Hour 4: Hockey Talk

Summary

Podcast Summary: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg – Hour 4: Hockey Talk

Release Date: January 23, 2025

Hosts: Don LaGreca, Alan Hahn, Peter Rosenberg

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1. Rangers vs. Flyers Game Analysis

The episode kicks off with an in-depth analysis of the New York Rangers' recent performance against the Philadelphia Flyers at Madison Square Garden. Peter Rosenberg initiates the discussion by highlighting the Rangers' momentum:

Peter Rosenberg (00:48): "Nine straight. And you got two on the board here against the Flyers team. They again, you know, they're a heavy team, but winnable game, of course."

Don LaGreca concurs, examining the Rangers' standings and playoff implications:

Don LaGreca (01:44): "The Rangers, right now, if you look, the Devils are the three in the Metropolitan Division, so to get you out of the wild card. And The Rangers are 10 points back in New Jersey, but a lot of ground, but they've got three games in hand."

The hosts discuss the Rangers' potential to climb the standings, emphasizing their games in hand and the competitive landscape of the Metropolitan Division.

2. Goaltending Spotlight: Shesterkin vs. Markstrom

A significant portion of the conversation centers around the Rangers' stellar goaltender, Igor Shesterkin, and the New Jersey Devils' Markstrom injury. Peter Rosenberg praises Shesterkin's performance:

Peter Rosenberg (02:03): "Shosturkin's playing 164 minutes without allowing a goal. He hasn't lost in regulation since coming back from his injury."

Don LaGreca adds context to Markstrom's injury and its impact on the Devils:

Don LaGreca (03:14): "Markstrom, like you said, is gonna be out. So the Devils starting goaltender might be out for the next month."

They delve into the implications of Markstrom’s knee injury, discussing the prognosis and how it affects the Devils' chances in the ongoing season.

3. Playoff Prospects and Division Standings

The hosts analyze the Rangers' position relative to other teams in the Metropolitan Division:

Don LaGreca (02:26): "Boston, I don't like the Bruins. They can't score either. And Posternach's not having the year that he had last year."

They discuss the dynamics within the division, touching upon teams like Boston, Montreal, Senators, and the Columbus Blue Jackets, assessing the Rangers' ability to outperform these contenders and secure a favorable playoff spot.

4. J.T. Miller Trade Rumors

A significant segment addresses the swirling rumors surrounding J.T. Miller's potential trade to the Rangers. Peter Rosenberg references insights from Elliot Friedman regarding Miller's status:

Peter Rosenberg (08:15): "Latest from Elliot Friedman... J.T. Miller, in early in the day, was gonna be a healthy scratch. It hit a snag. I don't know what that snag is."

Don LaGreca speculates on the possible reasons behind the trade complications, such as compensation issues:

Don LaGreca (02:58): "I think they want. What I think the snag is, you're right, is about how much money did the. Do the Rangers want the Canucks to eat off his contract?"

They debate the merits of acquiring Miller, considering his past performance and the potential cost in terms of assets like Philip Heidel or Braden Schneider.

5. Matt Rempe’s Role and Discipline Issues

The conversation shifts to Matt Rempe, focusing on his dual role as an enforcer and a contributing forward. Don LaGreca emphasizes the importance of Rempe's offensive contributions:

Don LaGreca (05:16): "If Rempe is going to give you 10 minutes and he's going to score and he's going to be involved and he's not going to take a dumb penalty or get suspended, well, now you can roll four lines and be a legit, you know, forward team."

Peter Rosenberg discusses Rempe's struggle with discipline on the ice:

Peter Rosenberg (06:48): "But eventually he's gotta learn that there's a time and place and I don't need to see two numbers. I can't deliver a hit just to get the crowd going."

They explore the balance between physicality and skill, underscoring the necessity for Rempe to avoid unnecessary penalties to maintain his role within the team.

6. Devils’ Season and Markstrom’s Injury Impact

Further discussion on the Devils’ performance highlights their inconsistent season and the potential long-term effects of Markstrom's injury:

Don LaGreca (09:18): "It looked really bad."

Peter Rosenberg (09:49): "Don the Four nations, obviously he won't be able to play in that, but if you're the Devils, you feel like, okay, a sprain is something that you can get him back in, you know, in March and hope that he'll be fine in time for the playoffs."

They assess the Devils' remaining schedule, factoring in the Four Nations tournament and its effect on their ability to recover from the setback.

7. Listener Interaction: Baseball Insights with James

Transitioning to listener calls, James discusses Pete Alonso's future with the Mets. The hosts engage in a dialogue about the Mets' strategy in retaining homegrown talent versus seeking higher offers:

James (11:31): "I really think a Peter Lonzo reunion with the Mets makes a ton of sense."

Peter Rosenberg (12:35): "See, that's, that's a lot to give up."

The conversation delves into the complexities of player contracts and team budgeting, weighing the benefits of retaining Alonso against market pressures.

8. Listener Interaction: Football Talk with Stephen

Stephen brings up the New York Jets and their coaching decisions, drawing parallels to successful strategies in other NFL teams. The hosts analyze the potential impact of hiring former successful coaches and quarterback prospects:

Stephen (17:00): "Ryan, a coach who had seen success in San Francisco, comes to a team he played at, wants to be there and built a successful team."

Peter Rosenberg (19:14): "It's a little secret that you're just hoping becomes that surprise piece because it was a smart little draft."

They discuss quarterback options like Jordan Travis versus established names like Aaron Rodgers, considering the team's future prospects.

9. Super Bowl Predictions and Football Insights

The hosts briefly touch upon upcoming football events, including Super Bowl predictions. Don LaGreca shares his confident outlook on the Chiefs' performance:

Don LaGreca (21:11): "I like the... I told you that the winner of Bill's Ravens is winning the Super Bowl. Why would I change my mind?"

Peter Rosenberg counters with betting odds and potential game outcomes:

Peter Rosenberg (22:00): "It opened at that, so. And six and a half for the Commander's Eagles. Six and a half."

They debate the likelihood of Chiefs versus Eagles success, incorporating personal biases and statistical insights.

10. Concluding Remarks and Future Topics

As the episode wraps up, the hosts reflect on the day's discussions, expressing anticipation for upcoming games and future episodes. They highlight the interconnectedness of different sports and the importance of strategic team management across leagues.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Peter Rosenberg (00:48): "Nine straight. And you got two on the board here against the Flyers team."
• Don LaGreca (01:44): "The Rangers are 10 points back in New Jersey, but a lot of ground, but they've got three games in hand."
• Don LaGreca (05:16): "If Rempe is going to give you 10 minutes and he's going to score and he's going to be involved..."
• Peter Rosenberg (06:48): "But eventually he's gotta learn that there's a time and place..."
• James (11:31): "I really think a Peter Lonzo reunion with the Mets makes a ton of sense."
• Don LaGreca (21:11): "I like the... I told you that the winner of Bill's Ravens is winning the Super Bowl."

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Key Takeaways

• Rangers' Playoff Hopes: Strong performance from Igor Shesterkin boosts Rangers' chances, but Markstrom's injury poses challenges for the Devils.

• Trade Dynamics: J.T. Miller's potential acquisition by the Rangers is complicated by contract negotiations and required compensation.

• Player Development: Matt Rempe’s dual role as an enforcer and contributor is pivotal, contingent on maintaining discipline to avoid penalties.

• Listener Engagement: The show effectively incorporates listener perspectives on baseball and football, adding depth to the primary hockey discussions.

• Strategic Insights: Conversations underscore the importance of team strategy, player management, and the delicate balance between physicality and skill in hockey.

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This episode of "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" provides a comprehensive look into the current state of the NHL, particularly focusing on the Rangers' strategies and challenges. Through engaging discussions and listener interactions, the hosts offer valuable insights into team dynamics, player performances, and the broader implications for the upcoming playoff seasons across multiple sports.

Transcript

[Don LaGreca]

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[Peter Rosenberg]

All right, 6:00 hour. Remember, Rangers hockey, bottom of the hour. Rangers Flyers tonight at the Garden. Old school. Love that. 800 now 193776 is the number. So how we do a little game time? Brought to you by Tulla Mardu Irish Whiskey. Because when it's game time, it's Tully time. Rangers Flyers tonight. Don and we had talked about this earlier, but, you know, still. Again. All right, so was it points in? Eight straight, right?

[Don LaGreca]

Points in. What's up? 613.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Nine straight. And you got two on the board here against the Flyers team. They again, you know, they're. They're a heavy team, but winnable game, of course. And Igor's starting to come around now and looking like that guy that we have seen be good enough to be the best goalie in the league. And I want to ask you this off of watching last night's Devils game. So their starting goaltender is a. Markstrom gets. That's a terrible injury. Now, nothing official yet on what happened, but that knee twisted bad into that post. And Sheldon Keefe said it's going to be a little while before we know exactly the extent the Devils have. Kind of. That was a good win for them last night.

[Don LaGreca]

It was.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But, you know, they have sort of been teetering a little bit here. They haven't had the, like a great December, not a great January. Yeah, well, they did last night that second period, they broke open. But, you know, I mean, there's certainly opportunity here for the Rangers to get themselves back into where you start to say, okay, this team can still make some noise.

[Don LaGreca]

Well, the Rangers, right now, if you look, the Devils are the three in the Metropolitan Division, so to get you out of the wild card. And The Rangers are 10 points back in New Jersey, but a lot of ground, but they've got three games in hand.

[Peter Rosenberg]

That's big.

[Don LaGreca]

They do play them in April.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Well, they need to win that to split.

[Don LaGreca]

And Markstrom, like you said, is gonna be out. So the Devils starting goaltender might be out for the next month. Now the Devils catch a break because in February we're gonna have the four nations. Four nations. And that's gonna gobble up 18 days. That obviously will be games the Devils won't play, but we've got games up until then, so they might be able to gain some ground. And one of the teams that are ahead of the Rangers, Boston, I don't like the Bruins. They've.

[Peter Rosenberg]

They looked terrible last night.

[Don LaGreca]

Well, they're. Well, it's all about Posternach, right? They can't score either. And Posternach's not having the year that he had last year. So, you know, Rangers, I think, can skip by them. Montreal, I love what they're doing. Martin St. Louis has done a great job there, but I don't know how sustainable it is. And you got the, You've got the, the Senators and the Columbus Blue Jackets right now, or the two wild card teams, you know, tell me the Rangers can't be better than them if they're playing on top of their game. So let's see. And these J.T. miller rumors are really swirling.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Okay?

[Don LaGreca]

Now, if. In case you missed it, Elliot Friedman, who's as tapped in in the NHL as Adam Schefter is the NFL, said that on Saturday, J.T. miller, in early in the day, was gonna be a healthy scratch. He was on his way to the Rangers. It hit a snag. I don't know what that snag is.

[Peter Rosenberg]

It's gotta be compensation.

[Don LaGreca]

Well, I think they want. What I think the snag is, you're right, is about how much money did the. Do the Rangers want the Canucks to eat off his contract? Just signed a contract up there. I think it's probably going to be Philip Heidel, which I'm fine with, because as good as Heidel is, he's got that concussion situation, he gets hurt a lot. You're probably going to have to give up Braden Schneider, maybe a pick, but J.T. miller is a guy that a few years ago had 99 points. A couple of years ago at 103, he's a center. And I know Ranger fans will be like, well, we had him. Yeah, but when you had him, he wasn't this. Now he's this, right? And I'd hate to give up Schneider, but you got to give to get. And he could be a dynamic forward that can maybe get him over the top. And I'm not in a rush to do it, necessarily. You got. March 7th is the deadline, so they can still get this done. Maybe it'll be after the four nations, maybe before, but the way they're playing right now, the way Shosturkin's playing 164 minutes without allowing a goal. He's. He hasn't lost in regulation since coming back from his injury. Lafreniere scoring, Cooley scoring. They're playing their best hockey since the beginning of the season. Let's see if they can follow this through, get a win tonight, close some ground and get the job done.

[Peter Rosenberg]

And let me follow up on something that I asked you yesterday, coming off the win they had against Columbus, and that is the Matt Rempe of it all. You know, he has the goal. He shows off the silky mitts. I mean, that's a. That's a. That's a good moment for him because, you know, let's be honest, like, Rempe has become a bit of a novelty with the Rangers and the Ranger fans, they just. They want to see the guy that can hit people in the face, and they find it funny. But I think it was always important for him to show that he could be out on the ice and contribute more than just intimidation and physicality. And while the intimidation, physicality is still a very good quality that you do need still in the NHL, that goal said something. And you know what he does, especially at home, he does get the crowd buzzing. It does put some energy in the building. How important was that moment for him? And when there was a scrum, he wasn't involved. He actually was just smiling, looking around like, all right, who I got to protect? Everybody seems to be paired up.

[Don LaGreca]

It's big because if you watch the Rangers as much as I do, you understand the importance of that fourth line and that fourth line contribute. Carrick has been one of the biggest bargains you can get. I mean, almost nothing on his contract, and he's contributed tremendously. Enstrom is a monster, and he's been good. He's got some goals here recently, but they're not going to really be able to contribute unless all three can go out there and play. And if you start breaking up lines and shifting guys around because you're playing with 11 forwards and instead of 12, that's not good for anybody. So if Rempe is going to give you 10 minutes and he's going to score and he's going to be involved and he's not going to take a dumb penalty or get suspended, well, now you can roll four lines and be a legit, you know, forward team.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yes.

[Don LaGreca]

Now, he's been down this road before, and then usually something happens that sets him back where the coach doesn't trust him.

[Peter Rosenberg]

It's the discipline eventually has to break through with him. To know. And a lot of the tough guys, I've covered this sport for a long time. A lot of the tough guys do struggle with that borderline of bring physicality. But don't take a dumb penalty, right? Don't do something at the wrong moment. Don't get goaded into something where now you take a roughing penalty when you didn't need to because your ego got involved. A lot of these guys come in and they're throwing fists and everybody loves it and they feel like, okay, everybody loves it when I fight, I'm gonna fight everybody. And then you realize, okay, I don't have to fight anybody anymore, I gotta play hockey. And every now and then if somebody's getting out of line, okay, then I'm gonna let them know. And you know, it took guys a while to do that. I mean, Ryan Reaves is a perfect guy for him to learn from guys like that.

[Don LaGreca]

Well, Ryan Reaves hardly fought when he was here because nobody wanted to fight him.

[Peter Rosenberg]

That's my point though.

[Don LaGreca]

People will fight Rempe. I mean, he's not unbeatable. He's a big monster, but he's not unbeatable.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But eventually he's gotta learn that there's a time and place and I don't need to see two numbers. I can't deliver a hit just to get the crowd going.

[Don LaGreca]

And so like I said, he's been in this situation before and then he'll take a dumb penalty and he gets nailed to the Ben the third period, he's starting to get a little time, a little bit more time played almost 10 minutes the other game. Eventually you'll get to a point. You do this for several games that if you do make a mistake, Lavioletto still trust you. But right now you go against the Flyers, 2, 2 tie late in the second period and he does something stupid that causes a five minute major and cost you the game. Then he's in trouble. Remember, one of the reasons he's been in the lineup is they haven't lost in regulation since he came off his suspension. So there's something to that. You know, coaches don't like to change lineups when the teams win.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Superstition.

[Don LaGreca]

But the second he commits a dumb penalty, only cost him a game. He will be a healthy scratch the next game and then you're starting from scratch. So let's see if he could do it. Fans still love him. It is something about a player like that the fans really gravitate to. It's a great story. And he's a great kid. He's easy to talk to. He wants to do well.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah. And the crowd, there is something about when you play at home and there's a player that the crowd loves and he gets on the ice, the bench feels it, the building wakes up, you get a little bit of that buzz and I think that does help.

[Don LaGreca]

And listen, if he doesn't, that means you get a little bit more room because nobody's going to take liberties knowing they're going to have to deal with him.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Latest from Elliot Friedman. Since you brought him up, he did a blog yesterday about everything and so his update on the Rangers when it comes to J.T. miller. So the Hurricanes and the Rangers both have permission to talk with him about, I guess contract extensions going forward. The belief is the offer from New York was heedle a first rounder and a prospect. And see, that's, that's heavy.

[Don LaGreca]

That's interesting because now you're talking about Othman, you're talking about Perot. That's. That's a lot to give up.

[Peter Rosenberg]

That's a lot. Yeah. By the way, Kevin Weeks.

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I'm told the Devils feared it would be worse, but hearing when it comes to Markstrom, it's a knee sprain. That's significant. So he'll miss some time, of course. But as you mentioned, Don the Four nations, obviously he won't be able to play in that, but if you're the Devils, you feel like, okay, a sprain is something that you can get him back in, you know, in March and hope that he'll be fine in time for the playoffs. So it could have been a lot worse because that looked bad.

[Don LaGreca]

It looked really bad.

[Peter Rosenberg]

He went down and the way that.

[Don LaGreca]

Knee twisted and you just wondered if that was going to be, you know, it for the season, that kind of injury. Yeah, I'm just trying to look up the. The Four nations begins on February 12th. So the last games because of they got to travel, not the big travel, it's Montreal and Boston are where those games are going to be played. I think the Rangers last game is the eighth, so it's probably like eighth or ninth, the Devil's last game. So they probably will have be without his services for the next, you know, maybe three weeks.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Three weeks.

[Don LaGreca]

And then you figure after 18 days off of the Four nations, you're looking.

[Peter Rosenberg]

For, you're looking four to six on a sprain, especially for a goalie, right?

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

DPH would know this better than anybody. But I'm thinking four to six has got to be the Length.

[Don LaGreca]

All right, well then you got more than two weeks before nations. So you have what, three weeks here and then another two weeks. So if it ends up being the four to six, if it's like more towards the four range, then when they come back from four nations, he'll be back. Okay, how many games the Devils have I'd have to look up to see. And obviously you don't play every game as a goaltender, but the number of games the Devils will have in that span, 1, 2, 3, DDD. Then you go to February 3, 4, 5, 6, 7. So it's a possibility he'll be unavailable for seven games. Allen was probably going to play in at least one of them anyway. So you end up missing five, six games. That's not the end of the world.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Listen, again, if you saw it last night and you were watching it live, you. If I told you he's only going to miss about seven games, I think you take it. 800 now a 9 3-776-James. Oh, wait, by the way, that was of course game time. Brought to you by Tullamore Dew. And I'm gonna let Dave Maloney take it from here. If I could just get. There we go. Well, when it's game time, it's Tully time. The second period puck drop. Brought to you by Tullamore Dew. Irish Whiskey. The original triple distilled, triple blended and triple cask matured Irish whiskey. Be sure to grab a Tullamore Dew or try the all new Tullamore Dew honey during tonight's action. He's the best.

[Don LaGreca]

It's not. He's gone more over the top.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah. A little more brogue to it. Okay, well that still pretty good.

[Don LaGreca]

That was good.

[Peter Rosenberg]

James in Staten island, you're up next. What's up, James?

[James]

Hey guys, I want to talk about Pete Alonzo for a little bit because I know you guys been talking about some football and some hockey and I really hope the Bills do beat the Chiefs this weekend.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Another hater. Another hater.

[James]

But anyway, look, I really think a Peter Lonzo reunion with the Mets makes a ton of sense. Okay. Because you look at it this way, if the Mets have to replace Pete Alonso with Mark Vientos, we don't know if Mark fantas season was a fluke and it could be, but I'm not saying it's going to be. I just really think that the Mets have to look at it at that aspect that Pete Alonso was a homegrown talent. And you don't just throw away homegrown talent, especially when he's been your most consistent hitter, minus the last two years.

[Don LaGreca]

So what do you pay him?

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah, that's the problem.

[James]

Needs to make up his mind. And the Mets also have to make up their mind and just sign him.

[Don LaGreca]

I think the Mets have already made.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Sign them like they offered him. They offered him over 22.

[Don LaGreca]

Right.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Was not the average last year.

[Don LaGreca]

And it felt like it was insulting. But they're like, okay, we think you're worth $22 million. You can get more. Go get it. And here we sit. Blue Jays haven't signed them. Giants haven't signed them. So if he comes back to The Mets at 22. Home run. But I can understand. Listen, I'm with you. I want. I want him to stay. I want him to be a forever met. But are you willing to give him $30 million? See, I brought this up with Frank the Tank when I was doing the walk because he agrees with me that we'll miss him. But you gotta, like, kind of like the way the Mets are playing it, because there's gotta be a budget. And obviously first basemen are looked upon like running backs in baseball. Like, we want them, but we're not gonna pay a lot of money for them. And they told you he's worth $22 million. Is anybody else going to give more than that? And if they come, if Boris comes back and says, all right, we'll take your $22 million. The home run.

[Peter Rosenberg]

That's right. Yeah, Literally. Now, think about it. We've seen this play out this way before with a couple other Boris clients that we've gotten to a week before training camp. We've gotten to pitchers and catchers. Spring training's about to open and some guys aren't signed. And then you realize, like, okay, I gotta sign with somebody. And sometimes you wait out and see who has an injury or something like that. But a lot of times you don't want to do that. And so maybe if you're the Mets, you do exactly this. This is what we think he's worth. Good luck if you get something better, but we're going to keep it right here. And then you might get into spring training and he might not have a suitor, and he might just tell Scott Boris, let me just stay home. Give me that deal and give me an out. After Warner, like, you remember Blake Snell, had that, like, just. Just something like that could still work out. Or like I said, would you rather have the space to make a trade for Vlad Guerrero when that opportunity.

[Don LaGreca]

I think that's ultimately what they're looking at is that they don't want a landlock first base because of the fact that they're bringing Guerrero. They're also not going after a third baseman either. They didn't go sign Bregman, so. So because they don't want to landlock third because they're going to probably move Vientos back to third if they sign Guerrero.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah.

[Don LaGreca]

So that's. That's the game that's being played here. Now, a lot of fans don't want to hear that because that means you got kids at first and third. And maybe you take a bit of a step back this year, but the game plan is, how are you going to feel in 26 when you can build it if you've got Vlad Guerrero protecting Soto in your lineup?

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah. This is a microwave. They are going to build something that is sustainable for years. Look at the Dodgers and my God, look at the Dodgers, by the way. Well, you talk about the Chiefs and how you just sick. Like, how. How are the Dodgers not the team that you. That you want to throw up now?

[Don LaGreca]

No, you should. They're not in your face like the Yankees in New York. But no, the Dodgers have just everybody.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I mean, it's like everyone. They're shunning everyone. And did you see, by the way, the Japanese pitcher? This is why he chose the Dodgers. And he gave this whole thing about, like, the importance of a front office. Stop it. Like, just stop. Don't even put out that. Don't put out the statement. I'm not buying it. Like, that's insane.

[Don LaGreca]

Well, that might be why you chose the Dodgers over the pod, stable front.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Offices and blah, blah, blah. You realize that, like, you're like the sixth pitcher on that team. Like, they kept and.

[Don LaGreca]

But you're gonna have a chance to win.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I don't.

[Don LaGreca]

You're close to home.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Why is it to me, I have noticed that while the Yankees were once the evil empire, they hated Yankees because they just outspend you and that's just a terrible way to be and all that stuff. We had to make rules to make sure that the Yankees couldn't just sign up everybody. Right?

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah.

[Peter Rosenberg]

The Dodgers do it now and everybody's like, oh, that's great. Look at the Dodgers. They just love to win. No one is pissed off at the Dodgers like they were pissed off at the Yankees. They hated the Yankees.

[Don LaGreca]

It's getting there, though. Is it starting to get there with the Dodgers?

[Peter Rosenberg]

You know why? Here's. I'll tell you why. Because the Yankees won a lot well, yeah. And the Dodgers, how many World Series do they have? They have the summer camp one. That doesn't really count.

[Stephen]

Right.

[Peter Rosenberg]

It was a 60 game season. Let's, let's be honest, like that's a go back.

[Don LaGreca]

This is the first championship since this.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Is the first real one. Right.

[Don LaGreca]

But they turn around and win back to back. You're going to start to hear it.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah, I hope so because I want that same energy that the Yankees were getting about this before they even rules about it. Stephen and Houston. Hey, Stephen.

[Stephen]

Hey guys, thanks for taking my call. So I just wanted to say something quickly about the New York jets and Aaron Glenn. So, you know, here in Houston I feel like what's unfolding over in New York is reminding me of what happened here with Dimmy Corian. Right. So Ryan, a coach who had seen success in San Francisco, comes to a team he played at, wants to be there and built a successful team.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Also got the quarterback. That's a big deal. Him getting C.J. stroud changed everything.

[Stephen]

Well, that's kind of where I'm coming to. Right. And so I feel like Glenn is kind of in the same fashion he's with Alliance. I've seen success and hopefully they can hire a good gm. But I want to, I want to list out a few names. So I think you guys are talking about Aaron Rodgers and my question is why is nobody talking about the, the backup quarterback, what's his name from Florida State over there that.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Oh, Jordan Travis.

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah. But no, every time we.

[Peter Rosenberg]

You understand he hasn't even gone on the, he hasn't been on the field.

[Don LaGreca]

No. Hasn't played. And every time we bring him up to anybody, it doesn't seem like that's a viable option right now.

[Stephen]

Here's my quick note. So here, quick names, right. Bo nicks, Marvin Harrison Jr. Penix Jr. And Jaden Daniels. And. And this kid you just talked about, these were the five kids where the Heisman in 2023, right? Yes. I think when it's just with a seven pick, if they feel strongly about a quarterback, they should move up and get a quarterback. If they don't. Right. With Jordan Travis. Because I feel like we all know it's going to be some growing pain because you never know. And I think the Aaron Rodgers story, while it's a nice idea, I think with this new coach and looking at what Houston, they're taking some bold steps and taking some high risk. I think the jets should do that. Whether it's with Jordan Travis or move up and come get one of These quarterbacks, whatever it might take because they might just be a quarterback away and a team that has a good coach right now, I think they can do what Houston did. So that's just my take again, thank you guys for taking my call.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Good stuff, Stephen. Yeah, Travis has been for Jet fans like that. It's like that little secret that you're just hoping becomes that surprise piece because it was a smart little draft. Again, he had that horrible ankle injury, he was a Heisman finalist and Florida State, they were insanely good. He gets hurt and then they got blown out. You remember a lot of people were arguing they should have made the playoff and without him they didn't deserve it. But still, it's hard to imagine a guy who hasn't literally played football in over a year, hasn't run yet, is now all of a sudden become your QB1.

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah, and plus this regime didn't draft him.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah, it's true too.

[Don LaGreca]

But as far as like the bonix and everything that you see from these young quarterbacks, I'm going to give you some stats and you tell me who it is or who you think it is, or you tell me. No, tell me if you think this is good.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Okay?

[Don LaGreca]

12 starts, 3,000 yards, 24 touchdowns, 12 interceptions. Yes, that's good.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah.

[Don LaGreca]

12 starts.

[Peter Rosenberg]

12 starts.

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah, that was Daniel Jones rookie year. All right, now they didn't win, but that was Daniel Jones rookie year. Got people thinking, hey look, I think they found something.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah, this is pretty good. And by the way, you didn't give me his rushing numbers, but remember he ran a ton early on. Didn't he run a lot his first two years?

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah, he always, he always ran very well. I'd have to find him here. Pro football doesn't make it really interesting. Rushing yards his rookie year, 279 rushing yards, two touchdowns. Not all right, 45 attempts. Yeah, but, but my, my point is, is that let's, let's pump the brakes on Bo Nix. Let's pump the brakes on the. Not Jaden Daniels. I mean obviously he's been really special this year. Yeah, but you know, everybody's like, oh did you see Penix and what he did in Atlanta? Oh, he's, he's a Camp Mist. And let's wait and see how it turns out. Because I tell you, those stats from Daniel Jones in his Rookie Year in 12 starts, 3,000 yards, 24 touchdowns, 12 interceptions, I remember thinking I think they might have found their guy. And then it just never had.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Eli comps too. I do like though the idea of D'Amico Ryan's, though, if you want to do it that way. He was the. The DC in San Francisco. There was a lot of, like, you know, excitement about what he could be going home to the team he played for. It meant something personal to him. And he has. He certainly has done a good job.

[Don LaGreca]

But how good?

[Peter Rosenberg]

They've been very competitive and in a bad. Awful.

[Don LaGreca]

I'm not going to say he hasn't done a good job. I mean, the jets would take that, right? Make the playoffs.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But again, everything's relative to what you've been. And you've been bad.

[Don LaGreca]

I just can't think that. Why can't they beat the Jets? Why can't the Houston Texans beat the Jets?

[Peter Rosenberg]

It's funny. So tomorrow, big Football Friday, right?

[Don LaGreca]

All you kids, Big Football Friday. Going into championship games.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Championship games and all like. And so we've got a lot of that to discuss. We'll have Adam Schefter on the show tomorrow as well. But, I mean, these are, you know, you really feel strongly about the Chiefs and how you're just sick and tired of them. So I imagine your interest. We got to, you know, we got to make our picks. Are you going to be emotional with your pick?

[Don LaGreca]

Why not? I'm not severing limbs or anything. Listen, I'm going to analyze. I'm going to break it down. I like the. Listen, I told you that the winner of Bill's Ravens is winning the Super Bowl. Why would I change my mind?

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah, I guess you got to stick.

[Don LaGreca]

With it, you know. But again, what's the number? I haven't even looked at the number yet.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Haven't either. It's one and a half. Yeah, I figured it's got to be that. It opened at that, so. And six and a half for the Commander's Eagles. Six and a half.

[Don LaGreca]

That's not bad.

[Peter Rosenberg]

We don't even know Hertz under a touchdown situation.

[Don LaGreca]

Yeah, that, that. Well, we'll get to find out. That number may move, obviously, if Hertz isn't ready to go.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Can we get Sal Palantonio tomorrow? I mean, he knows. He knows the Eagles better than anybody. He knows that whole thing. He was on with K today, on with Sal tomorrow. Oh, all right. Never mind.

[Don LaGreca]

Or the other way around. There are other people that know football, for Christ's sake.

[Peter Rosenberg]

But I also wonder how we feel.

[Don LaGreca]

We're all like. It's like a Stretch Armstrong dial. We're all, like, pulling at the same.

[Peter Rosenberg]

We are really in the same roller.

[Don LaGreca]

You should see what's happening with Mike Tannenbaum. Like, you know, one show's got his leg, the other show's got his arm, the other one's gone by. We're just stretching it.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Mike is so nice. He's just saying yes to everybody. And we're on everybody.

[Don LaGreca]

Well, because that's the thing that I'm telling. See, Mike T. Mike Tannenbaum now is a TV personality.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Hey, he's very good.

[Don LaGreca]

And on tv, it's like the car wash. They put him on every show. Like, you ever. I watch AB. I consume channel 7 here in New York. You know, they'll have a guest on, you know, Jesse Eisenberg to promote his movie. And he'll be on like, every show all day.

[Peter Rosenberg]

GMA. GMA.

[Don LaGreca]

GMA. Gma2, GMA3. The view. He's on every. Every show. You know, Tamron. Yeah. So Mike's like, yeah, I'll just say yes to all the. I'll be on all the shows. No, no, you're on our show.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Yeah.

[Don LaGreca]

All right, well, so we can lose the number. That's. That's what I was.

[Peter Rosenberg]

We're going to lose the number. Not on Sal Pal, though. We love.

[Don LaGreca]

No, not. Well, no, not on my Tanner.

[Peter Rosenberg]

So he's a friend with Peter. Not here. How much are you. Because you said it already. Like, you know, the Eagles will make you throw up. It's. You can't roof it. Are you sure we want two weeks of the commanders and the super.

[Don LaGreca]

I'm sorry. I have a long hatred for the Philadelphia. Goes back to the late Peter Andre.

[Peter Rosenberg]

Waters in the group chat, just so everybody knows, he's saying things like, have I told you yet how great it is to be a commander's fan?

[Don LaGreca]

No, he is irritating.

[Peter Rosenberg]

I mean, it's just like it would be insufferable two weeks leading into.

[Don LaGreca]

I just can't.

[Peter Rosenberg]

The Super Bowl. Right. Like, it just. They're going to have me get you on my side.

[Don LaGreca]

So they got Chiefs and Peter or Chiefs and Eagles. Oh, my God. Can we just fast forward?

[Peter Rosenberg]

You just don't even want to watch anymore. Dude, Wentz. Four nations again. Can we just watch that? That's what I'm going to do. Well, we know that the Rangers are coming up next. Rangers, Flyers. And your man Don legreco will have the pregame show coming up next. We'll see you all tomorrow. See you tomorrow. Don't.