Falcons Struggle with Offensive Line Issues as Playoff Hopes Waver
The Atlanta Falcons have found themselves facing unexpected struggles on the offensive line, a unit that was once considered a strength. Despite entering the 2025 season with high hopes and returning all five starters, the Falcons have encountered difficulties that have contributed to their current 3-4 record. While the offensive line had exceeded expectations in previous seasons, recent performances have shown vulnerabilities that have impacted both the running and passing game.
Injuries and Depth Issues
The Falcons were dealt a significant blow when right tackle Kaleb McGary was placed on injured reserve due to a knee injury. McGary, a key contributor to the line, has been a staple on the right side, and his absence has forced the team to make adjustments.
“It’s been tough losing Kaleb,” said offensive line coach Chris Morgan. “We’ve had to shuffle the deck a bit, but the next man has to step up. It’s part of the game, and we have to adjust.”
With McGary out, third-string right tackle Elijah Wilkinson has taken on a larger role. Wilkinson, though solid, has struggled at times, allowing one sack and 16 pressures in his extended playing time.
“It’s a big responsibility, but I’m doing everything I can to hold it down,” Wilkinson said after a tough loss to the 49ers. “I know the offense relies on the line to protect and create lanes. I’m just focused on getting better every game.”
Storm Norton, a swing tackle who had been sidelined with an ankle injury, has now been designated to return from injured reserve. His experience could provide much-needed depth and stability to the unit moving forward.
“I’m just focusing on getting back to full health and doing what I can to help the team,” Norton said. “There’s a lot of work to do, but I’m ready to come back and contribute to this offensive line.”
Performance Decline
Despite the injuries, the Falcons’ offensive line had initially exceeded expectations, but recent performances have exposed vulnerabilities. In a recent game against the San Francisco 49ers, the offensive line struggled to establish the run game, and quarterback Michael Penix Jr. faced increased pressure throughout the game. Penix was even strip-sacked, resulting in a costly turnover.
“When we don’t play well up front, we don’t play well as a team,” said Penix after the game. “The offensive line and the offense need to get on the same page. We all need to execute better.”
Head coach Raheem Morris also echoed Penix's sentiments, emphasizing the need for improvement across the board.
“We need to be better up front. That’s the foundation of everything we do offensively. If we’re not winning the battle in the trenches, we’re not going to win the game,”
Looking Ahead
As the Falcons prepare for their Week 9 game against the New England Patriots, the team is hopeful that the return of Norton and further adjustments along the offensive line will stabilize the unit. The Falcons are focused on finding solutions to the issues that have plagued their offense, especially in the running game.
“We’re not where we want to be, but we have the talent to turn it around,” said left guard Matthew Bergeron. “We just need to focus on the details and execute our assignments. The rest will fall into place.”
With the offensive line’s struggles becoming a central theme, the Falcons will need to continue adapting and finding ways to improve their play in the trenches. The team remains hopeful that the line will regain its form, but much will depend on how quickly they can address their internal issues and come together as a cohesive unit.
“We’ve got to keep working, and we know we can get it right,” offensive tackle Jake Matthews said. “This team has what it takes. We just need to play up to our potential.”
As the season progresses, the Falcons will rely heavily on their offensive line to push through these challenges and regain the offensive balance they’ve lacked in recent weeks.
BREAKING NEWS: Former Commanders Star, Joe Theismann, has rocked the worlds of sports and culture by donating $7 million to support Turning Point USA’s upcoming "All-American Halftime Show." The event—founded by Charlie Kirk's organization and now led by his wife, Erika—is designed as a patriotic alternative to the NFL’s official Super Bowl LX Halftime Show featuring Bad Bunny on February 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium in California.
In a move that has sent tremors across the sports and cultural landscape, NFL legend and former Washington Commanders quarterback Joe Theismann has announced a $7 million personal donation to
Turning Point USA’s upcoming “All-American Halftime Show.”
The show — organized by Turning Point USA, founded by Charlie Kirk and now led by his wife Erika Kirk — is being billed as a
“patriotic, family-friendly alternative” to the NFL’s official Super Bowl LX Halftime Show, which will feature global superstar Bad Bunny on February 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California
Theismann’s decision — merging the worlds of sports, patriotism, and American cultural debate — is being hailed by supporters as a “bold stand for traditional values” and criticized by others as a
“politicization of football nostalgia.”
Either way, one thing is certain: Joe Theismann has just reignited the culture war blazing at the heart of American sports.
“The Super Bowl Used to Be About Unity — Not Division.”
In a statement released through his foundation, Theismann explained his motivation for supporting the new event, citing a desire to “restore the spirit of unity and pride” that he feels the Super Bowl has lost.
“I’ve loved football my whole life. The Super Bowl used to be a celebration of America — our faith, our families, our freedom,” Theismann said.
“Somewhere along the way, it turned into a stage for messages that divide us instead of bringing us together. The ‘All-American Halftime Show’ is about getting back to what made this country great.”
According to Turning Point USA, Theismann’s $7 million donation will cover a significant portion of production costs for the event, which is planned to take place simultaneously with the official halftime show
just a few miles from Levi’s Stadium.
The “All-American Halftime Show” — A Patriotic Statement
Turning Point USA first announced the “All-American Halftime Show” in late 2025, positioning it as a
celebration of American tradition, faith, and community. The event will reportedly feature live performances from country, gospel, and rock musicians, as well as appearances from veterans, first responders, and athletes known for their philanthropic work.
Erika Kirk, the event’s executive director, described it as “a love letter to America’s heartland.”
“This is about reminding people what we stand for — not just as fans of football, but as citizens who love this country,” she said.
“Joe’s generosity and leadership embody exactly what this event is about: character, courage, and conviction.”
Sources close to the project say the event will be broadcast live online and carried by several conservative media outlets, including
The Daily Wire, Real America’s Voice, and TPUSA Live.
From the Gridiron to a Cultural Crossroads
Joe Theismann, now 76, remains one of the most respected names in NFL history. The former Super Bowl–winning quarterback led Washington to victory in
Super Bowl XVII (1983) and earned NFL MVP honors the same year.
But Theismann’s influence has long extended beyond the field. A successful broadcaster, entrepreneur, and motivational speaker, he’s also known for his outspoken patriotism and belief in traditional American values.
His $7 million donation to the “All-American Halftime Show” marks one of his most visible cultural statements to date — and signals a growing trend of former athletes stepping into the national debate over the
direction of American sports and entertainment.
“This isn’t about politics,” Theismann told The Washington Times. “It’s about pride. It’s about reminding people that we can celebrate our country without shame.”
A Cultural Showdown — “Faith and Family vs. Fame and Flash”
The NFL’s decision to feature Bad Bunny as the Super Bowl LX halftime performer has been met with both excitement and controversy. Supporters praise the choice as
“diverse and forward-thinking,” while critics accuse the league of turning away from its roots in order to “chase global entertainment trends.”
Turning Point USA’s event — now boosted by Theismann’s high-profile endorsement — has effectively turned the
Super Bowl Halftime Show into a symbolic cultural battlefield.
Political analyst Mark Levin called Theismann’s donation “a moment of courage”:
“He’s putting his money where his values are. Theismann isn’t attacking anyone — he’s just giving Americans a choice.”
Meanwhile, others see it differently. Sports journalist Jemele Hill wrote:
“This isn’t about patriotism — it’s about polarization. Turning Point USA is using football nostalgia to push its ideology. Joe Theismann’s involvement gives it legitimacy it didn’t have before.”
Fans Divided but Engaged
Across social media, the reaction has been electric. Hashtags like #AllAmericanHalftime, #Theismann7Million, and #SuperBowlCultureWar are trending nationwide.
Many fans applauded Theismann’s conviction:
“He’s old school — and that’s exactly what this country needs right now,” one user posted.
“I’d rather watch Theismann’s halftime show than anything with Bad Bunny,” another wrote.
But not everyone agrees. Others called the move “divisive” and “unnecessary.”
“Theismann was a hero on the field,” one critic tweeted, “but this just turns sports into politics.”
Support From the Sports World
Theismann’s gesture has drawn praise from several fellow athletes and commentators known for their patriotic stances.
Former Broncos quarterback Tim Tebow posted a message on X, saying:
“What Joe is doing is powerful. Using his influence for faith and country — that’s leadership.”
Even Bo Nix, the young Denver Broncos quarterback, commented during a press appearance:
“Joe’s always been about integrity. Whether you agree or not, you have to respect that he’s standing for something he believes in.”
NFL legend Brett Favre reportedly reached out privately to Theismann to express admiration, calling his move
“a stand for what the game used to mean.”
Theismann’s Legacy — “Faith, Family, and Football”
For Joe Theismann, this isn’t about creating controversy — it’s about carrying a legacy. In past interviews, he’s often spoken about the importance of keeping football connected to American values.
“Football teaches discipline, teamwork, and humility,” Theismann once said. “It’s not just a sport — it’s a reflection of who we are.”
His donation, according to insiders, was made through
The Theismann Foundation, a charitable organization that supports veterans, youth mentorship, and family education programs. Part of the funds will also go toward covering travel costs for families of military members who will attend the event as honored guests.
“This isn’t just about a show,” Theismann emphasized. “It’s about gratitude — to the men and women who keep this country free.”
Turning Point USA Responds — “This Is a Movement”
Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk responded to the news of Theismann’s donation with an emotional statement on X:
“Joe Theismann’s generosity reminds us why we fight — for faith, family, and freedom. The All-American Halftime Show isn’t just an event; it’s a movement.”
His wife Erika Kirk, who now oversees the project’s operations, added:
“We’re not competing with the NFL. We’re creating a space for people who feel unseen — people who love this country and want to celebrate it without apology.”
The Bigger Picture — “Two Halftimes, One Nation Watching”
With less than a year to go before Super Bowl LX, the stage is set for one of the most unique cultural moments in modern sports history — two competing halftime shows representing two very different visions of America.
One will take place on the NFL’s biggest stage, headlined by a global pop icon. The other — born from patriotism, faith, and nostalgia — will be powered by an NFL legend and a grassroots movement.
And somewhere in the middle, millions of Americans will be watching — not just to see who performs better, but to decide what the future of their country’s most sacred sport should represent.
TIME UPDATE
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Event: “All-American Halftime Show” — Turning Point USA’s patriotic alternative to the Super Bowl LX halftime.
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Date: February 8, 2026.
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Location: Santa Clara, California (near Levi’s Stadium).
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Donation: Joe Theismann contributes $7 million through The Theismann Foundation.
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Founder: Charlie Kirk; Directed by Erika Kirk.
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Purpose: Promote faith, family, and patriotism as cultural values.
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Official NFL Performer: Bad Bunny.
More than a dog: Harry Hedman saved thousands of humane society pets in 14 years of life
The Lightning captain's beloved French Bulldog also helped raise more than $100,000 for the Humane Society of Tampa Bay.
Harry Hedman checked a lot of boxes.
He was a French Bulldog; beloved member of Tampa Bay Lightning captain Victor Hedman’s family; Tampa celebrity; Stanley Cup Champ.
And perhaps most impressively, the gentle pup with trademark perked ears and loads of personality was also a philanthropist for animals in need.
Harry was laid to rest earlier this month after 14 years of life, but only after raising more than $100,000 for the Humane Society of Tampa Bay throughout his lifetime. The various initiatives helped other pets find their forever homes.
Harry was the best dog Hedman and his wife, Sanna, could have asked for.
“After a tough game or a good game, he was always home and waiting for you,” Hedman said of his four-legged best friend. “And obviously when we had kids, how good he was with the kids. He was a funny dog. There was a lot of different stuff he did that was super, super funny, but we just loved how much he cared about me and Sanna and our two boys. It’s tough to put into words exactly what he meant, but he’s deeply missed.”
The Hedmans added Harry to their family during the defenseman's third NHL season, and the white-and-black coated pup went on to raise thousands as the face of numerous fundraising and merchandise efforts over the next 14 years.
Many seasons ago, the Tampa Bay Lightning organization was looking for a new way to give back to the community. Harry’s friendly face became the perfect figure to raise awareness for other pets in the Tampa Bay area.
The Hedmans met Ornella Varchi, who works as chief advancement officer for the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, and began to raise awareness for homeless animals through Harry. During the COVID pandemic, the Hedman family even fostered puppies to be Harry’s roommates until they found homes of their own.
The initiatives led to Harry-themed jerseys, t-shirts, hats, replica stuffed animals and a wine bottle auction that combined to raise more than $100,000. The Lightning Foundation also donated $7,700 to the humane society in Harry’s name on Oct. 1 after his passing.
“Harry’s done a good job kind of being the face of the humane society…Without knowing it, he brought in a lot of money for a great cause,” Hedman said. “He’s gonna live on forever on those jerseys and the hats and the plush toys and everything like that. Those are phenomenal memories that we’ll always have, so it was a fun thing that came about.”
Funds raised all supported the medical costs for animals at the humane society. Every animal that arrives is sterilized, vaccinated and microchipped, which costs around $350. Others might need medication, surgeries or further treatment.
All funds raised by Harry helped offset those costs. Varchi said Harry did more than just be a face for a nonprofit organization—he saved lives.
“Everything that they've done to help not only raise funds through the shirts, the toys and the hats and everything Harry did for us, but also just by raising the awareness and having others in the community support us, they truly helped to save thousands of lives.”
Hedman admitted Harry wasn’t all that quick to play with his own plush toy replica, but the Hedman family was happy to see their beloved best friend help others in his time with them.
“There's so many animals out there in need and families in need, so to be able to raise money for that and help them—and hopefully dogs or cats or other animals—find them a forever home, that was very important for us.”
The Hedmans have a plan to commemorate Harry, but they are going to keep that within the family for now. They will likely visit the Humane Society of Tampa Bay in the future when they are ready for a possible new addition, but the hole left by Harry is large right now.
And it makes sense. Harry’s paws were small, but he made an impact much larger than most dogs get to bring in their lifetime.
Just ask Varchi.
“Our gratitude that we have for Victor, his family and Harry is huge. What Harry did really exemplifies how one animal, one pet, can truly change our lives and make our lives so much richer and also help those around us,” she said. “I think sometimes people forget just how important animals are in our lives, and I think Harry was just the perfect definition of that.”
