Best Stat Lines Matter Podcasts (2025)

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Red Time: Biggest All-Australian snubs; is free agency broken? 35:00

Play Pause

2d ago35:00

35:00

It’s a bye week, but there’s still plenty to unpack on Red Time. JB and Coxy dive into Harley Reid’s huge decision to stay loyal to West Coast, what Oscar Allen’s looming move says about free agency, and the biggest All-Australian snubs. Plus, they debate which non-finalists will rise or fall in 2026, and the merits and importance of the pre-finals…

1
AFL: Grading every bottom 10 team's season; the 'phantom behind' explained! 1:10:06

5d ago1:10:06

1:10:06

This week, the team breaks down the Western Bulldogs' capitulation to Fremantle, and grades every team that missed finals - who gets an F, and who gets a B? Plus, Izak Rankine, the 'phantom behind' explained, and can the Dons actually win?! Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more abou…

1
Red Time: Collingwood’s inside view on the Rankine fallout 31:42

9d ago31:42

31:42

This week, the guys dive into the fallout from Izak Rankine’s alleged on-field slur, with Coxy giving a rare player’s perspective on how news like this actually filters through a club, how the Magpies handled it internally, and what impact it has on a playing group. Plus, they debate whether Harry Sheezel’s 54-disposal game is more impressive than …

1
AFL: Is Freo's season a fail if they miss finals? Plus, Harry Sheezel's day out 1:01:29

11d ago1:01:29

1:01:29

This week, we consider whether or not Fremantle has lived up to expectations in 2025, and look at Hawthorn and GWS's recent form. Plus, Harry Sheezel's 54-disposal game, Shannon Neale love, the best dual-position players, Izak Rankine latest, and more! Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Lea…

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Red Time: Mind-blowing Nat Fyfe stat; What St Kilda can learn from Nick Saban! 34:39

16d ago34:39

34:39

On this week’s episode, JB and Coxy marvel at Nat Fyfe’s incredible career and the mind-blowing stat from his unstoppable peak. Coxy takes us inside Collingwood amid their current form slump and what’s being done to turn it around, while they also discuss the Saints’ big contract decisions, delve into a huge edition of Start-Bench-Drop, look ahead …

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AFL: 'Perfectly placed' - the 9 contenders ranked in order of trust 1:08:58

18d ago1:08:58

1:08:58

This week, we rank each team in the finals race by the level of 'trust' we have in them to win the flag. Plus a look at Essendon's injury crisis, 'the runway', a Ben King update, and Nat Fyfe's legacy. Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices…

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Red Time: Coxy defends Jack Ginnivan; Goodwin sacked 34:50

22d ago34:50

34:50

On this week’s episode, JB and Coxy dive into the bombshell sacking of Simon Goodwin and what it means for Melbourne’s immediate future. They also weigh in on the awkward airport moment involving Jack Ginnivan and anews reporter, and how “uncomfortable” doorstops can affect player-mediarelationships. Plus, they talk all things Steele Sidebottom’s 3…

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AFL: Breaking down who's going to finish top four (and eight!) 59:35

24d ago59:35

59:35

This week, we look at the machinations of the final few weeks of footy, and break down who is most likely to finish top four and top eight (hint, the Pies might be in strife!). Plus, the Cats' soft draw, Tex Walker's kicking, and some AFLW! Join Matt Walsh, Jarryd Barca, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about…

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Red Time: Our favourite after-the-siren goals, Toby vs. Papley, and disrespectful bench foods 37:21

1M ago37:21

37:21

On this week’s episode, JB and Coxy laugh about Toby Greene and Tom Papley’s cheeky exchange and discuss whether the AFL is becoming too precious when it comes to on-field language. They also dig into Collingwood’s increased training loads ahead of a tough three-week stretch, and rank their favourite after-the-siren goals after Nasiah Wanganeen-Mil…

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AFL: The Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera episode; who's on 'the runway'?! 54:04

1M ago54:04

54:04

This week, we analyse the crazy finish to the St Kilda vs. Melbourne match and consider Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera's future. Plus, a look at which flag contenders are nailing Champion Data's 'runway', and we break down a few hard-to-believe stats from this week's spankings. Join Matt Walsh, Jarryd Barca, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN …

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Red Time: Footy traditions under threat; Should AFL player salaries be public? 36:19

1M ago36:19

36:19

On this week’s episode, JB and Coxy dive into the AFL’s big player movement and contract debates, such as player salaries being public, and is the game ready for stars to announce their offseason moves in the middle of the season? They also weigh in on Greg Swann’s mission to shorten games and whether it’s time to rethink the father-son rule, the c…

1
AFL: Eagles CANNOT get a priority pick; do we trust the Pies (and Dockers!)? 56:47

1M ago56:47

56:47

This week, the team debates whether the Eagles -- now three and a half games behind 17th -- deserve a priority pick. Plus, can we trust the Pies to finish top two, and can we trust the Dockers to keep winning?! Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podca…

1
Red Time: Inside Collingwood’s halftime chat; The No. 11 guernsey mystery 34:08

1M ago34:08

34:08

On this week’s episode, JB and Coxy go inside Collingwood’s half time chat against Gold Coast and what’s actually said when you’re goalless at the break. They also discuss where the AFL’s 20th license should go, Tristan Xerri’s three-match ban, and inconsistencies in footy punishments. Plus, they investigate the AFL’s weirdest visual mystery -- why…

1
AFL: The teams nailing the 'premiership standards'; the AFL's scheduling nightmare 57:36

2M ago57:36

57:36

This week, we look at which teams have the best premiership profile heading into the home stretch of the season. Plus, why Richmond vs. Essendon wasn't that bad, the scheduling nightmare which faces the AFL, Harley vs. JHF, plus a heap more! Join Matt Walsh, Jarryd Barca, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more abou…

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Red Time: Weighing up the pros and cons of the AFL’s ‘NBA Cup’ idea 31:57

2M ago31:57

31:57

On this week’s episode, JB and Coxy break down the AFL’s potential in-season tournament concept -- dubbed the league’s version of the 'NBA Cup' -- and weigh up whether fans, players and clubs would actually takeit seriously. They also discuss the growing frustration with umpiresstopping games unnecessarily for minor knocks or boot mishaps, and dive…

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AFL: Why Freo could bottle finals; players who receive the most pressure 51:56

2M ago51:56

51:56

This week, we look at players with the highest and lowest kick:handball ratios, the players who are under the most pressure when disposing of the ball, and the tackle kings of the competition. Plus, the race for the eight (and why Freo is in trouble), and the latest member of the 1000 metres gained club! Join Matt Walsh, Jarryd Barca, and Champion …

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Red Time: Mason Cox reacts to new AFL crackdown; boot studs and turf chat 33:21

2M ago33:21

33:21

On this week’s episode, JB and Coxy react to the AFL’s breaking crackdown on umpire contact, with suspensions now on the table for repeat offenders. Plus, with turf talk dominating the headlines, we get into the nitty gritty of boot studs, surface conditions, and whether the SCG is really that bad compared to some other grounds. Also on the agenda …

1
AFL: 2025 is HOW lopsided? The 'changing of guard' in front of our eyes 46:11

2M ago46:11

46:11

This week, we discuss the chasm in quality from the top nine to the bottom nine on the ladder, plus we touch on the Tom Lynch situation, the young stars usurping the 'old guard', and took a look at Melbourne's big conundrum. Join Matt Walsh, Rohan Connolly, and Champion Data's Christian Joly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.c…

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Red Time: Inside Graham Wright's influence; Dimma joins the bird club 32:34

2M ago32:34

32:34

JB and Coxy break down the week’s biggest talking points, including what goes on behind the scenes when clubs know one of their stars is set to cop heavy attention, and the emergence of the next great crop of key forwards (and how long it’ll take them to truly peak). Coxy also sheds light on Graham Wright’s behind-the-scenes impact during a turning…

1
AFL: Did Windhager cross the line with Daicos? Time to sack Voss? 55:39

2M ago55:39

55:39

This week, the team debates whether Marcus Windhager crossed the line with his tag of Nick Daicos. Plus, a look at Carlton's identity under Michael Voss, what the Dockers are doing well, and Joel Amartey's record-breaking outing (for all the wrong reasons). Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast…

1
Red Time: Will Geelong’s ‘Kit out the Cattery’ idea pay off? 34:11

2M ago34:11

34:11

In this week’s episode, JB and Coxy dive into Geelong’s bold move to ‘white out’ GMHBA Stadium and ask whether it will spark a new trend or fall flat. Plus, they also explore how mid-season draftees are able to make an instant impact at clubs, whether conditions genuinely impact how players feel about playing somewhere, and they throw out a cheeky …

1
AFL: The teams hit hardest by injury (it's not who you think!) 51:34

2M ago51:34

51:34

This week we look at the Lions, and if it's time to worry about their premiership defence. We also delve into the teams hit hardest by injury by using a little-known Champion Data stat, and wonder if Thursday night footy is overdone. Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your …

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Red Time: Coxy's take on Ginni's taunt; why night Grand finals are inevitable 34:23

3M ago34:23

34:23

JB and Coxy react to the fallout from Jack Ginnivan’s cheeky pre-goal celebration, debating whether it was unnecessary taunting or just a bit of harmless fun, and reflect on the heated exchange between Max Gawn and Steven May. They also deliver Part I of their short mid-season reviews, and dive into the importance of goalkicking accuracy. Plus, the…

1
AFL: The stats behind a bizarre round; Gawn-May and Tom Stewart unpacked 1:00:38

3M ago1:00:38

1:00:38

This week, we discuss the Steven May-Max Gawn blow-up, debate Tom Stewart's bump on Noah Anderson, and look at the stats behind a truly bizarre round of footy. Plus, should every team tag Nick Daicos? Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.…

1
Red Time: Coxy's 'psyche out' technique; stop apologising for nothing! 35:59

3M ago35:59

35:59

In this week’s episode, JB and Coxy unpack the fallout from Wayne Milera’s ‘rabble’ comments and question why clubs still feel the need to apologise for player honesty. They also debate who the current face of the league is, and ask what Greg Swann’s first task should be in his new role at the AFL. Plus, they rank their favourite Big Freeze costume…

1
AFL: The Swans' biggest issues revealed; 'rabbles' in footy 59:07

3M ago59:07

59:07

This week, we discuss Sydney's drop off and Adelaide's rise into premiership contention, and deliver an update on 'the 45 kick' and control vs. chaos games. Plus, the biggest 'rabbles' in footy, and who is the 'face of the league'? Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad…

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Red Time: Mid-season trade period debate; AFL in the Olympics?! 30:59

3M ago30:59

30:59

On this week’s episode, Mason Cox and Jarryd Barca debate whetherit’s time for a mid-season trade period in the AFL, and with the NFL voting toallow its players to compete in Olympic flag football, they dream up which footy players could take them on if Australia formed a team. Plus, Mason passionately questions whether the billion-dollar Tassie st…

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AFL: Jake issues TWO apologies! Plus the 'unbelievable' Ben King stat 47:57

3M ago47:57

47:57

This week, we look at the Demons' turnaround from their disastrous 0-5 start, how the Pies just keep fronting up, and why the Blues just can't score. Plus, Jake issues some apologies, and the Ben King stat that would have Fraser Gehrig blushing. Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more…

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Red Time: Should AFL, Tassie have an NHL-style expansion draft? 33:58

3M ago33:58

33:58

On this week’s episode, Mason Cox and Jarryd Barca ponder what concessions should be handed to Tasmania for their entry into the league, debate which positions on the field are the most valuable in the modern game, ask if the punishment always fits the crime when it comes to 50-metre penalties, and look ahead to a huge weekend of footy. Learn more …

1
AFL: Blowtorch on Bombers ... again; who is the league's best coach? 58:08

3M ago58:08

58:08

This week, the team looks at Essendon's horrific effort and their broader struggles, and debate who the best coach in the AFL is. Plus, metres gained records, losing streaks, and 'effective spoils'. Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.co…

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Red Time: Coxy’s take on the umpire audio saga; AFL draft lottery, anyone? 33:51

4M ago33:51

33:51

On this week’s episode, Mason Cox, who was on the field when Lachie Schultz was concussed, gives his take on the umpire audio revelations that have the AFL under pressure. We also ponder whether the AFL should have a draft lottery after the wild results in the NBA, and ask if goal umpires should be allowed to pay free kicks. Plus, we rank our favou…

1
AFL: The game's most effective pressure player? It’s not who you think… 56:14

4M ago56:14

56:14

This week, the team unpacks a wild weekend of footy and looks at how close Nick Blakey came to breaking a unique record. Plus, Christian breaks down exactly what makes up a team's pressure rating and which players apply it the most. And what was the 'expected score' from Aaron Francis' miss from point-blank range? Join Jarryd Barca, Rohan Connolly,…

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Red Time: AFL’s ‘baffling’ score reviews slammed; We need more trash talk 29:53

4M ago29:53

29:53

On this week’s episode, Mason Cox explains to Jarryd Barca the complexities of preparing for a game off a five-day break, while the boys discuss the ‘baffling’ score review system and are hellbent on ball-tracking technology being implemented in the game sooner rather than later. Plus, how Ross Lyon’s brutal subbing of Hugo Garcia worked, and will …

1
AFL: Our 'fraud of the week'; unbreakable records; are the Dogs flag fancies? 56:41

4M ago56:41

56:41

This week, the team exposes Fremantle's 'Jekyll and Hyde' form after a preseason filled with expectation. Plus, the Bulldogs are hitting premiership metrics, some exclusive '45 kick' numbers, and is Jack Crisp's record unbreakable? Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast Learn more about your ad …

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Red Time: Collingwood's ageless wonders & the AFL draft we'll never have... 30:38

4M ago30:38

30:38

On this week’s episode, Mason Cox and Jarryd Barca unpack the fallout from Paul Curtis’ three-match suspension, and ask whether the AFL should steal a page out of the NFL’s playbook and ‘glam up’ the draft. Plus, Mason takes us inside the habits and secrets that keep Steele Sidebottom and Scott Pendlebury defying age, and we have some bold takes in…

1
AFL: 2025's most improved players; 'zero disposal' club; Blues are back?! 50:44

4M ago50:44

50:44

This week, the team looks at the players who have improved the most in 2025, and those who have slid down the 100X rankings. Plus, more bellwether stats, the 'zero disposal' club, and are the Blues actually back? Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit pod…

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Red Time: Why Anzac guernseys matter; AFL finals shake up? 30:25

4M ago30:25

30:25

On this week’s episode, Mason Cox and Jarryd Barca dive into the public debate around Anzac guernseys -- are they a respectful gesture or becoming ‘too’ commercial? They also share their favourite designs revealed by clubs this year. Plus, they ask the question: should the AFL introduce its own 'play-in' system similar to those used in other sports…

1
AFL: Footy's 'bellwether' stats, Bontempelli's unreal return 51:07

4M ago51:07

51:07

This week, and with the election coming up, Christian looks at 'bellwether' stats, and the players feature the most. Plus, success stories of moving from midfield to half back, the fastest goals on record, and heaps more! Join Matt Walsh, Jarryd Barca, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. V…

1
Red Time: AFL venue rankings; Fixing Melbourne 38:21

5M ago38:21

38:21

On this week's episode, Mason Cox and Jarryd Barca reveal their totally unqualified AFL venue rankings (sorry, ENGIE Stadium), unpack the Dees' struggles and how it could mirror Collingwood's 2021 season, and ask the question: are Gold Coast legit? Plus, they imagine the chaos of a Suns-Giants Grand Final, and each pick the team with the most to pr…

1
AFL: Best kicks in the league revealed; Hawks need to 'just shut up'?! 57:10

5M ago57:10

57:10

This week, we delve into the AFL's best kicks by looking into retention rates, look at where the Crows need to improve, and what's gone wrong for the Demons. Plus, do the Hawks need to shut up and play footy? Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcast…

1
Red Time: Mason Cox joins the show! 31:39

5M ago31:39

31:39

Red Time is back for season 2025! On this week’s episode, Mason Cox and Jarryd Barca unpack the rise of Sam Darcy and how defenders can stop him, and debate which rules in the AFL need tweaking. Plus, we chat Bronx cheers, jumper clashes, and which side released the best Gather Round guernsey? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.…

1
AFL: 'The players can't win!' Plus, teams nailing 'premiership metrics' 56:07

5M ago56:07

56:07

This week on the podcast, Christian delves deeper into the premiership metrics now that most teams have a month of footy under their belt, while he also reveals more about the '45 kick' and speed of ball movement. Plus, coaches in the hot seat, and player gamesmanship. Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN F…

1
AFL: 'If he's your third best midfielder, you have the best midfield in the league' 45:30

5M ago45:30

45:30

This week, the team discusses Rhyan Mansell's ban, analyses Gold Coast's hot start and if it's sustainable, and looks at the Saints' turnaround offensively. Plus, wind-affected games, the 'second half Blues', and more. Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Vis…

1
AFL: 'Disgraceful' Dons lacking defensively; clubs who use 'the 45 kick' 49:53

5M ago49:53

49:53

This week, the team analyses the underwhelming starts of Fremantle and Essendon, looks at some xScores stats and which teams use 'the 45 kick' the most, plus some other interesting nuggets on a number of teams. Join Matt Walsh, Rohan Connolly, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podc…

1
AFL: 'There's no deficiency'; Jackson Archer deserves his ban 46:24

6M ago46:24

46:24

This week, the team looks at the strong performances of a number of debutants, unpacks Carlton's shock loss to Richmond, identifies the Hawks' changing game style, plus heaps more including the latest tribunal drama. Join Matt Walsh, Jarryd Barca, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit …

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AFL: 'The back six is what will carry them to a premiership'; concerns over Pies mids? 42:42

6M ago42:42

42:42

This week, the team analyses the two Opening Round matches, and look at where each team stands after the weekend. Plus, is Nick Daicos as fit as he could be, and what mistakes did Dean Cox make in his coaching debut? And the return of 'who is it a bit week for?'" Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Joly on the ESPN Footy P…

1
AFL: 'It's a big year for...'; what's new at Champion Data 1:04:47

6M ago1:04:47

1:04:47

The ESPN Footy Podcast BACK! This week, the team talks through new stats Champion Data will track this year, Jake reveals his top 10 players in the league, we give our season predictions, and we ask 'who is it a big year for?' Plus, 'Is the hype justified or is it hyperbole?' returns. Join Matt Walsh, Jake Michaels, and Champion Data's Christian Jo…

1
AFL: ESPN's 25 best players of the last 25 years (Part 2) 1:32:26

9M ago1:32:26

1:32:26

ESPN's Jake Michaels and Rohan Connolly, along with Champion Data's Christian Joly count down the 25 best players to have pulled on the boots in the last 25 years. With so many superstars having graced the footy field over the past quarter of a century, it's no mean feat! This is Part 2 of a two-part series. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit …

1
AFL: ESPN's 25 best players of the last 25 years (Part 1) 1:24:37

9M ago1:24:37

1:24:37

ESPN's Jake Michaels and Rohan Connolly, along with Champion Data's Christian Joly count down the 25 best players to have pulled on the boots in the last 25 years. With so many superstars having graced the footy field over the past quarter of a century, it's no mean feat! This is Part 1 of a two-part series. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit …

1
AFLW: It's Prelim Week! Plus a new start date 21:03

9M ago21:03

21:03

This week Isadora McLeay and Eleanor Brown talk about a big week ahead, including the W Awards, preliminary final weekend and how the weather will play a apart. As usual last week's games will be dissected, plus a new start date to the season, what difference will this make? Tune in to find out all the AFLW latest! Learn more about your ad choices.…