The Football Power Rankings: "Sligo have to be punished" | Kerry hold firm in the number one spot
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The Off the Ball GAA Football Power Rankings episode for April 14, 2026, kicks off with a fiery debate between hosts Tommy Rooney and Matthew Brennan over the latest rankings, particularly focusing on Leitrim’s historic win over Sligo and the controversial drop of Sligo to 22nd place. The episode dives into the emotional and strategic implications of Leitrim’s first provincial win over Sligo in 15 years, highlighting standout performances from Barry McNulty and the managerial shift under Stephen Poacher. The hosts also scrutinize the rankings’ methodology, with Tommy defending a conservative approach that prioritizes championship form over league results, while Matthew pushes back on rewarding potential over performance. Key discussions include the struggles of Tyrone, the rise of Wicklow, and the tactical evolution of Mayo under Andy Moran, particularly their increased reliance on two-pointers. The episode closes with a preview of upcoming fixtures, including Armagh’s near-constant draw record and the potential impact of Dara Craig’s red card in the New York vs. Riscoman game, setting up a dramatic week ahead.
Leitrim’s victory over Sligo after 15 years is a landmark achievement that deserves more recognition in the power rankings.
Sligo’s poor game management and missed opportunities justify their drop, despite beating a higher-ranked team.
Mayo’s increased use of two-pointers reflects a tactical shift under Andy Moran, though conversion rates remain inconsistent.
Armagh’s 23% championship draw rate since 2023 reveals a recurring inability to close games, despite strong performances.
Wicklow’s promotion is tempered by their late collapse, making their ranking a case of potential vs. performance.
…and 5 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Introduction & Sponsorship
The episode opens with a promotional segment for Harvey Norman, official stats sponsor of GAA, and introduces the new Power Rankings format with Matthew Brennan as co-host. The hosts set the tone with a playful jab at Westmead’s low ranking.
Leitrim’s Historic Win Over Sligo
“It's one of those ones that we'll remember now, it'll probably never talk about again for the rest of the year but for in Leitrim that's as good as they could possibly do.”
Controversial Rankings & Sligo’s Drop
“I think Sligo have to be punished.”
Wicklow’s Promotion & Potential vs. Performance
The hosts debate Wicklow’s promotion and their late collapse against Carlow. Tommy argues against rewarding potential, while Matthew believes their performance deserves more recognition.
Tyrone’s Struggles & Armagh’s Draw Problem
“Since the 2023 Ulster final 26% of Armagh games in the championship have ended in a draw.”
“I think Sligo have to be punished.”
“Since the 2023 Ulster final 26% of Armagh games in the championship have ended in a draw.”
“Mayo scored more two-pointers in the first quarter of the first half on Saturday for 17 and a half minutes than they did in their entire championship campaign in 2025.”
Hosts
Tommy Rooney
person
Matthew Brennan
person
Leitrim
other
Sligo
other
Harvey Norman
brand
Mayo
other
Armagh
other
Barry McNulty
person
Off the Ball GAA
media
Stephen Poacher
person
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