Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron: Hour 1 - Myron's Voices

Release Date: December 29, 2024

Introduction

In the latest episode of "Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron", hosts Matt Jones and Myron Metcalf delve deep into the intricacies of the sports world, offering listeners a blend of insightful analysis, candid conversations, and light-hearted banter. Despite Matt grappling with a lingering cold that has affected his voice, the dynamic duo ensures a lively discussion filled with key sports topics, personal anecdotes, and memorable moments.

Navigating On-Air Challenges

The episode kicks off with Matt revealing his struggle with a cold:

Matt Jones [00:28]: "I have the final remnants of a cold. And I thought I lost my voice last night."

Myron steps up to support Matt, showcasing their strong on-air chemistry:

Myron Metcalf [00:28]: "I'm probably going to be relying on you and our callers if they'll open up the phones."

Their playful exchange highlights the camaraderie between the hosts, setting a relatable tone for the episode.

Ad Read Mishaps and Host Dynamics

A significant portion of the episode revolves around Matt's recent on-air experiences, particularly a live read that didn't go as planned. Myron brings this up humorously:

Myron Metcalf [02:14]: "You didn't even take time to really think about it."

Matt reflects on the incident:

Matt Jones [03:19]: "I thought they made me a part of the read. I didn't know what was going on, but... it was a slight error."

The duo humorously critiques each other's ad reading skills, emphasizing their unique voices and styles:

Matt Jones [04:31]: "A little bit of Isaac Hayes and Barry White."

Myron Metcalf [04:35]: "It's almost like he takes a switch where he thinks he has to become a different human being."

Their light-hearted ribbing not only entertains but also underscores the challenges of live broadcasting.

College Football Playoff Hunt and the Cincinnati Bengals

A substantial segment of the discussion focuses on the Cincinnati Bengals and their quest to make the playoffs. Myron provides an on-site perspective from a recent game:

Myron Metcalf [05:49]: "I went yesterday. Couple of observations... They're all going to be drinking, they're going to be hammered."

Matt highlights Joe Burrow's pivotal role:

Matt Jones [08:11]: "Joe Burrow... he is literally carrying that franchise."

They delve into the complexities of playoff qualifications, with Myron outlining the numerous conditions the Bengals need to fulfill:

Myron Metcalf [11:02]: "They need the Dolphins and the Colts to lose once over the next two weeks. Plausible."

Matt adds insights on coaching decisions and player performances, emphasizing the significance of Burrow's leadership and potential MVP candidacy.

MVP Debates and Player Performances

The conversation shifts to the ongoing MVP debates, contrasting players like Joe Burrow, Josh Allen, and Lamar Jackson. Myron appreciates the subjective nature of the awards:

Myron Metcalf [09:36]: "It just proves if you want to make an argument you'll use any fact on your side."

Matt expresses a desire for clearer criteria:

Matt Jones [09:59]: "I just wish we had a set standard for what MVP is."

They also discuss Tom Brady's role as a game announcer, critiquing his performance:

Myron Metcalf [39:16]: "He's not good at it, right?"

Matt remains slightly more optimistic about Brady's progress but acknowledges the challenges:

Matt Jones [40:05]: "I think people wanted him to be Romo right away or something like that, and that was never gonna happen."

HBCU Coaching Appointments: A Double-Edged Sword

A heated debate arises around recent coaching appointments at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), specifically focusing on DeSean Jackson and Michael Vick. Myron draws parallels between these hires and famous pop culture groups:

Myron Metcalf [34:01]: "Maybe Michael Vick is in sync and Desean Jackson is 98 degrees."

Matt counters by emphasizing the potential negative implications for HBCUs:

Matt Jones [33:25]: "I absolutely hate it. And I think it is not good for the game."

He argues that such appointments might overshadow deserving coaches who have dedicated their careers to these institutions:

Matt Jones [33:03]: "We're going to reward the people who have done the work."

Myron acknowledges the value in increased visibility but remains skeptical about long-term benefits.

Honoring the Legacy of Greg Gumbel

The hosts pay tribute to Greg Gumbel, a legendary ESPN broadcaster who recently passed away at 78. They reminisce about his influential career and enduring legacy:

Matt Jones [28:06]: "He was successful at such an early stage in his career... he was an absolute legend."

Myron Metcalf [29:22]: "He's the only African American to ever call a Super Bowl."

Their heartfelt reflections underscore Gumbel's impact on sports broadcasting and his role as a trailblazer for future generations.

NFL Game Previews: Packers vs. Vikings Showdown

Wrapping up the episode, Matt and Myron preview the anticipated Packers vs. Vikings game. They analyze team dynamics, quarterback performances, and playoff implications:

Matt Jones [42:09]: "I've had an opportunity to... see things firsthand. The culture of the team is as good as I've seen it with the Minnesota Vikings in a long time."

Myron Metcalf [43:25]: "If I tune in and I have to listen to Tom Brady talk, am I going to see a Vikings victory?"

They discuss quarterback Sam Darnold's capabilities and the team's potential to reach the Super Bowl, highlighting the importance of game-day performances in shaping team reputations.

Concluding Thoughts

Despite Matt's vocal challenges, the episode remains engaging and informative. The hosts balance serious sports analysis with personal interactions, providing listeners with a comprehensive overview of current sports narratives. From playoff hunts and MVP debates to honoring broadcasting legends and scrutinizing coaching appointments, Matt and Myron deliver a multifaceted discussion that caters to avid sports enthusiasts.

Notable Quotes:

• Matt Jones [00:28]: "I have the final remnants of a cold. And I thought I lost my voice last night."

• Myron Metcalf [02:14]: "You didn't even take time to really think about it."

• Matt Jones [08:11]: "Joe Burrow... he is literally carrying that franchise."

• Myron Metcalf [39:16]: "He's not good at it, right?"

• Matt Jones [28:06]: "He was successful at such an early stage in his career... he was an absolute legend."

Conclusion

This episode of "Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron" masterfully blends sports commentary with personal rapport, offering listeners both depth and entertainment. As the hosts navigate through various topics with humor and expertise, they reaffirm why their show remains a staple for sports aficionados every Sunday morning.