Andrew Novak is not your typical PGA Tour player. While he’s defending champion at this week’s Zurich Classic of New Orleans alongside partner Ben Griffin, Novak is also one of the tour’s most devoted NFL fans. This week, as the NFL draft kicks off in Pittsburgh, Novak’s attention will be divided—between chasing a rare back-to-back title in golf’s only team event and dissecting the latest moves in football’s biggest off-season spectacle.
Golf and Gridiron: A Unique Dual Focus
At 31, Novak’s passion for football goes far beyond casual fandom. He co-hosts the “ScreenPlay Podcast,” a weekly show focused on the NFL, fantasy football, and gambling. This side gig began in 2023 when a college teammate invited him on board. What started as a temporary fill-in role quickly became a mainstay, allowing Novak to merge his deep football knowledge with his PGA Tour life.
His podcast has featured notable guests, including NFL executive-turned-PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp and fellow tour pro Harris English, who praises Novak’s encyclopedic recall of football history, especially from the ’90s and early 2000s. Novak’s expertise, which often surprises even seasoned insiders, highlights his dedication to dissecting football strategy and player potential during the golf off-seasons and tournament breaks.
Why Andrew Novak NFL Fan Status Matters on Tour
Novak’s intense following of the NFL isn’t just a hobby; it influences how he approaches the mental game on the course. Golf demands focus and patience, qualities honed by analyzing complex football plays and draft strategies. His ability to immerse himself in two demanding sports shows a mental agility that might give him an edge when paired with Griffin at this week’s Zurich Classic.
Understanding the stakes in both arenas is key. The Zurich Classic offers a chance for Novak and Griffin to defend their title—a rare feat in a format that requires seamless teamwork. Simultaneously, the NFL draft shapes the future of franchises, and Novak’s podcast previews demonstrate a savvy grasp of scouting and potential that translates to his analytical approach on the course.
Football Takes Center Stage Off the Course
Outside the ropes, Novak is a devoted Carolina Panthers fan, a passion rooted in childhood experiences attending games in South Carolina. He also follows college football closely, with a particular affinity for the University of Miami Hurricanes, whose early-2000s championship teams hooked him on the sport.
His podcast discussions cover everything from the Jets’ quarterback moves to concerns about Falcons’ signing strategies. Novak’s critiques reflect a deep understanding of player development and team dynamics—skills that resonate with golf fans interested in the strategy behind both sports.
What This Means for Fans and Fellow Players
Novak’s dual commitment offers a fresh perspective on how athletes engage with multiple sports at a high level. For golf enthusiasts, his insights into football draft prospects and team management provide a crossover appeal, enriching the viewing experience. For NFL fans, Novak’s golf career adds a layer of appreciation for the discipline and focus required in professional sports.
His ability to prepare for the NFL draft by reviewing college game footage shows a level of preparation that mirrors how golfers study courses and conditions—both require attention to detail and adaptability.
More Than Just a Side Hustle
While Novak’s primary focus remains on his golf career, which includes recent top-20 finishes and a strong showing at the RBC Heritage, his podcasting and football analysis are more than hobbies. They keep him mentally sharp and connected to a broader sports community.
Partner Ben Griffin credits Novak’s football talk for keeping the mood light on the course, suggesting that these conversations may help Novak stay loose during high-pressure moments. As Novak and Griffin seek to become the first duo to win consecutive Zurich Classics, this blend of golf and gridiron passion could be a secret weapon.
Looking Ahead: Watching Novak’s Next Moves
The Zurich Classic presents a prime opportunity to see how Novak balances his twin passions under pressure. Golf fans can watch for how his NFL insights might translate to strategic decisions on the course, especially with Griffin by his side. Meanwhile, as the NFL draft unfolds, Novak’s podcast will offer a unique insider’s view, blending professional athletic experience with expert football analysis.
According to All The Golf, Novak’s NFL fandom isn’t just a personal interest—it’s a distinctive part of his identity on the PGA Tour, one that shapes his approach both on and off the course. For a broader view, explore our coverage of PGA Tour player profiles and rankings.
Source: according to All The Golf
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