The Shawn Mackey Show: Season 2, Episode 10 — College Football Chaos, Cubs Playoff Hopes & Bears Rising

 

The latest episode of The Shawn Mackey Show dives deep into an action-packed week across college football, Major League Baseball, and the NFL. Shawn breaks down NCAA upsets, the Chicago Cubs’ return to postseason success, and why the Chicago Bears might finally be turning a corner.

College Football: Ranking Madness and Week 6 Matchups

Week 5 of the college football season delivered plenty of upsets and ranking reshuffles. Illinois shocked USC with a 34–32 win, climbing to No. 22 despite fumbling twice at the goal line. Virginia’s upset over Florida State also sent shockwaves through the rankings. Yet, Ohio State maintained its No. 1 position, edging Washington 24–6 in a game that felt much closer than the score suggests.

The ever-changing landscape of the AP Top 25 and ESPN power rankings continues to confuse fans and analysts alike. While Ohio State, Oregon, and Miami hold the top three spots in both systems, other placements — like Texas jumping from No. 10 to No. 9 without playing — highlight how inconsistent these rankings can be. Since the College Football Playoff began in 2014, only Alabama in 2020 started and finished at No. 1 while winning the national title, proving that preseason hype rarely predicts postseason glory.

Looking ahead to Week 6, key matchups include Texas vs. Florida, Alabama hosting Vanderbilt, Miami taking on Florida State, and Illinois facing the No. 1-ranked Ohio State Buckeyes. Shawn notes that Illinois shouldn’t drop from the Top 25 even with a loss to the top team — especially after their offensive display last week.

MLB: Cubs Break Playoff Drought

Shawn celebrates the Chicago Cubs’ first playoff victory since 2017, defeating the Padres 3–1. Despite early defensive errors, the Cubs clawed back with strong pitching and timely hitting. With Cade Horton on the injured list, the team’s pitching strategy remains a hot topic. Will Craig Counsell rely on Andrew Kittredge or turn to struggling starter Shota, who’s allowed 31 home runs this season?

Shawn warns that Chicago’s offense must capitalize on opportunities — unlike the Yankees, who failed to score with bases loaded and no outs. He also points out that while the Dodgers held off a furious Reds comeback, Shohei Ohtani continues to prove his worth as MLB’s premier talent. Looking ahead, Shawn hopes the Cubs can advance past San Diego and challenge the Milwaukee Brewers in the NLDS.

NFL: Bears Show Progress Behind Caleb Williams

Turning to the NFL, Shawn shares optimism about the Chicago Bears and quarterback Caleb Williams. After inconsistent play early in the season, Williams is starting to show leadership and composure under pressure. The Bears’ recent win against the Raiders — sealed by a dramatic blocked field goal — might mark a turning point.

Defensive injuries remain a concern, but young players like Noah Sewell and Tyreek Stevenson are stepping up. Shawn also praises rookie Ozzy Trapilo for his strong debut on the offensive line, replacing Braxton Jones and limiting Maxx Crosby’s impact. With the Bears entering a bye week, the coaching staff has time to reassess and prepare for their next matchup against the Washington Commanders.

As Shawn puts it, this season is about growth, resilience, and finding the right mix of players who can keep Chicago’s momentum alive — both on the diamond and the gridiron.

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