Pardon My Take: Episode with Paul Bissonnette – NFL Christmas Day, Bears' Struggles, Week 17 Preview & New Year's Resolutions

Release Date: December 27, 2024

On this episode of Pardon My Take, hosts Big Cat and PFT Commenter delve into a myriad of sports topics, ranging from the dismal performance of the Chicago Bears to the intricacies of NFL playoff races. The show also features a candid interview with Paul Bissonnette, adding a personal touch to the discussions. Below is a comprehensive summary of the episode's key points, enriched with notable quotes and timestamps for reference.

1. Bears' Disastrous Standalone Game

The episode kicks off with Big Cat expressing disappointment over the Bears' performance in their standalone Thursday Night Football game against the Seahawks.

• Big Cat (02:24): "I just want to apologize to America for what they had to watch with The Bears on their final primetime game of the year. Holy shit. Was it horrific? Six to three, Seahawks win."

• The Bears' defensive struggles are highlighted, with Quincy Wilson's inability to maintain a strong first drive being a focal point.

• Big Cat (03:00): "Brian Poles did an interview before the game and said that some of the slow starts are some of the things that weren't fixed in training camp. So he's talking about training. He's blaming training camp in week 17. Fire this whole organization to the sun."

2. Potential Coaching Changes and Pete Carroll Rumors

The conversation shifts to speculation about the Bears' coaching situation, with Big Cat and PFT Commenter debating possible head coaching candidates.

• Big Cat (07:22): "John Fox all over again. At least Pete Carroll won a Super Bowl."

• PFT Commenter (08:52): "I would say the safest guy is, is Mike Vrabel, right?"

• The hosts discuss the viability of hiring Pete Carroll, emphasizing his experience and past successes, juxtaposed against the Bears' current dysfunction.

3. NFL Playoff Projections and Chiefs' Dominance

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to forecasting NFL playoff outcomes, with particular attention to the Kansas City Chiefs' commanding position.

• Big Cat (10:08): "The Chiefs have like 24 days off. I don't care what, you know, people can poke holes in the Chiefs and be like, they're not impressive because they haven't scored over 30 points and they've had a couple close calls. They're going to win the super bowl again. Just accept it."

• PFT Commenter (11:38): "They've won almost all your games, even though there were a lot of close ones. It's the Chiefs. And, like, I'm still impressed by the Chiefs because they're awesome now."

• The hosts dismiss criticisms of the Chiefs, asserting Patrick Mahomes' prowess and Andy Reid's coaching as pivotal to their success.

4. Seahawks and Steelers Outlook

The Bears' rivals, the Seahawks and Steelers, are also scrutinized regarding their playoff potential.

• Big Cat (05:00): "Fire this whole organization to the sun. I'm so sick of it. It was just a perfect, fitting end to not only the Bears playing standalone games with Thursday Night Football."

• PFT Commenter (07:56): "They decided they whooped the, out of the Steelers... they're just never to be taken seriously anymore."

• The Steelers are criticized for their inconsistent performances, despite a storied franchise history.

5. Christmas Day Games and NFL Rankings

The hosts analyze recent Christmas Day matchups, emphasizing the Chiefs' performance and the Ravens' offensive surge led by Lamar Jackson.

• Big Cat (12:43): "The CFL is solidified, but their offense is fantastic."

• PFT Commenter (12:45): "The Chiefs are unbeatable this season. Patrick Mahomes is under a second count, they're getting the ball out fast. Their running game is also impressive."

• Discussions include Lamar Jackson's record-setting passer rating and the Bills' aspirations, showcasing a blend of statistical analysis and personal opinions.

6. NBA Halftime Show and Broadcast Critique

A lighter segment touches upon the NBA's halftime show, with the hosts critiquing its execution and content.

• Big Cat (23:07): "I saw the people were mad about it online, so she probably did a good job. There was some satanic imagery..."

• The conversation humorously navigates through the absurdity of the halftime show's themes, reflecting the hosts' characteristic blend of humor and sports commentary.

7. Week 17 Picks and Previews

As the episode progresses, the focus shifts to Week 17 NFL games, with each host sharing their predictions and rationales.

• Big Cat (41:15): Discusses the Chargers vs. Patriots game, speculating on quarterbacks and defensive performances.

• PFT Commenter (43:50): "This could be the litmus test for Drake May, what will happen in this game."

• Memes contribute to the discussion, adding perspectives on teams like the Bengals and Texans, emphasizing their offensive and defensive capabilities.

8. New Year's Resolutions

In a more personal segment, the hosts share their New Year's resolutions, blending personal goals with humorous undertones.

• Big Cat (75:56): "My New Year's resolution is there's a dive bar or maybe, I don't know, like three blocks from my house that I want to try to become a regular at."

• Hank (76:03): "Go to the dentist."

• Memes (78:25): "I would like to lose a lot of weight, also learn how to make bread."

9. Interview with Paul Bissonnette

The highlight of the episode is an in-depth interview with Paul Bissonnette, who recounts his altercation with a group of Irish Travelers at a Houston restaurant.

• Paul Bissonnette (07:12): "I went to eat at a family restaurant called Houston's... these drunk Irish travelers were causing a ruckus... they started swinging... the fight went to the CVS."

• Big Cat (08:24): "You fought seven dudes in a parking lot and you held your own again. You're my hero."

• Paul details the confrontation, the ensuing legal battles, and his determination to seek justice, showcasing a blend of personal experience and advocacy against hooliganism.

10. NHL Briefing and Winter Classic Promotion

Towards the episode's end, Paul Bissonnette provides a quick overview of the NHL season and promotes the upcoming Winter Classic at Wrigley Field.

• Paul Bissonnette (107:12): Discusses the Toronto Maple Leafs' lineup, the Washington Capitals' resurgence, and the Vegas Golden Knights' depth.

• Big Cat: Highlights the event, encouraging listeners to purchase tickets and participate in the live show.

Conclusion

The episode of Pardon My Take masterfully intertwines sports analysis with personal narratives, maintaining an engaging and dynamic flow throughout. From the Bears' lamentable performance to Paul Bissonnette's heroic stand, the hosts provide listeners with a comprehensive and entertaining overview of the sports landscape as the year draws to a close.

Notable Quotes:

• Big Cat (02:24): "I just want to apologize to America for what they had to watch with The Bears on their final primetime game of the year."

• PFT Commenter (05:26): "I'll say Deflategate sanctions. Yep."

• Paul Bissonnette (07:12): "I'd heard enough... I was going to bring them into the parking lot... it was a three-minute round."

• Big Cat (07:22): "John Fox all over again. At least Pete Carroll won a Super Bowl."

• PFT Commenter (11:38): "They've won almost all your games... I'm still impressed by the Chiefs because they're awesome now."

This detailed summary encapsulates the breadth of discussions in the episode, providing listeners—both longtime fans and newcomers—with a valuable overview of the show's content.