Pardon My Take: Thanksgiving Special with Fred Smoot In Studio, CFB, Week 13 Picks and Preview, Kirk Cousins and PFT/Hank Rivalry Continues

Hosts: Big Cat & PFT Commenter
Guest: Fred Smoot
Release Date: November 27, 2024
Platform: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, Amazon Music (ad-free for Prime Members)

1. Introduction and Episode Overview

The episode kicks off with the hosts, Big Cat and PFT Commenter, setting the stage for an extended Thanksgiving special. They outline the key topics, including an in-depth discussion on college football, Week 13 NFL picks, a preview of Thanksgiving games, and a continued rivalry between PFT and Hank. Notably, Fred Smoot joins the show, adding expert insights to the conversation.

Big Cat introduces the episode:

"On today's part of my take, we have an extra long Thanksgiving special for the people. We have Fred Smoot in studio. We have Kirk Cousins. We're going to talk college football..." [00:25]

2. NFL Game Analysis and Strategic Insights

Ravens vs. Chargers: The discussion begins with a breakdown of the Ravens' dominant performance against the Chargers. Hank praises the Ravens' second-half dominance and criticizes Chargers' quarterback Quentin Johnson for dropping crucial passes.

"If it hadn't worked out, I would absolutely kill John Harbaugh... But it worked out. So he's a genius." — Hank [03:43]

Importance of Elite Running Backs: Big Cat and Hank delve into the significance of top-tier running backs like Derrick Henry and Saquon Barkley, emphasizing their impact on successful NFL teams. They argue that an elite running back can elevate a team's performance, especially when surrounded by a strong supporting cast.

"Saquon Barkley and Derrick Henry are complete game changers in today's NFL." — Big Cat [05:26]

3. College Football and Heisman Trophy Race

Week 13 College Football Picks: The hosts enthusiastically discuss their support for the 12-team playoff system, believing it adds excitement and maintains the significance of every regular-season game. They highlight standout performances and potential playoff implications.

"The 12 team playoff is going to be great... Anyone who says the regular season won't matter is not seeing the big picture." — Hank [16:06]

Heisman Trophy Race: A dedicated segment is devoted to the Heisman Trophy race, focusing on standout running backs like Ashton Genti and Travis Hunter. The hosts compare current candidates to historic Heisman winners, debating their statistical achievements and potential to secure the prestigious award.

"Ashton Genti is doing stuff that hasn't been done for like 30 years or so." — Big Cat [26:04]
"I think I'd vote Travis Hunter. He's one of the best running back seasons of all time in the last five years." — Hank [33:38]

4. Thanksgiving Game Previews and Betting Picks

Week 13 NFL Picks: The hosts share their betting picks for Thanksgiving games, analyzing team performances, player conditions, and strategic matchups. They cover games like Bears at Lions, Giants vs. Cowboys, Packers vs. Dolphins, and more, providing detailed reasoning for each pick.

"I think the Ravens are pretty good team now." — Big Cat [04:46]
"I really think the Colts are going under." — Hank [36:05]

Picks Summary:

• Bears at Lions: Lions minus 10, over under 40.5 — Big Cat
• Giants vs. Cowboys: Cowboys -4, over under 37.5 — Hank
• Packers vs. Dolphins: Dolphins under 47 — Memes
• Ravens vs. Eagles: Eagles over 51 — Fred Smoot
• Chiefs vs. Raiders: Chiefs minus 12.5 — Max
• Vikings vs. Cardinals: Vikings minus 3.5 — Hank

"I was like, the only chance to have a God-damn picks works like we busted it." — Hank [61:16]

5. Interview with Fred Smoot

Junior College Pathway and NFL Journey: Fred Smoot shares his journey from junior college to a Division I powerhouse at Mississippi State. He discusses the challenges of transferring, building relationships with coaches, and the mental resilience required to excel in the NFL.

"Playing junior college gave me a chance to do what others couldn't... I'm ready to lead and get better." — Fred Smoot [84:56]

Overcoming Adversity: Smoot reflects on the importance of mentorship and staying focused despite setbacks, including injuries and team changes. He emphasizes the value of perseverance and adapting to new environments.

"One thing led to the next... it's just about staying on the same page and meshing our backgrounds." — Fred Smoot [175:26]

6. Continued Rivalry and Humor

PFT Commenter vs. Hank: The episode features a lighthearted yet heated rivalry between PFT Commenter and Hank, with playful insults and banter about betting picks and podcast antics. Memes joins in, adding to the comedic tension.

"He always is." — Hank [38:45]
"I'm just talking piece of shit. I thought I was trying to speed up from the hate." — Memes [34:49]

Kirk Cousins Highlights: Kirk Cousins joins the show to discuss his recent team switch, challenges of adjusting to a new system, and maintaining mental toughness amid a demanding NFL season. He shares personal anecdotes about his career, relationships with coaches, and strategies for staying centered.

"One thing is, I gotta get familiar again... It's a roller coaster, but I just take it one game at a time." — Kirk Cousins [180:03]

7. Closing Remarks and Final Picks

As the episode winds down, the hosts recap their Thanksgiving picks, engage in final humorous exchanges, and express their gratitude to guests and listeners. They reinforce their commitment to providing insightful and entertaining sports commentary.

"This has been a great long show for the people at home Thanksgiving week." — Big Cat [204:43]

Notable Quotes

• Hank on Ravens' Strategy:

  "If it hadn't worked out, I would absolutely kill John Harbaugh... But it worked out. So he's a genius." [03:43]

• Big Cat on Running Backs' Impact:

  "Saquon Barkley and Derrick Henry are complete game changers in today's NFL." [05:26]

• Fred Smoot on Team Transfers:

  "But it's a different dynamic to the essence of them both." [184:34]

• Kirk Cousins on Mental Resilience:

  "It's about staying on the same page and meshing our backgrounds." [175:26]

Conclusion

This Thanksgiving Special of "Pardon My Take" offers a comprehensive blend of NFL analysis, college football insights, engaging interviews, and the signature humor that fans love. With expert guests like Fred Smoot and Kirk Cousins, the episode provides valuable perspectives on current sports topics while maintaining the lively and entertaining atmosphere that defines the podcast.

Whether you're a seasoned sports enthusiast or a casual listener, this episode delivers in-depth discussions, memorable banter, and a hearty dose of sports passion, making it a must-listen for the holiday season.

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