The 2026 Ulster Senior Football Championship kicks off this weekend with Tyrone facing Armagh in a pivotal quarter-final clash. Former Dublin star Philly McMahon and ex-Monaghan forward Conor McManus joined The GAA Social podcast to analyze the provincial championship and predict the eventual winners.

McMahon believes Armagh holds the edge over Tyrone despite their recent All-Ireland U20 successes, citing size disadvantages in kick-outs as a concern. McManus echoed these sentiments, noting Tyrone's lack of physicality outside key players like Conn Kilpatrick and Brian Kennedy. Both analysts questioned Tyrone's preparation after the controversy surrounding Darragh Canavan's proposed Australia trip.

The podcast also examined the other side of the draw, where Derry hosts Antrim and Cavan faces Monaghan. With neither Cavan nor Monaghan in strong form, McManus sees this as a wide-open opportunity for provincial glory. Looking beyond Ulster, the trio identified Donegal and Kerry as the All-Ireland favorites, with Donegal's tactical evolution under Jim McGuinness potentially solving the Paudie Clifford dilemma.