Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron: Episode Summary – Hour 2: The Anthony Richardson Dilemma

Release Date: November 3, 2024

In the second hour of "Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron," hosts Matt Jones and Myron Metcalf delve deep into the complexities surrounding Anthony Richardson, alongside a myriad of other pressing NFL topics. This episode offers insightful analysis, spirited debates, and candid opinions, making it a must-listen for dedicated sports enthusiasts.

1. Podcast Milestone and Opening Banter (00:22 – 01:34)

The episode kicks off with celebratory news about the podcast's success. Herm Edwards shares, “Last week the Sunday morning new Sunday Morning with Matt Myron podcast debuted at number four on the sports podcast charts” (00:22). Myron modestly acknowledges the accolade, stating, “I was” (00:45), while Matt humorously muses about his place in radio history.

2. Chicago Bears’ Heartbreaking Loss and Coaching Insights (01:34 – 05:22)

The hosts transition to discussing the Chicago Bears' recent devastating loss. Herm Edwards poses critical questions about coaching morale and strategy post-defeat (01:34). Myron offers a thoughtful breakdown of how a coach should address the team, emphasizing accountability: “You got to address the team this way as I let you down as a head coach” (01:48).

A significant moment arises when Myron explains disciplinary actions against Tyreek Stevenson for taunting the crowd, comparing it to his own childhood reprimand: “I was one of those rambunctious kids… put your nose on the window” (02:12). This analogy underscores his approach to player discipline and maintaining team focus.

3. The Anthony Richardson Dilemma (04:09 – 06:47)

The core focus shifts to Anthony Richardson’s performance and future in the NFL. Matt introduces the dilemma: “There are the people who are saying… there are other people saying he let his team down” (04:09). Myron categorically states, “In any position in the National Football League or football player, as an athlete, you don't get to tap out” (04:29), emphasizing the expectation of resilience in professional sports.

Myron critiques Richardson’s maturity and handling of fatigue, suggesting that tapping out is unacceptable: “You cannot tap out, that ain't part of the deal” (05:22). He proposes strategic adjustments, like incorporating Joe Flacco as a starter while still nurturing Richardson’s potential.

Herm interjects with skepticism about Richardson’s long-term viability, stating, “He's never going to be a player in the NFL, Coach” (06:03). Myron defends giving Richardson more opportunities, highlighting the importance of developing young quarterbacks and the team’s ongoing support.

4. Evaluations of Struggling Teams: Bengals, Dolphins, Cowboys (06:38 – 10:04)

The discussion broadens to analyze teams with disappointing records despite high playoff expectations. Herm names the Bengals, Dolphins, and Cowboys, questioning their ability to rebound: “Can any of them bounce back and make them” (08:34).

Myron dissects each team’s shortcomings, particularly focusing on the Cowboys’ lack of a robust running game: “They got no runner. That's going to kill them” (09:09). He remains pessimistic about their playoff chances, forecasting a bleak finish for all three teams.

5. Patrick Mahomes and the Landscape of Top Quarterbacks (10:04 – 13:10)

Patrick Mahomes’ performance is scrutinized, with Matt questioning his current effectiveness: “Would you have played him again? If your quarterback goes to the podium and says, I tapped out because I was tired” (05:44).

Myron and Herm engage in a lively debate about the top quarterbacks in the league. Herm confidently lists, “Patrick Mahomes, Allen and Lamar” (12:48), while Myron introduces Josh Allen as the preferred choice over Mahomes when faced with critical game situations: “I’m going to take… Josh Allen” (11:23).

6. Caller Interaction and Team-Specific Discussions (14:54 – 19:19)

The segment includes a call from Ryan Reynolds, discussing the Packers and Dak Prescott’s potential impact if moved to another team. Herm and Myron exchange insights on Prescott’s performance and the Packers’ reliance on him.

Myron offers a critical view of the Packers’ future without Prescott, stating, “He’s not going to get to experience that with this team” (31:30). The conversation underscores the challenges teams face when evaluating and potentially replacing key players.

7. Selling NFL Games Segment (35:00 – 43:47)

In a dynamic segment, Matt and Myron attempt to "sell" various NFL games to listeners. This playful endeavor highlights their ability to highlight compelling storylines, even for underwhelming matchups.

• Chargers vs. Browns: Matt humorously pitches Jameis Winston’s quotable moments as a reason to tune in: “He has the greatest quotes, I think, in the NFL” (36:22).

• Panthers vs. Saints: Focusing on the turmoil within both franchises, Matt describes the game as a “train wreck” scenario with both teams struggling (37:40).

• Patriots vs. Titans: Herm takes over to emphasize the uncertainty around Drake May’s development as a quarterback, though the attempt is humorously critiqued for being underwhelming (38:12).

• Rams vs. Seahawks: Finally, Herm effectively sells the high-stakes nature of this NFC West clash, highlighting the implications for playoff standings: “Whoever takes this game has a shot… to win the NFC West” (40:16).

8. Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts (43:47 – End)

As the episode wraps up, Herm and Matt reflect on the day's discussions, reiterating the importance of strategic decisions in coaching and player management. They emphasize the unpredictable nature of the NFL and the constant evaluation required to maintain competitive edge.

Notable Quotes

• Myron Metcalf on Tapping Out: “In any position in the National Football League or football player, as an athlete, you don't get to tap out. That ain't part of the deal” (04:29).

• Myron on Richardson’s Accountability: “I was wrong, I was tired, and I shouldn't have done that. Then it's done. It doesn't become a story” (07:05).

• Herm Edwards on Top Quarterbacks: “Patrick Mahomes, Allen and Lamar” (12:48).

• Myron on Dak Prescott’s Future with Packers: “He’s not going to get to experience that with this team” (31:30).

• Herm on Rams vs. Seahawks Stakes: “Whoever takes this game has a shot… to win the NFC West” (40:16).

Conclusion

In this episode, Matt Jones and Myron Metcalf navigate through a labyrinth of NFL narratives, with the spotlight firmly on Anthony Richardson's future. Their candid analysis, combined with interactive segments and sharp commentary, provides listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the current sports landscape. Whether dissecting quarterback performances or evaluating team strategies, the hosts deliver content that is both informative and engaging, solidifying the podcast's position in the sports media arena.