New Heights with Jason & Travis Kelce - Episode 105 Summary

Release Date: October 16, 2024

Introduction

In Episode 105 of "New Heights with Jason & Travis Kelce," hosts Jason and Travis Kelce welcome special guest Pat McAfee for an engaging discussion on various NFL topics, including the Eagles' offensive struggles, the impact of bye weeks, and the nuanced roles of kickers and punters in football. The episode seamlessly blends game analysis, personal anecdotes, and insightful conversations, offering listeners a comprehensive view of life both on and off the field.

Guest Introduction: Pat McAfee [01:36 - 02:43]

The episode kicks off with an enthusiastic introduction of Pat McAfee, a renowned media personality and former NFL punter. Jason and Travis express their admiration for Pat's transition from the gridiron to media, setting the stage for a dynamic and informative conversation.

NFL Game Recaps and Analysis

1. Eagles vs. Browns:
   Jason and Travis delve into the Philadelphia Eagles' recent victory over the Cleveland Browns, discussing defensive improvements and offensive inconsistencies.

   • Jason Kelsey [37:05]: "Defense played so much better, and offensively it was sporadic but took a win always helps."

2. Bills vs. Jets:
   The conversation shifts to the Buffalo Bills' matchup against the New York Jets, highlighting Travis's tailgating experience and the electrifying atmosphere at Yankee Stadium.

   • Travis Kelsey [15:30]: "It was an exciting game at Yankee Stadium, and being a Cleveland kid there had mixed feelings."

3. Other Notable Games:
   The hosts touch upon various other games, including performances by the Packers, Cowboys' home struggles, and the Ravens' formidable defense.

   • Jason Kelsey [49:14]: "They've struggled to stop the run all year, especially against teams like the Ravens and Detroit."

Eagles' 'Constipated Offense' [39:20 - 43:01]

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to analyzing the Eagles' so-called "constipated offense." The term, coined by player Lane Johnson, reflects the team's difficulty in establishing a consistent offensive rhythm.

• Travis Kelsey [39:20]: "Lane just can pull that out of his ass. The constipated offense, great line."
• Jason Kelsey [39:22]: "It's accurate. It feels disconnected and out of rhythm."

Jason and Travis discuss factors contributing to this issue, such as game planning, execution, and player accountability. They also highlight standout performances, like A.J. Brown's impactful plays, while acknowledging areas needing improvement.

Pat McAfee on Kickers and Punters [54:26 - 85:35]

Pat McAfee engages in an in-depth conversation about the specialized roles of kickers and punters in the NFL, emphasizing their crucial yet often underappreciated contributions.

• Pat McAfee [66:31]: "It's easy to play catch, but kicking is a whole different ballgame."
• Jason Kelsey [73:42]: "How about some of the bruisers from the league?"

The trio explores the challenges kickers face, including the pressure of game situations and the technical aspects of their roles. Pat shares personal anecdotes, such as his infamous field goal attempts and the physical toll of punting.

Media Career Insights with Pat McAfee [83:01 - 91:23]

Pat McAfee discusses his transition from the NFL to a successful media career, offering valuable insights into balancing sports and media endeavors.

• Pat McAfee [84:18]: "We're in here full-time, trying to keep up with everything happening in the sports world."
• Jason Kelsey [89:07]: "How about that? Let's hand the ball off. Get this guy Breeze hall involved."

Pat reflects on his experiences with shows like "College GameDay" and his involvement with WWE, highlighting the importance of leveraging opportunities during an NFL career to pave the way for future endeavors.

Trick Plays and Game Situations [77:32 - 85:13]

The discussion transitions to the strategic use of trick plays in football, including fake punts and field goals.

• Pat McAfee [75:47]: "Anytime I got an opportunity to do something to help the team, like any of those fakes or onside kicks, that's a turnover."
• Travis Kelsey [78:45]: "We'll do some fun stuff on Thursday practices during the specialist period."

Jason and Travis share their experiences executing trick plays, such as fake field goals, and the impact these plays can have on game momentum. Pat offers his perspective on the importance of creativity and unpredictability in football strategies.

Off-field Activities and Tailgating Stories [10:29 - 32:12]

The hosts recount their recent tailgating adventures, detailing interactions with fans, unique food experiences, and memorable moments from various games.

• Jason Kelsey [23:04]: "I had to spend time with Harold Carmichael, instrumental in helping young players acclimate."
• Travis Kelsey [24:06]: "I had my first jerk beef and even tried some jerk pasta."

These stories provide a glimpse into the camaraderie and culture surrounding NFL tailgating, highlighting the sense of community among fans and players.

Notable Quotes and Highlights

Throughout the episode, several memorable quotes underscore the hosts' insights and humor:

• Travis Kelsey [39:20]: "A constipated office. I mean, that shit's in there, man."
• Pat McAfee [66:31]: "It's easy to play catch, but kicking is a whole different ballgame."

These quotes encapsulate the candid and entertaining nature of the conversation, making the episode both informative and enjoyable.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts [116:34 - End]

As the episode draws to a close, Jason and Travis express their gratitude to Pat McAfee for his participation and insights. They reiterate the importance of passion and dedication in both sports and media careers.

• Jason Kelsey [116:14]: "Thank you so much to Pat McAfee for coming on. I can't tell you how electric that was."
• Travis Kelsey [116:29]: "Pat McAfee, ladies and gentlemen. You're the greatest dog."

The hosts sign off by encouraging listeners to subscribe, follow on social media, and take advantage of exclusive content through Wondery+.

Key Takeaways

• Eagles' Offensive Challenges: The term "constipated offense" aptly describes the Eagles' struggle to maintain offensive momentum, necessitating strategic adjustments.

• Role of Kickers and Punters: Kickers and punters play pivotal roles in football, requiring specialized skills and facing unique pressures that are often overlooked.

• Media Transition: Pat McAfee's successful shift from the NFL to media underscores the importance of preparing for life beyond football by leveraging opportunities during an athlete's career.

• Community and Culture: Tailgating stories highlight the deep-rooted community and cultural aspects of NFL fandom, emphasizing the bond between players and fans.

Final Thoughts

Episode 105 of "New Heights" offers a rich blend of game analysis, personal stories, and expert insights, making it a must-listen for NFL enthusiasts. The candid conversations between Jason, Travis, and Pat provide a unique perspective on the intricacies of football, both on the field and in players' personal lives.