Episodes

  • High Expectations For Bills Safety Cole Bishop?
    May 16 2025

    On this episode of Talking Buffalo, it's another edition of The Podbag as Patrick Moran is responding to comments, takes and questions submitted by listeners covering several topics, including an incredibly high ceiling projection for Buffalo Bills safety Cole Bishop going into his second season.

    It's no secret Brandon Beane and the Buffalo staff were extremely thrilled to land Bishop in the second round of the draft last year. Unfortunately for everyone Bishop's rookie season didn't go as hoped. He got injured in training camp during the summer to take him out of a three-way competition to start at safety and seemed to play catchup for a lot of the season after returning, especially in his first start in Houston in Week five where he looked lost out there multiple times. Injuries to Damar Hamlin and Taylor Rapp led to Bishop starting late in the season and again in the playoffs and while he struggled some (like everyone else in the secondary) he did show flashes of being a very good player. That leads someone in this week's Podbag to provide a hot (understatement) take that Bishop will be a Pro Bowl or even All Pro safety this year in his sophomore campaign. Patrick discusses that while obviously tempering those kind of expectations.

    Also there's a handful of questions and comments about the NFL schedule that was officially released on Wednesday. How does Patrick feel about it and what did he like and dislike the most now that the slate has been revealed?

    Also discussed are special teams being overrated, a fair evaluation of Beane, passing on Gabe Davis, some fans of this podcast and someone who's clearly not a fan of Nine Eleven Tavern wings. That and much more.

    Major props to Talking Buffalo sponsor, Sonny Red’sat 1841 Abbott Road in Lackawanna, just minutes from Highmark Stadium. We consider them THE most underrated spot for wings, pizza and other great food in Western New York plus it’s a great place to drink and have a great time.

    Special thanks to local Buffalo band, Orange Zestfor allowing us to use their awesome single, “Old Friends” as the new official intro music for Talking Buffalo. Check out Orange Zest and be sure to support not only them, but local music!

    ♦♦♦♦♦

    Follow Patrick Moran/Talking Buffalo Podcast

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    Twitter: @PatrickMoranTB

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    46 mins
  • Buffalo Bills & NFL 2025 Schedule (Over) Reactions
    May 15 2025

    On this episode of Talking Buffalo, Patrick Moran is joined by Joe From Queens and together they have plenty of reactions, perhaps a few of them overeactionary now that the 2025 schedule for the Buffalo Bills and the rest of the NFL has been made official.

    If you like prime times game for the Bills, especially early in the season you're definitely in luck. Once again the Bills are playing night games early and often, four times over the first six weeks to be exact and five overall, three of them at all. Patrick has thoughts on the early onslaught of prime time games for a second straight year as well as not playing any international or holiday games, a surprise to many.

    The guys outline and discuss some stretches of the season that are most interesting, including four of the first five games being at home but going on a stretch of four road games over five weeks close to the end of the season.

    As far as the home stadium tailgaters who like to get it at it early, the Bills only have two with a maximum of three Sunday 1pm home games, including just one before November 16th. Conversely they play three of their expected toughest home games at 4:25 in the second half of the season against Kansas City, Cincinnati and Philadelphia.

    Thoughts are also shared on schedule quirks from the around league including both Kansas City and Dallas playing on both holidays. That plus the Chiefs make NFL history and tons more.

    Major props to Talking Buffalo sponsor, Sonny Red’s at 1841 Abbott Road in Lackawanna, just minutes from Highmark Stadium. We consider them THE most underrated spot for wings, pizza and other great food in Western New York plus it’s a great place to drink and have a great time.

    Special thanks to local Buffalo band, Orange Zest for allowing us to use their awesome single, “Old Friends” as the new official intro music for Talking Buffalo. Check out Orange Zest and be sure to support not only them, but local music!

    ♦♦♦♦♦

    Follow Patrick Moran/Talking Buffalo Podcast

    Substack: Patrick Moran’s Substack

    Twitter: @PatrickMoranTB

    Blue Sky: @PatrickMoranTB.bsky.social

    Instagram: @PatrickMoranTB

    Facebook: Talking Buffalo Podcast

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    1 hr and 1 min
  • Under The Radar Key Bills Talking Points
    May 14 2025

    On this episode of Talking Buffalo, Patrick Moran is joined by Matt Warren of SB Nation to discuss several Buffalo Bills and NFL topics, including a look at eight pretty significant talking points about the Buffalo Bills from last season that Patrick feels have mostly flown under the radar.

    Josh Allen finally won his first MVP and firmly established himself as one of the faces of the league. The Bills again fell short in their quest for a Super Bowl appearance after losing to Kansas City in the playoffs, again. Brandon Beane spent heavily on the defense and clearly let everyone know he feels about the wide receiver position. These and some others are predominant talking points that've remained as such over the past few months.

    But there's some things from season, both good and bad that are still tugging at Patrick a little bit that he wants to discuss with Matt. Among them is an incredible offensive line that played a huge role in Allen getting sacked just 14 times in 17 games. There's also the absolute Buffalo dominance of the AFC east, evidenced by their 24-6 record against the division over their last 30 games. Also, Dorian Williams took a major step in his second year at linebacker, to the point Patrick feels solid about him if he has to start again.

    Conversely, Patrick thinks offensive coordinator Joe Brady has been let off the hook a little bit despite his play calling meltdown in the AFC title game. Also, Brandon Beane's offseason defensive line additions crop was generally pretty lousy.

    Plus, some NFL schedule news as of this recording, media news surrounding two icons of the football broadcasting industry, audio vs video for podcasting and much more.

    You can follow Matt on Twitter @MattRichWarren and be sure to check out Buffalo Rumblingsfor your (really good) daily Bills content.

    Major props to Talking Buffalo sponsor, Sonny Red’s at 1841 Abbott Road in Lackawanna, just minutes from Highmark Stadium. We consider them THE most underrated spot for wings, pizza and other great food in Western New York plus it’s a great place to drink and have a great time.

    Special thanks to local Buffalo band, Orange Zestfor allowing us to use their awesome single, “Old Friends” as the new official intro music for Talking Buffalo. Check out Orange Zest and be sure to support not only them, but local music!

    ♦♦♦♦♦

    Follow Patrick Moran/Talking Buffalo Podcast

    Substack: Patrick Moran’s Substack

    Twitter: @PatrickMoranTB

    Blue Sky: @PatrickMoranTB.bsky.social

    Instagram: @PatrickMoranTB

    Facebook: Talking Buffalo Podcast

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    1 hr and 7 mins
  • Why Is Terry Pegula So Different With Bills Than Sabres?
    May 13 2025
    In this episode of Talking Buffalo, Patrick Moran and guest Chris Ostrander discuss the contrasting perceptions of the Buffalo Bills and Sabres, the significance of Rich Eisen's return to ESPN, and the anticipation surrounding the Bills' upcoming schedule. They delve into the future of head coach Sean McDermott and general manager Brandon Beane, as well as the impact of COVID-19 on the Sabres' spending habits. The conversation highlights the evolving narrative around McDermott and the differing ownership styles of Terry Pegula in relation to both teams. In this conversation, Patrick Moran and Chris Ostrander discuss the current state of the Buffalo Sabres, focusing on ownership dynamics, financial concerns, team spending, and management issues. They explore the challenges the team faces in retaining players and attracting new talent, as well as the sentiment among fans regarding management accountability. The discussion also touches on new roles within the organization and expectations for the upcoming offseason, highlighting the urgency for change and improvement.TakeawaysThe Bills and Sabres are perceived differently by fans.Rich Eisen's return to ESPN marks a significant shift in sports media.The anticipation for the Bills' schedule is high among fans.Sean McDermott's job security is tied to team performance this season.Terry Pegula's ownership style differs significantly between the Bills and Sabres.COVID-19 has impacted the Sabres' spending and operational decisions.Fans are eager for more primetime games for the Bills.The Bills' success has raised expectations for the team's future.The Sabres have struggled to spend to the salary cap effectively.The narrative around Sean McDermott is evolving as he engages more with the media. COVID and financial constraints impact team ownership decisions.Fans feel ownership is not fulfilling promises.The Sabres' spending habits raise concerns about player retention.Management's decisions are scrutinized by fans and analysts alike.The team's inability to attract talent is a significant issue.The Sabres' past trades and acquisitions have often missed the mark.Fan sentiment is at a low point regarding management's effectiveness.New roles in the organization may not address underlying issues.The upcoming offseason is critical for the Sabres' future.There is a sense of urgency for management to make impactful changes.Chapters00:00Introduction and New Beginnings03:03Buffalo Sports Landscape: Bills and Sabres06:06Rich Eisen's Return to ESPN09:05Anticipating the Buffalo Bills' Schedule11:45Sean McDermott and Brandon Beane's Future16:57Terry Pegula: A Tale of Two Owners23:02The Impact of COVID on Sabres Spending27:59Financial Concerns and Ownership Dynamics30:21Team Spending and Player Retention32:40Challenges in Attracting Talent35:57Management and Leadership Issues39:18Fan Sentiment and Management Accountability41:11New Roles and Organizational Changes46:53Looking Ahead: Offseason ExpectationsBe sure to follow Chris on X at @2ITB_Buffalo and check out the Two in the Box blog in addition to the Instigator Podcast.Major props to Talking Buffalo sponsor, Sonny Red’sat 1841 Abbott Road in Lackawanna, just minutes from Highmark Stadium. We consider them THE most underrated spot for wings, pizza and other great food in Western New York plus it’s a great place to drink and have a great time.Special thanks to local Buffalo band, Orange Zestfor allowing us to use their awesome single, “Old Friends” as the new official intro music for Talking Buffalo. Check out Orange Zest and be sure to support not only them, but local music!♦♦♦♦♦Follow Patrick Moran/Talking Buffalo Podcast Substack: Patrick Moran’s SubstackTwitter: @PatrickMoranTBBlue Sky: @PatrickMoranTB.bsky.socialInstagram: @PatrickMoranTBFacebook: Talking Buffalo Podcast
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    51 mins
  • Bills Schedule Predictions & Other Team Musings
    May 12 2025

    On this episode of Talking Buffalo, Patrick Moran is joined by Joe From Queens to offer some predictions on the Buffalo Bills 2025 schedule, which will be made official next Wednesday in addition to several other Bills and other topics.

    Of course, we already know the Bills 2025 opponents and the wait won't be much longer before we actually find out in what order they'll be, but that doesn't stop the guys from taking a stab at how they think the schedule will be. Will there be any international games? How many times will Buffalo play in prime time? How many Sunday 1pm games will they have? Will they play on a holiday? Who will they open the season against? The guys try to guess each of these questions.

    Also, Patrick brings up a text for discussion that really shines a negative light on Sean McDermott without actually saying that he's done a bad job. Still, it's something that deserves to be talking about.

    Meanwhile, Bills rookie camp began and Joe's never cared about anything in his since. Plus Joe's "True or False" segment, Patrick's Mt. Flushmore of lousy TV mothers, comments/questions from listeners and much more.

    Major props to Talking Buffalo sponsor, Sonny Red’s at 1841 Abbott Road in Lackawanna, just minutes from Highmark Stadium. We consider them THE most underrated spot for wings, pizza and other great food in Western New York plus it’s a great place to drink and have a great time.

    ♦♦♦♦♦

    Follow Patrick Moran/Talking Buffalo Podcast

    Substack: Patrick Moran’s Substack

    Twitter: @PatrickMoranTB

    Blue Sky: @PatrickMoranTB.bsky.social

    Instagram: @PatrickMoranTB

    Facebook: Talking Buffalo Podcast

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    Check out "Old Friends" by local Buffalo band Orange Zest, the official intro song for Talking Buffalo!

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    1 hr and 41 mins
  • Favorite Buffalo Bills Offseason Transaction
    May 9 2025

    It's another edition of The Podbag on today's episode of Talking Buffalo, as Patrick Moran is responding to questions, comments and takes from listeners on several topics, including being asked what's his single favorite Buffalo Bills transaction move of the offseason.

    Regardless of how you feel about the Bills offseason, it's indisputable that it's been a very busy one for general manager Brandon Beane and his staff. They've re-signed several of their own veterans to extensions, added a lot of free agents especially on the defensive side of the ball and added nine prospects via the NFL draft. So, which one is Patrick's personal favorite? He runs down a handful of moves that could be in the top spot before explaining why for him it's ultimately the addition of edge rusher Joey Bosa.

    Also, it won't be long before wide receiver Gabe Davis finds a new home after being released by the Jacksonville Jaguars and it's highly unlikely to be with the Buffalo Bills, but at least the possibility is there for right now and fans have plenty to say about that. Patrick has thoughts on people who land on either side of the fence.

    Cole Bishop starting at safety, Joe Brady's brain fart at the most inopportune time last year and Dalton Kincaid needing to step up are also topics, as is the NHL playoffs making a fan hate the Buffalo Sabres even more.

    That plus a food review on The Hoagie Stop on Clinton Street and much more.

    Major props to Talking Buffalo sponsor, Sonny Red’s at 1841 Abbott Road in Lackawanna, just minutes from Highmark Stadium. We consider them THE most underrated spot for wings, pizza and other great food in Western New York plus it’s a great place to drink and have a great time.

    Special thanks to local Buffalo band, Orange Zest for allowing us to use their awesome single, “Old Friends” as the new official intro music for Talking Buffalo. Check out Orange Zest and be sure to support not only them, but local music!

    ♦♦♦♦♦

    Follow Patrick Moran/Talking Buffalo Podcast

    Substack: Patrick Moran’s Substack

    Twitter: @PatrickMoranTB

    Blue Sky: @PatrickMoranTB.bsky.social

    Instagram: @PatrickMoranTB

    Facebook: Talking Buffalo Podcast

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    46 mins
  • Interest In A Gabe Davis Reunion? (Plus, Sabres Stay Laughable)
    May 8 2025

    On this episode of Talking Buffalo, Patrick Moran is joined by PK from the Buffalo Sports Collective for a conversation covering several Buffalo sports topics, including a potential Gabe Davis reunion with the Bills, the Sabres remaining laughable and a Bandits championship preview.

    The Jacksonville Jaguars released Davis just one year after signing him to a three-year, $39 million deal. Naturally, talk on social media immediately began to pour in about a potential Davis return to the Bills. The guys discuss it and while so many factors make it feel (highly) unlikely, such as what the room already looks like and Gabe having zero special teams value, it's not something that should be ruled completely out until he signs with another team. Plus, would a Gabe return show a lack of confidence in the player it feels like they drafted to replace him to begin with in Keon Coleman?

    Also, the Sabres announced Eric Staal is being hired to be a special assistant to general manager Kevyn Adams, who somehow reportedly is keeping his GM job and will return in the role for a sixth season. That coupled with a few other moves and rumored moves just has the guys laughing and of course, leads to yet another Patrick rant against the organization he considers the worst in all of professional sports. He's probably not alone---is the faith among the fan base quite literally the lowest it's ever been?

    Thankfully Buffalo sports fans have the Bandits to root for (if you're not, you should be). PK covers the Bandits brilliantly for Buffalo Sports Collective and has plenty of insight as the team gets ready to try and win their third consecutive NLL championship that begins in Buffalo on Friday May 16th. That and plenty more.

    You can follow PK on Twitter @PK_BSC and check out the Buffalo Sports Collective podcast.

    Major props to Talking Buffalo sponsor, Sonny Red’s at 1841 Abbott Road in Lackawanna, just minutes from Highmark Stadium. We consider them THE most underrated spot for wings, pizza and other great food in Western New York plus it’s a great place to drink and have a great time.

    ♦♦♦♦♦

    Follow Patrick Moran/Talking Buffalo Podcast

    Substack: Patrick Moran’s Substack

    Twitter: @PatrickMoranTB

    Blue Sky: @PatrickMoranTB.bsky.social

    Instagram: @PatrickMoranTB

    Facebook: Talking Buffalo Podcast

    ♦♦♦♦♦

    Special thanks to local Buffalo band, Orange Zest for allowing us to use their awesome single, “Old Friends” as the new official intro music for Talking Buffalo. Check out Orange Zest and be sure to support not only them, but local music!

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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • 10 Buffalo Bills Predictions Before Week One
    May 7 2025

    On this episode of Talking Buffalo, Patrick Moran goes over ten Buffalo Bills predictions he has that will play out between now and the Week one start of the 2025 NFL regular season.

    It's never too early for predictions, even though we certainly reserve the right to change them at some point down the line. For now though, Patrick feels pretty good about 10 things he sees happening. Among those is a returning Tre White impressing enough during the summer to at least temporarily take back control of a starting cornerback job alongside Christian Benford, even with first-round draft pick Maxwell Hairston. As Patrick explains, it's no indictment against Hairston as much as a (hopefully) fully healthy Tre White having the experience and confidence from head coach Sean McDermott that he can put White in to begin the season while letting Hairston ease his way before eventually taking over.

    Also, White's return felt great to a lot of Bills fans but between he and a trio of cornerback draft picks last month, the news isn't great for Dane Jackson, who Patrick predicts will have a second stint with the Bills that's short lived.

    James Cook likely won't get any extension in 2025 and almost certainly not before the season but Patrick doesn't think Cook's going to be an issue going into training camp in July. He does see another Bills veteran getting inked to an extension before the season starts. That plus a potentially big camp battle at safety, an unheralded rookie from last year Patrick thinks can take a big step in 2025 and much more.

    Major props to Talking Buffalo sponsor, Sonny Red’s at 1841 Abbott Road in Lackawanna, just minutes from Highmark Stadium. We consider them THE most underrated spot for wings, pizza and other great food in Western New York plus it’s a great place to drink and have a great time.

    Special thanks to local Buffalo band, Orange Zest for allowing us to use their awesome single, “Old Friends” as the new official intro music for Talking Buffalo. Check out Orange Zest and be sure to support not only them, but local music!

    ♦♦♦♦♦

    Follow Patrick Moran/Talking Buffalo Podcast

    Substack: Patrick Moran’s Substack

    Twitter: @PatrickMoranTB

    Blue Sky: @PatrickMoranTB.bsky.social

    Instagram: @PatrickMoranTB

    Facebook: Talking Buffalo Podcast

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    40 mins