Podcast Summary: Bussin' With The Boys – Best of the Bus: Josh Allen Talks Stefon Diggs Drama, Madden Cover, and More

Episode Release Date: July 5, 2025

Introduction to "Best of the Bus" Series

In this inaugural episode of the "Best of the Bus" series, hosts Will Compton and Taylor Lewan revisit some of their favorite moments and interviews from previous years. The first guest featured is Josh Allen, the NFL MVP from 2024, who joins the hosts to discuss his experience being featured on the Madden cover, the wild season of the Buffalo Bills, the aftermath of the Demar Hamlin incident, and various amusing anecdotes unique to his personality.

Madden Cover and the "Madden Curse"

Josh Allen shares his surreal experience of landing on the Madden NFL cover, comparing it to his childhood memories of learning football through the game. He reflects on the extensive use of his likeness in Madden, citing impressive in-game statistics:

Josh Allen [04:04]: "A billion rushing yards, a few billion passing yards, 100 million touchdowns..."

When asked about the infamous "Madden curse," Allen confidently dismisses it, referencing how previous cover athletes like Patrick Mahomes and Tom Brady have defied the curse's predictions:

Josh Allen [04:50]: "That's already done and over with. Pat and Tom broke that a few years ago."

Josh Allen's Journey to the NFL: Growth and Development

Allen recounts his non-traditional path to becoming a top NFL quarterback. Initially a late bloomer who didn't hit his growth spurt until college, he emphasizes his dedication and work ethic:

Josh Allen [05:37]: "I was living on my own. I was going to Wendy's and Carl's Jr. every single night and just eating as much as I could."

His physical transformation from a 6'0", 170-pound senior to a formidable NFL presence highlights his perseverance and commitment.

Team Dynamics and Relationships

Discussing team chemistry, Allen speaks highly of his relationship with teammate Stefon Diggs, addressing recent media-fueled dramas. He emphasizes the strong bond and mutual respect within the Buffalo Bills:

Josh Allen [22:05]: "Yeah, I love him. That's my guy. The media has blown this so far out of proportion..."

Allen appreciates the supportive environment and the camaraderie that helps the team navigate challenging times.

The Demar Hamlin Incident and Its Impact

A significant portion of the conversation delves into the emotional aftermath of the Demar Hamlin incident. Allen describes the collective response from the team and the NFL community:

Josh Allen [11:54]: "It was nuts, but an amazing effort by our training staff... prayers don't hurt."

He narrates the difficult decision-making process during the game and the respectful agreement between opposing teams to not continue playing, underscoring the humanity and solidarity within the sport.

Leadership and Locker Room Roles

As a quarterback, Allen discusses the importance of leadership and authenticity. He strives to lead by example, emphasizing hard work and mutual respect:

Josh Allen [26:31]: "I think the weight of your words matter a lot more, especially in the locker room..."

He avoids formal leadership strategies, preferring to remain genuine and let his actions speak for his leadership.

Off-season Routine and Golfing Hobby

Beyond football, Josh Allen is an avid golfer. He elaborates on how golf serves as both a relaxation tool and a way to bond with teammates:

Josh Allen [52:00]: "My life in the off season kind of revolves around it. I just love it..."

He shares experiences from notable golf events and aspires to play the top 100 courses worldwide, reflecting his passion for the sport.

Personal Life and Challenges with Fame

Allen opens up about the challenges of handling fame, particularly the overwhelming attention at personal events like his sister’s wedding. He reveals his preference for a more private life and the strategies he employs to manage public interactions:

Josh Allen [59:12]: "I felt like I was getting bombarded by people at her wedding... I need to get out of here."

He acknowledges the balancing act between his public persona and his desire for privacy.

Future Aspirations and Post-Football Plans

Looking ahead, Allen aspires to travel extensively and engage in various interests beyond football. He mentions his intention to emulate athletes like Tim Duncan by maintaining a low profile and focusing on personal growth:

Josh Allen [63:11]: "I kind of want to do the Tim Duncan route. I don't wanna be too much in the spotlight."

He expresses enthusiasm for international travel, particularly to golf-centric destinations like Ireland, Scotland, and Japan.

Ball Security and On-field Performance

A candid discussion on ball security reveals Allen’s personal commitment to improving in this area and his interactions with coaches regarding game performance:

Josh Allen [43:35]: "I need to be better in that area."

He explains the technical aspects of his gameplay, including his approach to rolling out and decision-making under pressure.

Humorous Banter and Light-hearted Moments

Throughout the episode, host and co-host engage in playful banter with Allen, discussing topics like favorite fast food, drink preferences, and light-hearted locker room jokes. These moments showcase Allen’s personable and relatable nature, adding depth to his character beyond the football field.

Conclusion

The episode concludes with a warm exchange between Josh Allen and the hosts, highlighting the camaraderie and mutual respect among the participants. Allen expresses his appreciation for being part of the "Best of the Bus" series and looks forward to future interactions.

Notable Quotes:

• Josh Allen [03:25]: "It's like as a kid, you play this game that's like how I learned the game of football..."
• Josh Allen [04:04]: "A billion rushing yards, a few billion passing yards, 100 million touchdowns..."
• Josh Allen [22:05]: "Yeah, I love him. That's my guy. The media has blown this so far out of proportion..."
• Josh Allen [11:54]: "It was nuts, but an amazing effort by our training staff... prayers don't hurt."
• Josh Allen [26:31]: "I think the weight of your words matter a lot more, especially in the locker room..."
• Josh Allen [63:11]: "I kind of want to do the Tim Duncan route. I don't wanna be too much in the spotlight."

Final Thoughts

This comprehensive episode of "Bussin' With The Boys" offers an in-depth look into Josh Allen’s professional journey, personal philosophies, and experiences within the NFL. The candid conversations, enriched with memorable quotes and insightful discussions, provide listeners with a nuanced understanding of one of football’s rising stars.