The Skimm: Alperen Şengün is lighting up Google Trends on March 27, 2025, as NBA fans across the US dive into the debate over the Houston Rockets ’ jumbo lineup. The Rockets are pairing their star center Şengün with veteran big man Steven Adams , and it’s sparking big conversations about their playoff potential. With the NBA playoffs on the horizon, this duo’s impact—both good and bad—is getting major attention. On X , #RocketsJumboLineup is buzzing as fans weigh in on whether this strategy will make or break Houston’s postseason run. Why It’s the Rockets’ Jumbo Lineup Debate … Playoff Game-Changer? The New York Times says the Rockets’ jumbo lineup of Şengün and Adams could be a playoff game-changer . Şengün’s playmaking—think Nikola Jokic -level vision—pairs with Adams’ bruising presence, giving Houston a unique edge. Together, they’ve logged 210 possessions with a jaw-dropping 127.1 offensive rating and a stingy 91.5 defensive rating, per Cleaning the Glass. That’s a ...
The frenzy began with a single article from Madrid. A local publication, reporting on the closure of Farmesa Fresh—a short-lived ghost kitchen venture backed by Chipotle—accidentally conflated the two brands. The original headline blared, “Say Goodbye to Chipotle,” leaving readers to assume the entire chain was shuttering. The piece spread like wildfire, turbocharged by influencers and anxiety-driven shares. By lunchtime, “#RIPChipotle” was trending.
Chipotle Strikes Back: “Zero Debt, Zero Closures”
As the rumor metastasized, Chipotle’s PR team swung into action. “These claims are completely false,” a spokesperson told Newsweek, dispelling the panic with cold, hard stats: $2 billion in cash reserves, zero debt, and a 14.6% revenue surge in 2024. The chain isn’t just surviving—it’s expanding, with 300 new locations slated to open this year, many featuring the wildly popular “Chipotlane” drive-thru windows for mobile orders.
“We’re healthier than ever,” the spokesperson added, throwing shade at the drama. Even the Madrid outlet backtracked, issuing corrections to clarify that only Farmesa Fresh—a pandemic-era experiment in virtual brands—had folded.
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Why the Mix-Up? A Lesson in Viral Misinformation
The confusion stemmed from Chipotle’s brief foray into ghost kitchens. In 2023, the company tested Farmesa Fresh, a delivery-only concept focused on protein bowls. But by summer 2024, they’d already pulled the plug, deeming it a distraction from their core burrito-slinging empire. Overseas reporters, unfamiliar with the niche venture, mistakenly linked its demise to the parent company—a slip-up that snowballed into global hysteria.
Chipotle’s Secret Sauce: Innovation & Loyalty
Behind the noise, Chipotle’s success story is undeniable. Their digital strategy—app orders now account for over 40% of sales—has kept them ahead of rivals. The Chipotlane, a drive-thru model for pre-paid pickups, became a pandemic-era hit, blending convenience with the brand’s “fresh” ethos. Meanwhile, menu tweaks (like the viral Chicken Al Pastor) and sustainability pledges (sourcing 100% organic beans by 2025) keep fans hooked.
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The Takeaway: Don’t Bet Against the Burrito
As the dust settles, Chipotle’s saga offers a masterclass in crisis management—and a reminder of how quickly misinformation can spiral. For now, the chain’s 3,700+ locations aren’t going anywhere. In fact, you’ll likely spot a new Chipotlane popping up near you soon. So next time you see a doom-and-gloom headline, remember: sometimes, the guac isn’t extra. It’s just fake news.
— Lori Comstock | Mid-Atlantic Connect Team
P.S. Want proof Chipotle’s thriving? Try snagging a lunchtime parking spot near one. Good luck. 🥑🚗💨
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