Club Shay Shay - Episode: MADDEN Ratings! Part 2: Unc was rated 100 in '99?! Release Date: August 3, 2025

In this riveting episode of Club Shay Shay, NFL legend Shannon Sharpe engages in an animated and heartfelt conversation with fellow NFL star Chad "Ochocinco" Johnson. The duo delves deep into their experiences, Madden video game ratings, the art of trash-talking in the NFL, and their endeavors in player development. This episode is a treasure trove for football enthusiasts, offering both nostalgic insights and contemporary perspectives from two icons of the game.

1. Madden Ratings and Personal Reflections

The episode kicks off with Shannon Sharpe addressing Chad Johnson about his impressive Madden rating from 1999.

• Shannon Sharpe ([02:02]): "What's your highest ranking, Ochocoin? What's the highest you've been ranked?"

Chad responds with pride, stating his highest rating of 98 overall, emphasizing that his on-field antics sometimes overshadow his hard-earned skills.

• Chad Johnson ([02:13]): "I don't think people understand really how good I was unless you are really a football person... the hard work I actually put in to pull some plays off."

Shannon contrasts this by highlighting his own perfect rating.

• Shannon Sharpe ([02:52]): "He was a 99... I was one of the few guys that's ever been a 100."

This comparison sets the stage for a deeper discussion on how player personas influence public perception versus actual performance.

2. The Art and Impact of Trash-Talking in the NFL

A significant portion of the conversation centers around the role of trash-talking in football, its entertainment value, and its effects on players.

• Shannon Sharpe ([22:25]): "You got to move because they gonna pile on you. You have to keep your feet moving because, you know, hey, we all have been rolled up on. And it ain't no damn fun."

Chad elaborates on his approach to trash-talking, distinguishing it from others by highlighting its entertaining and non-malicious nature.

• Chad Johnson ([35:41]): "I sent gifts to my opponents in secondaries to elevate the level of trash talk. The bravado I brought to the game is a little different now. It's all fun and love before the game."

Shannon underscores the importance of camaraderie and mutual respect despite the competitive banter.

• Shannon Sharpe ([37:13]): "You don't talk as much when you're mic'd up before. The simple fact is people gonna think, oh, he don't do that much talking. He just doing this. Cause he mic'd up."

This section offers listeners an insider's perspective on the psychological and strategic facets of in-game banter.

3. Player Development and Workshops

Shannon and Chad discuss their initiatives to mentor and develop upcoming players, emphasizing the importance of skill-sharing and collaboration.

• Shannon Sharpe ([09:26]): "Tell us about your wide receiver camp... the clip of you being emotional and grateful to the guys that showed up."

Chad shares his experiences running a wide receiver workshop, expressing gratitude towards the participants and the collective effort to uplift the craft of receiving.

• Chad Johnson ([16:29]): "We talked about how great Mr. Rodgers is and wanting to improve and get better at their craft."

Shannon adds his perspective on the necessity of sharing knowledge rather than hoarding it, fostering an environment where "iron sharpens iron."

• Shannon Sharpe ([13:54]): "Now, what if somebody would have done that to you? What if somebody would have hoarded that information and teach you how to be and how to dip?"

This dialogue highlights the mutual respect between seasoned players and their commitment to nurturing the next generation.

4. Nostalgia and Career Highlights

The conversation takes a nostalgic turn as both Shannon and Chad reminisce about their playing days, memorable moments, and significant achievements.

• Chad Johnson ([05:59]): "I used to run full speed. This is Picasso."

• Shannon Sharpe ([18:03]): "I know the history of that position. I'm greatly appreciative."

They discuss legendary players, memorable games, and the evolution of the tight end and wide receiver positions over the years.

5. Personal Anecdotes and Light-Hearted Banter

Towards the end of the episode, Shannon and Chad engage in playful banter, showcasing their camaraderie and off-field personalities.

• Shannon Sharpe ([30:00]): "Hello, everybody. My name is Thanos."

• Chad Johnson ([32:20]): "You'd be a PC. I'm Big. He said, I run stuff around here."

Their exchange about pets, hobbies, and friendly challenges adds a layer of relatability and humor to the episode.

6. Addressing Criticism and Public Perception

The duo tackles the subject of public criticism, particularly focusing on Maddens ratings and how external opinions impact their legacy.

• Chad Johnson ([43:45]): "Everything is predicated off numbers and based on what they did."

• Shannon Sharpe ([46:28]): "What's stopping someone that comes on here? How he get 14,000 yards."

They discuss the validity of statistics in evaluating a player's career and the subjective nature of public opinion.

7. Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The episode wraps up with acknowledgments of past discussions and a reaffirmation of their ongoing commitment to football and mentoring.

• Chad Johnson ([48:14]): "So anybody that comes on here, I have the utmost confidence in my ability...I can beat them."

• Shannon Sharpe ([49:28]): "We just. This ain't no...we got a pulse. That's what we got."

Their closing remarks emphasize resilience, continuous improvement, and the undying passion for the game.

Notable Quotes:

• Shannon Sharpe ([22:25]): "You got to move because they gonna pile on you. You have to keep your feet moving because, you know, hey, we all have been rolled up on. And it ain't no damn fun."

• Chad Johnson ([35:41]): "I sent gifts to my opponents in secondaries to elevate the level of trash talk. The bravado I brought to the game is a little different now. It's all fun and love before the game."

• Shannon Sharpe ([13:54]): "Now, what if somebody would have done that to you? What if somebody would have hoarded that information and teach you how to be and how to dip?"

Final Thoughts

This episode of Club Shay Shay offers a blend of intense discussion, heartfelt moments, and entertaining banter between Shannon Sharpe and Chad Johnson. Listeners gain invaluable insights into the dynamics of NFL personalities, the significance of player development, and the enduring spirit that drives these legends of the game. Whether you're a die-hard football fan or someone interested in the stories behind the athletes, this episode provides a comprehensive and engaging listen.