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When center Jason Kelce takes the field for the Philadelphia Eagles, football fans from around the world tune in to witness his relentless style of play. At just 6 feet and 300 pounds, Kelce is undersized for his position but makes up for it with tremendous toughness, technique, and leadership. His unyielding effort on every single snap has earned him widespread admiration from NFL viewers globally.

Kelce has been the anchor of the Eagles’ offensive line since 2011 and is considered one of the best centers in the league. He is known for finishing every play, even when opposing defensive linemen twice his size are barreling towards him. Kelce takes on blocks with force and determination, allowing running backs to find holes and giving quarterbacks precious seconds in the pocket. His film is studied by offensive line coaches worldwide as an example of perfect technique and leverage.

Beyond just his on-field skills, Kelce’s style of play also resonates with international fans. In many countries around the world, football is seen as the ultimate team sport where individuals must sacrifice their bodies for the greater good of the group. Kelce epitomizes this team-first mentality with his relentless effort on every snap, no matter the score or down and distance. Fans appreciate that Kelce leaves everything he has on the field for his teammates. His willingness to put his body on the line play after play, despite his small stature, is admired globally.

Kelce backed up his impressive regular season performances with a dominant playoff run in 2017. He was a key leader as the Eagles went on an improbable Super Bowl run, culminating with a victory over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LII. Kelce’s ability to elevate his game under the brightest lights on the grandest stage added to his growing global reputation. Football fans worldwide were drawn in by Philadelphia’s underdog story, and Kelce’s relentless leadership in the trenches was a big reason for their championship success.

In addition to his on-field accomplishments, Kelce’s charitable work off the field has also expanded his positive influence globally. In 2018, Kelce and his wife, Kylie, started their own foundation called Big Baller Works to combat homelessness and empower youth through education. The foundation partners with local Philadelphia organizations to provide housing, job training, and academic support for those in need.

Kelce’s commitment to philanthropy resonates with international audiences. In many parts of the world plagued by poverty, homelessness and lack of education, Kelce serves as an inspirational role model using his platform and resources to give back. His charitable efforts demonstrate using fame and fortune to uplift others, which garners respect on a global scale. Big Baller Works continues to grow its impact, adding to Kelce’s reputation as an NFL star who truly cares about his community.

In addition to his on-field dominance and off-field philanthropy, Kelce’s fun-loving and outspoken persona has also contributed to his widespread popularity. He frequently engages with fans on social media, showing off his witty sense of humor through comedic videos and amusing interactions. Kelce does not take himself too seriously and is willing to laugh along with jokes at his own expense. His down-to-earth and relatable personality resonates with audiences worldwide who appreciate authenticity from their sports heroes.

Kelce also willingly participates in interviews where he shares thoughtful perspectives on football strategy, leadership, and life beyond the game. While focused and intense during games, Kelce is relaxed, jovial and insightful when speaking to reporters. He represents the NFL in a positive light through candid discussions that appeal to global audiences. Kelce’s multi-dimensional personality adds layers to his reputation that go beyond just stats and highlights.

Another factor fueling interest in Kelce’s story is his brotherly rivalry with Travis Kelce, the star tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs. The two brothers frequently take playful jabs at each other on social media, captivating fans with their sibling dynamic. Their good-natured trash talk and obvious mutual respect for one another’s talents is compelling to global audiences with siblings of their own. The sibling rivalry between the Kelce brothers adds another dimension to their already intriguing personal narratives.

From his relentless play to his charitable efforts, fun personality and brotherly bond, Jason Kelce has developed a global reputation that extends far beyond Philadelphia. At just 32 years old heading into his 10th NFL season, Kelce continues cementing his legacy as one of the toughest and most respectable centers to ever play the game. With a championship already under his belt, Kelce is still hungry for more titles. As long as he continues dominating in the trenches and uplifting others off the field, Kelce’s influence and fanbase will keep growing across borders. He serves as an inspirational role model for football fans worldwide with his unique combination of grit, heart and humanity.

Patrick Mahomes has established himself as one of the best and most exciting quarterbacks in the NFL. As the leader of the Kansas City Chiefs, he has achieved Super Bowl and league MVP honors at a young age. However, Mahomes’ stellar on-field performance is no accident – it is the result of diligent self-care that keeps his body and mind primed to perform at the highest level.

The Physical Demands of an NFL Quarterback

Playing quarterback in the NFL is an incredibly physically taxing job. They face constant pressure in the pocket from onrushing defenders, take big hits when sacked, and are required to make crisp throws downfield throughout the course of long games. On top of that, the NFL season is a 17-week grind that sees teams play almost every week from September through January or February. It’s no surprise that many quarterbacks break down physically over such a punishing schedule.

To combat the rigors of the position, Mahomes prioritizes taking care of his body through rest, nutrition, injury prevention, and recovery. As he told reporters, “Taking care of my body is a huge part of my routine. In this league, you have to be available to play every single week.”

Getting Quality Rest

One of the most important aspects of Mahomes’ self-care regimen is ensuring he gets sufficient sleep each night, especially during the season. NFL players have short turnarounds between games, often with only a few days of rest separating contests. Quality sleep is vital for repairing muscles and preventing fatigue from accumulating.

Mahomes aims for 8-9 hours of sleep per night when possible. He limits screen time before bed and sticks to a consistent bedtime routine. Getting the proper amount of rest allows his body to recover from the physical pounding it takes on gamedays and keeps him fresh for practices and future games. Teammates note how well-rested Mahomes seems even during the busiest parts of the season.

Focus on Nutrition

In addition to rest, Mahomes pays close attention to fueling his body properly through nutrition. He consults regularly with the Chiefs’ performance nutritionists to ensure he’s getting enough calories, protein, vitamins, and minerals in his diet to support an elite athlete’s needs.

Some key aspects of Mahomes’ nutrition plan include eating a high-protein breakfast to start the day, focusing on lean meats and complex carbs for lunch and dinner, and snacking on nutritious foods like Greek yogurt, nuts, and fruit. He avoids excessive sugar, processed foods, and empty calories. Staying hydrated is also a priority, as Mahomes drinks plenty of water throughout each day.

This clean eating supports his training, helps him recover from workouts and games, and gives him sustained energy without any crashes. Team chef Charlton Smith noted that Mahomes’ nutrition is “dialed in” and plays a big role in his success.

Injury Prevention Techniques

Playing through injury is an unfortunate reality for many NFL players. But Mahomes looks to reduce his risk of getting hurt through targeted injury prevention routines. He works with the Chiefs’ training staff on mobility, flexibility, and activation exercises to keep his muscles primed and loose.

Some specific techniques Mahomes employs include:

– Dynamic warmups before practices like high knees, butt kicks, and karaoke to increase blood flow and prepare his body.

– Stretching all major muscle groups, with an emphasis on his shoulders, hips, hamstrings and lower back which are vulnerable areas for QBs.

– Soft tissue work like foam rolling to relieve muscle tightness and trigger point release.

– Strength training with an emphasis on core, rotator cuff and lower body muscles to improve stability.

– Proper mechanics when throwing to avoid unnecessary stress on his arm.

Staying diligent with these prevention strategies helps Mahomes maintain mobility and resilience so he’s less prone to soft tissue injuries over the long season. It’s a major reason he’s been so durable despite the physical beating the position entails.

The Mental Side of Self-Care

While physical recovery is obviously important, Mahomes also prioritizes his mental well-being through various self-care practices. Playing quarterback at an elite level requires tremendous focus, poise under pressure, and quick decision making. Taking care of his mental state supports these crucial skills.

Meditation and Visualization

To sharpen his focus and stay calm in big moments, Mahomes incorporates daily meditation and visualization into his routine. He sits quietly for 10-15 minutes and clears his mind of distractions, focusing only on his breathing. This helps him achieve a relaxed yet alert mental state.

Mahomes also visualizes positive game scenarios in his mind. He’ll imagine successful plays unfolding and envision making the right reads and throws. This mental rehearsal improves his processing and muscle memory for gameday. Teammates note how poised Mahomes seems even in tense situations, a testament to his mental preparation.

Managing Stress

Dealing with the pressures of NFL stardom and leading a franchise can induce high levels of stress. To manage this, Mahomes makes sure to schedule downtime away from football for relaxing activities. He’ll go fishing, spend time with family or play video games to unwind and decompress from the rigors of the week.

Mahomes also works on positive self-talk and reframing mistakes in a constructive way rather than dwelling on errors. This emotional resilience is vital for consistently performing under intense scrutiny and pressure packed situations. Team leaders praise how even-keeled Mahomes remains regardless of circumstances.

Work-Life Balance

Finding harmony between his professional and personal lives is another area Mahomes focuses on for his mental wellbeing. While football is his passion, he makes sure to carve out quality time for relationships outside of the game.

Whether it’s date nights with his wife Brittany or family dinners, Mahomes prioritizes non-football activities to recharge emotionally. This balance prevents burnout and allows him to bring his best self to work each day. Coaches appreciate his laser-like football focus yet ability to detach when off the clock.

Improved Decision Making

All of Mahomes’ self-care contributes to what may be his most valuable asset – his incredible ability to process the field and make split-second decisions under duress. When well-rested, focused and free of mental clutter, he can read defenses rapidly and identify the best throwing lanes.

Teammates are in awe of Mahomes’ pre-snap reads and willingness to attempt daring off-platform throws other QBs wouldn’t even consider. But it’s his mental preparation that allows such pinpoint execution even when pressured or the play breaks down. Former coach Doug Pederson described Mahomes’ mental processing as “light years ahead of the curve.”

The Results of Self-Care

Since becoming the Chiefs’ starter in 2018, Mahomes has put together an MVP caliber resume thus far. He’s led the franchise to four straight AFC Championship games and captured a Super Bowl title in his first full season as the starter. Perhaps most impressively, Mahomes has only missed one game due to injury over five years as a starter.

His combination of physical gifts and diligent self-care regimen have allowed him to produce eye-popping stats at a pace rarely seen in the NFL. Mahomes continues shattering records and highlights his otherworldly playmaking ability on a weekly basis.

More than the stats though, Mahomes’ teammates and coaches appreciate how available and consistent in top form he is for his team. They know his self-care habits are a big reason the offense can rely on him to deliver week in and week out despite the grueling schedule. His leadership on and off the field has cemented Mahomes as the unquestioned face of the Chiefs franchise.

At only 27 years old, Mahomes still has his best football likely ahead of him. As long as he maintains his commitment to recovery, nutrition, mental preparation and overall well-being, there’s no reason to think he can’t sustain elite production for many more seasons. Prioritizing self-care will continue powering Mahomes’ pursuit of championships as one of the defining quarterbacks of his generation.

Bɾιttа𝚗y MаҺσmеs ιs sҺаɾι𝚗ɡ а𝚗 аԀσɾаblе mσmе𝚗t bеtwее𝚗 ԀаuɡҺtеɾ Stеɾlι𝚗ɡ а𝚗Ԁ Kа𝚗sаs Cιty CҺιеfs quаɾtеɾbаcƙ Pаtɾιcƙ MаҺσmеs.

о𝚗 TuеsԀаy, tҺе mσm σf twσ, 27, ρσstеԀ а swееt ᴠιԀеσ tσ Һеɾ I𝚗stаɡɾаm Stσɾy аs Pаtɾιcƙ, аlsσ 27, lеft fσɾ fσσtbаll tɾаι𝚗ι𝚗ɡ cаmρ. “Sаy byе byе ԀаԀԀy!” Bɾιttа𝚗y tеlls Stеɾlι𝚗ɡ. “Byе byе ԀаԀԀy,” tҺе tσԀԀlеɾ ɾеρеаts.

 

“I lσᴠе yσu,” Bɾιttа𝚗y tеlls Һеɾ ԀаuɡҺtеɾ tσ sаy. “I lσᴠе yσu,” Stеɾlι𝚗ɡ ɾеρеаts.

“Blσw Һιm ƙιssеs,” tҺе Kа𝚗sаs Cιty Cuɾɾе𝚗t cσ-σw𝚗еɾ sаys tσ Stеɾlι𝚗ɡ, wҺσ ι𝚗 tuɾ𝚗 blσws ƙιssеs аs Һеɾ fаtҺеɾ’s cаɾ ρulls σut σf tҺеιɾ Ԁɾιᴠеwаy.

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“Sе𝚗Ԁι𝚗ɡ @ρаtɾιcƙmаҺσmеs σff tσ cаmρ,” Bɾιttа𝚗y wɾσtе σ𝚗 tҺе ᴠιԀеσ.

Bɾιttа𝚗y а𝚗Ԁ Pаtɾιcƙ sҺаɾе ԀаuɡҺtеɾ Stеɾlι𝚗ɡ а𝚗Ԁ 7-mσ𝚗tҺ-σlԀ sσ𝚗 Bɾσ𝚗zе. TҺе ρаιɾ Һаᴠе bее𝚗 mаɾɾιеԀ sι𝚗cе 2022.

Eаɾlιеɾ tҺιs wееƙ, Pаtɾιcƙ sρσƙе wιtҺ CBS Mσɾ𝚗ι𝚗ɡs аbσut Һιs ɾσlе ι𝚗 Nеtflιx’s Quаɾtеɾbаcƙ а𝚗Ԁ σρе𝚗еԀ uρ аbσut tаƙι𝚗ɡ аԀᴠιcе fɾσm Һιs ρееɾs а𝚗Ԁ аρρlyι𝚗ɡ ιt tσ Һιs σw𝚗 fаmιly.

“I аctuаlly tаlƙеԀ tσ Pеytσ𝚗 [Mа𝚗𝚗ι𝚗ɡ] аbσut ιt fσɾ а wҺιlе,” MаҺσmеs sаιԀ. “WҺаt stucƙ wιtҺ mе ιs Һе sаιԀ, ‘At tҺе е𝚗Ԁ σf my cаɾееɾ, I wιsҺ I wσulԀ Һаᴠе Ԁσ𝚗е ιt sσ my ƙιԀs cσulԀ’ᴠе sее𝚗 wҺаt I wаs Ԁσι𝚗ɡ еᴠеɾy Ԁаy.’”

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“A𝚗Ԁ I wа𝚗t ρаɾе𝚗ts tσ tҺι𝚗ƙ tҺаt, ‘Hеy, tҺаt’s а ɡuy tҺаt I wа𝚗t my ƙιԀ tσ bе lιƙе.’ A𝚗Ԁ sσ, tҺаt’s Һσw I’ll ρlаy tҺе ɡаmе.”

I𝚗 Ju𝚗е, tҺе MаҺσmеs tσσƙ tҺеιɾ fаmιly σf fσuɾ tσ Hаwаιι, wҺеɾе Stеɾlι𝚗ɡ wаs аblе tσ swιm wιtҺ sσmе ԀσlρҺι𝚗s. Bɾιttа𝚗y Ԁσcumе𝚗tеԀ tҺе еxcιtι𝚗ɡ Ԁаy by ρσstι𝚗ɡ ᴠιԀеσs а𝚗Ԁ ρҺσtσs σ𝚗 Һеɾ I𝚗stаɡɾаm. TҺе fιɾst ρҺσtσs а𝚗Ԁ ᴠιԀеσs wеɾе fɾσm а bɾιԀɡе σᴠеɾ tҺе wаtеɾ, wҺеɾе mσtҺеɾ а𝚗Ԁ ԀаuɡҺtеɾ wаtcҺеԀ tҺе ԀσlρҺι𝚗s fɾσm а Ԁιstа𝚗cе.

“WҺаt’s ι𝚗 tҺеɾе, Stеɾlι𝚗ɡ?” Bɾιttа𝚗y аsƙеԀ Һеɾ lιttlе ɡιɾl. “Lιttlе fιsҺеs,” tҺе tσԀԀlеɾ ɾеρlιеԀ, sσσ𝚗 аftеɾ аԀԀι𝚗ɡ, “I sее tҺе ԀσlρҺι𝚗s!”

TҺе mσtҺеɾ-ԀаuɡҺtеɾ mаɾᴠеlеԀ аt tҺе sιɡҺt bеfσɾе ɡеttι𝚗ɡ ɾеаԀy а𝚗Ԁ ɡеttι𝚗ɡ ι𝚗tσ tҺе wаtеɾ tσ tаƙе а clσsеɾ lσσƙ. TҺе ρɾσuԀ mσm sҺаɾеԀ а ρҺσtσ σf tҺеm wσɾƙι𝚗ɡ wιtҺ tҺе tɾаι𝚗еɾ а𝚗Ԁ lаtеɾ, а ρσsеԀ PσlаɾσιԀ wҺеɾе sҺе ҺеlԀ а tе𝚗sе-lσσƙι𝚗ɡ Stеɾlι𝚗ɡ аs tҺе ԀσlρҺι𝚗 cаmе uρ just bеҺι𝚗Ԁ tҺеm а𝚗Ԁ smιlеs.

Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce is widely regarded as one of the toughest and most resilient players in the NFL. Despite standing at just 6’3″ and 295 pounds, Kelce has anchored the Eagles offensive line for over a decade, earning four Pro Bowl selections and playing through countless injuries along the way. However, Kelce’s toughness isn’t just physical – it’s also mental. Throughout his career, Kelce has emphasized the importance of overcoming failure and viewing challenges as opportunities for growth. According to Kelce’s own words and experiences, there are several reasons why bouncing back from setbacks is so crucial.

Growth Mindset

Kelce subscribes to a growth mindset when it comes to facing adversity. A growth mindset understands that abilities and intelligence can be developed through effort, learning from mistakes, and persistence in the face of challenges. Those with a growth mindset don’t see failure as evidence of lack of talent, but rather as a chance to identify weaknesses and improve. In a 2018 interview, Kelce said “If you’re not failing, you’re not growing. You have to fail to get better. You have to try new things, you have to take risks, you have to step out of your comfort zone.”

Kelce’s mindset aligns with research on the differences between a growth versus fixed mindset. A fixed mindset views talent and intelligence as innate traits that can’t be changed. But a growth mindset sees potential and abilities as something that expands through experience and hard work. Numerous studies show that a growth mindset leads to greater achievement because it encourages resilience and perseverance in the face of setbacks. For Kelce, failure isn’t the end – it’s an opportunity to learn what didn’t work and come back stronger. His growth mindset allows him to view challenges as a natural part of the learning process.

Resilience in a Demanding League

Playing in the NFL requires immense physical and mental toughness. The season is a grueling 17-week grind where even the best players experience failure on any given Sunday. With such a small margin for error at the game’s highest level, bouncing back from defeats and personal mistakes is crucial. Kelce understands perhaps better than most the importance of resilience in the NFL. In a 2017 interview, he said “You’re going to fail. You’re going to have bad games, bad plays, bad practices. But it’s how you respond, how you overcome those failures that’s really going to define who you are as a player.”

Kelce has certainly faced his fair share of adversity over his career. He’s played through injuries that would sideline most players, including a torn labrum in 2018 that required surgery after the season. Kelce has also had to overcome personal mistakes, such as costly penalties. His ability to put failures behind him and refocus on the next play or next game has been a hallmark of his career. Kelce’s emphasis on overcoming failure highlights the mental fortitude required to sustain long-term success in the cutthroat NFL. Resilience allows players to bounce back from setbacks and stay motivated throughout the grueling season.

Perspective on the Process

By stressing that failure is a natural part of growth and improvement, Kelce encourages maintaining the right perspective even when things aren’t going well. In a 2020 interview, he said “At the end of the day, it’s all about how you respond. You’re going to have ups, you’re going to have downs. It’s how you handle the adversity.” Kelce’s perspective focuses more on the process of improvement rather than the end result of any single game or play.

This outlook helps players avoid getting discouraged by short-term failures and setbacks. It keeps the long-term goal in mind rather than getting hung up on momentary disappointments. Kelce understands the ebbs and flows of a season – as well as the ups and downs of a career. By emphasizing overcoming failure as an ongoing process, he encourages teammates to stay motivated through challenges and keep working to get better every day. Perspective is crucial, as getting too high or low after each result can be detrimental. Kelce’s message stresses controlling what you can control – your effort, preparation, and ability to learn from mistakes.

Fuel for Future Success

For Kelce, overcoming failure provides fuel and motivation to achieve goals. In a 2021 interview, he said “All the adversity, all the failures, all the tough losses – it’s what drives you. It pushes you to work that much harder and to keep fighting no matter what’s thrown your way.” Struggling through challenges and setbacks can strengthen one’s resolve and competitive fire. It breeds a relentless drive to prove doubters wrong and conquer personal demons. For Kelce, overcoming past failures and adversity has clearly served as a source of motivation throughout his career.

Sports psychology research supports this idea. Facing and overcoming adversity activates the brain’s reward center, releasing feel-good neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. This makes future success more rewarding and reinforces the behaviors that led to it. It also strengthens one’s belief that continued effort can overcome challenges. For Kelce, each time he’s bounced back from injury, mistakes, or losses likely fuels his determination to reach ever-higher heights. His message emphasizes how overcoming failure can be a powerful psychological driver towards achieving goals and sustaining long-term excellence.

Lessons Learned From Kelce

Through his own words and hard-fought career, Jason Kelce provides valuable insight into why overcoming failure is so important. His growth mindset views challenges as opportunities rather than threats. His focus on mental resilience recognizes the importance of persevering through adversity. Kelce maintains the right perspective by emphasizing the long-term process over short-term results. And for him, overcoming past difficulties serves as fuel for continued motivation and future success.

Kelce leads by example on the field, but he also teaches valuable mental lessons through his perspective on challenges. His approach aligns with research on the psychology of achievement. Maintaining a growth mindset, developing grit and perseverance, and finding inspiration from setbacks are all keys to maximizing potential. Though failure is inevitable, the ability to overcome and learn from mistakes separates those who become defined by failures from those who use them as stepping stones. By downplaying the finality of failure, Kelce encourages a focus on improvement that can help athletes sustain excellence over the long haul. His words provide a blueprint for turning adversity into advantage.

When it comes to classic American comfort foods, few dishes are more iconic than the cheesesteak, pizza, wings, burgers, and tacos. These foods have become ingrained in American culture and are loved nationwide for their simplicity, affordability, and deliciousness. In this guide, we will explore the origins and evolution of each dish, highlight some of the best and most famous purveyors across the country, and provide tips for how to enjoy them like a pro. Strap in for an in-depth look at five of America’s most beloved comfort foods.

Cheesesteaks

Let’s start in Philadelphia, the birthplace of the cheesesteak. Originating in the early 20th century, the cheesesteak is a sandwich consisting of thinly sliced steak and melted cheese served on a hoagie roll. While its exact origins are debated, most accounts credit hot dog vendor Pat Olivieri with creating the first cheesesteak in the 1930s at his snack stand in South Philadelphia.

The classic Philly cheesesteak uses just a few simple ingredients – thinly sliced ribeye steak, Cheez Whiz (yes, really), and an Amoroso’s hoagie roll. Variations now include different types of cheese like American, provolone, or whiz. The steak is sautéed with onions and seasoned with salt, pepper, and sometimes garlic. It’s then piled high onto the hoagie roll and served hot and messy.

Of course, no discussion of cheesesteaks is complete without mentioning Philly’s most famous purveyors. Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks sit directly across the street from each other in South Philly and have been embroiled in a friendly rivalry for decades. Both claim to have invented the cheesesteak and both are worth visiting just for the experience. Another top choice is Jim’s Steaks, which has several locations around the city serving cheesesteaks with thin-sliced ribeye. No matter where you get one, be sure to order it “wit” or “witout” onions based on your preference. And don’t forget the cheese – whiz is classic but provolone is also delicious. Wash it all down with an ice cold beer for maximum enjoyment.

Pizza

Next up is America’s favorite food – pizza. While pizza traces its origins back to ancient times in Italy, it was immigrant entrepreneurs in New York City who helped popularize it in the United States in the late 19th/early 20th centuries. Some of the first pizzerias opened in Manhattan’s Little Italy neighborhood, owned by Italian Americans like Gennaro Lombardi who opened the famous Pizza Gennaro in 1905.

New York-style pizza is still considered the gold standard by many. It’s characterized by a thin, crisp crust that’s slightly charred on the bottom and edges. Popular toppings include fresh mozzarella, tomato sauce, and basil. Some iconic NYC pizzerias include John’s of Bleecker Street and Lombardi’s in Manhattan, which both claim to have served the first pies in the city. In Brooklyn, go to Di Fara Pizza for crazy-good slices or get a whole pie from Grimaldi’s or L&B Spumoni Gardens.

Chicago also developed its own unique deep-dish style in the 1920s. Dense, thick-crusted pies are loaded with cheese then topped with extra sauce. Famous spots like Pizzeria Uno, Gino’s East, and Lou Malnati’s offer delicious takes on the Chicago pie. And of course, pizza has since spread across the entire country, with regional variations like California-style (thin crust with gourmet toppings) and Detroit-style (square pan pies with caramelized cheese edges). Wherever you get your slice, pizza is an American classic.

Wings

Moving right along to one of America’s favorite bar foods and game day snacks – chicken wings. While their exact origins are unclear, Buffalo, New York is universally recognized as the birthplace of chicken wings as we know them today. The story goes that in 1964, Teressa Bellissimo of the Anchor Bar deep fried chicken wings and tossed them in her homemade hot sauce for her son and his friends as a late night snack. The rest is history.

Traditional Buffalo wings are always deep fried then tossed in a cayenne pepper-vinegar sauce. The heat can vary significantly from mild to nuclear. Blue cheese dressing is typically served alongside for cooling down spicy mouths. Some of Buffalo’s most famous wing purveyors include Duff’s Famous Wings, Bar-Bill Tavern, and the Anchor Bar itself.

From their humble beginnings in Buffalo, wings have since exploded in popularity nationwide. Many cities and regions now have their own signature wing sauces beyond Buffalo-style too. In Kansas City, wings are tossed in sweet and smoky sauces. Nashville hot chicken wings pack serious heat. And Asian-style wings topped with teriyaki or Korean BBQ sauces have also become hugely popular. However you prefer them – naked, breaded, or boneless – wings are a staple of American tailgates, sports bars, and backyard parties everywhere.

Burgers

No list of classic American comfort foods would be complete without the burger. While debates rage on about who invented the hamburger, most historians trace the sandwich’s origins to late 19th century Hamburg, Germany where immigrant cooks brought the concept of a cooked ground beef patty between two slices of bread to America. From there, burgers exploded in popularity in the early 20th century as affordable, portable fast food.

Today, burgers have evolved into true American culinary art. The all-beef patty is topped with countless combinations of cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, special sauces, and more. Regional burger styles abound as well – from New England’s well-dressed burgers slathered in condiments to West Coast’s California burger topped with avocado.

Some of the most famous burger joints across the country include In-N-Out on the West Coast known for its “animal style” burgers, Shake Shack which started as a NYC hot dog cart and now has a cult following, and the original Five Guys locations in the Washington, D.C. area which serve burgers packed with fresh toppings. Of course, hometown burger spots are treasured in communities everywhere. As long as it’s made with care, quality ingredients, and piled high, the burger is truly one of America’s most beloved foods.

Tacos

Last but not least, let’s talk tacos – another globally popular food with roots deeply ingrained in American culture, especially in the Southwest. While tacos originated in Mexico, immigrant communities helped establish them as a staple food in California, Texas, and beyond.

Traditional tacos are made with soft corn or flour tortillas wrapped around fillings like shredded beef or chicken, cheese, cilantro, onion, and salsa. Hard shell tacos topped with ground beef and cheese became popular in Americanized versions as well. Of course, tacos are one of the most customizable foods – you can fill them with anything from carnitas and fish to veggies and Korean BBQ.

Must-visit taco destinations include Los Angeles (check out places like Guerrilla Tacos and HomeState for gourmet, fusion styles), San Diego (try fish tacos along the coast or Birrieria Tijuana for goat birria), Austin (Tacodeli and Valentina’s Tex-Mex BBQ are local favorites), and Al Pastor Papi in NYC which pays homage to the pork taco’s origins. Wherever you find tacos, their simplicity and versatility have made them a truly beloved American food.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, cheesesteaks, pizza, wings, burgers, and tacos represent quintessential American comfort foods that have become ingrained in our culture. From food carts and hole-in-the-wall joints to national fast food chains, these dishes are beloved for their affordability, portability, and deliciousness. Regional variations have developed across the country as immigrant communities introduced and adapted recipes to local tastes.

Whether you’re looking for a quick, cheap meal or celebrating with friends and family, these foods will always hit the spot. And while debates may rage on about the “best” versions, the beauty of these classics lies in their customizability. So enjoy them however you like – with or without onions, spicy or mild, dressed to the nines or naked – and raise a glass to the iconic American comfort foods that bring us all together. Dig in!

When most people think of NFL superstars, flashy fashion and expensive designer labels likely come to mind. High-profile athletes in recent years have embraced their public platform to showcase increasingly bold and trendy looks. However, one Philadelphia Eagles legend has gone in the completely opposite direction – and in doing so, may have started an anti-fashion revolution of his own.

Center Jason Kelce has become famous for eschewing style in favor of comfort, arriving at games dressed about as casually as possible. While early in his career he may have dressed like a typical athlete, Kelce has now firmly established his signature “who cares” look of flip-flops, sweatpants, and a t-shirt. More than just a disinterest in fashion, Kelce’s style actually sends a message – that true confidence comes from within rather than outward appearances. Through committing fully to comfortable anti-fashion, he has ironically become a style icon for some.

Early Career Style Unknown

Unfortunately, not much is documented about Kelce’s fashion choices from the beginning of his NFL career with the Eagles in 2011. As an undrafted rookie out of Cincinnati, he likely dressed like most young athletes just trying to make the roster – clean cut in polos, jeans, sneakers. Nothing too flashy, but nothing too sloppy either as he worked to impress coaches. Through those first few years establishing himself as the team’s starting center, Kelce’s style was probably average and inoffensive.

With his playing career taking off by 2014 after a Pro Bowl season, Kelce may have started experimenting with trendier looks off the field. Many athletes at that stage of success begin to embrace their public platform and flaunt their wealth and status through expensive designer clothes, accessories, and luxury cars. It’s possible Kelce dabbled in some of those typical athlete fashion tropes as his profile and bank account grew.

The Flip-Flop Era Begins

However, somewhere along the line, Kelce seemed to have an anti-fashion awakening. By the 2015 season, he began showing up to Lincoln Financial Field clad in the now-legendary combo of flip-flops, sweatpants, and a t-shirt. Gone were any traces of trying to look stylish – Kelce was fully committing to the most casual, comfortable look possible. And while some may have questioned his sartorial choices at first, Kelce didn’t seem to care one bit what others thought.

In fact, the more his laissez-faire style was pointed out in the media, the more Kelce doubled down. He made it clear in interviews that Sundays were about football, not fashion shows. Comfort over trends was his motto. And as the Eagles continued their rise, winning the Super Bowl in 2017, Kelce’s flip-flop fits only gained more attention and fans.

Some may have viewed his style regression as a sign Kelce didn’t care about his image anymore after achieving success. But it was really the opposite – by fully committing to comfort, he was expressing true confidence in who he was beyond superficial appearances. Kelce was redefining what it meant to be stylish by prioritizing self-assurance over following trends.

Anti-Fashion Icon Status

Ironically, Kelce’s anti-fashion stance is what has made him a style icon for some. He is defying expectations of how athletes should dress and representing a brand of casual confidence through his signature fits. No longer concerned with looking cool or keeping up with the Joneses, Kelce seems completely at ease in his own skin no matter what he wears to games. And that authenticity is inspiring fans who also prefer comfort over high maintenance looks.

By consistently showing up in flip-flops and sweats since 2015, Kelce has single-handedly made that combo a fashionable athletic uniform. Players on other teams have even started copying his chill pre-game outfits as a sign of respect. Kelce seems bemused by his influence but doesn’t plan on changing his ways. He knows who he is and what he’s about – representing Philly with elite play, not photo shoots.

In a world where so many athletes and celebrities flaunt wealth and status, Kelce’s anti-materialistic style is a refreshing change of pace. He proves you don’t need flashy clothes or the latest trends to feel confident and comfortable in your own skin. While some may see his look as a regression from clean cut early career styles, Kelce has found his unique anti-fashion groove. And in redefining what it means to be stylish, he’s inspired countless fans to embrace their own definition of cool too.

Legacy of Relaxed Revolution

Nearly a decade into his NFL career, Kelce remains the picture of relaxed revolution as he continues dominating between the lines for the Eagles. Now 34, he’s taken his signature pre-game fits to new levels of comfort, showing up in Crocs and graphic tees that would make any streetwear fan proud. Kelce seems to get an even bigger kick out of his anti-fashion influence now, finding the whole situation amusing but sticking to his guns.

As more high-profile athletes showcase over-the-top outfits and materialism, Kelce stands out as a beacon of anti-consumerism. He proves you don’t need a closet full of designer clothes or flashy cars to feel good about yourself. True style comes from the inside, not what you wear on the outside. And while some may have expected him to grow out of his flip-flop phase, Kelce seems more committed than ever to keeping things casual.

Through a decade of consistent comfort, Kelce has solidified flip-flops and sweats as a bonafide athletic uniform. He started an anti-fashion revolution by embracing his disinterest in trends and redefining what it means to be stylish. While other stars flaunt wealth, Kelce shows confidence through comfort. His legacy will live on as an inspiration for those who prefer authenticity over materialism both on and off the field. In paving his own unique path, Jason Kelce has cemented himself as an unlikely style icon for the anti-fashion movement.

A four-year, $135 million deal agreement between the Boston Celtics and player Jrue Holiday has been agreed upon, according to league sources on Wednesday. ESPN broke the news of the agreement first.

Holiday was a part of the Portland Trail Blazers’ deal with the Boston Celtics during the previous summer, where he was moved in exchange for two first-round selections, Malcolm Brogdon, and Robert Williams.

Prior to that, Holiday was acquired by the Blazers in a three-team trade that resulted in the Milwaukee Bucks receiving Damian Lillard.

Holiday, 33, is a three-time member of the NBA All-Defensive First Team and a two-time NBA All-Star. With the Bucks, he took home an NBA title in 2021. Holiday is averaging 12.5 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game in the 2023–24 campaign.

What this implies for the Celtics and HolidayOnce more, the Celtics were successful in getting a significant offseason addition to accept a wage reduction on an agreement.

After being traded to Boston in the summer, Kristaps Porziņģis accepted to a two-year, $60 million agreement. Now, Holiday will take a significant discount by declining his $37.4 million player option to begin an extension that will start at roughly $30 million annually.

With a player option remaining in place in case the next TV agreement raises compensation, Holiday will have security into his late 30s.

Holiday took over as the team’s defensive captain as soon as he arrived in Boston, thanks to his adaptability and duty managing the team’s coverages, which have enabled Boston to have the second-best defensive rating in the league.

Even in a smaller role than in his Milwaukee days, he has been among the NBA’s greatest 3-point shooters this season and has been able to cover every offensive function.

With this addon enabled, Derrick White comes into focus. Holiday’s backcourt companion, who has had a huge breakout season, declined to sign an extension before to this one.

White is owed a significant boost when he can enter the market in 2025 at the age of 30, as he will only be making $18.8 million when he reaches the last year of his contract next season.

With Jayson Tatum probably agreeing to a supermax extension this offseason and Jaylen Brown’s supermax coming into play, the salary cap’s second apron will make it harder to find money to pay White.

But Boston can keep its depth in the immediate future as it goes all-in for a title because Payton Pritchard and Sam Hauser have cheap deals. — Staff writer for the Celtics Jared Weiss

After 11 seasons in the NFL as one of the best centers in the league, Jason Kelce announced his retirement from professional football in October 2022. While his playing career has come to an end, Kelce’s competitive fire and passion for the game is far from extinguished. Though no longer suiting up on Sundays, Kelce has found other outlets to channel his energy and enthusiasm.

Kelce spent his entire career with the Philadelphia Eagles after being drafted by them in the 6th round of the 2011 NFL Draft out of Cincinnati. He quickly became a mainstay on the Eagles offensive line and was named to the Pro Bowl four times from 2014-2017. Kelce was a key leader of the Eagles team that won Super Bowl LII in 2018, their first championship in franchise history. His gutsy performance through injury in that playoff run helped cement his legacy as one of the greatest centers to ever play.

At 34 years old, Kelce felt it was time to step away from the physical grind of the NFL. But those who know Kelce best say retirement will not diminish his competitive fire or love for the game. Eagles teammates past and present expect Kelce to find new outlets for that passion as he embarks on his post-playing career.

“I don’t think the competitive fire will ever go out for Jason,” said former Eagles linebacker Connor Barwin. “He’s one of the most intense, driven guys I’ve ever been around. He may not be lining up against defenders anymore but I’m sure he’ll find new challenges to take on.”

One of the first indications that Kelce’s competitive spirit was still burning came just a few weeks after his retirement announcement. At his retirement press conference, Kelce teased that he had something special planned to celebrate his NFL career coming to an end.

On November 28th, Kelce delivered on that tease in spectacular fashion. During the Eagles’ Monday Night Football game against the Washington Commanders, Kelce emerged onto the field during halftime. Wearing his full Eagles uniform minus the helmet, Kelce climbed up on a staging area that had been set up near the 50 yard line.

To the roar of the Philadelphia crowd of over 69,000, Kelce did a running start and launched himself through a flaming table that had been set up, shattering it on impact in an iconic pro wrestling-style stunt. The Philadelphia Fire Department was on standby to ensure safety protocols were followed for the controlled burn.

“I wanted to do something to really commemorate the end of my playing career and give the fans one last memorable moment,” Kelce said afterward. “What better way to do it than by jumping through a flaming table? I’m still competitive and still love a challenge. Even in retirement I wanted to go out with some fire, literally!”

The viral video of Kelce’s flaming table jump spread quickly on social media and was replayed on sports highlight shows for days. It was the perfect encapsulation of Kelce’s brash, in-your-face style and burning competitive desire that endeared him to Eagles fans over the past decade. While his playing days were finished, the stunt showed Kelce’s competitive fire was still raging strong.

In addition to the occasional showstopping stunt, Kelce has also found an outlet for his football passion through his “New Heights” podcast. Launched in 2021 along with his brother and former NFL tight end Travis Kelce, the podcast gives the brothers a forum to breakdown the game they love.

Every week during the season, Jason and Travis dive deep into the X’s and O’s of the NFL, reviewing games and schemes. They welcome current and former players and coaches as guests to discuss everything from individual matchups to team strategies. The brothers’ infectious enthusiasm for the sport is on full display in each episode.

“I think doing the podcast really scratches that itch to still be deeply involved in the game even after retiring as a player,” Kelce said. “Travis and I just love talking ball and learning more about how teams and players operate. It’s been so cool to talk to some of the best in the business on our show.”

Kelce’s co-host and brother Travis sees the podcast as the perfect outlet for Jason to channel his football passion. “He may not be out there doing it anymore but you can tell Jason is still obsessed with the X’s and O’s,” Travis Kelce said. “The podcast lets him dive into that strategic side of the game that he really loves. He’s still super competitive too so I’m sure he gets a kick out of debating me on our takes each week!”

In addition to the podcast, Kelce has also dipped his toes in broadcasting. He served as a guest analyst for NBC during their wild card playoff coverage in January. Being back in the press box and film room analyzing games from a different perspective seemed to energize Kelce.

“I really enjoyed getting to break down plays and schemes with the NBC crew,” Kelce said. “It scratched that itch to still be involved in the strategic side of things. Broadcasting is something that really intrigues me. I love football and love talking about it, so who knows, maybe I’ll end up in that chair permanently down the line.”

While his playing days in the NFL may be behind him, it’s clear Jason Kelce’s competitive fire and passion for football burn as intensely as ever. Through stunts, podcasts and potential broadcasting opportunities, Kelce has found engaging new outlets to channel that energy even in retirement.

Eagles fans can take solace knowing the warrior spirit and enthusiasm that defined Kelce’s Hall of Fame career on the field will live on as he embarks on his post-playing journey. Though no longer suiting up on Sundays, Kelce’s competitive fire continues to blaze brightly in new and creative ways. His legacy as one of the fiercest competitors in Eagles history is secure – and so is his love for the game that fueled his incredible career.

Receiving a shirt of gratitude from the Los Angeles Lakers, Pau Gasol choked up talking about Kobe Bryant

Pau Gasol’s thoughts on the day he received special gratitude from the Los Angeles Lakers turned entirely to his late teammate and brother – Kobe Bryant.
On the evening of March 7, the Los Angeles Lakers had a special act of gratitude for legendary Pau Gasol.

The number 16 shirt of the former Spanish superstar was permanently retired by the team that won the NBA championship 17 times, showing respect and gratitude for Pau’s contributions during his time with the Lakers.

Besides his own special feelings, Pau Gasol turned his attention to a late teammate, friend and brother – Kobe Bryant.

Pau Gasol could not hold back his emotions when mentioning Kobe Bryant, his teammate for more than 6 years with the Los Angeles Lakers.

“I know this is a special occasion, however I don’t want people to pay too much attention to myself because without another special person, I wouldn’t be where I am today. That is Kobe Bryant,” Pau Gasol replied to ESPN.

“It can be said that Kobe and I were inseparable, throughout our many years of playing and when we both retired. It was also his great credit to have my shirt number hung up. I think without Kobe, there wouldn’t be a Pau Gasol like today.

At that time, Kobe motivated me and the whole team. The way he leads everyone, directly instructs and makes the whole team play better and with more fire. His influence is too great.”

Pau Gasol’s number 16 shirt is placed next to Kobe Bryant’s number 24 shirt

“I’m very sad that he’s not here with us because I know for sure that if nothing unlucky happens, Kobe will definitely be here,” the Los Angeles Lakers legend added about Kobe Bryant.

Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol were teammates for 6 years, going to 3 consecutive NBA Finals series together. Two of them brought the 15th and 16th Larry O’Brien Gold Cups to the Los Angeles Lakers.

Pau’s number 16 shirt was hung from the ceiling of Crypto.com Arena this morning. Coincidentally, it is located right next to Kobe’s numbers 8 and 24.

“There are a lot of legends up there so the feeling of hanging up the shirt is extremely special. But when I saw my shirt number next to Kobe’s, everything became more emotional,” Pau Gasol concluded.

Kobe Bryant unfortunately passed away with his daughter in a helicopter crash in January 2020. At that time, father and daughter were on their way from their home to the Mamba Sports Academy training facility.

After Kobe and Gigi passed away, Pau Gasol and his family continuously stood by the Bryant family, providing emotional support for Kobe’s wife, Vanessa Bryant, and three children including Natalia, Bianca and Capri.

Travis Kelce’s niece has emerged as a dedicated Swiftie, showing unwavering support for the budding romance between her uncle and the iconic musician, Taylor Swift. In a heartwarming TikTok video shared by Jason Kelce’s wife, Kylie, on Monday, their four-year-old daughter, Wyatt, was captured immersing herself in her dad’s team, the Philadelphia Eagles, as they played against the Los Angeles Rams.

The adorable clip showcased Wyatt’s curiosity as she repeatedly pointed to the screen, asking, “Who’s that?” Kylie, in turn, patiently responded, providing insights into the roles of the players and the dynamics of the game. The lighthearted caption accompanying the video humorously pondered whether Wyatt was genuinely attempting to learn football or simply trying to evade a nap, reflecting the playful atmosphere within the Kelce household.

However, the significance of Wyatt’s fascination with football goes beyond mere curiosity, as it coincides with the widespread attention garnered by the romance between Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce.

The affectionate portmanteau “Traylor” has gained traction among fans, signifying the growing support for the couple’s relationship. Swift’s devoted fanbase, known as “Swifties,” has exhibited a newfound interest in the NFL, with many immersing themselves in the sport to support Kelce and his team.

Swift’s presence at Kelce’s football games, amidst her hiatus from her record-breaking Eras Tour, has further fueled interest in the relationship, drawing a significant female viewership to NFL broadcasts. This intersection of pop culture and sports has captivated audiences, sparking discussions and debates across social media platforms.

For Wyatt, the connection between her uncle and her favorite musician has undoubtedly contributed to her burgeoning interest in football. The unfolding romance between Kelce and Swift has added an extra layer of excitement to her involvement in the sport, aligning her passions for music and athletics in a unique and endearing way.

As the relationship between Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift continues to evolve, it’s clear that their influence extends beyond the realm of celebrity gossip, touching the lives of fans young and old alike.

Wyatt’s adorable enthusiasm serves as a testament to the power of love and fandom, transcending boundaries and bringing joy to those who follow their journey. In a world filled with uncertainty, their story offers a glimmer of hope and happiness, reminding us of the magic that can be found in unexpected connections and shared passions.