Justin and Maria are back in studio to discuss all things from the world of football (the soccer kind). This week is all about the great American tradition of “playoffs.” We discuss the various formats used throughout history, from the pre-MLS era to recent changes influenced by star players like David Beckham and Lionel Messi. Is the playoff format still relevant? Has it ever been?

Welcome back pumpkin spice season I mean English Premier League! On today's podcast Justin and Maria talk about EPL's matchweek 1, some antics from Arsenal, and the state of the kits--with a specific focus on the neck region. They also bring it back to MLS and chat about changes happening at the Chicago Fire with the announced exit of sporting director Georg Heitz and DP Xherdan Shaqiri. So sad to say goodbye. But it's also time to say hello to Mauricio Pochettino as we welcome him to the USMNT. Big news as the USL introduces it's latest addition: the USL Super League--a designated Division One women's league. In the post-olympic void, Maria and Justin discuss the history of the very first Women's soccer game in the US dating back to 1893, and what we can do to make sure we keep women's soccer at the front of our minds.

Today on the pod we welcome special guest Joe Novak of the Northern Guard, a Detroit City FC supporters group. He shares about the rich history of soccer in Detroit, their unique international connections, and the amazingly strong TIFO and supporter culture of this USL team. Maria and Justin also chat about this week in global football, breaking down the MLS playoffs, a lack-luster Noche d'Or, Dortmund supporters political message, and the NWSL final between OL Reign and Gotham FC.