a 7-0 run.
2021 Home Stadium: Lupo Family Field ... (for now) capacity 5,000
Best Name: Mike "Dusty" Sheppard
Who Excites Rugby PickEm: Large concentration of Canadian talent, mixed with South American flair ... what's not to like?
Socials: #ArrowsUp
Instagram: Blue Check Verified
PICKEM!2021-03-1909 min
Rugby PickEmRugby ATL #PushThePaceRugby ATL
Best Finish: N/A (cancelled inaugural season 2020)
2021 Home Stadium: Lupo Family Field (capacity 5,000)
Best Name: Duncan van Schalkwyk
Who Excites Rugby PickEm: This team has weapons, and they play fast paced rugby led by Scott Lawrence. Also, the Missile is unit.
Socials: #PushThePace
Instagram: No Blue Check2021-03-1907 min
Rugby PickEmOld Glory D.C. #OGDCOld Glory DC
Best Finish: 2020 (4-1 start) First in the east before cancelled season
2021 Home Stadium: Segra Field (capacity 5,000)
Best Name: Mo Katz
Who Excites Rugby PickEm: Keeping the "Spine" of their team. Except the halfbacks to gel right out of the gate. Coach Andrew Douglas will look to continue their winning ways.
Socials: #OGDC
Instagram: Blue Check Verified2021-03-1909 min
Rugby PickEmNOLA Gold #StayGoldNOLA Goes ALL-IN on their gameday experience
Best Finish: 2019 (9-7 regular season) Just missed the playoffs
2021 Home Stadium: The Gold Mine (capacity 5,000)
Best Name: Ross Depperschmidt
Who Excites Rugby PickEm: Multi-year contracts leads to stable growth. Expect NOLA's core group to gel early. They'll be playing for their rowdy crowd.
Socials: #StayGold
Instagram: Blue Check Verified2021-03-1807 min
Rugby PickEmNew England Freejacks #TogetherWeRideNew England Free Jacks
Best Finish: 2020 (1-4) Beat RUNY in first ever match
2021 Home Stadium: Union Point Sports Complex (capacity 2,000)
Best Name: Jack Ram
Who Excites Rugby PickEm: Mags is a sparkplug. There are few front office personalities that shine as bright as Alex Magleby. He's built up the hype in New England for a successful professional rugby team.
Socials: #TogetherWeRide #LightTheWay
Instagram: No Blue Check
PICKEM!2021-03-1708 min
Rugby PickEmRUNY #BuiltForNewYorkRugby United New York
The team is now operating under new ownership (Bolton Equities).
Best Finish: 2019, Semi-Final Loss to SD Legion (11-5 regular season)
2021 Home Stadium: MCU Park (capacity 7,500)
Best Name: Hanco Germishuys
Who Excites Rugby PickEm: Core group of players (Foden, Wallace-Sims, Fawsitt, Bennett) returning. If you can overcome NYC's challenges, you've got grit. If you're gritty, you can win games on the road. Expect RUNY to sit near the top of the table in the east.
Socials: #BuiltForNewYork
Instagram: Blue-Check Verified
PICKEM!2021-03-1608 min
Rugby PickEmHouston Sabercats #GoCatsGoHouston Sabercats
Best Finish: 2019, 6-10
2021 Home Stadium: Aveva Stadium (capacity 4,000)
Best Name: Nika Khatiashvili
Who Excites Rugby PickEm: Returning their core (Windsor, Pangelinan, Esdale, Howden), and can do some damage in the West if they pick up early W's.
Socials: #GoCatsGo
Instagram: Blue-Check Verified (Tommy NoPiks incorrectly reported on the podcast ... tsk tsk Tommy)
PICKEM!2021-03-1607 min
Rugby PickEmAustin Gilgronis #NoPadsRequiredAustin Gilgronis (photo cred: @normasali12)
Best Finish: 2020, 1-1-3 record (ended on a high note, winning the Texas Cup)
2021 Home Stadium: Bold Stadium (capacity 5,000)
Best Name: Zinzan Elan-Puttick
Who Excites Rugby PickEm: Strong, experienced coaching staff. Depth and competition at each position (fielded multiple sides during pre-season scrimmages) should allow them the ability to win games down the stretch of the season.
Socials: #WeAreAG and #NoPadsRequired
Instagram: No Blue-Check
PICKEM!2021-03-1510 min
Rugby PickEmUtah Warriors #ForTheNationUtah Warriors
Best Finish: 2018, Semi-Final loss to Glendale (3-5 regular season record)
2021 Home Stadium: Zions Bank Stadium (capacity 5,000)
Best Name: Jurie van Vuuren
Who Excites Rugby PickEm: Utah's feeder teams have gotten games under their belt in 2020. Strong core group returning including Gus McClellan, Matt Jensen, Alex Tucci (famous Twitch streamer), Lance Williams, and also adding potent weapon Mike Te'o
Socials: #ForTheNation
Instagram: No Blue Check2021-03-1407 min
Rugby PickEmL.A. Giltinis #GiltinisL.A. Giltinis
Best Finish: N/A (expansion team)
2021 Home Stadium: L.A. Coliseum (capacity 77,000)
Best Name: Langilangi Haupeakui
Who Excites Rugby PickEm: First and foremost .... Nic Boyer's Hair. But secondly it's that this is a diverse team that just trained full time for 6 weeks in Maui together. What better team bonding than a preseason vacation?
Socials: #Giltinis (step your game up social media interns...)
Instagram: No Blue Check
PICKEM!2021-03-1410 min
Rugby PickEmSan Diego Legion #WeAreLegionSan Diego Legion
Best Finish: 5-0 start in 2020 (before season was cancelled)
2021 Home Stadium: ??? (TBD In Las Vegas ... crossing our fingers for the new home of the Las Vegas Raiders, Allegiant Stadium)
Best Name: Keni Nasoqeqe
Who Excites Rugby PickEm: Joe Pieterson can kick. Good kicking = points. Also is Cole Zarcone an early favorite for Rookie of the Year?
Socials: #WeAreLegion
Instagram: Blue-Check Verified (confirmed by Tommy No Piks)
PICKEM!2021-03-1408 min
Rugby PickEmSeattle Seawolves #TogetherWeHuntSeattle Seawolves
Best Finish: 2X🏆 (Still raining champs)
2021 Home Stadium: Starfire Stadium, Tukwila WA
Best Name: Djustice Sears-Duru
Who Excites Rugby PickEm: Young talent. Aaron Matthews and Tommy Hunkin-Clark may be capped as early as round one when the Seawolves travel to Houston to take on the Sabercats.
Socials: #TogetherWeHunt
Instagram Blue Check: Check
PICKEM!2021-03-1407 min
Rugby PickEm2021 Major League Rugby - YEAR OF THE FANWe're getting back to our roots in 2021. We're putting boots on the ground this season and will try and visit at least four different team venues for live games. With the Colorado Raptors no longer a part of the MLR, the Rugby PickEm crew will look to cash in some frequent flier miles and head out of state to catch some live rugby and find the best fans in the MLR.
PICKEM!
After being cooped up for nearly a full year, 2021 has to be .....THE YEAR OF THE FAN!
We want to find the Fireman Ed of RUNY, shake the...2021-03-1307 min
Rugby PickEmState of the Rugby Union 2-11-21Welcome back to Rugby PickEm! After a month off (to let things breath), we check back into a year of rugby that's sure to be constantly changing as the MLR games proceed in a month's time.
Uncle Johnny, Tommy No Piks, Bt & Reiko in the house (casa de Collins) for a "State of the Rugby Union" ...
- MLR Teams report. Overseas players may struggle with pandemic travel restrictions, but that may create an early season opportunity for local domestic players (ideally young and uncapped at professional level).
- Dallas dispersal draft is under way. Some players have landed, others have...2021-02-1517 min
Rugby PickEmRugby PickEm 2020 - The Year That WasYou guessed it .... we made a 2020 Rugby PickEm mash up. Bt runs back the best moments in a year that was undoubtedly one of the more challenging, and gloomy years that we can remember.
We started with a season preview where Kim Jordan graced the studio and the crew ran through each MLR teams' hashtags, mascots and other ridiculous pre-season banter items. Kim's presence that night was sublime, and the crew thoroughly enjoyed what would be one of the few recording sessions before the pandemic took hold here in the US and lockdowns began.
Next we included the last couple...2021-01-041h 49
Rugby PickEmWe Made A Highlight Reel - Logan Collins - Project HeadbandOnce the 2020 season was cancelled, Tommy No Piks and Bt began the meticulous endeavor of creating a highlight reel for Rugby PickEm star Logan Collins. Spending hours pouring through old footage including:
- PRO Rugby and the Denver Stampede
- Grainy (and shaky) CSU Ram highlights (which Logan himself produced, so technically he'll begrudgingly get a Co-Producer credit on his highlight reel)
- Denver Barbarians 15s and 7s games
- Logan's days with the Serevi Selects (including the game winning tackle of Garrett Bender on the try line to win the 2017 Las Vegas Open)
Although the entire exercise was tedious...2020-12-2912 min
Rugby PickEmDreaming of the RugbyAs the night ran long on the historical Rugby PickEm Awards (better known colloquially as the RPA's), the lads sat around the mic (some didn't even realize it was on), and began reminiscing and dream about a time when the entire USA rugby landscape wasn't shut down due to a Pandemic.
Little known fact, but Uncle Johnny used to LIVE at his old club the Cincinnati Wolfhounds Rugby Clubhouse (for 5 years). If you know Uncle Johnny, this makes sense as he is one of the most enthusiastic club rugby lovers there is out there. We touched on what it feels...2020-12-2713 minRugby PickEm2020 Voicemail Extravaganza (the Callers Make The Show)Paddy From Providence - 0:35
Hey boys, Patty from Providence. Hey was scrolling through the old Instagram the other day and right between Hannah Palmer and Jenna Frumes. You know who I'm talking about. So I saw a little post about the Hartford Harpooners. Look, Providence and Harford have a have a long standing rivalry as "New England's Second City", but I'd love to see some some more local rugby. Have you seeing any other random teams popping up here and there? I hope you had a good Thanksgiving and happy holidays. Talk to you soon.
Who are the Hartford Harpooners...2020-12-2619 min
Rugby PickEm2020 Rugby PickEm Awards (The RPA's)What a year 2020 has been. Would anyone have ever thought an entire rugby season would be cancelled, postponed or altered over something that we knew could happen ... but just never thought it WOULD? Strange times.
While the majority of the North American rugby season was cancelled, the rugby media industrial complex (bloggers and podcasters with nothing better to do than strive for clicks, upvotes and the ever elusive rugby-internet fame) were hard at work.
Lockdowns across the world drove human kind indoors with nothing better to do than slowly become obsessed and addicted to the suck hole that we call...2020-12-251h 09
Rugby PickEmA Christmas Flurry (of Content)Happy Holidays Rugby PickEm Family!
This has been an astoundingly crazy year. Lives were turned upside down, and the game of rugby will forever be changed in some way shape or form. We hope more than anything that players can return to playing the game they love, and that rugby returns in the US in a safe and timely fashion.
It's been nearly 40 days since we last published something for you, but we have been busy arranging content for the entire Christmas week heading into the new year.
Over the next few days, we're releasing a flurry of content (snow...2020-12-2407 minRugby PickEmThumbs Up on World Tens Series (ft. Logan Collins)After a month of exciting games, the SX-10 raise the trophy on the final day of the Bermuda 10's, defeating the Ohio Aviators at the death. The tournament was a success, hats off to the organizers and the Bermudans for making it all happen. The rugby world awaits future tournaments like this in the future.
The Aviators played hard and showed the world their might, but came up just short on the goal line in the final minutes against SX-10. The Aviator engine room did their thing all weekend, shout outs go to Moni Tongaʻuiha, Kyle Baillie, Riekert Hattingh, & B...2020-11-0910 minRugby PickEmBermuda 10s - (ft. Barry Herbert)After speaking with Rugby PickEm friend Taylor Howden (the next Eddie Jones in the making) and he confirmed he was coaching the (throwback) Ohio Aviator side in Bermuda 10's, my mind began racing with questions about business side of things...
Who are the financial backers and what are their end game?
Is Bermuda 10's the beginning of a year-round 10's tour?
With 7's programs getting cut around the world by broke unions, will 10's take flight?
Where does 10's land on the player safety scale?
Are the massive 15's collisions slightly reduced?
Could this be the code that helps rugby...2020-10-2532 minRugby PickEmHARPO - PaLoOZa!Our favorite curmudgeon HARPO was back in Denver, and there was a sighting. Just stopping by on his long windy road to nowhere.... Who Cares, Who Knows, Why Bother?
Southern Hemisphere - Bledisloe and The Rugby Championship
After many weeks of negotiations and squabbles, Rugby Australia and the NZRU have agreed to two Bledisloe games in New Zealand, followed by a full TRC back in Australia in November (makes the quarantining a bit ... convoluted)
Been a while since the Wallabies lifted the Bledisloe Cup ... (circa 2002)
It will be a battle of the debutant head coaches. Dave Rennie replaces Michael Cheika...2020-10-1154 min
Rugby PickEmMLR Is Bacc ... Ish ... Soon ... IshThe MLR is bacc. Well, in 6 months. Commish Killebrew announced an exciting return to rugby in March of 2021. 16 games, Semis, Finals. Simple.
Jodi from San Diego
"What's up, my Rugby PickEm baes. It's Jody from San Diego. And I just heard the news that the MLR is back. I'm fired up for my Legion this year not because of the high-profile signings like ... uh ... that Chris Robshaw guy, and not because the cheeky old Eddie Jones has agreed to help us out in the front office, but the real reason I can not wait is because it's been a full...2020-09-2547 minRugby PickEmFuture Of HK 7's, Kanaloa Hawaii MLR BidThis #RugbyPickEm Voicemail show isn't too serious (or is it?) as the lads discuss the future of Hong Kong 7's given the new political situation. The Guru called into the show and inquired about how the rugby community can stand in unity with the free people of Hong Kong.
Given the nature and history of H.K. 7's, it is sad to see the island begin to get swallowed up by the Chinese Communist Party through the recent security law. Expats and Westerners flock to the city for the full week of electric 7's with the final 3 days played in...2020-09-0116 min
Rugby PickEmRugbyPickEmBio - 017 - Jordan 'Flash' GundersonThe OG Florida Man, Jordan "Flash" Gunderson stopped by the new studio (shed) to share his rugby story with the boys. He's lived the American dream, floating from state to state, playing the sport he loves and meeting lifelong friends along the way.
First off, let's just paint you a picture. Imagine every bit of 6'4, but as lean as you'd expect a long-distance runner to be. Flash made his money in the flankers (poach fiend ... couldn't keep him out of rucks), while also possessing the athletic ability (silky pass) to fill in among the back 3. He'd also occasionally suit...2020-08-201h 00Rugby PickEmWho's Looking Out For The Players?As the league has grown (at what seems to be lighting speed) over the first 2.25 seasons of Major League Rugby, there's no doubt that the professional atmosphere has raised the level of play in the US. But with a professional atmosphere, comes the competitive grind that can often leave young players at a loss if they don't have the right people in their camp.
Our caller Kate from Cheshire, CT asked a simple question:
"Who's Looking Out For The Players?"
We dove in RP style and got in contact with two new groups doing this kind of work (well new...2020-08-0826 minRugby PickEmA Lustful Rugby MarriageHappy Long Weekend. We can't believe it's been almost 4 months since rugby has been played in the US. And yet, strangely ... there's been more news than we could have ever imagined. Between player signings, two new MLR franchises (minus one withdrawing), and the inaugural MLR draft, it's actually been worth staying plugged in on what is going on here domestically .... even if there are no active games.
Bt and Tommy NoPiks hit the phone lines to hear from the people. It just so happens that our first caller wants to know about the new rugby marriage (right here in the...2020-07-0315 min
Rugby PickEmSuper Rugby AotearoaThe 2020 rugby calendar has been chaotic, but lucky for us Super Rugby in New Zealand is back in business. We had Mickey Bateman in studio to talk everything kiwi rugby.
Mickey played his high school rugby at King’s College in south Auckland (a short drive from epic rival St. Kentigern College (St. Kent’s) He was lucky to share the field with some NZ rugby legends who are now thriving at the top level.
Shoutout to Mickey’s Meals who had been supplying the Colorado Raptors with meals each day. Due to the unfortunate pandemic and the cancelled MLR season...2020-06-2154 min
Rugby PickEmCole Zarcone, Inaugural MLR DraftWe talked with Cole Zarcone about his phenomenal career at Central Washington University (CWU).
His personal high at CWU, was whooping BYU 51-7 (or something around those lines) just before the season was cut short due to the pandemic. They were 0-5 against BYU going into this years game and let's just say ... they were due.
Central Washington University Rugby (based in Ellensburg, WA ... aka the Windy City) is an independent program, who decides their own schedule. They have carved their own path by scheduling what most would deem an extremely tough spring schedule with fixtures against some of the...2020-06-1129 min
Rugby PickEmThe Giltinis Debate1:30 - Paddy from Providence
"Hope ya well, first time long time here, ... Gotta ask, isn't the Austin Gabronis and the Los Angeles Crantinis owned by the same guy a bit of a conflict of interest? That's it. Feel free to discus..."
Okay, so everyone has heard that Adam Gilchrist has purchased his second Major League Rugby team. Similar to the Austin based "Gilgronis" (a Texas sized cocktail to be named in the future...), the Los Angeles franchise has been dubbed as the "Giltinis" (a California martini with the perfect amount of smugness).
But what does this mean for the future...2020-06-0920 min
Rugby PickEmRugbyPickEmBio - 016 - Lin HillLin Hill (player, coach, admin, part time team trainer) played her first game in at 13, following the 12 around the pitch and doing her best to manage on the fly. After dabbling in some summer 7's (working at sweeper), she eventually transitioned to the play-making roles of the 15's game, the halfback options.
From her experience as a coxswain, she fit right in at scrumhalf. The 9 jersey will always have her heart, and the work she put into her scrummy pass will always stick with her. But the fly-half has so many creative options (the pin and pass) and marching the...2020-05-1934 min
Rugby PickEmRugbyPickEmBio - 015 - Adam DruryLadies and Gentleman, we have ourselves a time capsule pod. Rugby PickEm sat down with Adam Drury the night before he moved from Fort Collins, CO to Blacksburg, VA to pursue a career as a veterinarian. It was a beautiful summer night in June 2018, and the birds were a chirpin'. Adam talked about his amazing rugby career and the experiences that came with it. It can be summed up in one of his final lines ...
"I can't thank everybody enough who have been part of my "rugby life. I hope that anyone out there who is considering rugby will give...2020-05-0532 min
Rugby PickEmRugbyPickEmBio - 014 - Kim JordanKim Jordan (aka KayJay, Jimberly Korden) walks the Rugby PickEm guys through her illustrious career player Rugby in the Colorado area. She started by joining the new HS team S.W.A.R.M. Eventually her path led her to winning big games at Colorado State University.
She shouts out the legends she played alongside and against (Tina Nesberg, Sarah Rossi, Tash Dale, and other "good humans" (Kim's (often repeated) words).
Her club career saw her play with the Steamboat Charging Heffers, Jackson Hole Lady Moose, and eventually coaching and playing for the Men's club Marauders R.F.C.
Kim...2020-03-2449 minRugby PickEmFirst Team ALL - HAIR, Voicemails, & Top 5 Rugby Movies For QuarantineRugby PickEm fans, let’s just start by saying we couldn’t be more bummed out about the cancelled 2020 season, but it’s times like these that put things in perspective. It’s life and death situations (the entire human species battling a global pandemic) like these that force us to cherish the things close to us like family, and community. We were hoping to bring some laughs in a time of uncertainty (and no rugby), and since we recorded this, the situation has worsened. We hope all the listeners stay safe and we’ll do our best to keep putting up...2020-03-2125 minRugby PickEmVoiceMails, And Week 5 MLR PickEmBt and Tommy No Piks (Tommy 1%er) go over everything MLR including Voicemails from:
-Stewart McClanahanahan
-The Guru (2x)
-Ben from Spain
-Stephania de Mexico
-Bill Webb Ellis (bonus content)
They also dive into:
he match up between (rival?) sideline reporters Stacy Paetz and Maria_martin.
Matthiew Bastereau's NYC Culture life
and of course ..... they PICKEM!2020-03-0731 minRugby PickEmVoiceMails & Week 3 MLR PickEmThis episode, we decided we to open our lines to the callers and they didn't disappoint.
You, a friend, a foe, or any rugby fan who feels so inclined can call our Rugby PickEm Voicemail Line and leave a question, comment, or start a trash talking war.
Hope to hear more next week! Call 720-259-8825
Here's BT's week 3 lines:
Colorado Raptors (+5.5) vs NOLA Gold (-5.5)
Utah Warriors (-4.5) vs. Austin Gilgronis (+4.5)
Houston SaberCats (-6.5) vs. OGDC (+6.5)
Seattle Seawolves (+3) vs. Toronto Arrows (-3)
Rugby ATL (-6.5) vs. RUNY (+6.5)
San Diego Legion (-12.5) vs. NEFJ (+12.5)
The two "home dogs" have plenty...2020-02-2124 min
Rugby PickEmRugby PickEm 2019 - The Year That WasWe clipped some of the best Rugby PickEm moments from 2019 for you to enjoy over your holiday break. If you enjoy, pass it on to a rugby friend!2019-12-2429 min
Rugby PickEmSemis Recap + RWC Final Preview & PickEmBt and Barry look back on England's unbelievable semi final upset over the mighty All Blacks. Stayed up til 5am for South Africa to finally edge out Wales in the battle of field position and box kicks. The results give us a rematch of the 2007 RWC where South Africa won their second title, 12 years after winning a cup for the first time when they hosted the tournament in 1995.
81 kicks in the SA vs. Wales semifinal ... Has the tactical kicking gone off the rails, or is this how good teams win big games?
RWC 2019 FINAL
England (-4) vs South Africa (+4)
The...2019-10-3122 min
Rugby PickEmHARPO & Barry Herbert In Studio - RWC 2019On this week’s Rugby PickEm, a couple of fan favorites HARPO and Barry Herbert returned to the studio like prodigal sons (Cheers to LoSpo for the LoSpo hospitality). The lads opened up with congratulating the USA Women’s 7’s Eagles as they took gold in the first leg of the HSBC 7’s in Glendale Colorado. HARPO gave his “Spark Plug”, “Bashem Bruiser” and “Half Spark Plug, Half Bashem Bruiser” awards to the Lady Eagles that rose to the occasion. Congrats on a great start, and we can’t wait to hold onto the top position all season.
RWC 2019! Year of the Red Card, the c...2019-10-1144 min
Rugby PickEmRugbyPickEmBio - 012 - Ben PinkelmanLadies and Gentleman, we got him. Ben Pinkelman, a dear friend of Logan Collins and I came by Logan’s house (studio) in between his intense training sessions with Gary Gold’s world cup squad. Although he’ll be resting this weekend against Canada, we expect him to see action and potentially his first cap in the following week’s of the PNC.
Pinky started by telling us the only reason he came out to play rugby was because he was annoying his mom as a high schooler and she wanted him out of the house. He took up rugby with his...2019-07-2655 min
Rugby PickEmA Podcast So Nice, We Recorded It Twice ... MLR Playoff Preview SpecialOur first recording debacle took place Monday night as the PickEm gang sat and discussed the great weekend in rugby. This were going smoothly, and time whisked away as opinions and analysis were tossed around the room all willy-nilly. After intense deliberations (and of course some libations), it became aware to the host / audio engineer / chief editor of Rugby PickEm that our world famous red microphone (the one which hogs half of our logo) was not plugged into the tablet. Tempers were lost, alliances were stressed, but the gang found it in their hearts to get back on the saddle...2019-06-0556 min
Rugby PickEmThe MLR is Deadlocked and We're Holding Our Breath in the Final WeekThis week on Rugby PickEm, the lads finally get back in the studio (after Uncle Johnny was finally reigned in from going out every night). We dove into the amazing run the USA 7’s Eagles have been having in 2019 (Pinkleman and Ke'Von .... 2019-05-3156 min
Rugby PickEmMLR Mid-season Banter - Uncle Johnny ReturnsUncle Johnny returns for his first show in 2019 .... (we missed him dearly) and he joins Bt and our very special guest Barry Herbert aka the Mile High Saffa.
We catch you up the high flying USA 7's Eagles (first-ranked team in the world / solar system / galaxy), USA rugby's new sponsor: Ernst & Young, and lastly a deep dive in the mid season report on our favorite local league ... Major League Rugby.
We ask about the health of the league in year 2, and try to answer HARPO's biggest pet peeve ... Where are the ASSES in SEATS?
In "Table Talk" we look at...2019-04-1247 min
Rugby PickEmRugby PickEm Bio - 009 - Max StatlerMax Statler closes out "Raptor Week" with stories and tales from his decade long career with Glendale. He went from playing soccer at Mesa State, to walking onto the football team and out-kicking the starting kicker (with a sports hernia?), to finding his place with Glendale Rugby after Ted "the spread" Browner told him to show up to training one day. He's played under 3 different Glendale coaches over his impressive career, and almost kicked the can after a 7's tournament ... (don't worry, he survived).
Max recently came back from the Classic Eagles tour in Bermuda, helping the squad hoist their...2018-12-2632 min
Rugby PickEmRugby PickEm Bio - 008 - Casey RockWe're ending 2018 with "Raptor Week" and we couldn't have thought of a better person to lead off than the living giant Casey Rock, all 6'9' of him.
With Logan Collins as a guest host, we talked about high school rugby in Colorado, transitioning from soccer to rugby, his playing time abroad in Australia and New Zealand, and lastly his career through the genesis of Glendale Rugby to the professional side they are today. Casey has seen a bunch of rugby over the last 12 years, and is a true ambassador of the game.
Enjoy!
Top 3 Glendale Locks:
Alec Parker
Matt...2018-12-221h 10
Rugby PickEm2018 November Test Window ... The Eagles Keep RollingIn this week’s Rugby PickEm, Bt and Uncle Johnny dig into the thrilling November international test matches. The Eagles keep rolling through their tour, only to come face to face with the king of Europe this weekend, the high and mighty Irish. Ireland coming off a historic win, dethroning of the All Blacks in Aviva.
We recap the month that’s been and tease the final week’s betting lines. Is there TOO much TMO or should we try and get EVERY call right EVERY time? The guys talk officiating, the internet and rugby (we have a small gripe with F...2018-11-2022 min
Rugby PickEmRugby World Cup 7's - The San Francisco ChroniclesThe Rugby PickEm gang had a blast in San Francisco. Even though our Eagles didn't win it all, we soaked up 3 days of awesome 7's rugby. Bt, Uncle Johnny, and FloridaMan Dev take us through a roller coaster of a weekend where we talked to Ben Pinkleman (for a couple seconds), Pink's Peeps, tourists at Fisherman's Wharf, two lovely Kiwis (who received an unexpected delivery), and the Pope himself ... Sir Duncan Townsend.
WPL all-star game recap, a bit of Super Rugby, and a preview of club 7's nationals. An action packed episode that took a while to put together, but...2018-08-1046 min
Rugby PickEmMLR Playoff PredictionsWith Uncle Johnny and HARPO back in town, the Rugby PickEm guys got together before summer break to talk rugby. The eagles sweep their June test matches ... we reflect back on the historic summer and look t ahead to the November test match in Ireland. Summer 7's have begun, but before we look too far ahead, .... the MLR playoffs are upon us! Predictions, analysis, hot takes, and our world famous point spreads .... Happy 4th ya filthy animals.
Glendale -22 vs. Utah +22
O/U – 65
San Diego Legion / Seattle Seawolves --> PickEm game2018-06-3021 min
Rugby PickEmRugbyPickEmBio - 003 - Logan CollinsSitting down with Logan Collins after his first MLR cap was a treat. We started talking summer 7's, and proceeded to bounce off the walls covering everything from when he started playing rugby his senior year of high school with James Patterson in Colorado Springs, to learning from kiwis in Dunedin, to winning the one and only PRO Rugby Championship with the Denver Stampede, and his Super League days with the Denver Barbarians. Lots of culture in this week's bio with a guy who plays drums, professional rugby, and holds down a full-time job on the side. Enjoy this week's...2018-06-2245 min
Rugby PickEmRugby OVERLOAD ... Banter, Celebrations, Recaps, Picks and .... Breaking News?The PickEm guys can barely handle all the rugby over the weekend but we do it for our fans .... Uncle Johnny gives his "State Of The Rugby Union", recapping Wales vs. SA in the Nation's Capital, London 7s, and Club National Championships.
We talk MLR, featuring our usual weekly awards. Vili Toluta'u wins #FirstTeamAllHair and Marcus Walsh is our #spiciestscrummy. In our first ever Breaking News on #RugbyPickEm .... Logan Collins will make his MLR debut this week with Glendale.
We change it up and pick against the point spreads for the June International Test Matches. All that and more on...2018-06-0624 min
Rugby PickEmWeek 3 wrap: MLR .... the league of PARITY!Week 3 in the MLR was the week of upsets that had our heads spinning. Catch up with HARPO's hot takes, game recaps, voicemail (from a very powerful, concerned friend), Thanking Doug, player try pool and week 4 picks. Top notch MLR banter on this week's RUGBY PICKEM!
Call 720-259-8825 and YOU could be featured on Rugby PickEm!2018-05-1034 min
Rugby PickEmWeek 2 Wrap .... There's a new play by play sheriff in town.We learned A LOT in week 2, and like all you fans ... were frothing for more. In Seattle, HARPO sees a familiar face and we have our first plus sized athlete of the week. Down in Houston, Grant Cole snatches the announcing crown, and Bt has a case of #rigjealously. In San Diego, Nate Augsburger is our spiciest scrummy of the week, and we deliver our first official MLR first-team all-hair as we break down some Utah Warriors's hair-dos. Voicemail, Thanking Doug, Player Try Pool, and Week 3 PickEm .... (including HARPO's sure thing Derby winner) ... there's a little bit of everything this...2018-05-0235 min