Hour 2: Herm Edwards, ESPN NFL Analyst

Summary

Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron - Hour 2: Herm Edwards, ESPN NFL Analyst

Release Date: January 12, 2025

In this episode of "Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron," hosts Matt Jones and Myron Metcalf sit down with Herm Edwards, ESPN NFL Analyst, to dissect the latest happenings in the NFL playoffs. The trio delves deep into game analyses, quarterback performances, coaching decisions, and the broader implications for the teams involved. Below is a comprehensive summary capturing the key discussions, insights, and conclusions from the episode.

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1. Introduction and Setting the Stage

The episode kicks off with a light-hearted exchange about enjoying Jack in the Box's menu offerings, quickly transitioning to the main focus: the NFL playoffs.

Matt Jones [00:27]: "I'm ready to play football. I've been waiting a long time for this."

Myron Metcalf [00:32]: "Time is here, time is now."

Herm Edwards joins the conversation to provide his expert analysis on the unfolding playoff scenarios.

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2. Houston vs. Chargers: A Complete Breakdown

The trio begins by analyzing the Houston Texans' decisive victory over the Los Angeles Chargers, with a particular focus on Chargers' quarterback Justin Herbert's performance.

Herm Edwards [01:50]:

"That was a Houston team that obviously, you know, was the team we thought they were in the beginning of the season. I thought the last month of football they weren't very good. They were struggling. They kind of put it all together defensively for sure. And then offensively did enough, you know, running the football to win this game in a big way. But it was a complete breakdown of the Chargers. I mean, you know, they got beat offensively, defensively and special team wise. I mean, it's just, they just broke down."

Matt Jones [02:26]:

"No, I just think if I were the Chargers, I'd be having meetings about whether or not Justin Herbert ever leads them anywhere. I don't think Coach, he ever leads them anywhere. I think you've seen him at his peak, and I think they're just stuck with Justin Herbert. You can't win a playoff game with Justin Herbert."

Herm acknowledges Herbert's strides in his first year but emphasizes the critical role of a quarterback in playoff success.

Herm Edwards [02:54]:

"It's going to boil down to the quarterback. Can he do it in big moments, especially in playoff competition? Because now they're going to be considered, you know, one of those teams that obviously is going to continue to be in the playoffs. But I want to see more. But it was a poor performance by Herbert."

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3. Ravens vs. Steelers: Coaching and Team Dynamics

The conversation shifts to the Baltimore Ravens' victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, with particular attention to coach Mike Tomlin's strategies and the Steelers' ongoing struggles.

Matt Jones [05:16]:

"Yeah, it's different. I mean, everybody respects Mike Tom. I think you're the Rooney family. I think what will happen is I think the Rooney family will bring him in the room and say, listen, we won't fire you because that's just not what we do. But I do think it's time for a split for everybody. I mean, I think it's fair to say Mike Tomlin has been legendary."

Herm discusses the Steelers' defensive shortcomings and the aging offense, questioning the sustainability of their current approach.

Herm Edwards [04:18]:

"They don't have a lot of speed on their defense. Right. And the defense just, it was, it wasn't very good. I mean, and you expect that out of a Steelers team. Good defense. I think their offense is 10 years behind schedule now."

Matt underscores the difficulty in finding a viable replacement for Tomlin and the broader issues facing the Steelers.

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4. Broncos vs. Bills: Bo Nix's Playoff Prospect

A significant portion of the episode is devoted to analyzing the playoff matchup between the Denver Broncos and the Buffalo Bills, with a spotlight on rookie quarterback Bo Nix.

Herm Edwards [06:31]:

"If Josh Allen. All of a sudden the slipper falls off and he starts turning the ball over. I mean. But no, I mean, look, Denver defense is going to have to try to keep this game in reach and then slow him down some. But look, this is Josh Allen's moment."

Matt Jones [07:17]:

"I think Bo Nix is going to take chances. Like I think Bo Nix is going to come out here and feel like who cares if I throw five interceptions as a rookie in the playoffs? He's going to take his shots. I'll give you a prediction. This is a one score game going into the fourth quarter."

Herm discusses the potential impact of Bo Nix's aggressive playstyle and how it could influence the game's outcome.

Herm Edwards [08:38]:

"If they allow Bo Nix to extend plays because Bo Nix can run. We don't talk about him as a runner. He can run, you know, and that's the problem."

The trio debates the strategic implications of allowing a rookie QB to take liberties on the field, with Matt predicting a closely contested game.

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5. Packers vs. Eagles: Quarterback Showdown

The discussion transitions to the NFC wild card game between the Green Bay Packers and the Philadelphia Eagles, focusing on the quarterbacks Jalen Hurts and Jordan Love.

Herm Edwards [09:04]:

"History says the Packers have gone in there twice in this position and beaten them with Brett Favre. And obviously Aaron Rodgers, I think this Eagle team understands that. I think they're a team that, you know, they're built for this, for the playoff run now."

Matt Jones [10:51]:

"I've lived that busboy life, too. Yeah, no, it's a good way to come up."

Herm emphasizes the importance of Hurts transitioning into a more effective passing role, drawing parallels to Lamar Jackson's evolution.

Herm Edwards [11:30]:

"That's right. That's where, that's where he's at with his career right now, you know, and he's a good quarterback."

The duo debates the reliability of Jordan Love compared to Jalen Hurts, considering Love's inconsistent performances this season.

Myron Metcalf [21:30]:

"This is an interesting game for the narrative of both quarterbacks."

Matt highlights the historical challenges of quarterbacks like Justin Herbert in postseason play, questioning their ability to perform under pressure.

Matt Jones [31:38]:

"But if you could pick between the really good regular season quarterback who never shows up in the postseason or the kind of up and down regular season quarterback who always shows up in the postseason, which option are you taking?"

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6. Coaching Changes: Patriots Hiring Mike Brable

Herm offers his perspective on the New England Patriots' recent hiring of Mike Brable as their new head coach.

Herm Edwards [14:30]:

"I think we all saw this coming, right? Well, it's not like we're surprised in stretch of the imagination, but I think obviously it's a good hire. They've got a guy that understands the dynamics of this organization, what this organization has accomplished in that span of winning all these Super Bowls."

Matt underscores the significance of Brable's hire, suggesting it may influence the broader coaching landscape.

Matt Jones [15:03]:

"He's a good tipper to Herb. That's usually a good sign."

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7. The FA Cup Anecdote: David vs. Goliath in Soccer

Shifting gears, Myron shares an engaging story about the English FA Cup, illustrating the classic "big guy vs. little guy" dynamic.

Myron Metcalf [25:20]:

"So in England they have a soccer tournament. All the teams in England can play, including like not just Manchester United and Liverpool, but even like part time pub league teams."

The anecdote highlights Tamworth, a modest sixth-division team, facing off against Tottenham Hotspur, emphasizing the unpredictable and heartfelt nature of such matchups.

Herm Edwards [27:31]:

"They get to the game. The locker room at Tamworth is so small that it's like all the players are sitting on top of each other. Games about to start. It gets delayed. Why? The net is broken and they need to duct tape the net to the goal."

Myron and Matt draw parallels between this and potential underdog stories in American sports, enhancing the episode's relatability.

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8. Rams' Relocation to Arizona: Impact on Team Preparation

The discussion returns to NFL dynamics with the Los Angeles Rams' move to Arizona, exploring how such relocations affect team routines and performance.

Matt Jones [15:44]:

"We were talking kind of offline, Herm, obviously, about everything that's happening in California and just sort of tragedies there. The Rams have moved everything to Arizona."

Herm dissects the logistical challenges and the Rams' ability to maintain their performance despite the upheaval.

Herm Edwards [16:19]:

"It's all about routine, obviously, and that takes place when you have to deal with something like this. And this happens sometimes in the NFL with, with weather conditions."

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9. Minnesota Vikings' Quarterback Dilemma: Sam Darnold vs. Daniel Jones

A heated debate arises around the Minnesota Vikings' quarterback situation, specifically the potential rise of Daniel Jones over Sam Darnold.

Matt Jones [17:18]:

"Well, you hear the rumors up here, Herm, there, you know, they just signed Daniel Jones from the practice squad."

Herm challenges the feasibility and impact of inserting Daniel Jones into high-stakes playoff games.

Herm Edwards [18:49]:

"If Daniel Jones goes in the game, guys, that game's already lost."

Matt counters by highlighting the Vikings' strategic moves to position Jones for potential playoff impact.

Matt Jones [24:34]:

"They're not following what's happened up here. The Vikings aren't saying what Daniel Jones's role will be in the playoffs, whether he'll be QB2 or not. But there is a world where it happens."

Despite the skepticism, the conversation underscores the unpredictability of playoff decisions and their ramifications.

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10. Playoff Predictions and Final Thoughts

As the episode draws to a close, the hosts and Herm share their predictions for the remaining playoff games, emphasizing key matchups and potential upsets.

Matt Jones [35:37]:

"They would have like Central Florida. Except Tamworth's not even a good team from the non league. So it'd be like Central Florida plays against Oklahoma City Thunder."

The trio emphasizes the high-stakes environment of the playoffs, where historical performances and current form will significantly influence outcomes.

Matt Jones [42:21]:

"I think a lot of people will feel like the winner of Buffalo, Baltimore will have a real chance going."

Herm reflects on the emotional and abrupt nature of playoff eliminations, adding depth to the discussion.

Herm Edwards [22:13]:

"People don't realize when you're in the playoffs and you lose, the ending is so abrupt. For players and coaches, it's like, we're done, you know, because you wait all year to get here and then you're out."

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11. Audience Interaction and Closing Remarks

Throughout the episode, Matt and Myron engage with listeners through text messages, addressing questions and sharing anecdotes to enhance the interactive experience.

Listener Message [23:24]:

"I love that that Myron brought up. Daniel Jones does. Would he like to give me odds on Daniel Jones playing? Unless Sam Darnold gets hurt."

The episode concludes with promotional segments and teasers for upcoming shows, maintaining engagement and anticipation for future discussions.

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Notable Quotes:

• Matt Jones [02:26]:

  "You can't win a playoff game with Justin Herbert."

• Herm Edwards [04:18]:

  "They just broke down."

• Herm Edwards [16:19]:

  "It's all about routine."

• Herm Edwards [22:13]:

  "We're done, you know, because you wait all year to get here and then you're out."

This episode offers a thorough and insightful analysis of the NFL playoffs, enriched by Herm Edwards' expert perspectives and the hosts' engaging discussions. Whether you're an avid football fan or a casual observer, the conversation provides valuable takeaways on the teams and players shaping the postseason landscape.

Transcript

[Matt Jones]

If you need three new reasons to.

[Myron Metcalf]

Love Jack wraps at Jack in the.

[Herm Edwards]

Box even more, here they are.

[Myron Metcalf]

Chicken fajita, chicken Caesar and delicious.

[Herm Edwards]

Starting at $3. Coincidentally, those are the same three reasons.

[Myron Metcalf]

You should come to Jack in the.

[Herm Edwards]

Box right now at Jack.

[Matt Jones]

Every bite's a big deal.

[Podcast Host]

This is Matt and Myron, the podcast.

[Matt Jones]

I'm ready to play football. I've been waiting a long time to this.

[Myron Metcalf]

Time is here, time is now.

[Podcast Host]

This is the countdown to Kickoff on ESPN Radio.

[Myron Metcalf]

It is Countdown to Kickoff here on ESPN Radio. Matt Jones Meyer Metcalf now joined by her efforts. ESPN NFL Analyst. All right, here's the thing, Herm. Myon's been in kind of a contrarian mood this morning. He came in arguing. They left him in the wrong studio. And he was a little bit cantankerous this morning. You know, you get, people get like that sometimes, Herm. You've been around long years.

[Herm Edwards]

Long season for you guys.

[Myron Metcalf]

Long season. So here's the thing, cuz. He's a little cantankerous. I want him to get out of his system and we'll do it with you. I'm going to give you all six playoff games. I want you to tell me your first thought that comes out about him. And then Myron, if he has a disagreement, he can get it out and you all can debate. You good with that?

[Matt Jones]

I'm not in the mood, man.

[Herm Edwards]

He ain't in the mood, but that's okay.

[Myron Metcalf]

Well, if he doesn't disagree, then he can just say he agrees with you. All right? But I have a feeling he's going to disagree because he's in one of those moods. So let's start with yesterday. Houston and the Chargers. Chargers. Herbert, those four interceptions, what was your big takeaway from the game?

[Herm Edwards]

That this was a Houston team that obviously, you know, was the team we thought they were in the beginning of the season. I thought the last month of football they weren't very good. They were struggling. They kind of put it all together defensively for sure. And then offensively did enough, you know, running the football to able to win this game in a big way. But it was a complete breakdown of the Chargers. I mean, hs, you know, they got beat offensively, defensively and special team wise. I mean, it's just, they just broke down.

[Myron Metcalf]

Any can taker his comment there, Myron?

[Matt Jones]

No, I just think if I were the Chargers, I'd be having meetings about whether or not Justin Herbert ever leads him anywhere. I don't think Coach, he ever leads them anywhere. I think You've seen him at his peak, and I think they're just stuck with Justin Herbert. You can't win a playoff game with. You can't go on a playoff run, I should say, with Justin Herbert. And if that's the case, what do you do in your quarterback room going forward? Well, that would be my thought.

[Myron Metcalf]

Yeah.

[Herm Edwards]

I mean, you know, that's going to. That's, you know, like, I'll say this, it's Hardball's first year with this team, so I think, you know, he made a lot of strides with this football team. But you're right. At the end, it's going to boil down to the quarterback. Can he do it in big moments, especially in playoff competition? Because now they're going to be considered, you know, one of those teams that obviously is going to continue to be in the playoffs. They're in a tough division, obviously, with the Chiefs sitting over there. But I want to see more. But it was a poor performance by Herbert.

[Myron Metcalf]

There was, no doubt, four interceptions in that game. Only three all year. I mean, that's a crazy stat in itself. All right. The Ravens really kind of handle the Steelers from start to finish in that game. Ravens, I think, you know, they have a chance to go all the way on the Steelers side with Mike Tomlin. I mean, he's obviously a great coach. Is there a point where your voice can just blend into the woodwork and it might be too long, or do you kind of not agree with that philosophy?

[Herm Edwards]

I look at it this way. Mike did an excellent job of winning 10 games with this football team, to be quite honest. I mean, it's not the most talented roster anymore.

[Myron Metcalf]

What'd you make of the Pickens comment after the game?

[Herm Edwards]

You know, I mean, I don't know.

[Myron Metcalf]

That's.

[Herm Edwards]

It's, you know, he's always saying something. He's the guy the week before was dropping footballs. He wants the ball and drop four the week before. Right. So I, you know, you know, don't worry about that.

[Matt Jones]

But.

[Herm Edwards]

But I'll say this. You know what was really glaring. They don't have a lot of speed on their defense. Right. And the defense just, it was. It wasn't very good. I mean, and. And you expect that out of a Steelers team. Good defense. I think their offense is 10 years behind schedule now. You know, they can't continue to play that way to keep up with the teams in their conference. Think about it. The Ravens, okay, You got the Cincinnati Bengals. This is a. This is a conference where, you know, you look at it with the quarterbacks these other teams have right now, you got to score points. You can't just say, we're going to be a defense and just. No, Lamar Jackson and that offense is their dynamic guys. They're scoring 30 points a game. The Pittsburgh Steelers, you know, score 22 points at best and try to win it defensively with special teams. They're not the same defense anymore.

[Matt Jones]

Yeah, it's different. I mean, I. Listen, everybody respects Mike Tom. I think you're the Rooney family. I think what will happen is I think the Rooney family will bring him in the room and say, listen, we won't fire you because that's just not what we do. But I do think it's time for a split for everybody. I mean, I think it's fair to say Mike Tomlin has. Has been legendary.

[Myron Metcalf]

It's like a cow Kentucky thing at some point.

[Matt Jones]

Yeah, it's. It's like every. It's time for everybody to move on. And to me, if Mike Tomlin made it clear that he's willing to coach elsewhere tonight, all of these teams with an opening would call him. I mean, it would change the coaching search around the league, and it would also put Pittsburgh in a position to move on as well. There's no easy fix for the Steelers, who, who you go out and sign. You pay Sam Darnold $60 million. That's not going to change anything. You go get Kirk Cousins with half an ace, half an Achilles, that's not going to change anything. And you're not high enough in the draft to land one of the top two prospects. So I just think the Steelers are stuck. And if I'm Mike Tom and I would think about moving on.

[Herm Edwards]

Yeah, it's tough because they've lost now, what, five straight playoff games.

[Myron Metcalf]

Five straight.

[Matt Jones]

Yeah.

[Myron Metcalf]

So they make it, but then they don't win. So it's a tough spot to be in. Broncos and Bills today. Any chance her Bo Nicks goes on the road and pulls a shocker off?

[Herm Edwards]

If Josh Allen. All of a sudden the slipper falls off and he starts turning the ball over. I mean. But no, I mean, look, Denver defense is going to have to try to keep this game in reach and then slow him down some. But look, this is Josh Allen's moment. I mean, you know, this is what this team has tried to do to get to this position. I mean, they would only actually, if they can win, then, you know, this week they'd play another home game and they'd only have to go on the road once to face the Chiefs. If the Chiefs win, obviously they'd have to go on the road and face them in the championship game. But I think this is a game that the Buffalo Bills playing against a rookie quarterback, they can't lose this game. This would be, this would be bad if they lose this game.

[Myron Metcalf]

Well, we got to have, we got to have the Bills win just so we can get Ravens Bills, right? I mean, isn't that what all of America wants to see?

[Matt Jones]

Well, and the good news is everything that we anticipate in the playoffs always happens, right? Here's what I think. I think Bo Knicks. The thing about Bo Knicks, he's already won. The Broncos have already won. Sean Payton's already won. They got into the playoffs with a rookie quarterback who looks like he can be a young franchise quarterback. I think Bo Nix is going to take chances. Like I think Bo Nix is going to come out here and feel like who cares if I throw five interceptions as a rookie in the playoffs? He's going to take his shots. I'll give you a prediction. This is a one score game going into the fourth quarter. I'll tell you that this is going to be closer than people realize, even in Buffalo. This is not going to be the cakewalk that people think.

[Herm Edwards]

Well, I'll say it, it might be that if this, if they allow this to happen, if they allow Bo Nicks to extend plays because Bo Nicks can run. We don't talk about him as a runner. He can run, you know, and that's the problem. If he extends plays, now you got a problem. They got to make him beat them playing from the pocket. Look, the Buffalo Bills don't have a dominant defense as well, but they're playing at home. Guys, I've been in that place, man. I've been in that place. Now that young quarterback has no idea how loud this place is going to be. I mean, it's like he going to.

[Myron Metcalf]

Be shocked when he sees this. I mean, you go, you go look at the draft with Jaden Daniels, Caleb Williams, Bo Nix, Drake May, and Even Michael Penix Jr. You might have five franchises that have their quarterback of the future from the same draft. That is a fact. That's pretty amazing. Packers Eagles 430 packers slip lose to the Bears in a game they were trying to win last week. Does it matter? And then what about the Eagles at home? Are they going to be able to handle at Herm?

[Herm Edwards]

Well, I'm hoping so. Now history says the packers have gone in there twice in this position and beaten them with Brett Favre. And obviously Aaron Rodgers, I think this Eagle team is, understands that. I think they're a team that, you know, they're built for this, for the playoff run now. And now they're in the playoffs, you know, and everyone's thinking that it should be the Eagles and the Detroit Lions winning the championship game. I happen to be one of those. Now, with that being said, you can't fall asleep on the Green Bay Packers. And here's what the Green Bay packers can do. They can run the ball better than you think. Jacobs is a good runner. I mean, he, he, he, he, he can run the football and, and, and that sets up what they want to do. They're very balanced. Play, action, pass. Look, their fifth total offense, their fifth total defense. They take the ball away as good as the Philadelphia Eagles do. So this is a game, if you're Green Bay, you want to get into the lead and make Jalen Hurst try to beat you. Throwing. That's got to be their mindset.

[Matt Jones]

Yeah, I mean, I think both guys like who's healthy. Right. I mean, we didn't really talk about Jalen hurts and concussion protocol. You know, how is he ready to go? Obviously Jordan Love with the elbow. I think we talk a lot about what CJ Stroud is not from one year to the next. And we're not saying as much about Jordan Love and the fact that, you know, he got signed to that big deal off of eight games and an incredible win in Dallas. But we haven't seen that guy yet this season, not consistently. So for me, it's like, is he really a next level dude that can go to Philly of all places and get a win? I'm not, I'm not convinced. Like, I don't think he's the same guy this year. He hasn't been as consistent. But you win a game like this and yeah, people would, would feel like the money was justified. You lose and I think there'll be.

[Myron Metcalf]

A lot of people questioning Jalen Hurts in a game like this. Coach.

[Herm Edwards]

I do. I think he has something to prove because people want to see, can you do that? Can you beat a team playing from the pocket, playing from behind at the quarterback position? Look, it's all been based on the runner, rightly so. And they still got to run the football. They got to run the football. That's what they do. But at the end, can Jalen Hurst make enough throws to win? And then that's going to be important for him.

[Myron Metcalf]

He's got to make that transition. Herm, that Lamar has made Right. Like the transition from being a decent passer that runs to a good runner that passes.

[Herm Edwards]

That's right. That's where, that's where he's at with his career right now, you know, and he's a good quarterback. I mean, but you look at his numbers, his numbers aren't, they don't frighten you. Now, as we said, he only, he has 18 touchdown passes. That's almost one touchdown a game. Now, I know they've leaned on the run. Now he has another 14 running. So that's what he brings to the table as well. You know, the guy ran for 630 yards. Okay. But there's going to be moments in this game where he's going to have to make some throws.

[Myron Metcalf]

Yep. Hermit, will you stick around for another segment?

[Herm Edwards]

Absolutely.

[Myron Metcalf]

I mean, I love having you around.

[Herm Edwards]

Absolutely. I got nothing else to do but talk football.

[Myron Metcalf]

That's what I like about you, you know, you're not trying to play music or do or like you're just out here talking football. Hey, ESPN plus subscribers, get even more of the sports and teams you love. You can now get six months of SiriusXM on us. That's great. More live games, sports talk, music, podcasts, all at your fingertips. Score more with ESPN plus and get six months of the Sirius XM app today. All you need is an active ESPN plus subscription. Go to espnplus.com SiriusXM6 free months because of your ESPN plus subscription eligibility and offer details. Apply more more Hermit next here on Countdown to Kickoff.

[Podcast Host]

The playoffs are here.

[Herm Edwards]

Touchdown Josh Allen.

[Podcast Host]

The latest news, the best analysis.

[Herm Edwards]

These struggles in the postseason have been significant.

[Podcast Host]

Plus predictions and reactions.

[Matt Jones]

They've got one of the best defenses, if not the best defense in the NFL.

[Podcast Host]

The NFL playoffs. Continuing coverage right here on ESPN Radio. Matt and Myron the podcast. Hey, ESPN subscribers, get even more of the sports and teams you love. You can now stream six months of SiriusXM on us for even more. Live games, sports talk, music and podcasts all at your fingertips wherever you go. Score Even more with ESPN and get six months of the SiriusXM app today. You just need an active ESPN subscription. Get all the [e-mail] SiriusXM eligibility and offer details apply from ESPN podcast and Omaha Productions. Coach is a new groundbreaking educational football podcast hosted by NFL legends Bill Belichick, Matt Patricia and Michael Lombardi. In each episode, the coaches break down game changing situations and front office management tactics, sharing insights from decades of coaching experience and opening up the Bill Belichick Encyclopedia of Football Knowledge created by football legends. For football fans, new episodes of Coach Drop Weekly. Listen wherever you get your podcasts.

[Myron Metcalf]

Canada kickoff here on ESPN Radio 888, say ESPN. Matt Jones, Meyer Metcalf. We are here with the great Herm Edwards. All right, Herm, we've given you some of the games, but before we get to the last two, Mike Brable, new coach of the New England Patriots. Do you like the hire?

[Herm Edwards]

Well, I think we all saw this coming, right? Well, it's not like we're surprised in stretch of the imagination, but I think obviously it's a good hire. They've got a guy that understands the dynamics of this organization, what this organization has accomplished in that span of winning all these Super Bowls. And so I think it's a good fit for them. He'll feel very comfortable there. He has a quarterback in place, so that, that, that's a good thing. So we'll have to see what happens going forward now.

[Myron Metcalf]

He's a good tipper to Herb. That's usually a good sign.

[Matt Jones]

That's big on that.

[Myron Metcalf]

He tipped. He tipped big. When you, when person, are you a big tipper, Herm? You like when you throw the cash down for people?

[Herm Edwards]

Hey, look, man, when I was in high school, you know, on when. When basketball season, all that stuff was over. When I used to work at a. At a restaurant, I was one of the bus boys. You know, I used to bust the tables and wash the dishes back. I didn't wash dish. I put him in the dishwasher, obviously. But, you know, doing that stuff and, you know, the waitress would always come back and, you know, give. Give the tips. And I wanted to, you know, I was always happy about getting some cash before I left home. So, yeah, I'm a big tipper. I believe in that.

[Matt Jones]

I've lived that busboy life, too. Yeah, no, it's a. It's a good way to come up.

[Myron Metcalf]

You've lived that bus boy life and you still don't tip?

[Matt Jones]

I tip well. Not tip well. We. We were talking kind of offline, Herm, obviously, about everything that's happening in California and just sort of tragedies there. The Rams have moved everything to Arizona. I mean, a lot of their families, I think, are also down in Arizona with them. They're working out, I believe, in the Arizona Cardinals practice facility, and I think even living there, some of them, the Vikings now going to Arizona instead of la. What. What does that do to a team's preparation when, you know, you have a situation where you're not able to play in Normal circumstances, you're thinking about family and kind of all those things.

[Herm Edwards]

Well, it's all about routine, obviously, and that takes place when you have to deal with something like this. And this happens sometimes in the NFL with. With weather conditions. Sometimes you might have to leave early, going somewhere, you know, so teams are used. They're accustomed to this. Doesn't happen a lot, but it happens during the season. Sometimes not as. Not as talked about as much, maybe as it. As it would be in the playoffs. But this is a team. The Rams, when you look at them, you know, what they've been able to do now, I guess this is a home game away from home. They've won their last three home playoff games, and this is considered a home game, even though it's Arizona. And Matthew Stafford, you know, his numbers are pretty Good. You know, 13 touchdowns, only three interceptions in playoff. That's his playoff number. So they're playing a Minnesota Viking team that got embarrassed. Guys.

[Matt Jones]

Yeah.

[Herm Edwards]

How is. The key to me is how is Sam Darnold gonna react now? Right? How does he bounce back from what happened to him?

[Matt Jones]

Well, you hear the rumors up here, Herm, there, you know, they just signed Daniel Jones from the practice squad.

[Herm Edwards]

Oh, Lord.

[Matt Jones]

Got rid of Nick Mo. So Daniel Jones is right there. If something goes wrong, there's a world, Herm, where Daniel Jones could be inserted.

[Myron Metcalf]

Was the book. Is the book out on Darnold now? Just.

[Herm Edwards]

No, no, no, no, no, no. But I'm telling you what you said. Daniel. Giants. Daniel Jones.

[Myron Metcalf]

Giants.

[Matt Jones]

Daniel Jones. A lot of people forgot that the Vikings had signed Daniel Jones a couple months ago.

[Myron Metcalf]

It took him 20 minutes to get his cantankerous self out. You're not. You don't think they're gonna put Daniel Jones.

[Herm Edwards]

Wait, Wait a minute now. Wait a minute.

[Matt Jones]

Now listen.

[Herm Edwards]

So are you telling me. Are you telling me that if Sam Darnold struggles, that you putting in Daniel Jones?

[Matt Jones]

Here's.

[Myron Metcalf]

Here's.

[Matt Jones]

Here's what I'm saying.

[Herm Edwards]

For what, a run play?

[Matt Jones]

Here's what I'm saying, Coach.

[Herm Edwards]

Yes.

[Matt Jones]

Daniel Jones got signed whenever it was. A couple months ago, he was signed to the practice squad, meaning he wasn't eligible to play. Right. So. So you're not even thinking about Daniel Jones. You know, maybe you deal with him in the off season, see what you have. Who knows? They just caught Nick Mullins, who was the backup quarterback to Sam Darnold, and they signed. They put Daniel Jones on the active roster. So now your backup quarterback going into these playoffs is Daniel Jones. So there's a world where maybe not today or maybe not Monday, but let's say they win tomorrow and you go to Detroit and Sam's struggling again. There is certainly a scenario where Daniel Jones.

[Myron Metcalf]

Were you telling a chance Herm, Tell him to stop. Just tell him.

[Matt Jones]

I'm not, I'm not making this up, man.

[Herm Edwards]

I know you. I know you ain't making it up. But let me tell you something. If Daniel Jones goes in the game, guys, that game's already lost.

[Myron Metcalf]

It's already over.

[Herm Edwards]

He ain't bringing you back.

[Myron Metcalf]

Yeah, sorry. I'm with you on that.

[Herm Edwards]

I'm sorry.

[Matt Jones]

I'm not, I'm not saying.

[Myron Metcalf]

Let me go back to the question.

[Matt Jones]

Hold on real quick, Matt.

[Myron Metcalf]

Let me go back to the question about the blitz. Do you think the blitzing that the lines did. Do you. What do you think is the book out on Darnold, that this is what you do to him?

[Herm Edwards]

Well, obviously, you know, that's. That's going to be the key now. Can he deal with the pressure? Can you speed his clock up? And that's what happened in that game. We, we saw it. His clock was sped up and then his accuracy got bad. And so obviously, you know, the Rams are, you know, tape is tape. They. They see that. Will they attempt to do it? Yeah, they'll attempt to do it. And the only answer to it is, is, is can Sam Darnold be effective when it, when, when they bring pressure?

[Myron Metcalf]

I, I do want to get your thoughts on the last game that tonight. The Bucks and the Commanders.

[Herm Edwards]

Yes.

[Myron Metcalf]

You got old veteran Baker Mayfield, who rebuilt his career against a rookie who has been awesome, that you know very well with Jaden Daniels. All right, so this is a great chance on the road for Jaden to get a victory as a rookie. Does he get it done in Tampa?

[Herm Edwards]

If he's able to. To. To run. And here's. Here's his numbers. When, when he runs for 50 or more yards, they're six and two. Can he extend the plays? If you are Todd Bowles, you know that, you know, you. Now you beat him the first time. It was 37 to 20. That's when he was first. First game of the season. But he knows that if this quarterback leaves the pocket, that's where the problems start. So it'll be interesting to see. Like, and you mentioned it earlier before we talked, we made this the subject when we were off air. You can't say enough about Baker Mayfield. He is playing outstanding, guys. I mean, this guy has 41 touchdown passes. I'll say it again, 41 of them.

[Matt Jones]

Incredible.

[Herm Edwards]

I mean, it's. And, you know, and he's a guy that. He can run. He doesn't get enough credit for extending plays himself now. So this Buck team, you know, it's playing hot right now. I mean, they. They are. They got a hot quarterback in Baker Mayfield. They've beaten this team. Washington playing a rookie quarterback, you know, and Jaden knows that. He knows all that. But this game is not too big for Jaden. He's trying to break a record that's never been accomplished in the NFL, and that's a rookie quarterback playing in the Super Bowl.

[Matt Jones]

Is that possible? Is that real, you think, with Jaden?

[Herm Edwards]

I think it. I think it's hard. It's hard. It's never been done, guys. That's how hard it is. He's going against history, though.

[Matt Jones]

But.

[Myron Metcalf]

Yeah, you know, but if there was a person. The NFC is also much easier than the afc. I mean, you're basically looking well.

[Herm Edwards]

But at the end, at the end, you know, there's. There's two teams that I think are more equipped, that are better football teams in Washington than nfc. One of them happened to be the Eagles. The other one's the Detroit Lions.

[Myron Metcalf]

I agree. But Washington's not going to be scared of the Eagles hard.

[Herm Edwards]

Oh, no, no, no, no, no, no, no.

[Myron Metcalf]

You know, there are. They've already played them twice. Herm, thank you very much. As always. Enjoy your day of football. I know weekends like this make you very happy.

[Herm Edwards]

Oh, it's playoff time, man. You know the sad part about it? People don't realize when you're in the playoffs and you lose, the ending is so abrupt.

[Myron Metcalf]

Yeah.

[Herm Edwards]

For players and coaches, it's like, we're done, you know, because you wait all.

[Myron Metcalf]

Year to get here and then you're out. Oh, thank you very much. Appreciate it. More next here on ESPN Radio. Hey, it's your resident super bowl champ, Chris Candy coming on Monday.

[Matt Jones]

Sam Donald's next contract.

[Myron Metcalf]

Matt Stafford's future.

[Herm Edwards]

I'll tell you what's at stake as.

[Matt Jones]

We wrap up wild card weekend with Vikings Rams. It's unsportsmanlike Weekday mornings at 6, right.

[Myron Metcalf]

Here on ESPN Radio, ESPN2 and ESPNU.

[Podcast Host]

Matt and Myron, the podcast.

[Herm Edwards]

Eagles quarterback Jalen hurts taking part in the first practice of the week. He does need to clear concussion protocol to play in Sunday's NFC wild card game versus the Packers.

[Myron Metcalf]

He was quick. He was definitely moving with confidence. The ball came out of his hand crisp and clean.

[Matt Jones]

It looks sharp. I'll be honest.

[Myron Metcalf]

I Think he did a great job of dealing with that and coming back as sharp as he did today.

[Matt Jones]

And he had a phenomenal practice. That's why you practice.

[Myron Metcalf]

This is why you go through the process of practicing and, and yeah, this.

[Herm Edwards]

Is why you go out there and do those things.

[Myron Metcalf]

It is kind of a kickoff here on ESPN Radio. Three games today all around the NFL. Matt Jones and Meyer Metcalfe. You know we have a text machine. 772-774-5254 people writing in. One person writes. I love that that Myron brought up. Daniel Jones does. Would he like to give me odds on Daniel Jones playing? Unless Sam Darnold gets hurt.

[Matt Jones]

Unless Sam Darnold gets hurt.

[Myron Metcalf]

Well, meaning, like what are the two you're suggesting that maybe they would if Sam Darnold didn't play? Well, put Daniel Jones in this person, I think is saying there's no way that happens.

[Matt Jones]

Okay, but. Well, they're not following what's happened up here. The Vikings aren't saying what Daniel Jones's role will be in the playoffs, whether he'll be QB2 or not. But there is a world where it happens. I mean, if you tell me Sam Donald is playing the Rams and has thrown three interceptions. I mean, I don't think it's crazy. Like I think you're going to do everything you can to win. And again, Daniel Jones was on the practice squad and now he's on the active roster. So you can say whatever you think, but they've moved him into a position where he can impact a game.

[Myron Metcalf]

So you think he plays?

[Matt Jones]

No, I don't. I'm. I wouldn't put money on it, but I would say it's interesting for a team to make this move now and to actually make him. Like, you know, that's a big deal on a 50, 53 man roster going into the playoffs. Matt, like you don't have a ton of spots. So they must clearly think he's ready to make an impact if they're going to put him in that position. Nick Mullins is still there, the quarterback. I said he was on the practice squad or got cut. He's still on the roster too. But you know, he's in the mix to potentially play if everything goes wrong in Arizona for Minnesota.

[Myron Metcalf]

Before we get to the game, I want to. Can I tell you a little story about today that I think you'll, you'll appreciate? You know, about once a year I tell you about the FA Cup. Do you, do you know, you remember that we've talked about that over the years.

[Matt Jones]

Yeah, like the, the, the plumbers playing.

[Myron Metcalf]

Yeah, so the plumbers thing. But it's in, in England they have a soccer tournament. All the teams in England can play, including like not just Manchester United and Liverpool, but even like part time pub. Pub league teams. Right. And all the teams play and they have a tournament. And then in one round, which is the round that's happening right now, sometimes you will get these crazy matchups. And this morning, Myron, at historic Tamworth Stadium in Tamworth, England, which I don't think either of us have ever been to Tamworth. They're in the sixth division, Myron. They're part time. One of their players works at a zipper company. He helps make zippers. One of their players gets up every morning at 4am and he delivers bread. Another one of their players works at the building washers and dryers. Okay, so these are blue collar folks who have other jobs. They get drawn in this cup with Tottenham Hotspur, one of the biggest clubs in the world, worth hundreds of millions of dollars. And in the draw, Tottenham has to go to Tamworth. So you have multimillionaire soccer players playing against guys who make zippers. Right. They get to the game. The locker room at Tamworth is so small that it's like all the players are sitting on top of each other. Games about to start. It gets delayed. Why? The net is broken and they need to duct tape the net to the goal. Tamworth. One of the players gets on the shoulders of the other player and with duct tape wraps the net around the goal. All right. This is beautiful stuff. Only 1200 people in the stadium. The game takes off. Myron Tamworth took Tottenham Hotspur to overtime and then in overtime, lost and hot Tottenham won. But it was a great example of what makes that sport so well, the big guy versus the little guy.

[Matt Jones]

Yeah, it's the most unique thing I've ever heard of. I mean, just in terms of. Especially the fact that they have to travel to them.

[Myron Metcalf]

Yes.

[Matt Jones]

I mean that would be any other situation.

[Myron Metcalf]

So it'd be like if in the NCAA tournament, instead of seating, you just drew the names out of a hat. Right. So like Arsenal is playing Manchester United right now. They drew each other, but then this other team passed to play the little team. It was, it's a, it's a wonderful thing. They didn't win. But the pictures in the crowd, you know, the manager for Tamworth, when it came out to shake hands, he just took his baby with him. He was like, he just had his baby in his arms when he Went to shake hands of the Tottenham manager. I love it.

[Matt Jones]

So, so, so zipper factory dude. Does he have to take off? Like he's got a.

[Myron Metcalf]

Well, I think it's Sunday. I think he was probably off today. But they say they only practice, by the way, twice a week because these guys have other jobs.

[Matt Jones]

But that's the problem. I don't really think. I don't really about soccer because like you couldn't take a bunch of dudes from a church league and put them up against an NBA who's in the church league.

[Myron Metcalf]

This would be like taking a team.

[Matt Jones]

From, you know, the G. The basketball equivalent. Yeah, give me the basketball equivalent.

[Myron Metcalf]

I don't know what that. Because in America we don't do the leagues like this. Like so in England university, like college sports are not really a thing. So I think the equivalent of this would be like if a team from the Big 12. Okay, right. Were to play against, you know, Oklahoma City. That's what you're talking about. Basically it'd be like all of a sudden Central Florida. Except. Except Tamworth's not even a good team from the non league. So it'd be like Central Florida plays against Oklahoma City Thunder. That's what you're.

[Matt Jones]

They got a chance to win and it's a close game.

[Myron Metcalf]

And then the game though is at Central Florida. Right?

[Matt Jones]

Go to overtime and it goes to.

[Myron Metcalf]

Overtime and then they lose. That's essentially what you're talking about.

[Matt Jones]

That's amazing. I love the draw concept too. I mean, I'd watch an NCAA tournament where you picked out of a house.

[Myron Metcalf]

The other thing is they draw Myron every round. So all the winners in this round will now get put in a hat and you draw them again. That's basically how it works. And it's on ESPN plus for those of you that have ESPN plus, I'm a company man. All of these matches are on espn.

[Matt Jones]

What's it called again?

[Myron Metcalf]

The FA Cup.

[Matt Jones]

What does FA stand for?

[Myron Metcalf]

Football Association. Okay, so you think I made that up and that might not be correct.

[Matt Jones]

I don't know. You hesitated.

[Myron Metcalf]

Well, I don't know if that's correct. Nick, will you look up? I think fa.

[Matt Jones]

You hesitate.

[Myron Metcalf]

I think FA stands for. You're actually right. When you had Football Association. Football Association.

[Matt Jones]

But he didn't know that though.

[Myron Metcalf]

How dare you.

[Matt Jones]

You didn't know.

[Myron Metcalf]

You think I just guessed that? You think I just guessed Football Association?

[Matt Jones]

The way you hesitated? You were. You were second guessing the whole thing, man.

[Myron Metcalf]

See, you thought I was wrong. Football Association. A different kind of football today is in Philadelphia, the Packers and the Eagles. You were blasting Jordan Love earlier saying, maybe not as good as people think. What would you say if he goes into Philly and gets a victory today?

[Matt Jones]

I think that'd be huge. You know, I mean, I. He's had a lot going on. He's had injuries, and I don't know if he's 100% coming into this game. You know, he started that stretch where he's leading the league in interception. I don't think he's throwing the pick since then. And I think that was through like week nine or ten or something like that. But now he loses. Christian Watson, talented receiver J.R. alexander hasn't been around because of injury and he's out for the season. So I, I think there's a lot to go into Philly, man, especially if your quarterback isn't 100%. But you can make a statement. If he wins another game on the road in the playoffs as an underdog, I think that ends any concerns about who Jordan Love is. And it's sort of the opposite of what Justin Herbert has done, right? Justin Herbert has looked phenomenal in regular seasons. But here's the thing, Matt. If you could pick between the really good regular season quarterback who never shows up in the postseason or the kind of up and down regular season quarterback who always shows up in the postseason, which option are you taking? You know, you're clearly taking guy number two. And if Jordan Love wins again today, that's who people will say he is.

[Myron Metcalf]

Yeah. This is an interesting game for the narrative of both quarterbacks. It's the fourth time the Packers Eagles have played in the playoffs, but they haven't played since 2010. But it feels like especially for. If the packers were to pull this upset off, which I don't think is crazy, by the way, I mean, I'm going to pick the Eagles, but I think the packers can go in here and it's a game with a few minutes to go. This is a Jalen, Hurts, even Nick Sirianni game. That in my opinion, Myron, they just can't lose this. Right? I mean, they, they are considered probably one of only two teams in the NFC that really has a shot to win the super bowl. And you cannot lose this first game at home. And if you go back and look historically, we always have one massive upset in the first round of the, of the, of the playoffs. I kind of wonder if this will be the game tonight where we go, wow, the Eagles drop that at home.

[Matt Jones]

I mean, I think certainly you Go right back to all the preseason chatter that we had about Nick Sirianni and Jalen Hurts if they were to lose this game. Remember, Jalen Hurst just cleared concussion protocol. Like how. How much has he practiced? You know, how involved has he been in the game planning? We just didn't talk about the fact that he was dealing with this concussion situation. So now he comes in after all of that. I think especially if Jalen hurts, has to win this game with his arm, and he struggles to do that, I think that'll be a large concern. If Nick Sirianni makes a bunch of mistakes. You're playing a. I think a live dog, certainly in Green Bay. That can be Green Bay. It can be the Philadelphia, certainly, if they played at their best.

[Myron Metcalf]

I will note Matt LaFleur, the head coach. The packers is 19 and 16 straight up as an underdog. He has a winning record. Myron, as an underdog. There are not too many coaches in the NFL that. That's true about.

[Matt Jones]

That's rare, man. This. This would be huge. You go into Philly Monday would be fun on. On first take and get up in all those shows if that happens.

[Myron Metcalf]

Yeah. By the way, this. These. These teams played each other, if you remember, in week one in Brazil. Yeah, that was the. That was the start.

[Matt Jones]

Which kind of doesn't count, right? I mean, we look at that game and go, like, I mean, why doesn't it count? It was in Brazil. Jordan Love got knocked out of the game late.

[Myron Metcalf]

You don't think Brazil counts?

[Matt Jones]

We don't count. I don't count the London games or the Brazil game. I don't. If you don't play in America, I don't count it in terms of how I see you as a team.

[Myron Metcalf]

Okay, so you're like, make America football great.

[Matt Jones]

You got only the country.

[Myron Metcalf]

It sounds like you're very sort of nationalistic when it comes to football. If it's not within the zoo, Alaska and Hawaii games, would they get to count?

[Matt Jones]

You know, my theory, we're giving Europe way too much and not getting enough in return. You know, we can have that conversation, but if it doesn't happen in America, no, it doesn't change.

[Myron Metcalf]

Sound like a guy who I think ran for president. ESPN Radio is presented by Progressive Insurance. I have a riddle brought to you by Progressive Insurance. What do home and auto have in common? Myron doesn't want any of them outside of America. Progressive protects them both. It was an easy riddle. And. And you can learn [e-mail] so if the super bowl were in London, would it count?

[Matt Jones]

Oh, they better not do that. They said they might wouldn't count to me. It'd be like the bubble in the NBA. It just wouldn't count.

[Myron Metcalf]

Oh, you don't count the bubble either.

[Matt Jones]

I do, but a lot of people don't, so it would be like that to me. What are we getting from Europe? Like, what are they giving us for these games?

[Myron Metcalf]

What are we getting from Europe? I mean, maybe all of Western civilization.

[Matt Jones]

Well, that's debatable, but, yeah, we can.

[Myron Metcalf]

Maybe we should put some tariffs on soccer. I mean, you know, most philosophy, literature, our language. A lot of that came from Europe.

[Matt Jones]

Yeah, but I don't know. They would solve. I mean, there's a lot to debate about that, but I think we don't need to give them gains.

[Myron Metcalf]

Coming up. Myron seems to believe that Bo Nix. Well, he believes a lot of things, as you can hear, but he also believes that Bo Nix could go into Buffalo and scare the Bills. He'll tell you why next here on espn.

[Podcast Host]

The playoffs are here.

[Myron Metcalf]

Here's one in the end zone. He's got a touchdown.

[Podcast Host]

The latest news, the best analysis.

[Matt Jones]

They're going into the playoffs limping.

[Podcast Host]

Plus predictions and reaction.

[Myron Metcalf]

Everything that we want is still out.

[Matt Jones]

In front of us.

[Podcast Host]

The NFL playoffs. Continuing coverage right here on esp. ESPN Radio, Matt and Myron, the podcast.

[Myron Metcalf]

It is counting down the kickoff here on ESPN Radio. 888, say, ESPN Broncos and Bills. I'm seeing live shots right now, Myron, in Buffalo. Looks very cold. Not crazy cold, but very cold. I was sitting here thinking, what's the coldest? Like, let's say you were a Bills fan. How cold would it have to be for you not to go to the game? A playoff game?

[Matt Jones]

I mean, like, me or a Bills fan?

[Myron Metcalf]

You. You, if you were a Bills fan, like, or, you know, if you pick your team, you're. You're a Vikings fan. Like, what's.

[Matt Jones]

What's non salt? I'm not in a suite. Like, where am I? Am I in a suite?

[Myron Metcalf]

No, no, no. You're going to be out in the elements. You're not going to be a suite. Like, you're like, this is not how Myron lives regularly. I'm saying if you were an average.

[Matt Jones]

Fan, for me, I'm probably not sitting out below 30.

[Myron Metcalf]

Below 30? You're.

[Matt Jones]

No, probably 30.

[Myron Metcalf]

Okay, so. But in Buffalo, it's going to be that cold and they're going to show up and be loud and ready to go. Will Bo Nix be able to handle that? Environment as a rookie. He seems like a very cocky guy who. Things like this don't rattle him. But it will be his first playoff situation. How do you think it goes for him?

[Matt Jones]

Well, first off, those fans can't feel the cold because they're, you know, eight shots of fireball, whatever and whatever they do out there breaking tables. But I think Bo Nix will take shots. To me, there's no pressure on Bo Nicks. There's absolutely no pressure on him coming into this game. No one expects them to win. Everyone's already talking about Josh Allen versus Lamar Jackson next week. So they've almost kind of been dismissed in the playoff picture. And. And I agree. Bo Nicks getting this team to the playoffs looking like he's a young franchise quarterback. You get to go into this game really, and almost just kind of have fun because there are no expectations, but he's going to take shots. He's got a crazy arm, man. And I think you're going to see Bo Nix going to this game feeling like if he leaves, like he'd rather leave with four interceptions, then. Then be conservative. And I think that's the kind of player you'll see. He's going to force things, he'll make mistakes, but I think he also will take the risk that you have to take to have a chance against a team like Buffalo. In Buffalo.

[Myron Metcalf]

Yeah, I think you make a really good point about there are two teams in the playoffs that there are. There is zero pressure on the Broncos and the Commanders. Yeah, rookie quarterbacks, happy to be there. Now the Commanders can win.

[Matt Jones]

Yeah.

[Myron Metcalf]

But there's no pressure on them because the fans will just go, look, the future is really, really bright. And nobody has lesser pressure on them than the Broncos. Because you're right. Nobody even thought they'd be here. And they're playing a team that can make the super bowl, so they should just go out guns a blazing. Now on the other side, I think there's a ton of pressure on the Bills. Bills. I mean, can you imagine what a loss today would be like? It's one thing to lose to Patrick Mahomes. It'd be even another thing to lose to Lamar Jackson next week. But you can't, Myron, lose to a rookie quarterback. I mean, you just can't. You cannot lose at home to Bo Nix. So if I was a Bills fan, I would be nervous today. You got a lot more on the line now. You believe this game will be close in the fourth quarter?

[Matt Jones]

I do. Just because I think that Broncos defense is better than maybe People are giving them credit for, I think, jocks. Josh Allen has been excellent. Right. MVP football, all of that stuff. But remember, there's a whole bunch of guys that are on the offensive side with Josh Allen who are new to this kind of moment, you know, who haven't been to this place. And even if you tell me there are guys who've been to the playoffs, they haven't been with the team necessarily where the expectation was that you made a run to the playoff or there's this pressure on your quarterback to get to that moment. You lose today. And I don't know, that'd be hard to recover from because how many more chances do you get if you're Lamar, if you're Josh Allen, to play a Kansas City team that looks somewhat vulnerable, that looks like they're not just going to steamroll everybody in the playoffs. You lose today, and I don't know where you turn from here in terms of getting fans excited about the years ahead.

[Myron Metcalf]

Can I just say something real quick about Patrick Mahomes in Kansas City? Yeah, how about. I mean, for all the talk of, oh, you know, they've been disappointing this year, they look vulnerable. Look at what's happened to them. Not only did they get the buy after winning the games to get the, the, the buy into get home field, they're going to get Houston, Byron in the first round, they're going to get Houston. And if they don't get Houston, it would be. They get Broncos because they would upset. I mean, somehow there are three other great quarterbacks in the afc. Yeah, Lamar, Josh Allen and Joe Burrow. And Mahomes is going to find a way to only have to play one of them at most. It's pretty amazing, isn't it?

[Matt Jones]

I mean, I mean, that's the thing is they have Lamar and Josh Allen eliminating each other. I mean, that, that is ideal. If you're Mahomes, I think we'll look back at last year and say that was the shot for both guys like Mahomes traveling to Buffalo, Mahomes traveling to Baltimore, that that was your opportunity and it's just going to be hard to catch them on that field at the same time. Baltimore looked amazing last night. And I think if, if Josh Allen puts together like a lopsided win and they just dominate the Broncos, I think a lot of people will feel like the winner of Buffalo, Baltimore will have a real chance going.

[Myron Metcalf]

One person, though, that will not pick the winner of Buffalo, Baltimore to beat Kansas City, and that's me. Until Mahomes loses I'm not picking against him. And while I can't wait, I hope Buffalo wins today so I can see Buffalo, Baltimore next week because I think it'll be maybe the best game of the whole playoffs. You are not going to have me pick against Mahomes until he loses because he's just done too much for me to ever do that.

[Matt Jones]

Yeah, I'm not, I'm not on that train. I mean, I saw Baltimore and I felt like they could do what they did last night to anybody. I mean, that's how it felt. Like they can just march down the field if they play good defense. It really doesn't matter who they're facing. They're going to put up big points. They're going to put, they're going to put up big numbers no matter who's in front of them. And if you tell me it's a, it's a close game, you think Baltimore.

[Myron Metcalf]

Could go in in the next two weeks, can go into Buffalo in what might be terrible weather and win and then go into Kansas City the next week and win true road games against both of those teams?

[Matt Jones]

Yes, I think what you saw last night proved that that's possible. But I think again, Buffalo has the ability to beat Kansas City as well. This, you know, NFL history says it's going to be hard for them to do. It's never happened before.

[Myron Metcalf]

Home so much. You. You are so. Is that, is that what it is? The three times thing? You just, you just don. Three times in a row.

[Matt Jones]

I don't think he's been that great. He hasn't been great. Who he's not. He's not a Pro Bowler. Right. Which makes sense. You know, he hasn't outplayed the guys started.

[Myron Metcalf]

He was 15 and 1. Like, is that not great?

[Matt Jones]

But, I mean, but you're going by the record. But if we're talking about how he's played, I, I told you this before. I think there are, they are closer to a 10 or 11 win team than the final record.

[Myron Metcalf]

You said this last year and then they went and won the Super Bowl.

[Matt Jones]

Last year was impressive. Last year was remarkable. But I think you're seeing even more vulnerabilities this year.

[Myron Metcalf]

Well, I know this when it comes down to it and every, every fan of every team in the country would agree with this statement. There's not a person in sports you would want to see less having the ball with the drive on the line than him. There's nobody else you'd want to see less than Patrick Mahomes and one of these teams is going to have to do it. Home field advantage for the Rams may not be at home, but will they be able to take out the Vikings? That's next. Hey, it's a resident super bowl champ Chris Candy coming on Monday. Sam Donald's next contract, Matt Stafford's future. I'll tell you what's at stake as.

[Matt Jones]

We wrap up Wildcard weekend with Vikings Rams. It's Unsportsman like weekday mornings at 6.

[Myron Metcalf]

Right here on ESPN radio, ESPN2 and ESPN.

[Herm Edwards]

You.

[Podcast Host]

Thanks for listening to Matt and Myron the Podcast. You can listen to the show live every Sunday morning at 10am Eastern on ESPN radio, the ESPN app, and on Sirius XM channel 80. Matt and Myron the Podcast.