Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron: Episode Summary – "Lose the Training Wheels"

Release Date: August 10, 2025
Hosts: Matt Jones and Myron Medcalf
Guest: Kevin Seifert, ESPN Vikings Reporter

Introduction to the Episode

In this episode of Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron, the hosts delve into critical topics surrounding the NFL preseason, quarterback performances, team strategies, and notable events in the sports world. Skipping the advertisements and non-content segments, the discussion is rich with insights and expert opinions, particularly focusing on the Minnesota Vikings' quarterback situation and broader NFL quarterback stability as the regular season approaches.

1. Minnesota Vikings and J.J. McCarthy’s Preseason Debut

Guest Introduction:
The episode kicks off with Gabe Neitzel introducing Kevin Seifert, ESPN's Vikings reporter, to discuss J.J. McCarthy's much-anticipated preseason debut.

Key Points:

• McCarthy’s Performance:
  Kevin Seifert notes that J.J. McCarthy had limited but telling action on the field, completing 13 plays with moments of promise mixed with inaccuracy. For instance, McCarthy threw an impressive 18-yard pass to Jordan Addison (01:21).

  Kevin Seifert (01:21): "...he had a nice third down or nice 18-yard pass to Jordan Addison across the middle."

• Coaching Strategy:
  The decision not to let McCarthy play more extensively was attributed to coach Kevin O'Connell's emphasis on responsibility and protecting the young quarterback, especially given the current state of the offensive line.

  Kevin Seifert (02:29): "They just were not prepared to play especially the offensive line that much."

• Future Practices:
  Seifert anticipates that McCarthy will continue to receive development time during joint practices with the Patriots, highlighting the structured approach to his growth.

  Kevin Seifert (03:15): "They believe he'll get a lot of good work in those two days as well."

2. Evaluating the Vikings' Quarterback Situation

Confidence in McCarthy:
Matt Jones inquires about Kevin O'Connell's confidence in McCarthy, to which Seifert responds that while O'Connell believes in McCarthy's long-term potential, immediate performance consistency is still under evaluation.

Kevin Seifert (04:43): "He's pretty convinced in the long term that JJ is going to be a performer that can play winning football on his offense."

Balancing Patience with Performance:
The discussion shifts to how the Vikings must balance their successful roster with the need to develop a young quarterback. Emphasis is placed on a strengthened running game as a strategic move to support McCarthy's development.

Kevin Seifert (06:25): "...they have made a huge commitment to not only pass protect but better than they did last year, but really to run the ball more."

3. Broader NFL Quarterback Stability Concerns

Unstable Quarterback Situations:
Towards the latter part of the episode, Matt and Myron expand the discussion to the NFL at large, identifying several teams with precarious quarterback positions heading into the season.

• Jacksonville Jaguars – Trevor Lawrence:
  Trevor Lawrence’s performance remains under scrutiny as he adapts to Liam Coen’s coaching. Concerns about Coen’s commitment to developing Lawrence as the franchise quarterback are highlighted.

  Matt Jones (25:34): "I almost feel like to me, Trevor Lawrence is auditioning to be Liam Cohen's franchise quarterback."

• Chicago Bears – Caleb Williams:
  The Bears' handling of Caleb Williams is criticized for not giving him sufficient preseason playtime to adapt to the new offensive system under coach Ben Johnson.

  Matt Jones (28:39): "Today would have been a great opportunity to do that because I think the Bears are going into this season..."

• Carolina Panthers – Bryce Young:
  Bryce Young’s performance last season and potential for a turnaround are discussed, questioning the Panthers’ plans depending on his development.

  Matt Jones (34:21): "...Bryce Young was the unanimous number one pick... He has something to prove to himself."

4. Notable Events and Controversies

NFL's Stance on Smelling Salts:
James Steele introduces a controversial NFL memo regarding the administration of smelling salts to players. The clarification that players can bring their own, but teams cannot supply them, sparks debate.

Matt Jones (13:13): "Isn't it worse if you're gonna let players bring their own smelling salts?... feels problematic."

Mariano Rivera’s Injury During Old Timers Day:
A nostalgic yet shocking moment unfolds as Hall of Fame closer Mariano Rivera tears his Achilles tendon while participating in an Old Timers Day game, raising concerns about the safety and appropriateness of such events.

Matt Jones (15:59): "If Mariano Rivera crumpling with a torn Achilles doesn't end this thing, like, what are we doing?"

Jen Powell Makes MLB History:
Jen Powell becomes the first woman to umpire a Major League Baseball regular-season game, a milestone celebrated by the hosts despite anticipated social media backlash.

Matt Jones (17:31): "I celebrate it, man. It's a great thing."

John Cena’s Heel Turn and Return:
The hosts discuss John Cena’s recent role reversal in WWE, analyzing fan reactions and the implications for his legacy.

Matt Jones (20:23): "There's a lot of damage done and I think John Cena has a lot to prove in this sort of farewell tour for me personally."

5. Matthew Stafford’s Injury and Rams’ Prospects

Stafford’s Back Injury:
Matthew Stafford’s aggravated disc and the Rams’ mixed messaging regarding his recovery are scrutinized. The uncertainty surrounding his availability for the season opener raises concerns about the Rams’ offensive stability.

Matt Jones (38:45): "When you talk about it being a back injury, that's certainly problematic."

Sean McVay’s Public Statements:
Rams coach Sean McVay’s positive reports on Stafford’s progress contrast with the visible absence of the quarterback from practice, leading to skepticism about the Rams’ transparency.

Kevin Seifert (39:53): "He threw the ball really well... looking forward to progressing him back into practice on Monday."

6. Dallas Cowboys’ Backup Quarterback Situation

Joe Milton’s Injury:
The episode touches on the Dallas Cowboys' backup quarterback Joe Milton sustaining an elbow injury during the preseason, emphasizing the importance of having reliable backups given Dak Prescott's injury history.

Matt Jones (42:33): "Cooper Rush was a great insurance policy... Joe Milton has to be healthy."

CD Lamb’s Sideline Penalty:
A humorous yet concerning incident involving CD Lamb receiving a penalty for being too close to the field while assisting is discussed, highlighting officiating nuances.

Matt Jones (44:19): "I mean, he could have gotten hurt. The referee could have gotten hurt."

Conclusion and Upcoming Topics

The episode wraps up with teasers for upcoming segments, including discussions on the most unstable quarterback situations in the NFL, and promotes future content like a 30 for 30 podcast episode titled "Chasing Basketball Heaven."

Notable Quotes

• Kevin Seifert on McCarthy's Inaccuracy:
  “He had a pass over the middle that went high to receiver named Lucky Jackson... a little bit inaccurate.”
  [02:17]

• Matt Jones on Smelling Salts Ban:
  “If you're gonna ban it, you gotta ban it. Also is concerned that people need smelling salts in game that to that point.”
  [13:13]

• Matt Jones on Caleb Williams:
  “If you try to hide him from the world, you can't do that. Either he can play or he can't.”
  [31:12]

Final Thoughts

This episode of Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron provides an in-depth analysis of quarterback dynamics within the NFL, shedding light on pivotal moments that could shape the upcoming season. With expert insights from Kevin Seifert and engaging discussions from the hosts, listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and prospects facing key teams and players.

For those keen on the evolving landscape of football and other sports, this episode offers valuable perspectives and highlights the intricate balance between talent development and team strategy.