Chris Rifer
@chrisrifer.bsky.social
Once again retired co-host of Soccer Made in Portland. Author of The Morrison Report. I still like Bruce Springsteen, but now on a new app.
In fairness I don’t know why you’d want to hire a coach who’s earned 1.74 PPG over 215 all-comps games with one major and two minor trophies during his time in MLS when you can retain one who’s earned 1.34 PPG over 171 games and has arguably won one playoff game. #RCTID
We have basically zero evidence that firing Neville is even on Grabavoy's mind. Based on all the public comments both during and after last season, Ned has hitched his wagon to Phil. Best odds are that he finishes out his contract this year - whatever that portends for Portland's 2026 season. #RCTID
January 6, 2026 at 6:24 AM
In fairness I don’t know why you’d want to hire a coach who’s earned 1.74 PPG over 215 all-comps games with one major and two minor trophies during his time in MLS when you can retain one who’s earned 1.34 PPG over 171 games and has arguably won one playoff game. #RCTID
I’m absolutely begging the Timbers to make this call. I’m begging in vain, mind you. But begging nonetheless. #RCTID
BREAKING: Celtic has sacked Wilfried Nancy after about a month in charge.
January 5, 2026 at 3:20 PM
I’m absolutely begging the Timbers to make this call. I’m begging in vain, mind you. But begging nonetheless. #RCTID
I’m late on this, but Ken Burns’ documentary on the American Revolution is so spectacular. The Revolutionary War was, in many ways, so much messier than we learn. And yet, from that messiness came a political miracle that delivered liberty to some—and laid the foundation to deliver it to many more.
December 29, 2025 at 6:05 AM
I’m late on this, but Ken Burns’ documentary on the American Revolution is so spectacular. The Revolutionary War was, in many ways, so much messier than we learn. And yet, from that messiness came a political miracle that delivered liberty to some—and laid the foundation to deliver it to many more.
This is like if you asked AI to create the perfect metaphor for 2025.
another robot highlight for 2025: man wearing humanoid mocap suit kicks himself in the balls
December 27, 2025 at 10:18 PM
This is like if you asked AI to create the perfect metaphor for 2025.
Not sure James Madison would’ve even made the Founding Fathers Playoffs.
December 21, 2025 at 12:12 AM
Not sure James Madison would’ve even made the Founding Fathers Playoffs.
Don’t play with me, @thornsfc.com. If you’re gonna post that on IG you gotta deliver. #BAONPDX
December 15, 2025 at 7:51 PM
Don’t play with me, @thornsfc.com. If you’re gonna post that on IG you gotta deliver. #BAONPDX
This is specific to the film industry, but it’s descriptive of the entire consumer experience cycle right now.
1. Find a Good Thing;
2. The Good Thing gets popular and big;
3. The Good Thing gets less good;
4. We have to decide whether to acquiesce in the Less Good Thing or try to go back to 1.
1. Find a Good Thing;
2. The Good Thing gets popular and big;
3. The Good Thing gets less good;
4. We have to decide whether to acquiesce in the Less Good Thing or try to go back to 1.
"We live in hell, and the rapacious need for growth in every industry, unrelenting, forever and ever, is decimating all of our institutions and our way of life."
Amanda Dobbins, on fire
Amanda Dobbins, on fire
December 10, 2025 at 11:44 PM
This is specific to the film industry, but it’s descriptive of the entire consumer experience cycle right now.
1. Find a Good Thing;
2. The Good Thing gets popular and big;
3. The Good Thing gets less good;
4. We have to decide whether to acquiesce in the Less Good Thing or try to go back to 1.
1. Find a Good Thing;
2. The Good Thing gets popular and big;
3. The Good Thing gets less good;
4. We have to decide whether to acquiesce in the Less Good Thing or try to go back to 1.
If they’re doing it regardless of weather it’s not a player welfare measure. FIFA’s latest cash grab is to add a planned commercial break to World Cup games.
News: Every 2026 World Cup match will feature two "hydration breaks," no matter the weather.
Each half will pause for exactly three minutes midway through.
It's a player welfare measure. It also has sporting & commercial implications.
More @theathleticfc.bsky.social:
Each half will pause for exactly three minutes midway through.
It's a player welfare measure. It also has sporting & commercial implications.
More @theathleticfc.bsky.social:
2026 World Cup to feature three-minute hydration breaks in every half throughout tournament
Every game will pause for three minutes in the middle of each half, which will essentially split the match into quarters.
www.nytimes.com
December 8, 2025 at 2:57 PM
If they’re doing it regardless of weather it’s not a player welfare measure. FIFA’s latest cash grab is to add a planned commercial break to World Cup games.
The thing that makes this even better is that there is a sizable number of his supporters who grow enraged at the idea of nine year olds being given participation trophies for rec soccer.
December 5, 2025 at 8:53 PM
The thing that makes this even better is that there is a sizable number of his supporters who grow enraged at the idea of nine year olds being given participation trophies for rec soccer.
My survey response: The driving editorial force in the Apple TV coverage seems to be fear of receiving angry emails from club owners and executives. So the commentary takes on a Lake Woebegone-like dynamic where all the teams are above average. As a result, it’s boring.
We asked, you answered.
Our 2025 MLS fan survey results are out, with responses from nearly 3,500 fans voicing their opinion on the state of the league, roster rules, the calendar shift, and more.
Read here ⤵️
Our 2025 MLS fan survey results are out, with responses from nearly 3,500 fans voicing their opinion on the state of the league, roster rules, the calendar shift, and more.
Read here ⤵️
MLS Fan Survey: Supporters weigh in on calendar switch, roster rules, and Lionel Messi
Nearly 3,500 fans from 33 countries gave their opinions on the state of Major League Soccer in our third annual fan survey
www.sixonefivesoccer.com
December 4, 2025 at 5:04 PM
My survey response: The driving editorial force in the Apple TV coverage seems to be fear of receiving angry emails from club owners and executives. So the commentary takes on a Lake Woebegone-like dynamic where all the teams are above average. As a result, it’s boring.
This is genuinely incredible comedy.
Trump dozes while Marco Rubio speaks to him directly next to him. Just insane optics.
December 2, 2025 at 7:08 PM
This is genuinely incredible comedy.
Anyway, the story of Thanksgiving is about how the people who were here before welcomed and shared a meal of plenty with refugee immigrants.
November 28, 2025 at 2:35 PM
Anyway, the story of Thanksgiving is about how the people who were here before welcomed and shared a meal of plenty with refugee immigrants.
I’m skeptical there will be much of a transfer fee coming for Mora. He may move, but it won’t be lucrative.
And tho clearing that cap space isn’t nothing, there’s also risk. It’s possible the worm’s turned for Pipe, but nobody else (healthy) on the roster has close to his goalscoring record. #RCTID
And tho clearing that cap space isn’t nothing, there’s also risk. It’s possible the worm’s turned for Pipe, but nobody else (healthy) on the roster has close to his goalscoring record. #RCTID
One big "if" not mentioned in the article (understandably so) is Mora has been heavily linked to a sale back to Chile. Would be a smart move to get a transfer fee by picking up the option + opening some serious cap space
November 25, 2025 at 3:36 PM
I’m skeptical there will be much of a transfer fee coming for Mora. He may move, but it won’t be lucrative.
And tho clearing that cap space isn’t nothing, there’s also risk. It’s possible the worm’s turned for Pipe, but nobody else (healthy) on the roster has close to his goalscoring record. #RCTID
And tho clearing that cap space isn’t nothing, there’s also risk. It’s possible the worm’s turned for Pipe, but nobody else (healthy) on the roster has close to his goalscoring record. #RCTID
Matt’s point about the Timbers having largely shot their transfer market shot in the summer is well-taken. There will be some movement this winter, but without buyouts (PTFC’s historical willingness there has been spotty) we’re not going to be looking at a major revamp. #RCTID
Free Newsletter: The offseason guides continue...
In here we have a look at a Dallas side that needs a TARDIS and a Portland side that I'm having a tough time feeling positive about (not enough POWER).
open.substack.com/pub/tacticsf...
In here we have a look at a Dallas side that needs a TARDIS and a Portland side that I'm having a tough time feeling positive about (not enough POWER).
open.substack.com/pub/tacticsf...
Offseason Guides: Timbers and FC Dallas get some clarity – and a reality check
An undeniable step forward followed by an undeniable lesson about the gap
open.substack.com
November 25, 2025 at 3:30 PM
Matt’s point about the Timbers having largely shot their transfer market shot in the summer is well-taken. There will be some movement this winter, but without buyouts (PTFC’s historical willingness there has been spotty) we’re not going to be looking at a major revamp. #RCTID
No, and it’s so weird. This should be one of the bigger stories league-wide this offseason and literally nobody is talking about it. If a recent, in-prime NBA, NFL, or even MLS MVP had the ability to hit free agency in an offseason there would be major coverage for months leading up to it. #BAONPDX
@chrisrifer.bsky.social I might be really late to the party on this one but have we heard anything about a Sophia Wilson contract extension/renewal? #BAONPDX
November 21, 2025 at 3:55 PM
No, and it’s so weird. This should be one of the bigger stories league-wide this offseason and literally nobody is talking about it. If a recent, in-prime NBA, NFL, or even MLS MVP had the ability to hit free agency in an offseason there would be major coverage for months leading up to it. #BAONPDX
Every time I see another American soccer plan to make soccer the most popular, participatory, etc. sport in the US or a new plan for MLS to double its fanbase, or whatever the cause du jour may be I can’t help but think of the exchange between Pinky and the Brain that opened every episode.
November 20, 2025 at 8:52 PM
Every time I see another American soccer plan to make soccer the most popular, participatory, etc. sport in the US or a new plan for MLS to double its fanbase, or whatever the cause du jour may be I can’t help but think of the exchange between Pinky and the Brain that opened every episode.
Is there anything less effective than an MLS club or league investigation?
Here we have multiple instances of the most cartoonish, gutter racism and misogyny—*one instance of which was caught on a broadcast microphone*—and the product of the investigation is still 🙊🙈🙉.
Here we have multiple instances of the most cartoonish, gutter racism and misogyny—*one instance of which was caught on a broadcast microphone*—and the product of the investigation is still 🙊🙈🙉.
NEW: Ernst Tanner has built a powerhouse at the Philadelphia Union.
But my @us.theguardian.com investigation has shown wide-ranging allegations of misbehavior throughout his 7-year tenure.
Tanner denies the allegations, and was investigated by MLS this year.
www.theguardian.com/football/202...
But my @us.theguardian.com investigation has shown wide-ranging allegations of misbehavior throughout his 7-year tenure.
Tanner denies the allegations, and was investigated by MLS this year.
www.theguardian.com/football/202...
MLS executive who built a powerhouse faced allegations of sexist, racist and homophobic behavior
Philadelphia Union sporting director Ernst Tanner denies the allegations, which prompted a recently-concluded MLS investigation that could not corroborate them
www.theguardian.com
November 18, 2025 at 9:36 PM
Is there anything less effective than an MLS club or league investigation?
Here we have multiple instances of the most cartoonish, gutter racism and misogyny—*one instance of which was caught on a broadcast microphone*—and the product of the investigation is still 🙊🙈🙉.
Here we have multiple instances of the most cartoonish, gutter racism and misogyny—*one instance of which was caught on a broadcast microphone*—and the product of the investigation is still 🙊🙈🙉.
Thorns: Nobody believes in us!
CBS Sideline Reporter’s question to Adrian Gonzalez: “The only thing consistent about the Thorns is inconsistency…”
Usually the “us against everybody” narrative is overblown, but in this case… #BAONPDX
CBS Sideline Reporter’s question to Adrian Gonzalez: “The only thing consistent about the Thorns is inconsistency…”
Usually the “us against everybody” narrative is overblown, but in this case… #BAONPDX
November 15, 2025 at 5:13 PM
Thorns: Nobody believes in us!
CBS Sideline Reporter’s question to Adrian Gonzalez: “The only thing consistent about the Thorns is inconsistency…”
Usually the “us against everybody” narrative is overblown, but in this case… #BAONPDX
CBS Sideline Reporter’s question to Adrian Gonzalez: “The only thing consistent about the Thorns is inconsistency…”
Usually the “us against everybody” narrative is overblown, but in this case… #BAONPDX
The more straightforward story is that the Timbers schedule was softer in the first half (1.26 PPG opp avg) than in the second (1.45 PPG opp avg), and that they did well against bad teams (1.9 PPG v opps <1.2 PPG) and horrifically against playoff-caliber teams (0.69 PPG v opps >1.5 PPG). #RCTID
Phil Neville describes 2026 as "two seasons":
- Up until the Leagues Cup, when squad was healthy and consistent
- After Leagues Cup, when team lost consistency
Says that it was his job to help the team find consistency, and he failed at that this year. #RCTID
- Up until the Leagues Cup, when squad was healthy and consistent
- After Leagues Cup, when team lost consistency
Says that it was his job to help the team find consistency, and he failed at that this year. #RCTID
November 14, 2025 at 12:40 AM
The more straightforward story is that the Timbers schedule was softer in the first half (1.26 PPG opp avg) than in the second (1.45 PPG opp avg), and that they did well against bad teams (1.9 PPG v opps <1.2 PPG) and horrifically against playoff-caliber teams (0.69 PPG v opps >1.5 PPG). #RCTID
Look, when something hasn’t really worked five times the obvious thing to do is try a sixth. #RCTID
Ned, on Phil Neville as HC: "No doubt in my mind bout Phil." Says that "he's our guy" for next season, and also that he is "as bullish as he has been" about the roster going into 2026 #RCTID
November 13, 2025 at 7:26 PM
Look, when something hasn’t really worked five times the obvious thing to do is try a sixth. #RCTID
The Thorns have flown under the radar with national media this year. In what was supposed to be a step-back year with a barrage of major injuries piled on top, they finished third and are now in the semis.
One nomination is a bit light. Coffey a big miss. Rob Gale is aggrieved here, too. #BAONPDX
One nomination is a bit light. Coffey a big miss. Rob Gale is aggrieved here, too. #BAONPDX
#NWSL awards season shenanigans is an annual tradition, and the Midfielder of the Year shortlist having NEITHER Taylor Flint NOR Sam Coffey is egregious, baffling stuff.
November 10, 2025 at 3:54 PM
The Thorns have flown under the radar with national media this year. In what was supposed to be a step-back year with a barrage of major injuries piled on top, they finished third and are now in the semis.
One nomination is a bit light. Coffey a big miss. Rob Gale is aggrieved here, too. #BAONPDX
One nomination is a bit light. Coffey a big miss. Rob Gale is aggrieved here, too. #BAONPDX
The worst thing about this is that is would be in-character for Timbers leadership to use the four playoff games as a fig leaf to avoid having to make hard changes in the offseason.
On balance, 1.29 PPG in the regular season and 1.0 PPG in the postseason is mediocre at best. #RCTID
On balance, 1.29 PPG in the regular season and 1.0 PPG in the postseason is mediocre at best. #RCTID
November 10, 2025 at 3:29 AM
The worst thing about this is that is would be in-character for Timbers leadership to use the four playoff games as a fig leaf to avoid having to make hard changes in the offseason.
On balance, 1.29 PPG in the regular season and 1.0 PPG in the postseason is mediocre at best. #RCTID
On balance, 1.29 PPG in the regular season and 1.0 PPG in the postseason is mediocre at best. #RCTID