Hour 2: Jolly Christmas

Summary

Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron – Episode: Hour 2: Jolly Christmas Release Date: December 22, 2024
Hosts: Matt Jones & Myron Medcalf
Platform: ESPN Radio

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Introduction to Sports and Holiday Spirits

[00:26] Matt Jones: "I'm ready to play football. I've been waiting a long time for this moment. Time is here."
Matt and Myron kick off the episode with their usual enthusiasm, blending the excitement of the upcoming football season with the festive holiday atmosphere.

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Navigating Illegal Live Streams and Online Challenges

The hosts delve into Myron's recent experience with illegal live streams, particularly during the Tyson Fury fight. An individual questioned Myron about navigating pop-ups and accessing restricted content.

[01:02] Myron Medcalf: "While he was in the chat for the Tyson Fury fight, pop-ups kept coming up asking him to look at Cam."
Matt humorously admits his limited tech savvy, leading to a lighthearted debate on internet terminology.

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Refreshing Christmas Tunes: A Push for Diversity in Holiday Music

A significant portion of the episode focuses on the monotony of traditional Christmas music and Myron's proposal to incorporate more Black Christmas music into their show.

[02:19] Matt Jones: "It's a jolly day holiday. That's all of them, man. All of those songs."
[02:28] Myron Medcalf: "I played all black music. Coming back. Yeah, that's what we're gonna do."
The duo discusses the overuse of classics like "Home Alone" and "Bing Crosby," advocating for a richer, more diverse musical selection to better represent different cultures during the festive season.

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Detroit Lions vs. Chicago Bears: A High-Stakes Matchup

The hosts analyze the upcoming game between the Detroit Lions (12-2) and the Chicago Bears (4-9), emphasizing the Lions' opportunity to secure a number one seed—a feat they've never achieved before.

[03:21] Myron Medcalf: "The Lions are 12 and two and have a chance to earn a one-seat. They have never earned a one seed."
They discuss the Bears' eight-game losing streak and the potential coaching changes that might benefit the struggling Bears. The conversation shifts to quarterback Caleb Williams, critiquing his on-field demeanor and perceived lack of confidence.

[05:01] Myron Medcalf: "He looked overwhelmed and he just looks like he's over it."
[06:18] Matt Jones: "Always pick too confident over too humble. I would say 100%."
The debate centers around the importance of a quarterback's presence and confidence, with both hosts agreeing that Williams hasn't consistently projected the necessary leadership qualities expected from a number one pick.

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NFC Wild Card Scenarios: Vikings vs. Seahawks

Matt and Myron explore the playoff implications of the Vikings and Seahawks games, highlighting the Vikings' historical struggles in Seattle and the Seahawks' fluctuating home-field advantage.

[08:22] Matt Jones: "The NFC west still feels wide open with the three teams battling for that championship."
They note the Vikings' poor record in Seattle (2-9 in their last 11 games there) and question the Seahawks' traditional "12th man" advantage, which hasn't been as potent in recent seasons.

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Christmas Music Segment: Embracing Motown and Beyond

Emphasizing their earlier point on diversifying holiday music, Matt and Myron showcase classic Black Christmas hits like "Santa Claus Needs Some Loving."

[11:27] Myron Medcalf: "It's just one of those songs where it's like put the kids to bed and, you know, it's just me and you."
They humorously debate the appropriateness and appeal of these songs, with Matt expressing his preference for more universal holiday tunes while appreciating the soulful additions.

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Celebrity Guest Interactions and Light Banter

The episode features amusing exchanges about the hosts' personal talents, with Matt playfully boasting about his likability and Myron critically yet humorously assessing it.

[14:37] Myron Medcalf: "You have the least flavor of anybody."
The banter continues with discussions about Herm Edwards' appearance, adding a layer of camaraderie and humor to the show.

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NFL Highlights and Previews

Bengals vs. Browns:
The hosts discuss the high-stakes game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns, emphasizing Joe Burrow's exceptional performance despite the Bengals' losing record.

[16:54] Matt Jones: "Joe Burrow has the highest, second highest QBR of all time for a quarterback of like a team with a losing record."
They analyze the Bengals' playoff prospects, outlining the path they must take to secure a spot, while also critiquing the team's overall stability and future direction.

Chiefs vs. Contenders:
A spirited debate ensues about the Kansas City Chiefs' resilience and strategic gameplay in close matches.

[26:42] C: "Yeah, this is your bc."
[26:08] Myron Medcalf: "Chris Cany from Unsportsmanlike."
They discuss the Chiefs' ability to perform under pressure, Jalen Hurts' role, and the team's internal unity post their disgruntled phase from the previous year.

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Baseball Tribute: Remembering Rickey Henderson

A heartfelt segment honors the legendary baseball player Rickey Henderson, with the hosts reminiscing about his illustrious career and impact on the sport.

[29:17] C: "I have all the art, I got the OJ's, I got Otis Redding. And when it comes to like Motown, I could be on Jeopardy."
They share personal anecdotes and acknowledge Henderson's contributions, celebrating his legacy as one of the all-time greats.

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Cold Weather Challenges in Football

The conversation shifts back to football, critiquing unconventional and ineffective methods teams use to prepare for cold-weather games.

[30:48] C: "It's just cold, man. Cold is cold."
[31:10] Myron Medcalf: "It's just cold."
They discuss the Tennessee Titans' questionable practice of having quarterbacks warm up in freezers to simulate cold conditions, emphasizing that mental toughness and adaptability are more crucial than rigid physical preparations.

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"Why You Should Watch" – Game Previews with a Twist

In their signature segment, Myron and Matt provide unique pitches for why listeners should tune into specific NFL games, blending insightful analysis with their trademark humor.

Rams vs. Jets:
[40:02] Matt Jones: "This come from behind story with the Rams as a possible sleeper is something that you shouldn't miss."

Cardinals vs. Panthers:
[41:04] Matt Jones: "Kyler Murray is one of the stories we just haven't really talked about."

Browns vs. Bengals:
[42:33] Myron Medcalf: "Keep using the playoff argument on everyone."

Titans vs. Colts:
[43:05] Matt Jones: "The Tennessee Titans have a chance to... maybe use that pick to try to trade and get a better quarterback."

Jaguars vs. Raiders:
[44:50] Matt Jones: "Brock Bowers might reinvent the tight end position based on how he's played thus far."

Myron humorously grades these pitches, often critiquing Matt's stats or approaches, adding a layer of playful competition to their discussions.

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Closing Remarks and Holiday Wishes

As the episode winds down, Matt and Myron extend their holiday greetings, reminding listeners to tune into their weekday show "Unsportsmanlike" and promoting upcoming sports coverage.

[46:10] Myron Medcalf: "Happy and healthy holiday season and happy New Year."
They wrap up with final thoughts on the day's discussions, maintaining their engaging and jovial rapport.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Matt Jones on Confidence:
  [05:28] Matt Jones: "A quarterback has to have a certain look of confidence that he hasn't had."

• Myron Medcalf on Caleb Williams:
  [04:24] Myron Medcalf: "He has no favor. He's had a terrible coaching staff."

• Matt Jones on Vulnerability:
  [07:25] Matt Jones: "I loved it." (Referring to C.J. Stroud showing vulnerability)

• Myron Medcalf on Tennessee's Freezer Prep:
  [21:22] Myron Medcalf: "Coming up, more with Santa Claus and the loving he needs."

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Conclusion

This episode of "Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron" successfully blends in-depth sports analysis with lighthearted banter and cultural commentary. From dissecting high-stakes NFL games and celebrating baseball legends to advocating for a more diverse holiday playlist, Matt and Myron provide a comprehensive and engaging overview of the sports world intertwined with the festive spirit of Christmas.

For those looking to stay informed and entertained during the holiday season, this episode offers a well-rounded mix of insightful discussions and relatable humor, making it a must-listen even if you haven't tuned in before.

Transcript

[Matt Jones]

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[Myron Metcalf]

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[Matt Jones]

14 day expiration terms apply. See DutchBros.com this is Matt and Myron the podcast. I'm ready to play football. I've been waiting a long time for this moment. Time is here.

[Myron Metcalf]

The time is now.

[Matt Jones]

This is the countdown to kick off on ESPN Radio. Welcome back.

[Myron Metcalf]

It is countdown to kickoff here on ESPN Radio. Matt Jones, Myron Metcalf presented by Progressive Insurance. Fun first hour where we talked about Myron's illegal live stream of they'll say that one person, right, asked Myon if while he was in the chat for the Tyson Fury fight, pop ups kept coming up asking him to look at Cam. I don't even.

[Matt Jones]

I don't even know how to do that stuff. No, I don't say. See, now you're taking it to a different level. I don't know how to do that stuff, man. I'm not like a deep. What they call it the deep sea Internet or what do they call it? What's the thing?

[Myron Metcalf]

It's not the deep Internet. You're talking about the deep. The deep sea Internet.

[Matt Jones]

Is that what they call it?

[Myron Metcalf]

First of all, you're confusing metaphors. All right? Okay, there's the deep state and the dark Internet. There is no sea involved in any of them.

[Matt Jones]

See, that shows how much I know. I call the deep sea Internet. I don't even know how to get to it, but I'm telling you, I signed up for the fight and it was like, do you want to enter this chat? And I was like, yeah, of course. And then I started and of course you did.

[Myron Metcalf]

And then you entered some other things as well. Blue Flame says, I agree with Myron Metcalf that we need to sprinkle some black Christmas music into the show. I'm sick of all shows playing the Home Alone and Bing Crosby soundtracks for Christmas.

[Matt Jones]

It's a jolly day holiday. That's all of them, man. All of those songs. Like, it's like. Like, those songs are a lot.

[Myron Metcalf]

I played all black music. Coming back. Yeah, that's what we're gonna do.

[Matt Jones]

I know you did, Mikey C. I know that was hard for you, too, but I appreciate it.

[Myron Metcalf]

Let me Just say Mikey C Didn't have it already on his hard drive. He's had to go download the song.

[Matt Jones]

Yeah, he's been on Google this whole show trying to figure out right now he's Googling.

[Myron Metcalf]

He's googling.

[Matt Jones]

No, you've had some good ones.

[Myron Metcalf]

He's googling. Does Prince have a holiday? Alright, I wasn't sure about that.

[Matt Jones]

You know about this song that's been banned this Christmas. What are they. What's the one? Cold Outside Baby, it's cold Baby, it's cold Outside. It's been like banned all over America years ago.

[Myron Metcalf]

Yeah, that wasn't recently. You're saying that like you're getting a break news report that happened like a decade ago.

[Matt Jones]

But have you listened to it?

[Myron Metcalf]

It.

[Matt Jones]

It does. I try cringe worth a little bit. You know, I prefer.

[Myron Metcalf]

I don't know. Joy to the World and other Christmas hymns. You can listen to all your baby Silent Night.

[Matt Jones]

Those are some good ones.

[Myron Metcalf]

Lions at the Bears today. The Lions are 12 and two and have a chance to earn a one seat. They have never earned a one seed. They're one of only five teams ever that's not earned a one seed. The Bears have lost eight straight games and are looking worse every week. The coaching change has not helped them. They're going to get a reboot, I think probably with Mike Vrabel next year, which would be a great hire. But this is a big game for the Lions, who have not played well recently, you know, in the last couple of weeks with all the injuries. Do they go into Chicago and make sure and take care of business today?

[Matt Jones]

I think so. I mean, I don't know if the Bears can stop sort of this, you know, downward spiral they're in right now. I will say beyond the lion storyline, someone needs to tell Caleb Williams that the cameras are always on him. Like his reaction to like big hits or just being on the sidelines. Like he just always looks like he's overwhelmed. And I know some people have pointed that out, but yeah, he's not.

[Myron Metcalf]

He's got no favor. He's had a terrible coaching staff. His offensive line is awful. Like, I mean, I'm not saying he's been great, but I, he. He's been done no favors this year whatsoever.

[Matt Jones]

No, but there's a quarterback has to have a look. Like a quarterback has to have a certain look. Even in that look, even in times of diversity. I don't. It just. You gotta have a certain.

[Myron Metcalf]

You gotta be. You gotta be like, I don't want.

[Matt Jones]

To look over to the sidelines. I don't care if my team is losing by 50 and the quarterback is like, you know, laying down. I'm like, oh my goodness, what are we doing? Like, that's what Caleb Williams is doing a little bit and he can't.

[Myron Metcalf]

But do you think there's not a little bit of this with you? And this isn't the only time you do this. Isn't there a little bit of the old man my way? Like for instance, you're the kind of guy who's like, Jared McCain should not do the tiktoks.

[Matt Jones]

Oh, no, I don't have any problem with that.

[Myron Metcalf]

My rookie of the year can't be painting his fingernails. Aren't you a guy that's a little bit like that?

[Matt Jones]

No, I'm not against that stuff. Shout out to Jeremy McKay. No, I'm not against that stuff. I am against. A quarterback has to. If you're the leader of the team.

[Myron Metcalf]

You have to have to look a.

[Matt Jones]

Certain way in at wrestling.

[Myron Metcalf]

Well, like, what's the way?

[Matt Jones]

You just have to have a certain look of confidence that he hasn't had.

[Myron Metcalf]

See, this is what I don't understand for people with Caleb Williams. I, I feel like people. Because he's not played and I will grant you, not played as well as, as as many had hoped. I think there are people who then use that to criticize whatever he does. You're saying that you don't believe he has a look of confidence. But I listened all year as people said he was too confident and then he was too cocky and then he was too. So like he goes through this whole year where he is told you, you, you're too cocky, you're too confident, you're not as, you're not as good as you are cocky. So then in the last few weeks he shows some vulnerability and people go, oh, no, you can't do that. I need my, my quarterback to be confident. I need like, what do you want from the guy?

[Matt Jones]

Well, always pick too confident over too humble. I would say 100%. In that position you can work your.

[Myron Metcalf]

Way down over too humble. So that's why you like Aaron Roosters.

[Matt Jones]

No, no. In that position, as a young guy, you want a young guy to show that he's ready for the moment. Caleb hasn't done that on the field consistently. We all know that he's had a messed up staff. We'll see what happens if they get a real coach. But there just have to be these moments in this understanding that like everybody's looking to you to decide how they feel about this team and its future. And I don't know that he always gets that.

[Myron Metcalf]

I mean, he did for a long time and then everybody told him to be more humble.

[Matt Jones]

You just. But what's wrong with people having certain expectations of the number one pick?

[Myron Metcalf]

I just think, here's what I think it is. I think when you don't play well, then people are tired of saying you don't play well, so they start criticizing other things about you instead of just going, you know what? He hadn't played as well. And maybe that's his fault, maybe it's staff's fault, maybe it's the offensive lines faults, probably all of their faults. But like, that doesn't mean everything he does. I mean, C.J. stroud yesterday and I thought this was beautiful, but he bawled on the side.

[Matt Jones]

I loved it.

[Myron Metcalf]

When he saw a tank, I thought it was beautiful. But that's showing vulnerability. That's not Mr. Confidence. That's just a guy being a human being.

[Matt Jones]

I don't mind vulnerability. That, that, that's something we need more of. What I am saying is Caleb Williams, who talked a good talk, right? Who, who. You know what, he's the number one pick for a reason. I'm not in the camp of, oh, he didn't deserve it. Heisman Trophy winner, came back and was great his last year in college, too. But I just think you judge a franchise by the way a quarterback carries himself. And I would say in the last two to three weeks, I'm not saying the whole season Caleb has just looked overwhelmed and he just looks like he's over it. And you can't do that if you're Caleb Williams. There's no room for it because you have to project an image of confidence.

[Myron Metcalf]

I don't think there's any Image when you're 4, 9 or 4 and 10 that's going to make people not criticize you. Now, on the line side, they do need a win here today. You do think they get it?

[Matt Jones]

Yeah. I mean, no. Dave Montgomery, we're going to see what happens. You know, Jameer Gibbs, who I think is going to get the, the bulk of the carries. But I also think this is a Lions team that is far more vulnerable in these last three games because of all the injuries. Like, they can't think that this is just going to be a walk in the park in Chicago or anybody else they face going forward.

[Myron Metcalf]

And then the Vikings and the Seahawks play at 4:00. And the crazy part about this is if The Vikings win out. They control their own destiny for the number one seed in the playoffs. They win all three of their games. The number one seed will be in Minnesota with Sam Darnold. They're tied with Detroit for the lead, but they also have the tiebreaker at this point and they will play again. Seahawks, on the other hand, this is almost a playing game for them. They got a win today to really have a shot. They get to 55% chance the playoffs with a win, but if they lose, they're down to 25% chance. This is the game of the year for them at home. If you're a team that wants to make the playoffs, you win this game in Seattle, will they be able to do it?

[Matt Jones]

I mean, it is a big game for Seattle, right? I mean, the NFC west is still feels wide open with the three teams battling for that championship. You win and you're in a really favorable spot if you're the Seahawks. The Vikings are now playing for different stakes. I mean, they went for, from hoping Sam Darnold can get the team to the playoffs to, you know, maybe being a 1 seed. Like they're in that conversation. But this is one of those games that people should realize the Vikings don't win in Seattle. Like, you know, there are some things, Matt, where a franchise, even though it doesn't make sense because the teams are different, coaches are different, just doesn't win in a particular building. This is that for Minnesota. They've lost their last five games in Seattle. They are 2 and 9 in their last 11 games in Seattle. Like, they just don't win these games. So that's something that people, if you're a big history guy like me, factor that into all of this talk about.

[Myron Metcalf]

All right.

[Matt Jones]

They just don't win there.

[Myron Metcalf]

Well, I'd say Seattle's the whole 12th man thing that had been such a part of our consciousness. I think it's. They've lost a lot at home in the last couple years. And I think the home field advantage, which we've thought of as being almost sacred for Seattle, just hasn't been the same recently. Even when their teams have been decent, they just have not had that. That same home court ability. And I wonder if that'll include tonight. One person writes on the text machine, 772-774-5254. Myron wants them to play Albert Kings. Santa Claus Needs Some loving. It's from a 70s Motown Christmas, and that's the kind of song that he likes.

[Matt Jones]

I don't know if you could play some of Those songs you can't play, man.

[Myron Metcalf]

Wait a minute. This person can play this. Do you know Santa Claus needs Some Love?

[Matt Jones]

I. I have heard it. Like, I have heard it. Like, a lot of. A lot of black Christmas songs are just love songs on Christmas. You know what I mean? Like, a lot of them are just like. They're not just Christmas songs. It's like, hey, it's Christmas. How about you?

[Myron Metcalf]

Is that what. Is that what you. Is that what you put on on Christmas Eve? Little Santa Claus needs some loving. You put on your. Put on your outfit and then you're like, hey, you know, knock on the neighbor's doors and go, you know, it's one of those.

[Matt Jones]

It's just one of those songs where it's like. It's like, put the kids to bed and, you know, it's just me and you. It's one of those songs, you know what I mean?

[Myron Metcalf]

Myers got the boombox up playing Santa Claus Needs Loving and just knocks on the neighborhood's doors.

[Matt Jones]

No. Whoa. You think I'm just knocking on neighbors?

[Myron Metcalf]

You're hoping somebody's dad, like, hoping somebody's husband's out of town for a while. You know how it goes.

[Matt Jones]

Don't put me in that category, man. Come on, man. Don't do that.

[Myron Metcalf]

Coming up. There you go. Yeah. More with Santa Claus and the loving he needs next here on ESPN Radio.

[Matt Jones]

The NBA on Christmas day on ESPN Radio. Tip off of the spurs and Nixes at noon Eastern.

[Myron Metcalf]

Do what you want on Chris, followed.

[Matt Jones]

By the Timberwolves and Marsh. Christmas gets away.

[Myron Metcalf]

Merry Christmas. Merry Christmas.

[Matt Jones]

Merry Christmas. A Christmas day doubleheader on ESPN radio.

[Myron Metcalf]

Espn.

[Matt Jones]

And on abc, Matt and Myron, the podcast.

[Myron Metcalf]

Oh, this is. Wow. I didn't know they did a parody of Mikey Smokey. There you go. Yes. Myself and Elle Duncan. So you were.

[Matt Jones]

That's Elle. Yeah, singing. Wow.

[Myron Metcalf]

You recorded this in a studio?

[Matt Jones]

Wait, Elle can sing?

[Myron Metcalf]

Oh, Elle's got a beautiful voice. Yes. Better than Mikey, clearly.

[Matt Jones]

Wow. Elle can sing. I didn't know Elle can sing.

[Myron Metcalf]

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[C]

So to recap, we're cutting the price.

[Myron Metcalf]

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[Matt Jones]

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[C]

My dad works in B2B marketing.

[Matt Jones]

He came by my school for career day and said he was a big roas man. Then he told everyone how much he loved calculating his return on ad spend. My friends still laugh at me to this day.

[C]

Not everyone gets B2B. But with LinkedIn you'll be able to.

[Myron Metcalf]

Reach people who do.

[Matt Jones]

Get a hundred dollar credit on your next ad campaign.

[Myron Metcalf]

Go to LinkedIn.com results to claim your credit. That's LinkedIn.com results. Terms and conditions apply. LinkedIn the place to be.

[C]

To be.

[Myron Metcalf]

You're horrible, Mikey.

[Matt Jones]

Elle can sing. Wow.

[Myron Metcalf]

Did you just. You gave a Caleb Williams performance there. You just didn't put your whole self into it.

[C]

Did you know?

[Myron Metcalf]

It's really. I mean. Yeah, you're, you know, trying to sing with like. I mean, I think.

[Matt Jones]

Ls like professionally trained or something like that.

[Myron Metcalf]

It was kind of. I was out of my league, man.

[Matt Jones]

People have all that talent, man. I'm always jealous of that. Having like people who do like singer.

[Myron Metcalf]

Are you a secret talent? Do you have a talent of any sort at all?

[Matt Jones]

I'm likable.

[Myron Metcalf]

Yeah, well, that's it. That's a novel.

[Matt Jones]

But beyond. Beyond the average. No, no, no, no. I'm talking about beyond the norm. Like I'm in Utah right now, right? Wait a minute.

[Myron Metcalf]

You. Hang on, hang on. Just. You think you are more likable? Like, do you think you're like the Aaron Rodgers of likability? Like in terms like you're a hall of fame likable person?

[Matt Jones]

No, I do think you can't. Like if I go to a setting or a party, an event. You can't compare how much people like me to the like a normal person. I'm not saying I'm like special. I just, I have that. It's just some people can juggle, some people can paint. I'm likable. It's just.

[Myron Metcalf]

It's just kind of like you think you like. You think you are like extremely likable.

[Matt Jones]

Listen, man, I've been in Utah for like four days. People love me up here, man.

[Myron Metcalf]

You know you're saying that white people like you, you have the ability. I think in general, people like you.

[Matt Jones]

I go anywhere, man.

[Myron Metcalf]

Anywhere.

[Matt Jones]

I'm not saying I'm like the, the smartest, funniest, most. I'm just saying when I go into a place, likability is one of my traits. That's All.

[Myron Metcalf]

Okay, so if the apocalypse comes and we need the people invading to like us, we send you is what you're saying.

[Matt Jones]

You should probably put me at a table with them. We'll get. We'll get some food and have a conversation. I think that's just called being an extrovert, but okay. No, I'm likable. That's not.

[Myron Metcalf]

No, this is. He's likable. Just watch. No one dislikes him except the callers who say they know more about Milwaukee than he does. The Browns and the Beagles play in the Battle of Ohio again today. It's really. This series is fascinating to me. First of all, the Bengals have to win. Okay? If the Bengals win, they set up a game next week with the Broncos, which is almost for a playoff spot, or at least for a very good shot at a playoff spot. If they lose, they're out. Now, the Browns stink, but the Bengals still have their shot, and they need to win today and then to beat Denver. What's interesting about this Bengals team, though, is they struggle against the Browns. The Browns have an unbelievable record against them in the last few years, and Joe Burrow specifically has struggled against this Browns team. Do you expect Cleveland to come in and give Cincinnati a fit today? In there on the river.

[Matt Jones]

What's on the river? Oh, that stadium just there.

[Myron Metcalf]

You were there two weeks ago. Like, what do you mean, what's on the river? First of all, I'm looking. You are on your phone. Get off your. Put your phone down.

[Matt Jones]

Here's why I was trying to.

[Myron Metcalf]

Put your phone down and answer my question about the Beagles.

[Matt Jones]

Here's why. Dorian Thompson. Robinson. I was trying to make sure I had his name right because sometimes the hyphenated names get me. He's starting for the Browns over James Winston. So they're turned into a new quarterback until, you know, they figure out their situation in the off season. So, I mean, I think I read that Joe Burrow has the highest, second highest QBR of all time for a quarterback of like a team with a losing record. Right? I mean, so this whole.

[Myron Metcalf]

He's been awesome. He's been awesome. I mean, if they had a decent record, if they had just won their one score games, he'd be an MVP contender, but they just haven't done that.

[Matt Jones]

I don't like going against media and saying the media did this. I don't like being that person as a member of the media. But there was a stretch of like five, six weeks where people were like, Joe Burrow, Joe Burrow. Has to play better. And it's like, no, he was playing maybe his best football. He just was surrounded by maybe his worst team. Yeah.

[Myron Metcalf]

And he had like three weeks where he didn't have Jamar Chase. Right.

[C]

So he.

[Myron Metcalf]

He had no receivers for those first few weeks. I think the Bengals are a dangerous team now. They only ESPN at Lennox has them having a 5% chance to get in the playoffs. But there is a path. I mean, here's their path. The path is very simple. They got to win this game. They can do that. They play the Broncos the next week. They got to beat them. Then going into week 17 or 18, they have to win their game. And they have to hope the Chiefs still have something to play for and will beat the Broncos in the last game. I think the reason their percentage is low is there's a thought that the Chiefs will play Carson Wentz in that last game and it'll give them a chance to win. But. But if you just look at what's on their plate. Win this week, beat the Broncos next week. The Bengals, certainly, Myron, are capable of doing that.

[Matt Jones]

Yeah. I mean, they obviously need some help, you know, but I do think this is one of the better bubble teams that we've seen. They just have had, to your point, a lot of moments where you go, some of those close losses, now you're paying for it. The season opening loss to the Patriots. You know, there's a bunch of things that have happened to the Bengals that have put them in this position. But I honestly think it's not even about this year because the playoffs are very unlikely considering the percentages. This is about what is this franchise from here like. Like, to me, you have one of the top five quarterbacks in the league. Everybody knows that. But what are you beyond that? And I think that's what the Bangles are really struggling with, because I think we'll see a completely different team this offseason. And I think a lot of guys are playing for their jobs in these next few games. Like, why should you be a part of whatever they are?

[Myron Metcalf]

An obscenely cold game as well.

[Matt Jones]

Take their shirts off, maybe like Tennessee, and they can do cold.

[Myron Metcalf]

The Saints, by the way, play tomorrow night at Green Bay. Did you see the story that they. The Saints quarterbacks were. Went into the New Orleans facility, set in the freezer for 20 minutes to get ready for. That's the.

[Matt Jones]

That's the dumbest I saw when. When Tennessee came out against Ohio State with their shirts off, I knew they lost. Like, I knew the game was Over. Nobody who lives up in these cold states does that stuff. Like, could you imagine if the Midwest teams went to play a team in Florida and it's 90 degrees that kicked off and they're all wearing sweaters to try to prove a point? Like, no one does that. So I never understand these guys who are like, oh, I'm going to play with my shirt off for 20 minutes. I'm going to sit in the freezer. That's not going to simulate three hours in 22 degree.

[Myron Metcalf]

You don't think, well, you so you don't think it was good that, you know, that the, the quarterbacks there in New Orleans got in the freezer, try to simulate what it's going to be like to snap the ball while in a freezer. Spencer Rattler, you know, he never says, never played a game in the cold. Don't you think that'd be good? Get in the freezer, get ready.

[Matt Jones]

Spencer Rattler should have spent that time throwing passes because that is going to be the determining fact. It's the dumbest thing in the world that's not going to simulate that environment. Plus there's wind, there's all kinds of other things happening. Everyone who, who plays in this area who is from like a cold weather state, they try to stay warm at. They don't try to prove that they can handle the cult. Like, that's not what it is. So it's just weird that teams from the south will come up to these cold weather spots and go, look at me. I'm gonna play with ice and juggle ice.

[Myron Metcalf]

It's just silly chuggle ice.

[Matt Jones]

They do the dumbest things that no one else does.

[Myron Metcalf]

I did think it was weird when Tennessee, when all those guys came out with their shirts off. I did they. There's a look on a couple guys that was like, I didn't want to do this. Like, I don't normally go with my shirt off. There was some skin that got shown that hadn't seen the sun since they were like in sixth grade. I thought that was not necessarily a great sign.

[Matt Jones]

There was a couple brothers in there who went into the portal. When they got back to the locker room, there was a couple brothers out there that were, that said, you know what, I didn't agree to this. Like, what did you prove by you're not going to play with your shirt off?

[Myron Metcalf]

I think it proved they got cold and when they started, they were not ready to go. Well, you know, Myron is continuing teaching us all about Christmas and we also have another person who is one of our jolliest and happiest friends. Herm Edwards is going to be with us. I love Herm. He was here last week. He said he was mad at you because he said, Myron, you were skipping the show.

[Matt Jones]

He thinks I'm a slacker.

[Myron Metcalf]

Well, I mean, object.

[Matt Jones]

I'm not. I'm at work.

[Myron Metcalf]

First of all, you've been in Utah for like six weeks.

[Matt Jones]

Are you.

[Myron Metcalf]

Are you just become a Mormon housewife? What are you doing?

[Matt Jones]

Whoa, whoa. I'm having a good time. I'm leaving today, though.

[Myron Metcalf]

Been there a long time. Her Edwards joins us. That's next right here on ESPN Radio.

[Matt Jones]

Hey, it's Michelle Smallman from Unsportsmanlike.

[Myron Metcalf]

I just wanted to wish everyone a.

[Matt Jones]

Happy and healthy holiday and a happy New Year. And a reminder to tune into Unsportsmanlike every Weekday morning at 6:00am Eastern right here on ESPN Radio, ESPN2 and ESPNU.

[Myron Metcalf]

As the number and severity of third party breaches continue to rise, companies are increasingly vigilant, not just about how they handle their own data, but how their vendors do as well.

[Matt Jones]

For security and compliance leaders, this means more security reviews are coming across your.

[Myron Metcalf]

Desk every day and valuable time is being wasted on manual security reviews. With Vanta questionnaire automation, security and compliance teams can complete security reviews up to.

[Matt Jones]

Five times faster, giving you time back to focus on running your security and compliance programs. Over 8,000 global companies like ZoomInfo, smart recruiters and NOIBU use Vanta to save time on security reviews.

[Myron Metcalf]

Visit vanta.compodcast to learn more about questionnaire automation.

[Matt Jones]

That's V A N T A dot com podcast.

[Myron Metcalf]

This episode is brought to you by Lifelock.

[Matt Jones]

The holidays mean more travel, more shopping.

[Myron Metcalf]

More time online, and more personal info in places that could expose you to identity theft. That's why LifeLock monitors millions of data points every second.

[Matt Jones]

If your identity is stolen, their US based restoration specialist will fix it, guaranteed.

[Myron Metcalf]

Or your money back. Get more holiday fun and less holiday worry with LifeLock.

[C]

Save up to 40% your first year.

[Myron Metcalf]

Visit LifeLock.com podcast terms apply.

[Matt Jones]

Matt and Myron the podcast, yo.

[Myron Metcalf]

It is kind of kickoff. ESPN Radio. We learned learning all of Myron's Christmas jams. Who is this?

[Matt Jones]

I think this is the OJS.

[Myron Metcalf]

That's right, Mikey. Yep, that's right.

[Matt Jones]

OJ's right. Look at you.

[Myron Metcalf]

I know. Who would have known that? I should have asked Herb Edwards, ESPN OJS.

[Matt Jones]

Oh yeah.

[Myron Metcalf]

Big OJ's guy.

[C]

Yeah, it was back in, you know, back in the day with the Philadelphia Sound. You Know, they. Yeah, all that shoveling. Evelyn Champagne King and Teddy P. Yeah, they were all back in Philly now. Back in the Philly days.

[Matt Jones]

Now, Teddy. Now I've been trying to educate them, Herm. They've been playing a lot of like old white Christmas songs, you know, where. Where there a fire in the background? And, you know, and I've been trying to give them a little more holiday. No. So you know what I'm talking about. Those. Bean. Bean Crosby. So I've been trying to give them a little more flavor. That's.

[C]

That's it. That's all. Just trying.

[Myron Metcalf]

Well, we. The person who needs more flavor here is you. You're the one.

[Matt Jones]

You.

[Myron Metcalf]

You. You have the least flavor of anybody. But let's her or might you have flavors. So let me ask you this. I made a bet with Byron, okay? See if you like my side or his side. I said I would take the Bills and the Chiefs to win the super bowl, one of those two teams, okay. And he could have the rest of the field. Do you like my side or do you like his?

[C]

Well, your side's good. You're you.

[Myron Metcalf]

Yeah.

[C]

Although I'm crossing my fingers. I'm fly. Eagles fly.

[Myron Metcalf]

Are you starting to feel good about it?

[C]

Well, they're playing better. They're playing better, especially defensively, that they're doing some things. You know, Carter, all of a sudden has become a game wrecker. That front has really gotten. Gotten a push on a lot of these offensive lines. And the defense is starting to come together, the number one defense. And we'll see. And the offense is clicking right now. So they might be the most talented team in the nfc, Right? So I'm gonna go with Philly. I gotta go with Philly, man.

[Myron Metcalf]

So let me go for a second off the Chiefs, they won yesterday. I think it's like their straight one score win, which is just an absurd, absurd statistic. Do you. You know, this has been. It's become cliche to say, oh, they're doing just enough to get by, but they are doing just enough to get by. But do you feel like that there's more there and they'll just bring it out when they need to?

[C]

Well, you know, they understand that this season is a marathon and they understand this too. Look, everybody, when you're the Chiefs, you get everyone's best game, right? I mean, it's kind of like, hey, everybody's excited about playing you. You're the super bowl, defending champions. You're trying to, you know, obviously you're looking history in the Eye and saying, we're going to make history. And everybody knows that. And they just find ways to win, you know. And the quarterback has a lot to do with that. I mean, he was carried out and, you know, here we go. And I always say, look out for the injured player. Well, he showed up and he played and, you know, I'm looking at him, I'm watching me. Takes off running. I'm saying, he's even running. Then he runs in for a touchdown. I say, oh, boy. It just never ends with these guys. And they just know how to win. They're very comfortable in one score games. Very comfortable.

[Matt Jones]

I don't know how hurt he is. I mean, it's almost like, you know, James Brown would do the thing where he pretend to be hurt. It's Michael Jordan.

[C]

It's the Michael Jordan deal, right?

[Matt Jones]

And then he get up. I know how hurt he is. Jalen hurts for a second. He comes out last week and he says to the media, is that what you wanted to see?

[Myron Metcalf]

Right?

[Matt Jones]

And he's wearing the big chain that like, you know, none of the rappers have that chain, by the way.

[C]

Well, he had the head turned around like Nino Brown.

[Matt Jones]

Yeah, that was a little. That was like, he's trying to show you that he has real money. But when you have a coach and a quarterback, do you want them to be playing in a way that's like, I'm going to prove a point to, to the fans or the media, or do you want a guy who doesn't even care about that stuff?

[C]

Well, I, I just think you, you, you, you use it either way how you want to look at it, right? And I think they got to spin it this way that everybody's picking on us, you know, because when we win, no one says anything about the Chiefs except, well, they're not winning by, you know, two scores. But everybody's worried about how we win. You know, we didn't pass the ball enough. And that's why Jalen said, okay, now we pass it. You want that? I think this, I think they learned a lot from last year being a disgruntled group, and it, you know, it ended up catching them. I think now they take on being a disgruntled group, but inside the locker room, they're united. I think the team's united. I think they learned something from that. But outside, they're still pushing. This is disgruntled group. It's like the family, you know, when you have a big family and I don't know that I just been around guys with big family, there's always arguments inside the family, but then when it's time to fight, everybody come together.

[Myron Metcalf]

So.

[C]

Okay, you want to fight us? Look out.

[Matt Jones]

Yeah, yeah. No, that's. That definitely seems like the culture they have. I want to ask you about my favorite baseball player of all time.

[C]

Oh, boy.

[Matt Jones]

Ricky Henderson.

[C]

Watch it now.

[Matt Jones]

I had his rookie card growing up, and it was the greatest thing I had in my collection. We lose him at the young age of 65. What are your memories of Ricky, who is just a legend?

[C]

Well, you know, I grew up, you know, on the west coast, and so obviously I went to Cal, and, you know, that's right down the street from where the A's played. And I can remember the swinging A's and all that. And when Ricky Henderson came in, and he came in when I was about my second year in the league, and just watching him play, I mean, he was just unbelievable. I mean, speed, power, he could do it all. And a friend of mine, obviously, and I told you guys this before, is Reggie Jackson. And when Reggie says it, that's it.

[Myron Metcalf]

Book it.

[C]

He says, look, this guy's one of the 10 top baseball players ever play. And he's correct.

[Myron Metcalf]

He is correct.

[C]

25 years. Who plays 25 years?

[Myron Metcalf]

That's a long time. I mean, that's. I won't be doing radio in 25.

[C]

I mean, you're talking about a skilled player playing 25 years, not a pitcher. That changes how he pitches when he gets older. But this guy was a skilled baseball.

[Myron Metcalf]

Player, man, going back for. To the. To the football side of things. We were just talking about playing in the cold, and I saw. I read that the Saints to get ready for the game tomorrow night against the Packers, Their quarterbacks were warming up in the freezer yesterday. They all got in the freezer and they, like, took snaps and stuff in the, like, kitchen freezer to simulate being there. Myron thinks that's stupid. It is stupid.

[C]

Why would you do that?

[Matt Jones]

I mean, it makes no sense, right?

[C]

It's almost like I was watching college football, and they got. They got. They got to stop this now. I mean, they can't allow this to happen. Those guys were out there without their shirts on, and I'm like, you know what? Hey, guys, that's just a bad look for football. You know, you can go out there with a T shirt on, but this guy shouldn't be out there with their shirts off.

[Myron Metcalf]

It's just.

[Matt Jones]

It's just.

[C]

It just doesn't look right, man. It's just like, guys you guys are football players. You're not sumo wrestlers. I mean, come on, just stop it. That doesn't make you tough, you know. You know, what makes you tough is a strong mind. That's what makes you tough.

[Myron Metcalf]

All right? It feels like a piece of wisdom.

[C]

And it's just, you know, all that other stuff. I get you. Look, everybody's cold. Even teams that play outdoors, they're cold. Your body is. Your body gets cold. And so it's just. It's a mental thing, man. It's like, okay, you know, Are you.

[Myron Metcalf]

One of these people like Myron who thinks that they shouldn't play games in the cold? Everything should be in a dome, you.

[C]

Know, I'm okay with the elements. I think it makes you change to the elements. You have to adapt to.

[Myron Metcalf]

Elements.

[C]

Elements. You know, it's. And the coldest part of it, cold rain, it's a sloppy game and the fans don't enjoy it. It takes. It might take the quarterback, you know, out of commission. If it's raining and the wind is blowing, the kicker all of a sudden is in a panic. Right.

[Myron Metcalf]

So you got your roster for that. Yeah.

[C]

And the strategy changes. You're exactly right. You got to build your roster for the conditions you're playing in, especially after November.

[Matt Jones]

Yeah, Herm, with the cold thing. So I was once invited up here in the Midwest. We have something called the Polar Plunge. I don't know if you've heard of this. The first of the year, they cut a big hole into the ice, and it's usually sub zero, you know, five, six below. And people go and jump in.

[C]

Right?

[Matt Jones]

You know, and they jump in. And that's the whole thing. So I got invited to one of those, and I just thought that for what?

[C]

Why?

[Matt Jones]

What's the point? And then when I saw the Tennessee.

[Myron Metcalf]

Isn't it for charity, like. That's the one.

[C]

Then I'm gonna just donate money.

[Matt Jones]

I'll just write a check.

[C]

Yeah, give some money.

[Matt Jones]

Money? You want some money?

[C]

I ain't gotta do nothing. I'll give you a ch. I mean, you know, I mean, also the cold, man. Look, I'm gonna tell you something. I don't care if you play in the cold and you've grown up in the cold. It's cold, man. Cold is cold.

[Matt Jones]

Okay?

[C]

It's just cold. I mean, I. You know, there's nothing you can do about it and all that other stuff. Well, I'm gonna be a tough guy, man. Look, I came from the west coast and I went to Philly and I Was good. And then all of a sudden you like late November hit in December. When I went, hey, man, they say, hey, rook, it's cold out there. And I said, man, you ain't lying. What do you do? They said, you put your helmet on, you go play. And I went, okay, I got it. I got to go play. I get it.

[Myron Metcalf]

Well, let me give you take on one game today. You got the 49ers and the dolphins. That's the main event game. I don't know if it feels like a main event, but it is. 49ers still have a shot at winning their division. Do you give them any chance of winning their last three?

[C]

I think it'd be very difficult. I think actually the Rams win this division.

[Myron Metcalf]

By the way, my Rams are my sleeper Super Bowl. I've been saying it for a few weeks. I said it when the Rams had four wins, and now people are starting to say it. Herm, watching.

[C]

The Rams are playing pretty good, you know. Yeah, they're on a three game winning streak right now. The Rams, I like their offense, quarterbacks playing well. I mean, those receivers are good and they can run the ball. They're playing good right now. The Rams. The 49ers are wounded guys.

[Myron Metcalf]

You know, Rams are 8 and 6 and their last three games are against the jets, the Cardinals and the Seahawks. I'm just saying they could be a sleeper super bowl contender. The Rams.

[C]

So, so wait a minute. So wait a minute. So you're saying the Rams. At the end of the day, you're saying the Rams. So let me get this right. You're saying the Rams are going to be a what? A Super bowl contender?

[Myron Metcalf]

That what you said to get to the nfc, not to win it, but to get to the. Get to get to the Super Bowl. Here's. Here's why I say it. You got a Lions team that's super banged up. You got an Eagles. You're telling me that when they, if they have to go to Philadelphia, the Rams in the second round, you got no chance of winning that game? I think that they're going to have a quarterback who's won games like that before. Herm, they have a shot. I'm not picking them. But I'm saying if you were. I said this. Myron, did I not say this six weeks ago? The Rams were a sleeper super bowl team. I don't know why they're not, Herm.

[C]

I don't know. I mean, you're talking. There's some good. Look, okay, let me ask you this. Are they Better than the Lions.

[Myron Metcalf]

No, no. But if the Lions are this. But if they're this hurt, if you have the Lions team that's going on the field now, I think they can compete with the Lions.

[C]

Need to be quiet about being hurt. Just go play. Stop saying you're hurt.

[Matt Jones]

Stop saying you're hurt like that.

[C]

No, no. Okay. Eagles. Are they better than Eagles?

[Myron Metcalf]

Wait, Wait a minute.

[Matt Jones]

Let me.

[Myron Metcalf]

Why do you say that? They've got like seven defenders out.

[Matt Jones]

They got a lot of people out.

[C]

Here's the problem. Nobody cares.

[Myron Metcalf]

You think you.

[C]

You think the opponent goes, hey, by the way, we're gonna play our seconds and third because you're hurt. We gonna try to beat your brains out. Really care if you're hurt. You know what I mean? Stop it. No one. You don't get a pity party. You don't get. We don't put 14 points on the scoreboard because you're hurt. Before the game starts, you have to stop saying you're hurt. You're injured. There's a lot of people that are injured. I get it. Hey, man, one year I'm playing with the fifth quarterback. You know what? I was worried about making a first down, but guess what? The opponent didn't care. They didn't care. They just kept hitting the poor guys. And I'm going to get this poor guy killed.

[Myron Metcalf]

All right, there you go.

[Matt Jones]

Stop it.

[Myron Metcalf]

Herm Edwards says, stop whining about your injury. Just go play her. Merry Christmas.

[C]

God bless you.

[Myron Metcalf]

There you go. Her memories always makes me laugh. Stop talking about being injured.

[Matt Jones]

Yeah, that's fair.

[Myron Metcalf]

It is true. We will when we come back. There's a lot of bad games today. I'm not gonna lie. They. They packed the good games on Saturday and that made some bad ones today. But Myron's job is gonna be to sell them. Why you should listen to it. We had another week last week where Gabe Neitzel did a really good job on this same thing Dave Dennis did a few weeks before that. Will Myron step up his game? We'll find out next year on ESPN.

[Matt Jones]

It's a jolly day holiday. It's bowl season on ESPN radio, 25 bowl games, including the College Football Playoff and National championship game.

[Myron Metcalf]

Electricity.

[Matt Jones]

The atmosphere coverage continues Tuesday with the Hawaii bowl at 7:30 Eastern on ESP radio and on ESPN. When it comes to towing, seeing is believing. That's why Chevy Truck's advanced camera technology offers up to eight available cameras for 14 unique views. So you can focus on the view that really matters. Chevrolet together. Let's Drive. Learn more about chevy [e-mail] safety or driver assistance features are no substitute for the driver's responsibility to operate the vehicle in a safe manner.

[Myron Metcalf]

Read the vehicle owner's manual for important.

[Matt Jones]

Feature limitations and information. This Christmas is different.

[Myron Metcalf]

Five games a Christmas Day gift.

[Matt Jones]

Five superstar matchups. Splashdown. Steph Curry.

[Myron Metcalf]

The legend of LeBron continues to grow.

[Matt Jones]

Including Dunk the Halls, a real time.

[Myron Metcalf]

Animated NBA game between the spurs and.

[Matt Jones]

The Knicks and featuring Mickey and friends.

[Myron Metcalf]

Celebrate the NBA on Christmas Day beginning.

[Matt Jones]

At Noon Eastern on ESPN, ABC, ESPN and Disney plus Matt and Myron the podcast. Yeah, Jackson 5. What's this, Matt? Yeah. The Jackson 5.

[Myron Metcalf]

Yeah. See, I know my I know my Black Christmas hits.

[Matt Jones]

This is what it's called. I don't know the name of it. I don't know the name of someday.

[Myron Metcalf]

Yeah, someday at Christmas.

[Matt Jones]

Yeah. Yeah. Man, it's like 1970. Ish. 71. Notice Meyer doesn't know the name of half of these or the artists. I got. I got all the art, I got the ojs, I got Otis Redding. And when it comes to like Motown, I could be on Jeopardy. So don't do that to me.

[Myron Metcalf]

You could be on Motown. Jeopardy.

[Matt Jones]

I could be. Which sounds like the blackest show ever, by the way.

[Myron Metcalf]

Who hosts Motown Jeopardy. By the way?

[Matt Jones]

Steve Harvey.

[Myron Metcalf]

Harvey. Steve Harvey. It's gotta be Steve Harvey. No, there's no doubt Steve Harvey is Steve. Steve Harvey was made for Motown. Jeopardy. You could tune in. Football action today, the Bears host the Lions. Coverage begins at noon Eastern on select ESPN radio stations. Now, every week there's a lot of stinkers in the NFL and we like to make them to where Myron gives you the reason that you ought to watch them. 30 seconds on why this is a game you would tune in. It is no huddle.

[Matt Jones]

It's time to go around the National Football League.

[Myron Metcalf]

No huddles.

[Matt Jones]

I'm calling the place on the line. Defense will never know what hit him. This is the no Huddle Brown Richmond 96 double.

[Myron Metcalf]

Now, for those of you that don't listen regularly, Myron is really not good at this. Most of the time he just, he can't feign excitement. But he's been in Utah. He's around. A lot of people have been feigning interest in him. So he's used to seeing it. So now. So now I think he's going to be able to do it. Let's get started. What's the first game?

[Matt Jones]

Rams at Jets.

[Myron Metcalf]

Why do I watch it?

[Matt Jones]

Well, you might be watching the end of Aaron Rodgers. Who knows what happens after this season if he tries to come back for another year. Or maybe this is the end of a weird career. But the real reason he watches is because the Rams are still in the playoff picture and they got a chance to become the first team in NFL history to go to back to back playoff appearances after being three games under.500 at some point in the season. So this come from behind story with the Rams as a possible sleeper is something that you shouldn't miss.

[Myron Metcalf]

That wasn't bad. I actually I give that. You know, I grade papers in my Georgetown class that I teach on sports law. Their grading scale is you can either get an A, an ab, a B, a B, C or a C. You don't get any minuses. I give you a solid a B. I don't know. I hate it because there's a difference in my opinion mine between an A minus and a B plus, don't you think?

[Matt Jones]

Not on my transcript. I mean, you didn't see either one.

[Myron Metcalf]

Of those at any point, so it didn't matter. All right, what's the next one?

[Matt Jones]

Cardinals at Panthers.

[Myron Metcalf]

Why do I watch this one?

[Matt Jones]

Well, I don't know if you're watching for the Panthers at all. They're gonna change up everything this offseason. But I think Kyler Murray is one of the stories we just haven't really talked about. He has this Arizona Cardinals team still in a position to make the playoffs that you got to win today to increase those odds of getting in. But I think Kyler Murray is the real sleeper in this playoff hunt. If the Cardinals make it to the playoffs, that's going to be a team that I think you don't want to see because of how well he can play when everybody around him is doing their jobs.

[Myron Metcalf]

Yeah, that's a BC answer because you definitely want to watch Bryce Young. He's been great the last few weeks. Don't you want to see if this dude is an NFL quarterback?

[Matt Jones]

He's not, though.

[Myron Metcalf]

I know what Kyler Murray is. Bryce Young has been surprising.

[Matt Jones]

He's not going to be their quarterback next year. Anthony Richardson won't be the Colts quarterback. Like, none of this is real hot takes.

[Myron Metcalf]

Still giving you a bc. What's next?

[Matt Jones]

Okay, Browns at Bengals. Well, you're gonna watch this game because, yeah, mathematically the Bengals still have a chance. But Joe Burrow is one of the best quarterbacks we've ever seen for a losing team. And there is still a weird scenario where somehow they get into the playoffs. So if you want to read all those factors, you can do that on your own time. But also the Browns Bengals always play good games. This is a real heated rivalry. Dorian Thompson, Robinson coming in for the Browns after they benched Jameis Winston, maybe even setting up a Kirk Cousins move this off season. But that's why you're going to watch this game.

[Myron Metcalf]

Keep using the playoff argument on everyone. Yeah, I think that's another bc, I think.

[Matt Jones]

Oh, is it. Is it. Is it your pitch or is it mine? Is that. I didn't know which one.

[Myron Metcalf]

Well, I mean, but I'm required by the rules to give you.

[Matt Jones]

Okay, now Mike said not to use that pitch.

[Myron Metcalf]

Okay, I'm going to give you a bc. So we have one ab, two bcs, which means your grade is still in flux as we go to the next.

[Matt Jones]

It's like real school. This is how I really felt in school. Like Titans at Colts.

[Myron Metcalf]

It's a big one. What do you got?

[Matt Jones]

Well, you don't have Will Levis your guy because he's not playing anymore. This is a Tennessee team that actually, for whatever reason, winning increases their odds of having a top five pick. So you're watching the Tennessee Titans because this is going to be a team that maybe goes after Shadora Sanders, maybe goes after maybe using that pick to try to trade and get a better quarterback. But that's why you're watching the Titans. They're going to be interesting a team in the winning.

[Myron Metcalf]

I don't understand.

[Matt Jones]

I don't know. I don't understand it either. I'm just telling you what I've read.

[Myron Metcalf]

What do you mean you don't know.

[Matt Jones]

That the Titans, if they have a 39% chance as a to get a top five pick and those chances improve with a win, per ESPN Analytics. I don't understand.

[Myron Metcalf]

There's no way that's true.

[Matt Jones]

I'm reading it.

[Myron Metcalf]

There's no way their chances of getting a top pick improve if they read it.

[Matt Jones]

The Titans still have something on the line. It's on ESPN.com as their current 39% chance at a top five pick will improve with a win, per ESPN analyst.

[Myron Metcalf]

How would it improve if they get a win?

[Matt Jones]

I'm not telling you. I understand it, but I mean, do.

[Myron Metcalf]

You not verify your sources?

[Matt Jones]

The source is espn.

[Myron Metcalf]

It is.

[Matt Jones]

Literally.

[Myron Metcalf]

But how could it be possible that they're. They would get a better chance of a top five pick if they win? Like, then they're going to go. There's no way.

[Matt Jones]

All I'm telling you, it says they have something on the line. They have a 39% chance of getting a top five pick right now and those chances will improve with a win. I'll check this out.

[Myron Metcalf]

That cannot be correct.

[Matt Jones]

I don't think I can read you.

[Myron Metcalf]

I believe you that that's what that says. I do not believe that that's true. Let's do one more.

[Matt Jones]

Jaguars at Raiders.

[Myron Metcalf]

There's no way that's right, but go ahead.

[Matt Jones]

I'm telling you what I read. Listen, man, this is going to be. This is a disaster. Two teams where nothing is going right so far. Obviously, the Jacksonville Jaguars have probably been the bigger disappointment, but there's a guy named Brock Bowers who, no matter what you think about the Raiders, we're talking about a generational talent, maybe the next great tight end in NFL history. That's how good he is. So if you don't care anything about this game, Brock Bowers might reinvent the tight end position based on how he's played thus far. That's why you're watching this game.

[Myron Metcalf]

Do you remember the first time Brock Bowers name was mentioned on this show? Do you remember this?

[Matt Jones]

Now give me a grade though.

[Myron Metcalf]

First I'm going to go solid B there. I think that was a good Brock Bowers because it was a good. It's a good point. I was at the Kentucky Georgia football game. It brought Bowers freshman year and that starting tight end got hurt and they brought him in and I remember on this show the next day and said, I just saw maybe the greatest football player that has ever existed.

[Matt Jones]

Yes.

[Myron Metcalf]

And now. And that was Brock Bowers as a true freshman. And it has come to be. I'm going to give you a solid B. It would have been a B plus but you made up a stat from ESPN Analytics. Cannot be true and so I cannot allow you to get a B plus. It is not true. Coming up, the hottest team in the NFL.

[Matt Jones]

Hey, it's your resident super bowl champ.

[Myron Metcalf]

Chris Cany from Unsportsmanlike.

[Matt Jones]

And I just want to wish everyone a happy and healthy holiday season and happy New Year. And reminder, tune in to Unsportsmanlike every.

[Myron Metcalf]

Weekday morning starting at 6 right here.

[Matt Jones]

On ESPN Radio, ESPN2 and ESPNU. 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 ESPN app, and on Sirius XM channel 80. Matt and Myron the podcast 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.