Scoop City: A Show About the NFL – Episode Summary

Episode: Were the experts right? Find out where the top quarterbacks dropped on the NFL QB Tiers list
Release Date: August 14, 2025
Hosts: Dianna Russini and Chase Daniel
Guest: Mike Sando, Senior NFL Writer

Introduction

In this episode of Scoop City, hosts Dianna Russini and Chase Daniel delve deep into the latest NFL Quarterback (QB) Tiers list compiled by a diverse 50-person panel. Featuring executives, general managers, coaches, and other NFL insiders, the panel's insights provide a comprehensive evaluation of the league's top quarterbacks. Joined by senior NFL writer Mike Sando, the discussion offers an in-depth analysis of the rankings, shedding light on various quarterbacks' performances and potential trajectories.

The Panel and Methodology

Chase Daniel introduces the composition of the panel responsible for the QB Tiers list, highlighting its extensive expertise:

Chase Daniel [03:15]: "It is a 50 person panel... five executives, five general managers, five assistant general managers, five former general managers, eight head coaches, 19 coaches that are not head coaches, including 15 coordinators."

Mike Sando adds a correction to the panel's makeup, emphasizing the meticulous selection process:

Mike Sando [03:06]: "It was actually six GMs, six assistant GMs. So you were close... these are some educated people."

This diverse group ensures a well-rounded and authoritative ranking system, reflecting various perspectives within the NFL hierarchy.

Unanimous Tier One Quarterbacks

The conversation highlights the unanimous inclusion of Patrick Mahomes and Joe Burrow in Tier One, showcasing their exceptional performances and leadership.

Chase Daniel expresses enthusiasm about the panel's decisions:

Chase Daniel [03:40]: "There's two unanimous quarterbacks on here and Joe Burrow and Patrick Mahomes."

Mike Sando elaborates on Mahomes' journey from Tier Four to Tier One:

Mike Sando [03:40]: "Mahomes, his first year was a tier four and now he's had seven straight in tier one."

He explains that Mahomes' initial placement was due to limited starts rather than his actual skill level.

Evaluation of Tier One QBs: Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson

Mike Sando discusses the strengths of Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson, emphasizing their ability to dominate defenses and adapt in high-pressure situations:

Mike Sando [05:24]: "There is a feeling that Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson may be the toughest guys to face. Right... they're overwhelming tier ones."

He acknowledges a minor bias towards passers but concludes that both quarterbacks possess the versatility and consistency required for Tier One status.

Matthew Stafford's Tier One Placement

A significant portion of the episode focuses on Matthew Stafford's unexpected placement within Tier One, despite some external skepticism.

Mike Sando praises Stafford's mastery and resilience:

Mike Sando [09:16]: "There's a tremendous respect for how difficult he is to fool... he has won a Super Bowl... he's super tough."

He compares Stafford to a connoisseur of fine wine, appreciating the nuanced skills that set him apart from his peers.

Emerging Quarterbacks: Jaden Daniels, Bo Nix, and J.J. McCarthy

The discussion shifts to emerging quarterbacks like Jaden Daniels, Bo Nix, and J.J. McCarthy, exploring their potential and the factors influencing their rankings.

Mike Sando highlights Jaden Daniels' impressive performance despite challenges:

Mike Sando [26:20]: "Jaden Daniels broke CJ Stroud's record for a debut second year quarterback... that's why he's there."

He contrasts Daniels' success with Bo Nix, noting the differences in their supporting defenses and coaching systems.

Chase Daniel adds perspective on coaching influences:

Chase Daniel [11:05]: "Whether it's Cliff Kingsbury or Sean Payton, how much is this... the coach that is doing the molding plays into this equation?"

This underscores the importance of coaching in quarterback development and performance.

Players Not Making Tier One: Trevor Lawrence and Justin Herbert

The episode also addresses quarterbacks who, despite strong performances, did not secure a Tier One spot.

Mike Sando expresses concerns about Trevor Lawrence's trajectory:

Mike Sando [14:54]: "Trevor Lawrence... people are frustrated... can he even get to Justin Herbert's level?"

He questions Lawrence's path to Tier One, citing his current performance metrics and the challenges ahead.

Similarly, Justin Herbert's standing is analyzed, with Mike Sando suggesting that his performance may plateau:

Mike Sando [15:39]: "Do you think he can? I kind of think by now maybe he can't."

Impact of Coaching Systems

The role of coaching systems in shaping quarterback performance is a recurring theme.

Mike Sando emphasizes the adaptability required in modern NFL offenses:

Mike Sando [07:40]: "If you're just a good quarterback but don't have the ability to move, I think that's held against you a little bit."

He contrasts different coaching styles, noting how systems can either enhance or limit a quarterback's effectiveness.

The Aaron Rodgers Experiment and the Steelers

A notable segment discusses Aaron Rodgers' move to the Pittsburgh Steelers and its implications.

Mike Sando analyzes Rodgers' tier placement and the Steelers' prospects:

Mike Sando [21:16]: "Rogers got votes in four different tiers... he's going to be 41... DK Metcalf... Arthur Smith's known as a little bit of a headstrong guy..."

He expresses skepticism about Rodgers' longevity and the Steelers' ability to maintain playoff contention with Rodgers at the helm.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

As the episode wraps up, the hosts and guest reflect on the evolving landscape of NFL quarterbacks and the anticipation for the upcoming season.

Chase Daniel commends the depth of the panel's insights:

Chase Daniel [30:02]: "We could go for hours and hours, but Mike has 11 more interviews to go. This was a blast for us."

Mike Sando reiterates the importance of ongoing evaluation and the need to await further performances:

Mike Sando [27:40]: "Let's just wait. Let's just get some actual on the field playing time in the regular season for him and then let's evaluate a little bit more fairly."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Chase Daniel [03:15]: "It is a 50 person panel... five executives, five general managers, five assistant general managers, five former general managers, eight head coaches, 19 coaches that are not head coaches, including 15 coordinators."

• Mike Sando [03:40]: "Mahomes, his first year was a tier four and now he's had seven straight in tier one."

• Mike Sando [09:16]: "There's a tremendous respect for how difficult he is to fool... he has won a Super Bowl... he's super tough."

• Chase Daniel [11:05]: "Whether it's Cliff Kingsbury or Sean Payton, how much is this... the coach that is doing the molding plays into this equation?"

• Mike Sando [21:16]: "Rogers got votes in four different tiers... he's going to be 41... DK Metcalf... Arthur Smith's known as a little bit of a headstrong guy..."

This episode offers a comprehensive exploration of the NFL QB landscape, providing listeners with expert insights and thoughtful analysis on the current standings and future prospects of the league's top quarterbacks.