Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron: "Are the Bills the Best?"
Release Date: December 8, 2024
Hosts: Myron Metcalf and Matt Jones
Platform: ESPN Radio, ESPN App, Sirius XM Channel 80
Introduction
In the episode titled "Are the Bills the Best?", ESPN Radio hosts Matt Jones and Myron Metcalf dive deep into the current landscape of both college and professional football. The discussion spans the impending College Football Playoff (CFP) selection, the Buffalo Bills' impressive season, MVP contenders, and NFL playoff predictions. Notably, the episode features insights from guest ESPN NFL analyst Herm Edwards.
College Football Playoff Selection
As the episode begins, the hosts touch upon the excitement surrounding the first-ever 12-team College Football Playoff.
Gabe Neitzel [00:04]:
"As we get closer and closer to the reveal of the College Football Playoff bracket, the first ever 12 team playoffs in high major college football, we want to hear from you..."
They encourage listener participation via call-ins, emphasizing the community's role in shaping the playoff narrative.
Myron Metcalf [02:14]:
"I think the field outside of SMU, Alabama..."
The conversation highlights debates over team rankings and potential biases in the selection process, particularly concerning teams like Indiana and Army.
NFL Performance Analysis
Buffalo Bills and Josh Allen's MVP Candidacy
A significant portion of the episode centers on the Buffalo Bills' remarkable season and quarterback Josh Allen's surge towards MVP status.
Gabe Neitzel [04:12]:
"Josh Allen now finds himself almost in that driver's seat to be the league MVP, despite statistically having one of... the lack of turnovers."
Myron praises Allen's efficiency and strategic play, noting his reduced turnovers and critical role in maintaining the Bills' strong record.
Myron Metcalf [05:01]:
"He's one of the elite quarterbacks in the league. I mean, having one of his most efficient seasons..."
The hosts compare Allen to other elite quarterbacks, debating whether his strategic gameplay or Saquon Barkley's dynamic performances should secure the MVP title.
Gabe Neitzel [07:13]:
"I just don't think that takes away with what Saquon has been able to do with the Eagles because he has been absolutely incredible..."
Chiefs' Vulnerability
Discussion shifts to the Kansas City Chiefs, examining their current vulnerabilities despite a strong historical performance in playoffs.
Myron Metcalf [08:34]:
"Kansas City's not good right now. They are playing games that they should have lost and in most cases would lose."
Gabe expresses uncertainty about declaring the Bills as outright favorites until key matchups occur, particularly facing teams like the Chiefs and Chargers.
Gabe Neitzel [09:12]:
"I just have to accept that this is the anomaly. [...] To me, it's the combination of Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes."
The conversation underscores the Chiefs' consistency and potential pitfalls as the season progresses.
The Steelers and Other AFC Teams
The hosts evaluate other contenders in the AFC, comparing the performance of teams like the Steelers, Chargers, and Bills.
Myron Metcalf [08:34]:
"Beyond the MVP conversation is I think the Bills have a credible case to be the favorites right now."
They discuss the Steelers' coaching under Mike Tomlin and the impact of aging quarterbacks on the team's championship prospects.
Special Segments and Guest Appearances
The Simpsons Cast for Monday Night Football
In a lighter segment, Matt and Myron discuss the upcoming alternate cast featuring The Simpsons for Monday Night Football, highlighting the innovative blend of sports and pop culture.
Myron Metcalf [18:47]:
"I have a pair of specially made customized Simpsons shoes..."
Their enthusiasm reflects the show's embrace of creative and entertaining broadcasting alternatives.
Guest Appearance: Herm Edwards
Herm Edwards joins the conversation, providing expert analysis on NFL quarterbacks and team strategies.
Herm Edwards [21:35]:
"When you look, when you look at the numbers, at the end of the day when you watch them now, obviously Washington has, you know, got a lead on them..."
Edwards discusses the balance between veteran leadership and rookie potential, particularly in the context of quarterbacks like Kirk Cousins and young talents emerging across the league.
Herm Edwards [24:30]:
"When the playoffs start, all of a sudden they kind of hone in..."
His insights delve into the sustainability of teams like the Chiefs and the critical role of defense in championship runs.
Game Predictions ("Take Your Pick" Segment)
The episode features an engaging "Take Your Pick" segment where Matt, Myron, and Gabe make predictions on upcoming NFL games. The segment showcases friendly competition among the hosts as they debate outcomes based on team performances and player conditions.
Myron Metcalf [35:12]:
"Give me the Steelers to win."
Gabe Neitzel [37:45]:
"I am going to say pull this one off at home."
Their picks reflect a blend of statistical analysis and personal bias, providing listeners with diverse perspectives on game outcomes.
Playoff Predictions
Towards the end, Myron and Gabe share their predictions for the College Football Playoff's final spots, particularly debating whether SMU or Alabama will secure the last position.
Myron Metcalf [41:13]:
"SMU will get in for the final spot. Alabama fans will lose it."
Gabe Neitzel [41:19]:
"I think Alabama just somehow gets in because they've been such the brand of college football..."
The discussion emphasizes the tension and anticipation surrounding the CFP selection, highlighting the unpredictability of college football rankings.
Conclusion
The episode concludes with a preview of upcoming segments, including the College Football Playoff Selection Day Special, ensuring listeners remain engaged with the unfolding sports narratives.
Myron Metcalf [41:19]:
"Now, coming up next, the College Football Playoff Selection Day Special..."
Overall, "Are the Bills the Best?" offers a comprehensive analysis of the current football season, blending expert insights with passionate debate, and setting the stage for the high-stakes playoff discussions ahead.