Men In Blazers

Roger Bennett and Michael Davies have been making soccer accessible and genuinely entertaining for American audiences since 2014, and with over 1,800 episodes, Men In Blazers has basically earned its own category in sports podcasting. The show treats the English Premier League like what it honestly is -- a sprawling, dramatic soap opera that happens to involve athletic competition. The weekly schedule is ambitious. Mondays bring the flagship pod where Rog and Davo recap the weekend's Premier League action. Tuesdays shift to European Nights, where Rog teams up with New York Times writer Rory Smith to cover Champions League and continental football. Wednesdays feature tactical breakdowns, Thursdays are wildcard specials, and Fridays preview the upcoming weekend. That's five episodes a week, and they somehow keep each one feeling distinct. What makes the show work is the hosts' genuine affection for the sport mixed with a very British sense of humor. Roger, an Everton supporter who has lived through more heartbreak than most fans could handle, brings emotional investment that borders on theatrical. Michael balances him with sharper observations and a producer's instinct for storytelling. Episodes range from about 30 minutes to over an hour depending on the format. They've built a passionate community -- 4.8 stars from over 5,000 ratings -- and their live shows regularly sell out. The pod also features recurring segments with U.S. national team players and special coverage during World Cup cycles. If you follow soccer or have been meaning to start, this is probably the most entertaining entry point available. The football knowledge is real, but it never feels like homework.