Nightcap - Hour 1: Colorado lands 4 highly rated recruits, Matt Eberflus poor clock management

Summary

Club Shay Shay - Nightcap Episode Summary
Release Date: November 29, 2024
Episode: Nightcap - Hour 1: Colorado Lands 4 Highly Rated Recruits, Matt Eberflus Poor Clock Management

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Introduction

In this engaging episode of Club Shay Shay, NFL legend Shannon Sharpe and co-host DJ Dramos delve into significant developments involving the University of Colorado’s football program and critique recent coaching decisions in the NFL. The episode focuses on Colorado University securing commitments from four highly rated recruits and provides an in-depth analysis of Matt Eberflus’s questionable clock management during a critical NFL game.

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I. Colorado University Lands Four Top Recruits

Shannon Sharpe and DJ Dramos kick off the episode by welcoming four promising high school athletes who have committed to joining the Colorado Buffaloes football team. Each recruit shares their personal journey, motivations, and aspirations as they transition to collegiate athletics.

1. London Merritt – Defensive End/Defensive Tackle

   • Background: Standing 6’3” and weighing 255 pounds, London Merritt hails from Atlanta, Georgia, and attended IMG Academy.
   • Commitment Announcement:
     Alex McPherson (London Merritt):
     “I'll be committed to big Colorado University.”
     (Timestamp: 06:30)
   • Discussion Highlights:
     London discusses his decision to switch commitment from Ohio State to Colorado, emphasizing the program’s belief in his potential and the influence of legendary figures like Warren Sapp on the coaching staff.
     London Merritt:
     “It was a business decision for me. I had to bet on myself and I felt like it was just a better fit for me.”
     (Timestamp: 08:34)

2. Alex McPherson – Defensive End/Defensive Tackle

   • Background: Similar in size to London Merritt, Alex also comes from IMG Academy, originally committed to Oklahoma State before flipping to Colorado.
   • Commitment Announcement:
     Alex McPherson:
     “I'll be committed to Colorado.”
     (Timestamp: 07:00)
   • Discussion Highlights:
     Alex elaborates on his admiration for Colorado’s coaching philosophy under Coach Prime, highlighting the emphasis on character development both on and off the field.
     Alex McPherson:
     “I want to become a freshman All American. I’m going to work my tail off and prove it to him.”
     (Timestamp: 10:53)

3. Quentin Gibson – Wide Receiver

   • Background: A 5’8”, 165-pound speedster from Fort Worth, Texas, Quentin is known for his exceptional agility and speed in high school track and football.
   • Commitment Announcement:
     Quentin Gibson:
     “I’ll be committed to Colorado. Go Buffs.”
     (Timestamp: 32:53)
   • Discussion Highlights:
     Quentin expresses his desire to make history at Colorado, aiming to become a standout player and contribute significantly to the team’s offensive strategies.
     Quentin Gibson:
     “I just want my name in the history books.”
     (Timestamp: 37:24)

4. Cardi “Smitty” Smith – Offensive Tackle

   • Background: A formidable 6’5”, 295-pound offensive tackle from Mobile, Alabama, Cardi has demonstrated impressive versatility and strength throughout his high school career.
   • Commitment Announcement:
     Cardi “Smitty” Smith:
     “I'll be committed to Colorado. Go Buffs.”
     (Timestamp: 41:59)
   • Discussion Highlights:
     Cardi discusses his decision to join Colorado, citing the family-like environment and the opportunity to play early in his collegiate career as key factors. He also emphasizes his commitment to becoming a starting offensive tackle from day one.
     Cardi “Smitty” Smith:
     “I can compete with anybody for that starting spot.”
     (Timestamp: 43:49)

Notable Quotes:

• London Merritt: “I need somebody on my back to get on me when I'm not doing what I gotta do.”
  (Timestamp: 09:34)
• Alex McPherson: “I need somebody on my back to get on me when I'm not doing what I gotta do.”
  (Timestamp: 09:34)

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II. Critical Analysis of Matt Eberflus’s Clock Management

Shannon Sharpe and DJ Dramos transition to a heated discussion regarding Matt Eberflus’s recent decisions as the head coach, particularly focusing on poor clock management during a pivotal Lions vs. Bears game.

A. Breakdown of the Game Situation

• Game Context:
  The Detroit Lions faced off against the Chicago Bears in a tightly contested match that ended with a narrow victory for the Lions, 23-20. A crucial moment arose in the second half when Caleb Williams, Lions’ quarterback, was sacked with 33 seconds remaining on the clock.

B. Critique of Coaching Decisions

• Clock Mismanagement:
  Shannon and DJ criticize Eberflus for not calling a timeout immediately after the sack, despite having timeouts available, which they argue could have preserved time for a potential game-tying play.
  Shannon Sharpe:
  “You have to make split-second decisions. Why would you not call a timeout with 33 seconds left?”
  (Timestamp: 56:00)
  DJ Dramos:
  “I think he must have been betting against the odds out there in goddamn Vegas for not calling that goddamn timeout.”
  (Timestamp: 54:33)

• Player Accountability:
  The hosts emphasize the importance of accountability and effective leadership, stating that continuous poor decisions can erode team confidence and performance.
  Shannon Sharpe:
  “This is coaching malpractice. He should already know. He needs to take accountability.”
  (Timestamp: 56:07)
  DJ Dramos:
  “Coaching is the difference between not winning, not losing the past five games.”
  (Timestamp: 58:37)

• Impact on Team Morale and Performance:
  The discussion highlights how such decisions not only impact individual games but also the overall morale and effectiveness of the team.
  Shannon Sharpe:
  “They don't want to let you get away with that cause they saw Patrick Mahomes did it before. They gonna punish you.”
  (Timestamp: 53:34)

C. Quotes Highlighting Frustration:

• Shannon Sharpe:
  “I don't get it. I don’t get why he continuously finds himself in that situation week after week.”
  (Timestamp: 62:56)
• DJ Dramos:
  “That's coaching malpractice. You should fire him.”
  (Timestamp: 54:33)

Conclusion of Analysis:
Shannon and DJ conclude that Matt Eberflus’s repeated clock management errors are detrimental to the Lions’ chances of success and argue that such decisions warrant serious repercussions, including potential termination, to restore the team’s competitive edge.

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III. Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

As the episode wraps up, Shannon Sharpe reiterates the significance of the new recruits to Colorado’s football program and underscores the crucial role of effective coaching in achieving team success. The hosts encourage listeners to stay tuned for future episodes that will continue to explore the intersections of athletics, leadership, and personal development.

Closing Remarks:

• Shannon Sharpe:
  “Congratulations to all our new commitments to Colorado. We’re excited to see what you bring to the team and wish you all the best in your collegiate careers.”
  (Timestamp: 40:17)
• DJ Dramos:
  “We’ll be following your journeys closely and can’t wait to see you make history with the Buffs.”
  (Timestamp: 43:35)
• Shannon Sharpe:
  “And to Matt Eberflus, we hope you take this feedback seriously for the betterment of the team.”
  (Timestamp: 67:14)

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Notable Quotes Throughout the Episode:

• Shannon Sharpe: “You have to make split-second decisions.”
  (Timestamp: 56:00)
• DJ Dramos: “Coaching is the difference between not winning, not losing the past five games.”
  (Timestamp: 58:37)
• London Merritt: “I want to become a freshman All American.”
  (Timestamp: 10:53)
• Cardi “Smitty” Smith: “I can compete with anybody for that starting spot.”
  (Timestamp: 43:49)

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This episode of Club Shay Shay provides listeners with insightful discussions on the strategic decisions impacting college football recruitment and professional coaching efficacy, all while highlighting the personal aspirations of emerging athletic talent.

Transcript

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[London Merritt]

Yes, sir.

[Shannon Sharpe]

The floor is yours.

[Alex McPherson]

Well, first of all, I want to thank God for giving me the ability to play football at this high of a level on the thing. Both my parents are pushing me to my limits every day, sacrificing everything for me. You know, without them, I wouldn't be in this position today. You know, I want to thank all my coaches from literally to now. I want to thank all my trainers, you know, John Lewis, DEZ Walker. Now, I also want to thank my agent, Cliff Hill. And without further ado, I'll be committed to big Colorado University.

[DJ Dramos]

Okay, sir.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Congratulations, man.

[DJ Dramos]

Congratulations.

[Alex McPherson]

I appreciate you.

[DJ Dramos]

Hold on. I just thought about something. Now, you could. You.

[Shannon Sharpe]

You.

[DJ Dramos]

You said thank you to everybody, but you ain't thank me. Can I. Can I get some type of.

[Alex McPherson]

You know what? I'mma thank you after I whoop you whenever you come to Atlanta on that one. On one.

[DJ Dramos]

Oh, timeout. Time out. Time out. I'd be there tomorrow.

[Shannon Sharpe]

I be there tomorrow. You understand?

[DJ Dramos]

Listen, I play. I play left tackle. I play right tackle. And I. I studied you. I did my research on you. I know what you can do. You the real deal. You@img m. I'm in. I'm in Miami. I'm right down the street. So I've been watching. You know, I've been watching. I did my homework. But I'm just telling. I know your moves. I know what you like to do. Now listen, what you can't.

[Shannon Sharpe]

You.

[DJ Dramos]

You can bend real good.

[Shannon Sharpe]

You got.

[DJ Dramos]

You got a few moves. You got a few moves in your arsenal. Hey, and your first step, nigga, you got a first step. You got a good first step. But I'm telling you what I could do. Once I anchor down, once I anchor down at the point of attack, it's over for you, boy.

[Shannon Sharpe]

All right?

[Alex McPherson]

I'm gonna let you think that.

[Quentin Gibson]

All right?

[DJ Dramos]

All right. I'll be in Atlanta tomorrow. That's all I got to say.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Let's do it. London, you had an opportunity to go to a lot of big schools. Originally you were scheduled to go to Ohio State. We know what O State as far as the defensive line. The Bosa brothers, Chase Young, Vernon Goldstone. They normally have high round draft picks at the D line position. What went into your decision? You flip and all of a sudden you're going to see you Colorado. Coach prime is very excited about that. What went into your decision to all of a sudden says, you know what? I think CU is the place for me.

[Alex McPherson]

Well, it was just, you know, the way that Colorado believes in me and then just the consistency from Colorado, you know, Ohio State, you know, especially Coach Johnson, you know, I love them a lot, but at the end of the day, it was a business decision for me. I had to bet on myself and I felt like it was just a better fit for me, Better fit for me and Colorado's, you know, defense, you know, with their staff and everything of that nature. So that's just the main reason why I just decided to go ahead, make a decision with my family and flip over to Colorado.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Have you spent any time. Warren Sapp is on that staff as an assistant. We know what Sapp is. He's the first Battle hall of Fame D tackle, one of the premier D tackles in NFL history. Have you spent much time talking to SAP?

[Alex McPherson]

Yeah, every time I. Every, every. Well, every day I was there, you know, we was talking. He's crazy. I love him a lot, you know. Yeah, he brings a lot of energy to the room and, you know, it's just something I need, you know, I need somebody on my back to get on me when I'm not doing what I gotta do.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Right. Coach prime love, he loves players with swag and he lets guys Be themselves, you know, celebrate, hey, celebrate. Just don't hurt the team. But I want you to be yourself. I'm not going to force you to be something that you're not. If you play with a lot of emotion, you play with a lot of passion, as long as you're not hurting the team, that is who I want you to be. Do you. Do you. Is that how you play? Is that one of the things? Because you see how the guys holding up this. The guys doing they having. Seemingly having fun.

[Alex McPherson]

Yeah, I mean, of course. I mean, shoot. You see it like. You see it.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Hell, I thought that was Foot Locker.

[Alex McPherson]

Nah, it was like basement. Like, you see it like, of course I got that swag. You know what I'm saying? But, yeah, on the field, you know, I got my little celebrations, you know, I come out, you know how Coach Prom said, you know, look good, feel good, play good. You know what I'm saying? So at the end of the day.

[Shannon Sharpe]

And they pay good.

[Alex McPherson]

Oh, yeah. Yes, sir.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Go ahead. So what are some of the personal. What are some of the first. Obviously, you say you're going to get there the spring, so your opportunity. I think you'll get an opportunity to practice in the spring and hopefully, you know, see what you can do. But what's your goal? What's. What's the goal for you, London, your freshman year? What do you want to accomplish in your first year at cu?

[Alex McPherson]

Definitely want to, you know, become a freshman All American, you know, freshman first team or this, you know, because I just want to be a Freshman All American. And then that's one of my main goals when I get there. So I'm gonna, you know, work my tail off. You know, I'm gonna let Coach prime know that's what I want to do. So I'm gonna work my tail off and, you know, prove it and just prove it to him. You know, there's also some. There's also some. I know I can hear my parents upstairs, you know, some goals in a way in the weight room that I gotta handle, too. You know, I'm trying to get my 40 down to, you know, 4, 5, you know, 225 for at least more than 30 times. So, you know, this. There's things I needed, I got, you know, set my goals for.

[DJ Dramos]

Yeah, you know what? I do want to congratulate you again. You know, there were other schools that you could have chosen, but you're choosing to go to Colorado again with a legend in Dion and one that will allow you to be yourself. And I Think that's very important. And not only are you getting a coach, a very, very good health head coach, but you're getting. You're getting. How do I say it? A player's coach, which is very important, especially for the younger generation. A coach that can relate. The younger generation can relate to this era. And not only a coach, dude, you're getting a person like prime, man, that can also be somewhat of a father figure as well, and someone that will help you become a man outside of your immediate family. And I think that's also a good thing. And the fact that he's going to allow you to be yourself, I think that's very, very important for prime to be. To be able to understand on how the players of this era are able to enjoy themselves and express enthusiasm with their play and the passion for the game. So for one, I want to congratulate you. And you will have a good time over there, man. You have a good time. You getting more than just a head coach. And you might not understand it right now, but you get it on the back end. What I mean.

[London Merritt]

Yes, sir, of course.

[DJ Dramos]

I appreciate that.

[Shannon Sharpe]

London, if you were to compare yourself, who are some of the guys in the NFL that you look at and says, okay, I kind of want to pattern my game after him?

[DJ Dramos]

Ocho.

[Alex McPherson]

Ocho, yeah. But not definitely, definitely Michael Parsons. You know, I watch them a lot and, you know, I'm a. I would say I'm versatile. You know, I can play all over, all over the line and, you know, and I definitely see myself playing the way he plays. You know, he blisses from linebacker plays, you know, all the wide nine, you know, and then type five, you know, just all over the line. So that's just, you know, that's my main comparison.

[Shannon Sharpe]

You know, do you like to stand up or you like to put your hand in your dirt? Are you more comfortable with a 43 being down like you said in the nine machete seven technique and the three and a three, four defense you mentioned, it's like a five out. Like, damn, you want to be a tight defensive being. So what? You see yourself sliding up and down the line. Wherever you can find a weak link, that's the door handle you want to pull on.

[Alex McPherson]

Oh, yeah, of course. You know, anywhere on the line, you know, because like I said, I'm versatile, you know, anywhere, anywhere they need me, I'll be there. So I'm, I'm good standing up. I'm good, you know, coming off that three point stance. So why nine top five, three anywhere so that's live.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Coach prime also. He also like, he's like, look, obviously these guys come here and some of them have aspirations to go into the next level, and I want that to happen, but I want to create great men. I want to create great fathers, I want to create great husbands, I want to create great community leaders. Academics is something that he stressed. What will you. Have you decided on a major?

[Alex McPherson]

Yeah, I'm probably major in business and finance.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Okay, that's, that's, that's, that's a good, you know, how do you handle your business? And then you're the finances to take care of themselves and you'll know where your money's going.

[Quentin Gibson]

Yes, sir.

[Shannon Sharpe]

You mentioned your mom. You mentioned your mom and dad, how they, they pushed you and they motivated you to become the best version of London that you could possibly. Come talk a little bit about your parents.

[Alex McPherson]

Well, every. Ever since I was little, my parents, you know, instilled greatness into me. My dad has been everywhere, you know, he's spent. My parents spent so much money, they sacrificed so much things. They sent me to img, you know, my junior, like the beginning of or halfway through my junior year, you know, so I can get ready and develop for college. And I'm not going. You know, that's a, that's kind of a big move because I'm not home. You know, it's different. It's like a Martin College, but at the end of the day, it's about, you know, my development, my, you know, and me being ready for the next level. So, you know, dad, he pushed me since I was a little kid. Always now and then they're even farther. So he tells me one thing I like about, you know, Coach Prime. He, you know, he always says he'll keep it 100 with you. He will tell you what you're doing is right or wrong. That's the same thing my dad's been doing since I was a little kid. You know, he's been telling me, you know, everything I don't want to hear and everything I need to hear. So he's just, he's not gonna, you know, baby me or tell me, oh, you had a pretty good game. Now if I had a bad game, I had a bad game and what I need to work on. So definitely I appreciate both of my parents. You know, my mom's there. My mom helps me with the school part. My mom don't play, but with the schoolwork, you know, so they like a lot. They like how, you know, Coach Brian doesn't play around either because, you know, while we, while we was there, we kind of did like a day in a life thing there, you know, like a day being a buffet, you know, and he randomly, you know, puts up people's grades on the. On the. On the board or whatever, so.

[Shannon Sharpe]

On the board, on the screen.

[Alex McPherson]

Yeah. So my mom, My mom. Well, my mom already owned me, but my grade, you know, so she liked that. And so now she ain't gotta worry about, you know, me slacking in school, whatever, because I'm gonna be on me.

[DJ Dramos]

Yeah. Hey, is. Is there a specific team that you like in NFL? I'm not saying where you want to go, but I'm just saying right now, as far as watching the game of football, do you have a specific favorite team and a favorite player? It doesn't have to be your position, just in general.

[Alex McPherson]

No, I don't really have like a favorite team. I just kind of watch the players. You know, I like, I like watching the Ravens, but my favorite, like my favorite player is Michael Parson right now. I just, I watch him so much and I just model my game after him so much. So that's just kind of my favorite player is right now. But I like watching. I really like watching the Ravens.

[DJ Dramos]

So outside of Michael Parsons, how do you feel about miles Garrett and T.J. watt?

[Alex McPherson]

Oh, yeah, no, they're both very good. Miles Gary, he's versatile too. He's strong. You know, he heavy handed. I would, if I were to like take some attributes for him, I would say our hand, like I. Our hands are, you know, similar. You know, I'm heavy handed too. I like to strike people, I like to hit people. You know what I'm saying? So.

[DJ Dramos]

Right.

[Alex McPherson]

And then, you know, the pastors is there.

[Shannon Sharpe]

London, congratulations. We appreciate you making this announcement on Club Shay. We greatly appreciate that.

[Alex McPherson]

Yes, sir.

[Shannon Sharpe]

I mean what I say. Oh, my bad. Nightcap. London. Before we go, guys, that's London merit. Defensive end, 6 foot 3, 255 pounds, from Atlanta, Georgia, but from the IMG Academy, it seems like IMG Academy Colorado has a pipeline from Ing Academy because he's the first of many that's going to be headed to see you. London, congratulations.

[DJ Dramos]

And don't duck me.

[Shannon Sharpe]

We'll keep. We're going to keep an eye on you and we'll see you down the road.

[DJ Dramos]

I'll be in Atlanta tomorrow. Don't duck me.

[Alex McPherson]

All right, bet.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Just let me know.

[DJ Dramos]

All smoke. You know what it is.

[Alex McPherson]

Yeah, yeah. No, I know. Don't worry.

[DJ Dramos]

Yeah. All right.

[Alex McPherson]

All right.

[Justin Jefferson]

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[DJ Dramos]

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[Shannon Sharpe]

Man IMG Academy must be had a heck of a defense. The next guy that has a very impressive announcement that he wants to make. He's a 6 foot 3 defensive end, defensive tackle, 265, 260 pounds. Also from the IMG Academy, he's Alex McPherson. Alex, I heard you got some very interesting news you want to break tonight on Nightcap. The floor is yours.

[London Merritt]

I definitely have some exciting news, but I want to thank a few people first. First and foremost, I want to thank my parents for being there for me every step of the way, sacrificing so much. I want to thank my family, uncles, aunts, cousins, all of them. I also want to thank Ruben Carter, George Bailey for helping me get to where I am training wise and my coaches from img. I also want to thank the coaches from Oklahoma State for, you know, respecting my decision, understanding that relationship we built has been really strong. But at the end of the day, like London said, it's a business decision. So without further ado, I'll be taking my talent to University of Colorado.

[Shannon Sharpe]

That's what's up, man. Congratulations, man. Y'all must have had a heck of a defense that had you on one side, London on the other. I'm reading, I'm reading your bio here. Your defensive end, defensive tackle, but you played a lot of other positions. You played tight end in high school, so obviously you got great hands. What made you flip to the other side of the football? Because if you're a tight end, you like touchdowns and, and the crowd screaming and all. And all of a sudden, did you grow out of the position or you just felt better hitting people as opposed to getting hit? Defensive player. Alex, if you don't mind us asking, you mentioned that Oklahoma State, you originally had committed that you were going to go to Oklahoma State, and then you last minute you change your mind and you flip to go to see you. What were some of the things that went into your decision that caused you to say, you know, obviously you had a strong liking for Oklahoma State because you originally committed to them. And then all of a sudden you change, you know, your reverse field and then you go to see you. What was some of the things, what was the major thing that made you change your mind?

[London Merritt]

Yes, sir. You know, the obvious is it's hard to pass up all those guys that have been where you want to go, and I think that's the best thing to help me get there. You know, the guys that have been there, done what you want to do and they know what it takes. So.

[DJ Dramos]

Yeah, I like that. What do you think you'll bring to Colorado's program that alongs with coach's prime vision and what he's trying to accomplish in having a consistent, winning program at Colorado?

[London Merritt]

I know he harps a lot about off the field character, which I have a great character off the field, very humble, you know, to myself on the field, strive for greatness. You know, they help that too. So I'm always trying for greatness. I got a great character on and off the field. It's very different character on the field than is off the field. So.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Right. What can, what can the student body, what can the alumni, what can the community of cu Boulder, Colorado, what can they expect to get out of Alec McPherson?

[London Merritt]

Oh, a great player that's always going to do his best to help the team win off the field. You know, I'm always open to meeting people, talking to them. You know, I'm really just like a chill guy off the field. I'm not the same guy off the field. You know, you see these kids, like, be cocky or whatever, and I want to talk to people. That's not me.

[DJ Dramos]

I like it. Listen, I know what you're doing. Oh, you got it?

[Shannon Sharpe]

No, no, go ahead.

[DJ Dramos]

Yeah, see, I know what your long term goal is. Obviously, Colorado being a stepping stone to get to the highest. The highest level, which I'm sure is a childhood dream of yours. But what are your short term goals as far as Colorado goals once you get to school?

[London Merritt]

You know, again, like London said, I want to be on the field early. Freshman All American is in my mind. And I want to get bigger, faster, stronger to, you know, get me to that next level.

[DJ Dramos]

I like. I have one question. As far as nutrition is concerned. Do you eat McDonald's? That's very important when it comes to being successful.

[London Merritt]

If it's late night, nothing else is open. At least some McDonald's.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Let's go.

[DJ Dramos]

That's what we're talking about. Freshman All American coming right now. I'm telling you, boy, they need to.

[London Merritt]

Have the McDonald's all over like basketball.

[Shannon Sharpe]

I'm looking at your bio, Alex. You're six three, 260 pounds. And I'm looking at some of the guys that, that are, that plays in the league, the level that you want to get to. Who are some of the guys that you kind of pattern your game after and says, you know what? I kind of, I kind of want to model my game after here, sir.

[London Merritt]

I've heard a lot of comparison of Max Crosby, like the way we play. Yeah, I don't really like to compare myself to people, to other people, you know, because everybody's a different person. But I mean, Max Crosby, I think, is my closest comparison.

[DJ Dramos]

Okay, let's, let's, let's go away from comparisons. Players that play your position, that's in the NFL. Is there someone that you look, you. You look up to, or you kind of model your game after and not compare? I'm not, not comparing. I'm just saying some of you model your game after and look up to. As far as someone like you, if there was a player that you would want to be like or maybe even better, even better than, who would it be?

[London Merritt]

I like Max Cosby. He has a high motor.

[DJ Dramos]

Okay.

[Shannon Sharpe]

He definitely has a motor. What was some of the things, Alex, when you, when you went on your visit to see you, what was some of the things that sold you and says, you know what? Instead of going to Stillwater, I think this is the place for me, you.

[London Merritt]

Know, going Back to what I said about all the people there, all the people around. Like, I saw Ocho on my visit. Like, that's just one of the people I saw. There's always.

[DJ Dramos]

Wait, you saw who? So who? I'm an intern, so when you get there in the spring, I'm an intern there, so we're gonna be seeing each other.

[London Merritt]

But, yeah, like I said, all the people that are around there, that if they tell you to move a hand a certain way, a foot a certain way, it can always help you, you know, get to that next level. And one of the things I like about that is they can tell you what separates the people that were great and what separates the people that were good. You know what I mean?

[Shannon Sharpe]

Obviously, I'm sure you had conversation. I asked London about SAP. You know, he's one of the premier defensive players that's ever played in our game. He played at a high level for a very, very long time. He was a defensive player of the year. He was an all decade player. And obviously he's a member of the Pro Football hall of Fame. What is it about Sapp that you like talking to him about?

[London Merritt]

That I like talking to him about?

[Pets Best Insurance]

Yeah.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Talking to Warren Sapp. So I'm sure you had conversations with him.

[London Merritt]

I mean, just ball, you know, what he did to get himself better. Like, I mean, that's really it. Like, on the sideline before the game, he came up, he was chest bumping my dad. He was saying, leave your boy here with me. Go have fun. Yeah, that was pretty cool. But like I said, just talking about ball, how he got to where he was. And it all goes back to, like, the people around there that know what it takes and they know how to get to them.

[Shannon Sharpe]

You mentioned that your mom's a DUI lawyer in South Florida. So tell me, tell me the role that your parents played in your upbringing and helped you get to the player, the person, the man that you're, the young man that you are into the transition, hopefully you become an even better man and even better football player. Tell us the role that your parents played in that.

[London Merritt]

Since a young age, they were on me hard about my future. Like, as soon as I started playing football, they were like, you gotta be locked in because, I mean, you're gonna have a future. Because I was big since a youngin, so. Yeah. And we're always in church, you know, so I love God. And we're a big Christian family, so that goes along with Coach Pine's culture and all that over there.

[DJ Dramos]

That's Live well, you know, every. Everything always starts at home. The foundation for any man, young man, regardless of what sport you play, regardless of what you do in the outside world, it always starts at home. And based off what I've seen so far, listen, your parents did one hell of a job, man, and I'm wishing you luck when you do get to Colorado. I'm gonna be seeing you there because I am an intern. I just got another job. You know, they were prime. So I'm excited for you. I'm excited for you. I hope your family, your parents are excited and I know you're going to do well.

[London Merritt]

Yes, sir. Thank you. We're all excited.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Alex, we're looking at one more thing before we get you out of here. Alex, I'm looking at your defensive end. Defensive tackle. Is there one that you favor other than the other? Do you like playing in space? You like the three technique? You like the shade? Or you like to be in a 9? Technique? You like to be in a 7 technique? You like to be in a 5? What do you favor? What's going to get the best out of Alex?

[London Merritt]

I like to say that I think I'm more productive on the inside because usually I'm a lot quicker than the guards, so I can, okay, get past them quicker. I like being in space because you can move too in space. But I think I'll be more productive as a defensive tackle because I can move quicker than a lot of the guards.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Well, Alex, we want to thank you for coming on Nightcap tonight and making this very, very special announcement. Congratulations to you and your family. There's big things ahead of you in your future. See you getting some, Got two great players and we're proud of you and we wish you the best. We will keep our own. And so I'm sure we'll have a conversation again next year.

[London Merritt]

Yes, sir. Thank you for having me.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Thanks for joining us. Appreciate you, bro. Our next guy that's going to make this very, very special announcement, he's out of Fort Worth, North Crowley High School. He's a wide receiver. He's 5 foot 8, 165 pounds. He runs on the 4 by 1 relay, the 4 by 2 relay. So normally when your guys out of Texas and they will play wide receiver or steel position, they normally can run.

[DJ Dramos]

Yeah.

[Shannon Sharpe]

So here he is. Without any further ado, Quentin Gibson. Quentin, the floor is yours. Take your time, young man.

[DJ Dramos]

Hold on, hold on, hold on, hold on. Qb. Qb. Before you go, before you go before, outside of the four by one, what else you run?

[J]

I run the four by two. They ain't really let me run the open event last year.

[DJ Dramos]

Okay. Okay. You think you faster than me?

[J]

Yeah.

[DJ Dramos]

Wait. Come again?

[Shannon Sharpe]

Yeah.

[DJ Dramos]

You could beat me in the 40, 60, 100.

[London Merritt]

Don't matter.

[DJ Dramos]

Hey, man, don't play me like that, man. No, I'm serious. I'm asking a real question.

[J]

I'm. I'm serious.

[DJ Dramos]

All right, line it up.

[J]

When? Any day.

[DJ Dramos]

All right. Where you at right now? You in Texas?

[J]

Yes, sir.

[DJ Dramos]

Okay. I'm gonna come. I'll be out there Saturday.

[J]

I bet we can do that to my game.

[DJ Dramos]

Okay.

[Shannon Sharpe]

I'm asking Rich. You have this game.

[DJ Dramos]

All right, Say less. I beat it, Smoke. You won't. Yo, I'm just. I'm just letting you know. And that's, with all due respect, like.

[Shannon Sharpe]

When you got a. Got a very special. Quentin, you got a very special announcement you like to make. The floor is yours.

[J]

First, I would like to thank God for giving me the talent opportunity to be where I am right here today. I would like to thank my family for being there with me through the ups and downs and the sacrifices they made for me to be at this point. Also, my coaches from Little League to now for developing. Developing me to the man I am today. I would like to thank my trainers from 365 Training for pushing me and helping me throughout my process. With that being said, I'll be committed to Colorado. Go Buffs.

[Shannon Sharpe]

There it is. That's what's up.

[DJ Dramos]

Yeah, we out here. Go Buffs.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Quinn, what went into this decision? Obviously, you know, going into your senior year, you didn't have a lot, but then you got Mississippi State, tcu, Kansas State, Illinois, smu, and a lot of other schools. What was it about your trip to Boulder that changed your mind and said, this is the place for me.

[J]

So when it's my decision, with me wanting to be bought into a school that was like family and like everybody that's been around, Coach prime been with Coach prime for many years. So, like, what was it? What was just a better option?

[DJ Dramos]

Yeah, that is true. Anytime you do play for Coach prime, obviously you being able to talk to him, you understand. You understand what you're getting, not just as a coach, but as a mentor, almost a father figure. And I continue to say that to the other athletes that we've had on there because he was a father figure and a mentor to me during my time, during my playing days, and even still long after, you know, my value in NFL is no longer worthy. So I'm excited For you. I'm happy for you. I've seen you, I studied you. I know what you could do. So I understand the contributions that you're going to bring, you know, to that team and that squad. So, dude, I'm happy. What do you hope to learn from Coach prime before you get there, once you in that. That controlled instruction environment?

[J]

Really, I hope, I hope to learn, Shoot, really, how to be a better man in life, you know, outside of football, but within. Within football, what is it going to take for me to get to the next level where I want to be?

[DJ Dramos]

Yeah.

[Shannon Sharpe]

The one thing y'all can say about Coach prime, if you look at his skill, position, players, the wide receivers, he puts the ball in the hands, be it Travis Hunter, be it Webster Shepard, it does not matter. He wants the ball into his playmaker's hand. You consider yourself a playmaker with elite speed. What do you hope. What do. What does Quentin bring to the CU offense?

[J]

Well, I bring the ability to flip the field no matter where we at. And I bring, you know, like that consistency we like. So if you need. You need a third down conversion. Throw me the ball. Hope to feel like the shoes. Is Lajante west and Jimmy on?

[Shannon Sharpe]

Yep. Yeah, but I'm. You're. You're the youngest. You have six siblings. You have five sisters, one brother. You're the second youngest. What is it like being in a family that. In a family that size, you say you're the second youngest. So is this your sister the oldest or sister the oldest?

[J]

Yeah, I have a sister that's the oldest. It's like really growing up, there's a lot of girls in the house, so a lot of different. A lot of different attitudes going on. You know, I have a brother. You know, my mom sometimes side with my sister more, but, you know, it is.

[Shannon Sharpe]

It is what it is now. So you get to see you. I. You look like. I think you're gonna. You're gonna roll in the spring and so obviously you're hoping to make an impression, to show everybody who Queen Gibson is. What do you hope to bring? What can the. What can the student body, what can the alumni, what can they expect from you in your freshman year? What do you want to accomplish in your freshman year?

[J]

I just want to make history. Like, whatever it takes. Like it could be most senior, most freshman, touchdown receiver, anything. I just want my name being history books.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Are you a returner also?

[J]

Yes, sir.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Wow.

[DJ Dramos]

Yeah.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Okay, so you want the ball. So in other words, he want the ball in his hands. Ocho. He Say they can point it to me, they can kick it to me, hand it to me, throw it to me. Just put the ball in my hands and I can make a play.

[DJ Dramos]

And all you got. All you got to do is show them start. Starting in the spring, you put the ball in my hands, I'm gonna do something with it every time. I'm gonna deliver like Amazon. Next day, two days, three days, it don't matter what it is. You got to walk with that confidence, and you already got it. Is there certain things that you can. Coaches can coach and just sitting here, exchanging with you in this short amount of time, you already got it. You got that itch factor. All you got to do is take. You already know what I'm trying to say. Take what you got now take it on the field, and the rest is going to be history. It don't matter who you playing week in and week out.

[J]

Yes, sir.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Quinn, when I look at you, obviously, it's just something about guys, receivers that come out of the state of Texas. We expect all them to run 4, 3 or faster. Who are some of the guys that, when you look at your. I mean, you're 5 foot 8, you're 165 pounds, but so that lets me know you. You got speed to play with, you got speed to burn. Who are some of the guys that were at the next level in the NFL that you was like, okay, I could. I. I can do some of the things that he does.

[J]

I could say, like Tyreek Hill, Turpin. I. Like Terry McLaurin.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Yeah.

[J]

I feel like I flip the field like Tyreek Hill. I can track the ball like Terry McLaurin, you know, got speed like Turpin, feet like.

[DJ Dramos]

I like that.

[Shannon Sharpe]

I like that. You got anything else, Ocho?

[DJ Dramos]

No, I. I had to throw. I had to throw another quality in there for him real quick. He. He left that one out.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Well, Quentin, congratulations, man. That's a. That's the CU family. I'm sure they're very, very excited to get you. Coach prime spoke very highly of you when I talked to him the other day. You're joining two great guys that's also going from the IMG Academy. It looks like this freshman class is going to be something special, something that, See, you can build on, because it looks like they're coming off. They're going to be coming off a great season. We'll see what happens. The last game of the season on Saturday, and then they're going to a bowl game, so hopefully they can win that. And if so, that means you guys coming in, you're going to have a lot on your shoulders because the CU that the last five or six years is not to see you today and what's going to be tomorrow. So, again, congratulations to you. Look forward to following your career, and I'm sure Ocho and I. Nightcap. See you down the road.

[DJ Dramos]

Down the road. I'm gonna see you Saturday. I'll see you Saturday after the game. And I got my spikes, too. I don't want no excuses.

[J]

No excuses.

[DJ Dramos]

Yeah. All right.

[Shannon Sharpe]

All right.

[DJ Dramos]

Yo.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Guys, I know you told me. I know we told you we're gonna have three guys, but we got a surprise. We got a fourth guy that's going to be joining us and making this special announcement. You ready? What? He's. He's coming. Give. Give us. Oh, there you go. There he goes. The guy that just joined us is a 6 foot 5, 295 lb offensive tackle from Mobile, Alabama, out of Williamson High School, Cardi, they call him Smitty Smith. Cardi, what's good? What's good, man? Congratulations, man. We're excited to have you on here at Nightcap, the Nightcap family, and you make this very, very special announcement. Hopefully, it's the first of many announcements that you're going to be making that's very, very special. The floor is yours. Take off. So we have a little technical difficulties. Bear with us, guys. Bear with us. Tonight we have some young men that's making some very, very special announcement for us. We good to go now. And so. So just bear with us. We really appreciate these young men coming on and sharing these very, very special announcements with us. This is very, very big for them. A lot of don't get this kind of platform to make this. These kind of announcements. So we really thank these young men for giving us their time and giving us this opportunity to showcase them. All right, Cardi, we got everything situated now. The floor is yours again.

[Quentin Gibson]

First, I want to give a big shout out to my mom. My dad should be shout out to my mom. You know, that's really my back ball. I want to give a shout out to my coaches, my teammates, and all my little league coaches and everybody that got me in this position, especially my whole family. And with that being said, I'll be committed to Colorado. Skull bus.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Yeah, the Buffs.

[DJ Dramos]

Let's go, Buffs.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Oh, how did Carter. Smitty. Okay, you want to be called. You want to be called Smitty or you want to be called. Go by your friend. Okay, Smitty. Okay, that's what. That's what we. That's all we need to know. Smitty, how did you come to this decision?

[Quentin Gibson]

Really just, you know, going up there. I've been up there twice. I went out there for the Baylor game and the Cincinnati game. Really just sitting down, talking with Coach Field, Coach prime, and all the other coaches and just seeing. Seeing that I have a chance to come and play early as a freshman, you know, that was the. The really the main thing that set it off.

[DJ Dramos]

Oh, yeah. Hey, what do you. What are you looking forward to most about competing at the collegiate level? Boss Man?

[Quentin Gibson]

I just want my shot. I just want my shot to go take, and I get it. They go, they gonna feel it.

[DJ Dramos]

Yeah.

[Shannon Sharpe]

What is. What is your expectation? The left tackle is a true freshman that's starting. Is that your. Is that your goal to go in there in the spring, earn a spot and says, look, I'm not. I. Look, I ain't trying to Red shirt. I ain't trying to rate a year and get rotational plays. I'm starting. I'm trying to be a day one starter from the jump.

[Quentin Gibson]

Yes, sir. That's my definite plan. You know, I feel like I can go in there. They give me the chance, and I feel like I compete with anybody. Take that spot.

[DJ Dramos]

I like that. Hey, I have a question, right? Like, I want to change the name. Can I. I'm going to call you Boss Man Smitty, all right? Okay, we rolling. We rolling with that. So from now, your name is Boss Man Smitty. Smitty, you decommitted from usc, right? And you chose Colorado. What went in, your decision that made you want to do that?

[Quentin Gibson]

Really, just the environment that I was around with Colorado, it just feel like family more and really Coach Field, you know, Coach Field, a real dude sitting down with Coach Field, he telling me the answer not. And this and that about Colorado and seeing that, you know, he actually played in the game. Having a coach that actually played at that position and, you know, was really the best in his time, you know, where he couldn't turn it down. Plus the opportunity to play early.

[Shannon Sharpe]

I'm. Listen, I'm. I'm looking at your background. You played basketball. Also played a little basketball. A little basketball middle school. You outgrew the corner.

[Quentin Gibson]

I had to get a basketball up.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Did you. Did you. Did you run track? Did you throw the shot? The discus? No. No, sir. So you just. Once. Once. Once you just started focusing on football, you like, okay, this is gonna be my ticket up out of here.

[Quentin Gibson]

Yeah, once I, once I took off with. It was always.

[Shannon Sharpe]

I'm reading your hometown, you grew up in Mobile, Alabama, obviously that's where the Senior bowl is located. Have you ever gone and watched those guys? Those are the guys that are the college seniors or the underclassmen that goes down there. All the scouts are there to get an opportunity because those are the guys that's going to get drafted. Have you ever gone down there and watched those guys practice, watch the game?

[Quentin Gibson]

Yes, sir. I ain't going to the one last year, but it used to be at la. You know, we used to always go up there every time they had the game. We used to go out there lad tailgate, then go watch the game and after, you know. Okay, get to meet the players and stuff.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Yeah, that's awesome. Obviously you want to play at the next level. When you look at some of the offensive tackles, you got Jay, obviously you got Trent Williams, you got Lane Johnson, you got some of those especially. Okay, go ahead. I'm gonna let you go ahead.

[Quentin Gibson]

You know, Trent Williams at left out, you got Lane Justin with Philadelphia at right tower. You know, I really study Lane just because, you know, he played my position. Yeah, that's what.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Right. Yes, he is great feet, great hands. If you notice those guys, they're never lazy with their feet and they're never lazy with their hands because these guys are the next level. Smitty, they real good. If you get lazy, it don't take about a half a step and they buy you. They are. Hey, hey.

[DJ Dramos]

His name is Boss Man Smitty. Now addressing. We got to address him the right way.

[Shannon Sharpe]

All right, Boss man. Boss man. Congratulations, bro. We really appreciate your time giving us a few minutes of your time to make this very, very important announcement. Hopefully, like I said, this is the first of many, many announcements that you're going to be making. Congratulations to you and your family. We know a lot of people here we are talking to you, but there's a lot of people behind the scenes that responsible for you being here today. And speaking of that, we go and.

[Quentin Gibson]

I also want to give a shout out to Co Deal and coach Devin over there on Colorado. One of the recruiting coaches, he one of the first dudes that hit me up and got me in tune with Colorado. Want to give a shot to code.

[Shannon Sharpe]

All right, well, Boss man, we appreciate your time, man. We're gonna keep, we gonna keep an eye on you. We'll be, we'll be following you and see hopefully in a couple years down the road, will you come back on here and say, hey, my time to see you is up. It's time to take it to the next level. So congratulations to you and your family, man, and we'll be seeing you. Thank you. Yo, thank you. That was that guy. That was Cardi. Boss man, Boss Boss man Smitty Smith. Boss man Smitty London Merit is a defensive end, 255. He's going to Colorado. He decommitted from Ohio State, going to see you. Alex McPherson. He decommitted from Oklahoma State, going to Colorado. And Quentin Gibson is a Speedster out of Fort Worth, Texas. North Crawley High School wide receiver 5 8, 165 pounds that's the four guys that are made their announcement here on Nightcap for the first time Ocho we've had high school seniors make an announcement of such magnitude. Here is the first of many, I'm sure.

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[Chad Ochocinco Johnson]

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[DJ Dramos]

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[Shannon Sharpe]

Now let's get into it. Ocho know the Lions beat the Bears 23 to 20, but that wasn't the story of the game. Caleb Williams had one of the great the second half was as good as he could possibly throw it. The plays that he made outside of the pocket, the way he threw the ball from the pocket and he had a couple of drops in there too Ojo, but that he was undeterred. He ran. Now, it wasn't smart that you try to get slick and try to, you know, stop on the dime and cut back when you're going on the bounds. Oh, we hit him.

[DJ Dramos]

We hit him in the knee.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Gone out of bounds. Don't do. Hey, don't play. They're not gonna let you get away with that. Cause they saw what Patrick Mahomes did, and they saw guys fooling before. So they gonna punish you if they get there. So just going out of bounds. But it was Caleb Williams got sacked, Ocho, when he got sacked, it was 33 seconds on the clock. They have a timeout.

[DJ Dramos]

One.

[Shannon Sharpe]

It's about. They got one. It's about to be third down. Take your time out now. You got 33 seconds, Ocho. Even if you don't get it, even if you don't, you. You still got fourth down. How do you go from 33 seconds and you keep your time out? And you want run only one plate with 33 seconds? Because if you complete the ball in bounds, Ocho, you should be able to run your field goal unit on the field, get your other players off the field, right? With 18 seconds. Yeah, they had. So even a play only lasts what, 5, 6, 7. Let's just say for the sake of argument, Ocho, we gonna say the play last 10 seconds, right? Caleb Williams scrambled around. It took him 10 seconds. You still have 23 seconds to get your field goal unit on the field, to get your other guys off the field. That's more than enough time to get the ball, snap, get it held, get it down, and get a kick up.

[DJ Dramos]

Honestly, uncle, and I mean no disrespect, I'm all for people having a job. I think it's very important to have a job. But that was coaching malpractice. Not only that was coaching malpractice. I think he must have been betting against the odds out there in goddamn Vegas for not calling that goddamn timeout. You know, that is a fireable offense. And I'm absolutely stand on my soapbox and say that someone should be fired. But for them to have lost the last five, I think, what, five or six games, and this is a game that you had an opportunity to win or at least tie and go into overtime and see what you could do in overtime. I can't believe, you know, coach did that, that he didn't call the timer. And also on Caleb Williams, understand you have to have better clock management in your head if your coach is not on point. The way he should be and really being on top of the time and how much time you have left. Caleb Williams, as a player who's played at the big level out there at usc, you should understand how much time is on the clock and what you need to do in those situations to make sure it doesn't happen again. So this is, for one, the coach. You should already know. You should already know. This is coaching malpractice. But Kayla Williams, this is a situation, if it ever comes up again during your tenure in the NFL, understand clock management and how important it is to give your team a chance to either tie or win a game. That's a bunch of bullshit, man.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Keenan Allen said something very interesting.

[DJ Dramos]

Oh, yeah, that's a good.

[Shannon Sharpe]

I don't know if you said it.

[DJ Dramos]

Was a good shot. No, wait, which one?

[Shannon Sharpe]

Keenan Allen said, as players, we played well enough to win this game.

[DJ Dramos]

Bingo. That's a good shot. Think about what he's saying. Think about the underlying tone and what he's saying.

[Shannon Sharpe]

I know the underlying tone.

[DJ Dramos]

I just hope.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Look, if I. If I met April Flooce, if I'm ever Flo, I would have just took the fine and I'm not talking to the media after that.

[DJ Dramos]

Right?

[Shannon Sharpe]

Because then he gets up there and says that bull jive that we got what we wanted and I'm good with it. That's ridiculous. You sound foolish. It sounds like a man that know he made some made a mistake and want to die on that heel instead of say, God, that's on me. That's on me. I should have called a timeout with 33 seconds.

[DJ Dramos]

Right.

[Shannon Sharpe]

What's wrong with how you run one plate? Right. With 33 seconds is absolutely a fireable offense. And I never advocated for anyone to lose their job.

[DJ Dramos]

Right.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Because I understand how precious jobs are. But you can't continuously make the mistakes that he's making.

[DJ Dramos]

Right.

[Shannon Sharpe]

And remain in that position and then come out there and give those bull job excuses or those bull job answers to why it's played out. It's too many times. There's a reoccurring theme that if you notice. Ocho. Yeah. Anytime they put a receiver in, it's always a new receiver. It's always somehow the ball finding or they put a new DB in. Somehow the ball always goes his way. You watch it in baseball. The ball somehow always will find him. Basketball, a new guy comes in, somehow the ball. Damn. We want the ball to end up in your hands with the last second, but damn, here we are. It keeps coming down. Ocho to plays like this when you have to understand the situation that your team is in and you have to make split second decisions. He let his team down more times than not.

[DJ Dramos]

Yeah, most definitely. Listen. And decision makers like that is the difference between not winning, not. Not losing the past five games.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Yes.

[DJ Dramos]

The seconds like that. Listen. It's a game of interest. It's a game of inches. And the coaching is one of the reasons why teams win. That's the. What do you think the difference is in the Detroit Lions before Dan Campbell got there and the Detroit Lions while he is there? That's coaching. That's coaching. That's all it comes down to being able to execute the plays. I know some of it is on the players, but also the coaching, it has to come together and work as one. But you can't be coaching like that. You know that and having a situation like that and want to say the excuse you use and not take accountability. How you think your players feel?

[Shannon Sharpe]

Yeah.

[DJ Dramos]

Like just listen. Listen to what Kenan Allen said. Players don't normally react to a game like that and don't coach under the bus. There's a disconnect. There's a complete disconnect in the locker room.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Ain't no disconnect. They don't. They've lost confidence in their head coach. Because the thing is with situational football you have to practice certain situations. You have to practice fourth down, you have to practice two minutes, you have to practice no huddle. You have to practice being in certain situations. So therefore, if you're in that situation, you'll know how to respond. We practice running the field goal unit on the field, we getting off the field and it's with 18 seconds. So we practice certain situations, get out of bounds, make sure you try to get the ball to the official. Don't aim all that, don't throw the ball because hey, look, they're not receivers, they're old. Hand them the ball. Yeah, I just don't get it. And like I said, I don't. I don't. Jimmy Johnson said and said in 70 years of being around coaching, he's never seen the level of dysfunction that the Bears have right now. And I can't say that I disagree with it because it's a reoccurring. If Ocho is week after week, I can see if it's a one time thing. Ojo, that's an accident.

[DJ Dramos]

Right. But this is, you know, you know what else? And on top of, and speaking on top of what Jimmy Johnson said, he said she'd never seen any kind of dysfunction. You know, it's just not this year. It's just not this year. You're trying to change the culture in Chicago in general. The culture, the winning culture in Chicago has been going for a very long time. It's been going for a very long time. And being able to contend and compete year in and year out on a consistent basis. All that starts at the top and in the middle. It starts for the coach and then it lingers into the players. So until you get that middle ground the right way, everything else is going to falter. And it starts with little. Like today it. It might be little, you know, because it's one game, but it affects the entirety of a season because bad decisions will continue to be made.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Oh, Joe. I don't know what they said, but normally when we went on, we would go on the field, especially it's the last drive. We got two timeouts. We got one timeout. We got no time out. If you can get the ball out of bounds.

[DJ Dramos]

Yeah.

[Shannon Sharpe]

All things being equal, we'll take a five yard gain and get out of bounds as opposed to a 10 yard game and not get out of bounds. So we've already. We've already gone through situations that we could potentially see in a game.

[DJ Dramos]

Yeah.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Because there's only one way to handle the situation. It's just like everything else. But you practice first down, you practice second down, you practice third down, you practice goal line and red zone. Okay. There are certain situation. Now, now, you can't practice everything ojo. But hopefully you play football long enough, you'll know with 33 seconds and you got a timeout after a sack, you automatically take a time out. I don't know what Eva Flutes was even thinking.

[DJ Dramos]

The funny thing about that's the first.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Thing you do because the official is standing right there by you.

[DJ Dramos]

Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah.

[Shannon Sharpe]

And that's the side judge. He right. Hey, time out. Time.

[DJ Dramos]

And the funny thing about it is, is you could have ran. You could have ran. You could have ran that play right now. You could have called that timeout. Ran. Ran another play. And I'm not sure what your signal was. Unk. Where the special team is already ready. And we used to yell, fire, fire, fire, fire.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Yeah.

[DJ Dramos]

Hurry hurries up. There's enough time on the clock. There'll be enough time on the clock. You come out and you kick the field goal. And hopefully before the clock hits zero, you have them execute that field goal and tie the game and take it into overtime. And then boom. Now you got a fresh start and hoping you can get down there and score. That's even ball game at that point. But you don't even get damn chance.

[Shannon Sharpe]

And they had the momentum. They had played extremely well last yesterday. They had the momentum in the ball game. I thought Detroit got away from running the football. There's another Ocho. At some point in time, you're going to have to start making excuses for Jameson Williams. You gotta stop. You've gotta stop making excuses for it.

[DJ Dramos]

Oh, the fumble.

[Shannon Sharpe]

No, that's give the hitting the guy in the face with the football that's standing on the sidelines.

[DJ Dramos]

Oh, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah.

[Shannon Sharpe]

He almost cost his team.

[DJ Dramos]

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

[Shannon Sharpe]

That's the kind of. See, that's the kind of. The immaturity I'm trying to figure out. What could the guy possibly. He on the sideline. Bro, why you talking. You not even in the game. Let that sink in for a second. You not even in the game and you talking right? Get in the game first and then I'll address you. I ain't addressing nobody on the sideline.

[DJ Dramos]

Right.

[Shannon Sharpe]

What made it even more egregious is that it was after the play, so the down already counted. So now they back you up 15 yards. And then he gets to the sideline and he's arguing with Antoine Randall, trying to explain what he did. Bro, shut up. There's no offer with no explanation. In the words of the great Billie Holiday function, I don't explain. What are you trying to hold up?

[DJ Dramos]

Hey, in the great version, who. What you know about Billie Holiday?

[Shannon Sharpe]

I'm trying to figure. I'm trying to figure out Ocho. What's his explanation?

[DJ Dramos]

Right.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Everybody saw what you did. He said something. You turned and flipped the ball in his face. You lucky he run and put his foot in your ass.

[DJ Dramos]

Yeah. Hey, I got a question for you. Now that we talked to the Bears, now I understand what Jameson Williamson did. You know, I'm going to talk to Young Bull. I got Young Bull. I got Young Bull on the line too. So I'm going to talk to him. And you can't do that. You can't cause your team, especially as well as y'all are doing right now. But what you think about chat. Y'all tell me what y'all think now. What you think about Bill Belichick to the Bears? I think wherever Bill Belichick goes, as long as they have a defense and a quarterback that you can work with. Caleb Williams is a quarterback that you can work with. He's Someone that you can win with based on his skill set and what he can do. What you think about it? Because what I'm gonna do on two on Wednesday when we, when we do inside NFL, I'm gonna bring it up on the show. Bill, what do you think about your opportunity and having a coaching job in Chicago? There's a defense, a very, a very adequate defense that you can work with. One of the better corners in the league in Jalen Johnson, who's. That's my little nephew. You got a quarterback that you can develop and mold and understanding what it takes to win. I mean who says no to that? Then you have an organization that's going to give you the keys. They're going to give you the keys because you have an understanding on what it takes to win, what it takes to build a winning team. Here you got six, seven Super Bowls. You also, you want to go get that, that, that, that coaching record from Don Shuler. You want to break that right now, boom. You have organization going to get the keys and allow you to build the team you need to build to be able to contend and compete in that nfc. Why not take it?

[Shannon Sharpe]

Yeah, because that, that, that division ain't. This is what, this is what even flu. When he addressed after the game he said I hope was that we re rack that play at 18 seconds, throw it in bounds, get into field goal range and then call our final time out. You see Ocho, he doesn't understand. You don't need to call a timeout with 18 seconds. That's more than enough time to get your field goal unit on and off the field.

[DJ Dramos]

Way more. Way more. That's the same.

[Shannon Sharpe]

That was where we was in our decision making process on that. We were outside of field goal range, no jive Sherlock and needed to get a few more yards in there. As close as we can get. We're going to call timeout. That's why we held the last time. So in other words, now you go into next week. You got four timeouts in the first half. Oh no, you can't use that timeout disappointed for our players. They put a lot of work on in on a short week and put themselves in position to win that game. They did and you denied them that. You that part you got right On a short week. Our players, we didn't play the best first half. What we played an outstanding second half and we put ourselves in position to win the game. And my boneheaded play, my bone headed situation awareness lacked it like constant a game more games are lost Than one in the NFL. Exhibit A. I like to. I would like to present this, your honor. Exhibit A of how games are lost.

[DJ Dramos]

Yeah, man.

[Shannon Sharpe]

I don't get it. I don't. I don't. I don't. I don't get how he continuously finds himself. If you notice, Ocho, like I said, when you make bonehead plays.

[DJ Dramos]

Yeah.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Somehow you always find yourself in that situation week after week until you correct it, until you rectify said situation. Yeah, bro. Call the time out, Ocho. Call the time out. You can run. Like I said, if the. If the play only cost you 8 seconds, I gave you 10 on the long end. Hopefully you. Caleb understands that you can't run around, but I just. I don't. I don't get it. And I said it in real time. I was like, what is he thinking? What the hell was he thinking? Why would you not call a timeout with 33 seconds left? I don't know.

[DJ Dramos]

Every. Everybody said the same thing again. It's coaching malpractice. It made me think he had money on the game to do something like that, to not even give your team, your team a chance to win. Especially with what you've been through week in and week out with the losing, the close games, the games you played. Well, I mean, like, come on, man, give yourself a chance. There. There are multiple scenarios when you're down in that situation that should already be going and be planning ahead, not just the one you explained at the goddamn podium. There are multiple scenarios that you should play on. Okay, what do I need to do? Split decision, fast decision making. You know, if, if, if, if you don't have it, then your quarterback gotta have it. But your quarterback is supposed to be learning from you. So if you ain't got it and you the head man, nigga, how he's supposed to know it. But that's neither here nor there. Caleb will know and have a better understanding of. Of time, you know, and how much time you have to use, you know, as he gets older and a little bit more mature in the NFL and understanding.

[Shannon Sharpe]

Explain that to him. Let him know, hey, we got one time out, Caleb. So, hey, if you get sacked, don't be afraid to. Let's not be afraid to use that timeout.

[DJ Dramos]

Yeah.

[Shannon Sharpe]

The Lions knocked their first Thanksgiving win in eight years. Jerry Groff threw two touchdowns to Sam LaPorta. Golf, 21 to 34, 2212 touchdown. While the Detroit ground game led by Montgomery. And Gibbs ran for 194 yards on 37 carries. Yeah, they look, they got, I mean that first, that third quarter went by so quick. It was like Chicago got a possession, scored a touchdown, Detroit got a possession, scored a touchdown, and Chicago ran two more plays and a quarter was over.

[DJ Dramos]

Yeah.

[Shannon Sharpe]

So what you needed because what Chicago, the Lions couldn't get off the field on third down. Ocho right, they get him in third long, it didn't matter. Caleb Williams made some great throws, guys ran great routes, guys got open.

[DJ Dramos]

Yeah.

[Shannon Sharpe]

And Detroit couldn't get them off the field on third down. And so tick, tick, tick, you keep your offense off the field. Now they, they get out of sync and the next thing you know, Chicago makes this game close. Probably should have went to overtime at worst case scenario and we see what happens in there. But Chicago, the players played well enough, but it was their coach that made a bonehead decision that cost him the game. The volume Good sleep should come naturally. And with the new Natural Hybrid mattress, it can. A collaboration between Leesa and West Elm, the Natural Hybrid is expertly crafted from natural latex, natural wool and certified safe foams to elevate your sleep sanctuary and support a greener tomorrow. Breathable organic cotton and moisture wicking Joma wool consistently provide cool and comfortable slumber. Every purchase helps fuel Leesa's work with shelters and those in need. Visit Leesa.com to learn more.

[DJ Dramos]

That's Leesa.com what's Poppin Justin Jefferson here Football is a lot of explosions, a lot of energy and attitude. It's a whole different vibe with these open earbuds. It's like you're in the moment, but also you can hear everything around you. You can be involved. To have good sound and to be so light on your ear means a lot to me, putting that music into my ears. You feel good enough to go out there and play. You turn on that switch, no one can stop you. For more, check out Bose.com we humans.

[Shannon Sharpe]

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[Shannon Sharpe]

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