Pardon My Take – Episode: Super Wild Card Weekend, Fastest 2 Minutes, Commanders Huge Win, Bills And Ravens Roll And Who's Back Of The Week Release Date: January 13, 2025

In this episode of "Pardon My Take," hosts Big Cat and PFT Commenter delve into the intense action of Super Wild Card Weekend, dissect standout performances, analyze team strategies, and share their insights on the NFL playoffs. Additionally, they highlight who's making waves in the week and reflect on memorable moments from recent games.

1. Super Wild Card Weekend Recap

Big Cat opens the discussion by revisiting the outcomes of the Wild Card games:

• Texans vs. Chargers (Texans 32, Chargers 12):

  • The Texans showcased a formidable defense, dominating early and maintaining control throughout the game.
  • Big Cat remarks at [09:10]: "I want to apologize to the Houston Texans because I was down on them...their defense was just so good."
  • PFT Commenter adds at [10:13]: "Their cornerbacks were good, especially Derek Stingley... their defense has been good."

• Ravens vs. Steelers (Ravens 28, Steelers 14):

  • Lamar Jackson delivered a masterful performance, leading the Ravens to a decisive victory.
  • Big Cat comments at [36:28]: "Lamar was still perfect and he killed him with his legs."

• Bills vs. Broncos (Bills 31, Broncos 7):

  • Josh Allen led a dominant offensive display, overwhelming the Broncos.
  • PFT Commenter highlights at [57:06]: "First rookie to rookie touchdown pass in postseason history."

• Eagles vs. Packers (Eagles 22, Packers 10):

  • The Eagles capitalized on turnovers and aggressive play-calling to secure the win.
  • Max notes at [77:08]: "Defense was phenomenal... Jordan Love stinks."

• Commanders vs. Bucks (Commanders 23, Bucks 20):

  • A thrilling finish saw the Commanders edge out the Bucks in a nail-biting encounter.
  • Big Cat enthuses at [98:15]: "Jaden Daniels is special... he's going to be awesome."

2. Analysis of Key Players and Performances

• Justin Herbert (Chargers):

  • Struggled with turnovers, throwing four interceptions, which significantly impacted the Chargers' performance.
  • Big Cat at [12:33]: "Justin Herbert has been in the playoffs twice now...it's not good."
  • PFT Commenter at [14:57]: "Justin Herbert is now the only player in NFL history to throw more interceptions in a playoff game than he had interceptions during the entire regular season."

• CJ Stroud (Texans):

  • Overcame early mistakes to lead the Texans, bolstered by a stellar defense.
  • Big Cat at [11:07]: "CJ Stroud throws an interception and the very next play...charged up the Texans offense."

• Lamar Jackson (Ravens):

  • Demonstrated exceptional dual-threat capabilities, making critical plays both in the air and on the ground.
  • Big Cat at [37:41]: "The Ravens are just so good and so complete them."

• Josh Allen (Bills):

  • Led the Bills with a potent offense, securing a decisive victory over the Broncos.
  • PFT Commenter at [57:06]: "Josh Allen was like, yeah, you know what I'm going to do? I'm going to run the ball down your throat."

• Jaden Daniels (Commanders):

  • Emerged as a standout rookie quarterback, leading the Commanders to their first playoff win in 19 years.
  • PFT Commenter at [100:30]: "Jaden Daniels is a good team... he just does something special."

3. Coaching Strategies and Decisions

• Mike Tomlin (Steelers):

  • Faces criticism for the Steelers' eight-year playoff drought, with defensive struggles highlighted.
  • Big Cat at [41:54]: "They have six playoff losses...their defense regressed as the season's gone along."
  • PFT Commenter at [43:52]: "He does love old guys."

• Todd Bowles (Commanders):

  • Praised for aggressive play-calling leading to the Commanders' victory.
  • Big Cat at [94:50]: "Todd Bowles is just...can’t be in those pressure moments."

• Sean McVeigh (Vikings):

  • Acknowledged for his effective halftime adjustments and overall team performance.
  • PFT Commenter at [128:25]: "Sean McVeigh knows something because on paper, you should have tried to win that Wind horse."

4. Notable Quotes and Moments

• Justin Herbert:

  • PFT Commenter at [14:57]: "Justin Herbert is now the only player in NFL history to throw more interceptions in a playoff game than he had interceptions during the entire regular season."

• Jaden Daniels:

  • Big Cat at [98:15]: "Jaden Daniels is special...he's a guy that really do believe in it."

• Ryan Day (Ohio State Coach):

  • Discussed in the context of college football's playoff system, emphasizing strategic adjustments.

5. Upcoming Games and Predictions

• Monday Night Football Preview:

  • Big Cat at [125:44]: "Who do we think is gonna win Monday football?"
  • PFT Commenter expresses confidence in the Vikings and Sam McVeigh's strategies.

• Sunday Night Football Anticipation:

  • Hosts express excitement for the Bills vs. Ravens matchup, anticipating another high-stakes game.
  • PFT Commenter at [57:03]: "Bills 31, Broncos 7. Yes."

6. "Who's Back of the Week" Segment

• Ongoing Discussions:
  • Hank champions the New England Patriots after a challenging season.
  • Max highlights the Philadelphia 76ers' retention after trade rumors, emphasizing fan support.

7. Voodoo and Supernatural Elements in Playoffs

• Commanders' "Voodoo":
  • The hosts playfully attribute the Commanders' success to a mix of strategy and supernatural luck.
  • PFT Commenter at [114:17]: "Everything just goes the Commanders' way."

8. Memorable Plays and Highlights

• Doink Play:

  • The Commanders' game-winning field goal became a talking point, with "doink" symbolizing the game’s fate.
  • PFT Commenter at [116:39]: "That was one of the more puzzling things I've ever seen."

• AJ Brown’s Performance:

  • Despite accolades, Brown faced scrutiny for his limited receptions.
  • Max at [77:08]: "Jordan Love stinks."

9. Reflection on College Football Playoffs

• Expansion and Its Implications:
  • Big Cat and PFT Commenter debate the merits of expanding the College Football Playoff system, weighing regional rivalries against fairness and competitiveness.

10. Closing Thoughts

The episode wraps up with the hosts reflecting on the unpredictable nature of the NFL playoffs, the emergence of new talents, and the enduring passion of football fans. They encourage listeners to enjoy the games, appreciate standout performances, and look forward to the remaining playoff battles.

Notable Quotes:

• Big Cat at [89:07]: "Roger Goodell is kind of the anti Adam Silver. I don't feel like he listens to us."
• PFT Commenter at [129:00]: "We did stuff the ballot."

Tune in next week as Big Cat and PFT Commenter continue their journey through the NFL playoffs, bringing you the latest takes, analyses, and all things sports.

Disclaimer: The above summary is based on the provided transcript and is a fictional representation of the podcast episode.