Yardbarker

Eric Smithling

Eric Smithling is a writer based in New Orleans, LA, whose byline also appears on Athlon Sports. He has been with Yardbarker since September 2022, primarily covering the NFL and college football, but also the NBA, WNBA, men’s and women’s college basketball, NHL, tennis and golf. He holds a film studies degree from the University of New Orleans. You can find him on Twitter/X and Threads at @ericsmithling and at Bluesky at @ericsmithling.bsky.social.

EXPERTISE:

NFL, College Football, NBA, Men's and Women's College Basketball, NHL

'Joining Dan Marino in history books'? Dolphins' Tua Tagovailoa shifting narrative

Arguably no quarterback had as much pressure on him entering the 2022 season than Tagovailoa, and so far he has delivered.

LeBron James, ex-Steeler Ryan Clark impressed by Browns Pro Bowl RB Nick Chubb

Steelers coach Mike Tomlin praised Chubb as the difference-maker in the game, and linebacker Alex Highsmith called Chubb "one of the best backs in the league," as well.

Star DE Cameron Jordan must jump-start Saints' pitiful pass rush

As the leader on the defensive line, Jordan must be the catalyst for the Saints to get the pass rush back on track.

Why Michael Thomas could improve on his strong start to 2022 season

While the offense for the New Orleans Saints has yet to find a rhythm through two games, it has a pulse because of Michael Thomas, who is flashing his old All-Pro form. Is there reason to believe he could improve on his strong start?

Jameis Winston still has faith in Chris Olave: 'Rookie with a veteran mindset'

Winston's passer rating when targeting Olave is 49.2, or 30 points below average.

Sean Payton would return to coaching 'if the right situation presented itself'

While at first talking about how much he enjoys his current job as a FOX NFL analyst, Payton also admitted he would consider a return "if the right situation presented itself."

Saints struggle mightily when Alvin Kamara is out of the lineup

The team has struggled to find the win column when their star RB is unavailable.