Exciting Mics Episode 7 Summary: Chris Long on Super Bowls, Eagles Dog Mask Story, & More
Hosted by Reed Blankenship and Cooper DeJean, Episode 7 of "Exciting Mics" features an in-depth conversation with former NFL player and Super Bowl champion Chris Long. The episode explores Chris's upbringing, NFL career, memorable moments, and personal ventures beyond football. Below is a detailed summary capturing all key discussions, insights, and notable quotes from the episode.
1. Introduction to Chris Long
The episode begins with hosts Reed Blankenship and Cooper DeJean introducing their special guest, Chris Long, a former Philadelphia Eagle and Super Bowl champion. They highlight his achievements, including being one of six players to win back-to-back Super Bowls with different teams and his recognition as the NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year.
Cooper DeJean (02:03): "We're excited to welcome an absolute legend to the show."
Chris Long (02:24): "What's up, y'all."
2. Nicknamed "La Flama Blanco"
Cooper inquires about Chris's nickname, "La Flama Blanco."
Cooper DeJean (02:33): "What's the story behind La Flama Blanco?"
Chris Long (02:33): "It's the White Flame, which, honestly, that's pretty fitting for either one of y'all."
He references the television show "Eastbound and Down," explaining the origin of the nickname in a humorous context.
3. Family and Early Life
Chris delves into his background, discussing his upbringing in Los Angeles and Virginia. He is the eldest of three brothers, with his father, Howie Long, being an NFL legend.
Chris Long (03:50): "What was it like growing up with him as your father?"
He speaks about the balance between the pressures of living up to a legendary father and the positive aspects, such as learning hard work and humility.
Chris Long (04:07): "My dad knew everything that I was thinking coming out of a game."
4. Growing Up with Howie Long
Chris shares favorite memories, including interactions with other NFL players like Bo Jackson and Barry Sanders.
Chris Long (06:36): "I remember little things. Like, my favorite things about going to training camp was they had the Gatorade cans."
He emphasizes his father's influence on his professional and personal life, highlighting lessons in hard work and maintaining humility.
5. Life Beyond Football
When questioned about life after football, Chris reveals his entrepreneurial side, mentioning he owns a river rafting company in Virginia.
Chris Long (11:10): "I actually own a river rafting company here in Virginia."
He reflects on his athletic abilities, comparing himself modestly to his brothers while acknowledging his achievements in the NFL.
6. Super Bowl Experiences
Chris discusses his two Super Bowl victories with the New England Patriots and the Philadelphia Eagles, providing detailed accounts of both experiences.
Chris Long (14:00): "When we won in New England in 2016, it came down to Atlanta and New England for me."
He expresses more emotional attachment to the Eagles' Super Bowl win, describing it as a dream come true.
Chris Long (18:00): "After the Philly Super Bowl, I cried like a baby, man, because it was everything that I ever could have won."
7. Half-Time Comebacks and Team Dynamics
Chris recounts the infamous Super Bowl halftime comeback against Atlanta, emphasizing the importance of execution over inspirational speeches.
Chris Long (36:45): "Bill [Belichick] just came in and made it about execution."
He credits the Patriots' culture of confidence and experience in high-stakes games as pivotal to their success.
8. Transition to the Eagles and New Experiences
Upon signing with the Philadelphia Eagles, Chris describes his first impressions of the city and the passionate fan base.
Chris Long (40:23): "There’s just something special about this place, man. You guys are there."
He contrasts the experience with New England, appreciating Philadelphia's blue-collar spirit and the genuine connection with fans.
9. The "Meat Mansion" Pranks
Chris shares entertaining stories from his time in St. Louis, particularly the prank war within the team.
Chris Long (22:09): "We rented out an entire duplex and took over. It was like the biggest and best dudes on the team lived in one house."
He narrates specific pranks, such as building miniature houses around teammates' cars, showcasing the camaraderie and humor within the team.
Chris Long (29:49): "We constructed what was called DB Ville... the DB's were like, no, no, that's not my car in there."
10. Chris's Personal Podcast: Green Light Podcast
Chris discusses his own podcast, the Green Light Podcast, explaining its origins and objectives.
Chris Long (57:31): "What started for me was honestly the fear of, like, sitting still in retirement."
He emphasizes the importance of authenticity and creating a space for honest conversations about football and beyond.
Chris Long (61:07): "I want to do something where I can talk about whatever I want to, and we'll have pods where we don't talk at all about football."
11. Fan Interaction and Rapid Fire Q&A
The episode includes a segment where fans from Philadelphia and the United Kingdom ask rapid-fire questions, adding a lively and interactive element to the conversation.
Fan Colin Ewing (62:42): "What's up?"
Fan Corey Brown (64:09): "If the exciting mics are exciting, whites are going to a couple's costume party together."
The playful banter between hosts and guests showcases their chemistry and ability to engage with listeners.
12. Advice and Closing Remarks
Chris offers advice to aspiring podcasters and emphasizes the value of being authentic and having fun.
Chris Long (61:32): "I would just say just be yourselves and messy is okay, dude. Like, have some messy podcasts."
He congratulates the hosts on their podcasting efforts, encouraging them to continue their genuine and entertaining approach.
Notable Quotes
- Chris Long (04:07): "You never get full of yourself."
- Chris Long (11:10): "I actually own a river rafting company here in Virginia."
- Chris Long (14:00): "When we won in New England in 2016, it came down to Atlanta and New England for me."
- Chris Long (36:45): "Bill just came in and made it about execution."
- Chris Long (57:31): "What started for me was honestly the fear of, like, sitting still in retirement."
- Chris Long (61:32): "I would just say just be yourselves and messy is okay, dude."
Conclusion
Episode 7 of "Exciting Mics" provides listeners with an engaging and comprehensive look into Chris Long's life, both on and off the football field. From his familial influences and NFL experiences to his entrepreneurial ventures and podcasting endeavors, Chris offers valuable insights and entertaining anecdotes. The episode is enriched by the hosts' genuine interactions and Chris's candid storytelling, making it a must-listen for Eagles fans and sports enthusiasts alike.
This summary captures the essence of Episode 7 of "Exciting Mics," presenting a clear and organized overview for those who haven't listened to the episode.